Last Updated on January 26, 2022 by John Moretti
Induction stoves are a popular option for many homes because they are efficient, cook evenly, and produce great meals. However, the Moka fans may look at their traditional pot and wonder… Do Moka pots work on induction stoves? This question has plagued the Moka pot world for years and is surprisingly in-depth.
Traditional Moka pots do not work with induction stoves. Thankfully, this problem isn’t impossible to work around if you love your morning Moka. It simply requires you to adjust your approach, understand ways you can adapt your pot to an induction stove, and the types of induction-style Moka pots on the market.
This type of comprehensive understanding helps you brew without fear or confusion. Here’s what you need to know about induction stoves and Moka pots.
Why Standard Moka Pots Don’t Work on Induction Stoves
To understand why standard Moka pots don’t work on induction stoves, breaking down a few different elements is essential.
First, let’s take a look at the construction of our standard Moka pot. Next, we’ll examine how induction stoves operate. After that, we’ll give you an examination of why this is an issue, and later we’ll give you the insight that you need to find a pot that DOES work for your needs. First, let’s take a look at the construction of our standard Moka pot. Next, we’ll examine how induction stoves operate. After that, we’ll give you an examination of why this is an issue, and later we’ll give you the insight that you need to find a pot that DOES work for your needs.
The Construction of a Standard Moka Pot
The traditional Moka pot, as constructed in Italy (and still used around the world), is relatively simple. Most of them use an aluminum material, which varies in strength and durability depending on the pot.
Aluminum is chosen because it is light, retains heat well, and does not rust. Typically, the whole construction of the pot is made primarily of aluminum, though there are some variations.
This material, while solid and suitable for many heating situations, is not suitable for induction stoves. This is due to the very nature of the stove itself.
Induction stoves don’t operate in the same way that standard electric or gas stoves work. Their unique operation is a big part of their appeal but is also a problem if you’re a fan of the common Moka pot.
How Induction Stoves Work
Induction stoves operate on principles of magnetism to produce heat. They create a magnetic field that interacts with the metal of your pots and pans to produce a current of heat. This helps to create a surprisingly even and high-quality cooking surface, though it is true that it will take longer to heat pots and pans on an induction stove than on a standard option.
-Why is this a problem with Moka pots?
Simply put, aluminum is not a magnetic metal. As a result, it will not work with an induction stovetop and will not heat the way magnetic pans do. This problem is very frustrating for many Moka pot owners.
-What about those stainless steel Moka pots?
There’s good news and bad news here. The good news is that some stainless steel pots and pans will work with an induction stove. The bad news is that some will not – they may heat unevenly or fail to heat at all.
The trick here is to see what other metals are mixed with your stainless steel. Copper is particularly a good option because it works very well with induction stoves.
Ironically, you should aim for cheaper stainless steel Moka pots if you want them to work on your induction stove. That’s because purer steel won’t have the same magnetic capabilities as unpure steel mixed with other metals.
If you can stick a magnet to the side of your Moka pot, it should be usable on an induction stove. Thankfully, you can also take other steps to use your pot on an induction stove.
Induction-Friendly Moka Pots are Available
But, likewise, you can also just get out and buy an induction-friendly Moka pot to meet this need. This suggestion is my favorite. You won’t have to fuss around with an adapter or find a separate plug for your Moka pot. Instead, you can cook your coffee the way it is meant to be done in this kind of pot: on the stove. So let’s take a deeper dive into the world of induction-friendly Moka pots.
I researched a few of the most popular induction Moka pots on the market and found quite a few options that may work for your needs.
The Best 4 Moka Pots for Induction Stoves
I researched the various options available on the market today and narrowed them down to four high-quality Moka pots that I think you’ll enjoy. Each of these pots has been carefully tested and is designed for different types of uses. By understanding your options here, you ensure that you get the high-quality coffee experience that you want and deserve as a brewer.
1. Coffee Gator Moka Pot, Stovetop Espresso Maker
- Three-Ounce Design
- Stainless Steel Strength
- Various Safety Features
My pick for the best overall induction-friendly Moka pots has a stainless steel design that removes the need for a secondary base. In this way, it feels more robust and more reliable than other options on my list. It can also be used in a variety of ways, including preparing traditional coffee, Italian-style options, and even high-quality espresso.
2. Bialetti – Moka Induction Pot
- Four-Cup Capacity
- Strong Induction Base
- Useful Safety Valve
Anyone who’s read more than a few of my reviews knows that Bialetti is the leading manufacturer of high-quality Moka pots. It’s no surprise, then, that they’d make it on this list. This pot utilizes an aluminum top and an induction bottom of stainless steel that works well with induction stoves. Other features include a safety valve that keeps the pot from getting too hot while you brew.
3. AURAUN Stainless Steel Stovetop Moka Pot
- Six-Cup Capacity and Design
- Multi-Stove Type Uses
- 304 and 400 Stainless Steel Materials
All of the Moka pots I’m reviewing for this list are reasonably strong and capable of withstanding much wear and tear. I found that this option featured the kind of high-quality 304- and 400-series stainless steel. I also found that it has a thickness and an extra weight that feels more balanced and reliable. There’s no aluminum in this pot, though: it uses just stainless steel material.
4. Pengrui Stainless Steel Stovetop Coffee Maker
- Soft-Touch Wooden Handle
- Anti-Corrosion Design
- Safety Pressure Valve
Do you want a Moka pot that brews a little quicker than others? Part of the joy of the Moka experience is the wait, mainly since it helps to produce such fantastic coffee. However, this model cooks prepare a little faster than other options while still retaining your Moka flavor. It is beneficial for those who don’t have much time in the morning but want their Moka anyway.
How to Choose a Moka Pot
When choosing a Moka pot for an induction stove, you typically think of the same things you would with a traditional pot. For example, is the material strong and durable? Is the base stable and robust? Do you feel comfortable using this pot? Finally, what is the ultimate quality of prepared coffee? These simple factors all help to make it easier to identify the best induction Moka pot for your needs.
That said, the fact the induction-style base must also be carefully weighed here.
Some factors that also needed to be considered:
- How well does it transfer heat from the stove to the pot?
- Does the material have a strong surface with minimal risk of damage?
- Is the connection between the magnetic base and the aluminum pot strong?
Sometimes, some pots feel like they’re perched precariously on the base and may even come loose.
Also, pay attention to things like the pot’s capacity and how many cups it can make with each brew. In some cases, the information may not have been there. Typically, though, most Moka pot manufacturers will let you know how many eight-ounce cups of coffee you can get with your Moka pot.
Lastly, make sure that you balance your budgetary needs with the type of pot you buy. Seek a pot that feels more within their price range. A cheap stainless steel Moka pot may be the best for your budget. Understand, though, that the heating level may vary based on the material in your pot and could be variant on other factors.
If you find that you can’t afford a new induction-friendly Moka pot, go for the best adapter instead. These adapters will be cheaper than a unique Moka pot and work pretty well. I experimented with a few options and found that they were surprisingly efficient at heating standard Moka pots.
Ways You Can Use Non-Induction Moka Pots on Induction Stoves
If you are not ready to change your old traditional Moka pot to a new induction-friendly Moka pot, there is something you can still do.
There are a few workarounds you can use here. However, I honestly wouldn’t suggest a few of these options unless you’re desperate. For example, I have seen some people place an induction pan on the stove beneath their Moka pot to heat it. Yes, this works, but the transfer of heat is terrible and inefficient.
A much better idea is to buy an induction adapter for your Moka pot. I’d suggest this option for the Moka pot fan who’s on a budget and who just can’t afford to upgrade to a more reasonable solution. Franwachi is a good choice for its size. Not too wide, but not too small.
Franwachi Heat Diffuser Stainless Steel Induction Plate
An induction adapter is exactly what it sounds like here. They sit beneath your Moka pot and on top of the induction stove. They transfer heat to the traditional Moka pot and produce a steady flow of heat.
In a way, using a frying pan is basically the no-cost variation of this solution. Still, I suggest an induction adapter because they’re designed to be more efficient and effective than a frying pan.
Some people may also buy a separate electric Moka pot that doesn’t need a secondary heating source. This solution is suitable for most people, though it will cost more than an induction adapter.
You Can Find a Great Pot for Your Home
With a little research, you should find a Moka pot for your induction stove without much difficulty. I strongly suggest trying one of the options listed above to get the best results. However, I know that these pots won’t fit the needs of every reader. In this situation, pay attention to the facets discussed in the last section. Doing so will make it easier to research and identify a fantastic Moka pot.
