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Filter Coffee Machines UK | Drip Coffee Makers

Filter Coffee Machines

Brew clean, consistent coffee at home or in the office with our range of filter coffee machines. From compact drip coffee makers to precision brewers with temperature control and built-in grinders, these machines are designed for reliability, flavour clarity and everyday ease.

At Redber, we stock trusted brands including Moccamaster, Wilfa, Melitta and Sage — all available with fast UK delivery and free mainland shipping over £40.

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Why Choose a Filter Coffee Machine?

Filter brewing extracts coffee gently and evenly, producing a balanced, aromatic cup without bitterness. It’s ideal if you:

  • Brew multiple cups at once
  • Prefer a smoother, lighter profile than espresso
  • Want set-and-brew convenience in the morning
  • Need reliable performance for small offices

Many models, such as Melitta Look V, offer programmable timers, thermal carafes, precise temperature control and automatic shut-off.

Melitta AromaFresh II Therm Pro Grind & Brew Filter Coffee Machine Pouring Coffee

What to Look For in a Filter Coffee Machine

Choosing the right filter coffee machine comes down to a few practical details that affect flavour and everyday use.

1. Brewing Temperature

Consistent temperature is one of the biggest factors in good filter coffee. Proper extraction happens between 92–96°C, so a quality filter coffee machine should maintain stable heat throughout the brew cycle. Brands such as Moccamaster, Wilfa and Sage are known for reliable temperature control and balanced results.

2. Water Distribution

An effective shower head design ensures water spreads evenly across the coffee grounds. Even saturation leads to cleaner flavour and avoids under-extraction or bitterness.

3. Carafe Style

Thermal carafes keep coffee hot without relying on a hot plate, making them ideal if you’ll be serving over a longer period. Glass carafes sit on a warming plate and suit shorter brewing windows at home.

4. Built-In Grinder or Separate Grinder

Some drip coffee machines, such as the Melitta AromaFresh, include an integrated grinder for added convenience. Alternatively, pairing your machine with a dedicated coffee grinder gives you more control over grind size and freshness.

5. Capacity and Speed

If you’re brewing for one or two people, a compact filter coffee maker may be ideal. For larger households or offices, look for a higher-capacity machine that can brew multiple cups consistently without compromising flavour.

Coffee for Filter Machines

For the best results, use freshly roasted beans ground to a medium consistency. Pair your machine with our dedicated filter coffee beans and consider a quality coffee grinder to maximise freshness and flavour.

Choosing the right filter papers is just as important. High-quality filter papers ensure clean extraction, prevent unwanted sediment in the cup and help maintain consistent brewing performance.

Regular maintenance also matters — explore our coffee machine descalers and cleaners to keep your filter coffee machine performing at its best.

Best Filter Coffee Machines for Different Needs

For home kitchens

Compact, reliable models such as the Moccamaster KBG Select and Wilfa Performance deliver consistent brewing temperature and clean flavour with minimal effort. They’re ideal for everyday use when you want quality without complication.

For offices or larger households

Machines like the Moccamaster CDT Grand are designed for higher capacity brewing, allowing you to prepare multiple cups in a single cycle without compromising on extraction or balance — perfect for busy environments.

For control and customisation

The Sage Precision Brewer offers adjustable temperature and brew settings, giving you greater control over strength and extraction. It’s well suited to those who want flexibility beyond a standard drip coffee machine.

For convenience with fresh grinding

The Melitta AromaFresh combines a built-in grinder with a filter coffee maker, allowing you to brew directly from freshly ground beans in one streamlined machine.

Frequently Asked Questions about Filter Coffee Machines

What is a filter coffee machine, and how does it work?

A filter coffee machine, also known as a drip coffee maker, brews coffee by dripping hot water over ground coffee in a filter. The water extracts flavours as it passes through the coffee grounds and then drips into a carafe or pot below. It's an easy and convenient way to make multiple cups of coffee at once.

How do I choose the right filter coffee machine for home use?

Consider factors such as brewing volume, ease of use, and additional features like a built-in grinder or programmable settings. For smaller households, machines like the Wilfa Classic+, Moccamaster KBG are ideal, while larger models like the Bravilor Novo are better for brewing larger batches.

What grind size should I use for a filter coffee machine?

A filter grind (medium-coarse grind) is generally recommended for filter coffee machines. This grind size allows water to flow through the coffee grounds at the right pace, ensuring balanced extraction and flavour. Adjust the grind size slightly finer or coarser based on your taste preference and the specific machine you use.

How often should I clean my filter coffee machine?

Clean the carafe, filter basket, and any removable parts after each use. Descale the machine every 1-3 months, depending on water hardness and usage, to prevent mineral build-up that can affect both performance and taste. Use a descaling solution or a mixture of water and vinegar to clean the internal components.

What are the benefits of a thermal carafe vs. a glass carafe?

A thermal carafe keeps coffee hot for hours without needing a hot plate, which helps preserve the coffee’s flavour and aroma. Glass carafes typically sit on a hot plate, which can overheat the coffee and cause bitterness over time. Choose a thermal carafe if you prefer to keep your coffee warm without altering its taste.

How much coffee should I use in a filter coffee machine?

A good starting point is to use a coffee-to-water ratio of 1:15 to 1:17. This means about 60 grams (around 8 tablespoons) of coffee per litre of water. For a smaller brew, use roughly 15 grams (2 tablespoons) of coffee for every 250ml (1 cup) of water. Adjust the ratio based on your taste preference for a stronger or milder brew.

How can I use different filter types (paper vs. metal) to influence flavour?

Paper filters typically produce a cleaner cup by filtering out oils and fine particles, resulting in a brighter flavour. Metal filters allow more oils and fines through, which can create a fuller-bodied cup with more mouthfeel. Depending on the desired taste, switching between filter types can provide different sensory experiences.

How do I troubleshoot common issues like bitterness or weak flavour in filter coffee?

Bitterness often indicates over-extraction. Try using a coarser grind, reducing water temperature, or shortening the brew time. Weak flavour could mean under-extraction; use a finer grind, increase the coffee dose, or adjust the water-to-coffee ratio. Regular cleaning and proper maintenance of the machine are also crucial to prevent off-flavours.