6 Best Moka Pots: Stovetop Espresso Makers for 2022 Reviewed

The moka pot was invented in 1933 by inventor Alfonso Bialetti. In a short period of time, its popularity spread very quickly across Italy. 

Today, it is used all around the world, especially across Europe and Latin America. You may not be as familiar with this appliance since it’s not too common in American households. However, you’ll understand why moka pots are so popular when you compare them with standard espresso makers. But we’ll get to the benefits a little later.

This buyer’s guide will cover everything you should know to make an informed moka pot shopping decision. With the dozens of styles available in the market, it can be challenging to find the best moka pot for you.

The Best Moka Pots

Product Review Rating Price
Bialetti Express Moka Pot Read Review 4.8 Check Price
De'Longhi EMK6 Moka Pot Read Review 4.8 Check Price
BonVIVO Intenca Moka Pot Read Review 4.8 Check Price
Bialetti Musa Moka Pot Read Review 4.7 Check Price
Grosche Milano Stovetop Moka Pot Read Review 4.7 Check Price
The London Sip Stovetop Moka Pot Read Review 4.6 Check Price

Our goal is that you’ll have a clear understanding of the type of moka coffee pot you need by the end of this guide. Even better – we hope you find one of our top reviewed products the perfect option for your kitchen and start making delicious mugs of coffee in no time.

Our Favourite

1. Bialetti Express Moka Pot

4.8/5.0
Looks / Appearance 5.0 / 5.0
Ease of use 4.0 / 5.0
Functionality 5.0 / 5.0

Pros

  • – High-quality espresso in 5 minutes
  • – Simple cleaning process
  • – Ergonomic handle

Cons

  • – Not dishwasher safe

The Bialetti Espresso Maker is for those who want to enjoy the beauty of authentic Italian espresso without having to pay an arm and a leg for a fancy espresso machine. Or better yet, spending time and money at the local coffee shop.

2. De'Longhi EMK6 Moka Pot

4.8/5.0
Looks / Appearance 5.0 / 5.0
Ease of use 5.0 / 5.0
Functionality 5.0 / 5.0

Pros

  • – Automatic shutoff function 
  • – Removable cord for easy pours 
  • – Made from durable aluminum
  • – Compact and lightweight

Cons

  • – Plastic carafe

The De’Longhi Alicia coffee pot is great for users who are looking for a moka pot that looks like a traditional Bialetti trademark but with added functionality.

3. BonVIVO Intenca Moka Pot

4.8/5.0
Looks / Appearance 5.0 / 5.0
Ease of use 5.0 / 5.0
Functionality 4.0 / 5.0

Pros

  • – Heat resistant handle
  • – Suitable for all stovetops 
  • – Safety valve increases security 
  • – Elegant design

Cons

  • – Operation may be difficult for beginners

The BonVIVO Intenca Moka Pot will make the perfect companion to any espresso lover. If you cannot resist a full-bodied cup of espresso, you want this in your kitchen.

4. Bialetti Musa Moka Pot

4.7/5.0
Looks / Appearance 5.0 / 5.0
Ease of use 4.5 / 5.0
Functionality 4.5 / 5.0

Pros

  • – Multiple Size Options
  • – Travel Espresso Machine 
  • – Stainless Steel

Cons

  • – More expensive than single-use travel coffee makers

This machine is a great merge of high quality while still appealing to the nitty-gritty that is camping trips. Its practical build and design are also appealing to the eye.

5. Grosche Milano Stovetop Moka Pot

4.7/5.0
Looks / Appearance 5.0 / 5.0
Ease of use 4.0 / 5.0
Functionality 5.0 / 5.0

Pros

  • – Durable Design
  • – Large safe-touch handle with burn guard
  • – Available in a variety of colors and styles
  • – Multiple capacities to choose from

Cons

  • – Heats slowly on glass-top induction stoves

Grosche really hit the nail on all levels with this Milano Moka Pot. More than anything else, it offers the convenience coffee-lovers need in the mornings when energy is low.

6. The London Sip Stovetop Moka Pot

4.6/5.0
Looks / Appearance 5.0 / 5.0
Ease of use 4.5 / 5.0
Functionality 4.8 / 5.0

Pros

  • – Easy to clean
  • – Heat safety features 
  • – Affordably priced
  • – 100% money-back guarantee

Cons

  • – Poor quality handle

The London Sip designed an Italian-style Moka pot with a modern British twist. They took the traditional aluminum design of the Moka pot and enhanced it to create a stainless-steel variation.

What is a Moka Coffee Pot?

You may also know these appliances as stovetop espresso makers. Moka pots produce creamy, rich coffee similar to espresso. They offer a simple yet innovative design that uses steam to pressurize boiling water which then passes through coffee grounds. 

As a result, you have a delicious brew that tastes just as good (or even better) than that cup you get at your local café every morning. 

What to Look For in a Stovetop Espresso Maker 

Not all moka pots work in the same way. They each have their unique characteristics that affect their functionality. Keep these factors in mind when shopping for the best moka pot for you:

Aluminum or Stainless Steel? 

Just like any other appliance you own, you need to consider material. Finding the best stovetop espresso maker depends on your preference. Both aluminum and stainless-steel hold advantages and disadvantages.  

  • – Aluminum is inexpensive and very efficient at retaining heat. Aluminum pots are lightweight, making them ideal if you’re looking for a portable option. Keep in mind that they must be hand washed and dried thoroughly to prevent them from rusting. 
  • – Stainless steel, on the other hand, is more expensive than aluminum but also more durable. This material is nonporous and does not rust over time. They are easier to maintain than aluminum and work great aesthetically. Most stainless-steel models are dishwasher safe.
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Ask yourself if you’re looking for something to take with you on camping trips or prefer something a little more permanent within your kitchen. How much are you willing to spend? How often do you plan on using it? All of this will help you decide on the material best for you.

Stovetop Compatibility

Do you own a gas, electric, or induction stovetop? This is important to know before deciding on a stovetop espresso maker. The type of stovetop you have will determine the type of pot you need. The last thing you want is to invest in a pot and realize it doesn’t work with your stovetop. 

Manual or Electric? 

The original moka pots were manual. They were designed to be used on a stovetop. While these still exist and continue to be popular, there are also electric versions. Instead of using heat, they need to be plugged into a wall outlet. If you’re looking for something more modern, you should go with an electric model. The downside, however, is they are more expensive.

Safety

Safety is essential regardless of the appliance you’re shopping for. Several moka coffee pots like those we’ve outlined here are equipped with safety features that’ll prevent users from burning themselves. A few things to look out for include: 

  • – Rubber-coated handles. These may not look as great, but they are very cool to the touch when pouring hot cups of joe!
  • – Cool-touch metal handles. This feature is available on some models. They maintain the traditional appearance of the moka pot all while making it safer for users. 
  • – Safety valves. These are great to prevent any excess pressure buildup. 
  • – Automatic shutoff. The last thing you want is accidentally leaving your machine on. Most electric models have an automatic shutoff feature, so you will never be left wondering if you left your device on.
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Capacity 

How often do you drink coffee? Will you be the only one using it, or are there others in your household that also enjoy a cup? Moka pots come in a wide array of sizes with capacities between 1 to 18 servings. Trust us – there is a moka pot out there that will offer the capacity you require.

What are the Benefits of Using a Stovetop Espresso Maker?

The benefits of a moka pot go beyond making rich, strong coffee. They do an amazing job retaining heat, are easy to clean and use, and are wallet-friendly. Some models are also portable, meaning you can take them with you to the office, camping trips, and just about anywhere!

Tips for Using Moka Pots & Stovetop Espresso Makers

Moka pots are amazingly easy to use and offer a simple design. Their functionality is similar to coffee percolators, with some key differences. For starters, they are designed with three major parts:  

  • – A bottom chamber that boils water
  • – A funnel-shaped filter that holds ground coffee
  • – An upper chamber that collects the finished coffee

To use, simply fill the bottom chamber with water, add finely ground coffee to the filter, and turn on the heat source. Your brew will be ready to serve when the moka pot begins to make a gurgling sound. Of course, always follow manufacturers’ user instructions.

A few other tips to keep in mind include:  

  • – Always use finely ground coffee
  • – Don’t compress the coffee grounds or tamp them down
  • – Remove the pot from the heat when it begins to gurgle
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Final Thoughts 

Does a moka pot sound like a coffee appliance you need in your kitchen? If so, be sure to check out our top picks of 2021! We’ve done the busy work for you and reviewed each in detail to bring you the facts.