Hario Mizudashi vs Coffee Gator Side-by-Side Comparison
Hario Mizudashi cold brew coffee maker vs Coffee Gator. A brewer that doesn’t work and one that may suit your needs.
Specifications
Design
The Hario scored well for its build quality, but it fell short on the key fundamentals of the lid and filter design. Overall, the design did not contribute to producing a good quality brew.
The overall design of the Coffee Gator is simple and practical. The way the lid works is particularly nice, but the handle needs rethinking. The stainless steel measuring spoon and silicone funnel are also quite versatile in and of themselves.
Usability Comparison
The Hario Mizudashi is really easy to use because it requires little effort. Additionally, it is easy to brew without having to measure out the grounds or water. The tall size is a little troublesome when hand washing, but everything is dishwasher safe. Our key issue, however, is with the non-airtight design.
Coffee Gator is exceptionally easy to use because of the included measuring spoon and silicone pouring funnel. The filter attaches securely and effortlessly, and the lid design is most practical. Hand cleaning is also no issue.
Brew Quality
The Hario Mizudashi was an overall poor performer. The brew lacked complexity and had an overall sourish taste. This was largely down to a short filter, a poor brew ratio, and a non-airtight vessel. One way to improve the brew quality would be hot blooming where you pour hot water over the grounds and allow to bloom for 30 to 40 seconds before pouring cold water.
The brew quality of the Coffee Gator was fairly average and much in line with other immersion brewers with a similar ratio. The brew lacked complexity overall but was drinkable enough without dilution. Hot blooming may be an option, but many people prefer a stainless steel filter for this.
Overall Scores
Pros & Cons
- Attractive brew decanter
- Easy-to-clean filter
- Color choice
- Hot or cold brewing
- Quality of glass carafe
- Additional spoon and funnel
- Neat and clever lid
- Twist to pour lid
- Personalized extras
- Not airtight
- Odor contamination
- Poor brew quality
- Grip and length of handle
- Brew rather average
Conclusion
Most cold brew coffee makers we tested out-performed the Hario Mizudashi. The Hario doesn’t work as a cold brew coffee maker due to its non-airtight lid design, short filter, and poor brew ratio. Its tall and slender glass carafe is, however, an eye-catcher.
If you’re happy with an average to mild brew and the convenience of a small brewer for a refrigerator door bin, the Coffee Gator is not a bad choice. Its twist-to-pour lid design is also convenient. Additionally, it comes with a couple of thoughtful extras namely a stainless steel measuring spoon and a silicone funnel for pouring in grounds and water.
Behind the Comparison
Roger Shitaki is a writer, author, and editor. His niches are household appliances, health & wellness, and travel. He’s a freelance contributor to a Tokyo lifestyle website and a leading ophthalmology magazine in Asia.
