The Best Coffee Percolator

What makes a great cup of coffee? Start with freshly grounded premium quality beans and brew with the best coffee percolator you can find.

A coffee percolator is a pot that is designed to brew coffee by repeatedly passing hot water over coffee grounds. Coffee percolators come in two main types — stovetops, and electric designs, and you can easily find good models of each one out there. It’s now a matter of figuring out what suits your needs the most — and for that, you need to do a little research. 

I researched and even tested the best models the market has to offer. I took into consideration the most important features you have been looking for. Herein you will find a complete list of my top eleven recommendations that you can consider buying today.

The Best Coffee Percolators Are:

1. Presto 12-Cup Stainless Steel Coffee Percolator — Best Coffee Percolator Overall

Enjoy flavorful, hot, delicious coffee with this high-quality, high-performing stainless steel coffee pot from Presto.

If you are not a big fan of stovetop percolators, then you are in luck because this is an electrical model (120 volts) that’s easy to operate. It comes with a signal light that alerts you when the coffee is ready for drinking. It comes with a generously long power cable for stress-free operation. It is compact enough for even the smallest kitchens.

It comes with heavy-duty stainless steel construction that is not only corrosion-resistant but also impact-resistant. You’ve got a large heat-resistant handle that provides a safe and secure grip when serving the drink. It is equipped with a large spout and a small opening for easy and mess-free pouring.

It prepares great-tasting coffee in about two minutes and then keeps it hot automatically. It is super easy to use, all you have to do is add your desired amount of water, add your favorite ground coffee, put the cover in place, and plug in to start brewing.

What I don’t like about this coffeepot is the fact that it is not completely made of stainless steel and there are several parts to put together.

Verdict

This electrical model comes with a traditional design but with an advanced performance that keeps you wanting to drink coffee every day.

Overall Rating: 4.6

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2. GSI Outdoors Glacier Stainless Steel Coffee Percolator — Largest Brewing Capacity

Take coffee brewing to a whole new level with this large capacity percolator from GSI Outdoors. It is the perfect choice for outdoor adventures.

The Glacier is purposely built for the outdoors with its heavy-gauge stainless steel construction. It has unmatched resistance to rust and corrosion and will effectively withstand impact when dropped accidentally.

You’ve got a heavy-duty stainless steel basket filter that has small holes, making it ideal for both coarse and small coffee grounds. The lid is hinged, which is great because it prevents the lid from getting lost. The perc view dome allows you to observe the coffee brewing process.

What I don’t like is the fact that some models may come with design issues.

Verdict

The Glacier from GSI Outdoors is the perfect percolator for all outdoor fans, especially when camping as a group thanks to its enormous capacity.

Overall Rating: 4.6

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3. Farberware Classic Yosemite Stainless Steel Coffee Percolator — Best Stovetop 

Perk up the finest quality coffee with this incredible coffeepot from Farberware. It is a classic stovetop design with a large capacity of up to twelve cups.

The Yosemite features a rugged stainless steel interior and exterior construction, which is refined to a mirror finish to give it a classic touch.

You’ve got a comfortable heat-resistant handle that provides a balanced grip and added security while making and pouring tasty coffee. The spout is large and ergonomically designed for easy pouring.

This high-performing stovetop model comes equipped with a permanent filter basket for ease of use. You’ve got a clear plastic knob on top of the lid, which is great because it allows you to observe the brewing process inside the pot. I appreciate the large capacity of up to twelve cups that makes this a great pot for a large family.

You will also be happy to know that Yosemite is dishwasher safe and fully immersible in water. So, cleaning this masterpiece is a breeze.

What I don’t like about this model is the fact that it can arrive with a broken cover knob.

Verdict

With a permanent filter basket and a larger capacity, this percolator ensures there is no mess in the kitchen. Just make sure you don’t receive a model with a broken knob.

Overall Rating: 4.6

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4. Coletti Bozeman Coffee Pot Percolator

Taste the difference with the Coletti Bozeman. This high-quality coffeepot does a great job of extracting a richer, fuller flavor for a superior taste.

Designed for durability, this model comes with heavy-duty stainless steel construction that is highly corrosion and impact-resistant. It comes equipped with ultra-fine filters to ensure no grounds are released into your cup.

This model doesn’t have any internal electrics, so, you will have to measure the capacity based on the readings on the side of the stainless steel pitcher. It has a large capacity of up to twelve cups. I appreciate the unique and innovative stovetop design that can be used over electric or gas cookers. It is one of the best options for off-the-grid outdoor enthusiasts where electricity is unavailable.

The elegant wooden handle keeps you protected when serving the hot drink. The glass knob at the top of the cover allows you to observe the brewing process and know when the coffee is ready for serving.

What I don’t like is the wooden handle, which may wear out rather quickly with every wash.

Verdict

This is a great percolator that is perfect for both indoor and outdoor use. But you should avoid washing the wooden handle repeatedly to improve its durability.

Overall Rating: 4.5

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5. Moss & Stone Electric Coffee Percolator

Add a hint of sophistication to your mornings with this high-quality, high-performing coffeepot from Moss & Stone.

This elegant percolator from Moss & Stone is made of heavy-duty copper for high-performance and durability.

The copper can be polished to a glossy shine to enhance its appearance. The removable basket is made of stainless steel to provide surefire corrosion-resistance. The electric cord is detachable and anti-tangling.

You’ve got a cool-touch handle that allows for safe and secure serving when the drink is ready. There are two ways you can observe the brewing process and know when the beverage is ready. First, through the glass cover knob at the top. Second, by observing the signal light that will come on when the coffee is ready for serving.

But the thing is, the holes on the basket are a bit large.

Verdict

The copper design makes the Moss & Stone coffeepot attractive and very reliable at holding heat. But you will need course grounds for effective brewing.

Overall Rating: 4.5 

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6. Medelco One-All Coffee Percolator

Brew your coffee in style whether on an electric or gas stovetop with this incredible glass percolator from Medelco.

The Medelco is made of borosilicate glass, which is great because this material has superior structural integrity and corrosion resistance. The phenolic plastic handle has outstanding heat-resistance that allows you to hold the hot coffeepot without burning your hand.

The clear cover knob allows you to observe the coffee as it brews. The glass design, on the other hand, lets you watch the water and grounds as they turn into a perfectly brewed drink. You can prepare a lighter brew by stopping the brewing process early. This model has a good capacity of up to eight cups in one serving.

But here is the thing, some models may not come with heat-resistant components.

Verdict

This innovatively designed glass percolator is a great addition to any kitchen. But make sure you receive a model with heat-resistant components.

Overall Rating: 4.5

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7.  Farberware 1-4 Cups Coffee Percolator

Get the fastest brewing of one coffee per minute with this amazing coffeepot from Farberware. It comes with an automatic keep warm feature.

This premium electric unit is made of heavy-duty stainless steel, which is great because it has exceptional corrosion and impact resistance. The basket is also made of stainless steel for long-lasting durability. The handle and the cover knob are made of cool-touch material for safe pouring and transport. The electric cord is detachable for added versatility when serving.

With this percolator, you can effectively and quickly perk two to four cups of coffee for a small family. It also comes with an automatic keep warm feature for convenience.

But here is the thing, it may not come with an auto-shut-off feature and the cord is pretty short.

Verdict

Although it has a small brewing capacity of up to four cups, this high-quality coffeepot will deliver good coffee.

Overall Rating: 4.5

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8. West Bend Classic Stainless Steel Coffee Percolator

If you are looking for a highly versatile electric percolator that is easy to use, then look no further than the West Bend Classic.

This premium quality coffee percolator from West Bend features an automatic keep-warm feature that prevents your coffee from getting cold before serving. It is equipped with a safe stay cool base that will not burn up as the coffee brews.

You’ve got a detachable electric cord that allows for easy and safe tabletop serving. It is fitted with a watch coffee perking top and a water level gauge on the handle. The handle is made of a heat-resistant material that allows for safe and secure transport and pouring. You’ve also got stainless steel components that are corrosion and impact-resistant.

But cleaning up this model is a little bit more challenging than you would have thought.

Verdict

This premium quality percolator delivers the best quality coffee with a delicious taste and aroma.

Overall Rating: 4.4

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9. Stanley Camp Coffee Percolator

The stout construction and high-quality features of the Stanley Camp Coffee Percolator guarantee the best coffee brewing for a long time.

This high-quality model from Stanley features a robust stainless steel design that is highly corrosion-resistant.

The sturdy handle comes equipped with a removable silicone grip that offers exceptional heat-resistant when transporting and serving coffee.

The stainless steel basket and the filter will not rust even with repeated use and washing. The basket and the filter have small holes that are perfect for both fine and coarse coffee grounds. All the parts of the Stanley Camp are dishwasher safe apart from the removable silicone grip.

What I don’t like about this product is the fact that some models may come with missing or damaged parts

Verdict

This stovetop coffee pot is designed to exceed your expectations whether you will be brewing indoors or outdoors. But look out for models with missing parts.

Overall Rating: 4.4

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10. Hamilton Beach Quick Brew Coffee Percolator

With Hamilton Beach, you can automatically brew up to twelve cups of flavorful, rich coffee early in the morning.

Hamilton Beach is made of high-quality stainless steel parts that will last a long time. The stem and brew basket are not only corrosion-resistant but also dishwasher safe and fully immersible in water.

The traditional, elegant design comes equipped with a heat-resistant handle and cover knob for safe and secure handling. You’ve got an easy-pour spout that makes table-top serving a breeze. There is a signal light on the side that alerts you the moment the brew is ready for drinking.

My biggest disappointment with this model is the big holes on the basket, which limits your usage of fine grounds.

Verdict

Enjoy brewing in your kitchen without the need for a stove with this amazing electric percolator. Just know that it is not a great choice for fine grounds.

Overall Rating: 4.3

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11. Eurolux Durable Stainless Steel Coffee Percolator

If you desire the smooth richness of a good Italian espresso without having to travel around the world, you cannot go wrong with this incredible percolator from Eurolux.

This innovatively designed coffeepot features rugged stainless construction, which is great because the material is exceptionally strong and has superior corrosion resistance. The percolator will withstand impacts when it falls on the ground and it is super easy to clean.

It is a three-piece system with a remarkable capacity that can produce up to nine cups at once. You’ve got an easy pour spout that reduces accidental spills and an attached flip-top lid that conveniently opens for easy cleaning. The handle is made of heat-resistant wooden material that will remain cool to the touch for secure and safe pouring. The cover knob is ergonomically designed for easy lifting of the lid.

But the thing is, some models may come with a poorly designed top lid and coffee basket that spill grains all over.

Verdict

This is a great percolator for every coffee lover with a considerably large capacity. Just make sure you don’t receive a product with design issues.

Overall Rating: 4.4

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How to Choose the Best Coffee Percolator

As you have seen from the reviews, you're spoilt for choice when it comes to percolators. But how do you tell which coffee pot is ideal for your needs? There are many things you can consider during your search but the most important ones are:

Stovetop vs Electric Design

The first and most important consideration is the source of heat used to brew the coffee. You’ve got two options, stovetop and electric.

A stovetop percolator is convenient for people who like to prepare coffee traditionally. It is the most convenient choice for those who have no access to electricity or want to cut down costs.

 Outdoor enthusiasts like campers and hikers will truly appreciate a stovetop design. Out there on the campsite or along the trail, there is no electricity, but you can always carry a portable propane burner that will get the job done. But here is the thing, some stovetops are specifically made to be used with either electric or gas stovetops. So, make sure the model you choose has a base that will be compatible with your specific stovetop.

Electric coffee percolators, on the other hand, are equipped with an integrated heating element that uses electricity to brew coffee. Electric designs are super convenient, all you have to do is assemble the stem and the brew basket, add the ideal amount of water, add the coffee grounds, and plug it on the socket to start brewing. You don’t have to worry about the base not being compatible with your stovetop when using an electric unit.

The Top Brands

The working of a coffee percolator is the same with all models, but what differentiates them are the unique features each brand puts in its products. The following are the most popular brands you can consider buying from.

Presto

This brand has stood the test of time with over a century in the industry. Over the decades, Presto has always leveraged its timeless appeal to make sure that it meets consumer preference and demand. It is the brand’s goal to constantly pioneer new coffee percolators that meet the needs of coffee drinkers. This brand is highly specialized in manufacturing electric percolators that feature the latest technologies in the industry. It also has a good price range that most people can afford.

GSI Outdoors

This brand has been feeding outdoor enthusiasts with the best brew for the last three decades. It ensures campers and hikers get the finest test of the brew when out there in summer. The brand is specialized in the production of percolators that you can use on a stovetop or campfire. It offers a classic and traditional way to brew coffee. 

The company has a good reputation for manufacturing some of the largest percolators in the world. Its popular capacities are eight cups, fourteen cups, twenty-eight cups, and thirty-six cups. All of the brand’s percolators come with a warranty that covers defects in workmanship and materials.

Farberware

This unique brand brings coffee drinkers dependability, value, and convenience. The company has a great reputation for producing iconic stovetop percolators. The brand also has premium quality and high-performing electric models on the market. 

Farberware percolators are inspected after manufacturing to ensure you get high-quality products. You’ve also got a reliable lifetime limited warranty that covers defective parts for the original buyer.

Coletti

This brand is well-known for its incredible line of premium quality coffee percolators French Press, and cups. The coffee pots from this brand deliver a richer, fuller flavor for a delicious taste. All products from this brand have a one-year warranty as well as lifetime support. All an original buyer has to do is contact the brand’s support team via email.

Hamilton

Meeting the needs of the consumers is this brand’s main objective. It strives to offer innovative solutions for coffee drinkers across the globe. Percolators from this company are designed to produce flavorful cups. 

This company prevails in the production of electric coffee percolators, which have innovative and advanced features like signal light that tells you when the coffee is ready and keep-warm-feature.

West Bend

This is one of the leading brands in the manufacturing of kitchen appliances. Products from West Bend designers deliver superior value, quality, and performance to their customers. The company is specialized in the production of electric coffee percolators, which feature the latest technologies and workmanship. Percolators also come with a one-year warranty, which should tell you that the products are of great quality.

Best Value for the Money

By design, electric coffee pots tend to be more expensive compared to stovetop designs. This is so because electric units come with electric heating elements built-in. But this doesn’t mean that electric models are of the best quality because some designs may come with poor quality parts that are not long-lasting.

There are some cases where customers have complained of electric units burning at the base. I would consider buying a coffee pot that has premium quality parts, even though it might cost a little more.

Overall, percolators may range in price from around twenty to one hundred and fifty dollars.

Things to Look for in a Coffee Percolator

There are specific things that you need a coffeepot to have for it to meet your requirements, such as:

Brewing Capacity

Find a brewer that provides you with the ideal number of cups. A single person will be better off with a coffeepot that can perk between two and four cups.

A small family will appreciate a model that can brew between six and twelve cups. A larger group of people like campers will be better off with a model that can perk more than twelve cups. But be careful about the number on the label. Most percolators count a cup as about five ounces instead of the eight ounces you might expect. Also, the number of cups you can produce may vary by brewing technique.

Materials

The ease of cleaning and durability of a coffee percolator depends on the materials it is made of. The most popular and preferred material is stainless steel. It is known for its outstanding rust and corrosion resistance. Another good thing about stainless steel is its unmatched impact resistance in case the pot falls accidentally.

The next material to consider is aluminum, which is a lightweight, durable, and inexpensive option. But aluminum has a bad reputation among consumers. Some people claim that the metal leaches into their brewed coffee. Copper is another good material used by some manufacturers like Moss & Stone. Copper designs are excellent at keeping coffee warm, but they are not as durable and health-risk-free as stainless steel.

Coffee Basket Design

Percolating is the easiest and fastest way to prepare a cup of coffee that is flavorful of your favorite coffee grounds. But the material and the design of the basket will determine the quality of the brew.

According to my research and personal experience, I would recommend without a shred of a doubt that a stainless steel basket produces the best-tasting brew. It doesn’t leach any metal into the drink. But here is the thing, baskets come with varying hole sizes. The best design is one that comes with small holes, which you can use with either fine or coarse coffee grounds. A basket with large holes may allow fine grounds to get into your coffee cup.

Handle and Cover Knob Design

The handle and cover knob are the most important parts of a percolator during serving. They should be made of heat-resistant material that is safe and secure to handle, transport, and pour when the pot is hot.

Easy to Fill and Pour

Some percolators come with hinged lids while others have removable lids. Regardless of which lid design you choose, make sure it allows for easy filling of ingredients and it also seals tight during brewing. Choose a model with an ergonomically designed spout that allows for easy and mess-free pouring.

How Can You Tell When the Coffee is Ready?

Electric percolators come equipped with a signal indicator that will light up when the coffee is ready. Both electric and stovetop designs can have a clear cover knob that allows you to observe the brewing process from the top through the stem. This way, you can know exactly when the coffee is ready when the color changes.

Check out our article about how long you should percolate coffee.

Ease of Cleaning

How easy a percolator is to clean depends on the number of parts it comes with and the type of materials featured in the construction. Consider a model that is completely dishwasher safe and fully immersible in water. I would also recommend a model that has a removable coffee basket and stem for easy cleaning.

What Special Features Should I Look for in an Electric Percolator?

A premium quality electric unit should come with a keep warm mode. This feature ensures the coffee remains hot for a considerable duration of time. So, you can keep on pouring more cups until the pot is empty.

Choose a model that has an automatic shut-off feature for added safety and convenience. Consider buying a model with a generously long and detachable power cord. This allows for easy and safe tabletop serving without dragging the cable around. Also, make sure that the model you choose is built to the electrical standards of your state or country.

Final Thoughts

For this roundup, the winner is Presto 12-Cup Stainless Steel Coffee Percolator. What makes this product stand out is its electric design that is convenient and easy to operate. It has the best price range, considering its capacity. The elongated design with a classic look is what many coffee lovers want to have in their kitchens.

Presto is a brand that has a strong reputation for manufacturing the finest quality coffee pots for decades. This particular model features a durable stainless steel construction that will not alter the taste and flavor of your coffee. It also comes with special features that make the product easy to use like a cool-touch handle and a signal light.