If you are shopping around for a Bialetti moka pot (great decision, by the way!) and have hit a wall in deciding which model to go for, I totally understand.
I’ve written a few Bialetti comparison posts (that you’ll find linked below) and will continue to write them to help readers decide which moka pot is right for their daily use. This post is dedicated to comparing the Brikka vs Moka Express.
Main Difference
Keep reading to read the detailed comparison.
Top Differences
Here’s the thing. When the word Bialetti is mentioned, we all think of the Moka Express, which is the most iconic and the first ever moka pot to be made. It has proven to be a well-made moka pot with great results for over several decades, so there’s no doubt that it is in fact a great moka pot.
But if you want more flavor, more crema and more intense cup of coffee, you’ll want to use the Bialetti Brikka instead.
The Brikka has a patented design that allows it to make moka with a thick crema, something that the Moka Express cannot do. This is due to the unique pressure valve on the Brikka that regulates the amount of pressure in the pot, allowing for a richer, creamier espresso.
This higher pressure valve is also what makes Brikka makes stronger coffee, even if you’re using your usual coffee beans/grounds. The way the Brikka percolates the coffee is different, and it makes a stronger cup.
Design wise, the Brikka has a slightly different design than the Moka Express. Both of them have that classic iconic look, but the Brikka sports a different bottom that is fully rounded, as opposed to Moka Express’s fully octagon shape.
Overall, if you’re looking for a moka pot that can make a rich, creamy espresso with a thick crema, the Bialetti Brikka is the way to go. In fact, if you’re not a fan of strong coffee and prefer your cup to be more balanced and not as thick as espresso, go for the Moka Express instead.
Pressure Valve
The Brikka has a unique pressure valve that creates a higher pressure during the brewing process. This results in a more flavorful and aromatic cup of coffee. This is something that the Moka Express doesn’t have.
Crema
One of the Brikka’s most notable features is its ability to produce a rich and creamy layer of crema on top of your espresso. This is due to the patented pressure valve that Bialetti uses in Brikka models only. The crema not only adds to the aesthetic appeal of your coffee but also enhances the taste and texture.
Moka Express will produce some type of crema, but definately not as thick as Brikka’s.
Available Sizes
The only downside of the Brikka is that it is available in two sizes only, as opposed to the Moka Express which is available in several ones.
Brikka is available in a 2-cup (3.3 oz) and 4-cup (about 6 oz) capacities. Which is even smaller than what the Moka Express offers for the same cup capacity.
Overall Design
The Brikka has a retro classic design, with a polished aluminum finish that looks great in any kitchen. The handle and knob are made of heat-resistant material, making it easy to handle even when the coffee is hot. It is sold in one color combination only, a silver top with black bottom.
Moka Express is the the iconic design that started it all.
Coffee Taste
As a coffee drinker, you know that taste is everything. When it comes to comparing Bialetti’s Brikka and Moka Express, taste is a crucial factor.
Both of these moka pots produce a rich, flavorful cup of coffee, but there are some differences in taste that set them apart.
The Brikka is known for producing a stronger and more intense coffee flavor than the Moka Express. This is due to the higher pressure of the Brikka’s valve, which allows for a more complete extraction of the coffee oils and flavors. The result is a cup of coffee that is richer and more full-bodied than what you get with the Moka Express.
If you love your moka pot coffee with milk, you’ll love the coffee Brikka produces as a base for a latte or cappuccino.
On the other hand, the Moka Express produces a smoother and more balanced cup of coffee. The coffee the Moka Express produces is in no way weak or mild, it is still quite strong, just does not have the same body or crema as Brikka’s coffee.
It’s important to note that taste is subjective, and what one person considers to be strong or intense may not be the same for someone else. That being said, if you’re looking for a moka pot that produces a bold and flavorful cup of coffee, the Brikka is definitely worth considering.
Stovetop Compatibility
Both the Bialetti Brikka and Moka Express are made of aluminum, which makes them compatible with most stovetops. This includes gas and electric stovetops. However, neither of them is compatible with induction stovetops due to the materials used in their construction.
If you have an induction stovetop, you may want to consider the Bialetti Brikka Induction, which is specially designed to work with induction stovetops. This version has a stainless steel base that allows it to work with the magnetic field of the induction stovetop.
The Moka Express also has an induction-friendly version called the Moka Induction.
Alternatively, you can use Bialetti’s Induction adapter to make any of their moka pot (or any other moka pot) Induction ready.
Cleaning
When it comes to cleaning, both the Bialetti Brikka and Moka Express are made of aluminum and can be hand washed only without the use of detergent. It is important to note that both models are not dishwasher safe and should not be washed with soap or any other cleaning agent.
After each use, you should disassemble the Brikka or Moka Express and rinse it with warm water. Use a soft sponge or cloth to wipe away any coffee residue that may have stuck to the surface. Do not use any abrasive materials or scrubbers as they may scratch the aluminum surface.
For stubborn stains, you can use a mixture of water and vinegar to soak the Brikka or Moka Express for a few minutes before rinsing it with warm water. Make sure to dry the pot thoroughly before reassembling it.
It is also recommended to clean the rubber gasket and filter plate regularly to ensure that they are free from any coffee residue or oils that may affect the taste of your coffee. You can remove the rubber gasket and filter plate from the Brikka or Moka Express and wash them with warm water and a mild detergent. Rinse them thoroughly and dry them before reassembling the pot.
Price Comparison
When it comes to choosing between Bialetti Brikka and Moka Express, price is an important factor to consider. While both models are affordable, there is a slight price difference between the two.
The Bialetti Brikka is slightly more expensive than the Moka Express. The price difference is due to the Brikka’s innovative design, which includes a pressure valve that helps to create a richer, creamier espresso with a thicker crema.
However, the Brikka’s higher price is justified by the quality of the coffee it produces. If you are a true coffee lover who enjoys a rich, creamy espresso with a thick crema, then the Brikka is definitely worth the investment.
If you are on a tight budget and don’t mind sacrificing a little bit of quality for a lower price, then the Moka Express is a good option. It is still a great coffee maker that produces delicious espresso, but it doesn’t have the ability to make thick crema like the Brikka.
Why I Think You Should Buy a Bialetti Brikka over Moka Express
When it comes to choosing between the Bialetti Brikka and the Moka Express, the decision ultimately comes down to personal preference. However, after considering the various features and benefits of each, it is clear that the Brikka has several advantages over the Moka Express.
First and foremost, the Brikka‘s unique pressure valve system allows for a richer, creamier espresso with a thicker crema. This is a significant improvement over the Moka Express, which can produce a slightly bitter taste and a thinner crema.
While the Moka Express is a classic and reliable option, the Brikka’s superior performance and user-friendly design make it a worthwhile investment for any coffee lover. With its ability to produce a high-quality espresso quickly and easily, the Brikka is a standout choice in the world of stovetop espresso makers.
I recommend the Brikka for anyone looking for the strongest cup from a moka pot with an actual layer of crema, which I know many people enjoy. While it’s not entirely impossible getting a crema from other moka pots, it’s not a straightforward task like it is with the Brikka.
How To Use Bialetti Brikka
Related Comparisons
- Bialetti Venus vs Musa & Kitty
- Bialetti Venus vs Moka Express
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- Bialetti vs Alessi Moka Pots
