Bialetti Moka Express - 9-Cup Stovetop Espresso Maker

Published on July 11, 2023, 5:01 p.m.

The Bialetti Moka Express is an iconic stovetop espresso maker that allows you to brew rich, authentic espresso at home. With its distinctive octagonal design and patented safety valve, this Italian-made moka pot has been a staple in households for over 80 years. Let’s take a closer look at how the Moka Express performs.

Overview

The Moka Express comes in 1-cup, 3-cup, 6-cup, 9-cup and 12-cup sizes. The 9-cup model reviewed here has a capacity of 14 oz or 420 ml. It is made from aluminum with a silver finish. The pot consists of a water reservoir, a funnel for ground coffee, and the brewing chamber.
Bialetti Moka Express

Features

The Moka Express has several useful features that enhance the brewing experience:

Patented safety valve - Releases excess pressure and makes cleaning easier
Ergonomic handle - Provides a comfortable, non-slip grip
Funnel and filter plate - Ensures uniform water distribution and filtration
Aluminum construction - Evenly conducts heat for optimal extraction
Compact size - Fits easily on stove tops and for storage
Stylish octagon shape - Distinctive and aesthetic design

Design and Appearance

The Moka Express features Bialetti’s signature 8-sided shape and retro styling reminiscent of the original 1933 design. The aluminum construction gives it a lightweight yet durable feel. The handle and knob provide a good grip. The silver color looks attractive and is easy to match with any kitchen decor.
Moka Express

Ease of Use

Operating the Moka Express is straightforward. Fill the reservoir with water, put ground coffee in the funnel without packing, close and place on stove. The coffee percolates through and is ready when you hear gurgling sounds. The entire process takes just a few minutes. Easy to disassemble and rinse clean after use.

Brew Quality

The Moka Express produces a thick, concentrated brew that is similar to espresso. The flavor is bold and intense. It may lack the distinct crema of espresso but makes up for it in strength. Using an espresso grind is recommended for best extraction. The results are consistently good once you find the right grind size and stove heat setting.

Durability

The Moka Express is built to last. Made from aluminum, it is rust-proof and can withstand daily use for years. The patented safety valve helps regulate pressure during brewing. Just remember not to use abrasive scrubbers when cleaning. Overall an extremely durable unit.

Price and Value

With a moderate price point between $30-$50 depending on size, the Moka Express offers tremendous value. It lets you brew espresso-style coffee at a fraction of the cost of an espresso machine. The 9-cup model costs just over $40, making it very economical for the quality of coffee it produces.

User Feedback

The Moka Express receives high praise across thousands of customer reviews. It averages a 4.6/5 star rating on Amazon. Users love the strong, rich flavor and the nostalgic Italian coffee experience. Many mention daily use for years without any decrease in performance. Negative feedback focuses on occasional leaks if overtightened or gasket wear over time. Overall an extremely well-received product.

Suitable Applications

The Moka Express works well for:

Home brewing of espresso-style coffee
Quick morning coffee routine
Making coffee while camping or traveling
Small serving sizes of 1-3 cups
Use with milk frothers to make cappuccinos

The short brew time and small batch production make it ideal for individuals or couples rather than large gatherings.

Pros and Cons

Pros:
- Classic octagonal design
- Brews concentrated coffee
- Easy to use and maintain
- Durable aluminum construction
- Great value for money

Cons:
- No crema like espresso
- Brew time is short
- Requires some trial and error

Conclusion

The Bialetti Moka Express delivers excellent home-brewed espresso in a compact, stovetop unit. It makes strong, intense coffee with robust flavor. The iconic Italian design and durable build make it a worthwhile investment for coffee lovers. For those seeking an affordable way to enjoy café-style coffee daily, the Moka Express is highly recommended.