Coffee flavors really stand out with a French press. Meaning the flavors really pop and it will be more full bodied than your typical drip coffee maker.
This article discusses the 2 best French Presses.
If you’re interested in learning how to make the best French Press coffee then click here to jump down to our guide.
The Best French Press
Bodum Java is the Best French Press
Compact, looks great, made of great materials and doesn’t break the bank.
Pros
- Small + Lightweight
- Easy to clean
- Affordable
- Durable (Most of them)
- Quiet
Cons
- Takes some attention
- Takes time to brew
- Most leave a little coffee residue or grit in cup
Bodum French Press
There are tons of French presses out there. We narrowed down the choice to just a couple. The best French Press is made by Bodum, a leader in all things coffee. The best best French press doesnt have to break the bank either. They are both affordable at less than $30. Pretty cheap compared to many others.
Bodum Java
Our favorite french press coffee maker is Bodum Java Press because of the pretty design & ease of use.
This stainless steel Bodum coffee maker looks great on the kitchen counter.
This stainless steel Bodum coffee maker looks pretty good on the kitchen counter.
Bodum Travel French Press
Another one that may suit many people’s needs if you’re on the go.
Brew the coffee and take the whole thing with you. This one claims to keep it warm for hours thanks the double wall insulation.
Less dishes since you drink right out of the carafe.
Click here if you’re looking for the best portable coffee maker.
French Press Grind Size
French press grind size should be the size of sea salt. Keep in mind that the coffee is immersed in the water. Which different than a drip coffee maker where it filters through. That’s why courser coffee is best for french press.
Pro Tip: If you’re not sure about the coarseness of the coffee grind you can get an idea while you’re pushing the plunger.
When you press down on the plunger and it’s very easy, meaning there isn’t much resistant, that’s a sign that the grinds are too coarse.
On the flip side, if you press the plunger down and it’s a bit difficult then your grounds are too coarse.
French Press Instructions
- Add in 2 tablespoons of coffee grounds, per cup of water. (2 tablespoons to start, you may prefer more or less.)
- Add hot water ideally between 195-215f. If you don’t have a thermometer, boil water and wait 20 seconds before pouring
- Replace the French Press lid, but do not push the plunger.
- Let it percolate for at least 3-4 minutes.
- Push plunger and pour
Check our review on office coffee makers for offices of all sizes.
French Press Tips
Some French presses have multiple filters, which prevent sediments from entering your cup. Try to find one with a triple filter.
There is also the base of the carafe to consider. Cheaper models pinch the carafe. This makes it difficult to pry open when cleaning it. Try to find one with a carafe that is a non-pliable base. Read the description and look at the product images carefully when determining if it is removable.
Something else to consider is metal French press. Metal keeps coffee warmer longer. An electric French press is ideal if you don’t mind giving up the aesthetics of a traditional French press.
Troubleshooting French Press
If you’ve done all the necessary steps outlined and are still coming up with bad tasting coffee then read below to find a solution
What do the coffee beans look like? Take a handful of beans and take a look. Do you see thin or splintered beans? These are not ideal. They should be whole and thick. For example, Kenya beans are graded. If they receive an AB rating then they are of low quality because they are cracked and or small.
Is the carafe clean? I’m guilty of not cleaning out my French press after every use. However, if you’re not rinsing it out after each use then you’ll get remnants stuck in the filter which throw off future brews. This is especially common with darker roasts because the oil residue sticks to the filter.
If possible, put it in the dishwasher from time to time. If it’s not dishwasher safe then use a gentle brush and avoid using harsh chemicals. Consider using a brush to clean the residue oil from the mesh filter.
How’s the filter holding up? A broken or splintered filter allows sediment to enter your coffee and throws off the quality and taste.
Why is my coffee weak? Grind is too coarse. Grind a tad bit finer. The goal is medium-large coarsely grinded beans. Visit your local coffee shop and let them know you’re using a French press and they will grind it appropriately.
Why is the coffee too strong or bitter? Probably the beans. Bitter notes coming from a French press are usually because of Robusta beans or similar cheap blends. Robusta beans deliver a bitter flavor, which is desirable for many. Arabica beans are the way to go if you don’t like bitter coffee from a French press.
If your coffee is too strong then your grind is too fine. Take a look at the bottom of the French press when finishing. Is it a muddy sludge that shows no signs of the original coffee ground coffee? Then you’re probably grinding too fine.
Another culprit of strong coffee from a French press is steeping too long at a high temperature.
