The Coffee Kits

Hario V60 vs. Chemex: Which One is Right for You?

If you're a coffee lover, you know that the brewing method you choose can make a big difference in the taste of your coffee. Two popular pour-over coffee makers are the Hario V60 and Chemex. Both are known for producing a clean and flavorful cup of coffee, but they have some differences that may make one more appealing to you than the other. In this article, we'll compare the Hario V60 and Chemex to help you decide which one is right for you.

The Hario V60

The Hario V60 is a cone-shaped pour-over coffee maker that uses a paper filter. It was created by the Japanese company Hario in 2005 and has since become a popular choice among coffee enthusiasts. The V60 is known for its ability to produce a clean and bright cup of coffee with a lighter body.

Design

The Hario V60 has a simple design that consists of a cone-shaped dripper, a large hole at the bottom, and spiral ridges along the sides. The ridges help to create a space between the filter and the dripper, allowing for better water flow and a more even extraction.

Brewing process

To brew coffee with the Hario V60, you'll need to place a paper filter in the dripper and wet it with hot water. This helps to remove any paper taste and preheat the dripper. Next, add your ground coffee to the filter and gently shake it to level the grounds. Finally, pour hot water over the coffee in a circular motion, starting from the center and working your way outwards. The entire process should take around 3-4 minutes.

The Chemex

The Chemex is a glass pour-over coffee maker that uses a thicker paper filter. It was invented in 1941 by the German chemist Peter Schlumbohm and has since become an iconic piece of coffee brewing equipment. The Chemex is known for producing a clean and smooth cup of coffee with a heavier body.

Design

The Chemex has a distinctive hourglass shape and is made of borosilicate glass. It uses a thick paper filter that is 20-30% thicker than most paper filters, which helps to remove more oils and sediment from the coffee. The Chemex also comes with a wooden collar and leather tie, which not only looks stylish but also helps to insulate the glass and protect your hands from the heat.

Brewing process

To brew coffee with the Chemex, you'll need to place a paper filter in the top of the brewer and wet it with hot water. Next, add your ground coffee to the filter and gently shake it to level the grounds. Finally, pour hot water over the coffee in a circular motion, starting from the center and working your way outwards. The entire process should take around 4-5 minutes.

Which One is Right for You?

So, which one should you choose? It really depends on your personal preferences. If you prefer a lighter and brighter cup of coffee, the Hario V60 is a great choice. It's also a good option if you're new to pour-over coffee and want a simple and affordable brewer. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier and smoother cup of coffee, the Chemex is a better choice. It's also a great option if you want a stylish and iconic brewer that will look great on your kitchen counter.

Ultimately, both the Hario V60 and Chemex are excellent pour-over coffee makers that can produce a clean and flavorful cup of coffee. Whichever one you choose, be sure to use high-quality coffee beans, a good grinder, and a precise kettle to get the best results.