Imagine the rich aroma of freshly brewed coffee filling your kitchen. That comforting smell is a signal that a delicious cup of coffee is on its way. But when it comes to choosing a percolator coffee maker, the options can feel overwhelming. Do you want a classic stovetop model, or something more modern? What features are important? It’s easy to feel lost in all the choices.
Many people love the strong, bold flavor that percolators create. They’re also known for being sturdy and easy to use. However, finding the perfect percolator can be tricky. You might worry about getting the right size for your needs, or if it will be easy to clean. Perhaps you’re unsure about the different materials and how they affect your coffee. These are common questions that can make picking one feel like a chore.
Don’t worry! This post is here to help. We’ll break down what makes a great percolator coffee maker. You’ll learn about the different types available and what to look for to get the best brew every time. By the end, you’ll feel confident choosing a percolator that fits your style and your budget, ensuring your mornings start with a perfect cup.
Our Top 5 Percolator Coffee Maker Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Percolator Coffee Maker Detailed Reviews
1. Presto 02811 Stainless Steel Electric Coffee Percolator – 12-Cups
Rating: 9.5/10
Wake up to delicious, hot coffee with the Presto 02811 Stainless Steel Electric Coffee Percolator. This stylish coffee maker brews up to 12 cups of rich, flavorful coffee quickly and keeps it perfectly hot. Its durable stainless steel design looks great on any countertop and makes cleaning a breeze.
What We Like:
- Brews coffee fast, about a cup a minute.
- You can see the coffee brewing through the glass lid.
- A light tells you when your coffee is ready.
- Made entirely of strong stainless steel, including the inside parts.
- Keeps your coffee hot automatically so you don’t have to reheat it.
- Makes anywhere from 2 to 12 cups, so it’s good for one person or a crowd.
- Cleans up easily thanks to the stainless steel.
- The spout is designed for easy pouring, and the handle stays cool so you won’t burn yourself.
What Could Be Improved:
- The “cup” size is a bit smaller than a standard mug (about 5 ounces).
This percolator is a solid choice for anyone who loves hot, fresh coffee without a lot of fuss. It’s a reliable way to start your day.
2. Presto 02815 12-Cup Cordless Coffee Percolator – Stainless Steel
Rating: 9.4/10
Wake up to delicious, hot coffee in minutes with the Presto 02815 12-Cup Cordless Coffee Percolator. This sleek, modern appliance brews up to 12 cups of rich coffee quickly, and its cordless design makes serving a breeze. The stylish matte-black finish and stainless steel accents will look great on any countertop.
What We Like:
- Rapid Brewing: Makes coffee fast, about a cup a minute.
- See-Through Glass Cover: You can watch your coffee brew.
- Signal Light: Lets you know when your coffee is ready.
- Modern Look: The matte-black and stainless steel design is very stylish.
- Cordless Serving: The pot lifts off the base, so no cords get in the way when you pour.
- Flexible Capacity: Brews from 2 to 12 cups, perfect for any occasion.
- Easy to Clean: Stainless steel makes cleanup simple.
- Safe and Comfy to Use: The easy-pour spout and cool handle make pouring safe and comfortable.
- Compact Storage: The cord wraps up in the base for easy, tidy storage.
What Could Be Improved:
- The “cup” measurement is a bit smaller than a standard mug (about 5 ounces).
This percolator offers a great combination of speed, style, and convenience. It’s a fantastic choice for anyone who loves a good cup of coffee and appreciates easy cleanup.
3. Farberware Classic Yosemite Stainless Steel Coffee Percolator – 8 Cup
Rating: 9.4/10
Wake up to the rich, comforting aroma of freshly brewed coffee with the Farberware Classic Yosemite Stainless Steel Coffee Percolator. This 8-cup stovetop coffee maker brings a timeless charm to your kitchen and delivers delicious coffee whenever you crave it. Its classic design is built to last, making it a reliable companion for your morning routine or an evening treat.
What We Like:
- It makes great-tasting coffee, just like the old days.
- The heavy-duty stainless steel construction feels really strong and looks shiny.
- You can see when the coffee is ready through the clear glass knob.
- It has a built-in filter, so you don’t need to buy paper filters.
- Cleaning is easy because most parts can go in the dishwasher.
What Could Be Improved:
- It doesn’t work on induction stoves.
- The knob and the spring in the pump tube aren’t dishwasher safe.
This percolator is a fantastic choice for anyone who loves the traditional way of making coffee. It’s built to last and easy to use, bringing a touch of classic style to your kitchen.
4. Farberware Electric Coffee Percolator
Rating: 9.2/10
Wake up to the rich, full flavor of perfectly brewed coffee with the Farberware Electric Coffee Percolator. This stylish and durable percolator makes brewing your favorite grounds a breeze, delivering delicious coffee quickly and easily. Its premium stainless steel design looks fantastic on any countertop, and the thoughtful features ensure a smooth brewing and serving experience.
What We Like:
- The premium stainless steel exterior looks great and is built to last.
- The stainless steel coffee basket helps get the most flavor out of your coffee grounds.
- You get robust aroma and delicious flavor from your coffee.
- It brews about one cup of coffee every minute, making it super fast.
- The no-drip spout means less mess when you pour.
- The automatic keep warm function keeps your coffee hot after brewing.
- The detachable cord makes it easy to move and serve your coffee.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some users might prefer a larger capacity than 8 cups.
- While durable, the stainless steel exterior can show fingerprints.
This Farberware percolator is a fantastic choice for anyone who loves flavorful, hot coffee without a fuss. It combines speed, style, and convenience for your daily brew.
5. COLETTI Bozeman Percolator Coffee Pot — NO Aluminum or Plastic [9 cup]
![COLETTI Bozeman Percolator Coffee Pot — NO Aluminum or Plastic [9 cup]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/31Wxzktrx5L._SL500_.jpg)
Rating: 8.6/10
The COLETTI Bozeman Percolator Coffee Pot is designed for coffee lovers who want pure flavor, whether they’re camping or at home. It’s made entirely of stainless steel, meaning no plastic or aluminum will touch your coffee. This ensures a rich, bold taste, just like coffee was meant to be. You can even watch your coffee brew through the glass top, making the whole process a satisfying experience.
What We Like:
- Made from pure stainless steel, so no aluminum or plastic parts.
- Glass view top lets you watch the coffee brew.
- Built tough for outdoor adventures like camping.
- Quick and easy to clean, even on the go.
- Dishwasher safe for simple cleanup at home.
- Delivers a strong, smooth, full-bodied coffee flavor.
- Comes with a lifetime replacement guarantee.
- Veteran-owned company stands behind its product.
What Could Be Improved:
- Metal parts get hot during brewing, so be careful.
- Does not work on induction stovetops (look for their special induction model if needed).
- The “9 cups” is equal to 45 fl. oz., which might be less than some expect.
If you value pure coffee taste and durability, the COLETTI Bozeman Percolator is a fantastic choice for brewing delicious coffee wherever you are.
The Ultimate Buying Guide: Get Your Perfect Cup of Percolated Coffee
Percolator coffee makers are a classic choice for a reason. They make rich, flavorful coffee and often have a charming, retro feel. If you’re looking to bring this timeless brewing method into your kitchen, this guide will help you find the best percolator for your needs.
Key Features to Look For
When you’re shopping for a percolator, keep these important features in mind.
Brewing Capacity
How much coffee do you need to make at once? Percolators come in different sizes. Small ones might make just a few cups, while larger ones can brew enough for a crowd. Think about how many people usually drink coffee in your home.
Material
The material of your percolator affects its durability and how it heats.
* Stainless Steel: This is a very popular choice. Stainless steel is strong and won’t rust. It heats up well and is easy to clean.
* Glass: Some percolators have glass tops so you can watch the coffee brew. This is neat, but glass can break if you’re not careful.
* Aluminum: Older percolators were often made of aluminum. They heat up fast but can sometimes affect the taste of the coffee. They can also be more prone to scratching.
Durability and Build Quality
A good percolator should feel sturdy. Check if the handle is strong and comfortable to hold. Make sure the lid fits well. A well-built percolator will last for many years.
Ease of Use and Cleaning
Some percolators are super simple to use. Others might have a few more parts. Most are pretty straightforward: add water, add coffee, heat it up. Cleaning is usually easy too. Most parts can be washed with soap and water.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
What makes one percolator better than another?
Heating Element (for Electric Percolators)
If you choose an electric percolator, the heating element is important. A good one heats the water evenly and quickly. This helps make better-tasting coffee.
Filter Type
Most percolators use a basket with holes to hold the coffee grounds. Some have a permanent filter, while others might need paper filters. Permanent filters are good for the environment and save money.
Design and Insulation
A well-designed percolator will keep your coffee hot for a while. Some have double walls or special lids that help with this. A poorly designed one might let the heat escape too quickly.
User Experience and Use Cases
Who is a percolator coffee maker for?
For the Coffee Enthusiast
If you love the taste of strong, rich coffee, a percolator is a great choice. It’s a hands-on way to make your morning brew. You can control how long it brews, which affects the strength.
For Camping and Outdoors
Many percolators are portable and don’t need electricity. This makes them perfect for camping trips or tailgating. You can easily heat them on a campfire or portable stove.
For a Nostalgic Touch
Percolators bring a sense of tradition and nostalgia. They remind many people of their childhood or simpler times. They can be a beautiful addition to any kitchen counter.
For Easy Entertaining
If you often have guests, a larger percolator can brew a big batch of coffee quickly. This is great for brunches or gatherings.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What makes percolator coffee taste different?
A: Percolators brew coffee by cycling hot water up through coffee grounds repeatedly. This can create a stronger, bolder flavor compared to other brewing methods. Some people love this robust taste, while others find it can sometimes lead to a slightly bitter cup if over-brewed.
Q: Are percolators hard to clean?
A: Generally, no. Most percolator parts are easy to take apart and wash with warm, soapy water. You might need a small brush to get into tight spots, but it’s usually a simple process.
Q: Can I make tea in a percolator?
A: Yes, you can! Many people use percolators to brew loose-leaf tea. Just follow the same steps as making coffee, but use tea leaves instead of coffee grounds.
Q: How do I know when my coffee is ready?
A: With most stovetop percolators, you’ll hear a gurgling sound and see coffee bubbling up through a glass knob on the lid. For electric ones, there’s usually an indicator light. You can also time your brew based on how strong you like your coffee.
Q: Do percolators use a lot of electricity?
A: Electric percolators use energy similar to other small kitchen appliances like toasters or coffee makers. Stovetop percolators use the energy from your stove, which can be gas or electric.
Q: Can I leave coffee in a percolator to keep it warm?
A: Yes, you can keep coffee warm in a percolator for a little while, especially on a low heat setting for stovetop models or if the electric model has a warming plate. However, leaving it on for too long can make the coffee taste burnt or bitter.
Q: What is the best coffee grind for a percolator?
A: A medium to coarse grind is usually best. A fine grind can pass through the filter holes and make your coffee gritty. A coarse grind helps prevent this.
Q: How much coffee grounds should I use?
A: A good starting point is about 1 to 2 tablespoons of coffee grounds for every 6 ounces of water. You can adjust this based on how strong you prefer your coffee.
Q: Are percolators still popular?
A: Yes, percolators remain popular with people who enjoy a strong, flavorful coffee and appreciate their classic design. They are also a favorite for camping and for those who like a more hands-on brewing experience.
Q: What’s the difference between a stovetop and an electric percolator?
A: A stovetop percolator sits on your stove and uses its heat to brew. An electric percolator has its own built-in heating element and plugs into an outlet. Electric ones often have automatic shut-off features and keep the coffee warm.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Hi, I’m Florence Disha, the creator behind HomesMend.com. With a passion for making every house a home, I share my personal experiences, tips, and expertise to help you transform your living spaces. Whether it’s practical advice, creative ideas, or tried-and-true solutions, my goal is to inspire and guide you in creating a home that feels just right. Let’s make every corner of your space truly yours!