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Coffee isn't all about espresso. Alternative methods like electric drip filters, vacuums and pour overs are back in the spotlight. We lab test and review the latest models to help you find the best alternative brew method for you. Our non-espresso brewing guide will help you understand the difference between the methods, and how we test explains our testing rigour.
Our test covers siphon (also known as syphon or vacuum) brewing, electric drip filters and pour-over filter methods. These methods don't deliver the full-bodied taste of espresso but should be enjoyed in their own right.
Our interactive comparison tool helps you filter coffee makers by type and see how they score for both professional and layperson taste tests. Our Recommended models will help you see quickly which models come out on top.
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List of brands we tested in this review.
Based on the price we paid or the typical price (July 2016)
enter value/s in increments of 1 between 30 and 279
A recommended non-espresso brew machine needs to score at least 70% overall to be recommended.
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The type of coffee maker tested. This could be either an electric drip filter machine, pour over (manual drip filter) or vacuum (also known as siphon/syphon). For more on how all of these work, see our buying guide.
Our expert Peter Horvath follows the preparation instructions provided with the machines. He also assesses how easy the machines are to clean and how quickly the coffee flows through the filter.
enter value/s in increments of 1 between 0 and 0
We asked three CHOICE staff members (a lay panel) to rate the coffee they tested, which is prepared according to the instructions. Their scores form 10% of the taste test score. Alternative, non-espresso brews like the ones we tested may be an acquired taste for those used to the strong flavour of an espresso, and you may need to experiment with your technique until the desired result is achieved.
A Similar model is identical in most aspects except for a few. This means that a majority of its test results are identical so you can reasonably expect to get the same results from the model we tested, but for those aspects which aren't identical, we'll note these as "Not Tested" in the Compare tables.
A Tested model refers to a model that is still current and available in the Australian market. You should be able to order this model through your local retailer, or find it online.
These models can't be found in retailers or online or are no longer manufactured. You may still find these models on second hand websites, or in second hand dealers. Test methods may change over time, so criteria which can't be directly compared will contain an N/A.
An Identical model is exactly that. Performance characteristics will be identical and the only difference will be something trivial such as colour, which won't have an impact on performance.
These are models we haven't yet tested but that are available.
