7 Things You Didn't Know About Filter Coffee Machine
Best Filter Coffee Machine
A drip filter machine is an excellent option if you're looking for an espresso maker that can make filter coffee without fuss. They're easy to use, affordable and make a good cup of coffee.
The machine is sleek and visually appealing and features a wide showerhead that agitates the ground well. However, the water tank is not marked and feels cheap to handle.
1. Easy to clean
Cleaning ease isn't typically an element in our ratings but we did take this into consideration, because coffee makers are frequently used and can be a challenge to thoroughly clean. We looked at the number of nooks, crannies, and parts on each machine. We also assessed how it was easy to remove and clean the machine. The fact that there are fewer pieces means less work, but each machine also has to be maintained regularly to prevent a buildup of burned-on oils and an unpleasant smell or taste.
The majority of filter machines utilize glass carafes as well as permanent gold-tone filters to cut down on the waste of plastic and other waste, but some have additional features such as the ability to display digital information or a timer function. Some have a warming tray to keep your coffee warm for long hours after you've brewed. The Zojirushi, for example, comes with a filter that can be reused to reduce paper waste and convenient markings that make it easier to know when you're adding the correct amount of water.
Some machines let you choose between pods or ground coffee. Pods are more efficient and can speed up the process of brewing however they can also be costly over time. Ground coffee is an affordable alternative and allows for more personalization with various blends and strengths.
The machine is front-loaded. It's a nice addition. It also has a large display that is easier to read compared to smaller numbers on other models. However the water tank is adorned with prominent ridges that aren't comfortable to hold and take away from the overall appearance. The reservoir does not contain any cup or ounce markings, so you will need to measure your water with care.
2. Easy to maintain
It's a simple pleasure to sip a cup of steaming filter coffee, but it takes some effort to make it at home. In this instance, it's not only preparing the beans, but also regularly cleaning the machine and replacing filters as needed. Drip filter machines use a slow extraction method that involves pouring water on the grounds for three-to-four minutes to create a more mellow taste than espresso. As a result, they need less maintenance than espresso or single-serve machines.
It is essential to clean them frequently and to replace parts like the water tank or carafe. This can be difficult as some models require special tools or are difficult to reach. It is a good idea to search for filters that have an able water reservoir that can be removed to make filling and cleaning easy. Many models come with a washable, permanent filter or a basket to store disposable paper filters. Some models have only one button to begin the brewing process, while others use a complex menu system which can be confusing to new users.
The Moccamaster KBG Select is a stand-out machine that ticks all the boxes for ease of use. The sleek design blends industrial style with thoughtful features like copper heating elements to make coffee at the perfect temperature (92-96C) to get the best flavor of your beans. It comes in a variety of vibrant colours and will fit perfectly on the kitchen counter however it takes up quite a bit of space.
Russell Hobbs CM8 is another user-friendly choice. It is compact in size that can produce up to 15 cups and uses hot plates to keep the coffee warm for an hour. We did find the instruction manual to be a bit confusing with some symbols being difficult to comprehend, but the controls are simple enough to learn after a few tests.
3. Easy to clean
In contrast to espresso machines that make more dense coffee in fewer than 30 seconds filters depend on a longer, slow extraction process. The resultant drink is lighter and less bitter. But all that time spent in contact with hot water could result in the formation of a residue, and you should clean your equipment frequently to avoid a burning smell or taste.
This machine is designed to be user-friendly. The colors are vibrant and eye-catching, so it's the first thing you notice when you wake up, and could even inspire your morning cup of coffee. The permanent gold-toned filter can save you money and the markings for half-carafes, single cups, and full carafes on the filter will eliminate the guesswork of measuring the water and grounds.
However, we were put off by the plastic tank that's hidden in the back. The ridges on the opening make it difficult to pour and can also splash water onto the grounds of coffee or into the brewing chamber which makes it easy to forget a full cup when refilling.
Luckily, the tank is removed and is dishwasher-safe and dishwasher safe, making it one of the easier models to clean. Apart from that, this machine is minimalist in design and is easy to install and use. This is a great option for those in need of an affordable and reliable filter coffee maker. drip coffee machines can brew up to four cups and a carafe full of coffee. It utilizes paper filters. The price is a little expensive, but it's worth considering if you want an affordable, reliable filter coffee maker with a lot of features.
4. Brews easily and is easy to make
The best filter coffee machines make delicious coffee and are easy to use. The control panel is easy to use and the display is clear, so you can see the amount of coffee and water to add and when you should descale. They are also compatible with both ground coffee and pre-ground coffee, which allows you greater flexibility in the flavor and blends. They are usually cheaper than pod-based machines over time, too.
You can program certain filter coffee machines to brew your morning cup of coffee prior to waking up. Some models come with built-in grinders so that you can grind your own beans and adjust the grind's coarseness. The majority of them can also make a large pot of coffee for the whole family or a crowd.
The Smeg Drip Coffee Maker is one model that is a joy to use. It's a retro-styled machine that makes reliable filter coffee. The reusable filter makes it easy to clean. The glass carafe looks like a vintage diner coffeepot. It also comes with a 60-minute warmer that can keep your coffee hot up to an hour. The controls are straightforward to learn however it requires some practice. The toggle that sets the time on the side is clunky and the indicators that glow are difficult to read in the early morning light.
You can make a pot of filter coffee in less than eight minutes with the Oxo. Its brewing system is automatic and has a bloom cycle that showers down the grounds after a brief pause that allows them to soak up the water, and then a brew cycle where the hot water passes over the grounds for about five minutes on average. The resulting coffee is robust and smooth with a hint of sweetness. It does not have an alarm clock and you cannot program the brew strength. However, it is easy to use and has a stylish look that will look great in your kitchen.
5. Easy to clean
Contrary to espresso machines (ideal for cappuccinos and milky lattes) which brew denser coffee in just 30 seconds Filter coffee makers employ a longer extraction process to create a fruitier and more mellow mouthfeel. Searches for these kinds of appliances at John Lewis are up 295 percent in the past year, suggesting that they're an increasingly popular alternative to bean-to-cup or pod systems.
They typically include a water reservoir, glass carafe and filter basket - with some also including an oven or thermal jug to keep your coffee warm after brewing. They're generally less complex than pod or bean-to cup machines and can be operated by anyone with an knowledge of operating one.
Some filter coffee machines have their own filter that can be reused, which helps to reduce the cost of paper, while some allow you to use your own pre-ground or instant coffee. You can choose between manual or automated operation, and you can select from a variety of settings, including temperature, brew intensities and batch sizes ranging from a single cup up to a pot.

While many of our choices have sleek designs and a minimalist aesthetic, you can also find filter coffee makers with more retro or colourful designs if you prefer that preference. This Smeg model, for instance, features a fun shape and comes in a range of bright colors. The only drawback is that its bigger footprint could require more counter space than other models.
The most affordable models are usually made of plastic, whereas the more expensive models tend to be stainless steel or feature a ceramic finish. These have a tendency to feel more premium and is more durable than plastic. Go through the manuals of the manufacturer to find care instructions, and note whether the components are dishwasher safe or require hand-washing. There should also be a description of how it is simple to disassemble and put back together the machine.