Kalita Wave
Kalita Wave 102 Dripper - Japanese Flat-Bottom Pour Over Coffee Maker-Black
Description
The Kalita Wave 102 Dripper represents a breakthrough in pour over coffee brewing with its distinctive flat-bottom design and wave-filtered walls. Unlike traditional cone-shaped drippers, this Japanese pour over brewer features a patented three-hole system that promotes even water distribution and consistent extraction, making it easier to brew exceptional coffee at home.
This lightweight plastic wave dripper offers the same professional-quality brewing as the ceramic and stainless steel models at a fraction of the price, making it the best pour over dripper for home brewers, travelers, and anyone new to the pour over method.
Key Features
Patented Flat-Bottom Design
The Kalita Wave's signature flat bottom with three extraction holes creates optimal water flow and even saturation across the coffee bed, reducing channeling and producing balanced, flavorful cups every time.
Wave-Filtered Construction
Twenty vertical ribs along the interior walls minimize contact between the filter and dripper, promoting air circulation and preventing over-extraction from heat retention—a hallmark of Japanese coffee brewing precision.
Lightweight & Durable
Made from BPA-free plastic, this pour over coffee maker is virtually unbreakable and weighs just ounces—ideal for travel, camping, or everyday home use.
Consistent Results
The three-hole flat bottom design is more forgiving than single-hole cone drippers, making it easier to achieve consistent extraction even with varying pour techniques. Perfect for both beginners and experienced coffee enthusiasts.
Easy to Clean
Simple, smooth surfaces make cleanup effortless—just rinse with warm water or place in the dishwasher.
Specifications
- Model: Kalita Wave 102 (Black)
- Material: BPA-free plastic
- Capacity: 1-2 cups (300ml)
- Dimensions: 4.7" diameter x 2.8" height
- Weight: 2.8 oz
- Filter Compatibility: Kalita Wave 102 filters (sold separately)
- Extraction Holes: 3-hole flat bottom design
- Color: Black
- Made in: Japan
- Care: Dishwasher safe
What's Included
- 1x Kalita Wave 102 Dripper in Black
Note: Kalita Wave 102 filters sold separately. We recommend using genuine Kalita Wave filters for optimal pour over results.
How to Brew Pour Over Coffee with the Kalita Wave 102
What You'll Need
- Kalita Wave 102 Dripper
- Kalita Wave 102 filters
- 20g freshly ground coffee (medium-fine grind)
- 300ml hot water (200-205°F)
- Gooseneck kettle (recommended)
- Digital scale and timer
Step-by-Step Brewing Guide
- Prep Your Filter: Place a Kalita Wave filter in the dripper and rinse with hot water to remove paper taste and preheat the brewer. Discard rinse water.
- Add Coffee: Add 20g of medium-fine ground coffee and create a level bed by gently shaking the dripper.
- Bloom (0:00-0:45): Pour 40-50ml of water in a circular motion to saturate all grounds. Wait 30-45 seconds as the coffee blooms and releases CO2.
- Main Pour (0:45-2:30): Pour water in slow, steady circles, maintaining the water level about halfway up the dripper. Pour in 3-4 stages, reaching 300ml total by 2:30.
- Drawdown (2:30-3:30): Allow the coffee to drain completely through the three holes. Total brew time should be 3-3.5 minutes.
- Enjoy: Remove the dripper, discard the filter and grounds, and enjoy your perfectly extracted pour over coffee.
Why Choose the Kalita Wave 102 Dripper?
More Forgiving Than Cone Drippers
The flat-bottom design with three holes provides more consistent extraction than single-hole cone drippers like the Hario V60, making it the best pour over dripper for beginners while still satisfying experienced coffee lovers.
Professional Results at Home
The same Japanese pour over brewer used by specialty coffee shops worldwide, delivering clean, balanced cups that highlight your coffee's natural flavors and origin characteristics.
Travel-Friendly Coffee Maker
Lightweight plastic construction makes this perfect for bringing quality pour over coffee anywhere—camping, office, vacation rentals, or hotel rooms. Never compromise on coffee quality while traveling.
Affordable Entry Point
Experience the acclaimed Kalita Wave brewing method without investing in expensive ceramic or metal versions. Get professional pour over results at an accessible price.
Easy Maintenance
Unlike metal drippers that can stain or ceramic ones that can chip, this plastic wave dripper is virtually indestructible and stays looking new with minimal care.
Kalita Wave 102 vs. Other Pour Over Drippers
Kalita Wave 102 vs. Hario V60
- Kalita Wave: Flat bottom with three holes; more forgiving and consistent; ideal for beginners
- Hario V60: Cone shape with single large hole; requires more precise pouring technique
- Best for: Kalita Wave is the best pour over dripper for beginners; V60 offers more control for experienced brewers
Kalita Wave 102 vs. Chemex
- Kalita Wave: 1-2 cup capacity; quick 3-minute brew time; easy cleanup; portable
- Chemex: 3-8 cup capacity; 4-5 minute brew time; serves as carafe
- Best for: Kalita pour over for solo brewing; Chemex for entertaining
Kalita Wave 102 vs. Melitta Pour Over
- Kalita Wave: Three-hole flat bottom; wave-filtered walls; premium extraction; Japanese design
- Melitta: Single-hole flat bottom; traditional design; economical
- Best for: Kalita Wave offers better clarity and more even extraction
Kalita Wave 102 vs. Bee House Dripper
- Kalita Wave: Unique wave design; three holes; more forgiving extraction
- Bee House: Wedge shape; two holes; ceramic construction
- Best for: Both are forgiving, but Kalita Wave's flat bottom provides more consistent results
Perfect For
- Pour Over Beginners: Forgiving flat-bottom design makes it easier to learn proper brewing technique
- Solo Coffee Drinkers: Ideal 1-2 cup capacity for personal pour over brewing
- Travelers & Campers: Lightweight and virtually inbreakable for coffee on the go
- Office Brewing: Quick, clean brewing without complicated equipment
- Coffee Enthusiasts: Professional results that highlight specialty coffee characteristics
- Minimal Kitchen Space: Compact Japanese design stores easily in any cabinet
- Gift Giving: Perfect introduction to pour over coffee for coffee lovers
Care & Maintenance
Daily Cleaning:
- Discard used filter and grounds
- Rinse wave dripper with warm water
- Air dry or towel dry completely
Deep Cleaning:
- Dishwasher safe (top rack recommended)
- For coffee stains: Soak in mixture of baking soda and warm water for 15 minutes
- Use soft sponge—avoid abrasive scrubbers that can scratch plastic
- Descale monthly if you have hard water
Storage:
Store in a dry location. The durable plastic construction prevents chipping, cracking, or breaking unlike ceramic pour over makers.
About Kalita
Founded in 1958 in Tokyo, Japan, Kalita has been a pioneer in coffee brewing innovation for over six decades. The brand embodies Japanese precision and craftsmanship, creating equipment that honors the art of coffee brewing.
Kalita revolutionized pour over coffee in 2010 with the introduction of the Kalita Wave Dripper. Its patented flat-bottom design with three extraction holes and wave-filtered walls delivers consistent, exceptional results—making it a favorite among specialty coffee professionals and home brewers worldwide.
Every Kalita product reflects the Japanese philosophy of monozukuri (the art of making things with dedication) and yōbi no bi (functional beauty). From precision kettles to innovative drippers, Kalita combines traditional craftsmanship with modern coffee science.
Today, Kalita equipment is trusted in specialty coffee shops globally and used by champion baristas in competitions worldwide. Whether you're new to pour over or a seasoned enthusiast, Kalita makes café-quality coffee brewing accessible to everyone.
Made in Japan. Trusted worldwide since 1958.
Frequently Asked Questions
A: This pour over dripper requires Kalita Wave 102 filters, which are designed specifically for the 1-2 cup size. Wave 155 and 185 filters are for larger drippers and won't fit properly.
No, the Kalita Wave requires its special wave-shaped filters to function properly. The unique wave design is integral to the flat-bottom brewing method.
Yes, this Japanese coffee maker is made from BPA-free food-safe plastic that won't leach chemicals or affect coffee flavor, even with hot water.
The pour over brewing results are identical—only the material differs. Plastic is lighter and more durable; ceramic retains heat better; stainless steel offers a premium feel.
While not required, a gooseneck kettle provides better pour control and more consistent results with the Kalita Wave. A regular kettle works but requires more careful pouring.
Plastic pour over drippers can last years with proper care. Replace if you notice cracks, warping, or persistent staining that affects coffee flavor.
Yes, as long as your mug opening is at least 3.5" in diameter to support the Kalita Wave 102 dripper securely.
Grind size is the primary factor. Finer grinds slow down brewing; coarser grinds speed it up through the three holes. Also check that you're using genuine Kalita filters.
Yes, the flat-bottom design with three holes is more forgiving than the V60's single hole, making it the best pour over dripper for those new to manual brewing.
The Kalita Wave is designed and manufactured in Japan, reflecting Japanese precision and attention to detail in coffee brewing equipment.