Aeropress or Bialetti StoveTop Espresso Maker

LowOdour

Im getting a coffee makerfor xmas! Ok, its an Aldi Coffee Maker (with Thermal Jug!!) that my ma has gotten for me. The good wife has purchased a Grinder and a Milk Frother for me too.

Now, the coffee machine will be great when I just want lots of black coffee quick!

But, over the festive period it would be nice to try some things like latte, mocha's etc so thinking of buying an Aeropress or Bialetti StoveTop Espresso Maker. Budget its 30 so both these come close enough.

In terms of ease of use, speed and maintainability, which would you recommend?

Krusty_Clown

We've been using a Bialetti StoveTop Espresso Maker for years.... until the aeropress arrived in the house. I don't think the moka pot has been used a single time since. Still, if we wanted to make a few cups at the same time, we might dig it out.

Ease of use: Once you get used to the aeropress, I'd vote for it.
Speed: Aeropress.
Maintainability: Both pretty equal. Very little to maintain in either.
Ease of cleaning: aeropress..
Flavour: Aeropress. We still use a moka pot in work (albeit with Lavazza pre-ground coffee) and the difference is pretty substantial.

The good thing about the aeropress is that you don't need a stove; you just need a kettle. The aeropress does use consumables (specifically the paper filters), but I have purchased a reusable metal filter, so don't use the paper filters any longer.

mraie

Have to agree with the last poster. My aeropress is faster and easier than stove top. Makes a very smooth coffee.

Planet X

Same as above two posters.
Two redundant Bialettis in the presses.
Aeropress rules.

Conba

I still dig out the Bialetti for the Lavazza Rossa but mostly use the Aeropress nowadays, same as the above.

nc6000

My Bialetti hasn't been used since I got my Aeropress.

Glebee

Aeropress all the way..