Quick Verdict
The Moss & Stone Electric Percolator is a solid choice for coffee lovers who appreciate bold, traditional percolated coffee with a vintage aesthetic. At $55.99, it offers good value with its stainless steel construction, copper finish, and practical features like the keep-warm function and easy-pour spout.
✓ Best For:
- • Bold coffee enthusiasts
- • Retro kitchen decor
- • Family/office brewing
✗ Not Ideal For:
- • Single-serve needs
- • Quick brewing (7-10 min)
- • Dishwasher cleaning
Table of Contents
Product Overview: Moss & Stone Electric Percolator
In an era dominated by single-serve pod machines and automatic drip coffee makers, the Moss & Stone 10-Cup Electric Percolator brings back the nostalgia and robust flavor of traditional percolated coffee. This electric percolator combines vintage aesthetics with modern convenience, making it a standout choice for coffee enthusiasts who crave that bold, full-bodied brew that only percolation can deliver.
With over 8,886 customer reviews and a solid 4.0-star rating on Amazon, the Moss & Stone percolator has proven its reliability and appeal. The copper finish variant we're reviewing adds a touch of elegance to any kitchen counter, though the unit is also available in purple, red, and silver to match different decor preferences.
Priced at $55.99, this electric coffee pot positions itself in the mid-range category, offering features typically found in higher-end percolators while remaining accessible to budget-conscious buyers. The question is: does it deliver value for money, and is percolated coffee right for you? Let's dive deep into every aspect of this classic brewing device.
Quick Context: A percolator works by cycling boiling water through coffee grounds multiple times using a pump tube system. This creates a stronger, more robust brew compared to drip coffee makers, though some coffee purists debate whether multiple extractions over-extract the coffee.
Key Features & Specifications
Technical Specifications
- Capacity: 10 cups (54 oz)
- Cup Size: 5-6 oz per cup
- Dimensions: 11"H × 9"L × 5.7"W
- Weight: 2 pounds
- Wattage: 800 watts
- Temperature: Heats up to 170°F
- Cord Length: 24 inches (removable)
- Material: Stainless steel body with copper finish
Key Features
- ✓ Keep Warm Function: Maintains ideal temperature
- ✓ Removable Filter Basket: Easy loading and cleaning
- ✓ BPA-Free Knob: Safe polycarbonate handle
- ✓ Ready Indicator Light: Signals when coffee is ready
- ✓ Easy-Pour Spout: Drip-free serving
- ✓ Cool-Touch Handle: Safe pouring
- ✓ Stainless Steel Pump Tube: Durable brewing mechanism
- ✓ Compact Design: Fits standard countertops
The Moss & Stone percolator packs impressive features into a compact footprint. The 10-cup capacity translates to approximately 6-7 standard 8-ounce mugs, making it perfect for families, small offices, or entertaining guests. The 800-watt heating element provides sufficient power to bring water to the ideal percolating temperature quickly, while the keep-warm function ensures your coffee stays hot for extended periods without continuing to brew.
One standout feature is the removable stainless steel filter basket. Unlike some cheaper percolators with permanent baskets, this removable design makes loading coffee grounds and cleaning significantly easier. The BPA-free polycarbonate knob on top allows you to monitor the percolation process through the transparent dome, a classic touch that adds to the vintage appeal.
Design & Build Quality
Aesthetic Appeal
The copper finish is undeniably the star of the show. In a market saturated with sleek stainless steel and matte black appliances, the Moss & Stone's warm copper tones add character and a retro charm to your kitchen. The finish has a brushed texture that resists fingerprints reasonably well, though it does require hand washing to maintain its luster.
The transparent knob on top serves both functional and aesthetic purposes. Watching the coffee percolate through the dome is oddly satisfying and helps you gauge brew strength. The traditional design elements—from the gooseneck spout to the heat-resistant handle—evoke memories of classic percolators from decades past, appealing to those seeking kitchen appliances with personality.
Construction Quality
At 2 pounds, the unit feels substantial without being unwieldy. The stainless steel body with copper finish provides durability while keeping the percolator lightweight enough for comfortable pouring when full. The construction quality is solid for the price point, with no obvious weak points or cheap-feeling components.
The cool-touch handle lives up to its name, remaining safe to grip even when the percolator is at full temperature. The plastic material feels heat-resistant and durable, though time will tell how it holds up to years of daily use. The detachable 24-inch power cord is convenient for storage and reduces counter clutter when not in use.
One area where some users report concerns is the finish longevity. Hand washing is essential—dishwasher use will damage the copper coating and potentially void the warranty. With proper care, the finish maintains its appearance, but those seeking a maintenance-free appliance might prefer the silver stainless steel variant.
Brewing Performance: The Coffee Test
Brew Time & Temperature
The Moss & Stone percolator takes approximately 7-10 minutes for a full brew cycle when making 10 cups. This is standard for electric percolators and considerably faster than stovetop versions. The 800-watt element brings water to the optimal percolating temperature efficiently, and you'll know brewing is complete when the indicator light illuminates.
The unit heats water to approximately 170°F, which is slightly below the ideal brewing temperature of 195-205°F recommended by coffee experts. However, the percolation process involves multiple passes of water through the grounds, compensating for the lower temperature with extended contact time. The result is a bold, full-bodied brew characteristic of traditional percolated coffee.
Coffee Flavor & Strength
Percolated coffee is notably different from drip or pour-over methods. The Moss & Stone produces a robust, strong cup that coffee purists might describe as over-extracted, while traditionalists appreciate as "real coffee." The repeated cycling of water through the grounds extracts maximum flavor and caffeine, resulting in a brew that's significantly bolder than drip coffee.
For best results, use coarse to medium-coarse ground coffee—similar to what you'd use for a French press. Finer grinds can slip through the filter basket, creating sediment in your cup. The coffee-to-water ratio matters significantly: start with 1 tablespoon of grounds per cup (5-6 oz) and adjust to taste.
Pro Tip: Monitor the percolation through the transparent knob. Stop the brewing process early by unplugging if you prefer a milder cup. The longer the percolation continues, the stronger and more bitter the coffee becomes.
Keep Warm Function
The automatic keep-warm function is one of the percolator's most practical features. After brewing completes, the unit maintains coffee temperature without continuing the percolation process. This prevents over-extraction and bitterness that plagued older percolator designs where coffee would continue brewing on the heat source.
The coffee stays hot for 1-2 hours, making it convenient for leisurely morning routines or office settings where multiple people serve themselves over time. However, like all kept-warm coffee, flavor quality gradually declines. For best taste, consume within 30-45 minutes of brewing.
Ease of Use & Cleaning
Daily Operation
Operating the Moss & Stone percolator is refreshingly simple—no complicated programming or multiple buttons. Here's the basic process:
- Fill the percolator with cold water to desired level (marked internally)
- Insert the pump tube into the center
- Add coarse ground coffee to the filter basket (1 tablespoon per cup)
- Place the filter basket on top of the pump tube
- Secure the lid with the transparent knob facing up
- Plug in the unit and wait for the indicator light
- Pour and enjoy when the light signals completion
The easy-pour spout works well when you pour slowly and deliberately. Rushing the pour can cause drips, as noted by several users. Patience during pouring—especially when the pot is full—prevents mess on your counter.
Cleaning & Maintenance
Hand washing is mandatory to preserve the copper finish. The cleaning process involves:
- Unplug and allow the unit to cool completely
- Remove and empty the filter basket
- Remove the pump tube
- Wash all removable parts with warm, soapy water
- Wipe the interior and exterior with a damp cloth
- Dry thoroughly before reassembly
The removable filter basket significantly simplifies cleaning compared to permanent basket designs. Coffee oils and residue rinse away easily, and the stainless steel components are resistant to staining. Regular cleaning prevents buildup that can affect coffee flavor.
Descaling every 1-2 months is recommended if you have hard water. Run a solution of equal parts white vinegar and water through a complete percolation cycle, then run two cycles with plain water to rinse. This maintains heating efficiency and extends the percolator's lifespan.
Pros & Cons
✓ Advantages
- Bold, Traditional Flavor: Produces robust, full-bodied coffee that drip makers can't match
- Attractive Design: Copper finish adds vintage elegance to any kitchen
- Keep Warm Function: Maintains temperature without over-brewing
- Large Capacity: 10-cup capacity perfect for families or offices
- Easy to Use: Simple operation with no complicated programming
- Removable Parts: Filter basket and pump tube make cleaning easier
- Solid Build Quality: Stainless steel construction feels durable
- Good Value: Feature-rich for the $55.99 price point
- Multiple Color Options: Available in copper, purple, red, and silver
- Ready Indicator: Light signals when coffee is ready to serve
✗ Disadvantages
- Hand Wash Only: Dishwasher will damage copper finish
- Slower Brewing: 7-10 minutes vs. 5 minutes for some drip makers
- Careful Pouring Required: Can drip if poured too quickly
- Not for Coffee Purists: Over-extraction concerns for specialty coffee enthusiasts
- Temperature Limitation: 170°F is below optimal brewing temperature
- Finish Maintenance: Copper requires care to maintain appearance
- No Programmable Timer: Can't set it to brew before you wake up
- Ground Coffee Only: Doesn't accept whole beans or pods
- Cord Storage: No built-in cord wrap (though removable cord helps)
Comparison with Competitors
How does the Moss & Stone stack up against other electric percolators on the market?
| Feature | Moss & Stone | Presto 02811 | Farberware |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | $55.99 | $29.99 | $39.99 |
| Capacity | 10 cups | 12 cups | 12 cups |
| Material | Stainless/Copper | Stainless Steel | Stainless Steel |
| Keep Warm | ✓ Yes | ✗ No | ✓ Yes |
| Reviews | 4.0 (8,886) | 4.3 (15,000+) | 4.1 (12,000+) |
| Unique Feature | Copper finish | Low price | Larger capacity |
Vs. Presto 02811: The Presto is the budget champion at $29.99, offering 12-cup capacity and proven reliability with over 15,000 reviews. However, it lacks a keep-warm function and aesthetic appeal. Choose the Presto if you want basic percolated coffee at the lowest price. Choose the Moss & Stone for better features and style.
Vs. Farberware Classic: The Farberware sits between the two in price ($39.99) and offers 12-cup capacity with a keep-warm function. It's a strong competitor, but the Moss & Stone wins on aesthetics with its copper finish and slightly more premium feel. The Farberware edges ahead for pure capacity needs.
Vs. Drip Coffee Makers: Compared to automatic drip machines like the Mr. Coffee or Hamilton Beach models, the Moss & Stone produces stronger, bolder coffee but takes slightly longer to brew. Drip makers offer programmable timers and gentler extraction for specialty beans. Percolators win for traditional coffee lovers who prioritize strength over nuanced flavor profiles.
What Users Are Saying
With 8,886 reviews averaging 4.0 stars, the Moss & Stone percolator has a substantial feedback base. Here's what real users consistently mention:
"Makes the best coffee I've had in years. Strong, hot, and tastes like real coffee should. My drip machine is collecting dust now."
— Verified Purchaser, November 2024
"The copper finish is gorgeous and gets compliments from everyone who visits. It's like having a functional piece of art on my counter."
— Verified Purchaser, October 2024
"Love the coffee it makes, but you have to pour slowly or it drips. Also wish it could go in the dishwasher. Still happy with the purchase overall."
— Verified Purchaser, September 2024
"Coffee is great, but the copper finish started showing wear after a few months. Make sure you hand wash very gently."
— Verified Purchaser, August 2024
Common Praise: Coffee quality, attractive design, ease of use, keep-warm function, value for money
Common Complaints: Dripping when poured quickly, hand-wash requirement, finish durability with improper care
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the Moss & Stone percolator take to brew coffee?
The Moss & Stone electric percolator takes 7-10 minutes for a full percolation cycle when brewing 10 cups. The exact time depends on how much water you use and your desired coffee strength. The indicator light signals when the coffee is ready, and the automatic keep-warm function activates to maintain the ideal serving temperature.
Is the Moss & Stone percolator dishwasher safe?
No, the Moss & Stone electric percolator should be hand washed only. Dishwasher use can damage the copper finish and affect the electrical components. The manufacturer recommends gentle hand washing to preserve the appearance and functionality of the unit. The removable filter basket and pump tube make cleaning straightforward.
What is the capacity of the Moss & Stone percolator?
The Moss & Stone percolator has a 10-cup capacity, which equals 54 ounces total. Note that "cups" refer to 5-6 oz servings (standard coffee measure), not 8 oz mugs. This means you can brew approximately 6-7 standard mugs of coffee per cycle, making it ideal for families or small offices.
Does the Moss & Stone percolator make strong coffee?
Yes, the Moss & Stone percolator brews bold, robust coffee typical of percolator-style brewing. The percolation process cycles boiling water through the grounds multiple times, extracting more flavor and caffeine than drip methods. You can control strength by adjusting brew time and coffee-to-water ratio. Expect a traditional, full-bodied cup similar to classic percolated coffee.
Can you use ground coffee in the Moss & Stone percolator?
Yes, the Moss & Stone percolator is designed for ground coffee. Use coarse to medium-coarse ground coffee for best results - finer grinds can slip through the filter basket and make coffee muddy. Pre-ground coffee works well, or grind your own beans to a consistency similar to sea salt. Avoid espresso-fine grinds.
Is the Moss & Stone percolator worth buying?
The Moss & Stone percolator offers excellent value at $55.99 for those who enjoy strong, traditional coffee and vintage aesthetics. With 8,886+ reviews averaging 4.0 stars, it's proven reliable. The keep-warm function, copper finish, and 10-cup capacity make it practical for daily use. Best for: bold coffee lovers, retro kitchen enthusiasts, and those seeking an alternative to drip coffee makers.
Final Verdict: Should You Buy It?
Overall Rating: 4.2/5
Coffee Quality
★★★★★ 5/5
Design & Build
★★★★☆ 4/5
Ease of Use
★★★★☆ 4/5
Value for Money
★★★★☆ 4/5
Features
★★★★☆ 4/5
Durability
★★★★☆ 4/5
The Moss & Stone Electric Percolator successfully bridges the gap between vintage nostalgia and modern convenience. It excels at what it's designed to do: brew bold, traditional percolated coffee with style. The copper finish adds aesthetic value beyond the typical stainless steel offerings, making it a conversation piece as well as a functional appliance.
At $55.99, it's priced fairly for the features included. The keep-warm function, removable filter basket, and quality construction justify the premium over basic models like the Presto. However, you're also paying for aesthetics—if you don't care about the copper finish, cheaper alternatives exist.
Who Should Buy This Percolator?
- Bold coffee enthusiasts who prefer strong, robust brews over mild drip coffee
- Vintage aesthetic lovers seeking appliances with character and visual appeal
- Families or small offices needing to brew multiple cups at once
- Those seeking simplicity who want straightforward operation without programming
- Nostalgic coffee drinkers who remember classic percolated coffee from years past
- Gift shoppers looking for a practical yet attractive present for coffee lovers
Who Should Skip This Percolator?
- Specialty coffee purists concerned about over-extraction and nuanced flavor profiles
- Single-serve drinkers who only brew 1-2 cups at a time
- Those wanting programmable features like delayed start timers
- Dishwasher-only households unwilling to hand wash appliances
- Quick-brew seekers who can't spare 7-10 minutes for brewing
Bottom Line
The Moss & Stone 10-Cup Electric Percolator is a worthy purchase for anyone who values strong coffee, attractive design, and reliable performance. While it requires hand washing and won't satisfy specialty coffee snobs, it delivers exactly what traditional percolator fans want: hot, bold coffee with vintage charm. The 8,886 reviews averaging 4.0 stars speak to its proven track record. For $55.99, it offers solid value and should serve faithfully for years with proper care.
Ready to Try Moss & Stone Electric Percolator?
Experience the bold flavor of traditional percolated coffee with modern convenience
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