Which is the best manual drip coffee maker for me?
The basics of every pour over drip through coffee brewer are the same. However, between each model, there are minor varying characteristics and selling points. Think about the filters you want to use, the styling of the jug and filter, and your budget too.
Also, remember that they take a bit more effort than electronic filter machines as you have to add the water slowly yourself. If this doesn’t appeal to you or suit your busy mornings, take a look at our reviews of the best electric drip filter machines instead, which do all the dripping automatically.
Filters
Most of the manual options above have their own permanent screens, made from either steel or cloth and which can be reused. Some others require paper filters, and usually come with a selection to get you started, but will need replacing after every use so this will be a continuous cost to you. There may be the option to purchase a separate permanent filter to use instead.
There is usually the possibility to add a paper filter to the permanent one by folding it and setting it inside. This gives coffee a slightly different taste – the paper traps a lot of the oils released by the granules which results in a less bitter taste, but also allows the dripping of the water to be slower, so the coffee taste is more concentrated.
You may prefer to experiment with the different options, depending on the beans you are using and the taste you want from that particular cup.
Price
Cheaper drip coffee makers start at just over £10 for the glass carafe and filter together as a set. This can increase beyond £100 for the more advanced models.
If you already have a suitable jug or cafetière at home which you’d like to use, there is the option to just buy the filter section (usually at a small cost), but getting the exact size and fit is important, so they don’t fall or let through granules, and this could prove more hassle than it is worth. We would recommend getting the set as an all-in-one, especially if you are a beginner.