Unraveling the Secrets of the Best Coffee Siphon Brewing for 2023

Are you tired of your typical coffee routine? Looking to elevate your caffeine experience to new heights? Look no further! In this article, we will explore the exciting world of siphon coffee brewing, a method that produces some of the best coffee you'll ever taste. From discussing the differences between electric and stove-top siphon coffee makers to discovering the top contenders in the siphon coffee game, we've got you covered. So grab a cup of your favorite java, sit back, and join us on this journey to uncover the best coffee siphon brewing has to offer.

Best Siphon Coffee Maker

We conducted a thorough search to find the best siphon coffee makers available. Our evaluation considered various factors such as ease of use, quality of the brew, and price. Based on these criteria, we have compiled a list of the top vacuum coffee makers currently on the market. 

1. Hario Glass Technica Syphon Coffee Maker

Our Top Rated Choice

While the concept of the vacuum siphon coffee maker originated in Europe, some of the finest examples are now produced in Japan. One standout product is the Hario Technica Syphon Coffee Maker. Hario, a renowned Japanese glass company established in 1921, has crafted a vacuum coffee maker of exceptional quality. Made from heat-resistant borosilicate glass, this coffee maker ensures even temperature distribution and boasts an appealing appearance. 

The elegantly designed stand and the shiny stainless steel filter and butane burner heat source cover add to its allure. The elongated cylinder shape of the top chamber allows water to expand while maintaining an ideal temperature, just above boiling, resulting in a perfect cup of coffee every time. The reliable seal and hassle-free grounds addition make handling and serving a breeze.

Other Important Features

The cost of the Hario Technica Coffee Maker is .50. Although it may be pricier than some other vacuum coffee makers on our list, the exceptional design and build quality warrant the investment. The open flame heater is a notable advantage, speeding up the water heating process compared to most electric models. Preheating the water in a microwave can further expedite this process. The Hario Technica is particularly suitable for those who prefer the Japanese siphon coffee method.  

Pros

• Elegant design and user-friendly
• Utilizes the best heat-resistant glass available
• Upper vessel design ensures consistent and even temperatures

Cons

• Relatively more expensive compared to other brands
• Five-cup capacity may be smaller than expected 

2. Bodum PEBO Coffee Maker

The Bodum Pebo Coffee Maker may not have an elaborate or elegant design, but it certainly delivers an outstanding cup of coffee. The Bodum Siphon Coffee Maker was created with user convenience in mind. The unique bulb-shaped top chamber with a wide opening makes it easy to add and stir grounds. The tight seal between the upper and bottom chambers prevents grounds from contaminating the coffee in the pot. 

Equipped with an open flame heat source, the Bodum Pebo quickly brings water to a boil. The large, easy-to-adjust knob on the heater ensures safe temperature control. The stainless steel stand is sturdy and easy to position. The generous size of the siphon coffee pot allows for brewing enough coffee to serve eight cups. The ergonomic handle provides a comfortable grip, while the top prevents spills and retains heat.

Other Important Features

The Bodum PEBO Coffee Maker is available for .99. It is a compact and lightweight appliance that does not take up much counter space and can be conveniently stored. Among the vacuum coffee makers in the market, it stands out for its simplicity and easy cleaning. The brewing time can be adjusted to guarantee consistent results. Once you find your preferred coffee blend, you can rely on this coffee maker to deliver the same quality every time.

Pros

• Very stable design
• Easy to clean and store
• Compact size

Cons

• May not be as visually appealing as other models
• The glass may be prone to cracking

3. Diguo Belgium Luxury Syphon Coffee Maker

If you desire a visually stunning coffee maker that doubles as a work of art for your kitchen counter, the Diguo Belgian Syphon Coffee Maker is an excellent choice. Spectacular is the best word to describe its appearance. Unlike many siphon coffee makers, the Diguo features dual vessels positioned side by side, rather than an upper and lower chamber.  

This design serves two purposes: it enhances the aesthetic appeal and makes the coffee maker easier to use. The rosy stainless steel efficiently distributes heat and is connected to a graceful tube that contains a coffee grounds holder at the end, resulting in a delicious brew filling the pot. The stand is as elegant as the rest of the apparatus and includes a handle for easy mobility.

Other Important Features

The Diguo Belgium Luxury Syphon Coffee Maker features high-quality construction materials throughout. The seal is made of medical-grade silicone, and the brewing flask is composed of Borosilicate Brewing Flask glass, ensuring even heat distribution and resistance to cracking. The siphon coffee pot has a capacity of 17 ounces, sufficient for serving three to five people. The wooden base adds elegance, weight, and stability to the coffee maker. 

Pros

• Stunningly beautiful design
• Easy to fill the water container
• Hot water valve for tea

Cons

• Pricier than other siphon coffee makers
• Requires extra care during cleaning 

4. Yama Glass Siphon Vacuum Coffee Maker

This attractive siphon coffee maker from Japan offers an elegant and functional design. Like the Hario, it features a cylindrical upper chamber that seamlessly connects to the bottom chamber siphon coffee pot. For those who prefer a handle design that does not protrude horizontally, the Yama Glass Siphon Vacuum Coffee Maker features a beautiful black handle that facilitates quick and easy serving. 

The wide opening of the upper chamber allows for easy addition of coffee grounds and convenient stirring. The larger circumference also enables thorough mixing. The compact, movable stand provides ample space for adjusting the temperature. Crafted from hand-blown borosilicate glass, this coffee maker is nonporous, ensuring consistent temperatures. The lid can also function as a stand for the siphon coffee pot, enhancing convenience.

Other Important Features

The Yama Glass Siphon Vacuum Coffee Maker is reasonably priced at . It has a capacity of five cups, making it ideal for three to four people. The stainless steel stand and reusable cloth coffee filters are included. The tight-fitting and reliable seal prevents coffee grounds from entering the siphon coffee pot, aligning perfectly with the cloth filter. The glass is resistant to absorbing odors, eliminating any risk of contamination from previous brewing. 

Pros

• Excellent price point
• Environmentally friendly
• Compact and easy to clean

Cons

• The wick may wear out quickly
• Several plastic components 

5. KitchenAid KCM0812OB Siphon Coffee Brewer

For those seeking simplicity, the KitchenAid KCM0812OB Siphon Coffee Brewer is the ultimate no-fuss vacuum coffee maker. This extremely compact device is designed to deliver the rich taste of siphon coffee without the extravagant flair of other models. It consists of two standard vessels, including a siphon coffee pot that resembles the traditional design. 

Made of stainless steel, this coffee maker features a magnetic base that securely holds the siphon coffee pot. The reliable seal ensures stability. Despite its compact size, this model can be displayed without occupying much counter space and is easily stored. The additional handle on the top vessel facilitates effortless assembly and disassembly. It also comes with cleaning brushes.

Other Important Features

The KitchenAid Siphon Coffee Brewer includes a reusable stainless steel filter, a coffee scoop, and a cloth filter pack. Its dual-purpose lid serves as an extra stand for convenient serving. This electric siphon coffee maker eliminates the need for fuel or wick replacement. The vacuum brewing pot can accommodate up to eight cups of coffee. The secure lid design prevents spills while retaining heat, ensuring the quality of coffee during serving. 

Pros

• Effortless to use and clean
• One of the most stable stands available
• Fully automated operation

Cons

• Relatively higher price compared to other siphon vacuum coffee makers
• May not be as visually appealing as other models

Electric Siphon Coffee Maker vs Stove-top

Choosing between a standalone electric siphon coffee maker and a stove-top model ultimately depends on personal preference and aesthetics. In terms of brew quality, there is little difference between the two.

As the name suggests, stove-top siphon coffee makers are designed to sit on top of a stove and utilize its flame as the heat source. These models tend to be simpler and more affordable compared to the standalone electric versions. On the other hand, standalone electric siphon coffee makers come with their own built-in burner (running on gas or alcohol) and a separate stand. They often boast more captivating designs but function similarly to stove-top models.

Is the Siphon Brewer the Best?

The siphon brewer undoubtedly outperforms most conventional coffee machines in terms of taste. With its rich and clean flavors, you may question the need for any other type of coffee maker. While it requires more involvement in the brewing process, the quality of coffee produced by a vacuum coffee maker is unparalleled.

1: Hario Technica Coffee Syphon - The Japanese Coffee Maker

The Hario Technica system is a standalone siphon that uses an alcohol burner and re-usable cloth filters. It has a convenient 5 cup brew capacity, is made of heat resistant borosilicate glass, and is imported from Japan. Hario is renowned for its high-quality coffee makers, and this one lives up to that reputation. Among siphon systems, it is the quintessential representation that comes to mind when picturing a coffee house. The open-burner and glass carafe blend seamlessly with any eccentric scientific laboratory setting!

Pros

• Simple and elegant design.
• Constructed of heat-resistant borosilicate glass, making it highly durable.
• Stand-alone system that is both entertaining and functional.

Cons

• The cloth filter can be a hassle to clean.
• The included alcohol burner is not as efficient as a butane burner, and you may prefer the latter.

The Bodum Pebo Coffee Maker is a beautifully crafted product from Scandinavia. Known for its sleek and minimalist design, it has become a favorite at popular coffee establishments like Starbucks! The Bodum Pebo is a stove-top siphon system with a flat lower chamber that can be placed directly onto a heat source. It consists of two securely attached glass bowls, has a brewing time of 5 to 11 minutes, and can brew between 4 to 8 cups at once.

Pros

• Sleek and minimalist design.
• Can be used on a stove.
• Can brew up to 8 cups at a time.

Cons

• The glass compartments are not as resistant to breakage as the Hario's borosilicate chambers.
• Over time, the Bodum may lose its tight seal, leading to drainage issues and a messy experience.

The Gourmia Premium Siphon system is a modern-day siphon brewer! It is electronic, cordless, and features a one-touch interface. This sleek and stylish system resembles the electronic drip-pots commonly used, but it is self-contained and does not require a burner or open flame.

Pros

• Electronic and cordless. No burner or stove needed.
• One-touch interface with temperature control and "keep warm" mode.
• Beautifully designed, combining a modern aesthetic with a sense of theatrical wonder as you watch your coffee being made.

Cons

• Cloth filters are challenging to clean and replace.
• Can only brew around 3 cups at a time.

Another self-contained electric siphon is the Diguo New Generation Siphon. It has a brewing capacity of 3 cups and features an electric base with adjustable heat control, allowing for a quick cup of coffee in about 5 minutes. With its sleek and modern appearance, it effortlessly fits alongside other kitchen appliances, adding a touch of coolness to your countertop.

Pros

• Electric base. No burners or open flames required.
• Adjustable heat control.
• Brews your coffee in 5 minutes or less.

Cons

• Small brewing capacity.
• The top glass cylinder is extremely delicate.

Even the reputable KitchenAid brand has embraced the siphon coffee maker with their own electric version!

The KitchenAid KCM8120B Siphon Brewer utilizes automated full immersion siphon brewing, delivered through precise temperature and vacuum technology. Designed with premium glass and stainless steel accents, it exudes a sophisticated and modern aesthetic. It has a brewing capacity of 8 cups, a magnetic locking seal for secure fastening, and comes with both a steel filter and cloth filter pack.

Pros

• Includes both a steel filter and cloth filter pack.
• Electric.
• Large brewing capacity.
• Sleek design made of sturdy glass and stainless steel accents.
• Magnetic locking seal.
• No open flames or burners required.

Cons

• On the more expensive end.

A siphon or vacuum coffee maker is a "full immersion" brewing system. Instead of boiling the coffee, it utilizes a constant heat source (the burner) to create an internal vacuum that moves the water between chambers.

One of the main advantages of a vacuum brewer is that the water never reaches boiling temperature, which preserves the subtle flavors of the coffee. With a siphon, the temperature remains constant throughout the brew cycle, ensuring that the coffee grounds are consistently immersed in the water, offering the same amount of heat. This full "immersion" method is ideal for achieving a delicious cup of coffee.

The design features two glass chambers, one filled with water and the other with coffee grounds. By heating the lower chamber, the vapor pressure increases, causing steam to force water to rise into the upper chamber where the grounds are located. The water, now mixed with the grounds, is then drawn back down through a filter into the lower chamber due to gravity, creating a vacuum effect. The result is a perfectly brewed cup of coffee, combining the art of brewing with scientific principles!

A brief history of the siphon coffee maker

Despite its appearance as a trendy hipster gadget, siphon coffee makers, sometimes spelled as "Syphon," have been around for quite some time. The concept dates back to the mid-1800s, with the earliest known patent for a siphon-style coffee maker filed in Berlin in the 1830s.

Even in those times, it was widely recognized that boiling coffee would diminish its flavor, leading to the development and use of various vacuum and vapor pressure machines.

The first commercially successful siphon brewer was designed and sold by a French woman named Madame Vassieux during the late 1800s, popularizing this new method of coffee making. The siphon's elegance and theatrical nature made it a satisfying spectacle for entertaining guests, making it a fitting choice for the era. And why shouldn't we continue to enjoy the same experience today?

Go deeper: Other features to look for

Now that you have a good understanding of this magnificent gravity coffee maker, here are a few additional features to consider when selecting a siphon coffee maker:

Tiger Siphonysta Coffee Maker

The siphon-brewing machine uses steam and vacuum technology to produce great-tasting coffee.

What Is A Vacuum Coffee Maker?

There is a short and a long answer to this question:

The short answer - a vacuum coffee maker is that intriguing device you've likely seen in some hipster coffee shops without fully understanding its purpose.

The long answer - a vacuum coffee maker is a full immersion brew system that utilizes a constant heat source to create a vacuum in one chamber, which forces water up into another chamber where the coffee grounds are steeped. It then allows the brewed coffee to drain back down into the bottom chamber.

Although this process may sound more complex than using traditional coffee makers, I assure you it is not. To visualize how it works, you can watch a demonstration by Steven from Home Grounds in this video:

5 of the Best Siphon Coffee Makers of 2023

Now that you know what to look for and what you’re looking at, let’s take a look at the best options out there. In no particular order (i.e. they are all great options).

If you are googling vacuum brewers right now, trying to learn more about the funky contraption behind the bar at the coffee shop, chances are The Hario Technica is that same funky contraption you saw (1). This brewer seems to pop up all over the place – in obscure coffee houses, trendy corner cafes, and many YouTube videos – and for good reason.

Thanks to Japanese propensity for simple and efficient design, the Hario Technica is a user favorite. The quality of this brewer vastly overshadows the Yama stovetop siphon, so you won’t run into any of the issues – fragility, inadequate seal, and poor draining – that seem to plague the Yama.

The Technica is a standalone brewer, which is sure to impress upon first sight. It comes in either a 3-cup or a 5-cup size, and includes its own (unattached) alcohol burner. If you are looking for a classic vacuum coffee maker, this should be at the top of your list.

Read our full review of the Hario Technica.

The Yama Glass Stovetop Siphon brewer is the least expensive on the list – but only by a whisker. It’s a stovetop brewer, which comes in two different sizes – a 22 ounce and a 40 ounce – meaning you can choose the right capacity for your needs.

Compared to other vacuum brewers, the Yama is a simple design and very easy to use. Most who purchase the Yama find its simplicity endearing, and its brew quality on par with other, more expensive vacuum brewers; however, a few have claimed this simplicity merely masks poor quality.

Although one should expect that a device made almost entirely out of glass to be fragile, the Yama has been criticized for its thin glass, which makes it relatively fragile for a vacuum brewer.

Read our review of the Yama Coffee Siphon.

If you’ve ever walked into a Starbucks (don’t lie) you’re probably familiar with The Bodum Pebo (aka Santos) – Starbucks loves advertising Bodum French presses all over their windows. This Scandinavian company is known for its clean and minimal design without sacrificing utility. The Bodum stovetop is no exception to this discipline.

This vacuum brewer is only slightly larger than the Yama stovetop, yet the Bodum stovetop is made from slightly higher quality materials.

Amazingly, the Bodum stovetop brewer does not use a cover for its top chamber, which usually isn’t a problem, unless you put in too much water.

Read our review of the Bodum Pebo.

If you are looking for something to impress, or to match your new top hat, then the Nispira Belgian Belgium Balance vacuum brewer is the way to go. Nothing says class and refinement like a throwback to the early days of coffee brewing. Essentially, the NISPIRA is a remake of one of the first vacuum coffee makers. Although it reeks of impractical snobbish elegance, the machine functions just as well as most other modern vacuum coffee makers.

Unfortunately, this gadget is the most expensive on the list; however, I’m sure you already expected this since it literally has “luxury” in the name.

Unlike other vacuum coffee makers, which stack one chamber on top of another, the chambers for the balance siphon are positioned next to each other. Despite this unique design, the Balance Syphon works under the same basic principles, but you can see it in action here:

Unfortunately, the Balance Syphon is not nearly as easy to tweak as other vacuum brewers, and replacement parts can be very difficult to find – it’s more for show, but it still makes darn great siphon brew!

So, you liked the NISPIRA Balance Syphon, but your monocle wearing days are over. You enjoy showmanship, but you want something with more of the open-source nature of the other vacuum brewers. Well, dear reader, the Yama Tabletop Syphon could be the brewer for you.

This vacuum brewer comes with a stylish three-arm stand with a decorated ceramic base, but aside from that, its design is very similar to the Hario Technica.

Unfortunately, its performance is not quite up to par. The rubber seal on the Yama Tabletop Syphon is not always effective, which can prevent a vacuum from forming. However, this brewer does come with its own butane burner, which is a very effective and consistent heat source. Additionally, you have the option to use this vacuum brewer on a stove top.

Have you used any of the vacuum brewers from this list? I’m assuming you also like pour over coffee too, so check our favourite pour over brewers or these really cool slow-drip coffee makers.

Best Coffee Beans for Siphon: Our Recommendations

With all of that in mind, let’s take a look at some of my favorite all-natural coffees to reach for when brewing a cup with my siphon coffee maker.

Light Roasts

Dune Coffee: Ecuador Chito

Dune Coffee: Ecuador Chito

This elegant Ecuadorian coffee features a bouquet of fresh floral notes up front, complemented by zesty citrus and faint hints of spice cake.

Check Price

This single-origin coffee is allowed to shine when using our siphon brewer. The floral and tangerine flavors really come through which gives you a sweet and brighter cup.

Keep in mind though, like with most light roasts, that brightness and acidity can be tougher on your stomach.

This is a great example of the type of coffee we are looking for, but it may not be for everyone at a higher price point.

Blk and Bold Coffee: Limu, Ethiopia – Single-Origin

My budget light-roast pick goes to Blk and Bold’s Limu, Ethiopian light-roasted coffee. This coffee packs a punch and the blueberry and honey-tasting notes really have a chance to sing in a siphon brewer.

Not only are you getting a great cup of coffee but you’re getting it from a great company that donates 5% of its proceeds to helping at-risk youth.

Medium Roasts

Red Bay Coffee: Coltrane

Named after legendary musician John Coltrane, this single-origin tastes excellent when paired with a siphon brewer.

The coffee brings a harmonious balance to the black grape and dark chocolate, producing a cup of coffee that anyone can enjoy.

If you’re trying to impress someone who might not be ready to take the leap into lighter-roasted coffee, this coffee should be at the top of your list.

Stumptown: Holler Mountain

If you’ve spent any time in the specialty coffee world, you’ve probably heard the name Stumptown and for good reason – their coffees are the baseline for me.

You always know you’re going to get a great cup of coffee and their Holler Mountain blend is no different, making this our budget medium roast.

You’re getting a great whole-bean coffee, with a kick of citrus and a nice caramel finish, that won’t break the bank.

In conclusion, if you're a coffee enthusiast who loves the art and science of brewing, a coffee siphon is a must-have in your collection. Whether you go for the traditional stove-top version or opt for the convenience of an electric siphon, the results will be worth it. The Hario Technica Coffee Syphon stands out as a top choice with its sleek Japanese design and exceptional brewing capabilities. But if you're looking for a bit of whimsy in your morning routine, the Tiger Siphonysta Coffee Maker is sure to impress. With the right coffee beans, the siphon brewing method transforms your morning cup into a flavorful and aromatic experience. So go ahead, indulge in the ritualistic delight of savoring the best coffee siphon brewing has to offer.