Pour-Over vs French Press
Both are simple, inexpensive manual methods, but they produce very different cups. Pour-over is clean and bright, French press is heavy and rich.
| Pour-over | French press | |
|---|---|---|
| Flavour | Clean, bright, highlights origin notes | Full-bodied, rich, some sediment |
| Filter | Paper removes oils and fines | Metal mesh lets oils through |
| Grind | Medium-fine | Coarse |
| Typical ratio | About 1:15 to 1:17 | About 1:15 |
| Technique | Needs a steady, controlled pour | Add water, wait, press |
| Cleanup | Toss the filter | Rinse grounds from the carafe |
Choose Pour-over if
- You enjoy light roasts and fruity notes
- You want a clean cup without sediment
- You like a hands-on ritual
Choose French press if
- You prefer dark roasts and a heavy body
- You want the easiest method
- You brew several cups at once
The bottom line
Choose pour-over for clarity and French press for body and ease. Either one improves dramatically with a burr grinder and a scale, so budget for those too.