French Press vs. AeroPress: Which One Is Right for You?
Two of the most popular immersion brewers go head-to-head. We compare flavor, ease of use, and cleanup.
Both the French Press and the AeroPress are immersion brewers, meaning the coffee grounds sit in water for the duration of the brew. However, the results couldn't be more different.
If you're new to manual brewing, understanding how to choose coffee beans is crucial for getting the best results. And don't forget—both methods require a quality grinder. Our burr vs. blade grinder comparison explains why grind consistency matters.
Both methods work best with freshly ground beans, so if you're still using pre-ground coffee, consider investing in a quality grinder. Our burr vs. blade grinder comparison explains why grind consistency matters, and our top burr grinders under $200 will help you find the perfect match.
French Press: The Classic
- Flavor: Heavy body, rich, oily.
- Ease of Use: Very simple, but requires a coarse grind.
- Cleanup: Can be messy; grounds need to be scooped out.
AeroPress: The Modern Favorite
- Flavor: Clean, versatile (can make espresso-style or filter-style).
- Ease of Use: Portable, indestructible, and very fast.
- Cleanup: The "puck" of grounds pops right out into the bin.
The Verdict
Choose the French Press if you love a heavy, bold cup and brew for multiple people. Choose the AeroPress if you want versatility, easy cleanup, and a brewer you can take anywhere.
Filter considerations: The AeroPress uses paper filters by default, but metal filters are also available. Learn how paper vs. metal filters affect your coffee's flavor profile. And remember, water quality matters—our ultimate guide to water quality explains how to optimize your water for the best results.
Who This Is For
Anyone looking for a simple, non-electric way to make great coffee at home or while traveling. Both methods work best with freshly ground beans—check out our guide to choosing coffee beans and our burr vs. blade grinder comparison to ensure you're getting the most out of your brew.
Want more comparisons? Explore all our product comparisons to help you make informed decisions.