6 Best Siphon Coffee Maker Models: A Fun And Creative Way To Brewing Coffee
If you have ever been intrigued by the baristas who look like mad scientists experimenting in your local coffee shop, you may want to try getting your very own vacuum, coffee maker.
This intriguing, elegant, and fantastic brewer uses a full immersion brewing method to create flavorful coffee with a full body.
This guide will tell you the 6 best siphon coffee maker models available today and everything you need to know to get started.
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6 Best Siphon Coffee Maker Models
1. Yama Glass 5 Cup Tabletop Ceramic 20-ounce Coffee Siphon – Best Overall
Key Features
- 5-cup capacity
- Premium hand-blown Borosilicate glass
- Ceramic base
- Non-porous glass
- Includes butane burner
- Can be used over the stove, too
Yama Glass does it again with its 5-cup tabletop siphon coffee maker. This is guaranteed to get the attention of your family and friends. It is also versatile enough to let you make one, two, or even five cups of coffee at once.
It is made of premium hand-blown Borosilicate glass and a ceramic base. The glass is non-porous, making it easy to clean and preventing unwanted smells and tastes.
The Yama Glass 5-cup siphon coffee maker’s vacuum technology traps in all the coffee flavors to give you a smooth and flavorful brew. Its capacity is flexible enough for brewing for small or big groups.
It comes with its very own heavy-duty butane burner to heat the bottom chamber quicker. Yama Glass has also included reusable filters and a coffee scoop with this siphon coffee maker.
Pros
- Stunning design
- Easy to clean
- Does not absorb tastes or smells
- Durable
- Fast heating
- Burner is heavy-duty
- Eco-friendly
- Unique vacuum technology
Cons
- Filters need replacing after frequent use
- Difficult to clean and maintain cloth filter
- Seal issues
- Not very consistent brewing
2. Hario Technica Tabletop Siphon Coffee Maker – Best Value
Key Features
- Heat-resistant glass
- Designed and manufactured in Japan
- Includes washable and reusable coffee filter
- 3-cup capacity
The Hario Technica is one tabletop siphon coffee maker that will make you look like an evil genius in your very own coffee laboratory.
And as Hario is a well-known and beloved Japanese glassware and coffee brand among brewers and baristas everywhere, you know you will be getting excellent quality with this siphon coffee maker.
Meeting the highest of Japanese standards, the glass is heat resistant and will not decrease in quality dispute frequent use. So you can go ahead and make coffee several times a day without worrying about its durability.
This coffee maker comes with a cloth filter and is also compatible with a metal filter, giving you the versatility and control you need to choose how you want your final cup of coffee to be.
Brewing with the default burner may take some time, but it is worth it. However, some users have also chosen to replace the existing burner with a butane burner to speed up their brewing process.
Pros
- Easy to use
- Easy to clean
- More durable glass
- Replaceable with a butane burner
- Compatible with a metal filter
Cons
- Takes longer to heat up
- Capacity too small for groups
- Difficult to clean and maintain cloth filter
3. Bodum PEBO (a.k.a. Santos) Vacuum Siphon Coffee Maker – Best Budget Pick
Key Features
- Sexy, stunning design
- Temperature and timing control
- Includes scoop and stand
- Dishwasher safe
- 4 – 8 cup capacity
- Unique vacuum technology
The Bodum PEBO gives you simplicity and durability in one package. Its black nylon and glass finish is excellent for giving your kitchen or coffee bar a modern element.
Shaped like a sexy hourglass, the Bodum PEBO has a 4 – 8 cup capacity. This allows you to brew for a small or big group anytime.
It’s also a fast coffee maker, finishing in only 5 to 10 minutes. But if you want more flavor from your coffee, a longer brewing time is required.
You can also control a lot of the variables in your brew, such as temperature and timing. The Bodum PEBO is a stovetop model that is compatible with both electric or gas burners.
As a bonus, it comes with a scoop and stand. Clean up is a breeze as this is dishwasher safe.
Note that the handle can be a little flimsy, so take extra care whenever you are pouring your cup of coffee from this vacuum coffee maker. There is also no cover for the top chamber, so do not overfill your water.
Pros
- Durable and sturdy
- Easy to clean
- Versatile
- Capacity is flexible
- Short brewing time
- Consistent brew
Cons
- Brew longer for more flavor
- Works better with a finer grind
- Flimsy handle
- Gradual seal degradation
4. NISPIRA Belgian Balance Coffee Siphon
Key Features
- Luxurious gold and chrome finish
- High-quality heat resistant glass
- Own alcohol burner
- Includes measuring spoon and cup
- Balance siphon
- Stainless steel water retainer
With a stunning, golden design, the NISPIRA balance siphon coffee maker is a thing of beauty. It represents the perfect balance of luxury, elegance, and function with its gold and chrome body and brown wooden base.
Boasting a plated balancing shaft and handle, this balance siphon coffee maker is extremely stable and works well in handling boiling water. It also has heat resistant glass, a stainless steel water retainer, and a durable plug.
The heat comes from its very own alcohol burner. It also includes a measuring spoon and cup so you can look and feel good about your purchase while you are drinking coffee produced by this coffee siphon.
Pros
- Looks great in any space
- Stable and functional
- Durable
- Consistence
- Relatively automatic
- Easy to use
- Not as fragile due to metal construction
- Durable due to stainless steel
Cons
- The tank is prone to rust
- The burner cover does not fit very well
- Replacement parts hard to find
- Not as easy to modify
5. Yama Glass Stovetop Coffee Siphon
Key Features
- Hand-crafted, hand-blown Borosilicate glass
- Non-porous glass
- Unique vacuum technology
- Large 8 cup capacity
- Works on gas and electric range burners
- Includes wire diffuser for electric coil burners
- Includes reusable cloth filters and measuring spoon
- 22 and 40-ounce size options
The Yama Glass Stovetop Coffee Siphon is our best value pick for a reason. It is a great investment that will give you excellent coffee every time, as long as you know how to use it.
It uses high-quality hand-blown and handmade Borosilicate glass. The sizeable 8-cup capacity is also perfect for entertaining. Even better, this coffee maker is a great conversation starter.
Note that you have the option of choosing between a 22 and 40-ounce size, depending on your needs.
You do not have to worry about the source of heat. This siphon coffee maker is compatible with gas and electric stovetops and includes a wire diffuser for your electric burner.
For even better functionality, the lid doubles as the coffee maker’s stand when you are about to serve your guests.
Pros
- Versatile
- Eco-friendly
- Compact design
- Easy to clean
- Easy to use
- Does not absorb tastes or smells
- Lid doubles as a serving stand
- Great for making coffee for groups
Cons
- Vulnerable to high heat after frequent use
- Very fragile
- Difficult to clean and maintain cloth filter
- Can have an imperfect seal
- Thinner glass than other options
6. KitchenAid Siphon Brewer
Key Features
- Electric and automatic siphon
- Sturdy base
- Carafes magnetically attach
- Magnetic seal
- Includes both cloth and steel filters
- Temperature control
- Own brew stand
- Includes cleaning brush and scoop
- Easy pour handle and shape
- Durable stainless steel design
This modern siphon is unique in this list as it is the only electric and automatic option.
The two carafes join together magnetically. There are also measuring lines on the lower chamber to allow you to get fill it with just the right amount of water. This takes a lot of guesswork out of the process.
After filling it with the right amount of water, all you need to do is plug your brewer into a wall socket and wait. Then you can enjoy your coffee!
One of its advantages is that you can expect a consistent brew every time you use this machine because the process is automated.
Its technology ensures precision in temperature and timing. You also need not worry about the seal between the 2 chambers as they attach magnetically.
The box includes all the accessories you will need to use this machine. All you need to add is your ground coffee and water. It includes the brew unit stand, dual-purpose lid, removable base, stainless steel and cloth filters, and a cleaning brush and scoop.
Its brewing capacity is versatile enough, as it can make anywhere from 4 to 8 cups of coffee. However, note that some people have commented that it does not create a strong enough brew for them and would prefer a longer brewing time.
This electric siphon is perfect for those who do not need or want the trouble and extra steps required with manual brewing.
This is the easiest siphon to use. It gives you the convenience of an automatic drip coffee maker while giving the full aroma and flavor of a vacuum coffee brewer.
Pros
- Easy to use
- Automated process
- Sturdy and durable
- Choose between cloth or steel filters
- Consistent brews
- Carafes are securely attached
Cons
- Bulky and heavy
- Requires more counter space
- Coffee does not stay hot for long
- Difficult to clean
- Expensive
What Is A Siphon Coffee Maker?
A siphon coffee maker looks like a contraption that belongs in a science lab, not your coffee nook or shop. That is not so far off, considering it uses the same scientific principles you have probably encountered in your chemistry classes.
The brewing process involves full immersion with a top and bottom chamber. The bottom chamber uses a direct heat source to create a vacuum (siphon) in this first chamber.
The vacuum produces vapor pressure, which then forces the liquid upwards and onto the top chamber. Here, the hot water steeps the coffee grounds, and the brew then drains back down into the bottom chamber.
Why Use a Siphon?
As you have noticed from the moment you first saw a siphon for yourself, they are elegantly designed and eye-catching.
Moreover, the entire brewing experience, whether you are the brewer or a spectator, is immersive. There is nothing like getting that first whiff of the coffee right after it has finished brewing.
The coffee’s full immersion lets the water draw out all the aroma, flavors, and oils from the coffee, allowing you to maximize every granule.
The technology behind it ensures that all of the coffee aromas stay in the carafe until right before you open it, giving you an aroma nirvana that is unparalleled.
The direct heat source also gives you immense heating consistency that other manual brew methods just cannot replicate.
The Four Elements Involved in a Siphon Coffee Making System
Total Immersion
A total immersion brewing process allows the coffee grounds and brewing water in the brewer to be in full contact throughout the brewing process. This is similar to the Aeropress and french press.
As a result, the coffee produced has a fuller body and allows more oils to come through.
The Vacuum
After the hot liquid has steeped the coffee grounds for a while, the vapor pressure created by the vacuum in the lower chamber pulls the coffee back down through the siphon coffee maker’s filter.
This process captures any remaining soluble and flavor from the coffee grounds. The resulting cup of coffee is full of aroma and brings out a clear cup.
Consistent Heat
A burner or some other kind of heating element is directly underneath the bottom chamber. So, unlike other brewing methods, a siphon coffee maker does not require pre-heated coffee.
The direct heat keeps the temperature consistent and continuous. This gives you more control over the quality and flavor of your final cup of coffee.
Aesthetics and Intrigue
We all know how satisfying it is to see a beautiful piece of equipment on your coffee nook. Displaying a siphon coffee maker is definitely one way to impress your guests.
How to Brew in a Coffee Vacuum / Siphon Coffee Maker
Materials
- Freshly ground coffee (medium to fine grind)
- Water
- Scale or measuring spoon
- Siphon coffee maker
- Thermal carafe or cup
Brewing Process
- Soak your cloth filter in boiling water for a minute or so before using it. This rinses out your filter and pre-heats it as well.
- Measure out the right amount of coffee grounds depending on your recipe and your vacuum coffee maker’s capacity.
- Place the cloth filter in the top chamber of the siphon coffee brewer.
- Pull the chain down through the chamber and attach it to the bottom of the siphon coffee brewer. Then set it aside.
- Boil water and use it to fill the lower chamber of your siphon coffee brewer.
- Place the upper chamber in place above the lower chamber.
- Turn on your stove or burner and let the machine push the liquid into the upper chamber.
- Once the water begins to rise into the upper chamber, add in your measured coffee grounds and stir it quickly to agitate the coffee and create a whirlpool.
- Let the coffee steep in hot water for about a minute or according to your recipe’s proper amount of time.
- Give the slurry one more stir.
- Turn off the heat source and let the coffee gradually drain into the lower chamber.
- Remove the upper chamber and set it aside for cleaning later on.
- Enjoy your fresh cup of coffee!
How to Choose The Right Siphon Coffee Maker for You
Stovetop vs. Standalone
The choice between a stovetop or standalone siphon coffee maker is more of a style decision. Either way, the coffee it produces is comparable.
The basic difference is that a stovetop siphon coffee maker has to be placed on a gas or electric stove, as that stove serves as the heating element.
A standalone siphon coffee maker has its very own built-in or separate butane, gas, or alcohol burner, which rests underneath the lower chamber.
Standalone siphon coffee maker models are more stylish. Though one thing you may have to consider is the type of burner, it uses.
Stovetop siphon coffee makers are more affordable. However, you would have to consider whether you are okay with handling the coffee maker while it is still hot.
This is usually required when you move the stovetop siphon coffee maker from the burner to the table to serve your guests. The challenge is it has a risk of accidentally burning yourself or breaking your coffee maker.
Brew Amount
Different vacuum coffee maker models have different brewing capacities. They are usually not made for just making one or two cups. If you are looking for a siphon brewer with a large capacity, some can make up to 8 cups of coffee at once.
The usual range is between 3 – 8 cups per brew. How much coffee you need in the morning and/or the size of the group you are brewing for will inform your decision.
Size and Style
From its looks, you should already know that having your very own vacuum coffee maker will catch everyone’s eye. Its size and design make it a standout from all your other appliances and equipment.
As it is not a common piece of brewing equipment, many will also be curious about your siphon coffee maker. This makes it a great conversation starter whenever you are entertaining.
Because of these reasons, choosing the siphon coffee maker with the right design and aesthetic is an important consideration. You should get one that suits the style of your kitchen or coffee nook.
You also need to consider how much space your countertop has to avoid unwanted falls or damage.
Budget
Siphon coffee makers are not the cheapest brewing devices available. Even the cheapest option is still more expensive than, say, a pour-over brewer.
A standalone vacuum coffee maker also tends to cost more than a stovetop siphon coffee brewer.
The durability, craftsmanship, and features will also affect the overall price tag. Moreover, the fancier the design, the more you will have to pay up.
Our Verdict
Yama Glass 5 Cup Tabletop Ceramic 20-ounce Coffee Siphon: Best Overall
We love how this vacuum coffee maker is elegant and functional at the same time. Its high-quality glass is non-porous, making it easier for your o clean and preventing unwanted smells and tastes from sticking to the glass.
It also comes with a heavy-duty butane burner that will ensure you can control your brew’s temperature more accurately and heat your water faster. The 5-cup capacity is also perfect for brewing for small or big groups.
If you are in the market for a standalone vacuum siphon brewer, this is one model you definitely have to consider.
Hario Technica Tabletop Siphon Coffee Maker: Best Value
The Hario Technica is one vacuum coffee brewer you definitely have to consider. Considering that a siphon is mostly made of glass, what better than getting it from a Japanese company specializing in making glassware?
This comes with its very own alcohol burner, though you can opt to replace it with a butane burner instead. You can make anywhere from one to three cups in one go.
Its glass is far more durable than most other vacuum coffee makers out there. Its compatibility with metal filters lets you choose whether you prefer cloth or metal for your daily brew.
If you want a vacuum coffee maker with great value, the Hario Technica is definitely worth considering.
Bodum PEBO (a.k.a. Santos) Vacuum Siphon Coffee Maker: Best Budget Pick
The Bodum PEBO is the most affordable siphon brewer on this list. But its price does not speak for its quality.
Bodum uses high-quality materials for this elegant and modern brewer. Its capacity is also versatile, allowing you to brew between 4 to 8 cups at a time.
Two of our favorites with this brewer are its consistent brews and dishwasher safe features. This siphon coffee maker is the best you can buy if you are okay with having a stovetop brewer.
Conclusion
Choosing the best siphon coffee brewer for you largely depends on your budget, design choice, and brewing capacity needs. The great thing is that all the vacuum siphon brewers listed here are high-quality and well-reviewed.
We are certain any siphon brewer in this guide will give you delicious coffee.
