7 Best Siphon Coffee Makers 2020
Photo: 2caffeinated.com
The siphon coffee maker is a coffee machine invented in the 19th century. It uses ground coffee to produce a very refined, smooth, and full-bodied coffee brew that somewhat tastes a bit like tea.
In the past, the siphon method to brew coffee used to be very popular until it got replaced by other simpler brewing methods like the drip or the French Press.
However, the siphon coffee maker is again gaining in popularity and making a big comeback. Despite its complex looks, the siphon coffee maker is actually quite simple and easy to use by almost anyone.
It normally consists of a burner, an upper and a lower bowl to contain the coffee brew. Basically, this coffee maker uses the difference between hot and cold temperatures to “siphon” the flavors and aromas from the coffee brew.
If you are interested in making coffee the old way using the siphon coffee maker, then go for it! Below you will find a hand-picked selection of some of the best siphon coffee makers on the market.
Let’s go find a good model for you!
Why Choose A Siphon Coffee Maker?
1. Total Immersion
Total immersion is a process where the ground coffee is in constant contact with hot water inside the siphon coffee maker during the brewing process.
This guarantees that the flavors have a medium through which they can move out of the ground coffee effortlessly.
2. Vacuum Effect
When heat is applied to the bulb, convection currents in the coffee maker creates a vacuum.
This vacuum “siphons” the coffee brew downwards into the bulb through the filter.
One of the biggest advantages of the vacuum effect is that it forces the ground coffee to lose its flavors more effectively.
In turn, this produces a more aromatic brew that is rich in flavors. This is mostly what gives the siphon coffee maker its unique tasting coffee when compared to other coffee makers.
3. Consistent Heat
Temperature is key when brewing coffee in the siphon coffee maker.
Basically, you need a consistent temperature throughout the brewing process. Since the siphon coffee maker requires a consistent heat, it is important that this coffee maker comes with a high-quality burner.
Note that it does not matter if it is a stovetop or a standalone model. Only the consistency of temperature matters here.
4. Cool Design
Even if the design of the siphon coffee maker does not play a direct role in the taste of the coffee, it is still important to go with a model that has a cool design.
An aesthetically pleasing coffee maker in your kitchen is an instant eye-grabber and will immediately uplift the looks of your entire kitchen. It also shows that you are serious about your coffee!
You can also read other product reviews of coffee maker, pour over coffee maker, grind and brew coffee maker, cold brew coffee maker, percolator, stovetop espresso maker.
7 Best Siphon Coffee Makers – Review
IMAGE | PRODUCT | FEATURES | |
|---|---|---|---|
 | 1. Hario Technica 5-Cup (High-quality from Japan) | ||
 | 2. Nispira Belgian Luxury Royal (Traditional & Luxurious 19th Century Model) | ||
 | 3. Yama Glass 8-Cup Stovetop YAMSY (Highly Affordable with Superior Cup Capacity) | ||
 | 4. Kendal Glass Tabletop (Affordable & Beginner-friendly) | ||
 | 5. Diguo Belgian DG878 (Authentic Egyptian Style) | ||
 | 6. Bodum PEBO 1208-01US4 (Simple & Easy to Use by Beginners) | ||
 | 7. KitchenAid KCM0812OB (Durable & High-Capacity Electric Model) |
PRODUCT |
|---|
1. Hario Technica 5-Cup (High-quality from Japan) |
2. Nispira Belgian Luxury Royal (Traditional & Luxurious 19th Century Model) |
3. Yama Glass 8-Cup Stovetop YAMSY (Highly Affordable with Superior Cup Capacity) |
4. Kendal Glass Tabletop (Affordable & Beginner-friendly) |
5. Diguo Belgian DG878 (Authentic Egyptian Style) |
6. Bodum PEBO 1208-01US4 (Simple & Easy to Use by Beginners) |
7. KitchenAid KCM0812OB (Durable & High-Capacity Electric Model) |
1. Hario Technica 5-Cup – High-quality Siphon Coffee Maker from Japan
Photo: Hario
- Capacity: 5 cups per 570 mL
- Material: Brass, Aluminum, and Borosilicate Glass
- Rangetop: Butane
The Hario Technica is a top-rated siphon coffee maker that is able to brew 5 cups of coffee per every 570 mL of water. In terms of capacity, it is average, but the quality of the coffee that it can brew is simply superb.
In addition, the price of this product is very attractive considering that it is built for durability.
Indeed, it is made from a mixture of brass, aluminum, and very durable borosilicate glass. It will definitely serve you for years without any hiccups.
What we also like about this siphon coffee maker is that if the filter is made from stainless steel. Therefore, it is very easy to clean and will not corrode over time.
The stove is also quite easy to use, and all you will need is butane gas. When it comes to refilling, you will have no problem, and you can do it in a matter of seconds.
More detailed: click here
Pros:
Cons:
Notes
Since this coffee maker can make 5 cups per brew, it is ideal for no more than 2 people
2. Nispira Belgian Luxury Royal – Traditional and Luxurious 19th Century Model
Photo: Nispira
- Capacity: 5 cups per 500 mL
- Material: Wood, Stainless Steel, and Borosilicate Glass
- Rangetop: Alcohol
If you want a true siphon coffee maker like they used to brew coffee in the 19th century, then the Nispira Belgian is the right choice for you.
Indeed, when it comes to building construction, this siphon coffee maker is one of the best siphon coffee brewers on the market. It uses a mixture of wood, stainless steel, and glass that provides great functionality as well as is very aesthetically pleasing. In addition, due to the materials used in this coffee maker, it is very easy to clean as well.
In order to replicate the traditional feel even further, this siphon coffee maker uses alcohol. Most modern siphon coffee makers are now stovetop but alcohol to power the burner used to be very popular back in the day.
The only caveat we note with this product is that it has a low capacity of 5 cups per 500 mL of water. Therefore, we can only recommend this siphon coffee maker for those who do not need to brew a lot of coffee. It will be ideal for one or 2 people.
Pros:
Cons:
Notes
The knob on the spout is made from plastic so you need to be careful when operating it as it may break easily if mishandled.
3. Yama Glass 8-Cup Stovetop YAMSY – Highly Affordable with Superior Cup Capacity
Photo: Yama Glass
- Capacity: 8 cups
- Material: Borosilicate Glass and Plastic
- Rangetop: Gas or Electric Stovetop
Not everybody can afford an expensive siphon coffee maker. This is where products like the Yama comes into play. Indeed, when compared to other products in this siphon coffee maker review, the Yama is the most affordably priced.
Therefore, if you have a low budget but still want to experience brewing coffee in a siphon coffee maker, this is an excellent choice.
Despite being affordable, it still made from heat-resistant borosilicate glass and durable plastic. It is definitely a dependable coffee maker that you can use daily. Although, this siphon coffee maker is definitely not as durable when compared to more premium grade models.
But what we like the most about this product is its high capacity of 8 cups per brew. For the price, the Yama is definitely superior to others in this review, at least in terms of price to capacity ratio.
Pros:
Cons:
Notes
This siphon coffee maker does not come with a burner as it is a stovetop model. Instead, you will need to use it on your kitchen’s electric or gas stove
4. Kendal Glass Tabletop – Affordable and Beginner-friendly
Photo: Kendal
- Capacity: 5 cups
- Material: Heat-resistant Glass and Plastic
- Rangetop: Alcohol
The Kendal is another affordable siphon coffee maker that has an excellent build construction. Indeed, this coffee maker has a heat-resistant glass that will not crack or shatter under the heat.
Additionally, even if it uses plastic for the handle, it is a high-grade plastic that is quite durable. If you don’t want to spend a lot of money to brew your coffee using the siphon method, then the Kendal is definitely one of the best siphon coffee makers for the money.
It also uses alcohol for the burner, so you will have no problem refilling it. When it comes to the burner itself, it is quite reliable and sends a consistent heat to the bulb for optimal coffee brewing conditions.
The only caveat we note with this product is that it can brew only 5 cups of coffee. Therefore, we recommend it only for those who will be brewing coffee for no more than 2 people. But other than that, this product is simply perfect.
Pros:
Cons:
Notes
This is a very slow siphon coffee maker. We recommend it only if you have the patience. Also, the wick should be just a bit above the ceramic ring for it to light up properly.
5. Diguo Belgian DG878 – Authentic Egyptian Style Siphon Coffee Maker
Photo: Diguo
- Capacity: 5 cups per 500 mL
- Material: 304 Stainless Steel, Wood, and Borosilicate Glass
- Rangetop: Alcohol
One thing that almost everyone will love with this siphon coffee maker is its looks. Indeed, this model is one of the most aesthetically pleasing units that you will find in this review.
It is made from a high-grade 304 stainless steel material that is very durable and long-lasting. Additionally, the stand and handles are made from durable and elegant wood material. This product definitely looks like those Egyptian style siphon coffee makers that they used to make back in the day.
The only caveat we note is that it has a low capacity of 5 groups per 500 mL. In addition, it is not as beginner friendly when compared to other coffee makers so far.
However, if you want the authentic experience when using a siphon coffee maker, then the Diguo Belgian is definitely the best vacuum coffee maker that you can currently buy.
Pros:
Cons:
6. Bodum PEBO 1208-01US4 – Simple and Easy to Use by Beginners
Photo: Bodum
- Capacity: 8 cups per 1000 mL
- Material: Heat-resistant Glass and Plastic
- Rangetop: Gas or Electric Stovetop
The Bodum is simple and easy to use siphon coffee maker that is particularly suited for beginners. There are far too many complex siphon coffee makers on the market, and this is a problem than the Bodum is here to solve.
You will need to place the carafe on your kitchen stovetop to use this coffee maker. Any electric or gas stovetop will do, as long as it has a heat diffuser between them.
What we also like about this coffee maker is its high capacity of 8 cups per 1000 mL of water. You can definitely use this unit to brew a coffee for the whole family.
Pros:
Cons:
Notes
You will need a gas or electric stovetop to use this coffee maker. Also, don’t forget to place a heat diffuser between the stovetop and the carafe or it will cause damage to the coffee maker.
7. KitchenAid KCM0812OB – Durable and High-Capacity Electric Model
Photo: KitchenAid
- Capacity: 8 cups
- Material: Heat-resistant Glass and Stainless Steel
- Rangetop: Electric
If you are looking for a superior siphon coffee maker in terms of durability, looks, and functionality, look no further. This product by KitchenAid is one of the best electric siphon coffee makers on the market. Electric siphon coffee makers are quite rare, but they are so much easier to use.
You simply plug it in your electric socket, press a button, and it will start brewing just like a regular coffee maker. Except that this unit by KitchenAid follows all the procedures of a siphon brew and the quality of the coffee is no less than using a traditional siphon coffee maker that uses alcohol.
In terms of durability, this unit is very well built and uses durable materials like stainless steel and heat-resistant glass in its construction. It will definitely last you a long time, and it’s also very easy to clean as well.
Pros:
Cons:
Notes
This unit uses a magnetic lock to fasten the hopper to the bulb. Gently press the handle forward instead of lifting upwards to move them apart
How to Buy the Best Siphon Coffee Makers
Photo: pixabay
The siphon coffee maker comes as either a stovetop or a standalone model. Even if they look different, there is little difference in the way they work.
A stovetop siphon coffee maker uses heat from your kitchen stovetop. It usually comes with a metal heat diffuser that will protect the carafe from getting direct contact to the stovetop.
The standalone model, on the other hand, has a small burner at the bottom that is powered by either alcohol, gas, or electricity.
One of the main differences of the standalone model is that it usually has a wick that you light up for the heat. In addition, it comes with a stand and has a small container for refilling fuel.
1. Capacity
Most siphon coffee makers are able to brew around 3 to 8 cups of coffee in one brew.
Every siphon coffee maker has its own capacity, and you will need to choose a model based on your need. If, for example, you will be preparing coffee for many people then go with a model that can produce at least 8 cups.
For personal consumption, you may go with a siphon coffee maker that can make only 3 to 5 cups of coffee per brew.
Notice that a higher capacity siphon coffee maker also generally translates into more expensive pricing.
If you don’t need the high capacity, then going with a lower capacity siphon coffee maker will also help you save some money as well. Neat!
2. Material
If you want a durable and long-lasting siphon coffee maker, then it is important to pay attention to the materials used in the build construction of this device.
Specifically, you need to ensure that there are no materials that are prone to corrosion or rust as this will be a machine that will be in constant contact with liquids.
Go for materials like glass for the hopper and bulb. Choose stainless steel for the stands as this will guarantee that you have a durable and dependable coffee maker that you can use every day.
Also, glass is neutral so it will not affect the taste of the coffee when brewing.
Additionally, a siphon coffee maker made from glass and stainless steel will be easier to clean.
3. Filter
The filter is pretty much the heart of the siphon coffee maker. It filters the coffee brew when it is drawn back to the bulb and produces a clean and refined coffee that is free of any debris.
Most coffee makers on the market already have a built-in filter. Keep an eye out for the presence of this filter as it is a specialized filter that has a specific dimension.
So, if you don’t get a filter with your coffee maker, then you will not be able to use the siphon coffee maker to its fullest potential.
Moreover, go with a filter that is made from stainless steel as it will be significantly easier to clean and more durable than a filter that is made out of cloth.
4. Burner
The burner is also an extremely important part of this coffee maker.
Basically, the burner sends a constant heat to the bulb, and it is this constant heat that allows the siphon coffee maker to make a smooth and unique tasting coffee.
You must ensure that the burner is high-quality, adjustable, as well as consistent in the amount of heat that it can send at any given time.
Remember, the temperature is key when brewing coffee using the siphon coffee maker and even the best vacuum coffee maker on the market will deliver a sub-par coffee is the temperature is not consistent.
How to Use a Siphon Coffee Maker
Photo: Kendal
Here is a stepwise manner that will help you use the siphon coffee maker in the most efficient way possible.
Step 1 - Soak your Filter
If your filter is made out of cloth, allow it to soak in warm water for at least five minutes. Soaking your filter is very important as it will allow it to filter your coffee brew more efficiently.
Once five minutes have passed, drop your filter in the top bowl of the siphon coffee maker (also known as hopper) and then connect the bottom bowl (also known as a bulb) to the top bowl with the glass tubing.
Step 2 - Add Water
Once the hopper has been connected to the bulb, add around 300 grams of hot water to the bulb or bottom bowl.
Step 3 - Apply Heat
Once the above steps have been performed, connect the hopper that contains the filter the bulb and then start applying heat to the bulb.
Step 4 - Add Ground Coffee
Once the water in the bulb has heated, it will move to the top hopper. Then, add around 20 to 25 grams of ground coffee to the hopper and mix thoroughly.
Note that your coffee needs to be finely ground before you perform this task. If you are using whole bean coffee, then you will need to pre-grind it first.
Step 5 - Let it Brew
Let the ground coffee mixture in the hopper brew for at least 1 minute and 10 seconds so that all the flavors can come out.
Step 6 - Remove Siphon
In a quick movement, remove the siphon from the hopper so that you are only left with the coffee brew.
Then, mix the brew thoroughly with a spoon. Once this is done, wait another minute for the coffee to deposit down in the bulb.
Step 7 - Serve
Once the coffee has deposited to the bottom, remove the topmost hopper and serve the coffee from the bulb itself.
Conclusion
Even if the siphon coffee maker looks like a complex device, it is actually very easy to use by beginners, and you do not need any experience to brew a tasty cup of coffee with it.
Best, siphon brewing produces a coffee that is very smooth, full-bodied and tastes a bit like tea, so it is a unique brewing process that produces a unique coffee.
Since most models are aesthetically pleasing, it will also look awesome in the kitchen!
So, if you are adventurous enough to buy a model from our siphon coffee maker review above then go for it. It will serve you for years to come and make delicious coffee servings every day.
