Buying Guide for the Best French Presses
Choosing a French press is more than just picking the prettiest one—you want a tool that matches how much coffee you make, how and where you use it, and what kind of drinking experience you want. It's important to understand the details, since the right French press will help you brew delicious, full-bodied coffee easily and consistently. Think about how many people you'll serve, how much maintenance you want to do, and how portable your press needs to be. Now, let's explore the key specifications you'll notice while shopping, and how to find what works best for your needs.CapacityCapacity refers to how much coffee your French press can brew in a single use, usually measured in ounces or milliliters. This is important because it affects whether you can make just a cup for yourself or enough for a group. Small French presses (12–17 ounces) are ideal for one person or travel. Medium sizes (24–34 ounces) suit couples or small households, while large ones (over 34 ounces) are perfect for entertaining guests or bigger groups. Consider how many people you typically brew for: if it’s just you, a small size keeps things efficient, but for families or gatherings, get a larger one.
MaterialThe body of a French press can be made from glass, stainless steel, or plastic. Glass presses offer a classic look and let you watch the brewing process, but they're fragile. Stainless steel is durable, often retains heat better, and is good for travel or clumsy hands. Plastic presses are lightweight and unbreakable but may take on odors or discolor over time. Choose based on where you'll use it—home only, take it on the go, or use outdoors—and whether you prioritize style, durability, or insulation.
Filter QualityThe filter, usually a fine mesh, keeps coffee grounds out of your cup. This is essential for a smooth, grit-free drink. Simpler presses may have a single mesh, which is common and works well for most people. Higher-end models may use double or triple filters, further reducing grounds in your cup. If you dislike finding stray coffee grounds, or if you use very fine coffee, a better-quality filter is worthwhile. For those who don’t mind a bit of grit, a standard mesh filter works fine.
InsulationSome French presses have insulation—double-walled designs that keep coffee hot for longer, while single-walled models cool down faster. If you sip coffee slowly or like to linger with your cup, look for an insulated press. If you tend to drink your coffee right after brewing, insulation matters less.
Ease of CleaningFrench presses can have simple designs or intricate ones with lots of parts. A simpler one is typically easier to disassemble and clean, often even dishwasher safe. More complex models can have parts that trap grounds or oils, needing more effort to scrub. If daily hassle bothers you, choose a straightforward, easy-to-clean French press.
PortabilityIf you plan to travel, camp, or tote your French press to work or on adventures, look for one that's compact, sturdy, and possibly shatterproof. Presses made from stainless steel or BPA-free plastic generally fare better on the road than delicate glass models.