How to Use a Moka Pot: Your Guide to Making Perfect Italian-Style Coffee
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The Best Moka Pot: Our Top 10 of 2025
Written by Alice
Reading time 12 minIf you’re a coffee lover who cherishes the ritual of brewing a rich and aromatic cup of coffee, then you’re undoubtedly familiar with the Moka pot. This iconic stovetop espresso maker has been a staple in Italian households for generations, and its popularity continues to grow worldwide.
- ORIGINS AND HISTORY OF THE MOKA POT
- HOW TO SELECT A GOOD MOKA POT
- How to make the best espresso with a Moka pot?
- HOW WE CREATED THIS LIST
-
OUR SELECTION
- Bialetti Moka Express – 6 cups
- Pylano Moka Pot Kiara in Glass & Stainless Steel – 6 cups
- Alessi Moka Coffee Maker Designed by Alessandre Mendini – 6 cups
- Alessi Moka Coffee Maker designed by Sir David Chipperfield – 3 cups
- Bialetti New Venus Induction Moka Pot Coffee Maker – 6 cups
- Bialetti New Moka Induction Red – 6 cups
- Alessi 9090 Moka Pot for Induction Hobs Designed by Richard Sapper – 3 cups
- Bialetti moka pot Mini Express 2 cups with 2 Red Bicchierini Cups
- Alessi Moka Coffee Maker Designed by Alessandre Mendini – 6 cups
- Bialetti Moka Express 6 cups Coffee Maker + Induction Plate Converter
- WHICH ITALIAN COFFEE POT IS BEST FOR YOU?
ORIGINS AND HISTORY OF THE MOKA POT
Originating in the 1930s, Moka pots, commonly known as stovetop espresso makers or Italian coffee makers, have been a staple for Italian coffee lovers for decades. First invented by Italian engineer Alfonso Bialetti in 1933, this iconic espresso maker delivers a strong and aromatic coffee blend, bridging the gap between espresso and filter coffee.
The Moka pot can also handle any type of roast, and any type of hob and is an affordable, portable and eco-friendly purchase! Now you see why it’s a must! While it accommodates different roasts, it’s particularly well-suited for medium roasts, and naturally, the bold Italian dark roast.
How does a Moka pot differ from a French press , you may ask? The Moka pot forces steam through ground coffee in its bottom chamber, delivering a rich and concentrated brew. The French press, on the other hand, employs a simple yet effective immersion brewing method, allowing coarsely ground coffee to steep in hot water before pressing the plunger to extract a flavoursome cup of coffee.
Now that I convinced you to get a Moka pot, you might wonder which model suits you best. Given the diverse array of options in terms of quality, price, build, and size, choosing the right one can be a challenge. To help you out, we’ve put together a list of our best Moka pots for 2024.
Which Moka Pot Should I Choose?
If you’re into rich, full-bodied coffee with that classic Italian flair, a moka pot is a great way to go. The Bialetti Moka Express is a longtime favorite, super reliable, easy to use, and kind of the go-to for anyone just getting started. If you’re more into sleek design and don’t mind spending a bit more, Alessi makes some beautiful moka pots like the Pulcina and 9090 that brew just as well as they look. Moka pots come in all sizes, from tiny 1-cup models (perfect for a solo morning brew) to big 18-cup ones if you’re making coffee for a crowd. Just think about how much coffee you usually drink, what kind of stovetop you have (induction or gas), and whether you prefer that classic aluminium look or something more polished in stainless steel.
HOW TO SELECT A GOOD MOKA POT
When choosing an Italian coffee maker, prioritise durability and quality. Also, consider the material and compatibility with your hob type. Traditionally crafted from aluminium, Moka pots have evolved to include stainless steel models, catering to the growing popularity of induction hobs. While aluminium Moka pots suit electric stoves, they require meticulous hand washing and care to maintain their longevity, as they are more prone to damage from dishwashers or abrasive cleaning tools.
In contrast, stainless steel, known for its non-porous and rust-resistant properties, demands less upkeep and is high quality, ensuring durability and ease of maintenance. Although a stainless steel moka pot offers resilience, it’s important to note that the brewing process might be comparatively lengthier than that of aluminium Moka pots.
Top tip
To create the perfect cup, be sure to pay attention to the heat source and ensure it’s set to the ideal temperature for your Moka pot to work its magic. Each Moka pot will have different specifications, so take the time to read through the instructions when you first receive yours. For a comprehensive guide on selecting the ideal Moka pot and how to use it, take a look at our detailed article, “Moka Pot: Making Coffee the Italian Way, Our Guide to the Moka Pot.”
What is the best grind for Moka pots?
The best grind for Moka pots is a fine to medium-fine consistency—slightly coarser than espresso but finer than what’s used for drip coffee. This grind size allows the water to flow through the coffee at the right pressure, extracting rich, full-bodied flavour without over- or under-extracting. A grind that’s too coarse will lead to weak, watery coffee, while one that’s too fine can clog the filter and create too much pressure, affecting both taste and safety.
The texture should resemble table salt or fine sand—gritty but compact enough to slow the water flow and enhance flavour extraction. For the best brew results, use freshly ground coffee and fill the filter basket without tamping the grounds. Simply level them off with your finger to ensure an even brew. This approach helps the Moka pot work efficiently and consistently deliver that bold, aromatic cup of coffee it’s known for.
How to make the best espresso with a Moka pot?
To make the best Moka pot coffee, start by using freshly ground coffee with a medium-fine grind—about the texture of table salt. Fill the bottom chamber of the Moka pot with hot (not boiling) water up to the safety valve. This helps speed up brewing and reduces the risk of over-extracting the coffee. Insert the filter basket and fill it with coffee, leveling it off without tamping. Assemble the Moka pot and place it on low to medium heat.
Leave the lid open and watch as the coffee slowly begins to bubble into the top chamber. Once you hear a hissing or gurgling sound, remove the pot from the heat—this indicates the brewing is almost complete. Let the coffee finish flowing, then close the lid and serve immediately. For the smoothest cup, you can give the coffee brew a quick stir before pouring. Always clean your Moka pot after each use by rinsing it with warm water (no soap), and dry it thoroughly to keep it in top condition.
HOW WE CREATED THIS LIST
At MaxiCoffee, we’ve been selling coffee and coffee makers for over 20 years. Our expertise allows us to know the best attributes and characteristics to look out for in all varieties of coffee makers.
To create this list, we used set criteria to test a wide range of Moka pots, including measuring the concentration of the coffee, the durability, the ease of use, the time to make the coffee, the resulting brew, a taste test and more. We also considered customer feedback to create a comprehensive and accurate ranking of the best overall moka pots. We are confident that our ranking of the best moka pots of 2025 is accurate and objective, so if you’re looking for your new Moka pot, then you’re definitely in the right place. We also made sure there are cheaper moka pots in our selection so that there is an affordable option for everyone.
Now that all that is out of the way, let’s dive in and help you find your new favorite Moka pot !
OUR SELECTION
We’ve compiled a list of the best Moka pots of 2025, based on factors such as quality, price, and features. Whether you’re already a Moka pot user and are looking for an upgrade or are a beginner wanting to start your journey, this is the list for you. It’s time to embrace the authentic Italian charm of the Moka Pot, a timeless piece that consistently delivers an impeccable espresso-like experience. Let’s get you paired up with your ideal Moka pot!
Bialetti Moka Express – 6 cups
If you’re a beginner, the Bialetti Moka Express is the place to start and our top pick. Bialetti is the leading brand for Moka pot coffee makers. They offer guaranteed quality and a range of formats.
Bialetti has cemented its brand reputation thanks to its original design. The Moka Express, with its understated handle, not only ensures a secure grip but also exudes timeless elegance. Continuing its legacy into 2023, the Moka Express stands as a true classic, inviting aficionados to rediscover the captivating aromas synonymous with Italian-style coffee. If you find yourself uncertain about the ideal coffee pairing for your Bialetti Moka Express, explore our starter bundle, featuring the meticulously crafted Bialetti Perfetto Moka coffee, specifically roasted to complement Moka pots and guaranteed to provide an amazing brew.
Bialetti Moka Express – 6 cups
– Capacity : 30cl = 6 cups
– Aluminium
– Not suitable for induction hobs
Pylano Moka Pot Kiara in Glass & Stainless Steel – 6 cups
Discover the perfect fusion of tradition and modern design with the Kiara Moka pot by Pylano. This sleek stainless steel and borosilicate glass moka pot, compatible with induction, effortlessly brews up to 6 cups of rich, aromatic coffee brew. Pylano, known for their trendy and user-friendly kitchenware products, continues to infuse contemporary elegance into the timeless allure of the classic Italian moka pot.
Italian coffee maker – Kiara – Pylano (6 cups/30 cl)
Capacity: 6 cups / 30 cl
Compatible with: Induction stov
Material: Stainless steel & Glass
Alessi Moka Coffee Maker Designed by Alessandre Mendini – 6 cups
Another top pick, this Alessi cast aluminium Moka pot was developed and designed by the Italian designer Alessandro Mendini. It is part of the Moka Alessi range, which showcases a variety of moka pots. It is a superb, top-of-the-range moka pot with a unique design, made from quality materials. It has a 6-cup, or 300ml, capacity.
Moka pot – Moka coffee maker designed by Alessandre Mendini – Alessi
– Capacity: 30cl (6 cups)
– Cast aluminium
– All heat sources (except induction)
Alessi Moka Coffee Maker designed by Sir David Chipperfield – 3 cups
Designed by British architect Sir David Chipperfield for Alessi, this Moka pot is a superb coffee maker with a unique design. With a flat lid that doubles up as a cup warmer, a high-quality aluminium body and a polyamide handle, this coffee maker is durable and produce an amazing cup of coffee. This moka pot has a 150ml (3 espresso cups) capacity and is compatible with all heat sources except induction stoves.
Alessi Moka Coffee Maker designed by Sir David Chipperfield – 3 cups
– Capacity: 30cl (6 cups)
– Aluminium
– All heat sources (except induction)
Bialetti New Venus Induction Moka Pot Coffee Maker – 6 cups
Designed by Guido Bergna, a famous designer of house appliances, the first Bialetti Venus Moka Pot seduces with its soft and elegant lines. Compatible with induction hobs and all other heat sources, it means everyone can enjoy a good Italian coffee! Over the years, the Venus has become as iconic as the original Moka Express. Both classy and functional, the New Venus has an anti-drip spout so you can pour your coffee without making a mess. With this new design, the water boiler’s base is 20% thicker making it safer and sturdier. The newly designed handle, the New Moka Venus ‘R’ is ergonomic and elegant. The anti-scale handle ensures security and optimal grip which lacked with the first Venus model.
Moka Pot – Venus Induction – Bialetti (6 cups)
– Capacity: 30cl = 6 cups
– 18/10 Stainless steel
– Suitable for all hobs + induction
– New Design
Bialetti New Moka Induction Red – 6 cups
With its new range of Moka Pots suitable for induction stoves, Bialetti combines tradition and modernity. The Moka Induction’s handle is simple and elegant, guaranteeing both safety and an optimal grip. The stainless steel exterior layer of the boiler is induction-compatible, while the internal aluminium layer ensures uniform heat dispersion. The combination of the aluminium body, typical of the classic Moka, along with the dual-layer boiler, guarantees a coffee experience as delightful as that from the conventional Moka.
Moka pot – New Moka Induction red – Bialetti
– Capacity: 30 cl (6 cups)
– Materials: Stainless steel & Aluminium
– Suitable for Induction Hobs
Alessi 9090 Moka Pot for Induction Hobs Designed by Richard Sapper – 3 cups
Established in 1921 by Giovanni Alessi, Alessi has consistently led the way in pioneering and inspired product design, boasting a wide range of products. Crafted from premium 18/10 stainless steel, this Moka Pot from Alessi was developed and designed by German designer Richard Sapper. This top-of-the-range moka pot features a distinctive design and was made with the highest of quality materials. With a 3 cup, or 150ml, capacity, it is also available in 6 and 9-cup options.
Alessi 9090 Moka Pot for Induction Hobs Designed by Richard Sapper – 3 cups
– Capacity: 15cl (3 cups)
– Stainless steel 18/10
– Induction
Bialetti moka pot Mini Express 2 cups with 2 Red Bicchierini Cups
Savour the perfection of two espressos with the stylish Bialetti Mini Express moka pot, accompanied by two 9cl Bicchierini cups. Suitable for all heat sources except induction, this compact pot ensures a delightful coffee-sharing experience. Its special aluminium plate keeps your cups warm during brewing, while its display-worthy design adds charm to your kitchen. As an Italian market leader since 1933, Bialetti is renowned for its blend of technology and elegance, delivering not just functionality but sheer kitchen sophistication.
Bialetti moka pot Mini Express 2 cups with 2 Red Bicchierini Cups
– Capacity: 2 cups / 10 cl
– Compatible with: All burners except induction
– Material: Aluminium
Alessi Moka Coffee Maker Designed by Alessandre Mendini – 6 cups
This Alessi cast aluminium Moka pot was developed and designed by the Italian designer Alessandro Mendini. It is part of the Moka Alessi range, which showcases a variety of moka pots. It is a superb, top-of-the-range moka pot with a unique design, made from quality materials. It has a 6-cup, or 300ml, capacity.
Moka pot – Moka coffee maker designed by Alessandre Mendini – Alessi
– Capacity: 30cl (6 cups)
– Cast aluminium
– All heat sources (except induction)
Bialetti Moka Express 6 cups Coffee Maker + Induction Plate Converter
This last top pick is probably the bestselling Moka pot in the world, and it now comes with an induction plate converter (13cm diameter). Bialetti’s Moka stovetop coffee maker has long been a symbol of Italian elegance and simplicity and is renowned for its signature 8-sided aluminium base that enhances coffee aroma. The Moka Express’s sleek handle ensures both security and a comfortable grip.
Bialetti Moka Express 6 cups Coffee Maker + Induction Plate Converter
– 6 cups capacity (300ml)
– Compatible with: All burners
– Material: Aluminium
WHICH ITALIAN COFFEE POT IS BEST FOR YOU?
As you can see, it all depends on your criteria! Price, taste, materials, design, efficiency? It’s up to you to decide and we hope that our selection was able to help you choose the right Moka Pot! Don’t forget that with a great Moka Pot comes great coffee!
Here are two top tips:
For a rich and flavourful experience, ensure your coffee grinder is set to the appropriate level to produce finely ground coffee suitable for your Moka pot.
Moka pots can be very long-lasting coffee makers, as long as they are well looked after. Don’t forget to read the care instructions provided with your Moka pot when you receive it, as not all Moka pots require the same type of cleaning and maintenance.
If you’re still unsure, take a look at our full range of Moka pots here. You can also check out our selection of ground coffee specific to Moka Pots. In the meantime, see you soon on MaxiCoffee!
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