Overview
The Bialetti Moka Express 3-Cup is the most iconic coffee maker in history — the original stovetop espresso pot designed by Alfonso Bialetti in 1933, whose distinctive octagonal shape has become a universal symbol of Italian coffee culture. Over 300 million units have been sold worldwide, and the design has remained virtually unchanged for nine decades. The three-cup version produces approximately 130ml of strong, rich coffee that Italians call "moka" — not true espresso by bar-pressure standards, but a concentrated, full-flavored brew with intense aroma and satisfying body. The brewing principle is elegant: water in the lower chamber heats on the stovetop, building steam pressure that forces water up through a funnel of ground coffee and into the upper chamber. The aluminum construction heats quickly and evenly, and the safety valve prevents over-pressurization. The Moka Express requires medium-fine grounds — coarser than espresso but finer than drip — and works on gas, electric, and ceramic stovetops (not induction). The iconic "little man with the mustache" logo has been a kitchen staple in Italian households for generations. For an authentic Italian coffee experience at an unbeatable price, the Moka Express is timeless.
It features a none boiler system made of aluminum. The none pump delivers 1.5 bars of pressure for optimal extraction. It uses a Moka group head.
Priced at $35, the Bialetti Moka Express 3-Cup is designed for budget-conscious beginners and casual coffee drinkers. As a moka pot, it produces strong, espresso-style coffee using a stovetop or electric base — a classic Italian brewing method loved worldwide.
In terms of build quality, the Bialetti Moka Express 3-Cup is a substantial machine, weighing in at 0.5 kg, manufactured in Italy. With dimensions of 90 x 155 x 170 mm (W×D×H), make sure you have adequate counter space. The built-in water reservoir holds 200 ml, making it easy to set up anywhere in your kitchen.
Full Specifications
| Brand | Bialetti |
|---|---|
| Model | Bialetti Moka Express 3-Cup |
| Category | Moka Pot |
| Status | Current |
| Country of Origin | Italy |
| Year Introduced | 1933 |
| Boiler Type | None |
| Boiler Material | Aluminum |
| Pump Type | None |
| Pump Pressure | 1.5 bar |
| PID Control | No |
| Pre-Infusion | No |
| Pressure Profiling | No |
| Flow Control | No |
| Group Head | Moka |
| Water Source | Reservoir |
| Reservoir Capacity | 200 ml |
| Cup Warmer | No |
| Dimensions (W x D x H) | 90 x 155 x 170 mm |
| Weight | 0.5 kg (1.1 lbs) |
| MSRP | $35 |