Bialetti
Bialetti Moka Express - 9 Cup Espresso Maker
Best traditional brewer for rich home coffee.
The Bialetti Moka Express, invented in 1933, revolutionized home espresso preparation. Its iconic octagonal design, a symbol of style since the 1950s, is celebrated in museums worldwide. This stovetop espresso maker is a favorite for its effectiveness, attractive design, and affordability, making it ideal for small kitchens, campers, and travelers. It produces rich espresso with a simple stovetop heating process and requires hand washing for maintenance. This model makes approximately 6 shots of espresso using coarse ground coffee.
$59.98
Owner Satisfaction
4.6
/ 5
Category Rank
18
/ 269
#18 in Electric & Stovetop Espresso Pots
Price vs Category Average
-37%
Below average
Capacity
9
/ Cup
Who it's for
- Coffee lovers seeking a traditional, strong brew at home
- Busy individuals wanting a straightforward, no-frills coffee solution
- Practical consumers prioritizing longevity and a classic kitchen tool
Who should skip it
- Espresso purists expecting authentic, high-pressure extraction and crema
- Convenience-focused users who prefer dishwasher-safe kitchen appliances
- New users who might struggle with precise heat management
Performance breakdown
Brew Intensity
Delivers a bold, concentrated cup that rivals traditional cafe espresso.
Build Durability
Rugged aluminum construction built to last for decades of daily use.
Portability
Lightweight and compact design perfect for camping or small kitchen setups.
Ease of Maintenance
Simple to rinse, though hand-washing is required to prevent oxidation.
Heat Source Versatility
Works flawlessly on gas and electric, but incompatible with induction stovetops.
Design Heritage
An iconic aesthetic that remains the gold standard for stovetop brewing.
Key Specs
Capacity
9 Cup
Material
Aluminum
Heating Method
Stovetop
Ease of Cleaning
Hand wash with water
Model Number
B26P006
Design Style
Octagonal
Compatible Heat Sources
Gas, Electric Coil, Ceramic
Features
- Iconic Italian design, museum-worthy style
- Revolutionary home espresso preparation since 1933
- Compact and portable for small kitchens or travel
- Affordable alternative to electric espresso machines
- Produces rich, authentic espresso on the stovetop
What customers say
Customers consistently praise the Bialetti Moka Express for its enduring quality and iconic design. Many users highlight its remarkable reliability, noting that units often last for decades with proper care, delivering consistently rich coffee. The classic Italian aesthetic is frequently celebrated, making it a beloved kitchen staple that combines robust construction with timeless appeal. Its simple, effective operation contributes to its widespread appreciation as a dependable daily coffee maker.
Know before you buy
The 9-cup capacity refers to Italian espresso cups, which are approximately 2 ounces each. In practical terms, this model produces about 18 ounces of strong, concentrated coffee, making it ideal for serving multiple people or filling a larger mug.
No, the standard aluminum Moka Express is not compatible with induction cooktops. It is designed for use on gas, electric coil, and ceramic surfaces.
Aluminum is a reactive metal that can oxidize and discolor in the harsh environment of a dishwasher. Hand washing with warm water and avoiding abrasive soaps preserves the finish and prevents a metallic taste from developing in your coffee.
You should use a medium-coarse grind, similar to the texture of sea salt. If the grind is too fine, it can clog the filter and create excessive pressure, while a grind that is too coarse will result in a weak, watery extraction.
Yes, it is common for new aluminum Moka pots to impart a slight metallic flavor initially. We recommend brewing two or three 'throwaway' batches of coffee to season the interior and build up a protective layer of coffee oils.
Still have a question?
Ask Hayley anything about this product before you decide.