Gear Heads | Coffee Machines: Maximalist vs. Minimalist

[@gulsahfidan2112]

As a Turkish viewer who has been watching ATK for a very long time, listening to Lisa talk about my culture and seeing how she appreciates it is such a wonderful warm feeling. Thank you so much. She is right though, learning how to make good Turkish coffee is a skill you need to learn and it takes time. Even then it comes to preference. Some people like a lot of coffee grounds, light vs dark roast, some boil it 3 times, or very low flame slow brew thing, some like it with no sugar, etc so all the recipes is basically a suggestion, a starting point, a guide to base your preference from. Also, I would like to suggest to Lisa that she should take a look at automatic Turkish coffee machines, they make very good coffee and very good foam (and consistent) that is hard to replicate at every brew when you do it traditionally and they are convenient when you have guests over. I recommend you to prefer the ones with the "Közde kahve" (coffee brewed on hot coals) option, they taste better because it heats the cezve all around not just the coils under it so it brews more evenly, has a more durable even foam. Here are links from amazon of the machines I've tried and liked, but I don't know how you will be able to ship them to USA so maybe try contacting the brand? Hope this helps! Love from Istanbul! www.amazon.com.tr/Arzum-OK004-Kahvesi-Makinesi-Bakır/dp/B01MZ74PGL www.amazon.com.tr/Arzum-OK0010-K-Minio-Kahvesi-Makinesi/dp/B0844VD21Q www.amazon.com.tr/ARÇELİK-TKM-9961-KAHVESİ-MAKİNESİ/dp/B07SHF9TJB www.amazon.com.tr/OK007-OKKA-Grandio-Kahvesi-Makinesi/dp/B08DV39VRY www.amazon.com.tr/ARZUM-OK001-KAHVE-MAKİNESİ-SİYAH/dp/B00NHG5IBA

[@IllyrianPrinces00]

Best part of Turkish coffee is your mother-in-law “reading” your cup and telling you all the bs she wants to tell you but can’t. So she “sees” it in the cup. Cheers to all my people who know my pain.

[@leeboriack8054]

I'd serve her coffee in Yeti thermal cup w a cover.🤣

[@ElliotNesterman]

A few years ago I started using the Aero-press coffee maker and I've never looked back. It really needs to be included in your reviews. Also, it's about as minimalist as you can get.

[@thatguy6225]

Came here to see if they included the Aeropress in their minimalist lineup. It's about as minimal as french press.

[@russbear31]

The AeroPress is my favorite too. I have three. 😀

[@turtlemama888]

I agree completely. I spent years trying various types of coffee makers, one after the other, finally tried the aeropress and haven't used anything else since, it's been at least 10 yeats

[@Jamie_kemp]

Yep, Hario mini mill and an Aeropress for me, about as minimal as it gets

[@LilSmoSmo]

Aero press has been my daily driver for over a decade. For my taste it is as good or better than the french press, but less work. I still use it, but am also using the Hario Switch.

[@peggymallon4585]

Definitely in Lisa's camp as I have all her toys and more. While visiting in Colombia, I learned how to make "tinto". It is made by mixing the water, ground coffee and sugar in a pan, heating on the stove top and then straining before serving. Delicious even if a little time consuming.

[@TechGorilla1987]

Lisa, I doubt that you will read this, but I have relied on your reviews for about 9 years or so. I really trust your opinion and I really dig your personality. Good job!

[@lisamcmanus6656]

Thanks, Tech Gorilla!!! I appreciate your kind words.

[@davestelling]

Woo-hoo! She actually reads these!

[@keetrandling4530]

LOVED this episode. How about a regular ATK how-to-make of the various coffee types? Oh, and Start-to-finish, so including cleaning out the grounds from each coffeemaker/pot.

[@gregbolls7815]

Fresh ground french press for me.

[@allenlam9061]

This was a very enjoyable video, and now I know how a French press, which had always been a bit of a mystery to me, works. I wish, tho', that the Gearheads had included my personal favorite, the Aeropress, which costs about thirty bucks, makes wonderful coffee, and about which more people should have the opportunity to know.

[@Gupta907]

YES! I use my aeropress almost every day

[@elizabethheyenga9277]

Best ever. Just wish they'd make it in stainless steel, how much would that rock?

[@suzannetaylor6285]

My favorite segment.. even better from your homes! Please keep coming out with these... I have binge watched all your older ones and filled my home with all your top recommendations!

[@lisamcmanus6656]

Thanks!!

[@AnimeshPathak]

Hannah and Lisa are my favorites! Thanks so much for this personal look at your coffeemaking conventions.

[@Wynner3]

They have me beat. I just have a French Press (weekends), Aeropress (weekdays), Moka pot (on occasion), and Instant Turkish Coffee powder. I'm still learning ways to make, and also enjoy, coffee after being a daily tea drinker for many years. I drink coffee in the mornings and tea in the evenings.

[@brianklaus2468]

Conclusion: Lisa really really wants her coffee made to perfection

[@kalijasin]

Her coffee making set up looks like a science Lab. Lol

[@peejmele8619]

I LIVE FOR GEAR HEADS!!! So happy to see you again Lisa and Hannah!!

[@micuchua70]

I’m exactly like Lisa. My mood determines the coffee I want. Only one good cup of coffee at day. 9 months ago my husband bought me the Breville espresso machine and I stopped going to Starbucks ever since. It is expensive machine but it is worth it. At the end, it is saving me money by allowing me to make my own delicious coffee at my house.

[@lesliegmail5148]

I’m thinking of gettting it in a couple months for my birthday but I’m only a beginner at making coffee, hopefully I’m not too in over my head if I make that purchase

[@dogsplantscarsneatstuff176]

Thanks for letting me enter your coffee world. Hannah has the Acura of automatic coffee makers to Lisa's Mercedes Benz of a expresso maker. I will say just by looks the Breville looks easy to clean. If you don't go to starbucks these things actually are a very inexpensive kitchen utensil.

[@edbolton]

Like she said 7:20 and 8:20, if you buy a glass french press be sure to check it for any cracks regularly. The added pressure of depressing the plunger can cause it to fail catastrophically, and 100c water will give you type-2 burns instantly. Ask me how I know...

[@mdml0]

As someone who doesn't have a lot of counterspace in my apartment kitchen, I have the Moka pot, the French press, and the Vietnamese phin filter. All depends on how strong I want my coffee. On the other far end of the spectrum I used to have Nescafe decaf instant coffee whenever I'm super lazy. :-D

[@lisamcmanus6656]

OMG, I have instant decaf, too!! (My parents only drank instant, and I make a cup when I miss them. I know it's not "good" but it's nostalgic for me.)

[@tymmezinni]

I use an Espro Travel Press to not tkae up much counter space. My min-counter between my stove and fridge has my beans, grinder, instant kettle, the press, and toaster... all-in-one breakfast stop and room to store things I have to take outta the fridge for other meals n such.

[@Niftynorm1]

@@lisamcmanus6656 Sanka was the standard for years. My mom liked to sprinkle it on ice cream. LOL

[@doobeone]

I love how Lisa has a full Cafe in her kitchen while in the back, uses a $55.00 Black and Decker microwave.

[@B__C]

Priorities.

[@hxhdfjifzirstc894]

I would bet money these kitchens are just another stage/set at ATK... it's not reasonable to make them film in their own kitchen at home. It's an invasion of privacy that adds zero value to the video.

[@dscrive]

I was once given a cup of Turkish coffee, I enjoyed it! about half an hour later I got back in my vehicle and took a swig of my coffee (which I brew strong) and almost spit it out because it literally tasted like weak watery coffee after having the Turkish coffee.

[@huddyrj]

When I factor in, on one hand, cost, and on the other the pure enjoyment of quality coffee, I'd say the French press is my sweet spot.

[@manuscriptsdontburn]

It was great to see Hannah again, she and Lisa are a real super duo :)

[@B__C]

I love the video with them about boning knives. kzbin.info/www/bejne/qKDIdJiprNtjoMU

[@MrsWill-wd3mb]

I just got a cold brew French press and while I knew it would be better than drip- holy guacamole is it a fuller and richer flavor! I want to eventually switch to pour over for hot coffee but I am so happy with this step! We also have a mokapot which is great too.

[@jekku4688]

While I'm typically an minimalist, using a simple pour over on the daily, I am a lot like Lisa, with LOTS of different coffee accoutrements. Depending on my mood (and time of course), I'll make everything from a pour over, to a mocha pot, a drip, a French press, or a Vietnamese drip. Haven't quite mastered the ibrik just yet, either, Lisa!

[@tomcanfield705]

I make my coffee with the Technivorm but found the stock showerhead did not evenly wet the grounds. So I got an aftermarket showerhead, from Australia, which (after bit of fiddling to get it to fit the machine) does much better at evenly wetting the grounds. Now I have maybe $450 in the setup. I make about 20 ounces directly into a 20 ounce Zojirushi mug. And I love the results. Grind the beans, rinse the filter by passing maybe 5 ounces of water through the machine into the closed brew basket, and drain. Bloom a few seconds by closing the brew basket the open the brew basket to let the coffee go right into the Zo. Since the Zo won't brew unless the little button is pushed in ( which the carafe is perfectly sized for) I use a 4 inch PVC end cap (which also serves as an overflow spill catcher) to activate the machine. Hannah you should probably rinse your filter... With the Zojirushi coffee is HOT for many hours. So the further complicate the minimalist setup I usually pour a few ounces into an Ember Mug set at 140 degrees... I also have two other brewing methods I like (but haven't been using much). The Espropress is a cleaner French press which is both easier to clean and produces a less gritty coffee. And the clever dripper is a really neat little rig. Very minimalist that one is. Check out James Hoffman for his methods with the clever dripper. Still looking at espresso machines. Want simple, no built-in grinder or hopper, thinking of the Delonghi Dedica with a couple of extras.. Thanks to you both for your fun and informative reviews.

[@kurtisburtis]

Her “minimalist setup” = $100 grinder & $300 coffeemaker vs my minimalist setup = antique Zassenhaus grinder and a $10 pour over filter.

[@tomatojuice12]

Your setup requires more work and effort.

[@kurtisburtis]

tomatojuice12 Yes, it does.

[@craftygal4494]

Yes, thank you! I was like, thats minimalist set up?

[@briangallentine3810]

My minimalist that very same Bodum french-press.

[@jeffmezzullo5864]

My Minimalist is Aeropress and Gooseneck Kettle.

[@singcook1]

We purchased the Mochamaster Clubline. I’m a minimalist as well. I just want great coffee but I want it every time. The Mochamaster does exactly that and we’ve had it for 4 years. No other coffee maker has lasted that long. I expect t to last another 10 at least.

[@TravelingwithJenny]

We are also minimalists and have the same priorities, so I am glad that we ordered the Mochamaster as we are hoping that it lasts a very long time.

[@ningcheng_shu]

An Italian style stove-top espresso maker similar to the Bialetti on Lisa's table serves me right for many years. So I'm an ultra minimalist I guess, and would love to try the Turkish pot.

[@Ma_Ba]

Turkish Specialty Coffee website gives good instructions. Too many videos on youtube also.

[@chianti95]

Agree - but I prefer a stainless stovetop “espresso” pot vs aluminum. I finally found a replacement for my ancient carmencita lavazza on Italian ebay … exactly the same model, which was discontinued years ago.

[@hxhdfjifzirstc894]

Moka pots are my favorite, but I've found they require a lot of experimenting, to get perfect results. Specific grind sizes for different brands of beans, particular heat settings on the burner, blah, blah, blah. I recently got a Technivorm, because I want to be less involved in making coffee. Grind the beans. Dump them in. Add water. Flip a switch. Also, I like the stainless steel moka pots, better than aluminum (which strongly affects taste) -- if you've never used an SS moka pot and are interested in 'pure' taste, you should try it... but it's quite possible that you might enjoy the taste of the aluminum pot more. Everybody likes something different.

[@mthomas653]

It took me a while to find the Moccamaster in-stock, but I found one for the price you quoted. Once I receive the Moccamaster and the Baratza Encore (that I also ordered today) I expect to start enjoying better coffee. I don't shop. When I decide I need something, I come to ATK to see what is recommended. I appreciate all you do. Thank you!

[@jbw53191]

Very nice, informative presentation. But I'm perfectly satisfied with my stainless steel French press along with a Black & Decker electric kettle. I've had both for almost 20 years.

[@johnmilligan2964]

I go old school! I use a Bunn 10 cup and I always enjoy the flavor it brings out. I am going to start grinding my own coffee.

[@kalijasin]

Thank you Ladies 😁

[@daveftr01]

Those machines look great. Full disclosure, I'm a French Press junkie,. The stainless steel model that I have will last forever and I even have a travel size french press. One thing that wasn't mentioned in your demos was how to clean the recommended machines. Knowing how to clean these machines would make it much easier to pick one, since most of my friends do not appreciate the quality coffee that emerges from a french press.

[@marcilk7534]

What do you use to measure the water temperature?

[@RonLeedy]

Marci LK I use the Cuisinart PerfecTemp Cordless Tea Pot. Set to temp you want.

[@marcilk7534]

Ron Leedy Thank you. I recently bought an electric kettle. It’s a little large for just me, but when I get my French press that’s stuck back in the office, I think it will get some use.

[@Ma_Ba]

Look at Seattle Coffee Gear videos. And James Hoffmann. Some other channels too will pop up in your feed, too numerous to mention.

[@greathornedowl3644]

also a coffee common-sewer 😜 (think Keurig coffee is 🤮), and was used to drip (Mr. Coffee type) but love my Bodum French press. Hint - try Equal Exchange Love Buzz (1/2 Columbian Roast 1/2 French Roast) I think it is phenomenal and a fair trade coffee.

[@helenedesmarais8697]

Had a small Breville espresso 15 + yrs but wanted a grinder. Got the same Breville Barista and I LOVE IT. It heats up in less than a minute. After your initial customized programming ( type of grind, the amount for 1 and 2 servings, the amount of water you want for single/double shot ) , it is super easy and fast. The hardest thing is to learn how to make those nice design with the milk...

[@GadgetsGearCoffee]

My minimalist set is a Kalita wave 155 and espro bloom pour over. I don't have a grinder yet, hot water out of a zojirushi hot water dispenser (one of my must have kitchen appliances I made a video about). Maximalist would be sette 270 grinder, ascaso dream pid espresso machine. If you're really into espresso and reading this, her espresso technique is lacking but ultimately if she's happy that's all that matters. You'll also quickly come to find out 500-800$ is on the cheap side of espresso making and typical a good set of grinder and machine will set you back 1000+ easily.

[@neilyaremchuk6798]

Lisa Mac rules!

[@johnsimoney2035]

“This is my frieend” hahaha 😂 Lisa is so doggone cute!

[@maryeckstein7891]

Have you ever tested percolator coffee makers? I have converted to using the old school percolator for my coffee as I got tired of the drip brew machines that inevitably broke after not many years of use. I reclaimed an old West Bend 9 cup model that may be from 1967. I use it for my "every-day" coffee. I also purchased a modern Hamilton Beach 12 cup model for company. I really prefer the coffee that is made in percolators as it is consistently full bodied without being bitter and won't burn the coffee when left plugged in for an hour and even longer.

[@1Avatar]

I have several perks going back to the early 1900s. Still haven't been learn the right techniques to prevent the bitterness (I drink my coffee black and like it but not so much for other people)

[@effiebug4278]

@@1Avatar remove the basket of grounds after the first cycle. If it keeps cycling over the grounds, the coffee gets bitter.

[@LouieLouie505]

I grew up with percolators (it was just about the only way for most Americans in the 1950-60s). After what turned out to be a short trip down Memory Lane -“Oh haven’t used one of those in decades- let’s do it!” - I was reminded why I switched in the late 1970s. Percolated was awful. Bitter and lacking dimension. Now use French press or moka pot for the same amount of time and fuss.

[@natalialopes719]

I have been looking at percolators. There’s a stovetop stainless steel that is beautiful. Have been wondering how they are at making coffee.

[@davidbergin6184]

I loved the French Press, but the Aeropress won my heart.

[@StormSongs7]

I use my Aeropress upside down. I like press pot coffee but the grounds are a PITA to deal with. With the Aeropress, push the plunger and they pop out of the end of the tube in a neat little package.

[@davidbergin6184]

@@StormSongs7 That’s what I do as well.

[@ToniHinton]

@@davidbergin6184 That makes three of us. I know James Hoffman hates inverted brewing because he's afraid it will be easy to knock over, make a mess, etc. but I'm the world's biggest klutz and I've managed not to do that.

[@stantheman5163]

I'd recommend the Breville Bambino Plus semi-auto espresso maker. I have used it daily for over 2 years and it is fantastic. Automatic steam wand which you can set for temperature and amount of foam you want. Easy set up and clean up. I have my latte within minutes and the machine is cleaned and ready to go for the next morning. Paired it with a Rancilio Rocky burr grinder, but you can use a Capresso if you want to save some coin. I was a French Press guy, but the auto foam feature won me over with this machine. It is the key to easy peasy lattes.

[@andrewmccrea37]

I have a Bunn coffee maker (the home version from the common restaurant option). It's stamped with a Tim Hortons logo. It's a drip brewer which has a built-in hot water tank (200F for perfect flavour extraction) and uses gravity to brew a full 10-cup pot in less than three minutes. It makes the best coffee and is built like a tank. I'll never not own a Bunn in the future. Canadian sales tax included, all in it was $140.

[@gaffawebber]

I have the same espresso machine as Lisa, except that mine is cranberry red. I absolutely LOVE it.

[@danjv]

We just got a Bonavita 8 cupper with the glass carafe. Very pleased with how it brews. The quick way to get the volume of coffee when time is tight. We've also been using a 10 cup Melitta pour over when we have people over and a Hario V60 when it's just the two of us. When moved for a change I get out the French Press or Moka pot. All of our coffee is ground in Baratza's Encore. The biggest improvement in our coffee was when we acquiesced to the Encore.

[@keithkimbrell8616]

I have Hanna’s Moccamaster pot and a Baratza Sette Grinder. It’s heaven in the morning.

[@TechGorilla1987]

I use a Mellitta pour-over daily. I wouldn't have it any other way. I'm on my 3rd burr grinder though. Digital kettle at 207F completes the pair.

[@stefanjohansson3670]

The Moccamaster is fantastic and simple. A bit pricey compared but if you drink a lot of coffee it makes sense. If you pay a dollar per day it's paid within first year. Our is +10y and still going strong. Also compare what you pay for your Starbucks.

[@jasonsummers7129]

It seems like my 50’s percolator does exactly what it should. Perfect every time at a fraction of the price.

[@neilyaremchuk6798]

Perk coffee is fantastic.

[@jettabartholomew1118]

To the minimalist... it's about the "process" 💚 For me it's the same way with; ☕coffee, 🍵tea, 🍹🍸cocktails, 🍷 wine 💚 Sometimes it just needs to be an "event" 💚💚💚

[@Gtank74]

100% nothing wrong with enjoying the process to add a bit of variety throughout by our day.

[@jasonji1900]

Love my Breville. 7 years old and still going strong. And very flexible.

[@chowdownwiththesharpes8441]

I don't drink coffee but that Breville Barista Machine is pretty snazzy! Great video Lisa and Hannah!

[@aaroncomerford8050]

I don't have quite as large as a collection as Lisa, but I have 2 moka pots and a chemex. I use the moka pots when I want a single serving. I used to use a french press but I prefer chemex filters now.

[@therockinwomanify]

I ALWAYS learn so much from you two! Also trust your feedback and have purchased some things based on your findings and also the test kitchen's findings! Thank you 😊

[@lisamcmanus6656]

Thanks so much for your kind words!

[@johnskeff9617]

Can you guys please do a video about indoor grilling options? Like if you live in an apartment or don’t have a backyard for flame? Do you guys recommend electric plug-in grills, grill pans? If so, smokeless? Also, would you recommend getting a grill/air fryer combination?

[@davidbuben3262]

Lisa, my go to is the exact same French press. With the beans and grind I use, I wait 3 minutes for the perfect color of coffee. Yup, I go by color. Slightly see through, and a golden dark yellow. Dark amberish. I Also check temp with my Mk4 thermapen, and use a bamboo chopstick to stir and bloom the grounds! I also crush in some Maldens seasalt onto the grounds. It mellows some of the bitterness. I did this, with tablesalt when I made percolator coffee for my parents as a young boy. I have no idea why I did that, just a hunch I guess. But mom and dad said it was very good. I think maybe I got the idea from my grandma. The best cook ever. She was born in 1887, and had 12 kids, herself, and one husband to cook for. I have hundreds of cousins. All across America.

[@chrismalzahn8645]

All I need is a mason jar and my stainless steel filter! I only like cold brew.

[@derrick_smitty]

It's nice to see positive vibe comments and read and respect peoples experiences, even though we are talking about coffee makers. I will stay away from political posts for a while.

[@DrDocDRM]

Haven’t read all the comments, but no one mentioned the Aeropress yet. Makes a great “fake” espresso or just add more hot water to the cup for an Americano. 60-90 second brew time is great - I wish there was a SS version, though. Also, paired with a small hand cranked grinder it’s the best hiking/backpacking/camping coffee set up.

[@joetacchino4470]

I tried an aeropress and was disappointed in the results. I bought an Espro travel coffee press. It's about the same size as a thermal mug, but makes MUCH better coffee, IMO. I would try it, they aren't all that expensive!. The Espro presses really make some wonderful coffee. And even better...it's stainless. Brew time is 4 minutes, same as a normal french press. Not too bad.

[@durkadur27]

@@joetacchino4470 It was probably just you not knowing how to properly brew with the aeropress.

[@KenS1267]

Get a good burr grinder, a good electric kettle (one that can be set to not just boil water) and a Chemex pot. You'll have great coffee as as any machine and it will be better. I still have a French press but never use it. I got rid of the expensive drip machine entirely once I got the Chemex.

[@MikeKilo1969]

Ken Shaw I prefer French press to chemex.

[@nowjustanother]

Okay, Lisa, I've got the Breville also, and you need to up your game. Get a food scale and weigh out (depending on the freshness of the beans and fineness of the grind), 18-19 grams of ground espresso for a 2 oz.shot. Use a calibrated tamper. And then put the cup on your food scale and do a manual extraction to 2X the number of grams of espresso that you put into the portafilter (i.e. 36 gms shot for 18 gms of ground coffee). The time should be 25-30 seconds. Adjust grind, tamp, or dose as needed.

[@toobalicious]

About 6 years ago, I splurged on a Technivorm Moccamaster. I literally use it every day and it consistently makes the best coffee I’ve been able to find. When my 1 year-old Baratza Vario-W coffee grinder died and the company basically told me “too bad, so sad” - I’ve switched to just buying 1 pound bags of high-end ground beans (which last about a week), and haven’t looked back. I do store them in a special sealed canister. My morning coffee preparation ritual takes about 5 minutes and rewards me with outstanding coffee. Clean-up is minimal and takes about 2-3 minutes (just a quick rinse then air-dry). I don’t baby the coffeemaker, and it just keeps running and is one of my favorite purchases ever. If the Moccamaster died, I’d go buy another one immediately.

[@colby7625]

I have a little Mr Coffee 5 cup. I lightly grind Eight O'clock bean and I'm ready to go.

[@a.mariedixon-jenkins]

Since I only drink black coffee, the simpler the better. So I am with Hannah's setup. I also have 2 French press coffee makers, one glass like the Bodum and a stainless steel one. I prefer the stainless one best, for some reason the coffee taste better. I have a Cuisanant coffee maker I have had for 3 years.

[@mon6745]

Lisa is such a coffee head - I love it lolop... double espresso... pressed... moka.... pour over

[@michaelarighi5268]

Bought my first Bialetti pot in 1966 and used it on a (probably illegal) hot plate in my dorm room. Sold it to a friend in FL who couldn't find one in the early 70s. I'm on about my 4th, at this point. They never wear out, but people keep wanting mine. Picked up a 1-cup in Italy (1 kg of ground Lavazza and the pot=$8.00). Gave it to a friend who'd watched our house while we were gone. I use a Saeco Aroma most of the time now, as my new induction cooktop won't heat a cast-aluminum pot.

[@NelsonWillis-kt8ck]

Love it! Best gift I received. So happy with my purchase

[@jimfromri]

Fun episode. Machines are ok, and the espresso machine looks like great fun, I was always a Chemex fan.

[@teaeyedoubleguhur]

Me too! The best coffee I've ever had was brewed in a Chemex. Doris Day had a Chemex in her MCM apartment in Pillow Talk and there's a reference to them in Rosemary's Baby. (The novel, not the film.)

[@ygbgforever]

No bridge is too far when it comes to their testing...much appreciated 👍🏾

[@mykilpee]

Everyone has their favorite coffee. I like to do Mr Coffee because I can cook my hot dogs and steam my buns at the same time.

[@1Avatar]

I prefer the black and decker mini 😊

[@nearlynativenursery8638]

I prefer my slightly lighter brewed so i can taste the subtle differences between various coffee beans and their specific complex notes of flavors. Most people make their coffee so dark and with chlorinated water so like drinking Army coffee and very bitter.

[@lizdriscoll1306]

What an awesome & most important informative episode. Enjoyed both overviews. Thx

[@FrugalOverFifty]

I love all of these episodes from people’s homes sooooo much. ❤️ I adore coffee but have had to switch to decaf. Still drink plenty!

[@HiFiInsider]

you ladies are awesome. I learn something in every video. Thank YOU!

[@douglassnyder9612]

I have had this model Breville for several years now.. It works great. Shots over ice with a little water... No one knows my name at Starbucks anymore...

[@RonLeedy]

I’m a maximalist. Besides the moment, I choose the method based on pairing it with food or by itself.

[@brucefulton]

Had a Breville and loved it, but after two pump rebuilds at nearly the cost of the machine each including shipping plus all the rigamarole and cleaning and etc. decided the occasional latte at *$ was worth the price vs mostly regular(but fresh ground burr grind good stuff) coffee on a daily basis with the minimalist approach was the way to go.

[@Djoser122]

First, I am in love with these two women. I've had a culinary equipment crush on Lisa for years and Hannah is simply a stellar addition. I'm kind of more like Lisa, with regular Hannah preferences for simplicity. I have a Moccamaster, which is My Precious, but I also like to visit the other equipment I've collected: Aeropress, my old, very large ceramic Melitta pourover that I found in a thrift shop almost 20 years ago for $3, Wacaco hand espresso maker (good for travel), coffee sock, moka pot, French press, and vacuum/siphon pot. I never acquired an espresso machine mostly because of the cost for capable models, but also space reasons. Oh, Hannah, is that an orange countertop? I love it, I have one, too!

[@jeffvarley9792]

Thankyou for bringing your presentation to us all. I enjoyed it.

[@nobrien1]

I had the top MochaMaster but I found it to be flimsy and somehow I got a mold infestation in it that I couldn't get rid of. Yes, it made a good cup of coffee, but.... I replaced it with the Breville BDC400, which on its Gold Cup mode, brews coffee according to the SCA guidelines. I find the Breville coffee even better than the MocaMaster. And it has the plus that you can make up to a 20 ounce mug directly into the mug; perfect for my morning cup.

[@chilldude30]

I have a load of coffe making methods, Moka pot, aeropress, v60, Flair espresso machine. And yet I find myself using my French the majority of the time. Easy and makes coffee so well, and I can use coarser grinds which is helpful because I have a Hario hand grinder. My next coffee acquisition will be a good grinder.

[@brookedolby6853]

I'm a maximalist with a minimalist budget. The only one I still need (I'm saving my money) is the espresso machine. When I need one of them, I have to go to the coffee shop. They still don't taste as good as the ones my son makes at his house. I have goals. hehe

[@jmu4508]

Great post. I think I fall somewhere in between! Have the OXO burr grinder; Have a Bodum French press, a Bialetti Brikka and a traditional Bialetti moka pot. All work great depending on what mood I'm in for coffee and taste fantastic. Having a strainer makes cleaning a French press easy and fast without getting the grinds down the sink. I had a Cuisinart drip machine lasting me 8 years before it died on me. Since my other makers do the job well, that I can make Americanos with the moka pots if I don't want full strength - I'll use these as my daily drivers until the day comes I can get the Bonavita or a Mochamaster. Most cheaper drip machines don't get hot enough to drink unless making a lot of cups at once. The other devices can make hot coffee and will last for many years with care, just replacing a steel filter or ring every few years or so. Thanks guys!

[@deyesed]

Lisa - that pro drip machine is super cool. You could use some practice steaming milk though

[@lisamcmanus6656]

I do need practice!! There's always something to learn, and I enjoy playing with different techniques. One of these days I'll be doing latte foam art, you wait. :)

[@msk3905]

I have 2 moccamaster glass carafe makers and they are fantastic! My wife needs scorching coffee and of the countless makers this hands down makes the hottest cup. Get the correct bean amount and it makes a fantastic cup of coffee! I hear lots of reviews that they are not reliable but i have nit experienced that at all, first was bought @2014 with second @2107 and both have been trouble free. Im sipping a cup from my 2014 maker as I type this

[@Barb6106]

Adore my French press.. have used every morning for 20 years. A trick: pour over One Third of the water and wait 1 minute. Stir to break up the mix..then add the 2/3 water and wait 4 minutes. Press. You get no grit this way. Stirring before press makes grit. Best coffee ever

[@David_T]

I'm a big fan of the Melitta cone filter holder, it is about as simple as it gets. Since it uses a paper filter, you don't have to be too finicky about the grind of the coffee or having residual grounds in your coffee. I had a Espresso machine for a couple of years, but it took longer to clean up than it did to drink the shot of espresso. It was definitely too much work. They should have also mentioned that a 'cup' of coffee is between 4oz and 6oz. The French presses I've used had a cup size of 4oz.

[@314Tazo]

I, also, use the Melitta cone filter holder, it's ceramic. I could never understand the idea of spending so much money on equipment that will last a few years.

[@lisamcmanus6656]

Yes, you're right, cup sizes for coffee makers are all over the place, ranging from 4 to 6 ounces. None of them are the 8-ounce cup measure we expect in the kitchen. I wish they'd standardize this.

[@michaelshane1979]

I have the Bonavita brewer that was mentioned. I've noticed that if you add warm or hot water instead of cold to the reservoir, the brew time is quicker.

[@AdrienneBoswell]

I have Lisa's set up plus a percolator and a brand new cold press from Bodum. I love the variety.

[@JimUe1]

Lisa, you da real MVP.

[@effiebug4278]

Folgers Classic Roast, and a $10 drip coffee maker from Walmart. Done.

[@JerryGDawg56]

Helloooo Hannah!! Nice to see you back!!

[@kippaseo8027]

They didn't test the Kenmore elite drip coffee maker which was rated number one by Consumer Reports. It looks a lot better and takes up less space then either 1 of those 2

[@firstgeer]

Freshly roasted coffee is the most important ingredient. Over the last twenty years I have tried many green coffee beans and roasted them on my own equipment. I never drink coffee that is more than a week old. I mainly use a $19 pour over filter, but I also have a Technivorm. I use an insulated tumbler to keep my coffee hot.

[@Phlegethon]

Cold brew. Switched to this since work from home started.

[@karenseale9372]

I have a Moccamaster, which is awesome, but my personal favorite is the Aero-press.

[@kathleenfox941]

13:51 just watched this and love this episode. I also have so many different coffee makers. Turkish, French Press and two favorites but I really love my Nespresso. Great easy cup of coffee every time

[@travelinghermit]

I use a French press daily. I find it less fussy than a drip machine, doesn't take up any room on the counter. Also, my SO drinks tea every day. So one kettle take care of us both! I won't lie, I prefer to enjoy my coffee, so it hurts to finish my brew and just dump the body thing into my travel cup and run out the door...

[@Bellabeebuzz]

Lance Hedrick is an amazing channel for milk steaming and latte art. Learning from him I always pull my shot before steaming milk and I've been able to start pouring art! The breville I've had for almost a year and I use it every sing day.

[@ducamealy5652]

Thanks to both of you but Lisa, I need much more information on the two other minimalist, the turkish and the other.

[@alainamonts]

i love this! also i got a technivorm because of ATK and would suggest looking for a used one on ebay! managed to get one with a cosmetic issue for $75!!!!

[@lisamcmanus6656]

awesome!

[@annedwyer797]

I thought the Minimalist version would be French press or pour over, but Lisa covered those (she's really the "Varietyalist"!). THANK YOU for not featuring any Keurig-style machines that use those awful single-use, non-recyclable pods. Yes, they make a nice cup of coffee, but with the billions of the empty, used pods in the world, we could probably build a sports stadium or something. I don't know why people who like Keurigs don't use reusable pods more!? I guess they can't be bothered to fill them themselves. I read an article about 10 yrs. ago about the huge success of Keurig, and they quoted the designer as saying he kind of regretted creating the damn things because the pods can't be recycled. And then there was the problem several yrs ago where some recently-manufactured Keurigs wouldn't function unless genuine Keurig-approved pods were used (so you couldn't use refillables, even if you wanted to)

[@MildredGlutz]

I’ve been drinking coffee for many years, have tried many methods and love French press coffee best. Have not tried aeropress yet. Would like to.

[@TheTinkerersWife]

I use an *Aeropress*, a plunger type brewing system that came on the market about 4 or 5 years ago. Cost is around $40...and it makes a lower acid, great tasting coffee that hit high marks with coffee experts, even a local coffee officianado here who sells the higher end makers likes it. That sold me on it. The seal end for the plunger is replaceable, it can take paper or stainless steel filters which come in varying types of mesh. They also make a traveling version. I just pack the one I use every day into a bag, along with my coffee and off I go. Easy peasy and I have more money for beans. So for someone who does not have hundreds of dollars and/or does not have the space for machinery, give it a go. Oh and I still love my Malitta...but use it more for when company comes and I need more cups. Space save, money saving ideas and still get great coffee. I bought mine on sale for $29 at Cost Plus World Market, but it is available on Amazon.

[@steveyork8069]

I use a percolator from the 1960’s it still makes the best coffee I’ve had.I don’t like Starbucks coffee is shite.A local small coffee shop has the second best coffee I’ve had and it’s made in a chemex ,but it’s still $3 for a 20 oz coffee.

[@susanmolnar9606]

I also have used an electric percolator all of my life! So simple to use and you get great Hot coffee every time. I don’t know why it’s never tested. ? Less than $100. Best coffee ever.