The stainless steel moka pot is a modern design change to the traditional aluminum Moka pot. The original Moka pot was invented in 1933 by Italian inventor Alfonso Bialetti and was made from aluminum (1). The design has stood strong against the test of time and is still a popular choice for stovetop espresso makers.
As technology advanced, new shapes and materials have been used to construct Moka pots. A lot more Moka pots are now made from stainless steel to address health concerns surrounding the use of aluminum in Moka pots.
There are many articles and studies out there that address and counter these concerns. We do not claim to be scientists or health experts, but we do believe the benefits of stainless outweighs the potential health risks of aluminum (2).
In this article, we are going to give you the inside scoop into some of the best stainless steel moka pots, how to use them, things to consider before making a choice and of course, our top pick. To meet the needs of all our readers, we reviewed affordable options, mid-priced options, and a few high-end classic collections for our aficionados.
Ready to brew?
- Best Stainless Steel Moka Pot Reviews
- 1. Bialetti Kitty Italian Espresso Coffee Maker – Best Stainless Steel Moka Pot
- 2. Bialetti Venus Induction – Most Compact & Induction Ready
- 3. Cuisinox Roma Stainless Steel Stovetop Moka Espresso Maker
- 4. Godmorn Stovetop Italian Coffee Maker – Budget Pick
- 5. Alessi Espresso Maker 9090 – Buy-It-For-Life Pick
- 6. GROSCHE Milano Stainless Steel Stovetop Espresso Maker – Value Pick
- Things to Consider Before You Invest in a Stainless Steel Moka Pot
- Conclusion
- Frequently Asked Questions
- References
Best Stainless Steel Moka Pot Reviews
Take a look at some of the following Moka pot coffee makers to see which one suits your needs the best:
1. Bialetti Kitty Italian Espresso Coffee Maker – Best Stainless Steel Moka Pot
Features:
Capacity: 10 Cups
Material: 18/10 Stainless Steel / Plastic
Warranty: 10 Years
Heat Source: Induction, Electric Coil, Gas, Ceramic
PROS
CONS
Having a family full of coffee addicts can be overwhelming to prepare for. If this sounds like your situation, Bialetti Kitty – Italian Espresso Coffee Maker could be a viable option.
With a 10-cup capacity (2, 4,& 6 cups exist too), you can comfortably serve for one or a group. Thanks to the stainless construction, this Moka pot does not require to be seasoned like its aluminum predecessor. The quality and durability are stellar and perfect for carrying around during outdoor trips and adventures.
Safety is paramount for heating appliances and the Bialetti Kitty-Italian Espresso Coffee Maker does feature several. For instance, the handle is heat-resistant and extends away from the pot so your hands are safe from burns. Included as well is Bialetti’s fail-safe value to ensure safe operations.
The Bialetti Kitty is a sleek-looking and affordable Moka pot that are perfect for anyone looking to ditch their aluminum pot or anyone looking to get their first stovetop espresso maker.
2. Bialetti Venus Induction – Most Compact & Induction Ready
Features:
Capacity: 4 Cups
Material: 18/10 Stainless Steel / Plastic
Warranty: 2 Years
Compatible Stovetops: Induction, Electric Coil, Gas, Ceramic
PROS
CONS
If for any reason Bialetti Kitty-Italian Espresso Coffee Maker fails to impress, you should consider the Bialetti Venus Induction. Bearing the brand’s signature of reliable performance, this stovetop espresso maker brews flavorful coffee in around 4-5 minutes.
And guess what, it is compatible with any heat source. Whether you cook with an induction stove, electric or gas stove, it will operate just fine. For proper performance, you are not recommended to use it for anything else apart from coffee making. Cocoa powder, teas and instant coffee will clog it.
Bialetti Venus Induction, unlike aluminum varieties, does not rust or alter the taste of your coffee. On top of that, a capacity of 4 makes it ideal for small to medium sized families.
This stainless steel Moka pot would be great for anyone who does not want to spend a fortune but still looking to brew restaurant-quality Italian coffee. If you are looking for a compact induction ready stainless steel Moka pot, the Bialetti Venus would be a great choice.
Features:
Capacity: 10 Cups
Material: 18/10 Stainless Steel
Warranty: 25 Years
Compatible Stovetops: Induction, Electric Coil, Gas, Ceramic
PROS
CONS
If you are here for the best stainless steel moka pot that can last a lifetime, we’ve got an answer for you. And that is no other than Cuisinox Roma 10-Cup Stainless Steel Stovetop Moka Espresso Maker.
This 10-cup stovetop espresso maker is great for big households that may also receive visitors often. Although the capacity is advertised as 10 cups, you can also brew fewer cups by using less water and using the provided espresso reducer. At full capacity this moka pot takes no longer than 4-5 minutes before it is ready to serve. Besides its remarkable design and volume, our tests proved to us it can brew one of the best tasting espresso brewed at home.
Cuisinox Roma 10-Cup Stainless Steel Stovetop Moka Espresso Maker has a glistening rust-proof stainless exterior for easy cleaning. The interior is devoid of corners and this makes post-coffee clean up a breeze. Like other Stovetop coffee makers, you need to use less heat to allow for a more potent brew.
This is not the cheapest stainless steel moka pot on the market, but it is backed by a 25-year limited warranty. This is quite the testament of Cuisinox’s confidence in their product. This is the longest warranty provided by any manufacturer for coffee gear we have ever reviewed.
The Cuisinox Roma provides great value for the money and best suits anyone looking to invest in a high-quality Moka pot that will last.
4. Godmorn Stovetop Italian Coffee Maker – Budget Pick
Features:
Capacity: 9 Cups (450ml)
Material: 430 Stainless Steel / Plastic
Warranty: N/A
Compatible Stovetops: Induction, Electric Coil, Gas, Ceramic, Alcohol
PROS
CONS
If all you need is a decent stovetop espresso maker moka pot, then you should check out the Godmorn Stovetop Italian Coffee Maker. Quite frankly, it is the best budget friendly option in this moka pot review.
For a few dollars, this moka pot can prepare a strong coffee that packs a good punch. This is because of the high-quality extraction pothole. Therefore, the taste will be just as good as what you get from your local cafe. No smells, no corrosions, and no metal tasting coffee, just a basic moka pot that delivers on a solid cup of coffee.
But it doesn’t end there. This affordable stovetop espresso maker can brew up to 9 cups making it preferable for larger homes. What about heating sources? Well, this Moka pot works well with an electric furnace, ceramic stovetops, gas stoves and many more. The safety elements include a safety valve and a heat-insulated ergonomic handle.
Godmorn Stovetop Italian Coffee Maker is worth more than what you’ll spend on it. It does have a few flaws albeit nothing deal-breaking. If you are on a budget and looking for something simple to get the job done, this stainless steel Moka pot would be a great choice!
5. Alessi Espresso Maker 9090 – Buy-It-For-Life Pick
Features:
Capacity: 6 or 10 Cups
Material: 18/10 Stainless Steel / Copper
Warranty: Unlimited guarantee covers any manufacturing defect
Compatible Stovetops: Induction, Electric Coil, Gas, Ceramic
PROS
CONS
You stand behind Apple because you know they deliver. Guess who else knew how to craft innovative products through simplicity? Richard Sapper. He is the italian based designer behind Alessi Espresso Maker 9090. One of the best stainless steel moka pots with a timeless design that gets your coffee ready within 5 minutes.
This moka pot is constructed of 18/10 mirror polished stainless steel, it is durable, elegant and can be used decoratively in any kitchen. This is one of the sturdiest moka pots from top to bottom we have ever reviewed. We are confident that this moka pot will last you a very long time, and if you ever had the pleasure of holding this in your hands you will quickly understand why.
In terms of functionality, the 9090 uses an innovative locking mechanism that provides an airtight seal between the top and bottom chamber. This is unlike other Moka pots that use a screw-in mechanism that may leak over time. Although the handle can get hot at times, because it is made of copper, heat also dissipates quickly. The wide base allows for maximum heat intake and better stability. The tall gasket body ends with an anti-drip spout and a clever latch for opening and closing the lid.
The Alessi 9090 is the cream of the crop of stovetop espresso makers, which reflected in its price tag. It is meticulously designed with a balance in form and function. If you are a coffee lover and looking for a buy-it-for-life stainless steel Moka pot, the Alessi 9090 will not disappoint.
6. GROSCHE Milano Stainless Steel Stovetop Espresso Maker – Value Pick
Features:
Capacity: 6 or 10 Cups
Material: 18/8 Stainless Steel
Warranty: 1 Year
Compatible Stovetops: Induction, Electric Coil, Gas, Ceramic
PROS
CONS
GROSCHE Milano Stainless Steel stovetop espresso maker is another best stainless steel Moka pot worth looking into. It sports a matte black top (non-chipping), satin finish boiler, and an elegantly curved handle. As you can guess, its classic looks are indeed endearing.
Looks aside, this Italian inspired espresso maker is ready to brew coffee for you with the smoothest flavor possible. It is available in two sizes – 6 and 10 cups.
Another great feature of GROSCHE Milano Stainless Steel stovetop espresso maker is its compatibility with many heat sources. You can have it on an electric coil stove, induction cooker, propane, and gas stove. This Moka pot has a non-drip spout, durable steel hinges and is dishwasher safe. Now you understand why the GROSCHE Milano ranks as one of the best stainless steel stovetop espresso makers. In fact, if you are looking for a top-quality coffee brewer without an excessive price tag, this is it.
Tip: Always keep your pot clean. Rancid stains from previous coffee would make your next cup of Joe bitter, which is bad. Secondly, when screwing the top to the bottom, hot water heats up the container. So always have a kitchen towel at hand to hold with it as you lock the two parts together.
Things to Consider Before You Invest in a Stainless Steel Moka Pot
With so many stovetop espresso makers on the market, you want to make sure you consider all the different options available before you decide on one.
We put together a list of things to consider so you will be well prepared when you go shopping for your stainless steel moka pot:
Stovetop Compatibility
There are a wide variety of stovetops and they include gas, ceramic, electric coils, and induction cooktops. Generally speaking, most stovetop moka pots will work with the majority with the exception of induction.
Not all moka pots will work with induction stovetops. So if you own an induction cooktop, make sure the stainless steel moka pot you purchase will be compatible with induction.
Note: We made sure to include stovetop capability with each of our Moka pot reviews, so if you missed this information. Make sure to scroll back up to double-check.
Durability
In general, a moka pot should last a long time and ideally a lifetime. However, there are a few things can help determine how long it will stick around. The first one is usually the price. A cheaper moka coffee maker can be a godsend when you are working with a limited budget. But the kicker is, it might not last very long.
A fairly durable coffee maker doesn’t leak, is rustproof, and is built with sturdy materials. So what’s the catch? Price. Expect to spend $75-$200 for a quality moka pot built to last.
“But I don’t see the reason for spending $75+ on an espresso maker”
Well, it goes without saying that a top-quality coffee maker consists of the safest material. Unless you are ready to fix broken handles very often and catch the taste of rust in your coffee, then we suggest you spend a little more.
Special Note: It’s actually possible to get a reliable stainless Moka pot on a budget. The Godmorn Stovetop Italian Coffee Maker is the most affordable on our list and is a great choice if you are looking for reliability on a budget.
Place of Manufacture
“If I can’t have an Italian espresso maker, then there’s no point in buying one”
This is a common sentiment among coffee connoisseurs.
Truthfully, Italy makes some of the best stainless steel moka coffee pots. However, if the tag reads ‘Made in China,’ the price is likely to be super competitive but the quality may sufferr.
The Alessi Espresso Maker 9090 one of the best stainless steel moka that is still designed and manufactured in Italy.
Quantity
Moka coffee pots come in sizes. If you brew solo often, a single-cup-at-a-time brewer will do.
If you live with your family and have guests often, choose a moka pot that can prepare more than 1 cup at a time. It can get annoying having to repeat the brewing process multiple times for a group.
Almost all of the stovetop espresso makers we reviewed come in various sizes. We put together a handy chart to help you decide the amount of cups you will need from your stainless steel moka pot.
Note: Espresso cups are not measured the same as standard measuring cups. In addition, not every manufacturer follows a standardized cup size as well (make sure to look at the advertised ounces). In general, one espresso cup measures 2oz.
| Espresso Cup Size | Liquid in Ounces | Liquid in Milliliters |
| 1 Cup | 2 oz | 59 ml |
| 2 Cups | 4 oz | 118 ml |
| 4 Cups | 8 oz | 237 ml |
| 6 Cups | 12 oz | 354 ml |
| 8 Cups | 16 oz | 473 ml |
| 10 Cups | 20 oz | 590 ml |
Safety
There are two core safety features on any best stainless steel moka pot; safety valve and an insulated handle. If by any chance the pot misfires, the safety valve will spill out coffee to release pressure buildup.
Tip: It is always wise to point the moka pot safety value away from you incase the safety value goes off and releases the built up pressure
An insulated handle doesn’t absorb heat and this makes it possible to remove the coffee moka pot maker from the stove without burning your fingers.
Conclusion
As we wrap this up, we understand that it can be a challenge to pick a good moka coffee maker. With newer models popping up and promising the brewed coffee, it’s easy to find yourself disappointed.
In this article, we debunked some of these myths and listed the best stainless steel Moka pots for brewing amazing coffee at home. Out of all our reviews, we recommend the Bialetti Kitty-Italian Espresso Coffee Maker.
Why?
Because it comes with all the essential features that you need for brewing amazing coffee like stainless steel construction, quality safety value, and heatproof handle – all for an affordable. Furthermore, it lasts longer and strikes the right balance between quality and price.
If cost is not a concern, the Alessi Espresso Maker 9090 should also make it on to your shortlist. The build quality is unrivaled and if you are looking for the best of the best, this is it.
If there is any other solid Stainless steel Moka pot we have forgotten, feel free to share with us in the comment section below. Happy drinking
Frequently Asked Questions
Are aluminum Moka pots safe?
At high heat, aluminum moka pots can leech metallic flavour and contaminate the quality and taste of your coffee. It is quite the conversational topic whether it is completely safe or not to use aluminum for moka pots. What we do know is there are studies that show the associated health risk with using aluminum for a prolonged period.
We are not health experts, but we do strongly believe that the benefits of stainless outweigh the potential health risks of aluminum. There are so many great stainless steel Moka pots available now on the market that there is really no reason to use aluminum for brewing espresso.
Is Moka pot coffee as strong as espresso?
Moka pot coffee is as strong but not stronger than espresso. This is because espresso machines work at very high pressure, almost 5-10 times of a Moka pot. However, Moka coffee is far more potent than regular drip coffee and that from French presses.
Can a Moka pot explode?
Yes, a moka pot can explode if you use extremely fine coffee grounds. A super fine grind can block the filter perforations resulting in intense pressure that the safety valve cannot withstand. In the case of an explosion, you will sustain injuries from either the hot water or the flying pot pieces.
To avoid this, make sure to always use coarsely ground coffee and to not tamp down the grinds while in the basket.
Which is better, French press or Moka pot?
Both moka pot and French press can produce bold-tasting coffee and cost almost the same. However, there are a few significant differences in how they work.
Moka pots (aka stovetop espresso makers) brew stronger coffee because of their unique 3-panel construction. Boiling water percolates through coffee grounds and collects as coffee in the top section of the pot. Heat level and steam must be observed closely as they have a direct effect on the final outcome.
French press brews a full-bodied coffee through a precise steeping process. In this process, you cover coarsely ground coffee with (almost) boiling water and allow it to steep for a short time. During serving, a plunger is used to tamper the coffee sediments to the bottom so they don’t mix with the final extraction. It’s that simple.
When it comes to saving time, moka pot wins because you need roughly 10 minutes from preparation to clean up. With a French press, you’ll need roughly 15 minutes. As for the quality of coffee grounds, moka uses both pre-ground and coarsely ground while a French press uses the latter only.
So which is better between french press and moka pot? It depends on your preferences. If you want stronger coffee faster and are ready to learn then Moka pot coffee maker is for you. If you are after simplicity, and coffee that retains most of the aromatic oils and other flavors, then French press is for you.
Wondering which one we prefer?
Both (you didn’t see that coming, did you?).
Why?
Because each brewing method makes a very different cup and brings out different flavours. Variety is the spice of life and we treat our coffee equipment the same.
References
- Hernandez, M. A. (2020, August 7). A Brief History of Manual Brewing Methods. https://perfectdailygrind.com/2020/01/a-brief-history-of-manual-brewing-methods/.
- Health Risks of Aluminum Coffee Makers. Hunker. https://www.hunker.com/12003944/health-risks-of-aluminum-coffee-makers.
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