The Chemex and V60 are two popular pour-over coffee brewing options, each with its own set of characteristics and merits. As with most coffee equipment, the decision should be driven by the coffee varietal you are working rather than anything else. Here’s a comparison of the two so you can see what I mean:
Chemex:
1. Design and Material:
The Chemex has a unique hourglass shape and is made of borosilicate glass.
The design is aesthetically pleasing and is often considered a work of art.
2. Filter:
Chemex uses a thicker, bonded paper filter that removes more oils and sediment, resulting in a clean cup of coffee.
3. Brewing Time:
The Chemex typically has a longer brewing time due to the thicker filter, which allows for a slower extraction.
4. Capacity:
Available in various sizes, including larger ones suitable for brewing multiple cups at once.
5. Ease of Use:
Chemex brewing can be forgiving, making it suitable for beginners.
The pouring technique is less critical due to the slower extraction process.
6. Flavor Profile:
The Chemex often produces a clean cup with a bright and crisp flavor.
The Chemex Filter Carafe
You would be hard pressed to find a sexier table element. Filter, discard, and a fine brew is ready to pour. Wow your table guest. Click through to see the options available
V60:
1. Design and Material:
The name “V60” references the 60° angle of the filter funnel. This, coupled with the spiral grooves in the funnel itself are deemed to be optimal for guiding and controlling the flow of brewed liquid into the receiving pot or cup below.
The cone-shaped V60 is commonly made of ceramic, glass, plastic, or metal.
As mentioned, its design allows for a faster brewing process.
2. Filter:
V60 uses a thinner paper or metal filter, allowing more oils and fines to pass through and contributing to a fuller-bodied cup.
3. Brewing Time:
The V60 typically has a shorter brewing time compared to the Chemex.
4. Capacity:
Available in various sizes, suitable for single-cup brewing.
5. Ease of Use:
V60 brewing can be more challenging for beginners, as the pour rate and technique play a crucial role in the final cup.
6. Flavor Profile:
The V60 can produce a cup with a more nuanced and complex flavor due to the faster extraction and the presence of oils.
The Hario V60 Filtering System
Activate the mesmerising swirl of the V60 filtering funnel. Easily transportable and adapted to various serving vessels from a single cup to a group carafe. Click through to see the options available
A NOTE ON FILTERING: While this will be seen as sacrilege by devotees to either system, it is entirely up to you what filtering medium you choose. A lot of thought and engineering went into the proprietary filters, but as much effect comes from the pouring as it does the filtering. You may find a better way…for you. Just saying.
Pour Over Magic
As any self-respecting pour-over aficionado will atest, a quality gooseneck kettle is a must-have (The Cosori programmable electric shown here). Click through to see the many options available to you.
In Summary:
Chemex: Known for its clean and bright cups, forgiving for beginners, suitable for brewing larger volumes, and has an iconic design.
V60: Offers a more hands-on brewing experience, allows for more control over the extraction process, and can produce a more complex and nuanced flavor profile.
Ultimately, the choice between Chemex and V60 depends on personal preferences, brewing experience, and the desired flavor characteristics in your coffee. Some coffee enthusiasts may even enjoy having both methods on hand for different occasions. It is certainly worth trying both
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P. Rafn Hansen is the Senior Editor and Creative Director for Bean Indigo. Of the various honchos, he is said to be the head. A veteran coffee lover, he gets your passion!
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