Chemex vs V60 – The Showdown

Pour-over coffee lovers are always in search of the perfect brew, and two names often come up: Chemex and Hario V60. These two methods are well-known for unlocking the natural flavors of coffee beans, but which one reigns supreme? Let’s dive right in and find out.

The Chemex, brainchild of Dr. Peter Schlumbohm in 1941, has carved a name for itself as a classic coffee maker. It’s renowned not only for its beauty but also for its reliability. Made from heat-resistant borosilicate glass, it uses special paper filters to ensure that the brightest flavors make their way into your cup. Its design ensures water flows at the right pace and keeps the heat and aromatics intact during brewing, making it a timeless piece on any coffee lover’s shelf.

On the other hand, the Hario V60, a product from a Japanese glass and ceramic manufacturer, is named after the 60-degree angle of its dripper. This design controls the water flow rate, preventing over-extraction. The V60 comes in various shapes and sizes and, when paired with a gooseneck kettle, allows for a precise pour-over experience. Many coffee enthusiasts and professionals prefer the V60, especially when showcasing their beans or experimenting with different grind sizes.

Now, how do these two compare head-to-head? Let’s break it down. Both use the drip extraction method, relying on gravity and technique. The Chemex, with its borosilicate glass, is heat-resistant and doesn’t impart unwanted flavors. The V60’s design works perfectly with gravity to maximize flavor extraction. Winner: Hario V60, for its precision in brewing.

When it comes to brew time, Chemex takes about 3-5 minutes, but getting the grind size right is tricky. Too coarse, and your coffee is under-extracted; too fine, and it’s over-extracted. The V60, with an average brew time of 3 minutes, offers more consistency once you’ve mastered the technique. Winner: Hario V60, for its efficiency.

Ease of brewing can be a deciding factor for many. For the Chemex, the challenge lies in the initial setup—folding the filter correctly, rinsing it to remove the paper taste, and nailing the right grind size. For the V60, the pouring technique is crucial. Winner: Chemex, for being more forgiving to beginners.

Portability is another consideration. The Chemex, although elegant, is fragile and cumbersome, making it less ideal for travel. The V60, with its compact size and various durable materials, is perfect for on-the-go brewing. Winner: Hario V60.

Cleaning both coffee makers involves tossing the used filter and rinsing the equipment. However, the Chemex’s larger size and delicate build can make it more challenging. The V60, being smaller and more robust, is easier to handle. Winner: Hario V60.

Grind size is another critical factor. The Chemex requires a finer grind to balance its wide filter opening, whereas the V60 is more straightforward with a medium-fine grind. Winner: Hario V60, for its simplicity.

Finally, taste. The Chemex offers a clean, light, and crisp coffee, thanks to its quality filters and design. The V60, with its smaller brewing capacity, allows for more control and experimentation, leading to a richer taste experience. Winner: Hario V60.

Overall, while the Chemex has its merits, the Hario V60 takes the crown in this showdown. It’s more precise, portable, easier to clean, and delivers a consistently great taste. For those looking to dive deep into the world of pour-over coffee, the V60 is the way to go.

In the end, the Hario V60 stands out as the superior pour-over method. It offers precision, portability, ease of cleaning, and a richer taste experience. Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned coffee enthusiast, the V60 promises a rewarding brewing journey.