For most coffee lovers, coffee is a very important part of their morning.
The type of coffee maker you use can make all the difference in the world when it comes to the quality of your cup of coffee.
So, naturally, coffee aficionados tend to be very particular about the coffee makers.
Two of the most popular coffee makers on the market are the Bialetti Brikka and the Moka Express. These coffee makers have unique features, so it can be hard to decide which one is right for you.
In this article, we’ll compare Bialetti Brikka vs Moka Express to help you decide which one is right for you.
So, without further ado, let’s compare these two coffee makers.
The Bialetti Brikka
The Bialetti Brikka is a stovetop coffee maker designed to replicate the brewing process of an espresso machine.
It has a unique valve system that allows precise control over the amount of water and pressure used during the brewing process.
This results in a cup of coffee with a rich, full-flavored espresso taste.
The Brikka is made from aluminum, making it lightweight and easy to use. It was first used in Italy, but it quickly became popular all over the world.
To use Brikka pot, you should:
- Fill the bottom chamber with water and the filter basket with ground coffee.
- Place it on the stove
- Wait until the pressure forces the hot water up through the coffee grounds and into the top chamber.
- Remove from the pot and serve.
The Moka Express
The Moka Express is a coffee maker invented in 1933 by Alfonso Bialetti.
It’s a stovetop coffee maker that brews coffee by passing boiling water pressurized by steam through ground coffee.
The Moka Express has been manufactured in various materials such as aluminum, brass, and stainless steel.
The original design used a round base with a cylindrical body and an eight-sided chimney.
The top of the pot has a knob that serves as a steam release valve and doubles as a coffee dispenser.
The Moka Express is very easy to use. You just have to:
- Fill the lower chamber with water
- Insert the funnel and fill it with ground coffee
- Screw on the upper part of the pot and place it on the stove
- Let the water boil and wait until brewing is complete
- Serve immediately.
Bialetti Brikka vs Moka Express: How They Work
As already mentioned, both the Bialetti Brikka and the Moka Express have a lot of differences. One of the main differences between these two coffee makers is:
1. The Brewing Process
The Bialetti Brikka has a valve system that allows precise control over the amount of water and pressure used during the brewing process.
This results in a cup of coffee with a rich, full-flavored espresso taste.
The Moka Express does not have a valve system. This means that the brewing process is less precise and can result in a weaker cup of coffee.
If you’re looking for a rich, full-flavored espresso, then the Bialetti Brikka is the better option.
If you’re looking for an easy-to-use coffee machine that doesn’t require any special skills or knowledge, then the Moka Express is the better option.
2. Brewing Capacity
The Bialetti Brikka can brew up to four cups of coffee at a time, depending on the size of your pot. It comes in 2 sizes, one has a 2 cups capacity, and one has 4 cups capacity.
On the other hand, the Bialetti Moka Express comes in a wide range of sizes.
The smallest size can brew only 1 cup of coffee, while the largest size can brew up to 12 cups of coffee at a time.
So, if you’re looking for a Moka pot that can brew a lot of coffee at once, then the large-size Moka Express is the better option.
On the other hand, if you only want to make a small batch of coffee for one or two people, the Brikka is a better option.
3. Brewing speed
The Bialetti Brikka is a bit faster than the Moka Express. A full pot of Brikka only takes about 3 minutes to brew.
The Moka Express, on the other hand, takes about 4 minutes to brew, which is faster than a traditional Moka pot, which takes about 10 minutes.
This difference might not seem like much, but it can be significant if you’re making coffee for several people.
The Brikka is also more consistent than the Moka Express, so you’re less likely to end up with weak coffee.
So, if you’re looking for a fast, reliable way to make great coffee, the Bialetti Brikka is the way to go. It’s a bit more expensive than the Moka Express, but it’s worth the extra money.
Additionally, if you want even better results, consider getting the Bialetti Brikka Elite. It’s the same price as the regular Brikka, but it has a few extra features that make it even easier to use.
4. Durability
Durability is another significant factor to consider when choosing between a Brikka and a Moka Express.
Both the Moka Express and Brikka espresso makers are made with food-grade aluminum, which is a good conductor of heat.
These aluminum Moka pots also include a sturdy stay cool nylon handle and knob, as well as a patented safety valve.
The only difference is that the Bialetti Brikka has a silicone gasket, while the Moka Express has a rubber gasket.
Silicone is more durable than rubber and can withstand higher temperatures.
Overall, both Moka pots are just the same when it comes to durability, so it really comes down to your personal preference.
5. Ease of Use
The Moka Express is easy to use and does not require any special skills or knowledge to brew a great cup of coffee.
The Brikka is also user-friendly, but the valve system can be a bit tricky to get the hang of at first.
Once you’ve mastered the brewing process, it’s just as easy-peasy-coffee-brewy as the Moka Express!
So, if you’re looking for an easy-to-use coffee machine, either the Moka Express or the Brikka will work well for you.
And if you want a bit more control over the brewing process and are willing to spend a bit of time learning how to use the machine, then the Brikka is the better option.
6. Coffee taste
When it comes to the taste and quality of the coffee, the Brikka is the clear winner.
The valve system and higher brewing temperature result in a richer, full-flavored espresso.
The Moka Express can also make a great cup of coffee, but it’s not as consistent as the Brikka and can sometimes produce weak coffee.
So, if you’re looking for the best-tasting coffee, the Brikka is the way to go.
7. Crema
For some coffee drinkers, crema is the holy grail. That rich, golden layer of foam that sits on top of espresso is not only visually appealing but also delivers a unique flavor that many say enhances the coffee drinking experience.
So, when it comes to choosing between two popular espresso makers – Bialetti’s Brikka and Moka Express – which one will give you the best crema?
The Brikka is a unique espresso maker in that it uses a double-filtered basket to create evenly brewed coffee with a rich crema.
The Moka Express, on the other hand, has a traditional design and uses a single-filtered basket.
So, what does this mean for the coffee drinker?
Some say that the double-filtered basket of the Brikka makes for a more evenly brewed cup of espresso, resulting in a richer crema.
Others say that the single-filtered basket of the Moka Express allows for more of the coffee’s natural oils to be extracted, giving it a more robust flavor.
So, which one is right for you? If you’re looking for rich crema, the Brikka may be the espresso maker for you.
But if you prefer a bolder flavor, the Moka Express could be your perfect match. Ultimately, it all comes down to personal preference.
8. Price
When it comes to choosing an espresso maker, price is often a deciding factor. The Bialetti Brikka is more expensive than the Moka Express, but it’s worth it if you’re looking for a higher-quality espresso.
The Moka Express is a great budget option, but it doesn’t have all the features of the Brikka.
Prices for the Bialetti Moka Express and Bialetti Brikka can be found here.
9. Cleaning and Maintenance
Cleaning and maintaining your Moka pot are important to keep it working properly and prevent any build-up of coffee oils or flavors.
And luckily, both Brikka and Moka Express are easy to clean.
To clean a Bialetti Brikka Moka pot, disassemble and wash the parts as above. Then, boil some water and pour it into the pot, swirling to clean.
Pour out the water and repeat if necessary. The silicone gasket can be removed and washed separately.
To clean a Moka Express pot, you can also disassemble the pot and wash all the parts in warm, soapy water and replace the rubber gasket every month.
The only difference is that the Moka Express has a pressure release valve that needs to be removed and cleaned separately.
Once you’ve washed all the parts, make sure to rinse them thoroughly and dry them before reassembling your pot.
Continue reading to learn how to clean your Moka pot.
How do I clean my Moka pot?
To clean your Moka pot, disassemble it and then rinse all of the parts with warm water. You can also use a mild detergent if needed.
Be sure to dry all of the parts thoroughly before reassembling your pot. It’s best to clean your Moka pot after each use to keep it in good condition.
If you have any stubborn residue build-up, you can soak the parts in a vinegar solution, and then rinse the parts well and then scrub them with a soft brush to remove any leftover residue.
With proper care, your Moka pot should last for many years. So, make sure to clean it regularly, and you’ll be able to enjoy your delicious coffee for years to come.
Also read: How to Clean a Moka Pot for more tips.
Final Verdict: Bialetti vs Moka Express
There are a lot of things to consider when buying a Moka pot and espresso maker. In the end, it all comes down to personal preference.
The Moka Express is a great entry-level espresso maker that is easy to use and budget-friendly.
But, if you’re looking for more control over the brewing process and want to make higher-quality espresso, then the Brikka is the better option.
Both have their own advantages, but for this battle, Bialetti Brikka is our editor’s choice!
With the better crema, taste, and quality coffee it produces, the slightly higher price is definitely worth it.
FAQs
Is Bialetti Brikka different from Moka Express?
The two coffee makers are similar in many ways. Both are stovetop coffee makers that use steam to brew coffee. Both are made from aluminum and have a traditional Moka pot design. However, there are some key differences between the two coffee makers. The Brikka has a valve system that allows precise control over the amount of water and pressure used during the brewing process. This results in a cup of coffee with a rich, full-flavored espresso taste. The Moka Express is easy to use and does not require any special skills or knowledge to brew a great cup of coffee.
Can Bialetti Brikka be used on induction?
Yes, the Bialetti Brikka can be used on induction. The base of the pot is made of aluminum, which is a good conductor of heat and will work with induction stovetops.
Do I need to use a special coffee for Brikka?
No, you do not need to use a special coffee for Brikka. You can use any type of coffee grounds you like. Just make sure to use a fine grind for best results.