If you’re like most coffee fanatics, you like to keep things simple when it comes to preparing your daily cup of joe. I’m definitely in that boat – while I enjoy the coffee making process just as much as anyone else, I don’t have the technical sophistication (or patience) of a professional barista, so when I’m craving my daily dose of caffeine, I really just want to get on with it.
That’s why I appreciate filter coffee machines so much – all you have to do is load the filter with the coffee grounds of your choice, add some water and let the machine do its thing. As simple as this sounds, it can still become a burdensome process if you’re working with a low-quality filter coffee machine. To a genuine coffee enthusiast, this is nothing short of a tragedy.
Best filter coffee machine reviews 2020
| Model | Our score |
Price |
| Melitta 1011-16 Look IV Thermal Timer |
4.8 / 5 stars |
|
| Russell Hobbs 19170 Heritage |
4.7 / 5 stars |
|
| Philips HD7546/20 |
4.6 / 5 stars |
That is why, after much trial, error and experimentation (along with quite a few subpar cups of coffee), I have narrowed down my top 5 choices for the best filter coffee machines on the market, and now present them here for your consideration.
1. Melitta 1011-16 Look IV Therm Timer Coffee Filter Machine
The Melitta 1011-16 is an elegantly designed filter coffee machine with a programmable timer and a double-walled Therm jug. The design team at Melitta obviously worked hard to make this filter coffee machine as user-friendly as possible.
The jug features convenient one-hand operation, and the programmable timer allows you to start brewing coffee before you even wake up. Read our full review.
What I like about it:
- Thermal regulator ensures optimal brewing temperature
- Easy-to-use programmable timer
- Drip-free spout
- Wipe-down surfaces and removable components
2. Russell Hobbs Heritage Coffee Maker 19170
Russell Hobbs is a giant in the home appliance space, and they have continued in their tradition of excellence with this Heritage filter coffee maker. Its sharp metallic red design looks great on any worktop, but appearance isn’t all it has going for it – this coffee maker is a solid workhorse as well.
If you’re looking for a filter coffee maker with no frills and great performance, the Russell Hobbs 19170 definitely fits the bill. Read our full review.
What I like about it:
- Programmable timer with a clear LCD display
- Drip-stop valve allows you to serve while still brewing
- Removable filter basket
- Auto-shutoff feature ensures optimal safety
3. Philips HD 7546/20
The Philips HD 7546/20 not only offers an attractive design, but rugged functionality as well by way of its shatter-proof stainless steel thermos flask.
Unlike many filter coffee machines within its price range, the Philips HD 7546/20 is solidly made, offering durable construction that doesn’t feel flimsy in your hand. On top of that, this filter coffee machine serves your cup of joe very hot, and it tastes fantastic! Read our full review.
What I like about it:
- 1.2 litre water tank capacity
- Easy-to-read water level indicator
- Dishwasher-proof filter and parts
- Robust stainless steel thermos flask
4. Morphy Richards 162010 Pour Over Filter Coffee Maker
The Morphy Richards 162010 utilizes a special pour over shower head that creates a fuller flavour, along with a permanent reusable cupcake filter that produces exceptional smoothness in the body of the coffee.
And with the Morphy Richards brand, you can rest assured that you’re getting a quality product. Read our full review.
What I like about it:
- 1.8 litre capacity (up to 12 cups)
- Adjustable strength selector allows you to customize your brewing strength
- Programmable timer
- Pour over shower head for optimal flavour
5. Delonghi 1.3 Litre Filter Coffee Maker
The Delonghi brand is synonymous with quality, and this 1.3 litre filter coffee maker is no exception. One of the most convenient features about this coffee maker is its non-drip functionality; you can remove the jug at any time while your coffee is brewing without creating a mess. This is perfect for those of us who don’t want to wait for the entire pot to finish brewing before we can down our first cup of joe. The Delonghi ICM 15210 also features a stay-warm plate that will keep your coffee nice and hot, and best of all, it allows you to use paper filters. Read our full review.
What I like about it:
- Non-drip capability and auto shut-off feature
- Easy-to-read water level display
- Utilises paper filters
- 1.3 litre capacity
Buying guide / Key considerations
The type of coffee machine you should go for will largely depend upon how much you’re willing to spend.
For most caffeine addicts, the standard drip-brew coffee maker will do the trick (not to mention the fact that it’s the most economical way to go), but if you’re looking for a more refined, full-bodied flavour, the pour over models are definitely worth your consideration.
Pour over filter coffee makers are a bit of a different breed; they are based on a traditional Japanese manual coffee preparation technique that involves slowly pouring water over pre-wet coffee grounds.
Perhaps the best thing about choosing a standard drip-brew coffee maker is the speed at which it gets the job done; pour over models, on the other hand, will typically take longer to brew your coffee.
Below are some key considerations to keep in mind to help you choose the right filter coffee maker:
- Try to go for one with a programmable timer, so that you can wake up to the smell of freshly brewed coffee.
- While most filter coffee makers offer a glass jug, choosing one with an insulated jug can help keep your coffee warmer for a longer time.
- Choosing a filter coffee machine with a removable water tank will make the entire coffee making process a lot more convenient, and it makes the machine a heck of a lot easier to clean.
- If you want to keep things on the eco-friendly side (and who doesn’t), be sure to choose a coffee maker with an automatic shut-off feature for reduced power consumption and optimal safety.
Frequently asked questions
Q: How much does a decent filter coffee machine cost?
Prices can range anywhere between £10 and £150 (or even more), but a higher price tag does not always equal better quality.
Q: Which one is better: A drip-brew coffee maker or a pour over coffee maker?
Both types of machines have their merits; if you’re looking for optimal speed and convenience, go for the drip-brew coffee maker. The pour over coffee maker will take a little more time, but the positive trade-off is that it will typically produce a richer tasting coffee.
Q: What are the essential features I should look for in a filter coffee maker?
Go for one with a programmable timer, automatic shut-off, and at least a 1-litre capacity water tank. If you choose any of the machines listed above, you’ll be in good company.
Choosing the right filter coffee maker isn’t necessarily rocket science, but if you’re an avid coffee drinker, it’s not a decision you should not enter into lightly. Just keep the above information in mind to help you make a well-informed decision. Happy brewing!
Q: How do filter coffee machines work?
Also known as pour-over, filter coffee machines offer a simple way to prepare your daily cuppa joe. As the name suggests, they work by making use of filters to deliver your coffee. The filter is loaded with coffee grounds of choice and closed up.
After that, hot boiling water is added to the grounds. That’s where the name pour over comes from. That’s pretty much it; the machine takes care of the rest all on its own. But as part of how they work, filter coffee machines can get a bit fiddly and messy.
Q: How do you clean filter coffee machines?
If you’re using ceramic or glass brewers, cleanup is as easy as tossing the paper filter and grounds in the trash and washing the machine carefully with soap and warm water. However, steel pour over machines require more attention.
In addition to the regular dump and wash, you’ll also need to give them a monthly deep clean. This involves soaking the filters for 4 hours in a mixture of soap, hydrogen peroxide and citric acid. Wash thoroughly and then boil the filters in white vinegar. Dishwash, and then return the filters into a clean machine.
Q: How do you use a filter coffee machine?
Assemble your tools and ingredients first. These include fresh, roasted coffee beans, hot water, coffee grinder, kitchen scale and your pour-over machine. Weight out 32 grams and grind it to medium coarseness.
Place the brewer on the top of the carafe and then add your ground coffee on the filter. Slow and steady, start pouring hot water over the grounds making sure they get saturated evenly. This kicks off the bloom (release of CO2 from the coffee). Once you’re done pouring, give the coffee a minute to drain. Remove the filter, dump out the grounds, and enjoy your pour-over.
Q: How many spoons of coffee does the average filter machine use?
As we mentioned above, it takes about 32 grams of coffee beans to get one cup of coffee using a filter machine. This translates to about 6 tablespoons of beans before grinding.
As for the water, 65ml starts off the saturation process, then add as much as it takes to fill your cup. It usually takes less than 500ML to fill up an average cup.
