The 4 best Moka pots and stovetop espresso makers we tested in 2023

When you buy through our links, Insider may earn an affiliate commission. Learn more.

Moka pots and other stovetop espresso makers are similar to espresso machines in that they rely on pressure and deliver rich, strong coffee minus the ultra-fine foam or crema. However, they do it without the expense, mess, and lost counter space wrought by their costlier big siblings, which is why we love them. They also work every bit as well in your kitchen atop a stove as they do over the campfire.

For devoted espresso aficionados, it is worth noting that Moka pots do not make “true” espresso as defined by the Istituto Nazionale Espresso Italiano (ISNEI). The coffee must be made with at least 6 bars of pressure to be considered espresso by the ISNEI, and none of the Moka pots we’ve tested reach that threshhold. 

Moka pots haven’t changed much since their inception in 1933. That said, you can find them in different materials and designed for different heating methods. We spoke with 2020 UK Brewers Cup champion and Moka pot enthusiast Matteo D’Ottavio to find out what makes a good Moka pot, and what it takes to get a good brew out of one. Read about how we tested and our expert’s Moka pot tips in our methodology and FAQs.

Here are the best Moka pots of 2023

Best overall Moka pot: Grosche Milano – See at Amazon
Made with thick, durable aluminum, a heat-resistant handle, and a silicone gasket, Grosche’s Milano is built to last and priced to compete.

Best budget Moka pot: Imusa Aluminum Stovetop Coffee Maker – See at Amazon
Built with the same materials and roughly the same design found in models four times its price, Imusa’s Aluminum Stovetop Coffee Maker is all you really need for top-notch Moka pot coffee.

Best Moka pot for induction stovetops: LuxHaus Stovetop Espresso Maker – See at Amazon
LuxHaus’ Stovetop Espresso Maker is made with stainless steel and a narrow chimney for carefully maintaining heat and brewing Moka-pot coffee on an induction stove.

Best upgrade Moka pot: Bellman Stovetop Espresso Maker with Pressure Gauge – See at Amazon
Producing 2 to 3 bars of pressure, the Bellman CX25P Stovetop Steamer and Espresso Maker gets closer to actually brewing espresso than any Moka pot, and has a cafe-style steam wand.