The GSI Outdoors Ultralight Java Drip is a simple, lightweight, and easy to use coffee making device. With its built-in nylon filter, you can prepare about 2 to 3 cups of coffee. This equipment has made its way to be the best small camping coffee maker on our reviews.
There are some disadvantages that we discovered while testing this equipment. The legs that hold and attach the filter to the mug are fragile so you may accidentally spill the coffee if you pour the water carelessly. Let’s further discuss the features and performance of this coffee maker based on the following topics: brew features, taste, ease of use, group cooking, portability, weight, and value.
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Brew Features
The Ultralight Java Drip by GSI Outdoors has impressed us with its simple design that stands out in the category of coffee maker we have reviewed. If you say coffee maker, there is that misconception perceived by many that all of it looks similar but during our evaluations of different coffee makers, we discovered a lot of designs and features.
This coffee maker was made to be user-friendly. If you take a look at it, you can see that there are three folding cup legs that serve as a stand and clip to attach the filter to your cup. We advise you to be cautious while using it because these legs are quite fragile especially if you are in the process of pouring hot water on it.
However, the filter is not that heavy so you won’t accidentally spill it if you are being wary in using it. It’s not sturdy but not weak at the same time.
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Taste
Since the design is very simple, you really need to adjust the process for you to achieve the taste of coffee that you want. The system of Java Drip is far from the usual coffee maker you can see indoors. It does not possess a complicated machine which may not suit your expectation.
When preparing your coffee, you should remember that the moderate pouring of hot water into the filter will result in a strong flavor but if you do it fast, then expect that the flavor will be light. Slow pouring of water will soak up more the true flavor of the coffee. From our experience, this process is challenging.
This coffee maker is mainly created for camping. GSI Outdoors, the manufacturer of this coffee maker has been active for more than 30 years providing quality camping gear and equipment that has proven to be trusted. One of their smart inventions is the Ultralight Java Drip that can accompany you in your outdoor activities.
Ease of Use
Easy. That’s how we describe the use of GSI Outdoors Ultralight Java Drip. The way we enumerate the process of making your coffee in the Taste section of this review says it all. You don’t need to put or assemble anything. All you need to do is attach the folding cup legs into your mug or cup then put the coffee ingredients into the filter and pour the water on it.
However, the clip is small and it may be hard to attach it if the lip of your mug is thick. So if you are going to pack it, make sure that the cup is fit for the clip. Be careful of the coffee-making process because the legs are unstable but if you prefer compact and lightweight products then we can recommend this to you.
We also advise you to clean the filter properly as the coffee sediments will surely stick when used continuously.
Just like at home, there are different ways to make coffee outdoors. If you’re a coffee lover, you may be wondering about the best way to make coffee while camping. Read our article and discover our favorite coffee making method when we’re outdoors.
Weight
From its name ultralight, you can be sure that this is completely a portable and lightweight coffee maker. Java Drip is one of the most delicate devices we have reviewed. So your search for a small camping coffee maker can be solved with this.
The total weight measurement of Java Drip is 0.32 ounces less than an ounce. We concluded that this may be the peak feature of this coffee maker. You can take it anywhere with you without thinking about weight.
Portability
GSI Outdoors is prominent for camping gear and we can see that Ultralight Java Drip is made to be totally portable for backpacking purposes. This is an ideal coffee maker if you plan to go outdoors. Aside from camping, you can also bring this when trekking, boating, hiking, etc.
The product dimension of this device is 4.2 x 4.2 x 0.5 inches. There are no other parts that need to be installed and you just need to bring it together with your mug. With the simple design, this coffee maker can deliver the coffee you have been looking for outside of your house.
If you’re like us, and couldn’t stand a day without a cup of coffee, even in the middle of the wilderness, then it’s important that you know the many different ways to make coffee. From one coffee lover to another, here are 10 techniques to make coffee while camping.
Group Cooking
Just like the AeroPress Coffee Maker, it allows you to prepare a capacity of 2 to 3 cups of coffee. It’s not a large amount but it is enough for a portable coffee maker. The filter can hold enough coffee grounds for 2-3 cups. Again, the legs are a bit frail so be careful pouring the hot water because it has a huge possibility to spill if you are not being careful.
You can add more coffee for your companion by repeating the process as you can’t prepare several mixtures in one procedure. If you are looking for a device that can provide you more coffee in one go, then this might be the equipment for you. The design is structured for backpacking purposes and let’s talk about it in the next section.
Value
The design of this coffee maker looks just like a big filter with folding cup legs.
GSI Outdoors Ultralight Java Drip, from our perspective, the value is just fair for the portability feature.
If we look on to the side of camping or backpacking, this is a great option for you to consider. Currently, this costs around $10 in Amazon. The body may be simple and feeble but it is versatile and lightweight at the same time.
After you’ve had your coffee fix, you’ll be left with coffee grounds that needs to be disposed properly. Disposing coffee grounds improperly is harmful for the environment and is not in line with the Leave No Trace principle. As a responsible camper, you should know what to do with used coffee grounds.
Conclusion
The GSI Outdoors Ultralight Java Drip is our pick for the best small camping coffee maker. With its portable and lightweight design, bringing it inside your backpack won’t be a hassle. Even though we have discovered a lot of downside of this device, this can still be an ideal coffee maker for outdoor purposes.
It’s not completely lacking, there are just a few things you need to remember before you consider buying this. Limitation and capability. But this is principally structured for effortless coffee making. If you want something simple, then this product is perfect for you.
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