The Coffee Kits

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

If you're a coffee enthusiast looking to up your pour-over game, chances are you've heard of both the Hario V60 and the Chemex. Both are popular pour-over coffee makers that have gained a loyal following among coffee lovers. But which one is right for you? In this article, we'll take a closer look at both the Hario V60 and the Chemex to help you make an informed decision.

Hario V60

The Hario V60 is a cone-shaped pour-over coffee maker that was first introduced in Japan in 2005. It's named after the 60-degree angle of its cone shape and is known for its ability to produce a clean, bright cup of coffee. The Hario V60 is made of ceramic, glass, plastic, or metal, depending on the model. It comes in various sizes, from a single cup to a larger 02 size, and is available in a range of colors.

The Hario V60 is relatively easy to use, but it does require some skill to get the best results. The coffee grounds need to be ground to the right consistency, the water needs to be heated to the right temperature, and the pour needs to be slow and steady. The Hario V60's design allows for a faster flow rate than other pour-over coffee makers, which can be an advantage if you're short on time.

Chemex

The Chemex is another popular pour-over coffee maker that was invented in 1941 by a chemist named Peter Schlumbohm. It has a distinctive hourglass shape and is made of glass. The Chemex is known for its ability to produce a smooth, full-bodied cup of coffee. It's available in various sizes, from a single cup to a larger 10-cup model.

The Chemex requires a bit more effort to use than the Hario V60. The coffee grounds need to be ground to a medium-coarse consistency, and the water needs to be heated to the right temperature. The Chemex's thick filter paper slows down the flow rate, which can result in a longer brew time. The Chemex is also more forgiving than the Hario V60, meaning that it's easier to get a good cup of coffee even if you're not an experienced pour-over brewer.

Which one is right for you?

Both the Hario V60 and the Chemex are excellent pour-over coffee makers that can produce a delicious cup of coffee. The choice between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference and brewing style. If you prefer a clean, bright cup of coffee and don't mind putting in a bit of effort, the Hario V60 might be the right choice for you. If you prefer a smooth, full-bodied cup of coffee and want a pour-over coffee maker that's a bit more forgiving, the Chemex might be the better option.

It's worth noting that both the Hario V60 and the Chemex require some skill and practice to get the best results. If you're new to pour-over brewing, it's a good idea to start with a simpler method, such as a French press or a drip coffee maker, before moving on to a pour-over coffee maker.

Conclusion

Both the Hario V60 and the Chemex are popular pour-over coffee makers that have their own unique strengths and weaknesses. Ultimately, the choice between the two comes down to personal preference and brewing style. If you're an experienced pour-over brewer looking for a clean, bright cup of coffee, the Hario V60 might be the right choice for you. If you're a beginner or prefer a smooth, full-bodied cup of coffee, the Chemex might be a better option. Whatever you choose, remember that practice makes perfect, and with a bit of patience and skill, you can brew a delicious cup of coffee with either of these pour-over coffee makers.