For coffee lovers who appreciate the strong, robust flavor of a traditional cup of joe, percolator coffee makers are a great option. Unlike drip coffee makers that simply drip hot water over coffee grounds, percolators work by utilizing pressure to propel hot water through a tube and gradually saturating the coffee grounds, resulting in a stronger and more flavorful cup of coffee.
In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the best percolator coffee makers available on the market today. We’ll highlight the best options for value, small capacity, and camping.
Why Does Percolated Coffee Taste Better?
The taste of coffee made in a percolator is unparalleled, as it boasts a smooth and creamy flavor. This is because the water temperature is hotter than in a drip coffee maker, allowing for a more complete extraction of the beans’ flavor.
For some, it’s the nostalgic aspect of using a classic and traditional brewing method that harkens back to a simpler time. Others may enjoy the unique taste and texture of percolator-brewed coffee, which tends to be richer, fuller-bodied, and more robust than coffee made by other types of coffee makers.
For me, it’s the process of making coffee in a percolator. I see it as a ritualistic and hands-on experience, allowing me to control the brewing process and adjust variables such as water temperature and brewing time to suit my taste preferences.
Additionally, percolators are often sturdy and durable, making them ideal for outdoor use or for households where coffee makers may be subjected to frequent use or wear and tear.
Best Percolator for the Value
When it comes to finding the best percolator coffee maker for value, it’s important to find a product that balances price and quality. Our top pick in this category is the Farberware Classic Stainless Steel Yosemite 8-Cup Coffee Percolator.
This percolator is made from durable stainless steel and has a sleek, classic design. It’s also dishwasher safe, making it easy to clean. The 8-cup capacity is perfect for smaller households with avid coffee drinkers but strikes a balance when guests come for a visit.
One of the best things about the Farberware Classic Stainless Steel Yosemite percolator is its affordable price point. It offers great value for its quality and durability, making it a great choice for coffee lovers on a budget.
Best Small Electric Coffee Percolator
If you’re looking for an electric percolator coffee maker with a smaller capacity, the Presto 6-Cup Stainless Steel Coffee Maker is an excellent choice. This compact electric percolator can brew up 2 to 6 cups in minutes, making it perfect for smaller households or for individuals who prefer to brew smaller batches of coffee.
The Presto 6-Cup Stainless Steel Coffee Maker is made from high-quality stainless steel and features a detachable power cord for easy serving and storage. It also has a signal light that indicates when the coffee is ready to serve.
Overall, the Presto 6-Cup Stainless Steel Coffee Maker is a great choice for those who want a high-quality electric percolator with a smaller capacity.
Best Percolator for Camping
For coffee lovers who enjoy camping and outdoor adventures, the GSI Outdoors Glacier Stainless Steel Percolator is the perfect option. This percolator is made from high-quality stainless steel and features a rugged design that is perfect for outdoor use.
The GSI Outdoors Glacier Stainless Steel Percolator is available in a range of sizes, from 3 cups to 12 cups, making it easy to find the perfect size for your camping group. It also features a heat-resistant silicone handle that is easy to grip and a pour spout that makes serving easy.
Overall, the GSI Outdoors Glacier Stainless Steel Percolator is an excellent choice for anyone who wants a high-quality percolator that is built to withstand the rigors of outdoor use.
Best Stovetop Coffee Percolator
Choose The Right Percolator
| Name | Capacity | Best For | Description & Features |
| Farberware Classic Stainless Steel Yosemite Percolator | 8 cups | Value | Classic design, durable stainless steel construction, clear plastic knob to monitor percolation process |
| Presto 6-Cup Stainless Steel Coffee Maker | 2-6 cups | Electric | Brews quickly, easy to use and clean, compact size, automatic keep-warm function |
| GSI Outdoors Glacier Stainless Steel Percolator | 8 cups | Camping | Ideal for outdoor use, rustproof and durable stainless steel construction, heat-resistant silicone handle, percolator stem and basket designed for optimal coffee extraction |
| Bialetti Moka Express | 3-12 cups | StoveTop | Classic design, simple operation, and ability to xd rich and flavorful coffee |
Is A Moka Pot a Percolator?
We love Moka Pots around here and highly recommend them, but a Moka pot is not a percolator.
A Moka Pot and a percolator may seem similar, but they are very different. While both brewing methods involve circulating hot water through coffee grounds to brew coffee, the specific mechanisms differ.
A Moka Pot, also known as a stovetop espresso maker, uses steam pressure to force hot water through finely-ground coffee beans. The water is heated in a bottom chamber and rises through a funnel to mix with the coffee grounds before passing through a filter and into an upper chamber.
A percolator, on the other hand, uses a gravity-based system to circulate hot water through coffee grounds. The water is heated in a bottom chamber, and as it boils, it rises up a tube or pipe and showers over the coffee grounds. The brewed coffee then flows back down through the basket, repeating the process until the desired strength is achieved.
Despite the similarities, the different mechanisms used by each method produce distinct results in terms of taste, texture, and aroma. So while they share a common goal of brewing delicious coffee, a Moka Pot and a percolator are two unique brewing methods with their own strengths and appeal.
Learn how to use a Moka Pot in our article: How To Use A Moka Pot.
How Does A Percolator Work?
A percolator is a coffee brewing device that utilizes a unique coffee-making method. Unlike traditional drip coffee makers that rely on gravity to pass water through coffee grounds, a percolator brews coffee by cycling boiling water through a tube and into a basket that holds the coffee grounds. As the water cycles through the grounds, it extracts the coffee’s flavors, aromas, and caffeine, resulting in a rich and flavorful cup of coffee.
Percolators typically have three main components: a water chamber, a perforated basket for coffee grounds, and a tube that connects the water chamber to the coffee basket.
When the water in the percolator chamber boils, it is forced up through the tube and over the coffee grounds in the basket. The water then filters through the grounds and cycles back down into the water chamber, which is reheated and cycled through the grounds again. The process continues until the coffee has reached the desired strength and flavor.
What to Look for in a Coffee Percolator
When choosing a percolator coffee maker, there are several factors to consider. Here are some of the most important things to look for:
- Capacity: Percolators come in various sizes, ranging from small, one-cup models to large, 12-cup models. Consider how much coffee you need to brew at one time and choose a percolator with a capacity that meets your needs.
- Material: Percolators are typically made from stainless steel or aluminum. Stainless steel is more durable and long-lasting, while aluminum is more affordable and heats up quickly.
- Design: Look for a percolator with a design that is easy to use and clean. A percolator with a detachable cord and lid is easier to clean, while a clear glass knob on the lid makes it easy to see the brewing process.
- Price: Percolators range in price from budget-friendly options to high-end models. Determine your budget and choose a percolator that offers your desired features within your price range.
Percolator Coffee Grind
The grind of your coffee beans is an important factor to consider when using a percolator. For best results, use a coarse grind, similar to what you would use for a French press. A coarse grind allows water to flow freely through the coffee grounds, resulting in a flavorful and smooth cup of coffee.
Avoid using a fine grind, which can result in over-extraction and a bitter taste. The high water temperature and extended brewing time in a percolator can quickly turn a fine grind into a bitter and unpleasant cup of coffee.
If you prefer a stronger cup of coffee, simply adjust the amount of coffee grounds you use, rather than the grind size. By choosing the right coffee grind, you can ensure that your percolator brews a delicious and satisfying cup of coffee every time.
You can find more information on grinding coffee in our articles, Carmel Bay Coffee – Grinders.
Wrapping Up The Best Percolator Coffee Maker
The world of percolator coffee makers has a ton of variety of options available, but investing in the right one can provide you with years of delicious coffee. It’s essential to consider your lifestyle and budget when choosing the best percolator.
If convenience is a top priority, an electric model with a keep-warm function and automatic shut-off may be the way to go. However, a stovetop percolator can give you more control if you’re looking for more hands-on experience and the ability to adjust the brewing process to your liking.
Ultimately, finding the perfect percolator for your needs comes down to understanding what you’re looking for and finding a model that meets those requirements. Whether you’re seeking a traditional brewing experience or a modern, high-tech option, there’s a percolator for you. With the right percolator, you can enjoy the smooth, creamy flavor that only a percolator can deliver.
When you get your percolator, you might want to find some new and interesting coffee beans. Check out our article on coffee subscriptions. We have something for everyone!
