When it comes to affordable and beginner-friendly coffee gear, the AeroPress and French Press are two of the most popular choices. Both make excellent coffee, but they deliver very different results in taste, texture, and convenience. In this guide, we’ll compare AeroPress vs French Press so you can decide which is best for your home brewing setup.
Quick Comparison Table
| Feature | AeroPress | French Press |
|---|---|---|
| Taste | Clean, bright, low bitterness | Bold, rich, full-bodied |
| Brew Time | 1–2 minutes | 4 minutes |
| Ease of Use | Quick cleanup, portable | Very simple, but messy cleanup |
| Grind Size | Medium-fine | Medium-coarse |
| Price | ~£30 | ~£20 |
| Best For | Travelers, clean cup lovers | Beginners, bold flavor fans |
Why Choose AeroPress?
- Produces a clean, smooth cup with low bitterness.
- Very portable—perfect for travel or office use.
- Quick brew time (under 2 minutes).
- Easy cleanup (just pop out the puck).
Example Recipe (Inverted Method)
- Coffee: 16 g (medium-fine grind)
- Water: 200 ml at 92–94°C
- Steep 1:30 → flip → 30-second press.
Why Choose French Press?
- Produces rich, full-bodied coffee with natural oils.
- Great for making multiple cups at once.
- Simple design—no filters needed beyond the plunger.
Example Recipe
- Coffee: 30 g (medium-coarse grind)
- Water: 500 ml at 94°C
- Steep 4 minutes → gentle plunge.
Which Is Right for You?
- Choose AeroPress if you want portability, easy cleanup, and cleaner flavors.
- Choose French Press if you enjoy bold coffee, brew for 2–3 people, or want a simple all-in-one solution.
Final Thoughts
Both brewers are affordable and beginner-friendly. Many coffee lovers eventually own both because they serve different moods and occasions. If you’re starting fresh, think about whether you value clarity and speed (AeroPress) or richness and simplicity (French Press).
