When it comes to manual coffee brewing, the Moka pot has remained a popular choice for many coffee enthusiasts. However, with so many different brands and models available on the market, it can be difficult to decide which one is the best fit for your needs. Two popular brands are Alessi and Bialetti, both Italian brands, which is the land of the Moka Pot.
The Alessi Pulcina and the Bialetti Moka Express are each brand’s most popular stovetop coffee maker. In this post, I will tell you the difference between each brand, what you should expect and which would be a better pick for you.
For those who are looking for a sleek and modern design, the Alessi Pulcina may be the better option. Designed by architect Michele De Lucchi, the Pulcina features a unique shape that is meant to enhance the coffee’s aroma and flavor. On the other hand, the Bialetti Moka Express has a more classic and traditional design that has remained largely unchanged since it was first introduced in the 1930s.
Which is a Better Brand? Alessi or Bialetti?
Before I get into the details of each moka pot model, let’s talk about Alessi and Bialetti as a brand, so you can get a sense of what you’re buying when you choose one of them.
Which Brand of Moka Pot is More Popular Among Italians?
Since moka pots are pretty much in every Italian household, it makes sense that they would only choose the best for their coffee. So which brand does Italy prefer?
Both Alessi and Bialetti are well-known and respected brands in Italy. However, Bialetti is more popular among Italians, as it has been around for a longer time and has a more recognizable design. Bialetti’s Moka Pot is a staple in many Italian households and is often used to make traditional Italian espresso. Another reason why Bialetti wins the popularity competition is its affordable prices. Bialetti is a brand that specializes in moka pots, Alessi on the other hand, is a designer brand that makes high-end housewares, including moka pots.
Where Are Alessi’s Moka Pots Made?
Alessi is an Italian company that was founded in 1921. The company is known for its high-end kitchenware and household items. Alessi’s Moka Pots are made in Italy, and the company prides itself on using only the highest quality materials and manufacturing processes. There are a few exceptions though, where some of Alessi’s moka pots are made in other parts of Europe like Romania.
Where Are Bialetti’s Moka Pots Made?
Bialetti is another Italian company that was founded in 1919. Some of Bialetti’s Moka Pots are also made in Italy, and the company is known for its classic and iconic design. However, newly manufactured pots could be made in Romania.
In conclusion, both Alessi and Bialetti are excellent brands that produce high-quality Moka Pots. While Alessi is known for its modern and sleek designs, Bialetti is known for its classic and iconic design. Ultimately, the choice between the two brands comes down to personal preference and style.
Alessi Pulcina vs Bialetti Moka Express
Let’s get to the difference between the most popular model from each brand, the Alessi Pulcina vs Bialetti Moka Express. These two moka pots are quite different in design, but both can produce excellent coffee.
Design and Build Quality
Alessi Pulcina Design and Build Quality
The Alessi Pulcina is a unique take on the traditional stovetop espresso maker. Designed by architect Michele De Lucchi, the Pulcina features a distinctive shape that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. The Pulcina, which in Italian mean Chick, has a spout that was designed to resemble a chick’s beak that allows it to perfectly stop dripping.
The Pulcina is made from high-quality aluminum and has a durable stainless steel filter. The build quality is excellent, and the pot feels sturdy and well-made. The handle is comfortable to hold and stays cool during use, making it easy to pour without burning your hand.
Bialetti Moka Express Design and Build Quality
The Bialetti Moka Express is a classic stovetop espresso maker that has been around for over 80 years. The design is simple and timeless, with a recognizable octagonal shape and a black plastic handle. The Moka Express is made from high-quality aluminum and has a durable stainless steel filter.
The build quality of the Moka Express is excellent, and the pot feels solid and well-made. The handle is comfortable to hold and stays cool during use, making it easy to pour without burning your hand. The only downside is that the plastic handle can sometimes feel a bit flimsy compared to the rest of the pot.
Verdict –
Design wise, if you want something that is more arty, has a distinctive design and simply looks different, Alessi’s moka pot is the way to go. If you’re looking for a classic moka pot design, then Bialetti is your perfect pick.
Stove Top Compatibility
Alessi Pulicina Stovetop Compatibility
There are two kinds of Alessi’s Pulcina pots. Both of them have aluminum cast bodies, but one has a magnetic steel bottom that allows it to be induction ready. The other model will work on gas or electric tops. So if you use an induction hob, make sure you’re getting the right model.
Bialetti Moka Express Stovetop Compatibility
The Moka Express is is compatible with gas, electric or coil stovetops, but not with Induction tops. Unfortunately, they don’t make one that works with induction. But if you want to buy the Moka Express specifically, you can buy Bialetti’s induction adapter to make the moka express work on an induction hob. Alternatively, you can buy Bialetti’s induction moka pot.
Available Capacities
- Pulcina is available in two capacities: 3-cups and 6-cups.
- Moka Express is available 1-cup, 3-cup, 6-cup, 9-cup and 12-cup.
Verdict –
Bialetti’s Moka Express wins for variation
Brewing Process
Alessi Pulcina Brewing Process
The Alessi Pulcina is a unique stovetop espresso maker that uses a specially designed technology in collaboration with Illy Coffee. According to Alessi: “Pulcina encapsulates a small but substantial design innovation that stops dispensing the drink at the right time before the coffee gets a bitter aftertaste. This helps to enhance the full and rich aroma of this drink.“
The process of preparing the moka pot itself works just like any other moka pot. But how the moka pot brews the coffee is exclusive to Alessi. With the Pulcina pot, you are getting the combined experience of Alessi and Illy, two of the world’s leading companies in their fields.
Bialetti Moka Express Brewing Process
The Bialetti Moka Express is a classic stovetop espresso maker that has been popular for generations. The brewing process is simple and reliable, producing a smooth and consistent espresso every time.
Moka Express is as simple to use as other moka pots. However, it takes some trial and error until you can get the brew to taste exactly to your taste. Yet this is a pot that has been selling for generations, so there’s no worries that you might get a bad cup out of it. If you do, it’s only a matter of dialing your brewing process to get it right.
Flavor and Aroma
Alessi Pulcina Flavor and Aroma
The Alessi Pulcina is designed to produce a rich, full-bodied coffee with a creamy texture and a smooth finish. The unique shape of the pot allows for optimal heat distribution, which ensures that the coffee is brewed evenly and at the perfect temperature. This results in a coffee that is full of flavor and aroma, with a rich, velvety texture that is sure to please even the most discerning coffee connoisseur.
Bialetti Moka Express Flavor and Aroma
The Bialetti Moka Express is designed to produce a strong, robust coffee with a bold flavor and a slightly bitter finish. The traditional design of the pot allows for a slower, more controlled brewing process, which results in a coffee that is full of character and complexity. The coffee produced by the Bialetti Moka Express is known for its rich aroma and deep, earthy flavor, which is sure to satisfy those who prefer a more intense coffee experience. Overall, both the Alessi Pulcina and the Bialetti Moka Express produce coffee with distinct flavors and aromas that are sure to please coffee lovers. Which one is the best choice for you will depend on your personal preferences and taste.
Cleaning and Maintenance
Alessi Pulcina Cleaning
The Alessi Pulcina is a user-friendly coffee maker that is easy to use and maintain. The Pulcina is very easy to disassemble and clean. Since it’s aluminum made, it is NOT dishwasher safe. You should only hand wash your aluminum made moka pot, from any brand.
Bialetti Moka Express Cleaning
Like the Alessi, Moka Express is made of aluminum and is NOT Dishwasher safe. Only hand wash. A quick rinse should be more than enough to clean your moka pot. After a while of use though, you’ll want to buff and polish the exterior, just like any other aluminum tool
Overall, both the Alessi Pulcina and Bialetti Moka Express are user-friendly coffee makers that are easy to use and maintain. You’ll want to hand wash them and never put them in the dishwasher to avoid oxidization.
Price and Value for Money
Alessi Pulcina Price and Value for Money
The Alessi Pulcina is a high-end coffee maker with a price tag to match. It is priced significantly higher than the Bialetti Moka Express, which is a more affordable option. However, the price difference is justified by the superior design and functionality of the Alessi Pulcina.
The higher price tag of the Pulcina makes it a bit more exclusive. So if you want to own something that’s unique, or even give a gift to someone special that’s distinctive and unusual, Alessi’s Pulcina is perfect.
Bialetti Moka Express Price and Value for Money
The Bialetti Moka Express is a more affordable option compared to the Alessi Pulcina. It is priced lower and is a good value for money considering its durability and reliability. The Bialetti Moka Express is made with high-quality materials and is designed to last for years with proper care and maintenance.
This is the model to go for if you’re not looking for a statement piece like the Alessi Pulcina. If you’re simply looking for a functional moka pot of high quality and classical design, the Bialetti moka pot is just what you’re looking for.
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