The Coffee Kits

Chemex vs Hario V60: Which One Results in a Better Tasting Coffee?

Coffee is one of the most popular beverages in the world, and there are many ways to make it. Two popular brewing methods are Chemex and Hario V60. Both are pour-over coffee makers that use paper filters, but they have some differences in design and brewing process. In this article, we will compare Chemex and Hario V60 and see which one results in a better tasting coffee.

Design

The Chemex and Hario V60 have different designs that affect the brewing process and the taste of the coffee. The Chemex is a glass container with an hourglass shape and a thick paper filter. It has a wooden handle and a leather tie that gives it a vintage look. The Hario V60 is a cone-shaped dripper with ridges on the inside and a single, thin paper filter that fits inside. It has a plastic or ceramic body and a large hole at the bottom that allows the coffee to flow out more quickly.

Brewing Process

The Chemex and Hario V60 have different brewing processes that affect the taste of the coffee. The Chemex requires a coarser grind size and a longer brewing time than the Hario V60. It also requires a special pouring technique, called the "Chemex swirl," that involves swirling the coffee around the filter to ensure even extraction. The Hario V60 requires a finer grind size and a shorter brewing time than the Chemex. It also requires a steady pour that saturates the coffee evenly and prevents channeling.

Taste

The taste of the coffee brewed with Chemex and Hario V60 is subjective, but there are some general differences that can be observed. The Chemex produces a clean, smooth, and full-bodied coffee with a bright acidity and subtle flavors. The thick paper filter removes most of the coffee oils and sediment, resulting in a clear and transparent brew. The Hario V60 produces a lighter, brighter, and more delicate coffee with a crisp acidity and distinct flavors. The thin paper filter allows more coffee oils and sediment to pass through, resulting in a more complex and nuanced brew.

Conclusion

Both Chemex and Hario V60 are excellent pour-over coffee makers that can produce high-quality coffee. The choice between them depends on personal preference and brewing style. If you prefer a clean and full-bodied coffee with subtle flavors, go for the Chemex. If you prefer a bright and delicate coffee with distinct flavors, go for the Hario V60. Whatever your choice is, make sure to use fresh and high-quality coffee beans, a good grinder, and a precise brewing technique to get the best results.