Best coffee machines according to redditors
We found 1,217 Reddit comments discussing the best coffee machines. We ranked the 260 resulting products by number of redditors who mentioned them. Here are the top 20.
We found 1,217 Reddit comments discussing the best coffee machines. We ranked the 260 resulting products by number of redditors who mentioned them. Here are the top 20.
The method the MC is using here is the coffee drip/pour over method. The glass heating containers on the left are the siphon coffee makers.
When you're picking up coffee as a hobby, remember that you're going to go through a lot of batches of coffee that aren't good until you master your technique. You're also going to go through a lot of beans which just don't have the taste you're looking for (these make great gifts for other people).
For online subscriptions, I recommend https://one.mistobox.com/
For good coffee equipment, I recommend checking here.
If you want to do it like in Leblanc, then go with pour over coffee equipment.
You'll want to get a gooseneck electric kettle such as the bonavita model shown here.
Why a gooseneck like the one in the screenshot above? The gooseneck shape is very useful for limiting the amount of water coming out of your kettle while also allowing you to be far more accurate with how you pour your water than over a standard kettle. This is very important in the pour over method as how you pour does determine the taste of your final product. I also recommend electric kettles because having precise temperature controls is very important with trying to figure out the exact temperature at which to make your coffee.
If you want the pour over coffee method, you'll need one of the drippers/filters here.
Pour over method requires precise aim to ensure a good cup of coffee. Here you go!
If you want to do it through the siphon coffee method, I recommend this.
People love a good cup of coffee and becoming a master of such a skill will make you well loved by your SO. Its also a great topic and skill to teach others.
Proper coffee is drank black without milk, sugar, or cream (though depending on your culture you may add milk and cream). The reason for this is that these extra ingredients are typically used to cover up the taste of bad coffee. If you get good coffee beans and treat them right, you will be fine. Make sure you're using filtered water as well as bad tap water will heavily alter your taste with extra "flavors" you aren't looking for.
Head over to /coffee subreddit and they'll get you hooked!
Coffee making, like tea, is a relatively cheap and easy hobby to pick up while also being useful and a great topic of conversation. Its a useful skill as well and an easy way to impress a date or friends, though if you really want to impress people, learn to cook. Learning to cook is NEVER a bad idea.
Also make sure to buy a good UV-coated and airtight container to store your beans.
Some extra guides if you want to be super serious about coffee. 1, 2, 3.
Hario V60+Filters, Bonivita Electric Kettle (or any goose neck kettle), a kitchen scale that reads in grams, a stop watch/timer, and some coffee. Done. If you have the extra money get an electric burr grinder, if not just have the roaster or wherever you buy the coffee pre-grind it for pour over.
edit: Added some Amazon links in so people can see prices.
Double the work for me, huh?
v60
filters
stovetop kettle
digital scale
grinder
mail order fresh beans
scale with timer
temperature controlled kettle or this one
electric grinder refurbished
single origin beans, maybe something like this, except find it from a local roaster who does a good job and can become your partner in producing your perfect cup
My (now) wife broke up with her keurig about 2 years ago. She went with the bonavita 5-cup. Immediately, just using pre-ground store bought coffee she was happier. She got the one with the timer, set it up at night and had 25oz (yeah 5 cups at 5oz is not a LOT of coffee) of hot, freshly brewed coffee when she woke up. Since she moved in, she's moved away from pre-ground and for a while I'd weigh out and grind the beans the night before. Then I left the country for a bit and she was going to just use up the rest of my beans but got used to weigh/grind and has stuck with that for about 9 months now.
I'd say, get something similar to that bonavita, maybe the 8-cup if you think you'll be making coffee for more than 2 people (EVER!) and just get peet's coffee from the store with the nearest "roasted on" date. They sell a variety of coffees blended from all regions and you can get a taste for different kinds of coffee if you want. If you just want coffee tasting coffee, get cafe domingo or major dickason blend are both really good traditional "coffee". If that's what you're happy with, stick with it. If you get into it, check out fancier bean selections, then an encore grinder, and a scale.
Wow. Its not "buy it for life", its "shit coffee for life".
How can you have broken a drip coffee maker by using it correctly? They're porcelain. You just put the coffee in the filter and pour in hot water and wait. There aren't any moving parts. I genuinely can't believe you've broken five.
While they do make traditional coffee machines with "IOT" functionality, IMO, in this story, the "coffee machine" is a vending machine. Most vending machines now have connectivity for remote maintenance, inventory monitoring, and payment processing.
Highly recommend the Bonavita BV1500TS. I use it every morning, and it's currently $63 on prime (from an original price of $140!!)
The Bonavita Immersion Dripper is made of porcelain, the only other thing the coffee touches is the silicone stopper.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00MFJX7P4/
Not only that but, despite this incredibly long and detailed explanation, making your coffee better is really easy. Any one of these changes will make an improvement. Do all of them and you might never bother going out for coffee again.
For 1 and 2, I'll admit that buying $110 in equipment just for your coffee is a lot, but both the drip maker and the grinder will last you for years and years and will give you better coffee the whole time. If it saves you from buying just one cup of coffee per week, it pays itself off in a year.
The others cost very little, and will make an improvement immediately.
this is one of 3 that SCAA has issued a Gold Cup Cert for home brewing. I'd recommend the Technivorm but its above your $ range.
http://www.amazon.com/Bonavita-BV1800TH-Coffee-Thermal-Carafe/dp/B005YQZNO8/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1376491713&sr=8-2&keywords=technivorm+coffee+maker
$12, just add filter, ground coffee, and water.
No moving parts, no running vinegar through it, no plugging it in, lasts forever, and likely makes a better cup than your Keurig or drip coffee maker.
Not a shill for Amazon I promise, but I think this is really all you need.
Hario V60 Ceramic Coffee Dripper, Size 02, White https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000P4D5HG/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_gXyzCbNQG9JHC
very inexpensive option just as good as anything else. Probably the only thing you want to make sure is that it's not plastic, but rather ceramic.
Hario V60 Coffee Dripper - 8-10$ - Very cheap drip style coffee maker. You set the dripper on top of your cup, put a filter in, and pour hot water (of course that's only a brief synopsis of the process). Very fast and easy way to make excellent coffee.
You're mixing serving temperature for espresso with brewing temperature for other methods. Almost all coffee is ideally brewed in a similar initial water temperature range. That would typically be around of 90-96°C, though it may be preferable to go a bit lower with some coffees. The INEI standard is 88°C ± 2°C, but very few decent cafes prepare espresso that way outside Italy.
A double espresso brewed with a group exit temperature of 93°C is in the low 70s once it's in a well-heated demitasse. Good commercial or home drip brewers like the Bonavita or Technivorm generally have brewed-in-carafe temperatures around 80-85°C, which drops further once the coffee is poured into a mug. There is a lot of heat loss from brewing to brew vessel to serving vessel.
The problem cafes have is that take-out customers often want their coffee unsafely hot in the cup so it will be the right temperature when they drink it 10-15 minutes later. This is particularly frustrating for milk drinks, because once you steam above 60°C it starts tasting scalded rathe than sweet. "Extra hot latte" would make a lot of third wave baristas cringe.
It’s apparently a coffee maker , and for being so unique, isn’t priced to badly really.
Grinder
>Capresso Infinity - $89
>
>or
>
>Hario Mini Mill Slim - $30 - If you don't mind hand-grinding your beans
Coffee Maker
>Aeropress - $23 - Balanced flavour, easy cleanup
>
>or
>
>Hario v60 - $19 - If you enjoy the process of preparing your coffee, and enjoy a brighter (more acidity) cup of coffee.
>
>or
>
>A french press - $20 and up - If you want to make more coffee at a time than the Aeropress, don't mind a "thicker" (more coffee particulate and oils in the cup) coffee, and are not opposed to having a little bit more clean-up.
You'll need a kettle for any of these brew methods; a programmable/temperature controlled kettle like this one ($95) is ideal for manual brew methods, but any kettle (and a thermometer if you'd like to get fussy) will do just fine.
Personally I would get the Capresso and the Aeropress if I were you. It's a very balanced and forgiving brew method that can make coffee a few different ways (eg. paper filter for a "brighter" cup, metal for a thicker one). Set aside the rest of your budget and find a good coffee roaster near you!
Hey, he's using a coffee siphon!
https://www.amazon.com/Mr-Coffee-Wifi-Enabled-Coffeemaker-BVMC-PSTX91WE/dp/B00LUFSSWG
If your husband likes coffee with milk and/or sugar, you just need a good coffee maker that doesn't make really bitter coffee. I've seen people recommend this Bonavita coffee maker.
Otherwise, good beans go a long way. You can get those from most coffee shops, so if there's one you like chances are they will sell you the same beans. They can grind it for you or if you want to step it up, you can get your own basic grinder for ~50$.
I use the Toddy system.
http://www.amazon.com/Toddy-T2N-Cold-Brew-System/dp/B0006H0JVW/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1458661773&sr=8-1&keywords=toddy
I believe he said in his most recent subscriber stream it was this:
Toddy Cold Brew System
Highly recommend the Toddy cold brew. Yeah, it's way more expensive than the Mason jar, but it holds a lot more and is also very easy to use.
This is not a straightforward answer. Sorry.
It really depends on what you want to get out of the cup:
I personally use a V60. The others are all fantastic, you really can't go wrong.
Hario Skerton: Baseline manual grinder
Baratza Encore: Baseline electric grinder
Hario v60
Kalita Wave
Clever Dripper
Pick a grinder, pick one of the pourover methods (or get a French Press) and filters, and you're set. You can get a gooseneck kettle if you want for a better pour.
This is the one that I got. Worth every penny. I only use it on weekends because it's a bit more involved than other methods, but I love it.
http://www.amazon.com/Bodum-Santos-Stovetop-Vacuum-34-Ounce/dp/B00005NCX5
https://www.amazon.com/Bonavita-BV1900TS-Carafe-Coffee-Stainless/dp/B00O9FO1HK
Solid coffee brewer.
If you'd rather have more automated things but still good quality, you could get:
Baratza Virtuoso ($259)
Bonavita 1900ts ($135)
And then you'd have ~$100 to spend on beans, filters, descaling powder (future maintenance), etc.
Some roasters:
And plenty more. There are even some roasters here on /r/coffee that you'll see promote their products in the weekly threads.
As /u/ttls- said, espresso is a different beast. You could almost get started, but might want to double up on that budget if you don't want to buy used and have to hand grind.
As far as drip coffee makers go, I really like my Bonavita 1900. It will make up to 40 ounces/~1200 ml.
I only know about this because I've seen it mentioned in other threads but the Bonavita 5 cup is at it's all time lowest price on Amazon. Only $64 compared to retail of $140.
​
https://www.amazon.com/Bonavita-One-Touch-Featuring-Thermal-BV1500TS/dp/B00SK5IXPQ
Can i be a hater for a second. You're better off asking for an independent grinder like this baratza and this drip machine if you're set on a top quality drip
the SCAA has a list of approved drip machines theyre going to be the best of the best for what you need. The biggest issues with most drip machines is evenness of the brew and temperature variability. Unfortunately im not aware of any good all in one solutions but i can whole hardheartedly recommend the baratza and the brewer can be open season
Toddy Maker.
https://www.amazon.com/Toddy-THM-Cold-Brew-System/dp/B0006H0JVW/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1538083255&sr=8-3&keywords=cold+toddy
​
I've had this for years. It works great and produces a concentrate that can be used several ways. The concentrate keeps well in the fridge up to two weeks.
Get a refurbished Vario with steel burrs, electric gooseneck kettle, and a V60 of your choice.
$324 - https://www.baratza.com/product/vario-refurb-with-steel-burr-set-installed/
$89 - https://www.amazon.com/Bonavita-BV382510V-Variable-Temperature-Gooseneck/dp/B005YR0F40
$7.99 - https://www.amazon.com/Hario-Plastic-Coffee-Dripper-Clear/dp/B001RBTSMM
Spend the remaining $80 on a scale, pack of filters, and some yummy coffee.
Look up Japanese coffee. Iced coffee ≠ cold brew. Maybe you need iced coffee, as /u/thecolbra stated.
What ratio of water to coffee are you using for cold brew? Some fines are normal, especially because the grounds you're buying are likely fine (the size of the grinds themselves). You can just filter it through a paper coffee filter if you wish to remove them.
Medium roast is between light and dark, essentially. Just the name for how long the coffee has been roasted.
I've had the Starbucks Iced Coffee you're talking about. I can't tell you exactly what to do to replicate it, but maybe try this:
Japanese iced coffee (essentially you brew coffee but use a mixture of ice and water to cool the coffee) + extra ice after it's done brewing + some heavy cream to taste + simple syrup (equal parts water/sugar) to taste.
I hate to tell you to buy another piece of gear if you aren't a big coffee drinker yet, but you can make Japanese iced coffee with a Hario V60-02 for cheap. Filters here.
This is just one idea--I'd see what others with more experience have to say first.
I have a Cuisinart Brew Central. I have had it for probably 6 years, it was given to me by my brother second hand and he had had it for a few years before that. It is the best coffee maker I have ever had. We love it so much that recently when my husband was cleaning the pot and it cracked we just got a new replacement pot, because there no way we are replacing this workhorse.
Edit to add: I have extremely hard water, I have never run anything through this thing to clean it, though I do change the filter in the water tank about once a month, they are like $10 for something like 36 of them on amazon.
Here's a quick howto
This is the cold brewing rig I use. It's fairly inexpensive and the filter can be washed and reused forever (as far as I can tell). For your first time, of course, I recommend you improvise something instead of spending money.
It's pretty sturdy glass, but regardless, it's glass and it's relatively tall. I'd wager that unless you guys are playing catch with it, you'll be fine, but if there's many rowdy nights, I'd steer clear of it and get something like a plastic V60 instead.
Plus, they are $7.39 on Amazon right now.
One example configuration:
Ring Stand. $22
500 ml Separatory Funnel $31
500 ml flask $6
2xRing Support $10
Hario Dripper - $8
Which totals to $75 before shipping. Mine is slightly different. You can spend less money if you already have some sort of filter. You can buy a shorter ring stand for cheaper, just look closely at the measurements of the items you buy. Mine is only 18", but I wish I bought a longer one.
Edit: ok, so apparently there are similarly priced full setups on Ebay. Shop around!
http://www.amazon.com/Glass-Stovetop-Coffee-Siphon-Syphon/dp/B002CVTKW4/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1393865731&sr=8-1&keywords=vacuum+coffee
http://www.amazon.com/Cuissential-Manual-Coffee-Grinder-Ceramic/dp/B008YK3IUM/ref=sr_1_9?ie=UTF8&qid=1393865405&sr=8-9&keywords=coffee+mill
What about extending that budget by $30 and getting one of the ones on this list? I can personally vouch for Behmor's customer service, but not their brewer.
Moccamaster $309
Behmor $130
Kitchenaid $144
Kitchenaid $141
Bonavita $130
Bonavita $144
OXO $200
OXO $300
Wilfa $190
Bunn $130
Cuisinart $168
If you search the sub, you'll find a lot of office threads. Most people end up recommending the Bonavita maker, as it reaches proper temperature, yet is a conventional electric coffee maker.
Pods will be unacceptable.
The cheapest you could do to make "good" coffee would be to get a Bonavita BV1800. They are about 150 or so online and then get a Baratza encore refurbished for about 100.
that is the PC answer on this sub.
In my opinion if you want a good (not great) coffee. Get the Bonavita but then grind your beans fresh (even if that is a blade grinder). Burr grinders are really essential if you want a great cup of coffee but it seems that it isn't too essential to you.
ps. i think mcd's coffee is the best non-third wave coffee out there
Edit: http://www.amazon.com/Bonavita-BV1800TH-Coffee-Thermal-Carafe/dp/B005YQZNO8/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1415508290&sr=8-1&keywords=bonavita
it's actually 130!
Brutally honest answer: not worth your time and your money to make this work because you wont ever get the results you want.
More informative answer: The amount of extraction time during the brewing of a K-Cup is not enough to properly get the full flavor of the coffee. Additionally you have no control over water amount or grind amount. When I had a Keurig I bought one of the reusable holders and despite it saying 2Tbsp I could barely fit 1 1/4Tbsp. The most control you have is the water temperature and even then the temperature is not ideal. Also Keurig's are kind of junky, I had one fail after a year and the replacement was acting up within two months. No matter the grind, temp, bean, etc the coffee will always come out under extracted and not enjoyable.
90% of this sub hate keurigs, myself included, but we often do understand the appeal of them. However you need to be aware with that appeal comes major drawbacks like your experiencing now. They are meant entirely as a no frills way of making coffee for people who just want a cup of a coffee.
This would be my recommendation: If you like the appeal of a no frills coffee setup but want to experiment with different beans then I would consider selling the Keurig to a friend or family member. I would use that money to pick up a higher quality drip machine and a hand grinder. If you don't like the idea of using a hand grinder than maybe consider buying a Baratza Encore but it will cost more (FYI watch the Baratza site, every Thursday they restock the refurbs store so you could get a deal).
and cleaning. ugh grounds. i switched back to a Drip but I use the behmor item-- it heats the entire volume of water to the ideal brewing temperature and only then brings it in contact with the grounds. A wonderfully customizable unit that produces coffee as good as my french press but without the sediment.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00PKEYY8U/
That drip station is indeed pretty, but with that distance between the dripper and your cup/mug, you're probably going to have quite the mess of splashes and splatters to clean up afterwards.
If you're really looking to improve your coffee and not just decorate the counter, I'd start with a simple plastic V60-02 for the dripper. For the grinder, since you're already contemplating spending ~90 USD, why not bump it up another $25 and get a Knock Aergrind; it'll be a significant step up in grind quality from the ones you listed.
I subscribe to simpler is better on coffee makers. I use the Bonavita BV1900TS, it just has an on/off switch, it can be used with chemex pour overs, has a bloom option, it brews at the right temperature, and has a thermal carafe that keeps it hot for hours. It gets a lot of use and it tastes good every time, couldn’t be happier.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00O9FO1HK/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_HpJCCb1EDG9X8
I have the OXO Barista brain 9 cup coffee maker. It is SCAA certified as well.
This is totally worth the investment. All you need is ground coffee and water:
http://www.amazon.com/Toddy-T2N-Cold-Brew-System/dp/B0006H0JVW/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1372607856&sr=8-1&keywords=toddy+cold-brew
You get about 10oz of coffee concentrate that you can mix with milk or just ice water. I've only ever mixed it with milk, but you use about 1 part coffee concentrate for 3 parts milk (25% extract, 75% milk). You can mix sugar or sweetener but I never use sweetener.
You can also use the extract in hard drinks. Adding a bit of rum to an iced coffee is amazing.
EDIT: Forgot Link
$150 is a good amount really, much more generous than other people who are like "I have $30, how do I make cafe-grade espresso at home???"
My list for you:
I won't explain WHY these are really good kits for getting started with, you can just search on this sub and there will be hundreds of articles on that.
And I should stress again, good beans are important. As a Starbucks Barista I am 100% coughing up to the fact that most of our coffee's are charcoal. Use them if you like them, but if you can get something better then you should really be doing so.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B001RBTSMM/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1525805689&sr=8-1&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_QL65&keywords=v60+plastic+02&dpPl=1&dpID=51deR8gQ7pL&ref=plSrch
Actually, $6.21
There is and it is awesome:
http://www.amazon.com/Toddy-T2N-Cold-Brew-System/dp/B0006H0JVW/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1341951225&sr=8-1&keywords=toddy
(I know it is not exactly the same, but it is very cheap and does a great job)
Butting in uninvited to say I have a Toddy which tastes absolutely amazing. Once brewed it's a coffee concentrate that lasts up to two weeks in the fridge.
Hario Coffee Mill Slim Grinder
Beehouse Dripper
or
Hario 02 Dripper
or
Bonavita #2 Dripper
or any other pour-over device you like.
And cone filters from the supermarket for 3 or 4 bucks.
I'd recommend going with the beehouse or bonavita if you don't have a pouring kettle due to the slightly more restrictive nature.
If you want to go quick and minimalist, with little prep time and clean-up, a Hario pour-over cone is hard to beat. You slip a filter in, add the grinds, slowly pour over hot water.. and presto, you have yourself a cup of coffee.
Don't really think it matters whether you choose plastic or porcelain.
V60 - http://www.amazon.com/Hario-VDC-02W-Dripper-Ceramic-Funnel/dp/B000P4D5HG/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1367811837&sr=8-1&keywords=hario+v60
Chemex - http://www.amazon.com/Chemex-Drip-Coffee-Carafe-Cup/dp/B0000YWF5E/ref=sr_1_1?s=home-garden&ie=UTF8&qid=1367811983&sr=1-1&keywords=chemex
Clever - http://www.amazon.com/ABID-CO-LTD-C-70888-Dripper/dp/B0047W70GY/ref=sr_1_1?s=home-garden&ie=UTF8&qid=1367812013&sr=1-1&keywords=clever+coffee+dripper
I feel like these are your best options.
Even cheaper than aeropress and just as good, but different, is a Hario V60. If you need a new grinder, I'd also recommend Hario.
Total outlay? $36 and change.
What electric kettle do you have? Does it have variable temperature controls and/or a gooseneck spout?
The main ways to improve your setup are a better grinder, better coffee beans, and possibly a better kettle (I'd say, in that order). The other thing to think about is trying out some other brew methods, at least so you can learn about the differences and find out what your preferences are.
If I had your setup and up to $200 available to improve it, I think I'd look for a refurbished Baratza Encore ($99), a $10 - $15 electric scale accurate to within 0.1g, a clear plastic Hario V60 for $6 (along with filters for another $6). That's around $125, leaving extra to try out some nicer coffee beans. For example, Happy Mug has good quality coffee for $11 - $13 per pound plus $3 shipping.
So I started with the Yama, but thought it would be a fun project to try to make something from scratch. Had to turn to chem glassware, which is a little pricey but I think looks cool. I used a separatory funnel, Buchner funnel, and Florence flask.
Glassware ended up costing about $83, and I used the ring stand we had in the science lab at school.
I'm about to pull the trigger on a Bonavita BV1800 8-Cup Coffee Maker No timer but it's better to grind right before you brew. I guess you can get an appliance timer.
I can't say enough good things about this one.
In order of importance, in my opinion. Now, while the grinder is pricey, it's very important to producing an exceptional cup. But I'd personally start lower grinder-wise to garner more appreciation for good grinders (unless budget ain't a concern, in which case go for it).
Lido E Grinder (all the Lido series grinders are back ordered I think)
V60 Dripper
Fino Pour Over Kettle
AWS Pocket Scale
[V60 filters (although I notice no difference between this and folded #4 filters that are much cheaper)]
(http://www.amazon.com/dp/B001U7EOYA/ref=twister_B00Q60WESO?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1)
Video on technique
Where I personally like getting beans, but there are a lot of places for that
You don't have to spend that much for good coffee.
You can get a pour over dripper for $12 on Amazon
100 filters for $6
Electric kettle for $12
Manual coffee grinder for $10
Digital scale for $10
That's $50 for gear, (you can probably pick up some of that even cheaper if you look around) and then you can spend what you want on beans. I'm really into Stumptown coffee right now, which is $18 for 12oz. but you can definitely go a little cheaper or a lot more expensive depending on your tastes.
You can spend as much as you want making coffee, but I haven't noticed a discernible difference between coffee from that setup and coffee from a $500ish setup. A large part of what makes a cup of pour over good is the skill level of the person pouring it, and there's no reason to spend more than $75-$100 on gear until you reach a point where you know for sure your bottleneck is your equipment. I've been making my own coffee this way (as well as french press and espresso) for a few years and I still don't feel like I need to upgrade.
EDIT: Ignore the scale I linked, refer to /u/throwswithfats comment below instead.
What you're looking for is the Bonavita Wide Base Porcelain Immersion Dripper, which is functionally just like the Clever, but it's mostly made of porcelain. Mostly. A lot less plastic than the Clever anyway.
Aeropress is great, and can be coaxed into making a very rough approximation of espresso (think strong, concentrated coffee) if you really want it. You can't make real espresso without investing $500 minimum on an espresso machine and grinder.
I'd recommend grabbing an Aeropress and a Hario Skerton grinder for like $50 total, unless you already have a decent burr grinder. Hang onto the rest of your budget for buying awesome coffee beans.
If you want real coffeehouse-type drinks without a significant investment, I'd recommend sticking to a coffeehouse.
Edit: If you want something more automatic, these are supposed to be great, but you'll still need a separate grinder: http://www.amazon.com/Bonavita-BV1900TS-Carafe-Coffee-Stainless/dp/B00O9FO1HK/
Considering getting an actual coffee maker instead of doing the clever dripper I've been using.
Right now I have my eye on the Behmor Brazen Plus. Seems to be the most controllable and least expensive SCA certified brewer.
Anyone have that one or another coffee maker that you love?
One of the many coffee makers I own is a quality drip coffee maker. It’s like a V60 pour over built into a drip coffee maker. And you’ll stay in budget. You won’t be disappointed. Enjoy!
OXO BREW 9 Cup Coffee Maker https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00YEYKK8U/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_tai_zLTHDb29QMTB6
Not OP, we buy my father-in-law a new coffee maker every couple of years. We've spend as little as $50 and as much as a couple thousand. Dude loves is coffee as impossible to buy for. The new model this year was inexpensive compared to the others, it is the OXO BREW 9 Cup Coffee Maker.
Looking back, the super fancy espresso, coffee, whatever machines all suck after about 3 months and are impossible to keep clean, but this one has been a home run from the first. Having the money to blow on a really expensive coffee maker is one thing, but having to live with one that could break the bank and sucks is another.
https://www.amazon.com/Bonavita-BV1901PW-Coffee-Brewer-Black/dp/B074JPZWYR/ref=sr_1_9?s=kitchen&ie=UTF8&qid=1520607001&sr=1-9&keywords=bonavita+coffee+maker
I think this is the best value in auto drip. No thermal carafe (just glass) but also has the improved grounds holder and no pour issues of the old carafe.
The Bonavita is pretty popular, next choise would probably be the Technivorm Moccamaster.
I live in Finland, nearly everyone has a Technivorm in here, yet everyone drinks pre-ground coffee, it's kinda funny :).
Also link for Coffeegeeks drip machine consumer reviews, for more choises.
Best drip coffee maker I've ever owned: http://www.amazon.com/Bonavita-BV1800TH-Coffee-Thermal-Carafe/dp/B005YQZNO8
I also recommend an Aeropress http://www.amazon.com/Aerobie-AeroPress-Coffee-Espresso-Maker/dp/B0047BIWSK/ref=sr_1_1?s=home-garden&ie=UTF8&qid=1394161699&sr=1-1&keywords=Aeropress
A cheap gooseneck kettle and a plastic Hario V60. You will need filters too.
If you want to spend a little more this set has it all.
Keep in mind that a scale is extremely helpful too. If you don’t want to spend the money on a grinder, which everyone is going to recommend, just get pre-ground, quality coffee. I recommend HappyMug online. Happy Mug makes great coffee and will grind it for you before shipping. They also have an awesome little timer for $5 that is helpful at first If you’re using your phone for recipes and stuff.
That's awesome. I picked up this. https://www.amazon.com/Bonavita-Wide-Porcelain-Immersion-Dripper/dp/B00MFJX7P4
It makes a single cup and uses easily accessible filters. There is no need to wait for a bloom yadda yadda. You get your grind size right, pour in water off a boil, stir and wait 3.5 minutes, and it drains into your choice of drinking vessel. I used it today, and I love it. Definitely need to dial in the drink size but besides that very low maintenance. You could also get the clever, but I think this has a better shelf life since it's porcelain vs plastic.
People see this as a good medium between chemex and french press in terms of the body you get out of your coffee.
brew at home, I am saving around $20 a week between my wife and I getting coffee every morning.
This coffee maker is going on 3 years now
https://www.amazon.com/Bonavita-BV1900TS-Carafe-Coffee-Stainless/dp/B00O9FO1HK/ref=sr_1_1?s=kitchen&ie=UTF8&qid=1498833036&sr=1-1&keywords=bonavita
The Bonavita drip brewer ($140) is one of the very few SCAA certified home brewers out there. It will make excellent coffee.
A good cheap burr grinder is the Hario Mini Mill ($20). It's a hand grinder and that entails a bunch of extra effort and time, but it's a fraction of the cost of comparable electric burr grinders. If you want a decent electric grinder, a good place to start would be a refurbished Baratza Encore ($99).
The Encore + Bonavita combination will make really good coffee and won't really be much more work than a combo grinder/brewer. However these things are obviously expensive, probably more than anyone who isn't looking to get seriously into coffee should consider. Find what works best for you.
Honestly all the all-in-one makers are bad. I would recommend something like a bonavita 1900ts for $135 and a baratza encore for $130 or bodum bistro burr grinder from target for $50 (if you can find it).
If you increase your budget substantially a technivorm moccanaster grand plus the same grinder is perfect for a small office
If you are looking for an automatic coffee maker this one seems to get recommended often. I have never used one myself though.
https://www.amazon.com/Bonavita-BV1500TS-Carafe-Coffee-Stainless/dp/B00SK5IXPQ/ref=sr_1_6?s=kitchen&ie=UTF8&qid=1517883812&sr=1-6&keywords=bonavita+coffee+maker
For a grinder this one is recommended often as a basic electric model. If you want to save some money and don't mind a little effort than a hand grinder like the Hario might be a good option.
https://www.amazon.com/Baratza-Encore-Conical-Coffee-Grinder/dp/B007F183LK/ref=sr_1_4?s=home-garden&ie=UTF8&qid=1517884047&sr=1-4&keywords=baratza+encore+grinder
https://www.amazon.com/Hario-Skerton-Ceramic-Coffee-Grinder/dp/B01LXZACFB/ref=sr_1_3?s=home-garden&ie=UTF8&qid=1517884146&sr=1-3&keywords=hario+skerton+pro
Grinder: Baratza Encore - you can get one at Happy Mug (free shipping and you get a free pound of beans with it).
Machine: Bonavita BV1500TS - you can find it on Amazon for less than $80 at the moment.
https://www.baratza.com/product/encore-refurb/
Bonavita 5-Cup One-Touch Coffee Maker Featuring Thermal Carafe, BV1500TS https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00SK5IXPQ/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_8E4OBbB4HEW78
Close enough.
I recently purchased the Bonavita Metropolitan BV1901PW, and am really pleased with it. I've occasionally seen it a little lower, but it's currently $95 at Amazon, and totally worth it, in my opinion. A 6-cup pot with 55g of coffee tastes and looks very close to what I get out of my Chemex, for way less effort.
I am using a Bodum Vacuum Coffee Maker, and I've got it locked in pretty nicely.
A few things to consider:
It's a neat contraption, and it produces a lighter coffee overall. I had a few friends try it, and they preferred it black over anything else. Kinda cool!
A Toddy is only about $30 and is perfect for making cold brewed coffee. You brew 12oz and it will usually last me about a week.
http://www.amazon.com/Toddy-T2N-Cold-Brew-System/dp/B0006H0JVW/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1417011307&sr=8-3&keywords=toddy
This is my every day coffee. This is what I use to make it. I've been doing this for three or so years now. Best damn coffee, and everyone gets the strength they want.
I think you get the best home results with a pour over, which is just a cone that holds a filter over your cup while you pour water in slowly. You can get the whole setup for about $100. $45-55 for a hand grinder (Porlex or Hario), $20 for the cone (V60), plus V60 filters from Amazon and a kitchen scale that measures in grams. You'll need a kettle with a fine spout too but you don't truly need the special goose neck kettles they sell.
You can find youtube videos of how to do the brewing but basically you use a lot of beans per cup (25g), pre-wet them, then add water slowly in phases up to a full cup (360g).
As for beans, Stumptown is a good bet for premium beans if you're mail ordering.
Making espresso at home is much harder and takes expensive equipment to get right so stick with the shops for awhile.
Swap your areopress for a vac-pot with a cloth filter.
We have this Cusinart one - I really like that it's programable, it filters your tap water for you (with charcoal filters), and you can decide how long the burner stays hot. And it's Cuisinart! We've had it for over a year now and it works great.
If you like Cuisinart and your family just wants a simple mechanism, I'd go with this. It's way below your budget, but it's really good for a simple cup of coffee. My parents are similar to you, and they've had this machine for years. Just make sure you clean it after every use! People don't seem to clean their coffee machines...
​
It also has a timer that you can adjust to brew automatically, which I found useful when I had work at 6am.
Look at the Toddy. It's not a push button but it's a dump water, dump grounds and then wait kind of operation. You do have to deal with the used grounds when it's finished but it makes a concentrated coffee that you mix with water, milk, etc and a carafe will usually last me about 2 weeks.
https://www.amazon.com/Toddy-T2N-Cold-Brew-System/dp/B0006H0JVW/
My sister bought me a Toddy for a wedding present. It makes a coffee concentrate and its perfect for iced coffee.
I used the Toddy system, but that's just because it was given to me by a friend. It worked out pretty well, but you can easily re-create the setup with a large mason jar, just pour through a pour over cone at the end.
Another tip which may seem obvious but I didn't think about at the time: don't be afraid to do some test brews before committing to a batch of coffee. I had never brewed coffee this way before and it came out a tad over-extracted, which came through in my stout.
I've done both. From a process standpoint, not a huge difference.
Coarse grind, leave it for a bazillion hours, filter, enjoy.
Toddy is great because it's significantly more capacity. My French press will produce about half to 65% of the concentrate as the Toddy. I get about a literish of concentrate when all is said and done (you add like 7 cups of water, so 1.6 liters). Compared with my 1L French Press which gets me just over a half a liter.
It's also super easy to use and clean. Let it brew, pull the plug into the decanter that's fit for the top.
looks like it's $28 on amazon which is the lowest I've ever seen it. If you're gonna jump, do it now!
http://www.amazon.com/Toddy-T2N-Cold-Brew-System/dp/B0006H0JVW
I assume you mean this one. Does that provide any benefits over simply making cold brew in a french press? (which is how I've been doing it)
Gloria Jean's several years ago sold what they called iced toddy which they made in a cold brew system. I bought one myself and duplicated the taste exactly. I was never able to get the right taste from normal hot brewed coffee. Their cold brew stuff tasted more like an iced latte to me.
Iced coffee is really easy, albeit a long process >12 hrs, to make, but the concentrate is good for a couple weeks, so you don't have to do it very often. All you need is coffee beans, a grinder, a jar/container, and a fine strainer or something like this if you want the simplicity.
Oh...the Toddy (sorry I didn't link earlier, was on mobile) is not a pour over system either. You put in grounds and water and it steeps at room temperature for 12-24 hours, then filters out the grounds to produce a coffee concentrate. Of course you can DIY cold brew without any of this, but the Toddy is just a really convenient system for it. A lot of coffee shops use an industrial-size Toddy system.
I have tried pitchers like the one you linked, but I've found that because it's not truly immersing the coffee in the water it makes a lot weaker of a cold brew, so you get less mileage for your amount of grounds, if that makes sense.
If we want to turn this into an /r/frugal thread about the absolute cheapest way to make coffee - you can get a cold brew setup at home for less than $50 (Toddy is "the original"; OXO makes a similar system). Cold brew tends to be more forgiving of low-quality beans than hot brewed, and the resulting concentrate can be kept in the fridge for at least a week before it goes bad.
I use two cold brew bags with this cold brew toddy system instead of the felt filters that come with it (they tend to clog). A pound of course ground coffee and it's delicious. Unfortunately everyone at work is now addicted to my coffee.
<--- Barista here! I second the Moka suggestion. Unless you have thousands to shell out on a shop quality espresso machine, this is the next best thing. A good grinder is key, and burr grinders are best. This is mine. Also, steaming wands on cheaper machines never work very well and are horrible to clean. All you really need to get that nice foam easily is one of these nifty milk frothers.
Most retail coffee "machines" aren't built to last and make mediocre drinks. Low-tech almost always produces a superior tasting beverage. I have a Chemex(for normal coffee), a french press(for stronger coffee), a Toddy(for iced coffee) and a Moka(for espresso).
Also, if you can, seek out a roaster that is local to your mother. They will direct you to their best beans for espresso, and it will most likely be very fresh. All the roasters I have worked with are always happy to help customers troubleshoot and tweak to their tastes as well. It's a really worthwhile relationship for a coffee enthusiast.
So, Moka, burr grinder, frother wand, a pound of beans, and you're set. She'll love it. If you have some extra cash, and she likes normal coffee, throw in that Chemex. 10 times better than an auto-drip, and uses less beans as well. :)
Get one of these Toddy Cold Brew things. Starbucks brews their cold brew in a larger one of these and it is awesome at home. Makes a cold brew concentrate, so you cut it with water when you are wanting a glass of it, so you can adjust how strong you want it. It is worth every penny and makes it a simple process. I let it brew anywhere from 16-24 hours and it is always great. Can buy cheaper beans for it too, which is nice.
A Siphon brewer, one of many newly popular coffee brewing methods. I'm interested in trying it for tea as well.
Found it at Amazon for $72.50.
This one's about $67 on Amazon, assuming you're States-side. A bit pricy, especially if you compare to your regular drip-carafe coffee machines like Mr. Cawfee or Blank and Deckart, which are like, $25 each.
But value is subjective. I'm certainly saving for one myself (prices in India are even crazier)
Thank you that makes a huge difference being in daylight. I have a coffee syphon that uses methanol but inside you can see the flame well like in the first part of the video.
All of my kratom is sold STRICTLY not for human consumption but this is what I use to make my super potent Kava tea.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000IKLQZK/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o02_s00?ie=UTF8&amp;psc=1
You can thank me later ;)
i never really liked coffee from the drip coffee machine, if you want to venture into the coffee world a bit, i suggest getting:
V60
and filter
(youtube the instructions)
and grinder
or maybe french press....
a little more work to make your coffee in the morning, but its worth it
>I thought about a pour over, but I don't really know what I'm getting myself into
Honestly, not that much. It's pretty straight forward. A Chemex produces a fantastic cup, and would only really require you get a gooseneck kettle. Ditto if you go the v60 route. Bonavita has a couple, either temperature controlled or not. Other wise Hario kettle would also work.
Regardless, take a look here at Brew Methods. It has summaries on a variety of brew methods, from chemex to other. May give you some ideas.
>I don't want to spend a ton of money,
Depends on what "a ton of money" is to you, but:
> would a chemex be a better investment?
Yes, imho. Buy a cheap gram scale, a gooseneck kettle, and a chemex/v60. You'll be very pleased with the results.
Not OP but:
Grinder
Coffee
Brew_Method
Brewing_Gear
Edit: I should note that these beans are roasted. Roasting your own can be a whole new game. Also you will want to get a Water_kettle
Is this what you mean when you say a V60?
You could do a pretty awesome /r/EDC
The v60 is $15 on Amazon right now. This is the lowest I have seen it at. It is worth the $15 for sure.
http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B000P4D5HG/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?qid=1453744816&amp;sr=8-1&amp;pi=AC_SX118_SY170_QL70&amp;keywords=v60
That's a shame. Would you like to try it again with the V60? We wouldn't be able to give it away for free as part of this offer if you've already signed up on another offer but if you'd like to have another go (perhaps with a coffee you haven't tried yet) we can send you the kit for £5 with your next order, which is what we're currently offering all our members.
If you're at all curious, try it, it's a good deal! Email [email protected] and the customer service peeps will be able to sort it out for you.
About a year and half ago I went from 0-60 with this setup:
http://www.amazon.com/Hario-VKB-120HSV-Buono-Drip-Kettle/dp/B000IGOXLS
http://www.amazon.com/Hario-Coffee-Dripper-V60-Clear/dp/B001RBTSMM/ref=pd_sim_k_6
http://www.amazon.com/Hario-Coffee-White-Filters-Brewer/dp/B001U7EOYA/ref=sr_1_1?s=home-garden&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1349906139&amp;sr=1-1&amp;keywords=hario+v60+filters
http://www.amazon.com/Hario-MSS-1B-Mini-Coffee-Grinder/dp/B001804CLY/ref=sr_1_2?s=home-garden&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1349906080&amp;sr=1-2&amp;keywords=hario+hand+grinder
http://www.amazon.com/Ozeri-Digital-Multifunction-Kitchen-Elegant/dp/B004164SRA/ref=sr_1_5?s=home-garden&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1349906101&amp;sr=1-5&amp;keywords=kitchen+scale
Here is a video I found about how it all works:
http://vimeo.com/34182806
The big thing is to use FRESH roasted beans (we're talking ~3 weeks old or less). If you are buying beans that don't have a date on em, try again. Hopefully there is a coffee shop around you that will sell their own roast (usually comes in a 12oz package). If not you can try the grocery store or order online (http://ceremonycoffee.com/ is a good start), it really depends on the city you live in.
I had always liked the aroma and taste of coffee in other things (ice cream specifically) but it wasn't until I got into beer that I really started to appreciate it. Hopefully this finds you well, feel free to send a message my way if you have any specific questions!
You could buy a cheap pourover cone and some filters. The only other thing you need is something to heat water in.
For making single serve coffee that's not crap in that price range, I'd consider one of the following grinders (Ordered according to my preference... the first is my favorite):
Combined with one of the following brewers (not really ordered... I could argue for any of these):
They're easy, cheap, and high quality. Any combination of these will get you a low-fuss cup in the morning, and if your friend uses good, freshly roasted beans, it'll be better than most shops can do.
For sheer price and ease of brew consistency, the plastic v60 comes in three forms: dripper only ($7-8), the V60 Decanter ($24), or the V60 Starter Kit ($20).
Depending on gift budget, you may also want to consider a gooseneck kettle if your boyfriend doesn't already have one.
I like coffee gear for aesthetics in addition to their function, though, so I have a couple of special Hario v60 drippers - a sky blue ceramic, and a Mandarin orange ceramic one. Obviously way more breakable than the plastic/metal ones, but I liked the looks of them way more.
I really like my Yama stovetop siphon, which runs about $35. The mechanics are the same, but you use your stove for the heat source. The 22oz model makes two American-sized cups of sweet, delicious coffee.
Do you mean something like this?
I can't answer your question but if you mean that sort of thing that's a really neat design and I'm gonna need one.
http://www.amazon.com/Yama-Glass-Maker-Straight-Black/dp/B004EBUZ1A
Oh hey, I'm doing WFH Friday too! My entire office fucking empties on Friday, last week I was literally one of the two people there.
Coffee talk? Coffee talk.
You need to get a chemex, for sure. It's probably the most forgiving pourover-style coffee maker. But if you're looking for outrageously easy tasty coffee, you could look into getting an automatic pourover machine, like the Bonavita coffee thingy.
I get a good coffee maker that uses cone shaped filters, keeps proper temperature for the water, and uses a shower head design rather than normal drip. The coffee comes out tasting great, and only requires grinding, wetting the filter, and turning on the machine.
If I am in the mood I use french press or my coffee maker can also function as a pour over if I am feeling extremely snooty.
EDIT: A good coffee maker isn't super expensive either. It is obviously more expensive than a Mr Coffee, but you pay for quality. http://www.amazon.com/Bonavita-BV1800TH-Coffee-Thermal-Carafe/dp/B005YQZNO8/
I don't own one, but the reviews are very poor. It's also very expensive. If you want something automatic I would look at a Technivorm or Bonavita.
I imagine premeasuring your beans/water the night before isn't an issue for you. In the morning, you could toss the beans into a decent electric grinder, and throw them into a good automated brewer. I still rely on a hand-mill and v60 for my daily needs, so I can't comment on anything except what I've experienced vicariously through the folks here on /r/coffee, but I imagine that would be a near fool-proof way of getting damn good coffee in the morning with minimal effort.
Edit: links.
I don't think you can get a good espresso machine at that price.
Does she like drip coffee? Because you can actually do pretty well for that much. The Bonavita is supposed to be really good.
Hmm, Tanor's copy is still $10.99.
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00JNZ7VNW?keywords=tanors&amp;qid=1453752343&amp;ref_=sr_1_1&amp;sr=8-1
I ordered one of these just now: http://amzn.com/B00JNZ7VNW Maybe I should cancel and go to Walmart. You think yours is nicer?
As much as people here hate it, I need one for a single cup brewer and alarm clock.
https://www.amazon.ca/Mr-Coffee-Wifi-Enabled-Coffeemaker-BVMC-PSTX91WE/dp/B00LUFSSWG
That's the closet I've found as of yet...
For the low, low price of $165!
I don't think there's another name for the Clever dripper, per se. There are other "single cup immersion drippers" like this one from Bonavita, but the Clever is probably the best known.
There ARE 2 versions and 2 sizes of the Clever, though. Good comparison of the versions can be found here.
I'm not the best to answer on material - so hopefully someone else chimes in, but... I'd point primarily to the affect on heat. Ceramic is going to hold heat a little better than plastic or metal... but I wouldn't let that alter your decision if you're looking to buy a single cup brewer. u/SirGeekaLot 's run down of filters and taste would be where I would focus while trying to choose one.
Good luck!
Not sure what your budget is, but the Bonavita is the best coffee maker you can get that's just an on-off maker and has what you described. I haven't seen any cheapo mechanical switch makers that have thermal carafes before, the vast majority of makers are digital programmable now. This is the closest for a cheapo without a carafe (edit: or this).
The cheapest reasonable set up for roommates who all drink lots of coffee would be something like this:
&#x200B;
&#x200B;
That puts you at 180 for your grinder and machine, which isn't bad.
&#x200B;
For beans, Happy Mug is as cheap as you'll get for super freshly-roasted. Based on what you're saying you'd probably be just fine with a blend. Order two or three different ones and figure out what you like! $9 per 12 oz bag. The beans are nearly always roasted the same day they ship.
&#x200B;
It sounds like you aren't interested in taking on coffee as a "hobby" and instead just are looking for a better cup. Something like I recommended would be the cheapest and least "enthusiast" route to drinking much, MUCH better coffee than you are now.
I have this coffee maker, Bonavita BV1900TS 8-Cup Carafe Coffee Brewer, Stainless Steel https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00O9FO1HK/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_Jhwtyb0S7Z7AA hooked to a idevice switch.
Insulated thermos carafe. I make 8 cups at 6am and have several hot half mugs (and pour out the cold remainders and top up with hot) throughout the day.
Edit: my machine http://www.amazon.com/Bonavita-BV1900TS-Carafe-Coffee-Stainless/dp/B00O9FO1HK
This guy has been a work horse for me. Bought it for the same reasons as you want to. Dial in the water to coffee ratio and the grind size and you have damn good coffee without much thought.
http://www.amazon.com/Bonavita-BV1900TS-Carafe-Coffee-Stainless/dp/B00O9FO1HK
When you say you both have 4-5 mugs a morning, is that together or each? And are you having what coffee makers call a cup of coffee (5-6 oz), or are you having something like a 12-20 oz mug?
I have this coffee maker but if you're both drinking 60 oz of coffee, it's not going to make enough. It's not programmable, but there's only 1 button. It takes about 5-6 minutes to make a full pot, which is 40 oz. I like the coffee from this considerably more than from standard drip machines.
On the weekend, I'll make french press or use an aeropress, but this is much easier and faster for during the week.
Here is the Wirecutter's list of "best" coffee makers.
I think the Behmor Brazen Plus would fit the bill. The water is heated in the holding reservoir, which is metal. But the thing that holds the filter and grounds is plastic.
I have it, and I love it.
Checkout the Bonavita 1500TS
. Brews like 25 oz or less.
https://www.amazon.com/Bonavita-One-Touch-Featuring-Thermal-BV1500TS/dp/B00SK5IXPQ
Bonavita 5-Cup One-Touch Coffee Maker Featuring Thermal Carafe, BV1500TS https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00SK5IXPQ/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_zUo8BbK77VP79
I believe it's approved by the Specialty Coffee Association. Meaning that it fulfills all the basic requirements to brew an excellent cup of coffee. And if the cup doesn't taste good you won't need to investigate the brewer!
$750 is alot of money to spend if they only drink coffee out of tradition than for taste. For that kind of reasoning i wouldnt spend all the budget!
I agree with the comments about buying baratza encore grinder. Those are reliable and well in the budget. For the coffee machine i would recommend the [bonavita dripper]
(https://www.amazon.ca/Bonavita-BV1500TS-Carafe-Coffee-Stainless/dp/B00SK5IXPQ/ref=sr_1_4?keywords=bonavita&amp;qid=1559008848&amp;s=gateway&amp;sr=8-4) easy to use, realiable, beautiful chrome. Not bad,not the best,but better than the average coffe brewers. See it in action And buy some good coffee with the rest of the money.
Thank you. I started experimenting a couple years ago before school started, thinking I’d be all about the hands-on method because I’m a tea snob and am picky about proper looseleaf tea quality, brewing methods, and temperature. However, I didn’t realize that (for me, at least) making good coffee is way more complicated than making good tea. Now, with the demands of school, I need caffeine more than ever, but have no time to figure it out.
I live in the US, and my max budget is probably $500ish. I already have a Baratza Encore. I would also be interested in automatic regular coffee makers if you have a recommendation (budget $75ish), because a $500 espresso machine would be a Christmas present for me and I’d love to start making coffee again sooner than that. I think I’ve seen this one recommended on here, and might get it if it seems okay: Bonavita 5-Cup One-Touch Coffee Maker Featuring Thermal Carafe, BV1500TS https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00SK5IXPQ/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_RVoMDb5R0G098
I think to best answer this request, we'll need a bit more info. Are you ok with a manual grinder, or do you prefer an electric grinder? Do you want a drip brewer or a pour over set up? Are you looking to get into espresso? And, what is your actual budget in your local currency?
And now for a guess at what might work for you...
A [Melitta Plastic Pour Over Dripper](https://www.amazon.com/Melitta-Ready-Single-Coffee-Brewer/dp/B0014CVEH6/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1527536804&sr=8-1&keywords=mellita) $5 to $6 (a lot of grocery stores carry these in stock)
A box of #2 Cone filters at your local grocery store $2
If you want an automatic drip brewer, and you are making smaller amounts for just you, the [Bonavita 5 cup](https://www.amazon.com/Bonavita-BV1500TS-Carafe-Coffee-Stainless/dp/B00SK5IXPQ/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1527537674&sr=8-4&keywords=bonavita+brewer) is wroth a look. it runs about $66. I have the 8 cup for the wife and I and we love it.
Filters can be purchased, again, at your local grocery store for about $2.
[Brewista SmartPour Kettle w. Thermometer](https://www.amazon.com/Brewista-Variable-Temperature-Kettle-BKV12S02NA/dp/B01CFBBUVY/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1527537033&sr=8-1&keywords=brewista&#37;2Bsmart&#37;2Bpour&th=1) $40. There are cheaper ones, but I personally have this one and have loved it.
[Scale](https://www.amazon.com/Jennings-CJ-4000-Compact-Digital-Adapter/dp/B004C3CAB8/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1527537139&sr=8-1&keywords=Jennings+CJ4000) This is a must. $30
[Bratza Encore](https://www.amazon.com/Baratza-Encore-Conical-Coffee-Grinder/dp/B007F183LK/ref=sr_1_1_sspa?s=home-garden&ie=UTF8&qid=1527537371&sr=1-1-spons&keywords=baratza+encore&psc=1&smid=A302OQK4GZWXCC) Grinder is the default recommendation around here, and for good reason. It's high quality, and easily serviceable. New they run $139, but you can save $40 and pick up a [refurb](https://www.baratza.com/product/encore-refurb/) (still with the 1 year warrantee) for $99 direct from Baratza.
If you want a cheaper option, and don't mind a manual hand grinder, there are a few options, but the [Hario Skerton Pro](https://www.amazon.com/Hario-Skerton-Ceramic-Grinder-MMCS-2B/dp/B01MXJI90S/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1527537536&sr=8-1&keywords=hario+skerton+pro) is about the lowest cost / still decent quality grinders, grinder that most would recommend. It runs about $60, and personally, I'd spend the extra $30 on an Encore refurb.
Happy Mug Beans are a pretty great option. I really enjoy the Big Foot Espresso blend (despite it's name) as a pour over, and even like it in my drip brewer. The Inspirational Artist Blend is a great option too. But really just try them out and see what you like. Their bags (for 1lbs of whole beans) run $11 - $13
Hope that helps.
If you're actively shopping for one the Technivorm Mocchamaster is one of the best drip makers on the market:
http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B002S4DI2S
I've got one and it's as good as pour over while being a little more convenient, but I do end up using a french press more frequently.
hmm.. i already bought the 40oz. Technivorm Moccamaster KBT. It's for my wife and I. So. I don't think the Cup One would be efficient in the morning. I bought this one how can i tell if it has a manual lever?
Absolute best investment I've ever made:
https://www.amazon.com/Yama-Glass-Maker-Straight-Black/dp/B004EBUZ1A
I’m looking at a Yama, I’ve never seen a shop that doesn’t use this one. But I was also thinking of making my own by scavenging pieces
https://www.amazon.com/Yama-Glass-YAMCDM8SBK-Coffee-Technology/dp/B004EBUZ1A
Amazon:
Yama Northwest Glass 32-Ounce Cold Brew Drip Coffee and Tea Maker, Black, $268.00, 3 reviews 4.7 out of 5.0
Cold Drip Coffee and Tea Maker, 8-Cup, $240.57, 4 reviews 5.0 out of 5.0
An engineer would probably prefer a vacuum siphon coffee maker or a cold drip brewer. I wish I had a friend in college with one of those setups. Hell, I wish I had a friend now with one of those!
I used to use this as a cheap version:
http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/1Pc-Dutch-Coffee-Cold-Drip-Water-Drip-Coffee-Maker-Serve-For-8cups-NEW-/302090363056?hash=item4655fd20b0:g:tOcAAOSwCGVX7OBr
I want to get this
https://www.amazon.com/Yama-Glass-Maker-Straight-Black/dp/B004EBUZ1A/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1479942016&amp;sr=8-1&amp;keywords=yama
Otherwise you could get a Toddy:
https://toddycafe.com/toddy-cold-brew-system
Been using the Yama one for over 5 years now. Great cold brew plus a great conversation piece.
I don't really understand the method you're using to make cold brew but most of these concentrates are made with a cold brew slow dripper (like a Toddy or a Yama tower) to get an extremely high concentration of coffee in the water. That's how they're able to use a 1:1 dilution ratio.
Bonavita makes the best and cheapest auto drip that has the whole SCAA certification going on. http://www.amazon.com/Bonavita-BV1800TH-Coffee-Thermal-Carafe/dp/B005YQZNO8/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1398138450&amp;sr=8-1&amp;keywords=bonavita
I love my Chemex, I usually make it on the weekends when I have some more time. Otherwise I use this Bonavita
You can still get it on Amazon!
http://www.amazon.com/Bonavita-BV1800TH-Coffee-Thermal-Carafe/dp/B005YQZNO8/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1417493750&amp;sr=8-1&amp;keywords=Bonvita
My coffee maker isn't designed to use something like that; at least I think not.
[I have the glass carafe $116.00 version of the Bonavita BV1800] (http://www.amazon.com/Bonavita-BV1800TH-Coffee-Thermal-Carafe/dp/B005YQZNO8/)
Exactly. This machine is one that does that. I have one and am extremely pleased with it. I got it for exactly the reasons you mention.
so I spend A LOT of time researching stuff before I buy...I am fortunate to be able to do this at work and consider it a hobby. I started roasting my own coffee and realized my Cuisinart grind and brew was just not cutting it. Bought a decent burr grinder and started researching coffee makers (after pitching the Cuisinart and switching to french press)
I lusted after the Technivorm but wifey-pooh said no way. so we settled on the Bonavita http://www.amazon.com/Bonavita-BV1800TH-Coffee-Thermal-Carafe/dp/B005YQZNO8
I have never had an easier coffee maker and it simply makes coffee great and makes great coffee.
6 minutes total brew time. no gadgets, no clocks, just add water, and press on.
We use Melita #4 bamboo filters.
check out the reviews on the Bonavita. If you have the money and space for the technivorm - get it, but at $150 you can't beat the Bonavita. Make sure you get the stainless steel model
EDIT TL/DR: get the Bonavita
Were you thinking of buying a filter coffee machine or an espresso machine?
If your GF is as knowledgable as you think, she will know that there isn't a viable option for espresso machines in that price range.
Good news, coffee machines (certified by the SCAA) are well within that price range!
My friend recently bought this guy:
http://www.amazon.com/Bonavita-BV1800TH-Coffee-Thermal-Carafe/dp/B005YQZNO8/ref=sr_1_1?s=home-garden&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1380671500&amp;sr=1-1&amp;keywords=bonavita+coffee+maker
It's pretty nice and simple. Also, it is a thermal carafe so there is no heating plate destroying your coffee. If you want to go that route, that machine will be fantastic.
Other options: $200 could get you a pretty serious coffee subscription to some damn good roasters!
Check out: Intelligentsia
Counter Culture Coffee
Verve Coffee Roasters
SightGlass Coffee Roasters
Heart Coffee Roasters
Madcap Coffee Roasters
Handsome Coffee Roasters
All are very well known and produce consistently delicious coffee. ( I should say roast consistently high quality coffee). But really, if my SO got me a subscription to one of those roasters....lets just say I'd be a pretty happy fellow!
Hope that helps!!
$130 used. This is a technivorm, which gives you all of the ease of use of a drip coffee maker but without all of the issues present in a drip coffee maker. Basically the best you can go for here without completely wrecking your budget and everything it loves.
That said, you could convince her to use an easier method of coffee procurement like The Coffee Fool. It's not awfully expensive, they'll send it to you pre-ground if you're into it, and it's a shit-load better than you'll get at a supermarket unless your mother happens to live in Portland.
Not 100% sure this belongs here - sorry in advance if it doesn't.
The SCAA-certified Bonavita BV1800 is currently $95.43 on Amazon. I've seen the 5-cup model hit that price range, but AFAIK it's as low as it ever got for the 8-cup variant.
This is the one I have. https://www.amazon.ca/Bonavita-BV1800-8-Cup-Coffee-Carafe/dp/B005YQZT92/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1488238735&amp;sr=8-3&amp;keywords=bonavita
I've been using it for nearly three years and it's been great.
Here's a summary of the good automatic drip machines.
If you can lower the "easy" threshold just a bit and give up the programmable timer feature, you can get very good coffee for under $250. Pick up a $70-$90 burr grinder and the well-reviewed (from the first link) Bonavita machine for $130.
If you want a replacement auto-drip these are SCAA certified. There are also more expensive ones $300-400 range if you are interested.
Bonavita 8 Cup Exceptional Brew Coffee Maker - $125-150
Bunn HG Home Brewer - $90-100
The Bunn has a timer but I'm not sure if the Bonavita does.
Cool, so now we have a better idea what we're working with. I can run through some options/limitations and you can take it from there.
Based on the way you've described her tastes, I think she'd probably do ok with 15-bar pump espresso maker, but avoid 'steam' espresso makers at all costs. In the first instance you're making something that doesn't have all the glory of a truly great espresso, in the second case you're making something that shouldn't really be called espresso at all.
Anyway, I hope this is somewhat helpful.
Interesting. How would you compare it to http://www.amazon.com/Bonavita-BV1800-8-Cup-Coffee-Carafe/dp/B005YQZT92
I didn't want to do chemex or French press. Did a lot of research on /r/coffee and found the Bonavita to be the only "drip" that equally disperses water like a shower head and heats up to the correct temperature.
I think there really is limited options here.
From experience, after about 7-8 days, the quality drops off a bit. By 10-12 days, I think there's a noticeable loss of flavor.
At the risk of sending you down a dangerous rabbit hole, this dripper is what I use with the OEM filters. When I'm on travel/vacation, I grind with the Hario mini which produces a nice, consistent grind (as inexpensive grinders go). AT 10-11 clicks out from the finest setting it will take about 2 minutes to grind 15-17 grams (enough for 350-400ml of water, and faster than said water will boil in a typical microwave).
If you batch your beans into zip-lok baggies (~1 weeks worth each) you can freeze them and they will easily hold for a month.
Other roasters of note in the area include Red Rooster (in Floyd) and ones who's name I can't remember in Draper - Sugar Magnolia on main sells the latter. Both are more expensive (those two ~$16-18/12oz) than Mill Mountain ($13-15/16 oz) and I've not found them "better". Then again, I'm not a big fan of modern, fruity/acidic coffee.
V60 Personally I'd get the glass or ceramic one, but they are a bit more.
Filters
Gooseneck kettle with thermometer Warning, I don't have this personally, but it does have good reviews. There are a number of gooseneck kettles on amazon to choose from.
There's a Hario Skerton for $15 used in excellent condition right now
Total=$55.38 Slightly more if you miss out on the Skerton. Beans extra of course. You could make do with whatever kettle you currently have but the gooseneck makes things exponentially easier. Something you could always save for though.
IDK what you're looking for taste wise for beans, but I like Red Bird for reasonably priced coffees that are extremely tasty.
Here is what I would get
That comes to ~$75 for your everything including your first 1.5 weeks of beans.
Both will be about the same, neither will be any good. the first steps to a good cup require three main things:
tl;dr the things you should do to up your coffee game the first level (in the order you should do them) are: 1. Find a new brewing method 2. Buy better beans 3. Get a grinder
Aeropress or V60(Need to buy filters for both but they aren't expensive) and a Hario Mini Mill . Cheapest methods but make extremely high quality coffee.
Moka pots are fun, but I can't make it a daily thing.
I say shore up your pour over gear. A gooseneck kettle ($38) and a scale ($17) are musts.
You could replace the plastic cone with something prettier like a v60 ($11), but you can use the scale and kettle with the plastic pour over cone just fine.
[edit] the pour over cone I linked isn't a v60, but I'm sure you can find it :)
It looks like this Mr. Coffee machine would work:
https://www.amazon.com/Mr-Coffee-Wifi-Enabled-Coffeemaker-BVMC-PSTX91WE/dp/B00LUFSSWG
Immersion brewing with paper filters is my preferred way to make coffee. You get the longer extraction of immersion methods with the cleanness of a paper filtered method. You can also make a lot more coffee than you can with an Aeropress.
Here are two good devices for this:
https://www.amazon.com/Bonavita-Wide-Porcelain-Immersion-Dripper/dp/B00MFJX7P4/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=bonavita+dripper&amp;qid=1549779370&amp;s=gateway&amp;sr=8-1
https://www.amazon.com/Clever-Coffee-Dripper-CoastLine-Large/dp/B014JVOWB8/ref=sr_1_6?keywords=bonavita+dripper&amp;qid=1549779395&amp;s=gateway&amp;sr=8-6
There is no "one device immersion / filter" device like the Clever in glass/ metal or ceramic. I am not sure that the design of the mechanism would be possible in those materials at a price that people would be willing to pay. There is the Bonavita BV4000ID. It does use a silicone gasket incase you have any concerns about that material.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00MFJX7P4/ref=dp_cerb_3
https://www.amazon.com/Bonavita-BV4000ID-Porcelain-Immersion-Dripper/dp/B00C0NZWT4/ref=cm_cr_arp_d_product_top?ie=UTF8
While not as compact or easy, if you like the immersion brewing taste combined with a paper filter removing oils and sediments (ie no French press), then you will need to go two step. For example go is use a glass carafe (I would actually use a French press...) that you immerse the grounds into the hot water for the desired time, then pour through whatever filter with a glass/metal/ceramic filter holder, like the porcelain Melitta you that mynameisjonas posted, or a Beehouse Ceramic, Kalita, Zero, Hario glass/metal/ceramic, Chemix, etc.
I was using a Keurig before, and just recently got a Clever Dripper, and I really do enjoy it. I am now in the process of looking for better beans, and a grinder to use with the Clever. The Clever I think is a good gateway into this coffee addiction, and it is not very expensive. I even got a new variable water boiler (which cost more than the Clever haha).
If you are not about the plastic coffee dripper life Bonavita also makes a product that is similar to the Clever dripper.
I am also looking at getting the Hario grinder, but the Skerton.
It doesn't have a timer but the bonavita 1900ts is about as cheap as its ever been on amazon right now.. It's pretty consistently rated as the best tasting auto drip out there by a number of reviews. It's still over your budget but, just something to think about.
edit: one of the independent sellers in ny has it for $109. The lowest I've seen it go was that 10% off sears promo in december for $108...:/
Pros: Beautiful. Heats water hot enough to significantly extract quality coffee.
Cons: Not programable. Water dispersion is really uneven. Heating pad keeps coffee too hot, tastes baked after ~20 minutes. Water disperses too quickly (if I coarsen my grind to match the water flow brew ends up underextracted).
I recommend against the Ottomatic. It doesn't really solve an issue (having to hold your kettle and manually pour). I would recommend the Bonavita Brewer which has more features, an insulated carafe, and I would say brews better coffee (level brew bed versus the Chemex's cone shaped brew bed).
Here's the list of SCAA approved brewers.
I'd go for those if you can.
Edit: I don't own any of these, but I've heard good things about the bonavita models. The BV1900ts is only $150 on Amazon, and I've seen it recommended a couple of times. Plus, it won't break the bank and is about the price of a Keurig.
Don't know anything about coffee machines honestly, but I see people recommend this often.
https://www.amazon.com/Bonavita-BV1900TS-Carafe-Coffee-Stainless/dp/B00O9FO1HK
Get a used Bonavita through Amazon Warehouse. Great deal, great coffee.
https://www.amazon.com/Bonavita-BV1900TS-Carafe-Coffee-Stainless/dp/B00O9FO1HK/ref=sr_1_1?m=A2L77EE7U53NWQ&amp;s=warehouse-deals&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1499318371&amp;sr=8-1&amp;keywords=bonavita+coffee+maker
Bonavita BV1900TS 8-Cup Carafe Coffee Brewer, Stainless Steel https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00O9FO1HK/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_tai_DQQazbYJ9S1TX + Fresh coffee
Would you mind linking which one you have? Or are they all safe bets? I was looking at these two mainly:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00SK5IXPQ/ref=ox_sc_sfl_title_11?ie=UTF8&amp;psc=1&amp;smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00O9FO1HK/ref=ox_sc_sfl_title_12?ie=UTF8&amp;psc=1&amp;smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER
Are they like significantly better than other drip coffe machines? Or about the same?
I'm not super informed about super automatics but from what I know generally about automatics is they are expensive and repairs could get costly. My friend has a Jura and he swears by it. Personally doesn't seem to me like he proper cleans it so the shots tasted too nasty. Well I guess that and he uses Starbucks beans from Costco. I have had an espresso from a Saeco and that was pretty good, smooth, fruity. I'll assume better beans (since they weren't burnt to hell) and it was a new machine (at the time). I had it months later and same beans but seems like people at the office didn't care to clean it.
Range. I would not expect an automatic to do drip coffee well. But why would you need to? Just make yourself an Americano. What does everyone actually drink at the office? If it is more towards drip then you could just get a better drip maker like the Hario or BonaVita
https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B009JWH5YE/ref=mp_s_a_1_19?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1506320219&amp;sr=8-19&amp;pi=AC_SX236_SY340_QL65&amp;keywords=hario+machine&amp;dpPl=1&amp;dpID=51mJZKoZUbL&amp;ref=plSrch
https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00O9FO1HK/ref=mp_s_a_1_3?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1506320609&amp;sr=8-3&amp;pi=AC_SX236_SY340_FMwebp_QL65&amp;keywords=bonavita+coffee+maker&amp;dpPl=1&amp;dpID=41CK31RprXL&amp;ref=plSrch
Super autos ... yeah I don't have any exact model suggestion minus someone should make sure to descale and make sure the machine is clean on a weekly basis. For beans, I would just go to a local coffee shop. Range usually $13-20 but not sure what your budget would be like. Plus, you haven't given us current info on the coffee situation at the office now ie. any general preferences (like for milky drinks), how many cups per day, etc.
So, I am going to be the dissenting opinion, and suggest you get the Behmor Brazen Plus.
See here:
https://www.thecoffeeconcierge.net/behmor-brazen-plus-coffee-maker-review/
https://www.thecoffeeconcierge.net/coffee-maker-showdown-004-behmor-brazen-plus-vs-bonavita-bv1900ts/
Considering it's $84.95 on Amazon, not a great deal.
If you want to get a pot that will last a while and make excellent coffee, pick up a Bonavita brewer. You can get the 5 cup model for $60 right now on amazon.
As far as reusable filter, do understand that it will not give you as clean of a cup as a Keurig did. Keurigs use a paper filter in the pod which produces no silt, fines, or sludge at the bottom of the brew.
If you must get a reusable, this one will be compatible with most all "cone filter" based models.
I’d pick the Bonavita 5cup
Edit: I’d also pick up a Baratza Encore (can get one refurbished from Baratza for about $100) if you don’t already have a grinder.
Bonavita 5-Cup One-Touch Coffee Maker Featuring Thermal Carafe, BV1500TS https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00SK5IXPQ/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_3eAQBbTW7RYZQ
Seems to fit your budget...
Getting a burr grinder, a decent brewer, and freshly roasted (within two weeks) coffee is a great place to start.
This is a quality brewer. There are cheaper brewers, but if you want a solid investment in a brewer I recommend this. They also offer an 8 cup model. Bonavita 5 Cup brewer
Capresso makes great grinders. Most of their “infinity” models are very efficient and won’t completely break your bank.
Messenger Coffee from Kansas City offers a wide variety of coffees from many origin countries. This coffee is expertly roasted to bring out the best in each coffee. If you want to try a variety of different ones, they have a subscription plan where the roaster selects a different coffee every week. You also get 10% for subscribing. Messenger Coffee Roaster Choice Subscription
The OXO On is a great coffee maker which I think would probably make coffee that both you and your wife would enjoy. It regulates the temperature of the water so you don't burn the coffee and it's very easy to use.
$71.99
https://www.amazon.com/Bonavita-BV1901PW-Metropolitan-One-Touch-Coffee/dp/B074JPZWYR/ref=sr_1_2?crid=17I7J9H5GZPD7&keywords=bonavita+metropolitan+coffee+maker&qid=1566339631&s=gateway&sprefix=Bonavita+metro%2Caps%2C203&sr=8-2
I already have a reputation as a bit of a coffee fiend. If I bought that thing and put it next to my bed than I wonder if the people in my life might start to become a little concerned...
This machine looks really cool and it is kind of a novelty, but it is a bit impractical. I would probably use it pretty consistently for a while and then use it less and less until it is just another thing cluttering up the place.
At any rate, I already have a Cuisinart pot with a timer in the kitchen that I use almost every day. I set it to start making coffee 15 minutes before my alarm goes off and the smell of fresh coffee coming up from the kitchen usually wakes me up before the alarm. I also love my Cuisinart coffee pot. It makes a great cup of coffee and I have had the thing forever.
We've had this one (or the slightly older version of it, I suppose) for 8 years.
Trader Joe's costa rican is amazing as well, but about double the price I believe.
My suggestion:
https://www.amazon.com/Capresso-560-01-Infinity-Grinder-Black/dp/B0000AR7SY/
Along with
https://www.amazon.com/Cuisinart-Central-DCC-1200-Programmable-Cofeemaker/dp/B00005IBX9/
Or a french press. You'll have awesome coffee to take with you in a thermos every day.
At one point I had this coffeemaker that I bought new from Amazon. Lost it in a move. I've now replaced it after seeing it at Goodwill multiple times for like $5.
But I've also found that Goodwill's prices vary. One store near my work is usually twice as expensive for everything as the one near my house. So that's worth keeping in mind as well -- the pricing is pretty arbitrary.
In the market for a new drip machine. I have this one and hate the shit out of it and it's starting to flake out on me. I don't have $100+ to spend on the only sub-$200 machine I could find on the wiki. This one at $80 was already a lot for what I can afford, and was a disappointment almost the entire time I had it. Need recommendations!
First, the grinder. You want a burr grinder, not a blade grinder. Burr grinders cost more, but are well worth it. They make a very even grind, where a blade grinder just chops up the beans and getting the right grind is impossible. A burr grinder lets you set it for what you're using (course grind for French Press, medium grind for drip maker, fine grind for espresso maker, etc). I have this one.
You can get a nice drip coffee maker if you want to make a pot. You can combine the two like I'm about to do and get a drip coffee maker with a built in burr grinder. I have this one.
If you're looking to make single cups at a time, there are other options like pour over's, Chemex, etc. The key is to grind your beans right before you brew the coffee. Good beans may be the most key ingredient. Companies like Tonx ship fresh roasted beans regularly on a plan, you can go that route. For example they can ship a 12oz bag every two weeks. You get beans that are only a few days roasted. Fresh roasted beans produce the best tasting coffee imaginable.
Check goodwill. I know, I know. It sounds dumb and gross. But I found a Cuisinart DCC-1200 at my local goodwill yesterday for $8.98. I cleaned it with the vinegar method mentioned in the other comment, and it works like a champ.
I just broke my french press and have been looking at getting a vacuum coffee maker as a replacement. Can anyone tell me about how well it works? eg. how long it takes to brew?
EDIT: now in gif form
is there a particular reason there isn't much love for vacuum makers in this subreddit? i've been using the bodum vacuum maker for a while now and love it; however, i have no experience using a chemex or aeropress, so i can't make a comparison. i don't have any intention of switching over anytime soon, but if i'm missing out on something even more wonderful, it'd be awesome to know.
i'm relatively new, so it's possible that i just haven't seen anyone else talking about it much.
edit: i'm using this one
Nm I found it. lol I would have never guessed Vacuum Brew would work.
Bodum Santos Stovetop Glass Vacuum 34-Ounce Coffee Maker
Worth it IMO, some of the smoothest coffee you can make. Stains your teeth less because it's less acidic . Here's the brewer I use, Takes an entire 12 ounce bag, 24 hours to brew and it usually lasts me six days in the fridge.
Cold brew at home is pretty easy to tackle.
There are a number of cold brew contraptions you can buy to ease and simplify the transition between steeping and drinking.
Alternatively, if you own a french press, then the results from that are just as good. Throw the grounds in, add water, plunge after X hours.
General steps:
---------
Resources:
See the comment from /u/dreamer6 - on how to create the vanilla cream and syrup
Blue Bottle - guide and recipe
Stumptown - guide and recipe
NYTimes - blurb article and recipe
I do, and it’s SUPER easy. I bought a [Toddy Cold Brew System] (www.amazon.com/dp/B0006H0JVW/ref=cm_sw_r_sms_c_api_i_fxKkDbMPE83QH) from Amazon and use that. It has instructions and everything. But basically, I grind 6oz (half a bag) and add it to the brewer with 3.5 cups of water. I let it set (steep or brew, if you will) for about 24hrs. Then drain it, add it to my storage bottle and pop it into the fridge. It lasts 7-10 days, having a 16oz coffee every morning. It’s a concentrate, so you then pour some to your cup, add water and ice. I dont have an exact measurement, as I eyeball the pour. But it’s probably around a 1/4 cup of concentrate? It’s up
To your tastes and how strong you prefer it.
In a pinch, I’ve done it in a mason jar and then Strained through cheese cloth and then a coffee filter. But it’s messier and I don’t like it as much. I love my Toddy system!
Another important factor is finding a coffee bean that you like. I personally find I prefer a medium-dark Roast. I tried various roasts and “flavors” until I found a blend I liked best!
I recommend the Toddy cold brew system. Makes about a week's worth for my wife and I.
Edit: [Link] (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0006H0JVW/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_65KJxbBHC1R07)
Get yourself a Toddy, thank me later.
http://www.amazon.com/Toddy-T2N-Cold-Brew-System/dp/B0006H0JVW/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1394333810&amp;sr=8-2&amp;keywords=cold+brew+coffee
An amazing way to make iced coffee is to use a Toddy Brewer. You can find them on Amazon for about $30. It is a room-temp brewing system that makes this wonderful double-strength coffee concentrate. And it cuts the acidity of the final product by a ton. Just add water and ice and you have the best cup you can imagine.
http://www.amazon.com/Toddy-T2N-Cold-Brew-System/dp/B0006H0JVW/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1398144084&amp;sr=8-1&amp;keywords=Toddy+brewer
I used to work at a Scooter's Coffeehouse in Omaha, NE. We used this style toddy maker, using 1lb of our dark roasted Guatemalan ground coarse and 9 cups of water soaked 12 hours. IIRC the procedures for making sure it got an even soak were to add 5 cups cold water, half a pound of coffee, 2 more cups cold water, let sit for 5 minutes, then add the last two cups of water. I still do this at home (but with better beans now that I'm back in Oregon), and it works well for me.
"Blend into submission" is just another way to say "blend the shit out of it" or "blend until smooth." Nothing fancy there.
I use this to make cold brewed coffee. You could just use regular coffee that has been cooled; it will work perfectly well. I prefer cold brewed because it's much less acidic so it doesn't irritate my stomach.
Nothing really fancy. I just use my old Toddy and filtered water. It's really about the quality of the coffee.
I bought my mom a Toddy cold brew machine for Christmas last year. She can make her own super delicious cold-brew coffee concentrate, and it makes a great iced coffee when combined with water, almond milk, or what have you.
A different spin is going for some cold brew action. We make a batch of extract that lasts a week. Coupled with our hot water machine, we have instant non-bitter coffee.
https://www.amazon.com/Toddy-T2N-Cold-Brew-System/dp/B0006H0JVW
Yeah! It actually makes an amazing cup of cold brew coffee. You let the coffee brew in cold/room temp water for 12-24 hours and it takes all of the acid out of the coffee so it's a really mild, but highly caffeinated cup. One batch usually lasts me about a week's worth of morning coffees in the summer! :)
I was using mason jars or glass bowls until I got a Toddy last Fathers Day. While it's really just a plastic bucket and a glass carafe, it streamlines the process. With jars, I'd have to strain the coffee through a colander lined with cheesecloth. Not exactly onerous, but removing those steps is a nice plus. Plus, it makes a nice sized amount at once.
Its not fancy and electronic, but for the cash, and if I wanted my coffee over ice, I'd buy one of these babies - http://www.amazon.com/Toddy-T2N-Cold-Brew-System/dp/B0006H0JVW - make coffee once a week overnight and keep it in the fridge and use it when needed. And I'd use the money I'd saved to buy some nice coffee beans. Or maybe something else nice for myself.
The Toddy is a bucket with a hole in the bottom and a cloth filter. You put the filter in the bottom, put a plug in the hole, add ground coffee and water, let it sit overnight, then pull the plug and set it on a vessel to catch the resulting coffee. It comes with a bucket, but where I work we just put it in a pitcher.
Toddy Cold Brew System
Try a Toddy. It's a cold brew coffee maker. I hate black coffee, because it always tastes bitter and burnt to me. With a Toddy, you mix your coffee and water in the big white thing, let it steep for ~12 hours (so yeah, you'll wanna do that ahead of time), and then filter it into the decanter. It makes a bunch, and you can add more water if it's too strong, or sugar or cream or whatever. I seriously haven't gone back to hot brews since we got our Toddy a few years ago. \m/
So you're saying I might just save the money and get this instead?
Hario Technica 5-Cup Glass Syphon Coffee Maker https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000IKLQZK/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_ThyvDbEKK0RWD
Hario Technica Syphon Coffee Maker
Reminds me of this coffee scene in Breaking Bad: http://www.aljazeera.com/mritems/images/2013/1/23//201312315632779580_20.jpg
Siphon coffee set. Most entertaining way to make coffee out there. Get it with a little butane burner to make your life easier.
I got you, I'm saying 10 dollars anywhere is alot for a cup of coffee. If you're on this sub you probably have all the gear you need except the actual siphon: https://www.amazon.com/Hario-Technica-5-Cup-Coffee-Syphon/dp/B000IKLQZK
67 bucks, have it anytime, each mug will cost $1.00 or less depending on what you spend on beans
Does he drink coffee?
Hario Technica 5-Cup Glass Syphon Coffee Maker https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000IKLQZK/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_-BI3DbD9DBSB0
https://www.amazon.com/Hario-Ceramic-Coffee-Dripper-White/dp/B000P4D5HG
I'm leaning towards V60 then. I always get a cup of V60 from the roasters I grab my beans from, and I love it. Just curious, what equipment would I need aside from the cone? I'm looking at this ceramic cone
I used this recipe! It was very similar to the other ones ive seen so I used it. I am not sure how much weed I used because I dont have a scale, but i believe it hight have been .25-.5 grams. not really a lot because I wanted to see how much it affected me being a every weekend or so kind of smoker.
BTW the thing I used to strain it was this! its great for pour over coffee and I hadnt used it in a while and it worked OK for straining...problem was the weed built up at the cone tip in the filter and clogged it a bit...so I had to squeeze it out with a spoon but ended up getting a little herb in the tea because i poked a little hole in the filter on accident.
Looks fierce. I think I might have to buy one. This one ok?
What kinds of coffee is preferred over others for this method? Any better than others?
>I guess my expectations are high because of the tight bond this community shows.
Yeah, I totally get that! I find cigar people, even IRL, are friendlier than most.
&nbsp;
By "drip method" are you talking about an auto-drip machine? Because if so, I highly recommend exploring a manual pourover set-up. I prefer the Hario V60, but many others like Chemex or something like the Clever Dripper (a combination pour-over and immersion brewer) instead. The cheapest option for trying your hand at a pourover is the plastic Melitta brewer, often available at your local grocery store for $2-$3, some standard #2 filters, and an electric (or stovetop) water boiler with a decent spout for slow, steady pouring. It's funny that you mention a (french) press pot and moka pots don't give you a full enough flavour, though, because those are typically two of the more full-flavoured methods. I suspect your water:coffee ratio or grind size/consistency might be causing a weak (under-extracted) brew.
In my opinion, though, whilst brew method makes a difference in your cup, I'd say bean freshness and grind make more of a difference than anything. I'd much rather have fresh beans recently ground at a proper size and consistency brewed in a $10 Mr. Coffee than stale pre-ground or poorly ground beans in a professionally-poured manual brewer.
In the end, if you find a manual brewer is too much hassle, the SCAA (Specialty Coffee Association of America) does test and maintain a list of certified auto-brewers that meet the temp/brew time requirements.
*Ninja-Edit: Here's a good starter on grind size and how to adjust for flavour.
Since you're 17 years old and likely don't have access to a few hundred dollars to really get started, I would save up and get a Hario Skerton grinder and V60 single cup pour over here: http://www.amazon.com/Hario-VDC-02W-Dripper-Ceramic-Funnel/dp/B000P4D5HG/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1372182859&amp;sr=8-1&amp;keywords=hario+v60
then I would save up for a bag of intelligentsia, just buy whatever single source sounds good to you. watch youtube videos on how to do proper pourover technique. learn how to use a kettle (there's no need for a gooseneck one just yet), figure out how to pour slowly with a standard kettle. maybe buy a cheap thermometer so you can get the water temperature right. start pouring yourself coffee, but remember to drink coffee right after it's been roasted, not months later.
if you're rich, do the same thing, but buy the bonavita temperature controlled gooseneck kettle in addition to the v60. and a baratza virtuoso.
actually do whatever you want, there's no good answer. just about any advice you take from this subreddit will be significantly better than what you're currently doing.
posting this topic is the equivalent of 17 year old with a casio keyboard asking a concert pianist for advice in becoming a musician.
Personally I've been enjoying the Hario V60 dripper(
http://www.amazon.com/Hario-VDC-02W-Ceramic-Coffee-Dripper/dp/B000P4D5HG).
It has some grooves in the dripper so that coffee can extract from the sides of the filter. And this specific dripper uses the Hario filer papers (not that expensive a solution).
And most important, it makes a good cup of coffee!
The answer to your question is really dependent on budget. A quick perusal through the sub will show you that the Aeropress is a popular option because it is one of the least expensive ways to get a solid cup of coffee.
If you have some cash to part with, it might be worth looking at setting yourself up with a pourover setup - I'd probably suggest the v60. You would need the v60, the hario buono, and you'd probably want a scale to weigh coffee (there are a LOT of options, many cheaper than what I've linked). You would also need to get a reasonably good grinder - check out the sidebar for a list of grinders. Yes, it's a lot of capital to get started, but the coffee is fantastic and the equipment is very durable. This equipment, properly cared for, could potentially outlast you in many cases.
There's also the standard drip coffee maker, but from my experience if you go that route you ought to just invest in the cheapest one. The quality coffee from most drip machines is pretty similar. A better question is what grinder to get - that will improve your brew quality across all methods. Again, sidebar has great advice, but a really popular grinder here is the[ Baratza Encore] (http://www.amazon.com/Baratza-Encore-Conical-Coffee-Grinder/dp/B00LW8122Y/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1459250167&amp;sr=8-1&amp;keywords=baratza+encore+coffee+grinder) which you can sometimes find on their refurb page for discounted prices.
No matter what you choose - good luck and happy caffienation
Hario Shops - list of Hario shops. Select Tokyo on the top right hand corner of the map and scroll down to see the addresses of shops. Those with the coffee filter logo sells the coffee filter. Not sure if they sell what you are looking for however.
As a guide to the price:
Hario online shop
On Amazon.jp
Hope this helps!
(LONG POST) I also recently transitioned to hardcore coffee drinking, and I found that it is only a modest investment to get some seriously good cups. Perhaps you should try pour-over brewing, which I switched to from French Pressing - imo you get a lot higher flavor clarity. The industry standard was the Hario V60, which is kind of tricky to use, but I as with many have switched to the Kalita Wave, which is especially forgiving for novices. Keep in mind that the Wave I linked is a smaller size, so it can be a bit finicky for a good pour method, but it is a major score compared to other Kalitas I found across the web. Filters are a bit pricey with the Kalita though, so the V60 is better moneywise but again tricky to achieve consistency. A good scale can be found for about $15-20, which is essential to getting the correct ratios. As others have said, a Mini Mill is possibly the most important investment, but I HIGHLY recommend modding it to get high consistency (I used a rubber band for this.... it will all make sense with the link). For pourovers, some will tell you a specialized kettle is a must for pour control, but I fare just fine with a ceramic tea kettle https://imgur.com/uIWppVj . Anyways, cheers to entering coffee! :D
Link for the lazy
[Hario] (http://www.amazon.com/Hario-VDC-02W-Ceramic-Coffee-Dripper/dp/B000P4D5HG
) on amazon.
Reusable tote bags and veggie bags for the farmers market.
I've found some really great recipes in this cookbook, if he cooks: http://www.amazon.com/The-Great-Vegan-Bean-Book/dp/1592335497
For coffee, if he doesn't already have any of these: a French press, a pour-over (http://www.amazon.com/Hario-VDC-02W-Ceramic-Coffee-Dripper/dp/B000P4D5HG), or an insulated coffee mug. I think stumptown coffee does a coffee club subscription thing.
Random, but a bento lunch jar could be cool if he has to take lunch to work. Reduces packaging, plastic sandwich bag use: http://www.amazon.com/Zojirushi-SL-JAE14SA-Bento-Stainless-Silver/dp/B000246GSE
Honestly, the easiest way to start is probably an Aeropress and a decent kettle. Get a gooseneck early, then you won't have to buy a second kettle later if you decide to start playing with pour-overs. If you want to make boiling water a little more passive, get an electric one. I have this one and it works like a charm.
Another cheap starter option for brewing is the V60 and its various clones. The original is plastic, but this one is ceramic and only $20. It takes some practice to get pour-overs just right, but it's worth it. And for $20, it's not a bad way to give it a shot or just to have in your collection.
Grinders are a whole discussion. I have a Baratza Encore that I really like. It's easy to maintain and Baratza's support was pretty good to me when I needed them. If you want to go a little cheaper, you might consider a Skerton or Mini Mill.
For beans, have fun. There are a ton of places to get decent beans, and part of the fun is finding new places. There are a number of redditors that roast and will probably sell beans to you if you like. (Including me!) I would suggest some, but I actually skipped this part and went straight to roasting.
EDIT: Oh, and good luck. You're opening a door to a rabbit hole, now.
You could consider trying a different method of brewing since you need to make a reinvestment anyways - experimentation is fun! Why not try an Aeropress or a pourover cone?
The grinder is a Baratza Encore, and they run about $130 on Amazon.
http://www.amazon.com/Baratza-Encore-Conical-Coffee-Grinder/dp/B007F183LK
EDIT:
This looks like the kettle: http://www.amazon.com/Hario-Buono-Coffee-Drip-Kettle/dp/B000IGOXLS/ref=sr_1_4?s=home-garden&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1405085505&amp;sr=1-4&amp;keywords=hario+electric+kettle
And this looks like the v60: http://www.amazon.com/Hario-VD-02T-Coffee-Dripper-Clear/dp/B001RBTSMM/ref=sr_1_5?s=home-garden&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1405085525&amp;sr=1-5&amp;keywords=v60
So maybe around $180, unless he got some stuff for cheaper. Not OP, so I can't say for sure.
I also bought a clear plastic Hario V60. I grind the beans before I leave home and just bring a couple paper filters. So much better than Starbucks instant coffee. With the Hario you can also use it at home while I would never use one of those GSI deals other than in the back country.
http://www.amazon.com/Hario-VD-02T-Coffee-Dripper-Clear/dp/B001RBTSMM
I started getting into coffee nearly a year and a half ago, and here is what I did to start:
I bought
Now, bear in mind that I knew that I loved coffee before I invested all this money into it; you should obviously really consider your situation and really get into "good" coffee before splurging on all of this equipment. I now have a French press, a moka pot, and am going to invest in an Aeropress soon, but I still prefer the pour-over method to any other coffee that I've had, thus why I recommend you go that route. It can take some definite getting used to and has a bit of a learning curve, but it is easily worth the effort (tutorial videos will help immensely.
Keep in mind, you needn't buy exactly what I did. Shop around, see what you like and what is in your price range. I will say this, however: if you do go the pour-over method, go for the V60 or the Chemex, they are both easily the best on the market, and the same goes for the Buono kettle, though if necessary you can purchase a different kettle, just so long as it is a gooseneck (which is required to finely control the flow of water).
Many other people will tell you to go with a French press. This is good advice as it has a very slight learning curve in comparison to pretty much every other method (besides maybe the Aeropress, depending on who you talk to): it is literally grinding the coffee coarsely and letting it sit in water for X-amount of time. It also does not take filters, is easy to clean, and is a relatively cheap initial investment (~$20). I like the Brazil model that Bodum makes.
No matter which method you choose to brew with, there are three things that you should not underestimate the importance of (and thus should not skimp on):
Best of luck. There's a lot of good knowledge on this sub, on this sub's How to Coffee: A Primer, and on the Internet in general. Check it all out, pick your path, and enjoy the ride!
I would definitely go with a larger Chemex. But don't be afraid to buy an $8 Hario V60 on Amazon (https://www.amazon.com/Hario-Plastic-Coffee-Dripper-Clear/dp/B001RBTSMM) to experiment with a smaller size and different brew ratios/beans.
I just looked and the brown plastic 01 one on amazon was $7.75. That was just the cone, not the carafe. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B003HJY4SU/ref=twister_B07F2JQ7GL?th=1
and $7.30 for the clear plastic 02 cone: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B001RBTSMM/ref=twister_B07F2JQ7GL?th=1
New non-electric gooseneck for $27, pair this with an $8 plastic V60 and get free shipping, or New (in damaged packaging) electric gooseneck, Delivered for $39. I'm not sure you can ask for much cheaper unless you hunt thrift stores for used stuff.
I vote pour over.
I have a French Press, Aeropress and $200 espresso machine, but for my everyday morning cup I go for my pour over. Actually, I just ordered a Hario V60 which has a bigger hole than others (like the Melitta). I find it gives a richer cup and the cost is about the same if you get the plastic kind.
the V60 is perfectly fine, some may suggest the Chemex, others Kalita, just pick one and stick to it. i personally recommend a V60 clear plastic server for several reasons:
some other things to pick up are a scale and a kettle (gooseneck if you're slightly more serious about the game). picking the right grinder will depend on your budget and whether or not you'd like to work out those arms of yours (auto or manual). i'd recommend watching this to get a good idea on the whole brewing process
good luck!
Here is a thermometer similar to the one I use for siphon brewing for $17. It won't work for home roasting. If you think you might get into that, you will need one that has a higher max temp (500 F+). I haven't bought one yet because I am considering a roast profiling setup which would port to my pc. This is a good grinder at $45. This is the kitchen scale I like for $50 but you might be able to get one for less. The scale only measures down to grams which works fine for this siphon at 40 oz. ($36) but for a smaller siphon you might need a scale that measures down to .1 grams. To summarize, you could get a decent set up for ~$120 or for a roast compatible thermometer ~$145. You will also want a wooden spoon for stirring the coffee in the siphon.
Just so you know, you can find Siphon's in the 50-70 range on amazon. Take the Yama 8 cup for example.
Here you go.
http://www.amazon.com/Northwest-Glass-Stovetop-Vacuum-Coffee/dp/B002CVTKW4/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1377282582&amp;sr=8-1&amp;keywords=coffee+siphon
How about 8 cup Yama Siphon Brewer? Amazon link ;)
Technivorm Moccamaster
I love that your first cup of coffee linked you strongly-enough to the coffee community that you're already saying "we". :-)
Welcome to the
cultclub!I became a coffee snob accidentally, since with each improvement I'd make to my coffee, I could no longer even stomach what I'd enjoyed before. So beware of that . . . That said, my advice would be:
1b. A blade grinder will have been be a waste of $15 when you finally replace it (and you will). Go for a Hario Slim for your first grinder, because even when you upgrade, you'll still use it for travel, work, etc.
My recommended starter kit:
For under $40 shipped, you'll have a setup with minimal sunk cost if you decide manual coffee isn't for you, will make coffee every bit as good (imho) as more beautiful systems, and won't be obsolete if and when you upgrade (since it'll still give you wonderful coffee at work or on the road).
PS. See my essay on my descent into coffee-snobbery I contributed to an online writing community I used to participate in regularly.
PPS. If you meet the Coffee Buddha in the cafe, kill him.
My Moka Master is the only thing I can recommend because it's all I've used, when brewing pot coffee, for the past 6 years. For $300, the machine is a tank and hasn't had a hiccup once, also allows you to control the speed of the drip. At the time of purchase it was the only machine I could find that heated water to proper brewing temperature.
Moccamaster KBT 10-Cup Coffee Brewer with Thermal Carafe, Polished Silver https://www.amazon.com/dp/B002S4DI2S/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_zATpzb00GT80E
If you want the best bang for your buck I wouldn't drop more than 20-30. Go with a simple V60 pour over, French press, or stovetop espresso maker. They're all cheap and and give you a good cup of coffee consistently, given you brew each method properly
Method of brew is important and all, but grinder and uniform grounds is as crucial, if not more so, and this is where I would put my money. Burr grinders are known to be the best. I use a capresso $100 burr grinder and has been a powerhouse these past few years (I'll link it below). I recommend paying the premium as well, they offer a $45 burr grinder, however, you get what you pay for. The motor is much weaker and much less consistent grinds.
Also know what ground size is necessary for each method. Coarse for French press, fine for espresso etc.
Capresso 560.01 Infinity Burr Grinder, Black https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0000AR7SY/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_ZITpzbHK420TD
Hmu if you got questions, I'm always down to talk coffee.
I'd go for the MoccaMaster its perfect for an office.
but that would make you settle for a poorer grinder than a Baratza Encore. If you could at least spring for a Bodum grinder you would have a nice office set up.
Here is the desktop version of your link
After much searching and reading and reviewing, I chose this one. We've had it for 2 years, and loved it every day.
We got this coffee maker about a year ago...
http://www.amazon.com/Cuisinart-DCC-1200-Central-Coffeemaker-Stainless/dp/B00005IBX9
It's easy to program and has a water filter (like a Brita) built into it. It's a nice machine. It's not the most expensive, but was expensive to us. (limited budget)
It's a lot cheaper than our trips to the coffee shop though. Now we just buy about 2 pounds a week on Tuesday, the day our local roaster roasts.
I also invested in a really nice thermos.
The coffee they make here at work is AWFUL.
I'm currently a fan of Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf's French Roast. I picked up a small bag at the grocery store, enjoyed it, then stumbled across the much larger bag at Costco.
It seems to be a hit with others, as well, as it's the only coffee I've made for people that they asked about what it was.
I've made it in both drip and french press. I'm still getting the hang of my french press, so the drip is more consistent, but both are good.
Price History
There are a ton of great ways to brew coffee, but sadly a drip machine is probably not among them unless you're willing to fork over the dough for a Bunn or similarly well-designed machine. If you find that your coffee is bitter it's probably because you're brewing too long or your water is way too hot.
A french press is my go-to methond, but my favorite sexy way to brew coffee is with one of these. It's science so you know it has to be good.
And because it can never be said enough: 1. Do not freeze/refrigerate your beans. Ever. 2. Do not use flavored coffee beans in anything that will ever be used for unflavored coffee again. The flavor oils get everywhere, and they will get rank over time.
I only watched parts... But don't see how this is all that different from a method that has been used for decades: Bodum Pebo Vacuum Coffee Maker, 8 cup, 1.0 l, 34 oz., Black https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00005NCX5/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_f4ksxbTJW4P34
It really makes good coffee. My parents had a classic Danish Bodum Santos since the Eighties, and I have had one for fifteen years now or so.
Making coffee with it really doesn't have to be as … elaborate as shown in the video. Due to its design, the water seems to hit the coffee at a very good temperature and it produces a very nice and mellow flavor. Just make sure you have a rather rough grind, and the rest is almost fire and forget.
This is the one my wife got me. Just has two cups this morning (Illy)...best coffee ever.
Vacuum Coffee Maker
Anyone ever use The Santos?
I was looking at this just now https://www.amazon.com/Bodum-Vacuum-Coffee-Maker-Black/dp/B00005NCX5 looks pretty tasty
http://www.amazon.com/Bodum-Santos-Stovetop-Vacuum-34-Ounce/dp/B00005NCX5
I still want one of these
i would imagine it might pull with less acid and if the filter is good less sediment than french so ima go smoother less gritty less acidic cup compared to french i mean it should be close to a Moka pot which to me is a similar method using Bernoulli's principle of fluid dynamics using heat to produce a pressure change and then taking away said heat but ya know coffee is about consistency if your timing is the same and temp the same on your french press you can just get different beans to change your cup but learning all the ways is good too if you wanna try it at home https://www.amazon.com/Bodum-Vacuum-Coffee-Maker-Black/dp/B00005NCX5
i love coffee, but don't drink it quite as often as i used to, probably bc i work at bucks and am kind of bored with it :D i am actually a big tea drinker now. i black teas like earl grey and irish breakfast. my favorite coffee drink would have to be just a simple iced coffee with lots of cream and some sort of sweetener. i love the gingerbread syrup bucks gets in the winter. my favorite way to make coffee is via my coffee press. it's so simple and really tastes the best. i've always wanted to try the glass vacuum coffee makers--one of my friend's aunts had one and i was amazed--but they're too pricey for my light coffee habit.
posted this earlier.
I bought a Toddy last weekend. I know you can do basically the same thing with mason jars and whatever, but this just seemed quick and idiot proof.
I really enjoyed it. I liked that it was able to make a lot at a time, (lasted me pretty much all week) and could just keep a jug of it in the fridge. (the waiting was the most frustrating part of the process)
I just put it over a ton of ice and then added milk or almond milk.
Since I was just doing it for the first time I used some french dark roast beans from trader joes. Not sure what the best to use are.
I've only done it one time, so I'm obviously not very experienced. But yeah, that's my experience. I'd say it was easily worth it, I thought about going the more thrifty/crafty way, but the convenience seemed worth it to me.
y'ever try cold press? I've been using a Toddy for the last two years.
I fill up a thermos with cold press and bring it into the office on Monday, then mix a shot of it with 2 parts hot water from the office water cooler every morning. Co-workers say it's the best they ever had!
Sometimes though.. one part cold press, two parts whole milk, tablespoon of raw sugar, run it in the blender with some ice until it's mostly foam; a frappuccino that's deliciously bad for you
Want to make the best iced coffee?
Get this. Literally the best iced coffee i've made or had. A few places around here that aren't starbucks makes it this way.
I wish I wasn't so late to this conversation, so I'm sure I'm just a repeat comment, but my boyfriend and I have the same problem except (when) I make cold brew in the Toddy he refuses to cut the concentrate with water. Our pitcher will last two days. I don't like Starbucks coffee unless the Kati Kati blend is in season. Freshly ground on the courser side. Mhm.
Anyway, maybe you could entice him with the Toddy and a cool reusable cup? Spend a little up front and commit to a 15 minute weekly prep should help with over all savings.
Side note: I've also seen the infuser bottles (The ones for fruits and tea) work just as well, nightly prep but pretty easy and convenient.
https://www.amazon.com/Toddy-THM-Cold-Brew-System/dp/B0006H0JVW/ref=sr_1_4?keywords=toddy+cold+brew&qid=1566996393&s=gateway&sr=8-4
Use something like this. I have this system and it works flawlessly. It stays fresh upwards to two weeks in the fridge. Dilute it however strong you want it.
I buy 12oz bag of preground beans because I'm lazy. Just throw it in a filter into this unit, add 7 cups of water. Let it sit for 12-24 hours and presto!
Heck yes he is- and visa versa, of course. Last time I saw him live, he was wearing a Yelich shirsey, gotta love that.
I really like the new album- I was a huge fan of his last record, and this seems to continue to evolve his sound in some exciting ways.
I make my own cold brew in a toddy: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0006H0JVW/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_qkjtDbHZAK9A3. It’s great, but the access to unlimited caffeine has definitely lead to some sweaty palms before.
Toddy cold brew system. I got mine from Tonx.org (member store) but it's available on amazon as well:
http://www.amazon.com/Toddy-T2N-Cold-Brew-System/dp/B0006H0JVW
oh yeah. for sure. if you've got time https://smile.amazon.com/Toddy-T2N-Cold-Brew-System/dp/B0006H0JVW/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1467824016&amp;sr=8-3&amp;keywords=iced+coffee+brewer
get this. throw some french press coarse ground coffee in it. let it sit in the fridge for 4 days and that will be the strongest coffee youll ever drink. highly recommended. changed my life.
[your entire fridge will smell like coffee though, which is either an amazing plus, or a terrible con, depending on if you ask me or my wife]
The Ronco Brew System is a knock-off of the Toddy Brew System and comes with a plastic decanter instead of a glass one. It also comes with a lid unlike the Toddy. I have heard mixed opinions on the Ronco unit's filtering though.
Really, you'll be good with any bottom container that will fit.
Toddy at Amazon $35ish
I know a lot of coffee shops use a really large five gallon toddy system for their cold brew too (including Starbucks) though I am not near any stump town.
Edit - fixed the link
Work has by far the worst coffee I have ever tasted, so I will sneak down to the patient coffee area if I am in need.
On a day like today (it is 4:45AM and I am at work because I couldn't sleep at all), I am going with the French Press.
At home, I have a Toddy sitting on the counter making a large amount of cold-brew.
If it isn't black, it is Bulletproof. Instead of Kerry-gold butter, I use Kalona Supernatural as it is grass-fed and very local.
I'm not as picky as you would think about the bean, but the quality does make a big difference when it comes to the cold brew. A range of flavors I have never tasted in typical brewed coffee.
Mischief managed!
throw wild partiesexcel.I use the toddy.
https://www.amazon.com/Toddy-THM-Cold-Brew-System/dp/B0006H0JVW
I've had it for 5 years and it works great. I thought the glass was too thin and I'd accidentally break it at some point but haven't had a problem so far.
Get yourself a Toddy cold coffee maker and then hit a local grocery store and grind up a pound of their darkest/greasiest beans on the absolute coarsest grind then let that steep in your fridge for a at least 24 hours. Cold brew coffee is bright and the dark beans are the least bitter. The resulting concentrate should last you for a good week. Treat it like a strong liquor and mix a shot or two with some cold milk, ice and maybe some sugar or flavored syrup.
https://smile.amazon.com/Toddy-T2N-Cold-Brew-System/dp/B0006H0JVW/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1499652642&amp;sr=8-4&amp;keywords=toddy
I make my own.
Toddy Cold Brew System
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0006H0JVW/
I’m not a coffee purist, was just looking to save myself money because I was tired of shelling out $3 at the coffee shop every time I wanted some. You could probably go down a deep hole with this coffee stuff.
If you want to have more coffee and brew less might I recommend: Toddy I got this for Christmas and it is fan-fucking-tastic. I keep a sun tea container in the fridge and it lasts me a week or so (depends on how many in the house are drinking coffee at the time). Not that you asked for recommendations....
There's also the similarly priced cold brew Toddy: http://www.amazon.com/Toddy-T2N-Cold-Brew-System/dp/B0006H0JVW/ it worked pretty well until I busted the glass. It makes a concentrated coffee that you make ahead and store in the fridge until you want some and mix with hot or cold water or milk.
Here's the lazy version....buy a Toddy. I use 7 cups of water per 12 oz bag of coffee, or 6 cups for a 10 oz bag. Soak 12-24 hours, then drain.
I've even used pre-ground coffee from the grocery store when I'm feeling especially lazy, but undoubtedly grinding it yourself (as coarse as possible) does taste better.
Cold brewed is THE way to go. If you've got a french press it's even easier, because it has a strainer built in already. I got my girlfriend a Cold Brew Toddy. You can make a good two weeks' worth of coffee at a time (and it keeps that long too). Fab.
Do you know if he enjoys iced coffee? If so, perhaps the Toddy Cold Brew System?
I have just received a Toddy for Christmas and so far I have enjoyed the experience and coffee that it was made.
https://www.amazon.ca/Toddy-T2N-Cold-Brew-System/dp/B0006H0JVW/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1482992150&amp;sr=8-1&amp;keywords=toddy
Cold brew. I have something similar to this
Do you think he'd like anatomy and physiology prints? My brother is in the medical field an found similar prints for his office that he loves.
If he's a big coffee drinker, a Toddy cold brew system might be up his alley. It makes even subpar coffee taste great, and it's less acidic that other brew methods.
A badge reel related to his field would be a nice daily use item. I'm partial to these.
I use this guy: http://www.amazon.com/Toddy-T2N-Cold-Brew-System/dp/B0006H0JVW
It's kinda spendy for what it is, I'm sure you could DIY for cheaper, but in the long run it saves a ton of $$, and it's great for iced coffee all summer!
I have one of these personally, although there are ways to make your own cold press system as well.
Basically you use coarse ground coffee, brew it in water for at least 12 hours, and then filter it out. Often what you get is a bit concentrated, so you can enjoy it super strong or add water/milk/whatever.
Oh wow! Thanks - seems like that it would be worth getting that one.
Amazon wants $35 and 4.4 out of 5 stars with 461 customer reviews is pretty good :)
I find that bean quality doesn't matter much at all if you're making cold brew. I use a Toddy maker and cheap beans from Costco. No acid at all, tastes delicious black, hot or iced. One pot lasts me about two weeks. It definitely helps to grind your own beans, though. Grinders are pricey, but it's a one-time expense.
Get a toddy: https://www.amazon.com/Toddy-THM-Cold-Brew-System/dp/B0006H0JVW
Grind a bag of decent coffee from Costco. Grind it a little bigger than drip
I recently purchased the Hario 5 cup siphon and use it on my gas stove top all the time. I was going to purchase a portable butane burner but figured I would give the stove top a try before hand. Someone had posted a review on amazon about using a gas stove and it working for him. I was worried about the base over heating but that has not been an issue at all. I simply use one of the smaller burners on the stove top, if you have that option, and use a medium/low heat turning it to low after the top chamber fills. Hope this helps!
I have an electric blade grinder. It's fine. For a french press, I use a medium grind so as not to extract too many tannins while brewing. For a drip I would use a fine grind as the water spends much less time in contact with the coffee.
Bonus: this is on my amazon wishlist. One day I will own this mad scientist's contraption. http://www.amazon.com/Hario-Technica-5-Cup-Coffee-Syphon/dp/B000IKLQZK?ie=UTF8&amp;colid=1N4896UWL84D5&amp;coliid=I2JZ3W1BDHU9TK&amp;ref_=wl_it_dp_o_pd_S_ttl
Here you go
As far as I can tell, that was simply a siphon coffee brewer made out of lab glassware. Still, I want it in my dining room!
It's like-a this: http://www.amazon.com/Hario-Technica-5-Cup-Coffee-Syphon/dp/B000IKLQZK
hmmm.... he COULD upgrade his grinder, a baratza virtuoso is a step up from his capresso infinity (that's what i think that is), especially when it comes to espresso making.
there are things like custom tamps that you can get and get their name on it? I'm not familiar with the breville machine so not sure if the tamps you get actually work on the breville one, sometimes they are smaller.
other cool things include a siphon coffee machine, you would want to get a butane burner for it, i'm not from america so I don't really know what people recommend of amazon lol but i'll link something for reference:
https://www.amazon.com/Hario-Technica-5-Cup-Syphon-Coffee/dp/B000IKLQZK/ref=sr_1_2?keywords=siphon+coffee+hario&qid=1569350492&s=gateway&sr=8-2
https://www.amazon.com/Stainless-Tabletop-Outdoor-Butane-Burner/dp/B07WFDPMNJ/ref=sr_1_15?keywords=siphon+coffee+butane+burner&qid=1569350580&s=gateway&sr=8-15
or a kyoto style drip tower, which is for making iced drip coffee which is great and this is also somethign I would NEVER get myself (price and all) but would be awesome to have but be aware of the practicality of size and where to put it lol, note: it takes 5-6 hours to drip a few cups haha:
https://www.amazon.com/Yama-Glass-YAMCDM8SBK-Coffee-Technology/dp/B004EBUZ1A/ref=sr_1_15?keywords=kyoto+drip+tower&qid=1569350410&s=gateway&sr=8-15
https://www.amazon.com/Hario-Coffee-Water-Dripper-780ml/dp/B001807LZS/ref=sr_1_10?keywords=drip+tower&qid=1569350457&s=gateway&sr=8-10
btw, you are a great friend.
You should look into getting a vacuum pot then! It's fairly similar
I have an insulated french press I use for a crowd (or if I want to have multiple cups).
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Cafetiere-TopElek-Stainless-Measuring-Screens/dp/B01LWSU8X7/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1499878617&amp;sr=8-1-spons&amp;keywords=french+press&amp;psc=1
I also have a coffee syphon I use if I want to feel like I'm makin' crack. I clearly have a problem and need to repent, post haste.
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Hario-TCA-5-Coffee-Syphon-Technia/dp/B000IKLQZK/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1499878685&amp;sr=8-1&amp;keywords=coffee+syphon+hario
Welcome to caffeine addiction.
I think next on my list is one of these syphon brewers. I tried it at a coffee shop and it's a lot like a French press but better filtered.
I have been curios about this machine https://www.amazon.com/Hario-Technica-5-Cup-Coffee-Syphon/dp/B000IKLQZK. Have you ever used one of these?
I wonder if it really works when it comes to integrate the scent of the coffee inside the cup.
Hario Technica 5-Cup Glass Syphon Coffee Maker https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000IKLQZK/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_IEx1DbVGF521B
$30 is a great deal
I've had coffee from a variant of this called the siphon:
http://www.amazon.com/Hario-Technica-5-Cup-Coffee-Syphon/dp/B000IKLQZK
For me it makes the best cup of coffee among all the different brewing methods. I get a cup from the shop from time to time but don't make it at home. There's no way I could pull this off in the morning.
This is the order page for the syphon, but none of the suggested items link to the burner which looks much more awesome than the alcohol burner that it comes with.
Link: http://amzn.com/B000IKLQZK
There is meditation effect you get when you make your own coffee. Its also the way to ensure you get the best coffee. After its been brewed you have about 20 minutes before most of the flavor is gone. Here's what I do.
https://www.amazon.com/Hario-Ceramic-Coffee-Dripper-White/dp/B000P4D5HG/ref=mp_s_a_1_8?keywords=pour.+over+coffee+makers&amp;qid=1566559834&amp;s=gateway&amp;sr=8-8
Try it black first, try to just enjoy the flavor. Then if you must try putting in some milk if you want. Id strongly recommend against sugar but to each their own
I dont think you'll find one easily. Plastic is just so much easier to make those moving parts with..
This though... I am a fan of.
http://www.amazon.com/Hario-VDC-02W-Dripper-Ceramic-Funnel/dp/B000P4D5HG/ref=pd_sim_k_6
Not quite the same but it makes a damn good cup of coffee.
IMO I think you can get better bang for your bucks, all possible with a cheaper price tag -- I've assembled a list assuming a pour over kit. Obviously you would want to get a dripper. Now, there are a lot of different kinds out there (even within the same product line e.g. plastic vs ceramic construction), amongst which the popular ones would be the Hario V60 and the Melitta, the Beehouse included. For the kettle, you can get the Bonavita Variable GooseNeck for $60 now at Amazon (it's a steal!), or the Stovetop version for $20 less. The Bonavita allows the user to manipulate the temperature much more precisely, and thus ensures more consistent consecutive cups of coffee. To be even more precise, get a scale. I have owned the Hario Slim Mill for some time now, and with some simple modification, it can grind some pretty darn consistent grinds! I think altogether this will sum total to at most the same price. And above all, make sure you buy him freshly roasted beans!
This and this for starters?
Get this and these filters for doing pourover.
You might also want this grinder, unless you want to have your local shop grind for you as well, which they will. Tell them you're grinding for pourover so they'll know how coarse.
If you decide to also get the presspot, you'll need to grind differently for that, which is why I recommend buying the grinder also. Not to mention, it's super helpful to be able to grind your own, so you can dial in your brews. Additionally, whole beans stay fresh longer than ground coffee. You'll definitely notice a difference between fresh ground and the very end of a bag of ground coffee.
All you need other than that is a way to heat water, and some beans. Do you have a kettle of some sort? Stovetop or electric will work. You want to avoid using your keurig to make hot water, as it doesn't get hot enough.
Get one of these
http://www.amazon.com/Medelco-12-Cup-Stovetop-Whistling-Kettle/dp/B000V5X826/ref=sr_1_16?s=home-garden&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1416428586&amp;sr=1-16&amp;keywords=chemex
and one of these
http://www.amazon.com/Hario-VDC-02W-Ceramic-Coffee-Dripper/dp/B000P4D5HG/ref=sr_1_3?s=home-garden&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1416428625&amp;sr=1-3&amp;keywords=hario
I have recently invested in some budget coffee equipment for making pour over coffee (iced and hot):
Questions:
Standard coffee cooling too quick. Should I heat up full decanter and my cup before brewing? Or should I just get a ceramic dripper and save the decanter for iced coffee?
My coffee enthusiast friend told me to use spring water and what a difference it has made! That being said, I'd like to avoid wasting it as much as possible. Would it be gross to use near boiling spring water to heat up decanter and cup, then pour it back into the jug with other spring water? Any other advice for using non-tap water?
I've got a pretty high quality dorm setup that is approved. Here are your options:
Option 1:
Hario ETL Certified Kettle
Hario V60
Filters
Hario Skim Grinder
Total: $119
Option 2:
Aeropress
Proctor-Silex Water Kettle
Hario Skim Grinder
Total: $66
Currently, I'm using the first setup. The v60 is a great pourover method. You'll be having the best coffee on campus. However, since it requires the gooseneck kettle it runs a greater price. Last year, I had option. The aeropress is a kick-ass coffee maker, and you can get by with the way cheaper water heater since pour method has no factor on the brew. Either way, you'd have the small hand grinder which is cheap, easy to clean, and does a fantastic job.
Either of these will make a solid cup, better than anything you'll find in a keurig.
I'm more of a novice than most of the users on this sub, but here is what I can recommend in terms of good ratio of quality to price (and keeping it below $100).
Grinder: Hario Mini Mill
Brew method: Hario V60
That's $50 right there, and it'll put you well past the quality of the Keurig once you do even a decent pour. You'll also need to blow ~20 bucks on a kettle, ~5 bucks on a pack of filters, and then you have to do your own research on finding beans that work for you.
Small edit: Definitely need to recommend getting kitchen scale so you can be measuring your grounds to water ratio more accurately.
Harios can be less than 20 bucks Seems like a reasonable cost for an experiment. If you're not into it, pass it on!
Also, are you using a gooseneck kettle and coffee scale? Good things to have around.
All you need is this (and filters)
Ceramic is only $15, filters are ~ $7 for 100. And you can just brew onto a 32 or 16 ounce glass mason jar if you don't want to buy a hario carafe. Fits well on a scale.
http://www.amazon.com/Hario-VDC-02W-Ceramic-Coffee-Dripper/dp/B000P4D5HG
Well this is gonna get kinda long and will only scratch the surface but I'll break down the pros and cons of some of the most popular entry-level gear in as un-confusing of a way as I can. First up, let's look at grinders.
First off, you want a burr grinder, particularly a conical burr grinder because those blender-y blade grinders they sell at wal-mart for $5 don't get any kind of a consistent grind. Varying sizes in a grind means varying levels of extraction in the cup and that means off flavors. Because burr grinders are more expensive, hand crank conical burr grinders are commonly recommended to beginners because of their lower price point compared to similar quality electrics. They're cheap and work well but do have some drawbacks beyond the extra effort involved in grinding. First, most of them don't have actual grind settings and you adjust the grind size by twisting a wheel until it looks as fine/coarse as you want it to. If you use different brew methods and switch grind size a lot, this can be a bit of a pain. Second, most hand grinders aren't ideal for french press because of the way the burrs are stabilized; they'll give fantastic fine/medium grinds but the coarse grind is a tad inconsistent. That said, I use a hand grinder for french press all the time and am relatively happy with the results. A few common ones are:
The Hario Skerton. I personally have one and love it. As I said, not perfect for french press but it's a durable daily driver that never lets me down and can do an espresso grind damn near as well as a $300 baratza
The hario mini is essentially the same grinder in a different, smaller package. Perfect for travel
The porlex JP-30 is a tad more expensive but has grind settings that, while unmarked, do "click" into place making adjusting grind coarseness a bit easier
If you wanted to go the electric route, I've seen refurbished Baratza encore grinders for around $100. This will give you a mediocre espresso grind but a perfect and much easier drip and french press grind
Next up: preparation methods
French presses use a metal mesh filter, which gives you all of the oils in the cup and lets a tiny bit of really fine coffee solids through, which gives the cup a rich, full-bodied, velvety character They're also very easy to use as there's pretty much one accepted way to brew in them. And here's Philly's own Todd Carmichael demonstrating it. As far as which one to buy, they're all pretty much the same: a glass tube with a stick in it and some mesh on the end of the stick. I like my sterlingpro a lot but the bodum chambord is hugely popular and looks just as nice. Even a cheapo will do the job just as well, though, even if it doesn't look as nice.
pourovers do essentially the same thing as a drip coffee machine just with a lot more input from you, which is good because all but the most ludicrously expensive drip machines are very inconsistent and don't work as well as just doing it your own damn self. With a pourover, you're going to use a kettle or measuring cup with a spout to pour the water over the grounds in a set amount of time (3-4 minutes depending on the grind size) and usually in a very specific manner. Because these use a paper filter, there are no oils or insoluble solids in the cup so the coffee is clearer, tastes cleaner and usually a bit brighter than french press coffee. Popular models include the Hario v60 which is one of the more finicky models. If you decide on one of these, be sure to use a gooseneck kettle like Mr. Carmichael was using in the french press video above. Slightly more forgiving are the kalita wave and the melitta both of which would work fine with a normal kettle so long as it has some type of pour spout. If you want something with very thick filters, so as to produce a very clear cup, and also looks very nice, the chemex is a beautiful thing that produces great coffee, has a built-in carafe, and can make more than one cup at a time. Really more of a replacement for a large-volume drip machine than most pourovers.
The Aeropress is an absurdly popular, extremely versatile, and very well priced coffee brewer which is essentially a huge syringe with a paper filter instead of a needle. There's a thousand recipes online with different ways to use it, all of which produce a different cup.
Also worth noting is that you may want a kettle with temperature control, coffee should be brewed at 195-205F, so knowing what temp your water is helps reduce a lot of the headaches of cooling off boiled water for a vague amount of time. This bonavita is a little on the pricey side but has temp control and a gooseneck, which is always useful
The typical recommended r/coffee starter kit is an aeropress ($33) and a grinder like this one ($29). I think that the grinder and something to brew it in are the two most important components. Get those before a kettle. If you want to get something a little cheaper, maybe start with a french press (could be had for around $20) or a pourover ($22). You won't be able to do a precise pourover without a kettle, though. And if you absolutely need to stay under $15, this exists for $12. In theory, you could boil water then pour it into a measuring cup or something like that and then do your pourover. I used one of those before I knew anything about coffee. I haven't touched it since I got an aeropress and I just bought a chemex for pourover. So, it's not going to be the best option, and you may be looking to replace it later. That said, if you're on a strict budget now and you don't see that changing in the future... it exists. But if you think it's a hobby you'll stick with, get something nice now so you don't end up spending more later and throwing away your first item. Anything less than a v60/french press won't be "good", but will produce coffee.
If you're looking to just brew yourself a cup a day or if you're the only one going to be drinking it, you could totally go with a Hario V60 and buy yourself a cheap little gooseneck kettle (not terribly necessary but adds convenience)
https://www.amazon.com/Hario-VDC-02W-Ceramic-Coffee-Dripper/dp/B000P4D5HG
You can just pop it on top of a mug and brew direct!
Hario pour over filters and Ceramic Funnel. A grinder. A sauce pan to heat your water in. I've never bothered with buying the gooseneck kettle. A steady hand when pouring out of the sauce pan works fine for me, just remember to barely soak the grounds and then let them sit for a minute before pouring more water through. It's a very cheap set up that makes the best coffee I've ever had. Yes, it would be great to have a bur grinder, but I was given a $30 "blender" grinder from Target for Christmas and it works great. All you have to do is learn to slowly pour your water in. Probably around a $60 investment that you will not regret. If you want to learn more, just go to a local coffee house and ask them for a pour over cup of coffee and watch them. It never has a scorched taste, and it never turns out too strong like a press sometimes does for me. It's so damned simple that I've kicked myself for not learning it earlier.
Funnel can be found here.
There are some very affordable burr grinders out there, and it's worth the investment. You'll use it pretty much everyday. Hand grinders can be very cheap, and work great. Hario Skerton is a popular choice (I've seen it around for cheaper, but this is at least what's on amazon). Plenty of options, all varying in price. There's a pretty decent burr grinder from Kona I've used before, which I got for like $20.
But manual grinding can take some time. And if you're like me, and you want some quick coffee in the morning, then it's worth investing in an electric. There are some pretty decent electric burr grinders out there. You really don't have to pay a fortune. Here are a few cheap options:
Capresso Infinity
Bodum Bistro
Baratza Encore
But you can get far snobbier than just grind...
What kind of water are you using? Hopefully filtered, not tap. And definitely not distilled, since you want some of those minerals for flavor. Now, if you want to get even fancier, try using these mineral packets. I think each packet mixes in with 1 gallon of distilled water. I haven't tried it myself (I just use a brita) but I've heard good things. The quality of water makes a huge difference. This was the first "eureka" moment for me, when I moved from tap to filtered.
Next, how are you making your coffee? There are some great, cheap equipment out there. In this sub, here are some pretty cheap and popular choices:
Aeropress
Chemex
Pour-over
French press
We're getting pretty deep in the rabbit hole, right? Not yet! How about measuring the weight of the coffee? Consistency is important. You need the same, proper coffee-to-water ratio for the best cup. You can find people debating over the best scales, some costing hundreds. I'd just get a cheap one if I were you. You can find some decent cheap ones from like $10 to $30. If you want the best bang for your buck, look into American Weigh Scales.
I guess I can mention temperature of water as well. You can get thermometers or even electric kettles with built-in thermometers (like this). I think temperature matters so much more for tea than coffee, but it's something you need to keep in mind for coffee as well.
Here's probably the most important thing, in my opinion: where are you getting your coffee? What is the roast date? Unless you're buying your coffee directly from the roaster, you're probably not buying freshly roasted beans. It makes a world of difference. Try finding a local roaster and getting your beans from them, freshly roasted.
I'm sure there's plenty of other ways you can splurge money on coffee, but I'll let you figure it out!
(edited to fix the links)
Not at the grocery store, and not at Charfucks. Ya gotta order it, ya herd? I gets mine from PT's Coffee in Topeka, but that's because it's close to me. Also because they won Best Coffee in 2009. If you're really interested, this is a great place to start. Any of these coffees will be good and fresh. Also, you need a burr grinder and a decent brewing method. The simplest one, which I use, is a conical-shaped glass or ceramic thing that you set right on top of your cup, made by Hario. You just put the coffee grounds in the filter and then pour boiling water over the grounds, and it drips right into your cup. Here it is in Amazon. Have fun!
You could individually brew two cups, but that sounds like a pain to do.
If you're interested, you could venture in to another pour over brewer like a Hario V60 or Kalita Wave which will make it easier to brew two cups at a time. You'd also have to purchase the corresponding filters.
EDIT:
Also, the info here suggests that the yield of the larger clever dripper is 16oz. How much coffee are you putting in when you brew for two people?
You can clip this pourover to the outside of your bag and bring as many filters as you need. Also, if your coffee is preground at a coffee shop you don't need to bother with a grinder. Not ideal, but still beats instant. There are collapsible versions of pourovers like this but they're not as cheap. The only issue is that the pourover "technique" is tricky without a proper kettle, but this setup will do it for the backcountry, I think.
Hario v60 has a plastic model that's my go to brew method. Very similar flavor profile to a chemex, since it's a pour over that uses paper filters, but you can play around with techniques, times, and temperatures a little more than with a Chemex. They're pretty cheap on Amazon, especially with Prime, and they don't break when you drop them.
Another option would be a Clever Coffee Dripper, which is somewhere between a pour over and a french press. It has a lot of the flavors you'd get out of a pour over, with more body, like you'd expect from a french press. Also plastic, also hard to break.
A pour over set up can be had for quite cheap.
Hario V60 Plastic Coffee Dripper, Size 02, Clear https://www.amazon.com/dp/B001RBTSMM/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_WcZ5AbRMPN9JG
Bonavita 1.0L Electric Kettle BV3825B https://www.amazon.com/dp/B005YR0GDA/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_TeZ5AbY1C3CZG
Hario V60 Paper Coffee Filters, Size 02, 100 Count, Natural https://www.amazon.com/dp/B001O0R46I/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_yfZ5Ab8GY8NBT
$5.67 + $6.21 + $29.34 = $41.16
I realize you’re using euros so it will be slightly different. And honestly if you got a different kettle you could cut out 10 or more dollars to get you into the ~30 USD range which from what I can tell would be saving you money. Just make sure it’s a gooseneck and keep in mind the fewer times you have to rebuy something the likely less cost efficient it is.
For even lower cost a plastic V60 ($7.30 https://smile.amazon.com/Hario-Plastic-Coffee-Dripper-Clear/dp/B001RBTSMM/). Brandless doesn't appear to have filter on their site, and when I look up the 3rd party ones they would use they appear to be even more expensive than V60 filters ($8.62 for 80). https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B001U7EOYA/ (100 count, white, tabbed, $6.40 for 100).
Edit: as far as quality I imagine it's identical to the Melitta pour over and it takes the same filters. Ceramic tends to suck a lot of heat out so it'll need a good preheat - a plastic brewer won't need as much of one. It's a good deal on a ceramic brewer but I wouldn't look at ceramic as being "better" in order to justify that deal.
V60 (amazon): https://www.amazon.com/Hario-Plastic-Coffee-Dripper-Clear/dp/B001RBTSMM/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1541449217&amp;sr=8-1&amp;keywords=hario+v60+plastic
Grinder (amazon): https://www.amazon.com/Hario-MSS-1DTB-Ceramic-Coffee-Mini-Slim/dp/B01GPMH590/ref=sr_1_7?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1541449268&amp;sr=8-7&amp;keywords=hario+skerton
With a v60, one of these kettles would help a lot too (something similar is perfectly okay too, but pay attention to the skinny spout: https://www.amazon.com/Bonavita-BV382510V-Variable-Temperature-Gooseneck/dp/B005YR0F40/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1541449338&amp;sr=8-3&amp;keywords=bonavita+variable+kettle
And coffee all depends on local roasters in your area, but they put the regions on the bags, so just find some ones from africa, or focus on tasting notes they list.
Hope this helps!
I got hooked on them last time I was in SF. Basically a slower way to make coffee by manually pouring water from a kettle onto grounds with a filter. It's a pretty simple process but it obviously takes more time to do than the coffee you get at Tims, and for some reason it's "hipster" right now, so it's like $4-5 a cup at most places in SF.
If you're willing to do it yourself though, it's actually really cheap. I have one of these. It's under $10, which is probably one of the cheapest ways to brew coffee.
I've found it has a more intense taste than regular drip coffee, but usually along with the extra time/attention to brew it comes extra time/attention in picking better, and fresher beans, so the improved taste could just be the beans.
Coffee has a lot of interesting natural flavors, and you can easily and inexpensively step up your coffee game for even better coffee that has it's own nutty or caramel notes, that will be even tastier than Starbucks or Duncan Donuts. :)
Honestly though the great thing is you can pick ONE of these things and have better coffee, and each thing you do will improve your cup. And then you can go to /r/coffee and go down the rabbit hole of "the perfect cup". I'm kind of a coffee-snob poser: I get my beans from Trader Joe's and don't own a grinder. But what I get from my French Press is miles ahead of what I used to drink, it allowed me to cut out sugar or sweeteners.
You are absolutely correct that coffee shouldn't be bitter. Generally, he shouldn't buy French roast, but anything in the light or even medium roast range should not be noticeably bitter. If it's too strong, he should just change the water to coffee ratio until it works for him. A good cup of coffee should be mellow and somewhat sweet even without cream and sugar.
Obviously everything tastes better if you add fat and a sweetener of some sort, though. I like heavy cream and ez-sweets, but before Keto I just drank it straight and was perfectly happy.
Cold brew is delicious, but expensive to brew in sufficient quantities to replace a 2-3 cup a day coffee habit, since you have to use something like 1:3 water/coffee. If you drink 24oz of coffee a day, that's a 12oz bag of beans every day and a half.
A lot of people like Aeropress, I find it cumbersome. Same with Chemex. I would ignore these, unless you want to deep dive into coffee purism.
Last year I switched from a french press to a Hario dripper and I'm very happy with it. I would say the quality is slightly preferable to me, though they're in the same ballpark. The process is slightly easier, and the cleanup is trivial (since you have a paper filter). A Hario is like $9, 100 filters are like $5.
https://www.amazon.com/Hario-Glass-Coffee-Server-700ml/dp/B001V7DBMA is 13 bucks
https://www.amazon.com/Hario-Ceramic-Coffee-Dripper-White/dp/B001RBTSMM is 8 bucks
https://www.amazon.com/Hario-Paper-Coffee-Filters-Count/dp/B001U7EOYA is 6 bucks
&#x200B;
you can always buy it separately.
something simple like this or this?
you can make a casual cup with the syphon. I have never tried folgers or anything with mine, but i do use the pre-ground dunkin donuts coffee for a quick 'i just want some coffee'. the key to the syphon is how long you leave it brewing before removing it from the heat.
The bonavita gooseneck variable.... again (sorry :) )
I woudl say either use your basic kettle and a thermometer (cheap one like this Weber instant read) for minimal money or get the gooseneck variable.
The variability will be great for your aeropress and pourover is super cheap and fun to try (the plastic hario v60 02 is under $8) for which the gooseneck is key. No point spending $50 on the variable normal then spending another $100 later on the gooseneck. Likewise gooseneck metal kettles are also $50. The $100 one really is the best upgrade, better to save longer for it than buy an interim and end up spending more.
The Bonavita is also on massdrop a lot (bookmark this) as while it ended for now it comes up all the time.
http://www.amazon.com/Hario-VD-02T-Coffee-Dripper-Clear/dp/B001RBTSMM
I'd like to add a siphon brewer into the mix. To me, this is the best of both worlds. While I do enjoy a good cup of french press once in a while, it is typically a lot thicker than your standard drip coffee. On the other hand, drip makers offer little in the way of control, and you tend to end up with something weak and thin. With a siphon brewer, you get both the control and a cup of coffee that really has a full body. You have to play around a bit to get the feel for how to do it just right, but you need to do that with a french press as well.
Others might say Chemex is another option for a good compromise, but I've never used one, so I don't know. When I want to make coffee for my wife and I on the weekend, I always go to the siphon pot. Well, until I broke it the other day, but the replacement is coming soon.
PROTIP - don't keep the stove on high after the water has moved to the top part of the device. Turn it to low or off. I kept it on high, smelled burning glass, then removed it quickly only to lose the entire bottom portion of the pot. This can happen on a drip machine as well if you keep it on for too long with nothing in the pot.
You can get a vacuum brewer cheaper than many automatic coffee machines http://www.amazon.com/Yama-Glass-Stovetop-Coffee-Siphon/dp/B002CVTKW4
$46
anybody know where to get that actual vacuum/siphon coffee maker? because they sell them for a lot less than OP posted: link but none of them ever look the same
http://www.amazon.com/Glass-Stovetop-Coffee-Siphon-Syphon/dp/B002CVTKW4/ref=pd_bxgy_k_img_z
I forgot. You can make siphon coffee on a stove top. I didn't think of this because I have an induction cook top and can't use this unless I have an induction plate to cook with non metal materials. Plus, an open flame looks better =)
http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B002CVTKW4/ref=redir_mdp_mobile
It's very finicky and I suggest you do alot of research, use good coffee, use the right grind, timing and patience to get it right. The coffee also changes flavor as it cools. It's great.
Let me know what you end up doing. Keep me posted =)
The thing is, french press makes a totally different cup than say, a drip machine. It will have much more body from the oils in the beans and also it will inevitably have some grit. The best way to avoid grit is to invest in a really good grinder that is consistent. Or you can just let it settle to the bottom of the cup and not drink that portion.
So really to make the best french press possible you need to invest a lot of money. Fresh press is great but I wouldn't call it the gold standard, it is just one of the many ways to make coffee. Drip machines can make great coffee if you spend a lot of money, like a Technivorm.
If you are satisfied with the coffee you make in a french press without investing in an expensive grinder, go for it. In my opinion, the Aeropress makes a damn decent cup of coffee without the expensive grinder - it is much more forgiving when it comes to grind inconsistency.
From America's Test Kitchen Season 14: Oatmeal Muffins and Granola
NOTE: I originally posted a slightly less detailed review of these coffee makers in March or April 2013 but they have been re-tested so I am posting this more detailed review, the old post has been deleted. The youtube video review is not the same as the (updated) one on the ATK website, but the Winning and Best Buy models are the same. ~OP
**
WINNER
Rated as HIGHLY RECOMMENDED:
Technivorm Moccamaster 10-Cup Coffee Maker with Thermal Carafe - $229.00
> Certified by the SCAA, the updated version of our old favorite (the KBT 741, now also $299) meets time and temperature guidelines with utter consistency. As a result, it produces a “smooth,” “velvety” brew. It’s also intuitive to use. The carafe lost some heat after 2 hours but still kept the coffee above 150 degrees.
**
BEST BUY
Rated as HIGHLY RECOMMENDED:
Bonavita 8-Cup Coffee Maker with Thermal Carafe - $149.00
> Simple to use and SCAA-certified, this brewer spends most of the cycle in the ideal temperature range. Its coffee had “bright,” “full” flavor that was a bit more “acidic” than the Technivorm’s. The widemouthed carafe is easy to clean, but there’s no brew-through lid; you must remove the brew basket and screw on a separate lid to keep coffee hot.
**
Rated as RECOMMENDED:
Bunn HT Phase Brew 8-Cup Thermal Carafe Coffee Maker - $139.99
> This SCAA-certified pot heats the water completely before releasing it over the grounds. That explained its impressive temperature accuracy, though the coffee was somewhat “acidic.” (Note: Early versions of this model shorted out when home voltage fluctuated; Bunn states that it has solved this problem, and our machine worked fine.)
**
Five others were NOT RECOMMENDED:
--
> By prescribing far less than the SCAA-recommended amount of grounds, this machine brewed “dishwater.” Adding the right amount of coffee for a full pot caused the grounds to overflow the filter and gunk up the brew basket. Other design flaws: The basket’s side drawer must be pulled out completely to fill—annoying if your counter is crowded—and its reservoir acquired a musty smell we couldn’t eradicate.
For drip coffee, I'm told this is the bees knees: http://www.amazon.com/Technivorm-Moccamaster-Coffee-Brewer-Thermo/dp/B002S4DI2S/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1318801619&amp;sr=8-1
Something about the temperature it gets to, the spray of water, etc.
But I'm not spending the $300 needed to make that good coffee at work.
Unless they have expressed a desire to do something different, I don't really think so. They're probably just fine with what they have.
If you're dead set on getting them a nicer brewer, then that probably wouldn't be a bad idea - but it sounds like they like their coffee the way it is?
Getting them a [technivorm moccamaster] (https://www.amazon.com/Moccamaster-10-Cup-Coffee-Thermal-Polished/dp/B002S4DI2S) would be a saintly thing ; but are you sure you don't just want one for yourself?
I recently purchased the Technivorm Moccamaster and Baratza Sette 30 Conical Burr Grinder as replacements for my worn-out Cuisinart grinder and Brew Central coffee maker. So far, I am very pleased with the improvements in taste and quality of coffee I’ve brewed.
Technivorm Moccamaster KBT 79112 Coffee Brewer, 40 oz, Polished Silver https://www.amazon.com/dp/B002S4DI2S/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_wfa9BbNMGHNFG
Baratza Sette 30 Conical Burr Grinder https://www.amazon.com/dp/B075G11F9N/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_uga9BbFVB7F7T
The National Coffee Association says:
>Your brewer should maintain a water temperature between 195 - 205 degrees Fahrenheit for optimal extraction. Colder water will result in flat, underextracted coffee while water that is too hot will also cause a loss of quality in the taste of the coffee.
Further,
>If it will be a few minutes before it will be served, the temperature should be maintained at 180 - 185 degrees Fahrenheit.
Just because most home brewers don't have the capability to do this doesn't mean it's correct. The Technivorm Moccamaster and Bonavita BV1800 both have capabilities to brew at optimum temperature, as well as two other home models which are certified by the Specialty Coffee Association of America.
I think I'll trust their judgment and advice over Cracked.
Hey, please simplify that amazon link (to https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B002S4DI2S/). For one thing, it has an affiliate tag in it, which is not allowed in /r/coffee. Thanks!
The aesthetics look really awesome. I've seen many dutch coffee devices being used in South Korea. Like this one from Amazon
https://www.amazon.com/Yama-Glass-Maker-Straight-Black/dp/B004EBUZ1A/ref=pd_sim_79_6?ie=UTF8&amp;dpID=41tRrVDoWJL&amp;dpSrc=sims&amp;preST=_AC_UL160_SR160%2C160_&amp;psc=1&amp;refRID=D620MKJ5734WVNBTRF3Q
Most of them are big (which may be good for displays in coffee shops), and like you said, the openings allow dust and air to enter. I think that's why these dutch coffee tasted so acidic from being oxidized. Have you guys tested if your coffee is less acidic than regular dutch coffee since there's less oxidation?
As a Korean, I think one of the biggest up-sell is that it prevents "dust" from entering. Korea is currently suffering "micro dust" problem and they are obsessed with preventing dust in any possible way. The fact that this prevents dust and purifies water, it could be a huge up-sell there.
In the future, do you guys plan on making larger version for commercial use? Like at coffee shops? Will you guys ever export to Korea?
EDIT: Haha, I just realized this was being made in Korea after reading Amazon product page.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=71&amp;v=4czF1u4tixo
Does he like cold brew?
https://www.amazon.com/Yama-Glass-Maker-Straight-Black/dp/B004EBUZ1A
Perhaps a really cool science-lab-looking iced-tea maker like this one? Northwest Glass makes a much larger version (about 3-4 feet tall) that is very impressive in person and would be suitable for a tea cafe.
That cold brew science-looking experiment is the Yama and it's for sale on Amazon, as well as other outlets when you know the name. But amazon is easiest for me to link as I already looked it up. My local coffee shop uses ice water in the reservoir.
25 cup model for $479
6-8 cup model for $269
Something like this
It's capable of making concentrate that you can cut with milk/water or just straight drinking strength coffee.
You could make a batch before opening and brew more as the day progresses based on the expected number of customers. It's really mesmerising to watch!
Amazon, my friend:
http://www.amazon.com/Yama-Northwest-Glass-32-Ounce-Coffee/dp/B004EBUZ1A
I've had my eye on one for some time. Can't quite justify it, though..
Drinking lapsang souchong from Red Blossom Tea; it's starting to grow on me more although I'll admit I definitely prefer later brews to the first brew.
No tea-specific gifts this year, which I'm OK with because I'm very picky. Someone who knows me well would usually just ask what I like/want (clearly I've had more than a handful of bad surprises, hah).
My favorite gift by far is a homemade version of this drip tower. I'll upload if I get around to taking pictures! I'm not really sure if I could use this for tea (this is for cold brew coffee, my favorite style), but I am SO happy witih it. Handmade thoughtful gifts are the best. :)
Just get a beaker and have a glass worker add them if you cant find them else where. Or there is always a way to buy a pre-made system: http://www.amazon.com/Yama-Northwest-Glass-32-Ounce-Coffee/dp/B004EBUZ1A .
If you're going to break your budget and Dad is all about convenience, start him off with some good quality coffee and this.
http://www.amazon.com/Bonavita-BV1800TH-Coffee-Thermal-Carafe/dp/B005YQZNO8/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1406947772&amp;sr=8-1&amp;keywords=bona+vita+coffee+maker
It's 134.99 on Amazon in the US right now.
Bonavita BV1800TH 8-Cup Coffee Maker with Thermal Carafe https://www.amazon.com/dp/B005YQZNO8/ref=cm_sw_r_udp_awd_obX7tb0XHQ3DP
Agreed. What do you brew with at home? I recently semi-retired my french press in favor of one of these drip machines: http://www.amazon.com/Bonavita-BV1800TH-Coffee-Thermal-Carafe/dp/B005YQZNO8/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1398877808&amp;sr=8-1&amp;keywords=bonavita
I LOVE it and I never thought I could love drip coffee again.
I was curious about this, so I did a little research in looking for the best drip brewer.
Eventually, I found my to this site, which seems to list brewers that pass a certain standard of coffee volume, brew time, brew temperature, etc.
In addition, I found this video, which I also found interesting, as their top 3 machines were also on the SCAA list.
Those three are:
I hope this helps.
http://www.amazon.com/Bonavita-BV1800TH-Coffee-Thermal-Carafe/dp/B005YQZNO8/ref=sr_1_2?s=kitchen&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1381591149&amp;sr=1-2&amp;keywords=drip+coffee
Second what /u/oleander725 said. The /r/coffee wiki has a gear by price section that lists the three SCAA certified drip machines. The 2 that pop up here the most are the
Edit:
There's also the Lance Larkin BE 112 Brew Express
My two cents if you're saving up for quality:
For $100-200 you can buy a proper coffee maker, such as a Bonavita BVA1800TH which should run you roughly $125-150 and will actually get the water hot enough and spread it with a shower head to make properly extracted coffee, and it comes with a thermal carafe.
If you aren't going to drink all of the coffee that you're putting into it right away, avoid the carafe heater and get something thermal. It's best to stay away from glass carafes and carafe heaters.
If you don't care about any of that, this looks like a good deal.
I don't know the 1900 but I have the 1800 specifically this model
http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B005YQZNO8/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?qid=1421038774&amp;sr=8-1&amp;pi=AC_SY200_QL40&amp;dpPl=1&amp;dpID=41rroX5%2B3fL&amp;ref=plSrch
The inside of the carafe is glass and the lid is plastic, I never get any off taste. It makes damn good coffee for a drip. Not quite a Technivorm, but still awesome.
so does anyone have one of these or have any insight? considering pulling the trigger at $129.
edit: glass carafe version is only $149 on amazon so this isn't an insane deal
They also make a glass carafe version of that, but it looks like in this video they're only considering the insulated ones. I prefer a glass carafe with heater because I despise coffee that's less than hot and I sometimes drink it over a long period of time.
http://www.amazon.com/Bonavita-BV1800-8-Cup-Coffee-Carafe/dp/B005YQZT92
yeah, but as a certifiable coffee snob I feel obligated to point out that the most common kind of coffee maker is not very good at its job in the price range most people expect to pay. Here's mine.
Coffee is awesome. I need more.
I've heard the Technivorms are among the best, but also some of the most expensive. I've got a Bonavita on the way (birthday gift next weekend!) which is sort of the cheaper version of the technivorm. I asked this exact question on Metafilter a few months ago, here is that thread. In it someone linked to a video breakdown of drip coffeepots from America's Test Kitchen, and one of the most important factors they brought up was a 1400W power supply to heat the water to the correct temperature. Basically, most home pots don't get the water hot enough, nor do they maintain the temperature with any kind of steadiness, which results in crummy coffee. The one that DOES that, was the Technivorm (or, like I said, the cheaper Bonavita), both of them have 1400W heating elements to get the water at the right temp. I'll let you know how the Bonavita works out for me.
http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B005YQZT92?pc_redir=1408028574&amp;robot_redir=1
Check that out.
I doubt I would have agreed with this comment so much a year ago. But, then I bought the Bonavita (basically this with a glass carafe). And, I use the scoop from my Aeropress - 1 scoop of finely ground coffee for each cup I'm making.
I finally have strong coffee at home that is easy to make.
It's made all the difference!
The bonavita 1800 is close to that price range. Or in it, maybe, I don't know what the exchange rate is right now
Have you tried one of these? This thing
Just buy a plastic cone, a grinder, and #4 filters. Buy beans in bulk and make coffee at the cheapest and best rate.
It is the cheapest and best quality/taste/speed/temperature/bother ratio
I would suggest a plastic v60 for $8 would be a better next choice.
-Pyrex dishes/bowls with plastic lids are really convenient for meal preps.
-[A butter dish ] (https://www.amazon.com/Miles-Kimball-Green-Depression-Butter/dp/B00G2G40S4%3FSubscriptionId%3DAKIAILSHYYTFIVPWUY6Q%26tag%3Dduckduckgo-ffab-20%26linkCode%3Dxm2%26camp%3D2025%26creative%3D165953%26creativeASIN%3DB00G2G40S4) is always a good idea! Keeps butter spreadable and handy, right on the kitchen counter. Best to use salted butter, which keeps longer at room temp.
-A [Microplane ] (https://www.amazon.com/Microplane-40020-Classic-Zester-Grater/dp/B00004S7V8%3Fpsc%3D1%26SubscriptionId%3DAKIAILSHYYTFIVPWUY6Q%26tag%3Dduckduckgo-ffab-20%26linkCode%3Dxm2%26camp%3D2025%26creative%3D165953%26creativeASIN%3DB00004S7V8) is a good tool for finely shredding parmesan and other hard cheeses, zesting citrus fruits and any other fine grating. Not the most practical gift for everyone but I've gotten a lot of use out of one.
-Order some coconut oil for her, or any other keto-approved oil so she starts off on the right track, with the right fats.
-I really like reusing bacon grease, which she can put through a coffee filter in a [ pour-over coffee maker, ] (https://www.amazon.com/Tanors-700443183734-Ceramic-Coffee-Dripper/dp/B00JNZ7VNW%3Fpsc%3D1%26SubscriptionId%3DAKIAILSHYYTFIVPWUY6Q%26tag%3Dduckduckgo-ffab-20%26linkCode%3Dxm2%26camp%3D2025%26creative%3D165953%26creativeASIN%3DB00JNZ7VNW0 or rest a coffee filter in the mouth of a mason jar
Nobody will think a pour over is sacrilege. Provided you're not using a blade grinder. . . :) Brew methods are a matter of taste. A french press isn't better or worse than a Chemex; it's just different. If you're going pour over, these are way better than these, because they're a true cone, so the water has to go through all the grounds.
You can buy beans online, but if possible it's best to buy locally roasted coffee to ensure freshness. Coffee is at its best around a week after roasting, and gradually loses flavor over time. Chances are you've got a decent roaster in your area. If not, look around online, and make sure you buy from a place that will tell you when yours was roasted.
And feel free to keep asking questions. I'm happy to tell you what I know.
Get something like this. I use a plastic one, for convenience it is amazing, it just takes a #2 filter.
This isn't a french press, it's a ceramic single coffee brewer so I can't just time how long the beans brew but I can draw out how long I pour the water.
So just curious: is there any real difference in what a Chemex makes and what this makes? Are all pour over devices created equally and the Chemex is just a fancy looking one?
As others have said this doesn't work today and won't work in the future unless Nespresso makes an Alexa skill (they would be stupid not to but don't count on it).
Further as others have said the most expedient thing to do is buy a switch coffee maker and a smart switch
There are Alexa capable coffee makers like this one https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00LUFSSWG/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_awdb_gsICybHAQH0YH
But given that it's no longer available I can't say how good it is/was.
I'm more of a coffee drinker but you could probably still use this:
https://www.amazon.com/Mr-Coffee-Wifi-Enabled-Coffeemaker-BVMC-PSTX91WE/dp/B00LUFSSWG/
Just run it without coffee in it and you have a carafe full of hot water. I could measure how hot it comes out I guess but coffee is generally brewed ~180F ish
Nice thing is it reports states (Refill Water, Replace Carafe, etc.) so you can have it send reminders to refill it before you go to bed etc
I think the DIY path of least resistance is to get a Sonoff and flash it (requires extremely basic soldering), and mod that to the AC cable of a kettle that will turn on when electricity is applied.
It's already out. http://www.amazon.com/Mr-Coffee-Wifi-Enabled-Coffeemaker-BVMC-PSTX91WE/dp/B00LUFSSWG
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Smarter-SMKET01-Generation-iKettle-Silver/dp/B06W2MJ46Y/
https://www.amazon.com/AIMOX-Stainless-Smartphone-Temperature-Teakettles/dp/B01EJGOGT6
https://www.amazon.com/Mr-Coffee-Wifi-Enabled-Coffeemaker-BVMC-PSTX91WE/dp/B00LUFSSWG/
There are other options as well. I don't know offhand if the apps already support automatic starting based on GPS co-ordinates, but I expect it would be technically feasible.
They exist already. I have three.
http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00LUFSSWG/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?qid=1458346673&amp;sr=8-1&amp;pi=SY200_QL40&amp;keywords=wemo+coffee+maker&amp;dpPl=1&amp;dpID=417ong1eCgL&amp;ref=plSrch
Bonavita Immersion Dripper. Although I've not made such a large batch. It should be able to hold that much and brew fine in pour over mode.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00MFJX7P4
I got my Zoji here on my desk. It's 1.75". The inner inset diameter of the bottom of the Bonavita was just large enough to not sit evenly with my thermos requiring me to buy a stand. Perhaps you have a different Bonavita model? What does the bottom of yours look like?
This is the bonavita I got: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00MFJX7P4/ref=sxr_rr_xsim_1?pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&amp;pf_rd_p=3008523062&amp;pd_rd_wg=HlA0g&amp;pf_rd_r=Y1V7BVQT6NK4CK82G97B&amp;pf_rd_s=desktop-rhs-carousels&amp;pf_rd_t=301&amp;pd_rd_i=B00MFJX7P4&amp;pd_rd_w=TaBwS&amp;pf_rd_i=bonavita+brewer&amp;pd_rd_r=FB72JJBNV1TNA8WA3YS1&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1496160730&amp;sr=1
I have a bonvita immersion dripper which is twice the price of a normal clever dripper, but is also made out of ceramic instead of plastic (which I like...especially if I'm going to be pouring boiling water into the thing. To be fair however, the clever dripper is made out of medical grade plastic). Its my favorite way to brew, but can only make two cups max at a time. It also uses commonly found melitta #4 filters so that's a plus. I use a pretty coarse grind and it works very well.
Did you know Amazon will donate a portion of every purchase if you shop by going to smile.amazon.com instead? Over $50,000,000 has been raised for charity - all you need to do is change the URL!
Here are your smile-ified links:
porcelain brewer
This one from Jennings
---
^^i'm ^^a ^^friendly&nbsp;bot
You could probably get both if you get the BV1900TS . I just ordered that and the Baratza Encore for about $300 total, shipped!
After extensive research and posting, it came down to the Behmor Brazen Plus or the BV. The BV, seems to have a slight edge. Its probably the best home auto-drip coffee maker out there, right now, and its on the cheaper side of the SCA Certified Home Brewers
Take a look at this review listed under the Brazen, but its a comparison of both
On a side-note, this is probably the best review of anything I have ever seen, hands-down, ever. Also, if you live up in the moutains where boiling water is an issue, the Brazen is probably better.
I'm not familiar with that machine but it looks like just a regular drip coffee maker?
If you are making multiple cups of coffee I would recommend one of the popular drip machines. I like the Bonavita models, e.g. the Bonavita BV1900TS. (They also make a smaller model but I don't have any experience with it.)
I've already got a Zojirushi on the way! The one with a lid that doubles as a cup because I've heard the normal one keeps the coffee too warm to drink directly from the spout! That way I can pour it out, wait to cool for a bit and sip on it. Also better to pace my coffee drinking for the day.
I'm pretty resigned to ordering this coffee maker for now as I'm no expert. I've read that it's got the proper certifications to make a good cup and I honestly don't want to spend the time each day to make a cup of coffee by hand, especially if I want a big thermos full!
Get a Baratza Encore for your grinder and a Bonavita BV1900TS (or any other well-reviewed SCAA certified brewer) for your drip coffee.
Don't waste $1500 on a superautomatic.
Nothing of great quality does, keeping water at a constant high temperature makes the coffee taste far worse. If you want to try it yourself, let water boil for awhile, say a couple hours, let it cool down and try it.
Furthermore, why do you love how fast it brews, for the novelty of it or for some reason do you need that twelve cups in three minutes? What about five minutes? Sorry, this is something that has genuinely confused me for awhile, is there that much of a rush?
If you're fine not having your coffee in three minutes, but rather, say, six or seven, I'd look at this: https://www.amazon.com/Bonavita-BV1900TS-Carafe-Coffee-Stainless/dp/B00O9FO1HK/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1466631363&amp;sr=8-1&amp;keywords=bonavita+1900 . While I haven't personally tried it, I've done extensive research and ended up getting the more expensive Technivorm Moccamaster, but that's beside the point.
https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B00O9FO1HK/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_awdb_t1_5weyCb44H1FGP
https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B007F183LK/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_awdb_t1_NyeyCbQS70SYS
Edit: looks like the brewer is shipped from the US with that link. I did also find it at https://www.shopcoffee.co.uk/product/machines/home-domestic-coffee-machines/bonavita-coffee-machines/bonavita-8-cup-coffee-brewer-stainless-steel-thermal-carafe/
I use an aeropress at work, but there's really only two fresh coffee drinkers at my office and the other gent uses a french press.
When I make coffee for friends or family in larger quantities at home, I have a Bonavita 1900ts It's extremely consistent and has a bloom feature as well. If the 5 of you are cool splitting the cost, that's a great option.
The 1800ts is a little less expensive, doesn't have a bloom feature or a thermal carafe. Still a great option.
Just my .2c.
So something like the Bonavita BV1900TS 8-Cup might be our best bet?
What I meant by "outdated" is that they don't do testing especially quickly and a lot of the models that came out in the last six months to a year haven't been tested yet.
may i know the exact reason you need a timer? is it to get consistent brew everytime? if so you can get just that wth many coffee makers if your consistent with your grind size and amount..
you can use Bonavita brewer for consistent brew now at $130 https://www.amazon.com/Bonavita-BV1900TS-Carafe-Coffee-Stainless/dp/B00O9FO1HK
This http://www.amazon.com/Bonavita-BV1900TS-Carafe-Coffee-Stainless/dp/B00O9FO1HK machine is in the same price range and is well known/trusted in many coffee communities. Big issue in coffee machines is that the don't reach the proper temp for extraction. The bonavita definitely does while I'm not sure about the one you linked.
The tank says each cup is 5 oz. This is the brewer here.
It sounds like you're busy, but willing to spend a little bit of time and money to feed your new addiction. This is a good place to start!
To consistently brew good strong coffee, follow these steps:
I don't know anything about that grinder, but it is a burr grinder, so it's should be half-decent.
I'd say upgrade his brewing machine and buy him some really good beans. A $50 Mr. Coffee very likely doesn't even get the water up to a proper brewing temperature. This Bonavita would be a great step up.
Then there's tons of great coffee you could buy, whether a few single bags or a subscription. Blue Bottle is extremely well known and respected, but a little searching on this board will get you many other good recommendations also.
I'd honestly go for this instead of a French press after a grinder upgrade. Bonavita BV1900TS 8-Cup Carafe Coffee Brewer, Stainless Steel https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00O9FO1HK/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_2yHlyb5ENRWVV
It's a suped up me coffee and honestly probably just as good as a pour over set up.
Just FYI - that link/site recommends the OXO 12 cup coffee brewer. I purchased that brewer about a year ago and it was AWFUL! It was an awesome design, and made great coffee; but the electronics within the machine sucked. After about a half dozen brews it wouldn't brew properly. And this didn't just happen with one machine. OXO replaced this brewer THREE TIMES - and each machine ended up doing the same thing. DO NOT BUY THIS MACHINE!. I have a Bonavita coffee maker now (also recommended by the SCAA) and it works great.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00O9FO1HK/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&amp;psc=1
I would spend $100 and get the 8 cup. It will make great coffee, I love mine. https://www.amazon.com/gp/offer-listing/B00O9FO1HK/ref=dp_olp_all_mbc?ie=UTF8&amp;condition=all
I have been a huge fan or and supporter of the Behmor Brazen Plus. Some people feel that its too big, but I love how it looks and I really love how the boiling chamber is above the grounds. This means it doesn't have to pump the hot water up to the shower head (the pump area can get hard water build up that's hard to clean). The water merely gets to temp and then drops down through the shower head onto the grounds.
I have had mine for around 3 years and other than the occasional descaling it still works like the day I bought it. Behmor has great customer support and the build quality is amazing compared to the cuisinart's I had in the past.
&#x200B;
Just make sure to NOT buy the Behmor Connected. Most bad reviews are for that "smart" coffee maker.
You're in luck, as recently as three years ago no electric drip coffee maker for under $300 existed that could make a legitimately good cup of coffee. None of them could achieve the proper temperature needed for brewing.
However, in recent years Bonavita stepped up their game and produces several good models for under $200, all of which are certified by the SCAA (which is genuinely a big deal and pretty rare). I would specifically recommend the Bonavita BV1900TS which you can get on Amazon for $138.99. The only negative to it is that the carafe isn't particularly good so if you need the coffee to stay piping hot for hours this isn't a great option. If you're willing to pay a bit more but still under $200 another good option is the one of few other SCAA certified makers - the Behmor Brazen Plus which I personally am hoping to get from Santa.
I love my behmor brazen plus.
http://www.amazon.com/Behmor-Brazen-Temperature-Control-Coffee/dp/B00PKEYY8U
Glad this thread kept going. They're selling the Bonavita 5 cup on amazon for $74. Looks like a good price for a quality machine.
https://www.amazon.com/Bonavita-BV1500TS-Carafe-Coffee-Stainless/dp/B00SK5IXPQ/ref=sr_1_7?s=home-garden&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1518553268&amp;sr=1-7&amp;keywords=bonavita+8+cup+brewer
An espresso machine is not a simple thing to use, get her a good coffee machine like a bonavita
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00SK5IXPQ/ref=twister_B01D48R82C?_encoding=UTF8&amp;psc=1
I would reccomend a Bodum Travel Mug and a Bonavita BV1500TS coffee maker. I use a discontinued Bonavita coffee maker which is really good. Bonavita makes high quality products that are not crazy expensive.
Bonavita BV1500TS Review
Review 2
Look into the Bonavita 5-Cup. It is built in the same way as the 1900 that was already recommended, but it's within your price range. Some people have issues with the carafe, and it likely isn't SCAA certified because of the smaller brewing capacity.
Stumptown, Coava, and Water Avenue are all award winning roasters out of Portland. A good burr grinder will run you about $120. For my brewer I have been using this powerhouse for the past 5 years. Excellent brewer.
does this guy suffice?
https://www.amazon.com/Bonavita-BV1500TS-Carafe-Coffee-Stainless/dp/B00SK5IXPQ
Any specific reason why? Why do you suspect it has such a relatively low average review score on Amazon?
Also, if Bonavita, is the 5-cup size of equal brewing quality? It wasn't the specific model recommended by America's Test Kitchen and it doesn't appear on the SCA Certified list, either:
($59) Amazon: Bonavita 5-Cup One-Touch Coffee Maker Featuring Thermal Carafe, BV1500TS
25oz. batches is sufficient quantity for me.
&#x200B;
&#x200B;
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00SK5IXPQ/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&amp;psc=1
how is this for us? Bonavita 5-cup
If you're buying expensive coffee and really enjoy the taste of good coffee, I'd suggest either making pour-over coffee or french press coffee at home. There are even very good automatic pour over coffee makers. The relatively new Oxo automatic pour-over has unseated the Bonavita in many minds: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00YEYKK8U/ref=psdc_289745_t3_B00O9FO1HK
From the listed features:
It even first soaks the grounds, waits, and then pours the water over them. Pair this with a grinder and some good recently-roasted beans and the coffee you make at home will taste even better than what you'd buy at the coffee place and cost a fraction of what they charge.
Personally, I'm generally fine with an older Cuisinart single-cup brewer with one of the better store-bought grounds (Chock Full o Nuts or similar).
I don't really drink it for leisure or to slowly enjoy the taste. I do want a great tasting coffee but I also don't want to NOT like my coffee some day because I'm trying a bunch of types. I'm not big on surprises.
I just want to have good coffee and not worry. There's many more things to worry about.
I currently use this:
https://www.amazon.com/OXO-Barista-Brain-Coffee-Maker/dp/B00YEYKK8U
OXO Barista Brain 9 Cup Coffee Maker - $100
Turns out that we prefer burned coffee made in a cheap coffee maker. This was way too high end for us.
&#x200B;
SportDOG SDF-100A Invisible Fence System - $100
This is super easy to install yourself. 500 feet of wire and 75 flags are unused in the box. Lowe's & Home Depot sell wire and additional flags for cheap, should you need it. I installed this thing, tested it, and ended up rebuilding my fence before I bothered putting it on my dog to teach him how it works. If needed, you can pay me to install it or help you install it.
&#x200B;
I could use a Men's XL hybrid bike, so let me know if you think you might have something to trade.
The OXO brewers are both on sale right now.
Both are SCAA approved.
Someone recommended the baratza encore and a bonavita brewer. This is a spectacular recommendation, however, it sounds like you don’t want to weigh your beans. For this reason I would recommend the baratza virtuoso, which has a timer on it. This would require a small amount of work to figure out how many seconds of grinding equals the amount of beans you want, but once you know the time, you can set it and it’ll be consistent within 1-2 grams every time. It’s slightly more expensive, but if you get it refurbished you’ll definitely stay under your $300 budget.
Here’s some links:
baratza virtuoso
bonavita w/glass carafe per request
reusable filter that fits the bonavita
Edit:formatting
Awesome.
I can't seem to find any 1901bts machines out there, but I did find this: https://www.amazon.ca/Bonavita-BV1901PW-Coffee-Brewer-Black/dp/B074JPZWYR/ref=asc_df_B074JPZWYR/?tag=googlemobshop-20&amp;linkCode=df0&amp;hvadid=292963167295&amp;hvpos=1o2&amp;hvnetw=g&amp;hvrand=6513930224385818655&amp;hvpone=&amp;hvptwo=&amp;hvqmt=&amp;hvdev=m&amp;hvdvcmdl=&amp;hvlocint=&amp;hvlocphy=9000833&amp;hvtargid=pla-367326210865&amp;psc=1
What's the difference between the 1901bts and the BV1901PW?
https://www.amazon.com/Bonavita-BV1901PW-Metropolitan-One-Touch-Coffee/dp/B074JPZWYR?ref_=ast_bbp_dp
Couldn’t agree more. Just made my second pot with their Metropolitan (BV1901PW). Makes substantially better coffee than any other drip maker I’ve had. Picked one up on amazon for $68. Can’t beat it IMHO.
Bonavita Metropolitan
A real fan of this one: Bonavita BV1901PW Metropolitan One-Touch Coffee Brewer Length: 12.60" Width: 6.80" Height: 12.20" Black https://www.amazon.com/dp/B074JPZWYR/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_mS2RCbG92RZXN
You could also go for the Bonavita Metropolitan which wasn’t sent in for SCAA certification, therefore lowering the price. It comes with a glass carafe. It makes an absolutely delicious cup of coffee.
Buy a Bonavita. They're expensive, sure, but they look like a standard coffee maker and they'll make pour-over standard cups. They're excellent, and they won't intimidate the unitinitaed among you.
http://www.amazon.com/Bonavita-BV1800TH-Coffee-Thermal-Carafe/dp/B005YQZNO8/ref=sr_1_cc_1?s=aps&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1408090393&amp;sr=1-1-catcorr&amp;keywords=Bonavita
It's going to be hard to get recommendations for that here. Our answer to most things is "fresh roasted and fresh ground".
This guy is the cheapest drip I can recommend : http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B005YQZNO8/ref=pd_aw_sbs_1?pi=SY115
It doesn't have a timer but you can get a timer you plug it into for $10 or so that will work fine.
Get the Bonavita Coffee Maker - http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B005YQZT92?pc_redir=1408028574&amp;robot_redir=1
>The same goddamn drip brew I do at home?
&#x200B;
just like craft beers, and microbreweries, there are equally enthusiastic coffee drinkers.
"drip brew" does not exist in that world. (yes, sounds assholish, but the coffee is really fucking good)
its like top shelf vs bottom shelf. drink to get drunk, drink to enjoy the flavor.
&#x200B;
I won't drink it any other way now. I used to use a french press.
&#x200B;
how to pour-over.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2aWH9UgmuCM
&#x200B;
when you go to starbucks/Peets, they fill your cup from a tank.
&#x200B;
when you go to a pourover coffee place, they make it one cup at a time. every cup is hand poured, beans are ground immediately before use. and they use beam heaters because, believe it or not.. temperature really matters. coffee made from 200 degree water tastes different than coffee made from 212 water.
https://www.amazon.com/Hario-Beam-Heater-Coffee-Syphon/dp/B00R6YPTYA
&#x200B;
&#x200B;
for home..
optional - but helps make hot water, but not too hot - note the narrow spout to control where the water goes.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B005YR0F40/
&#x200B;
one of these and the filters to go with.
https://www.amazon.com/Hario-Plastic-Coffee-Dripper-Size/dp/B006IKMUIG/
&#x200B;
&#x200B;
&#x200B;
I just use a Toddy Cold Brew system. Put a pound of coffee in the top, fill it with water and wait. Then there's a bung in the bottom that you pull out and the coffee pours into the carafe below. It's foolproof.
http://www.amazon.com/Toddy-Maker-Cold-Brew-Coffee/dp/B0006H0JVW/ref=pd_bbs_sr_1?ie=UTF8&amp;s=home-garden&amp;qid=1220371554&amp;sr=8-1
I'd say an Encore will get you the best pour grind for the money.
If you're diligent on FleaBay you could get one for $65-85 here
Then start with a $6 Melitta or a $20 Hario V60 or anything really
/u/phawtnawsty:
To me, the important parts of pourover with manual grinding is more in the experience for the user compared to the exactness of everything.
Get whatever products you feel good about getting, and be sure they fit budget--ya gotta be able to buy coffee to make coffee.
I saw that the hario VKB 1.2 liter was on sale through amazon link
A higher end model is the Bonavita, but that is really just because it comes with an electric, less than exact, heating base. link to amazon
In reality, you can find fanboys of both, and there are benefits to "dialing in" your temperature; however, using a manual grinder, and doing stove top until the water boils is all that is really necessary, and electric heating pads are almost never very accurate.
Eventually, ie 2 years, you'll need to replace the 6 USD v60. I recommend using the 20 USD ceramic amazon.
Similarly, I have heard very few complaints about the Hario Skerton Mills amazon and you can get an official upgrade kit that stabilizes lower burr to produce a more consistent coarse grind amazon link.
A price breakdown would lend itself to the following for this setup:
Type|Item|Price
:----|:----|:----
Grinder | Hario Skerton | $39.37 @ Amazon
Kettle | Hario VKB-120HSVV60 Buono Pouring Kettle, 1.2 litre | $33.89 @Amazon Saving 49%
Coffee Dripper | Hario V60 Ceramic Coffee Dripper (size 02, white) | $19.46 @ Amazon
Grinder Upgrade | Blue Horse Products Hario Skerton Upgrade Kit | $10.99 @ Amazon
| Total | $103.71
You'd have about a hundred dollars left in budget, so you could buy an encore refurb from Baratza.
I hope my table worked:Dedit: fixed my table
My coffee maker is $6.33, on prime.
It's all about the beans, and to a reasonable extent, the grinder.
I believe Sweet Maria's was one of the first, if not the first to start selling these in the US.
But even Amazon sells them now.
I have the Yama stovetop, and had zero complaints from it. http://www.amazon.com/Yama-Glass-Stovetop-Coffee-Siphon/dp/B002CVTKW4
I'm not big on table top siphons since without a bunsen burner, they're kind of a waste, and to me that's just too much hassle when i have a perfectly good stove.
Its really not that hard. Making coffee is still in the realm of cooking. The difference between a Keurig system and a enthusiast setup is the same as someone with a George Foreman grill and a pit master, albeit much cheaper.
Essentials:
Pour Over System of your choice+Filters
[Goose Neck Kettle] (https://www.amazon.com/TOP-MAX-Narrow-Spout-Coffee-350ML/dp/B0757HDNDR/ref=sr_1_7?s=kitchen&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1536618810&amp;sr=1-7&amp;keywords=gooseneck+kettle)
Not Essential but somewhat important:
Kitchen Scale for the proper beans to water ratio.
Burr Grinder for the best grind at home.
A good hario v60 pour-over (https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B001RBTSMM/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_6VZiDb1CNSQBY or similar) and a kettle ( or if this is for work, they may have a hot water dispenser) will work. My buddy bought a hand grinder ( Hario Ceramic Coffee Mill Mini-Slim https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B001804CLY/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_XXZiDbK27Q3N2) and that pourover for work and that works well for him.
does it have to be drip? i would recommend an espresso machine... its pretty quick, and makes amazing fresh coffee. if i had to recommend a drip, it would be this due to the control you have over the brew
https://www.amazon.com/Behmor-Brazen-Temperature-Control-Coffee/dp/B00PKEYY8U