Grosche Vs. Bialetti Moka Pot (My Choice)

Last Updated on September 15, 2021 by John Moretti

I’m wondering what prompted me to go down this road since we’re talking about two companies that have mastered the art of stovetop espresso machine (Moka pot) design. In other words, they have it down to science. 

However, if I were to give one the edge, it would be Bialetti. Not just because they originated the pot, but because they get better every year, and one of the two most sought after Moka Pots, the Elegance Venus, is my favorite, followed by the Moka Express.

While Grosche is a great stovetop coffee maker brand, it is yet to outshine Bialetti. Some of its Moka pots are more affordable, but Bialetti devices are long-lasting. 

Both companies make aluminum and stainless steel machines, but of course, stainless steel will win hands down unless you get an aluminum design that’s close to flawless like the Moka Express

Still, none of them can stand up to the Bialetti Elegance Venus, which comprises stainless steel for me. It brews a perfect cup every time, has a lovely design, and doesn’t burn. It also works on every stovetop.

The Moka Pot Options

Since its introduction in 1933, Italian ingenuity has become one of the foremost sought coffee-making equipment. Now, the Moka pot has improved and evolved once more.

We can now choose between conventional, fashionable aluminum Moka pots or gorgeous, durable stainless steel ones. Because of its outstanding quality, we can utilize stainless steel for a range of kitchen appliances, and now it’s being employed by espresso aficionados.

But, as we all know, the taste is subjective. Do you prefer something more conventional and less expensive, or something more modern and of higher quality? We’re here to help you out by explaining the distinctions between an aluminum and a stainless steel Moka pot. 

What Is A Moka Pot, Exactly?

Alfonso Bialetti was the first to introduce Moka pots to Italy. Stovetop or Italian coffee makers are other names for these unique coffee appliances.

They’re a simple Italian percolator for creating stovetop espresso-like coffee, and they’ve quickly become one of the most popular methods.

Even though they’re an older piece of equipment, their popularity has only grown over time because they create a delicious cup of coffee and look excellent in the kitchen.

What Does Grosche Bring to the Table?

The MILANO, for example, has Italian safety valves that ensure the coffee percolator can handle the tremendous water pressure that generates throughout the brewing process.

It’s a more cost-effective option than huge electric espresso makers. All you’ll need is a stovetop, either electric or gas, for the stainless steel version. 

What Does Bialetti Bring to the Table?

Cost-efficiency as well and consistently outstanding flavor is what Bialetti brings to your cup every time because of its shape, which allows for better brewing. Easy clean-up is next, whether aluminum or stainless steel. 

Whether you get a large version like the 9-Cup for a big group or the Moka express to take camping or use for yourself at home, the flavor never weakens. It brews rapidly, is easy to use and clean, and is very versatile.

What’s the Difference Between a Moka Pot Made of Aluminum and One Made of Stainless Steel?

The majority of today’s Moka pots comprise aluminum. The creator of the very first Moka pot fashioned it out of aluminum. Because of its capacity to swiftly gain and release heat, he selected that material as the device’s core. 

He also picked aluminum for its cost-effectiveness and adaptability. Aluminum allows Moka pot manufacturers to offer a wide range of color combinations.

Stovetop espresso specialists have learned over time that although aluminum had been the initial choice doesn’t imply it’s the finest.

Top Moka pot brands like Bialetti and Grosche International continue to make aluminum Moka pots. Still, their attention has switched to new and enhanced deluxe all stainless steel stovetop espresso makers.

The most significant distinction between stainless steel and aluminum coffee maker pots, aside from weight, is that we can use stainless steel Moka pots on any burner, such as induction, gas, and electric stovetop.

It renders them considerably more useful in today’s kitchens with glass induction stovetops. Heat and durability are two more significant differences between the two types. Aluminum loses heat quickly; however, stainless steel maintains its heat for a longer time.

Stainless steel stovetop coffee machines are more durable than aluminum Moka pots, which means the Moka pot will last far longer. So, while a stainless steel Moka pot is more expensive than an aluminum design, it is also a sound investment for any espresso connoisseur, according to numerous evaluations.

Let’s look at a few stovetop espresso machines from both companies.

Grosche Stainless Steel Stovetop Espresso

It’s ideal for all stovetops and camping and has a rigid stainless steel structure with a quality matte streak blacktop.

It also has a stainless steel handle and of course, what everyone likes is the Italian Safety Valve which gives an air of safety. It brews six cups in the regular version and ten in the large. 

Those are great, but the drawbacks outweigh the advantages, with most complaints being as follows:

  • Cleaning is a challenge.
  • The lid’s hinge is extraordinarily flimsy and broke within the first few uses
  • The upper section of the machine that makes the coffee does not keep it warm
  • The interior does not appear to be stainless steel and has stains that are difficult to remove
  • The handle becomes extremely hot. 

Now let’s compare it to:

Bialetti Musa 4-Cup Stovetop Espresso Maker 

Bialetti moka Musa Stove top Coffee Maker, 4-Cup, Silver
$42.16
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03/22/2023 01:50 am GMT

It has a similar stainless steel design and a 4-Cup capacity. The machine is easy to use on any stovetop as well. It makes a delicious brew in four to five minutes. 

The only complaint I have, as well as most people, is that you can’t take it camping, but the device itself has no significant issues. 

I’ll now compare Milano and Elegance Venus.

Grosche Milano

Grosche’s Milano is built to last and priced to compete, featuring thick, sturdy aluminum, a heat-resistant handle, and a silicone gasket.

You can get cup sizes between one and twelve. The Milano from Grosche is the most robust and functional aluminum Moka pot we’ve tried so far.

It has a silicone gasket that will last much longer than the rubber ones found in many rivals. The Milano by Grosche has a silicone-coated handle, which means you won’t burn yourself reaching for it. 

It is, however, not recommended for induction cooktops, corrosive and not dishwasher safe. Meanwhile:

Bialetti Elegance Venus 

Bialetti Elegance Venus Induction 10 Cup Stainless Steel Espresso Maker
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The Bialetti Elegance Venus has a beautiful steel body that is both safe and effective at transferring heat.

The padded handle comes in handy when the drinker is hot, and it’s detachable, so you can carry it with you on a long trip. The most notable aspect of Bialetti’s Elegance Venus, however, is that I can use it with heating elements, including induction hobs.

My machine’s sole issue is that the cup sizes are similar to those of an espresso machine.

Other than the Elegance Venus is the Moka Express, which knocks all other Grosche stovetop coffee makers out of the ballpark. 

Bialetti’s Original Moka Express

Bialetti - Moka Express: Iconic Stovetop Espresso Maker, Makes Real Italian Coffee, Moka Pot 6 Cups (9 Oz - 270 Ml) , Aluminium, Silver
$11.00 ($1.25 / Ounce)
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02/17/2024 11:14 pm GMT

It’s yet another fantastic Moka pot from the Bialetti family, with a long list of impressive features.

The Original Bialetti is available in various sizes to match your needs, with cups ranging in size from one to twelve. It has a unique octagonal shape that facilitates even heat dispersion, which is essential for successful extraction.

The anodized aluminum body lends a touch of class to the design, and the Original Bialetti has a well-insulated grip for lifting when it’s hot. To top it off, this Moka Pot comes with an easy-to-follow disassembly guide.

Many campers like the single cup but bear in mind that true coffee connoisseurs demand their brew everywhere they go. It’s simple to transport because it doesn’t take up much space.

It has various sizes and colors available and an octagon shape that makes coffee brewing simpler and tastier.

It is simple to travel with and maintain due to the detachable handle, lasts a long time, and comes with a two-year warranty.

So what’s the downside? It does not work great on an electric stove, yet people everywhere, including myself, love the Express Moka Pot.