All electric small coffee makers require some sort of filter to use when brewing coffee, though not all of them are the same size or shape. In addition to the physical dimensions of the filter, the material it's made from can have a significant effect on the quality and flavor found in the final cup. While many people opt for the paper filter due to availability and cost reasons, there is a better option available - a permanent gold filter made by Swissgold. The advantage that a Swissgold filter has over traditional paper filters is that it doesn't trap the flavor compounds and oils that are extracted during the brewing process, making for a more complex cup of coffee. A secondary advantage is that a permanent filter never needs to be replaced and can be reused over and over again. Consider purchasing a permanent coffee filter the next time your paper filters run out - you won't regret it.