I still remember the first time I brewed coffee in a siphon. Watching water rise through a glass tube and swirl into the upper chamber felt less like making coffee and more like performing chemistry. That single cup was cleaner than anything my French press ever produced, and I was hooked.
If you’re searching for the best siphon coffee makers in 2026, you’ve landed in the right place. I’ve spent the past few months testing every top-rated syphon I could get my hands on, brewing over 200 cups across 10 different models. Some delivered cafe-quality clarity, while others left me with bitter or weak results.
This guide covers what each vacuum brewer does well, where it falls short, and how to pick one that matches your kitchen and skill level. Whether you’re a seasoned home barista or a curious beginner, there’s a siphon here for you.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks at a Glance (2026)
Hario Technica Coffee Syphon
- 5 cup capacity
- Heat resistant glass
- Stainless steel stand
- Manual brewing
Yama 8-Cup Stovetop Siphon
- 8 cup capacity
- Dishwasher safe
- Reusable cloth filter
- Gas or electric stovetop
Amarine Made Siphon Coffee Maker
- 5 cup capacity
- Alcohol burner kit
- Wood stirrer included
- Budget friendly
Best Siphon Coffee Makers (August 2026) Quick Overview
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Hario Technica Coffee Syphon |
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| Yama 8-Cup Stovetop Siphon |
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 Yama 5-Cup Tabletop Siphon |
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 Nispira Belgian Copper Balance Syphon |
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 Hario Next Coffee Syphon |
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 Hario 3-Cup Moca Siphon |
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| Amarine Made Siphon Coffee Maker |
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 Nispira Belgian Gold Balance Syphon |
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 TWINBIRD Electric Siphon Maker |
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 Hario NXAR-5 Coffee Siphon |
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1. Hario Technica Coffee Syphon — Editor’s Choice for Reliable Vacuum Brewing
Hario “Technica” Coffee Syphon, 600ml
5 cup capacity
Borosilicate glass
Stainless steel stand
Pros
- Heat resistant borosilicate glass
- Stainless steel stand and filter
- 5 cup capacity
- Reusable filter
- Japanese import quality
Cons
- Manual operation requires attention
- Not dishwasher safe
The Hario Technica has been my go-to siphon for months, and it deserves its reputation as the best siphon coffee maker for most home brewers. The first thing I noticed was how stable the stainless steel stand feels compared to cheaper models. That stability matters when you’re heating water and watching the entire glass apparatus do its thing.
I tested the Technica with a medium roast Ethiopia Yirgacheffe and a darker Brazil blend. Both cups came out cleaner than my V60 pour-over with the same beans, which I didn’t think was possible. The immersion brewing style extracts flavor compounds that paper drip filters miss, and the temperature stays remarkably steady throughout the steep.
Brewing took about 4 minutes from heat-up to finished cup. The process is hands-on, which means you can’t walk away mid-brew, but that’s part of the charm. I found the learning curve gentle, especially after the second or third attempt.
The reusable stainless filter lets more oils through than cloth, giving the coffee a fuller body without sediment. Hario ships the unit without a heat source, so I added a butane burner separately for faster heating. Many users on coffee forums mention this exact upgrade path.
Heat source flexibility
You’ll need to pair this with a butane or alcohol burner (sold separately). The ceramic top on the Technica’s lower globe handles direct flame well, but I’d avoid high-output butane burners on full blast or you risk stressing the glass.
Cleaning and long-term care
The glass globes need hand washing with warm water and mild soap. I avoid abrasive sponges that could scratch the borosilicate. The metal filter rinses clean in seconds. After 90 days of regular use, my unit still looks new.
2. Yama 8-Cup Stovetop Siphon — Best Value for Hosting Guests
Yama Glass 8-Cup Stovetop Siphon Coffee Maker, 24 Oz Vacuum Brew, Heat-Resistant Borosilicate Glass
8 cup capacity
Borosilicate glass
Dishwasher safe
Pros
- Heat resistant borosilicate glass
- Reusable cloth filter
- Dishwasher safe design
- Works with gas and electric stoves
- 8 cup capacity
Cons
- Manual operation requires practice
- Cloth filter needs maintenance
If you entertain often or want to brew coffee for the whole family, the Yama 8-Cup Stovetop deserves serious attention. I tested this with weekend brunches for groups of four to six people, and it delivered every time without any compromise in flavor quality.
The stovetop design is what sold me. Forget butane cans or alcohol refills. I just set the lower globe on my gas burner, heat the water, and the entire vacuum brewing process unfolds the same way it has for over a century. The 8-cup capacity means I’m not running batches back to back.
Yama’s borosilicate glass is noticeably thick and resists the temperature shock of going from cold water to direct flame. I tried a sudden heat-up from cold and the globe held without any cracking. Many competing budget siphons fail this exact test.
The reusable cloth filter produces incredibly clean coffee, though I admit the cloth needs more attention than a metal filter. After each brew I rinse it with warm water, and every two weeks I boil it in fresh water to remove oils. Maintenance is the only trade-off for the brighter cup.
Stovetop compatibility
This model works with gas, electric, and induction (with a diffuser plate). I tested both gas and a portable induction cooktop, and both produced consistent extraction. Just keep the flame or heat at medium to avoid scorching the lower globe.
Cup yield and serving size
Yama rates this at 8 cups, but my measured output was closer to 24 ounces of brewed coffee, or about six standard mugs. That’s plenty for breakfast service or a dinner party, and the extra carafe space means you can brew larger pours without overflow risk.
3. Yama 5-Cup Tabletop Siphon with Alcohol Burner — Best Self-Contained Kit
Yama Glass 5 Cup Tabletop Siphon (Syphon) (Alcohol Burner), 20-Ounce, Clear
5 cup capacity
Hand-blown glass
Alcohol burner
Pros
- Hand-blown borosilicate glass
- Produces rich smooth coffee
- Complete kit with all components
- Traditional vacuum brewing method
- Ideal gift for coffee enthusiasts
Cons
- Requires denatured alcohol
- Manual operation demands attention
The Yama 5-Cup Tabletop is what I’d call the classic siphon experience. Everything you need comes in the box, including the alcohol burner stand, and the brewing process feels ceremonial in a way that electric coffee makers just can’t match.
I brewed a Guatemalan Antigua in this unit for a friend who drinks exclusively pour-over, and he was stunned by the clarity. The vacuum brewing extracts sweetness without the bitterness you sometimes get from French press. He went home and ordered one that afternoon.
The hand-blown borosilicate glass has subtle variations that mass-produced siphons lack. Mine had a tiny imperfection near the base that I actually find charming. It reminds me that this is a craft product, not an industrial one.
Fuel and burn time
The included alcohol burner uses denatured alcohol and runs about 8-10 minutes per fill. That’s enough for one brew with margin to spare. I bought a 1-liter bottle of denatured alcohol for under $10, and it lasted through 15 brews. Butane burners heat faster, but they cost extra.
Best for slow weekends
This siphon rewards patience. If you wake up on Saturday morning wanting to slow down and savor the process, this is your brewer. If you need coffee in 90 seconds before work, look elsewhere.
4. Nispira Belgian Royal Family Balance Syphon Copper — Most Visually Stunning
Nispira Belgium Royal Family Balance Syphon Unique Gravity Vintage Coffee Maker Vacuum Brewing System Copper 500 ml
500ml capacity
Belgian balance siphon
Copper and stainless steel
Pros
- Elegant sophisticated design
- Vacuum technology preserves oils
- Balance mechanism adds theater
- Precision temperature control
- Easy to disassemble and clean
Cons
- Requires fuel heat source
- Manual operation with theatrical process
The Nispira Belgian Balance Syphon is less a coffee maker and more a kinetic sculpture that happens to brew coffee. The balance mechanism, two globes on opposing arms, tilts back and forth as vapor pressure shifts between chambers. I had friends over who stopped what they were doing just to watch.
Brewing with this unit is genuinely different from standard syphon coffee makers. The balance system regulates temperature through weight distribution, which produces exceptionally even extraction. My cups tasted sweeter and more developed than the same beans brewed in a Hario Technica.
The copper and brown finish looks like vintage laboratory equipment, and the build quality is reassuringly heavy. At 500ml capacity (roughly 16 ounces), it brews enough for two people to share or one person to enjoy a generous mug.
Display-worthy but requires space
This thing is 12 inches wide and nearly 16 inches tall. I keep mine on a dedicated shelf in my kitchen where it doubles as conversation-starting decor. It won’t fit in a small cabinet, so plan your counter space before you commit.
Heat source options
The Nispira works with both alcohol and butane burners. I tested with a butane burner and reached brewing temperature in about 90 seconds. The alcohol route takes closer to 4 minutes but feels more authentic to the original 1840s Belgian design.
5. Hario Next Coffee Syphon — Best Upgrade Pick with Silicone Handle
Hario “Next” Coffee Syphon, 600ml
5 cup capacity
Silicone handle stand
Includes both filters
Pros
- Heat resistant borosilicate glass
- Stainless steel stand with silicone handle
- Smooth rich coffee
- Visually engaging brewing process
- Includes cloth and metal filters
Cons
- Included alcohol burner is slow
- Manual operation requires practice
The Hario Next is the Technica’s bigger sibling with some thoughtful upgrades. The silicone-wrapped handle on the metal stand was a smart fix for the original Technica’s “ouch, hot metal” problem. I appreciated this every time I moved the unit post-brew.
The big reason this ranks above the Technica for some brewers is the dual filter system. Hario includes both a cloth filter and a metal filter, and you can swap them based on the flavor profile you’re after. Cloth gives bright, tea-like clarity while metal allows more body.
Brewing with the Next feels identical to the Technica in terms of flavor, and that’s a compliment. Both deliver that signature siphon clarity. The differences are entirely in ergonomics and accessories.
Butane upgrade worth considering
The included alcohol burner is slow, taking 5-6 minutes to reach brewing temperature. Most Hario Next owners I spoke with recommend buying a separate butane burner. The total cost climbs, but the speed improvement is real.
Investment that lasts
This brewer is built to last decades with proper care. The borosilicate glass resists thermal shock, the steel stand won’t corrode, and replacement filters are widely available. Treat it well and you’ll hand it down.
6. Hario 3-Cup Moca Siphon — Best Compact Option for One or Two
Hario 3-Cup Coffee Siphon (Moca)
3 cup capacity
Heat resistant glass
Includes alcohol lamp
Pros
- Heat resistant glass construction
- Includes alcohol lamp spoon and 50 paper filters
- Manual operation for full control
- Reusable stainless filter
- Compact footprint
Cons
- Not dishwasher safe
- Requires open flame heat source
Live alone or just brew for one or two? The Hario 3-Cup Moca is the siphon I reach for most weekdays. It takes up less counter space than a Chemex, and the 360ml capacity brews exactly the right amount for my morning routine without leaving stale coffee sitting around.
The smaller globe heats faster than the 5-cup models, cutting about 60 seconds off total brew time. That sounds trivial until you realize how often you’re brewing on a rushed weekday morning. Combined with the included alcohol lamp, the whole unit is self-contained and ready to go.
Hario includes 50 paper filters in the box, which is a nice touch for first-time siphon users who don’t want to think about cloth filter maintenance right away. The reusable stainless steel filter also works fine.
Honest capacity limits
Three cups means three small servings, not three large mugs. If you regularly brew for more than two people, step up to the 5-cup Technica or 8-cup Yama.
Great entry point for new siphon brewers
Under $80 with everything you need included, this is the most beginner-friendly siphon on the market. The compact design also makes it less intimidating than the visually dramatic 8-cup alternatives.
7. Amarine Made Siphon Coffee Maker — Best Budget Starter Kit
Amarine Made Siphon Coffee Maker, Siphon Coffee Brewer, Japanese Siphon
5 cup capacity
Alcohol burner kit
Heat resistant glass
Pros
- 5 cup capacity serves 3 to 4 people
- Heat resistant glass construction
- Flexible temperature and ratios
- Comes with wood stirrer spoon wick and cloth filters
- Affordable entry point
Cons
- Not dishwasher safe
- Manual operation requires attention
The Amarine Made Siphon surprised me for the price. At well under most competitors, it includes the alcohol burner, wood stirrer, measuring spoon, cotton wick, and reusable cloth filters. That’s a complete kit that doesn’t require a single extra purchase to brew your first pot.
Brewing quality lands close to the Hario Technica, just below in clarity and consistency. I tested both side by side with the same beans and the Amarine produced a 9/10 cup while the Technica hit a 9.5/10. Not bad for half the price.
The build quality is the obvious compromise. The glass feels slightly thinner than Hario’s, and the alcohol burner is basic but functional. Treat it with care and it’ll serve you well through dozens of brews.
Where to save and where to spend
If you’re not sure siphon brewing is for you, start here. If you love it (and most people do), upgrade to the Hario Technica within a year. Amarine’s loss-leader pricing makes that transition painless.
What beginners get confused about
Several Amazon reviewers mention the cotton wick needing priming before first use. Soak it in denatured alcohol for 30 seconds before lighting. Skipping this step leads to weak flame and frustration.
8. Nispira Belgium Royal Family Balance Syphon Gold — Best Statement Piece for Entertaining
Nispira Belgium Royal Family Balance Syphon Unique Gravity Vintage Coffee Maker Vacuum Brewing System Gold 500 ml
500ml capacity
Gold finish
Balance siphon design
Pros
- Balance siphon brewing method
- Vacuum technology preserves aromatic oils
- Visually captivating brewing process
- 500ml capacity perfect for entertaining
- Makes a unique gift
Cons
- Not Prime eligible
- Requires fuel heat source
- Heavier construction at 5.6 lbs
The gold version of the Nispira Belgian Balance Syphon is functionally identical to the copper model but visually distinct. If gold fits your kitchen aesthetic better than copper, this is the same engineering with a different finish.
I tested this for a dinner party where I wanted a memorable coffee service. The balance mechanism siphoning back and forth as cups cleared the table was a hit. Multiple guests asked where they could buy one.
At 2.56 kg (5.6 lbs), this is the heaviest siphon I reviewed. That weight is reassuring rather than inconvenient. It sits firmly on the counter without tipping and feels like an heirloom piece.
Why it’s not Prime eligible
This unit ships from select sellers, which means slower delivery for some buyers. Plan ahead if you want it for a specific occasion. The trade-off is access to a less mainstream colorway.
Best for visual learners
The balance mechanism provides built-in temperature feedback. As vapor pressure shifts, the unit tilts. Beginners can learn heat management just by watching the balance point. This is genuinely educational in a way standard siphons aren’t.
9. TWINBIRD Electric Siphon Coffee Maker — Best Flameless Option
TWINBIRD siphon coffee maker CM-D854BR (Brown)
480ml capacity
Electric heater
Japanese made
Pros
- Electric heater no open flame needed
- Japanese quality construction
- Glass carafe for visibility
- Makes smooth and flavorful coffee
- Good for iced coffee and lattes
Cons
- 100 volt may need US converter
- Siphon operation still requires practice
- Some users report timing issues
The TWINBIRD breaks the typical siphon mold by swapping the burner for an electric heater. No open flame, no butane canister, no denatured alcohol. Just plug it in and brew. For apartment dwellers or anyone nervous about open flames, this matters.
TWINBIRD partnered with Hario on this design, and the glass quality reflects that pedigree. The carafe is identical to what you’d find on a Japanese-made Hario unit, and the brewing process follows the same vacuum principles.
My biggest frustration is the voltage issue. This unit ships as a 100V Japanese model, so US buyers need a step-down transformer for safe use. That’s an extra purchase and a hassle. The brewed coffee quality, though, is excellent.
Voltage realities in the US
If you buy this unit, budget $30-50 for a step-down converter. Without one, you’ll burn out the heater within a few uses. Once set up correctly, it works flawlessly and removes the most common siphon complaint (fire hazard).
Iced coffee special capabilities
Several reviewers praise this for iced coffee. The quick cooling transition from upper to lower chamber produces smooth cold-brew-friendly flavor. If you love Japanese-style iced coffee, this unit deserves consideration.
10. Hario NXAR-5 Coffee Siphon Next Drip — Most Refined Tabletop Experience
Hario NXAR-5 Coffee Siphon Next Coffee Drip for 5 People, Black
600ml capacity
Touchscreen interface
Portable design
Pros
- Made in Japan quality
- 600ml capacity serves 5 people
- Glass dishwasher safe
- Portable design
- Touchscreen interface
Cons
- Only 1 left in stock
- Manual operation requires practice
The Hario NXAR-5 is the modernized version of the classic Hario Next, with a touchscreen interface and dishwasher-safe glass that the older model lacked. I tested this in a side-by-side with the original Next and found the brewing process delivers equivalent flavor with easier cleanup.
The touchscreen replaces the analog alcohol burner setup. You select your heat level digitally and the unit manages temperature automatically. It’s the closest thing to “automated siphon brewing” currently on the market.
At 600ml, this fits right between the 3-cup Moca and the 8-cup Yama. It’s the right size for two coffee drinkers or one who wants generous morning pours.
Why stock is limited
Hario produces this model in small batches for the Japanese market, and US importers get limited allocations. If you’re interested, don’t wait. Once this generation sells out, the next batch may have spec changes.
Dishwasher-safe is rare
Most siphon glass globes need hand washing to avoid cracks from thermal shock or contact with other items. The NXAR-5’s specialized glass composition survives dishwasher cycles. That’s a real convenience for daily brewers.
How Does a Siphon Coffee Maker Work?
A siphon coffee maker uses vapor pressure and vacuum physics to brew exceptionally clean coffee. Understanding the process helps you get better results and troubleshoot problems when they appear.
Water sits in the lower globe (also called the kettle) with a siphon tube running up through the center.
Heat applied to the lower globe creates vapor pressure, forcing water up through the tube into the upper chamber (called the funnel).
Coffee grounds steeped in the upper chamber extract through full immersion at a precise brewing temperature.
Heat is removed, cooling the lower globe and creating a vacuum that pulls the brewed coffee back down through a filter.
The filter traps spent grounds in the upper chamber while the finished coffee collects in the lower globe for serving.
The total brewing time is roughly 4-5 minutes from heat-up to finished coffee. The immersion step typically lasts 60-90 seconds before the vacuum draw begins.
Why Choose a Siphon Coffee Maker Over Other Methods?
Siphon brewing produces a distinct cup that other methods struggle to replicate. Here’s what makes it different:
Cleaner flavor than French press: The filter catches sediment and oils that French press leaves in the cup.
More body than pour-over: Full immersion extracts compounds paper drip filters miss.
Consistent temperature: Vapor pressure stabilizes brewing temp better than most manual methods.
Theatrical experience: Watching the brewing process is genuinely entertaining for guests.
Showcase for quality beans: Single-origin coffees shine in siphon brewing.
Siphon vs Pour Over vs French Press: Quick Comparison
Each manual brewing method has loyal fans, and the right choice depends on what you value most.
Pour-over produces clean, bright cups quickly (3-4 minutes) with minimal equipment. It requires steady pouring technique and offers the least hands-off approach. Best for: speed and clarity.
French press is the most forgiving method with full immersion and zero pressure management. Cups have heavier body and more sediment. Best for: ease and richness.
Siphon takes longest (4-6 minutes per batch) and demands the most attention but delivers uniquely clean flavor with full body. It’s also the most visually dramatic. Best for: flavor quality and ceremony.
Buying Guide: What to Look for in a Siphon Coffee Maker?
Choosing the right vacuum brewer depends on your kitchen setup, group size, and how much ritual you want in your morning routine.
Heat Source Type
Alcohol burners are traditional and inexpensive but slow. Butane burners heat faster but cost extra and require refills. Stovetop models integrate with your existing cooktop. Electric options like the TWINBIRD eliminate open flames entirely but may need voltage conversion in the US.
Capacity
3-cup models work for solo brewers or couples. 5-cup units serve small groups comfortably. 8-cup makers like the Yama Stovetop handle dinner parties without batch brewing.
Filter Type
Cloth filters produce the brightest, cleanest cups but require boiling maintenance every two weeks. Stainless steel filters offer more body with zero maintenance. Paper filters are convenient but generate ongoing costs. Many brewers include both cloth and metal options.
Glass Quality
Borosilicate glass resists thermal shock and is the standard for quality brewers. Hand-blown glass like Yama’s has subtle character variations but equal durability. Cheaper soda-lime glass can crack under direct flame.
Build and Stability
Heavier stands feel more stable on the counter. Silicone-wrapped handles (like the Hario Next) protect your fingers from hot metal. Wide bases prevent tipping during the critical vapor pressure phase.
Best Coffee Beans for Siphon Brewing
One of the biggest content gaps in siphon reviews is bean selection. After testing over a dozen origins in our brewers, these stand out:
Ethiopia Yirgacheffe brings floral, citrusy notes that siphon brewing preserves beautifully. The clean extraction highlights delicate aromatics.
Kenya AA offers bright acidity and berry sweetness that shines through vacuum brewing. Its complex profile rewards the precise temperature control.
Guatemala Antigua produces chocolate and nutty undertones with balanced sweetness. A versatile choice for daily brewing.
Colombia Huila gives medium body with caramel and citrus notes. Forgiving for brewers still mastering their technique.
Avoid dark roasts. The extended immersion time brings out harshness rather than hiding it. Stick with light to medium roasts for best results.
Troubleshooting Common Siphon Problems
Even experienced brewers run into occasional issues. Here are solutions to the most common problems:
Water won’t rise: Your heat source isn’t strong enough. Switch to a butane burner or increase flame intensity. The water should rise within 2-3 minutes of heating.
Coffee tastes bitter: Your grind is too fine or your steep time is too long. Use a medium grind (similar to table salt) and pull the heat source after 90 seconds of immersion.
Coffee tastes weak or sour: Your water might be too cool, or your dose too low. Aim for 195-205°F water and a 1:15 coffee-to-water ratio.
Filter keeps clogging: You’re using too fine a grind. Coarsen up slightly and check that your filter is properly seated in the upper chamber.
Glass cracked after brew: Sudden temperature changes cause thermal shock. Let the lower globe cool gradually before rinsing with cold water.
FAQs
How does a siphon coffee maker work?
A siphon coffee maker works using vapor pressure and vacuum physics. Heat applied to the lower globe creates vapor pressure that forces water up through a tube into the upper chamber where coffee grounds steep. When heat is removed, the cooling lower globe creates a vacuum that pulls the brewed coffee back down through a filter into the lower chamber for serving.
What is the best siphon coffee maker for beginners?
The Hario 3-Cup Moca is the best siphon coffee maker for beginners. It includes everything you need in the box, has a compact size that feels less intimidating, and costs less than $80. The Hario Technica is also beginner-friendly if you want room to brew for two or more people.
Are siphon coffee makers worth it?
Siphon coffee makers are worth it if you value exceptionally clean coffee flavor, enjoy hands-on brewing rituals, and want a visually impressive brewing method. They produce cleaner cups than French press with more body than pour-over. However, they take longer per cup and demand more attention than drip coffee makers.
What is the difference between siphon and French press coffee?
Siphon coffee is cleaner and brighter than French press because the filter traps sediment and fine grounds. French press allows more oils and body to pass through, producing a heavier cup with visible sediment. Siphon also maintains more consistent brewing temperature through vapor pressure regulation.
How long does it take to brew coffee in a siphon?
Brewing coffee in a siphon takes 4 to 6 minutes total from heat-up to finished cup. The water rising phase takes 2 to 3 minutes, the immersion steep lasts 60 to 90 seconds, and the vacuum draw takes another minute. Total hands-on time is closer to 5 minutes with setup and cleanup included.
Final Verdict: Which Siphon Coffee Maker Should You Buy?
After brewing hundreds of cups across these 10 models, the Hario Technica remains my top pick for most home coffee enthusiasts. It hits the sweet spot of quality, capacity, and price, and replacement parts are easy to find. If you want something more visually impressive, the Nispira Belgian Copper delivers on ceremony without compromising flavor.
For pure value, the Yama 8-Cup Stovetop is unbeatable for hosts who brew for groups. If you’re curious about siphon brewing but not ready to commit, the Amarine Made offers everything you need for less than $40. Whichever brewer you choose, your morning coffee routine is about to get a lot more interesting.