Yes I use a percolator... it makes the reg grind coffee stronger. Because how it works is it recirculates the hot water/coffee as it perks. I let mine perk for about 10 min then I pull the plug. It keeps it hot enough for me to have my few cups. I do poke a hole in a filter and put a filer in before the grounds in the basket or you will have lots of fine grounds in the coffee.. It is very cute to use also.. hehehe