12 Best Moka Pots For Fans Of Espresso-Like Brew

If you’re a fan of rich and flavorful cups of coffee with a full mouthfeel, invest now in a Moka pot. I made a list of some of the best Moka pots on the market.

Since Alfonso Bialetti brought the first Moka pots to the market in the 1930s, these ever-popular stovetop coffee makers have provided coffee lovers worldwide with rich, espresso-like coffee. The allure of Moka pots is easy to understand; apart from giving full-bodied and flavorful cups of coffee, these coffee makers are affordable and portable.

Since they require no coffee filters or pods, they are also eco-friendly. Plus, making coffee in a Moka pot is a bit of a ritual. I much prefer taking a bit of time to brew a cup of coffee in my Moka pot to pressing a button on a Keurig or Nespresso machine.

Since the 1930s, many new and exciting versions of the Moka pot have become available. Although the original Moka Express from Bialetti remains popular, you also choose many other types of Moka pots.

Knowing what options you have and what to look out for when shopping for a Moka pot will help you choose the perfect one for your needs. I’ve compiled a list of the best Moka pots I’ve come across to get you started.

What To Look For In A Moka Pot

Moka pots come in various shapes, sizes, and materials. You can also choose between stovetop and electric models. In addition, some Moka pots are more affordable than others.

Before you go shopping for a Moka pot, you may want to consider the following:

• Do you want to go camping with your Moka pot? If so, you will need a manual Moka pot.
• Do you prefer durability or a quicker brewing process? Moka pots are available in stainless steel or aluminum. The former is more durable, while the latter is a better heat conductor.
• What is your budget? Moka pots vary greatly when it comes to price. Deciding on your budget before shopping will save you time and effort.
• How many cups of coffee do you want to brew at a time? Moka pots come in different sizes, ranging from one cup to 12 cups.

You might be interested in our ultimate Moka pot brewing guide.

How To Pick The Best Moka Pot

It’s easy to choose the right Moka pot if you know what you want. Knowing precisely your options for Moka pots will make it much easier to choose the right one when you go shopping. Here is a short breakdown of some of the factors to consider when shopping for a Moka pot:

Size

Moka pots differ in size and range from one-cup to 18-cup coffee makers. It’s important to note that a Moka “cup” is much smaller than a regular cup of coffee.

This is because Moka pots provide espresso-style brews, which are richer and more full-bodied than you’ll get from drip-coffee machines or pour-overs. While a regular cup of coffee equals about eight fluid ounces, a Moka cup provides two fluid ounces. The standard cup chart for the Moka pot is as follows:

• 1 cup = 2 fluid ounces
• 3 cups = 6.5 fluid ounces
• 6 cups = 10 fluid ounces
• 9 cups = 18.5 fluid ounces
• 12 cups – 25 fluid ounces

Choosing the right size Moka pot will depend on how many people you would typically prepare coffee for at any given time and how big the cups of coffee you drink are.

If you like big cups of strong coffee, you may need a three-cup or a six-cup Moka pot just for yourself. However, those who prefer a weaker cup can always add hot water to their Moka brews, which means they’ll do OK with a smaller pot.

Material

Originally, Moka pots were made from aluminum, and you still get aluminum options today. However, over the years, stainless-steep Moka pots have also become available. Both materials have pros and cons.

Aluminum

Aluminum is affordable and relatively durable, but it can also rust. It is also an excellent conductor of heat, so you don’t have to wait long for your morning cup of coffee.

However, aluminum is porous, resulting in tiny coffee particles and oils getting stuck in the metal over time, which can impact the flavor of your brews. 

Stainless Steel

Stainless steel is non-porous and will leave no off-flavors in your brews. The metal is also non-corrosive and highly resistant to rust. As such, stainless-steel Moka pots are more durable than their aluminum counterparts.

In addition, stainless-steel Moka pots can be used on induction stoves.

Stovetop Or Electric

Another consideration is whether you want to go manual or electric. Electric Moka pots are a bit easier to use than traditional Moka pots. You can easily regulate the water temperature, and many brewers also have timers.

However, manual Moka pots are far more portable. They are also much more affordable.

The Best Moka Pots For Fans Of Espresso-Like Brews

Now that you know what to look out for, it’s time to take a look at a few of the best Moka pots on the market:

1. Bialetti Moka Express

Bialetti has manufactured over 200 million coffee makers since 1950. The Moka Express is super affordable, stylish, and practical. Despite alluring new additions to the Moka-pot lineup, the first-ever Moka pot still has much to offer.

The fact that Bialetti has manufactured over 200 million coffee makers since the 1950s says it all.

The coffee maker comes in various sizes, ranging from a one-cup to an 18-cup size. One of the main perks of this coffee maker is that it makes a rich espresso-style brew in just a few minutes. The Moka Express features Bialetti’s distinctive eight-sided shape, enabling effective heat diffusion.

You might also be interested in our Doppio coffee guide if you love Moka pot coffee.

2. Bodum Chambord Espresso Maker

The charming Bodum Chambord Espresso Maker is made in the style of traditional Italian stovetop Moka pots. Like the Moka Express, this stovetop coffee maker produces rich and full-bodied espresso-style brews in minutes.

However, as opposed to the distinctive eight-sided shape of the Moka Express, the Chambord Espresso maker features the iconic Chambord style. With its tall and narrow design and quintessential round knob on the flip lid, the Chambord Espresso Maker is reminiscent of the classic Bodum cafetieres.

You can use this coffee maker on any stovetop, including ceramic, electric, and induction stoves. However, Bodum recommends that you don’t use this coffee maker on gas stoves. The coffee maker is available in both stainless steel and aluminum.

3. Stelton Collar Espresso Brewer

The Stelton Collar Espresso Brewer is a classic Italian stovetop espresso maker. However, the striking Scandinavian design sets it apart from other Moka pots. The brewer is made from stainless steel that has been coated with Teflon.

The large wooden handle, which lends the coffee maker the appearance of an actual pot, draws one’s attention.

Apart from its good looks, this coffee maker also offers delicious espressos-style brews full in body. For your convenience, you receive an extra filter plate that sits on top of the coffee. This coffee brewer is only available in a four-cup size.

4. Alessi La Conica

The simple geometric shape of the Alessi La Conica Moka pot is elegant, timeless, and eye-catching. The La Conica was the first espresso coffee maker that Aldo Rossi created, and it has stood the test of time.

Today, the La Conica remains a popular coffee maker. This is due to the impeccable quality that this coffee maker offers — and, of course, its unique and classy design.

Made from 18/10 stainless steel, the La Conica is extremely durable. However, the bottom of the coffee maker is made from copper, which provides superior heat distribution and absorption.

This means that your brew will keep its aromas and warmth for longer. The coffee maker is available in two sizes: a three-cup and a six-cup size

5. Grosche Milano Stovetop Espresso Maker

The Grosche Milano Stovetop Espresso Maker is an excellent option if you’re on a budget. The coffee maker is made from aluminum and is available in five sizes: one, three, six, nine, and 12 cups.

The design of this Moka pot is very similar to that of the Moka Express since it also features an eight-sided bottom half.

You can use the coffee maker on most types of stoves, including camping, gas, electric, and propane stoves. For your safety, the Milano comes with a non-toxic silicon gasket seal that prevents leaks and maintains boiler pressure.

The coffee maker also features a “Made in Italy” certified safety valve to prevent internal pressure from reaching dangerous levels.

6. Cuisinox Roma Stovetop Moka Espresso Maker

If you like elegance and refinement, and a higher price tag doesn’t bother you, take a closer look at the Cuisinox Roma Stovetop Moka Espresso Maker.

This premium coffee maker is handcrafted from 18/10 stainless steel and features a mirror polish finish. Although the design is simple, it’s timeless and classy.

When it comes to performance, Roma is equally impressive. The induction base of this coffee maker makes it suitable for use on any cooking surface.

The Roma is available in a four-cup, six-cup, or 10-cup size. If you’re worried about the high price of this product, the fact that it comes with a 25-year warranty should put your mind at ease.

7. Bialetti Venus Moka Pot

Created by the famous designer Guido Bergna, the Bialetti Venus Moka pot features a beautiful and stylish design with soft-flowings. However, this coffee maker isn’t only appealing on the looks front. It is also super functional, which is what makes a Bialetti Moka pot a top pick for coffee connoisseurs.

The Venus is made from 18/10 stainless steel and comes with an anti-drip spout that will allow you to pour without making a mess. After a recent design upgrade, the coffee maker now also features a boiler wall that’s 20% thicker, which increases its robustness.

The new design also includes an ergonomic handle that provides optimal grip. The coffee maker is available in two-cup, four-cup, six-cup, and 10-cup sizes.

8. Primula Stovetop Espresso And Coffee Maker

If you want quality espresso at home without the hefty cost of an espresso machine, Primula may be for you. The Primula Moka pot has a classic appearance and comes in five sizes; one cup, three cups, six cups, nine cups, and 12 cups. It’s compatible with all stovetops, whether you have an induction cooktop or electric stoves, so you shouldn’t have to worry about being unable to use it in your kitchen.

It’s made from quality stainless steel and is easy to clean and use. You can brew quality espresso, Cuban coffee, and more from the comfort of your home. The espresso can be used as a base for a latte, cappuccino, mocha, and more milky drinks.

Learn more in our round-up of the best brands for Cuban coffee.

9. Zulay Classic Stovetop Espresso Maker

If you have a particular sense of style, you’ll love the Zulay Classic Stovetop Espresso Maker. Aside from the classic black or silver designs, you can opt for blue, pink, or red and quirky designs. More importantly, this still makes a quality cup of Joe.

If you need a strong pick-me-up in the morning, the pressure valve in this Moka pot makes for a higher extraction of caffeine. You can even brew espresso with a crema layer like you would get in a coffee shop, with the right beans and grind.

10. LUXHAUS Stovetop Espresso Maker

The LUXHAUS Stovetop Espresso Maker has a sleek, elegant design that will compliment any modern kitchen. Once you get into the swing of things, this Moka pot brews beautiful espresso, ideal for Italian and Cuban coffee, but it takes practice, as is the norm with this brewing method. Some lower-quality Moka pots infuse metallic or plastic-like flavors into the espresso, but that’s not the case with this one.

It’s very easy to clean. As there is a spring under the coffee filter basket, it is easier to retrieve the coffee grounds during the clean-up process. It’s also sturdier than some competitors as the handle is screwed on, whereas other brands use glue.

11. Yabano Stovetop Espresso Maker

The Yabano Stovetop Espresso Maker is extremely affordable, so you might think it’s too good to be true. However, it still manages to brew a good espresso shot in a short amount of time. To brew the best coffee, you should go for dark, quality ground coffee beans, which should be coarsely ground.

You can choose from different colors as well as one-cup, three-cups, six-cups, and nine-cups. The classic black with gold detailing appears to be the most popular choice.

The spout is cleverly designed to prevent spills when serving your coffee. Due to the small size, it’s easy for other parts of the Moka pot, such as the handle, to get hot during the brewing process, so always use it with care.

12. Geesta Premium Crystal Glass-Top Stovetop Espresso Moka Pot

If you fancy something different, you’ll love the Geesta premium crystal glass Moka pot. Like a French press, this Moka pot has a glass compartment so you can watch the brewing process for yourself. The stunning, unique design will be sure to impress your house guests.

The base is made from food-grade aluminum.

This Moka pot only ones in one size; the nine-cup option. So, it’s ideal if you want to brew multiple servings of coffee at once.

Due to the glass top chamber, it brews a fresh, clean cup without any odd flavors or scents contaminating your java. As the glass is fragile, this is best for experienced brewers with steady hands. While other Moka pots contain plastic handles or lids, which can melt over high heat, fortunately, the glass lid and handle will not melt and are heat-resistant to prevent burns.

Testing Criteria

I used various criteria for selecting the Moka pots listed in this article. Firstly, I wanted to provide my readers with a selection that includes diverse Moka pots.

This means that I included Moka pots that range in price from affordable to pricey. I also opted to include Moka pots with unique and interesting designs since having a beautiful Moka pot to look at while you brew coffee makes the experience so much more fun.

However, I also listed a few more ordinary-looking options for investing in a more functional coffee maker. The price range also varies, so there should be something for every budget.

As you’ve probably noted, all the Moka pots I listed are manual stovetop Moka pots. This is because Moka pots are traditional stovetop coffee makers. Some of the brands I mentioned do provide electric Moka pots.

Why You Can Trust Me

I love coffee with a full mouthfeel and robust flavor. Since this is the type of brew you get from a Moka pot, I have been investing in and experimenting with different Moka pots over the years. Even though I am not a barista, I view myself as a bit of a coffee expert.

I don’t only love drinking coffee — I aim to make the perfect brew.

The Best Moka Pot: The Final Word

Deciding on the right Moka pot for you will depend on various factors. Apart from your budget, it would help if you considered whether you would want to travel with your pot and whether you would want to use it outdoors. Other factors include the type of stovetop you have at home and how many cups of coffee you’d like to brew at any given time.