A proven, high-volume percolator with an enormous track record and dishwasher-safe stainless steel construction. At $76.82 it costs more than many rivals, but nearly 20,000 ratings at 4.5 stars suggest most buyers consider it money well spent.
Households or offices that regularly brew a full 12-cup pot and want a hands-off, fully automatic cycle with button controls.
Skip if
You only need a small pot for one or two people, or you want to keep costs well under $50.
Capacity 12.0 cups
Type Percolator
Coffee input Ground Coffee
Wattage 800 W
Operation Fully Automatic
Controls Buttons
Priced 54% above the category median ($49.99 across 5 tracked models)
Wattage of 800 W - lower than 75% of the 5 models we track
Our scorecard
4.5/5overall
Owner rating4.5/5
4.5 average across 19,420 owner ratings
Popularity5.0/5
19,420 owner reviews, more than most models here
The overall score is owner satisfaction weighted by how many reviews back it, so a high rating from few reviews counts for less. The bars below show where this model stands against the other coffee makers, kettles and brewers we track in this category on price, popularity and size. Context, not marks against it, and our read of the data, not a lab test.
Overview
The Presto 02811 is a 12-cup stainless steel stovetop percolator that operates at 800 watts on standard 120-volt current. Button controls keep the interface straightforward, and the fully automatic operation means you fill it, set it, and walk away while it cycles through brew and keep-warm on its own.
At 2.9 pounds and measuring roughly 9.7 by 13.1 by 6.2 inches, the pot is compact enough for a standard stovetop but roomy enough to serve a crowd. The stainless steel body comes in silver and the whole unit is listed as dishwasher safe, which makes cleanup easier than most percolators in this category.
With close to 19,420 ratings and a 4.5-star average, the Presto 02811 sits among the most-reviewed stovetop percolators on the market. The price of $76.82 is on the higher end for a stovetop model, but the combination of capacity, automation, and long buyer history makes it a low-risk pick for anyone who drinks a lot of percolated coffee.
Pros
12-cup capacity suits families and small offices
Fully automatic operation with simple button controls
Dishwasher-safe stainless steel body simplifies cleanup
4.5-star average across nearly 20,000 reviews is hard to argue with
Works on standard 120V with an 800W draw
Cons
$76.82 is steep compared to basic stovetop percolators
No capacity in ounces or liters listed, so sizing comparisons require extra math
Larger footprint at 9.7 x 13.1 inches may crowd smaller stovetops
Performance notes
At 800 watts the Presto 02811 brews at a moderate pace for a percolator. The fully automatic cycle handles heat regulation without manual watching, which reduces the risk of over-percolating and bitter coffee. The 12-cup output is consistent with what you would expect from a stainless steel pot this size on a standard electric or gas burner.
What buyers say
Across close to 19,420 ratings the 4.5-star score reflects strong overall satisfaction. Common praise centers on build quality, ease of use, and reliable full-pot output. Some buyers note the price feels high for a stovetop percolator, but few report durability problems even after years of regular use.
Is the Presto 02811 compatible with induction cooktops?
Presto lists it for use on electric and gas stovetops. Stainless steel can work on induction if the base contains enough ferrous material, but you should verify with Presto directly before purchasing for an induction range.
Can I make fewer than 12 cups at once?
Yes. Most percolators work fine with partial fills, though you should keep water above the minimum fill line and adjust grounds accordingly to avoid weak or bitter results.
Is every part dishwasher safe?
The product is listed as dishwasher safe, but hand-washing the basket and stem tends to extend their life. Check the included instructions for any part-specific guidance.
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