If you’re ready to ditch cheap plastics in your kitchen, upgrading to a non-toxic coffee maker is a great place to start. The AeroPress has long been a favorite among coffee and health enthusiasts (including renowned neuroscientist and podcaster Dr. Andrew Huberman). While it has always been BPA-free, the AeroPress has now been reimagined with luxurious, plastic-free materials in the form of the AeroPress Premium.

I spent a month testing this new and improved version, admiring its handmade double-walled borosilicate glass, stainless steel, and anodized aluminum design. Not only is it exceptionally well-crafted and a non-toxic coffee maker, but it also brews some of the smoothest, most full-bodied coffee I’ve ever tasted.

That said, with its high price tag, this isn’t a gadget for everyone. The AeroPress Premium is as much a statement piece as it is a coffee maker – ideal for those who are willing to invest in both style and health. If you’re looking to learn about all the pros and cons, this Aeropress Premium review is for you.

Specifications

First Impressions

Unboxing felt like opening a premium gift, thanks to the thoughtfully designed packaging. My first thought was: this would make a great present for the coffee lovers in my life.

Inside the box, the AeroPress Premium certainly lived up to its name in terms of aesthetics. The glass and stainless steel components look sleek and elegant; I was expecting them to feel fragile but they are actually sturdy and strong. The Premium upgrade also comes with a weighty, stainless steel stirrer and scoop – engraved with the brand logo. They feel like ultra-professional tools.

Setting up was refreshingly simple. With clear illustrations and straightforward instructions, I was brewing my first cup in minutes. There are also video tutorials on the website, if you need more guidance. Unlike some coffee gadgets that feel like they require a degree in engineering, the AeroPress Premium’s design prioritizes functionality and ease of use.

What's it like to use?

Once you learn the technique, it's incredibly easy. I've found it to be a calming morning ritual and it's so simple, you can do it basically half asleep.

Start by boiling a kettle, or heating water to 185°F (85°C) if you have a temperature-controlled kettle. Line the filter cap with filter paper and twist the glass chamber on top (it locks in and it's really satisfying). Place on top of a sturdy mug and add one scoop of ground coffee into the chamber. Pour hot water into the chamber to your required strength (there are numbers to guide you). Stir gently for 3 seconds using the stainless steel stirrer, then insert the plunger a half-inch into the chamber. Wait 60 seconds, then press the plunger down gently until you hear a hiss, signaling the brew is complete and your hot coffee is ready.

It’s also incredibly quick. I timed it to be less than three minutes from start to finish, including the time it took to boil the kettle. The included stainless steel filter cap, scoop, and stirrer (all plastic-free!) are very nice to use. The absence of plastic offers peace of mind for those concerned about microplastics and toxins, particularly when using hot water.

Taste test

From espresso shots to smooth americanos, the coffee was exceptional. Every brew is rich, full-bodied, and free from the bitterness that can plague other methods. I love how the filter paper catches the oils; you're left with a very refined, smooth taste.

Clean-up, storage & maintenance

One of the standout features of the AeroPress Premium is how simple it is to clean. After brewing, a quick rinse under cold water cools the stainless steel filter, and popping out the coffee puck is a breeze. A rinse and air dry are all that’s needed to have it ready for your next cup.

AeroPress recommend cleaning the gadget with 'lukewarm water, gentle soap, and a gentle cloth every week to preserve the life of your AeroPress Premium.'

In terms of storage, I found it can look slightly out of place without a dedicated organizer or coffee station. Right now, I have it on low a shelf next to my kettle and I keep the tools in my cutlery drawer. I'm tempted by the AeroPress stainless steel stand, as I have a small city apartment and I try to avoid clutter.

How does it compare?

Compared to the AeroPress Original (pictured above on the right), the Aeropress Premium is taller, weightier, and expertly crafted. It doesn't use any plastic whatsoever. It's also much more expensive. I found no real difference in the taste, but I did find that the double-walled glass kept my coffee slightly warmer.

If you're new to AeroPress and want to try the brand for just $30, the Original is a great choice. It's still BPA-free and FDA and EU-approved for contact. I also recommend the Original to anyone who wants a coffee maker to take traveling or to the office – the Premium is a bit too heavy for that.

If you want to eliminate all plastic in your kitchen and you're willing to pay for a luxurious upgrade, you won't regret the AeroPress Premium. It's beautiful, elegant, and designed to last.

Another direct comparison would be the more traditional Bodum Chambord French press. It is one of the most beautiful coffee makers, and in my opinion, is pretty enough for a permanent place on your countertops. Bodum as a brand utilizes entirely natural products, incorporating ethically sourced glass, steel, wood, and bamboo into their pieces. It produces an incredibly rich and silky cup of coffee. It's cheaper, but more fragile, slower and trickier to clean than the Aeropress premium – if speed and ease are at the top of your priority list. You can find out more in my Bodum Chambord review.

Who would it suit?

People who love functionality over fuss. If you love great coffee but dislike the mess and complexity of other methods, this is your match. It’s also a fantastic option for anyone looking to phase out plastic from their kitchen; every part of the AeroPress Premium (including the stirrer and scoop) is crafted from health-conscious materials, like glass and stainless steel. If you value craftsmanship, you'll enjoy the look and feel of this coffee maker. It's lovely to use and handle.

What I loved:

• Delicious coffee: Smooth, rich, and free from grit.
• Quick: Ready in under three minutes.
• Health-conscious design: Handmade glass and stainless steel. Plastic-free and perfect for hot brewing.
• Easy to use and clean: No fuss, no mess, and simple to clean.
• Reliability: I've used it daily for a month, without a hitch.

What I didn't like:

• Cost: It’s significantly more expensive than the AeroPress Original. For the price, I'd like to have seen a steel filter included, so you can save on buying paper filters.
• Capacity: If you’re brewing for more than one, you may need a larger French press.
• Station clutter: While beautiful, it can look slightly out of place without a dedicated organizer, caddy or the AeroPress stainless steel stand.
• Heavy: This is fine for home use, but you can't really travel with it, like the plastic version.
• No frothy coffee: If you don't own a separate milk frother, you can't make a creamy latte or cappuccino. If you're spending upwards of $100 on a coffee maker, you might want more versatility.

What do the customer reviews say?

They love how sturdy and industrial the Aeropress Premium is. Like me, they were surprised by the weight and thickness of the glass and metal, which makes it feel very high quality.

One reviewer said: 'It makes the same great coffee, and you can feel a little more secure knowing that you've eliminated one potential source of microplastics from your life.'

Other reviewers felt that it's a bit expensive compared to the original, which they know and love. They wish it came with a steel filter and a funnel for smaller-mouthed mugs.

Should you buy it?

The AeroPress Premium is a beautiful, well-crafted upgrade for anyone seeking an elegant, non-toxic coffee maker. I have knocked it down from 5-stars due to the high price and lack of versatility. While it may not be for those on a budget or those who want to create a variety of special drinks, it’s a great choice for anyone who values simplicity, functionality, premium craftsmanship – of course, delicious americano or espresso.

How we test

At Homes & Gardens, we have a rigorous testing process for all of our coffee makers. This enables us to score coffee makers both individually and against other models on the market.

We start with our research. As H&G’s kitchen appliance expert, I’m always on the lookout for the best coffee makers on the market. Once I’ve found one that I think you, our readers, will like, I order it to my home kitchen. I like to test at home, as it means I can use the appliance in my regular routine for around a month. This helps me uncover advantages (or most likely, pain points) I would never discover with a one hour session in the test kitchen.

Once I have the coffee maker in my hands, I’ll get testing. The first thing I make with any espresso machine is an espresso. This is a way of testing how good a coffee maker is at the basics. A good espresso should be between 1.25-2 oz. It should be 190-205 degrees and full of flavor. A big giveaway is the crema on top: that should be thick with a hazelnut hue.

Then, I'll test other brews: including americano, latte, cappuccino and anything else the coffee maker has to offer. After brewing and tasting, I make notes on the clean-up process as well as how I would recommend storing and maintaining the coffee maker.

After a month of testing and evaluating, I round up my notes. Then, I take a look at all of our other coffee makers to see how they compare. I also look at online reviews to see what other experts and real-life customers thought, so that I could bring you more insight.

If you’re interested and want to find out more, you can read all about the process in our how we test coffee makers page.

As a latte obsessive, I never thought I'd find myself moving away from my automatic coffee machine. I own a sleek, $900 machine by De'Longhi, which creates café-quality lattes at the push of a button. For ages, my mornings started with a perfect, vanilla soy latte.

But during a recent doctor’s appointment, I received a wake-up call. I’ve been navigating hormonal imbalances, and my doctor advised that soy milk might not be the best choice for my health. My body would benefit more from cutting it out or choosing organic full-fat dairy instead (but I don't like the taste).

This prompted me to reevaluate my coffee routine. I have to admit, I was also getting tired of cleaning my automatic machine anyway – it needs descaling every month and filling with endless, expensive coffee beans. After looking into hormone disruptors, I decided I wanted a new, non-toxic coffee maker that could make good americano.

With all things considered, here's what I'm using instead.

The Aeropress

I'm a kitchen shopping editor, and this weekend I've been covering the best Black Friday & Cyber Monday coffee maker deals that have been tested and approved by our resident barista.

That's where I found this Aeropress Cyber Monday deal for just $29. Praised its ability to brew rich, smooth coffee with minimal effort, it seemed too simple compared to my fancy machine, but simplicity was exactly what I needed.

As soon as it arrived in the post, I loved the red box – I took a picture below. It's almost like a Christmas cracker, unfolding beautifully to reveal what's inside. I think it could be a lovely gift, if you're shopping for loved ones on Cyber Monday.

Why I prefer it

• Delicious americano: The Aeropress brews the smoothest, most flavorful Americanos I’ve ever tasted. The paper filter catches the oils, resulting in a rich, aromatic cup that's better than my automatic coffee machine.
• Easy to clean: Every morning, my partner turns to me as he's washing up in the sink and says: 'This thing is so easy to clean.' It's got me feeling pretty smug about my purchase. We simply pop out the coffee puck and give it a quick rinse. No descaling, dirty milk containers or coffee grinds spilling everywhere.
• Simple to use: One of the reasons I loved my automatic machine was the ease; I barely had to turn my brain on to use it. Once you get the hang of it, the Aeropress is equally easy.
• Non-toxic materials: One of the biggest selling points for me was the fact that the Aeropress is made from BPA-free plastic. As someone who’s cautious about endocrine disruptors, this was a huge relief. Many high-end coffee machines are vague about the materials they use, but Aeropress is transparent. They say: 'All materials used in AeroPress coffee makers are free of BPA and phthalates, and are FDA and EU approved for use in contact with food.'
• Portable design: I only have one coffee a day in the morning now, but my partner travels for work. He could pop this in his luggage, along with the filters and ground coffee pouches to enjoy rich americanos.

December deals

Final thoughts

Switching from a $900 coffee machine to a $29 Aeropress might seem like a drastic downgrade, but for me, it’s been an upgrade in every way that matters. It's easier to clean, just as simple to use, and I know I'm making good choices for my health.

If you want to read more about non-toxic coffee machines, we've written a guide here – as well our full review of the Aeropress Original.

AeroPress has a lot of well-deserved praise online. The brand produces portable coffee makers that deliver on delicious, specialty coffee flavors. You'll know their Original model and will probably have also seen pictures of the XL and the Go. Now, they've released something a little more eye-catching.

AeroPress has launched five new colors of their Clear coffee maker range. You can now choose between green, purple, black, blue, and red. These have the same credentials as the original Clear model (which I think is one of the best coffee makers on the market) but with a splash of color thrown in too.

Last time AeroPress launched a colorful pink version of their iconic coffee maker, it sold out almost immediately. I've got all the details of these beautiful coffee makers, as well as some tips on how to use your AeroPress and the globally recognized Ultimate AeroPress recipe. Here's everything you need to know.

What are the different colored AeroPresses and why have they launched them?

If you're an AeroPress fan, you might remember the AeroPress clear pink, which sold out before even I could get my hands on one. As a result of popular demand, the brand has now released a range of color options. There's more to their choices than you might think.

'This is the first time AeroPress has released a full lineup of colors, giving coffee lovers the ability to add a little style to their kitchen or travels,' said David Cole, AeroPress CMO. 'With gifting season for moms, dads and grads in full swing, AeroPress Clear Colors arrive just in time for that perfect, thoughtful gift.'

The team recommends matching your AeroPress with the kinds of coffee you drink. If you are on the charcoal coffee hype, opt for the clear black. If you like a morning matcha, the green AeroPress is a great choice. 

'In a sea of sameness, AeroPress Clear Colors, made of crystal-clear, shatterproof Tritan™, deliver on the brand's commitment to providing functional yet stylish solutions," said AeroPress CEO Gerard Meyer. "Our coffee makers have a passionate fanbase; the sleek design and colors are unlike anything they've previously seen and will allow them to proudly collect and display them at home or on the go.'

Where can I get one?

You can pick up one of the AeroPress Clear Colors for $49.95 on AeroPress' website. Keep an eye on Amazon too, since these will be launching on there in the next few months. I'll update you when I see them appear on there.

What did we think of the AeroPress clear?

The beauty of these colorful coffee makers still boasting some transparency is that you can still see your coffee grounds and crema. You can keep an eye on your coffee brewing, checking on its progress, making sure that you're pressing your coffee grounds correctly.

I recently tested the clear version of these colorful models and gave it my barista's seal of approval. The smart design delivers specialty flavors at the press of a cylinder. I use mine every single day, even in preference to my espresso machine, because I don't wake the whole house up early in the morning and I can still enjoy delicious flavors.

The clear boasts a 3-in-1 patented design, which makes delicious coffee on the go. It's easy to use and clean up, so I love it as part of my busy lifestyle.

If you want more of my thoughts, you can read my full AeroPress review here.

FAQs

What's the difference between all the AeroPresses?

Each AeroPress coffee maker is designed to suit a different coffee drinker. Here's a quick guide to them all:

AeroPress Original: sometimes, you can't beat the original model. This is the classic AeroPress that earned them their name. Functionally, it's almost the same as the Clear, except that the Clear is made from Tritan, a shatterproof material. You can also watch your coffee brew in the Clear.

AeroPress XL: if the whole house is enjoying AeroPress coffee, this is perfect. You get double the capacity (8 cups) with the same delicious flavors. Per cup, it's great value too.

AeroPress Go: a more compact option, the go is perfect for travelers who need minimal space and maximal taste. You get a microwaveable mug and lid that doubles up as a traveling case. 

AeroPress Clear: this is the brand's best-seller (and the one that's available in a range of colors). It has enough capacity for four cups of coffee.

What kind of coffee does an AeroPress make?

You can make a range of coffees in your AeroPress. I use mine to make espresso-style shots, but plenty of people make Americano, cold brews, and even lattes (you'll need a milk frother for that though).

The globally famous 'Ultimate AeroPress recipe', written by James Hoffman, winner of the 2007 World Barista Championship is a must-try if you own an AeroPress. It's simple, easy to follow, and guarantees you a delicious coffee, but could it be better?

Whilst we were testing different methods for how to use an AeroPress, we couldn't help experimenting. With some extra saturation and different grinds, I bettered the Ultimate AeroPress recipe to make the ultimate, Ultimate AeroPress recipe.

After months of testing, refining, sipping, and savoring, we've reached total perfection. If you want to impress your friends with your AeroPress, here's everything you need to know.

The Ultimate AeroPress Recipe, according to a barista

Before we dive deep into the details, you probably want to know what James Hoffman's Ultimate AeroPress recipe looks like. It's simple and flexible. It's designed to make a reliably fantastic coffee every time, setting you up for success.' James recommends experimenting from the skeleton of his recipe though. Here it is:

Use eleven grams of coffee, which is lightly roasted and ground at the finer end of medium. Use your AeroPress in an upright position, with a paper filter. Pour 200 ml of water at 210°F. Let your coffee brew for two minutes and then press gently down. It really is that simple, but here are the details you'll want to know to make it extra perfect.

The Ultimate AeroPress recipe and method

Before you get brewing with the ultimate AeroPress recipe, you'll need to prep a few things.

First, you'll need to have medium ground coffee. The grind size that you opt for ultimately depends upon which beans you use. In James Hoffman's recipe, he uses lightly roasted coffee beans 'for quite a strong cup of coffee at a lower ratio.' I like to use a medium roast, Union's Natural Spirit is my bean of choice, and you can go even darker. If you do this, just grind your beans a little more coarsely and use fewer per liter, something closer to 60 grams will give you the most delicious results.

You'll also need coffee scales and, ideally a gooseneck kettle. A normal kettle will do a reasonable job, but if you're aiming for perfection, you'll get a more precise pour and even saturation with something like the Fellow Stagg (which also happens to be Oprah's favorite kettle).

Once all your coffee kit is set up, you can get brewing. James Hoffman's Ultimate AeroPress recipe starts by placing the paper filter in the cap. James doesn't rinse his filter or make use of the metal filter, which is fine if you want a smooth cup. As someone who likes a super smooth cup of coffee, I'd recommend using both the paper and metal filter. Also, even though James doesn't rinse his filter paper, I recommend that you wet it first. This will prevent your paper from absorbing any of the delicious coffee oils, ensuring that all of the flavors end up in your cup.

Place the AeroPress on top of your cup or brewing chamber. James says 'Make sure it's sturdy because you're going to be pressing on it in a second.' I brew directly into my cup, since I like to drink coffee as soon as it's brewed. You'll get the freshest, fullest flavors that way.

Add 11 grams of coffee to start with, as James recommends. You can adjust quantities as you get used to which flavors you like.

Next, boil your water. James says 'With lighter roasts, you can go all the way up to boiling. For darker or medium roasts, drop the temperature. For a really dark roast, I'd be brewing even under 90 degrees, maybe even down at 80.' That's why a temperature-controlled kettle is really useful.

I'd recommend filtering your water before you boil it. This is a somewhat controversial point, since plenty of people say that the minerals enhance the flavors of your coffee. However, you can't rely on consistent quantities of minerals in your water, so make sure to invest in a filter pitcher (here are our suggestions for the best) or filter tap so that you can rely on repeatable coffee flavors.

Sitting your container and AeroPress on some coffee scales, start a timer. James adds all of his water at once, but I'd recommend pouring 50 ml over your grounds, inserting the plunger and then pulling up a little to create a vacuum, stopping the water from filtering through into your cup. Your coffee will be blooming here, letting all the carbon dioxide out of your coffee, making it taste sweeter and smoother.

After thirty seconds, you can take the plunger out and add the remaining 150 ml, again putting the plunger in and pulling up a little. The key to both pours, according to Hoffman is to 'try and get the grounds wet as quickly as possible by pouring into the middle of the AeroPress.' If you have a gooseneck kettle, you can do a spiral, covering every cluster of grounds.

James waits two minutes for his to brew. He does a very gentle swirl holding the AeroPress and base of the coffee. This is an unmissable step. He says, 'When you're swirling, you're not trying to create a vortex in there. You're just trying to gently knock the ground coffee that's formed a crust down so that it starts to sink to the bottom. Wait twenty seconds and then start to press.'

James says to be gentle and not to lean into your press. Steadily push down and you'll see your coffee drip through. Once you've finished pressing, pull up a little bit to stop your AeroPress from dripping.

What does James Hoffman use in his coffee station set-up?

We all want to know what the experts use and, turns out, James Hoffman has exceptional taste. Here's his kettle, coffee scales, and AeroPress. These are some of the more expensive options, but, having tested them, I can say that they're worth every penny.

What if your coffee isn't perfect?

This should be a failsafe way to make a delicious cup of coffee, so if it tastes sour, bitter, or acidic, there are a few things you should check. James explains 'Any bad flavors are going to be the grind size and maybe the temperature.' You'll want to tweak these on a few accounts. 

'If you've got too much bitterness in your cup, chances are you might have ground a bit fine or brewed a bit hot for your coffee.' He also recommends doing the opposite if you've got a bit of sourness in your cup. Feel free to get to maximum temperature and try grinding a bit finer. Your coffee should be perfect after that.

FAQs

Do I need smart coffee scales to make coffee?

In James Hoffman's video on smart coffee scales, he concludes that the average coffee enthusiast probably doesn't need all the details and controls that smart coffee scales would. You can get by with simple scales. However, if you want to get techy, these are some of the best on the market.

• Brewista ratio: probably the best smart scales you can buy
• Pearl Model S: enough technical capacity for professionals, but the price tag says the same
• OXO Brew: reasonably priced and simple with a useful timer setting too
• Fellow Tally: expensive, but accurate, precise, and automatic

How should I be using my AeroPress?

There are two main different ways to use an AeroPress, both of which I've covered in my article on how to use an AeroPress. 

The iconic AeroPress is so simple that most people skip the instructions, never learning how to use an AeroPress as they're intended. Without the proper information, you can slip into bad habits or, even worse, not make any habits at all. 

I'm a firm believer that you can't get creative with coffee until you've nailed the basics. AeroPresses might look like French presses, but they're very different (I've covered AeroPress vs French press debate in detail). That's why I wanted to give you all the AeroPress information you need to get started.

I spoke with baristas and coffee enthusiasts to write down the official way to use an AeroPress. However, as a barista and a bit of a coffee geek, I'm all for experimenting. In fact, I actually prefer brewing coffee using the 'inverted' AeroPress method (more on that later), so I've got some expert tips and tricks for how to have some fun with your AeroPress as well as some common mistakes that people make.

How to use an AeroPress with the classic method

You'll have heard a lot of talk about the different AeroPress methods, but I want to start with how to use an AeroPress following the classic, or standard method, which is issued by the brand themselves. Kayla Stavridis, a former barista and coffee expert, is my go-to as soon as I want to talk about coffee. When I asked her how to use an AeroPress knew the classic method by memory.

Kalya says 'When you're making the perfect AeroPress brew, it all starts with the grind. I've found that a grind slightly finer than sea salt works best, providing the ideal balance of flavor extraction without risking over-extraction.'

Once you've ground your coffee, AeroPress recommends starting with 17 grams of coffee grounds, and all the baristas that I spoke with agreed. This is a good place to start and then you can experiment when you're more confident.

The next step in the standard method requires you to put a paper filter in the basket and rinse it with hot water. Wetting the paper means that it won't absorb as many of your delicious coffee oils, giving you a fuller and more flavorful cup of coffee.

Then, add the coffee grounds into the AeroPress chamber, followed by hot water at 175°F-185°F. Kayla says to 'fill to the desired level, give the mixture a quick stir and then let it steep for about one minute'. This lets your coffee infuse and bloom, getting rid of any acidic CO2 that might be in your mix.

Once your minute is up, attach the filter cup and press down gently. That's all there is to it.

How to use an AeroPress with the inverted method

The Inverted Method, also known as James Hoffmann's Ultimate Method, for making in the French press is a bit of a cheat – and I love it. I'm not alone either, editor of Coffee Grind Guru, Ruud van Loo has spent seven years exploring coffee and this is his go-to.

Ruud says 'on days when I'm feeling a bit more adventurous and I want to extract more flavors from my coffee grounds, I use the inverted method. All you need to do is flip the AeroPress upside down and add the coffee grounds and water. Then, attach the filter cap without plunging.' 

By allowing the coffee to steep upside down Rudd believes 'it enhances the extraction process, resulting in a richer and more intense flavor profile.' Van Loo encourages coffee enthusiasts not to stop there though, 'experiment with different steeping times and ratios to find the flavors that suit you the best. It's a lot of fun and will quickly become an obsession, trust me.'

How to use an AeroPress to make cold brew

Cold brew is all the craze in the coffee world. It's a smoother, sweeter drink that still packs a caffeine punch and, normally, you'd have to wait 18 hours to enjoy one of these. However, if you have an AeroPress, you can emulate cold brew flavors in a matter of minutes.

James Roche, co-founder of Wrexham Bean Co, says 'making cold brew in my AeroPress is one of my daily delights. You'll need to ditch the hot water entirely though. Here's what I do:

I grind my coffee beans as coarsely as sea salt, I've found that this is the best grind for extraction. Then, I add my grounds directly to the AeroPress chamber,' James notes here that he uses a metal filter because it works better, but the paper filter works fine too.

'Then, fill the chamber with cold water just above the coffee grounds and give it a gentle stir,' James pauses and then emphasizes, 'here is when you need to be patient. Place the plunger on top and don't press down. Steep it in the fridge for 2-4 hours depending on how strong you want yours to be. Once steeped, slowly press down slowly and steadily until you reach the bottom. Then, you've made your concentrate, so you can dilute it with water or milk and enjoy it over ice.'

Tips and tricks

AeroPress owners all tend to be naturally curious about how they can better their brewing skills. This means that there are a lot of tips and tricks out there. These often come to light in the annual AeroPress Championships where, last year, the winner wrapped a cup sleeve (like this from Walmart) around their AeroPress to insulate it. 

Kayla encourages AeroPress owners to take inspiration from the championships and experiment. She says 'don't be afraid to play around with coffee-to-water ratios to find the perfect balance for your taste buds. Using a timer can also make a world of difference, ensuring consistency in your brews with each cup you make.' The timer will also ensure that you're more consistent across your different cups of coffee, so if you make the perfect one, you'll easily recreate it.

Kayla added one final note. 'Cleanliness is next to godliness,' she says, 'promptly cleaning your AeroPress after each use ensures that your next brew isn't tainted by old coffee oils, preserving the purity of flavor in every cup.' You heard it here. 

Common mistakes

Whilst it's great to know how to use an AeroPress properly, if your coffee isn't tasting quite right, it might be because you're unconsciously misstepping. Kayla said that 'some common pitfalls can easily be avoided with a little attention to detail. Ignoring the grind size is a big one; investing in a quality burr grinder can make all the difference in achieving a consistent grind suitable for AeroPress brewing.' If you don't already own one, I've tested the Fellow Ode burr grinder which you can pick up on Amazon. It's incredible and super stylish too.

The AeroPress site emphasizes a gentle and slow technique when pressing your coffee. Applying too much force can result in a bitter taste or, worse, a messy spillage.

FAQs

If you're following the simple steps for how to use an AeroPress and avoiding any common pitfalls you should be able to enjoy a delicious cup of coffee at home and on the go. However, if you still have questions about how to brew the optimal cup, here are some answers.

Should I use a metal or paper filter in my AeroPress?

if you want to make an espresso-style drink, you'll want the metal filter, since this won't absorb the rich and delicious oils. However, if you want a super smooth, clean brew, use the paper filters. 

What's the perfect ratio of water to coffee in an AeroPress?

Some people will say that the golden ratio is 1:16, but really, one of the most fun features of the AeroPress is how versatile it is. I'd encourage you to try different ratios until you find the one that best suits your palette.

Can I use boiling water in my AeroPress?

In theory, you could, but you'll scald your coffee grounds, making your brew taste bitter, sour, or acidic. I'd aim for 195 – 205 degrees Fahrenheit which your kettle will reach about 45 seconds before it boils. The best way to make sure you're reaching the right temperature is by investing in a gooseneck kettle. I love the Fellow Stagg, available at Amazon.

The AeroPress vs French press debate has blown up. Since launching their coffee maker, AeroPress has triggered a battle between modern, American brewing and traditional French techniques. From an outsider's perspective, the two look incredibly similar but they have very different offerings. 

As a barista and a bit of a traditionalist, I love the trademarked, chic European brewing style brandished by French presses. I've recently finished my tests of all the best French presses, so I've been around some seriously nice models over the last few months. And yet, in spite of years of French press commitment, just one morning with the AeroPress had me converted. 

I spoke with another barista and coffee expert, Kayla Stavridis, to find out whether it's just me getting torn between by beloved French press and the brand-new AeroPress. Is this portable, durable, speedy model the best coffee maker on the market?

A quick look at AeroPress vs French press

Before we geek out on the specifics of the AeroPress vs French press debate, I've put together a quick table that walks you through the fundamental differences between the two. It's really useful to have a quick look through if you're not quite sure on the specifics.

In a nutshell, a French press is a traditional way to brew bold, rich, and acidic cups of coffee. You can only make French press coffee (or cold brew if you can wait 18 hours) in one of these, but you can cater to bigger crowds and you all you need to do is add coarse coffee grounds and hot water to a big carafe.

An AeroPress is brilliant if you're often on the go or short on space because it's completely portable. It's made from a BPA-free plastic, called Tritan, which feels surprisingly premium. You can use different sized coffee grounds when brewing, but I'd recommend you start on medium-fine to find your bearings. Once you're comfortable you can also get really techy and creative with the kinds of coffee you make in your AeroPress. In fact, there's a whole community experimenting with different recipes (punnily known as AeroPrecipes). There's even an annual AeroPress championship. It's a whole lifestyle, not just a coffee maker – maybe that's why people love them so much.

How does an AeroPress work?

The AeroPress is a relative baby in the world of coffee makers. It came to market in 2005 and has taken over 60 countries worldwide by a storm. AeroPresses are made by the namesake company. These coffee makers tend to stand around 5.5 inches and weigh around 6.3 oz. The brand makes a few different models, but the most popular is the Original. The Go is great for those who travel a lot and the XL is brilliant if you need some more capacity, but I'll go into a bit more detail on those below.

AeroPresses work in the same way as French presses do. You'll need medium-fine grounds (although once you get used to this style of brewing you can switch it up) and some hot water. Let your coffee grounds immerse in the water, and then, using a paper and a metal filter, you extract a smooth cup of coffee from your AeroPress.

Kayla Stavridis, a former barista and coffee expert, says that 'the one to two minute brewing time for AeroPresses is much shorter compared to a French press, which means that it will taste rich, smoother, and less bitter. It's cleaner too because it doesn't have the oils and sediments that French press coffee is known for.' If you need speedy, smooth coffee, this is for you.

How does a French press work?

The first French press on record goes back to France in 1852. They're still a staple of every Instagrammable Sunday morning snap to this day. The best French presses are simple to use, with good capacity, and they're capable of making some delicious coffee in under five minutes. It depends on who you ask, but some people say that this is the most popular coffee maker in the world. It's certainly the most popular manual brewer. 

Kayla says that 'the perfect French press is brewed by steeping grounds in hot water. Leave them for several minutes before pressing down a plunger to separate the grounds from the liquid coffee. It's a simple but effective process that produces a rich, full-bodied cup with oils and fine particles that contribute to its characteristic texture and taste.'

The average French press stands at 7.5 inches, with an eight-cup capacity, and it will weigh around 17 oz. There are plenty of alternative uses for a French press, from frothing milk to making sangria, so it's a versatile coffee maker. Here are some of my favorites.

How do they compare?

If you've scrolled through the AeroPress vs French press table and read how both work, you'll have spotted that French presses and AeroPresses are based upon very similar fundamentals. However, if you were blindfolded, you'd easily be able to tell the difference between the two. French presses only work with coarsely ground coffee. This passes through a single, or double, stainless steel filter. However, because of the size of these large coffee grounds, the longer extraction, and thinner filters, you'll get a more bitter cup of coffee. Plenty of people actively enjoy this edge to their coffee flavors, but some want something a little lighter.

The paper and metal filters that come with the AeroPress give a smoother, cleaner cup of coffee. Paper is an ongoing cost (and another thing to dispose of), but it's key to making coffee in the AeroPress. The beauty of this method is that the paper and coffee puck are easy to dispose of. Kayla told me that 'the AeroPress wins hands-down in terms of clean up. The puck is  neat and easy to eject directly into the trash and then the rest of the rinse is easy.'

French presses are brilliant for use in the kitchen. They're often made from glass and stainless steel, but that means that they're not very travel-friendly. Lots of people who invest in the AeroPress do so for its sheer size and portability. Stavridis praised the AeroPress for its 'lightweight and durable build. Even if you're not a camper or regular traveler, it's still an easy coffee maker to have around the home.' For some, the premium feel of a French press' glass and metal is unbeatable. However, for more clumsy coffee makers, it's an accident waiting to happen.

Should you get an AeroPress or a French Press?

Sadly, there's no straightforward answer to the AeroPress vs French press debate with a universal statement. The French press is a traditional brewing method, which boasts great capacity, and simple functionality. The AeroPress is quick, slick, and modern.

I used to be a ride-or-die French press enthusiast. As a bit of a traditionalist, I feel like I'm stepping out of character in how much I love the fashionable AeroPress. I'm not alone though. Kayla Stravridis was telling me that it's her daily go-to. She loves hers because it's versatile, quick, and easy to clean. Plus, the flavors are smoother and cleaner. If the experts have been converted, surely it's worth a try?

I’ve lost count of the number of times people have requested an AeroPress review. The brand is so iconic, that they’ve become the namesake of their own brewing method. 

The patented AeroPress technology is a melting pot of French press, single-serve, drip, and moka pot brewing techniques, taking the best parts of all of them. You use high pressures, a fine filter, and a plunger to immerse grounds in coffee. It makes an espresso-style shot to rival some of the best espresso machines and some decent cold brew too.

As a former barista and H&G’s coffee expert, it was inevitable that the AeroPress would land in my kitchen. I used it to brew coffee and as expected, it’s exceptional. I think you'd be hard-pressed (sorry) to find someone who doesn’t like it. 

Specifications

Unboxing

This is not the only reason that I love the AeroPress, but the minimalist packaging certainly makes a good first impression. The hexagonal box is completely recyclable which is great for the environment, but I'd be tempted to hold onto it. Useful insights into how the AeroPress works and brewing tips are printed all over it. It's one of the few times that I've felt that a brand is using the packaging to its full potential.

Once I had taken the AeroPress out of its (very informative) box, I put it on the countertop. It's everything the pictures suggest. The scientific-looking, small coffee maker isn't quite like anything else. I've seen AeroPress's compact design get a lot of love from people who travel a lot and who are short on space at home. As someone who does both of these, I can see its appeal. 

This is made from Tritan, a BPA-free plastic. Whilst these kinds of coffee makers often have noses turned up at them, the AeroPress feels surprisingly durable. It's thick without being heavy, thoughtfully designed, and a real talking point. I have no complaints. 

Who would it suit?

The AeroPress has established itself as the coffee maker of professional, working coffee geeks. I don’t know how they feel about this reputation, but I think this is well-founded. Whether you'll be brewing from the hotel, office, Air BnB, ski lodge, or tent, you'll want the AeroPress with you. 

The dimensions of the AeroPress mean that it’s easy to take in your bag. I'd compare it to a small travel mug or water bottle in terms of how much space it demands. Uber-small designer bags might not quite fit it, but the average handbag, backpack, or briefcase certainly could. 

The AeroPress can make some delicious coffee. You can use room-temperature water if you want a cold brew, but you'll need access to some sort of hot water source if you want hot coffee. So, if you plan on going completely off the grid, make sure to have a solar kettle with you.

What is it like to use?

Given that AeroPresses are one of a kind, you’ll need to familiarise yourself with their unique brewing methods. I’m a visual learner, so watched this video from the coffee expert James Hoffman, but there are instruction leaflets and plenty of guides online. The process isn’t complicated, so once you’ve done it once, you’re set.

The instructions don't tell you to rinse the AeroPress, but I gave mine a quick clean to remove any factory dust. AeroPress sends your coffee maker with a paper filter, but if you want to use a stainless steel filter, you'll need to invest in one of these separately.

The AeroPress instructions give you four different brewing options: American, espresso-style, latte, and cold brew. I wanted to give each of these a fair chance and thorough test, so I thought I'd start with the key to any delicious coffee: espresso.

Test 1: espresso

The espresso test is the first one I put all of our coffee makers through. If it can make an intense and flavorful shot in next to no time with minimal mess, you know you've got a good thing going. I think you'll be pleased with how the AeroPress performed. 

I followed the instructions by the book. This meant removing the plunger, placing the stainless steel filter in the bottom basket, and screwing it on. Getting the base in place and tightly secured took some elbow grease to start off with (not to mention when I had to undo it for cleanup). However, this got easier over time and when I had finished making all my coffees, I found it pretty easy.

Once the base was in, I put one scoop (0.5 oz) of freshly ground coffee into the bottom of my AeroPress. If you want a double shot of coffee, you add two scoops (1 oz), but I thought I would start things off simply. 

The markers on the side of the chamber are clearly marked with the numbers one to four. I filled my chamber up to number one with water heated to 185 degrees. You fill up to the second marker for a double shot.

Some water dripped out the bottom of my AeroPress at this stage. Luckily, I already had mine sat on a cup (as instructed), but if you didn't, this might be a nasty shock. AeroPress gave me a tip for stopping this dripping. If you gently insert the plunger at an angle then you can lift the plunger up and create a vacuum-like seal that stops the dripping. 

Next, I stirred (coffee geeks would say 'agitated') my grounds with the AeroPress stirrer for about ten seconds. I let my coffee sit for a minute before putting the plunger on and pressing down.

AeroPress' instructions say that some resistance is normal. I expected it to be tough to plunge, but the resistance wasn't nearly as strong as I thought it would be. I pushed gently (as instructed) and then, when I had pushed all the water through my grounds. I lifted the AeroPress up, screwed the bottom off, and kept pushing until my disc of saturated grounds popped out. The whole process was neat and completed in under two minutes. 

I don't know quite what I was expecting from the AeroPress, but my coffee shot was remarkably delicious. It had the syrupy texture of a proper espresso and the rich intensity of one too. Having made it by hand, I felt suitably satisfied. 

Test 2: Americano

Making an Americano follows much of the same process as making an espresso, except that I had to fill the cylinder up to the number four on the side. I plunged again and my cup filled up with dark, rich-looking coffee. 

I tested how the AeroPress sits on a range of coffee cups, since this is pretty key for a clean brewing process. I used a small shallow one, a big wide one, a tall slim one, and it sat sturdily on top of them all. You'd have to have wider-mouthed cups than me (which is pretty impressive if you do) for your AeroPress not to sit on top. It also won't sit on small, espresso shot glasses properly; the wide brewing head will end up pouring coffee onto the countertop.

I extracted an impressive 6 oz of coffee from my AeroPress. That's a decent-sized serving. It might be a little small for some, but it leaves room for you to add milk and syrups to your coffee afterward.

When it came to the all-important taste test, I was really impressed. This came with the notes of a specialty brew: there was some nuttiness, a little sweetness, and some really gorgeous bitter chocolate. I could see a light crema on top of my cup, which even the best drip coffee makers struggle to achieve. Again, the whole process, including brewing was wrapped up in about two minutes. My coffee tasted good enough for me to drink it even quicker, but I sipped and enjoyed it. A lot.

Test 3: cold brew

Now, I'm a bit of a cold brew connoisseur (even if I do say so myself), so the idea that the AeroPress could make a smooth cup of cold brew in just two minutes rang some alarm bells for me. The process should take at least 18 hours, if not 24. However, I've been surprised by a speedy cold brew both on De'Longhi's La Specialista Maestro espresso machine and Eletta Explore bean-to-cup machine, so I tried to withhold judgment.

The process is incredibly similar to making an Americano, except that you use filtered water at room temperature. A scoop of coffee goes in, you fill up to number four with water, give the grounds a stir, wait for a minute (or three) and then plunge and press your coffee. I even used medium-fine coffee grounds (cold brew would normally be coarse). 

AeroPress recommends brewing over ice, so, under instruction, that's exactly what I did. Whilst this wasn't quite the cold brew that I lovingly set-up to infuse overnight, I have to say, it was pretty good. The flavors were notably smoother and sweeter than a hot coffee and I really enjoyed drinking it. I have been served drinks less worthy of the cold brew stamp by qualified baristas, so the AeroPress did a pretty good job. I would say that the flavors don't have quite the same 'depth' to them and that my drink was more watery, but I'm being picky. This was good.

Test 4: latte

I never expected to be able to make a latte with the AeroPress, so I had almost written it off from my testing schedule. Then, on the instruction leaflet, I saw that AeroPress deemed it possible. A closer look at the instructions uncovered that you essentially make an Americano and then add steamed milk at the final step. If you want a latte, you'll need to invest in one of the best milk frothers. 

I gave this a go since I have an espresso machine with a good steam wand in my kitchen. Whilst I did really enjoy my drink — it tasted like my latte had been made in a proper coffee shop — I did have to enlist help from a milk steamer (I used the Smeg milk frother, which you can buy from QVC). 

Top tips

This isn't an official section of our buying guide, but there was something about the unconventional AeroPress that made me want to experiment. I dedicated some time to playing around with the AeroPress, seeing what else it could do and I have come away with a few top tips.

Firstly, I wasn't a big fan of the instant dripping when I poured my hot water over the grounds. I like to bloom my coffee before I drink it (this gets the CO2 out and results in a smoother brew), but when the coffee starts draining, it's hard to get a really good bloom. I found that if you switch up the way that you use the AeroPress, you can bloom and exert a lot more control over the way that you brew. Here's what I did.

I put my plunger in the chamber (without the base or filter in place) and used the plunger to stand the AeroPress on the countertop. Then, I added my coffee grounds, effectively working the AeroPress like before, but the opposite way up. I added a small amount of hot water to my grounds and gave them a stir and thirty seconds to properly bloom. Next, I added the rest of my hot water, let it sit for a few minutes, and then screwed on the base. 

I placed my cup on the top of the AeroPress and, with one hand holding the cup in place and the other holding the AeroPress, I flipped the whole thing around so that the cup sat on the countertop again. Then, I plunged my coffee and it was ready to drink. This will either sound hellish or heavenly to you, depending on both your coordination and how much you care about blooming your coffee. Either way, I'd recommend giving it a go, even if you only do it once.

Cleaning, storage, and maintenance

Although the AeroPress is dishwasher safe, I would recommend that you hand wash yours. There are plenty of places for coffee grounds to get stuck and if you don’t clean these out properly, you’ll end up with a slightly stale or sour taste to your coffee (coming from the oversaturated grounds). 

It's really easy to hand wash the AeroPress too. Take the base off, filter it out, and then use warm soapy water and a gentle detergent. It's that simple. Once you’ve washed and dried it up, storing your AeroPress is easy. It would fit in a drawer or cupboard, so is really convenient for small spaces. I probably wouldn’t build a whole coffee station around one, since it’s not exactly designed with centerpiece aesthetics. 

How does it compare?

Before the AeroPress, the Wacaco Picopresso held the top spot in our buying guide for best portable espresso maker. 

The Wacaco is equally portable and neatly designed. If anything, it feels like a slightly more premium model, owing to the sleek, satin finish. 

Both need you to be relatively involved in the process. You generate pressure in the Picopresso with your hand and you have to push the AeroPress yourself. The benefit of the Picopresso is that you won't get any initial dripping. It's a sealed system. However, the Picopresso will only make espresso. In theory, you could make Americano and cold brew coffees too, but you'd need to add more water to your coffee outside of the Picopresso system.

The AeroPress is well-suited to beginners because the scoop and numbers on the side help you to measure, if not a little loosely. I really liked this casual, accessible approach. What I liked about the AeroPress even more is the price tag. You could buy two and a bit AeroPresses before you could break even with a Picopresso. If you're money-conscious, it's a no-brainer.

Should you buy it?

If you need tasty coffee on the go, you won’t do better than this. The AeroPress well and truly lives up to its reputation. It makes a delicious espresso, unbeatable Americano, and decent cold brew. Once you've learned how AeroPresses work, you won't want to go back. For $50, you won't find a better coffee maker.

How we test

At Homes & Gardens, we have a rigorous testing process for all of our coffee makers. This enables us to score coffee makers both individually and against other models on the market.

We start with our research. As H&G’s coffee expert, I’m always on the lookout for the latest and greatest coffee makers on the market. Once I’ve found one that I think you, our readers, will like, I call it into our test kitchen. 

Once I have the coffee maker in my hands, I’ll get testing. The first thing I make with any espresso machine is an espresso. This is a way of testing how good a coffee maker is at the basics. A good espresso should be between 1.25-2 oz. It should be 190-205 degrees and full of flavor. A big giveaway is the crema on top: that should be thick with a hazelnut hue. 

The AeroPress couldn’t do any more than make an espresso, so I made a load of these to ensure that it was consistent. Then I made notes on the clean-up process as well as how I would recommend storing the AeroPress.

I triple-checked that I had notes for everything: the clean-up, the aesthetics, and what this is like to use, before taking a look at all of our other coffee makers to see how this compares. I also looked at online reviews to see what other experts thought, so that I could bring you a holistic sense of what this is like to use. 

If you’re interested and want to find out more, you can read all about the process in our how we test coffee makers page. 

I tested over forty different coffee makers before settling on just one for the position of best portable espresso maker. If you look online, you'll be overwhelmed with what's on offer. There's plenty of options ranging from the cheap and the colorful, to the complex and the compact, but only a few will make you seriously good coffee on the go.

Sure, one of the best moka pots, a single-serve pour-over, or an Aeropress can brew you coffee in a relatively compact vessel, but they won't deliver the delicious flavors that the best espresso machines can. To reach those lofty, coffee heights you need pressure (not infusion), concentration (the water to coffee ratio will be 2:1 rather than the standard 15:1), and thickness. These are all features which characterise the espresso makers category.

After days of testing the best espresso machines as well as the best portable coffee makers, I've found the best. This model is compact enough to carry in a bag. It's as small as a can of soda, but delivers on the flavors that machines twenty times the size can. It's the perfect travel companion, whether you're away on business or leisure.

The coffee maker I'm talking about is the Wacaco Picopresso and it's truly a gift from the coffee gods. Here's everything you need to know about it, as well as just one alternative option if the Picopresso won't quite suit your needs.

The best portable espresso maker

Best portable espresso maker

It's nearly been a year since I tested the Wacaco Picopresso and nobody has managed to knock it off the top spot as the best portable espresso machine (and coffee maker) on the market. No other brands are balancing style and substance as effectively as Wacaco.

At just over $100, the Picopresso is more expensive than most Flair and Nomad portable coffee makers, but you get what you pay for. The matte satin finish and hard-shell case make this every part the premium coffee maker. Even unboxing it was a treat. Whilst the individual parts (a dosing ring, tamper, brush, needle tool, and basket) feel premium and durable, they don't make it too heavy overall or inconvenient to carry around. 

There are also some lovely accessories, such as the Picopresso stand which can help you to complete your portable coffee collection. The construction quality of both the Picopresso and its accessories is excellent and, I can promise you, that's reflected in the coffee flavors.

Before you get brewing, I'd recommend investing in a portable coffee grinder. The 1Zpresso is currently sitting in the second spot in our buying guide for best coffee grinders and it's compact and cord-free. Once you've got freshly ground coffee beans (opt for a fine grind setting) you'll be able to make espresso shots to rival your favorite barista's. 

The whole process is easy, quiet, and you don't even need a table to use it. My top tip would be that this needs preheating with some hot water (make sure the basket is empty). This will help both the temperature of your espresso and the flavor-extraction. If the metal is already warm, you'll reap the rewards.

The only feature you need to know about is the pump. The Picopresso requires you to manually create pressure by pushing a button in and out. If you suffer from RSI, arthritis, or any other wrist mobility issues, this won't suit you very well. Likewise, if you depend on feeling pressure for knowing when to stop pumping, you might find the Picopresso takes some getting used to. You can't exert the same control over pressure that you might have over the Flair espresso makers, for example.

If you want to learn more, I've written a dedicated Wacaco Picopresso review.

• Back to the top ⤴

An alternative option

Whilst I'd champion the Picopresso to most people, I understand that it might not suit everyone. if you like to feel pressure in your levers or you're worried about aggravating RSI or your wrist muscles, rest assured, the Flair NEO Flex is a great alternative option. 

Flair makes a range of manual espresso machines, but most of these call for niche, specialist grinders, which can make coffee grounds smaller than even the best models on the mainstream market. The NEO Flex is beginner-friendly, compatible with normal, fine grinds. I took it to our test kitchen and made some delicious espressos. Here's all the details.

The Flair NEO Flex is so different to the Picopresso, almost the only thing they have in common is that they can both make espressos without needing to be plugged into a socket. 

The NEO Flex strikes a slim, swooping silhouette on the countertop, with its distinctive looping frame. It's an intriguing-looking piece which is bound to start conversations, but I'm not sure that it's quite to everyone's tastes. 

Setting it up and using it is simple. It has a base, frame, lever, and brew chamber which all slot neatly into place. You need a stable surface for this to work on, which some people say discounts it from the 'portable' category, but I beg to differ. It's lighter than most other portable coffee makers, comes with a travel case, and could easily fit into a suitcase, even though it's larger and more bulky than some other portable espresso machines. I won't deny that it's more space-demanding than most, but it's no different to carrying a laptop.

Even though this is crafted from plastic and by far the cheapest espresso maker I've tested, it feels well-built and durable. To use it, you will need some fresh coffee, finely ground (the same as the Picopresso) and then you'll need to follow all the normal actions for making your espresso: tamping, tightening, pressurizing, and extracting.

Flavor-wise the NEO Flex is flawless. It carries true craft flavors expertly and extracts even the most nuanced notes from beans. I tested this with some slightly botanical coffee grounds and the flavors were pronounced and intense. I'll give credit to the NEO Flex for some of it and credit to freshly ground beans for another part. I can't overstress how important it is to use a good grinder.

Overall, this is bigger than the Picopresso, so technically less portable. However, if you suffer from mobility issues or you're shopping on a budget, this is a good option.

If you want to learn more, I've written a dedicated Flair NEO Flex review.

• Back to the top ⤴

Head-to-head

Coffee travel mugs

You'll need a thermal flask or some sort of travel mug to keep water warm when using both of these portable espresso machines. Luckily, I've been there, done that, and collated all the research. These are the best coffee travel mugs on the market. You can pack them with your portable espresso maker wherever you travel to.

FAQs

Is the Aeropress a good portable coffee maker?

The Aeropress is a great portable option, but the operative word in the question is 'coffee'. The Aeropress won't make an espresso, because the brewing method uses infusion rather than pressure. The coffee won't be thick and rich, it'll be weaker and less intense than a shot. That's why it's not featured here. Whilst it's a good portable coffee maker, it's not an espresso maker.

Can I make good coffee in a portable espresso maker?

Some of the best espresso shots I've brewed have been in portable and manual espresso makers. The key to any good coffee is finding good beans, grinding them finely in a good grinder (there are plenty of recommendations in our coffee grinders buying guide), and drinking your coffee as close to grinding as possible. It's really that simple.

Do moka pots count as portable espresso machines?

Even though moka pots are also known as stovetop espresso machines, the brewing process isn't how you make a traditional espresso. They'll make a delicious, rich, and intense coffee, but will only reach one or two bars of pressure. To put it in context, the Picopresso generates 18 bars.

How we tested these portable espresso makers

At Homes & Gardens, we take our tests incredibly seriously. They're how we let you know what a product is really like to use. 

We have a team of experts who are self-confessed coffee obsessives. They're always researching the latest and greatest models on the market. Once they've found one which they think you'll like, they will call it in to our dedicated test kitchen.

When the espresso maker arrives in our test kitchen, the team has a series of standardized tests and observations which we need to make. We do this for every coffee maker that we test, so that we can make easy comparisons between products and so that you always have a benchmark for what to expect.

Our first test is on, unsurprisingly, single shot espressos. Our experts use the same, finely ground coffee and scoop 18 grams into a double-walled basket. We tamp it and add 1.7 oz of hot water to our grounds. We will measure how much coffee we make (hopefully close to 1.5 oz) and make notes about the appearance, taste, and texture of the shots which we produce.

Normally, we would also test Americano and cappuccino functions, but that doesn't apply for dedicated espresso makers. We just keep testing espressos, making at least five, to ensure a machine is consistent with the first result we found. Using it multiple times will also help us to pick up on any quirks or unusual features that an espresso maker might have. 

Once we've finished with the practical tests, we'll also think about aesthetics and the logistics of how an espresso maker would sit in a range of homes. We'll also make notes on washing up and any maintenance that you might need to undertake. In short, we want to make sure that you don't have any unwelcome surprises if you choose to buy based on our recommendations. 

To find out more, you can visit our dedicated page for how we test coffee makers.

Before I tested the Wirsh Espresso Machine, I was convinced that most models under $500 were hiding some diabolically bad mechanics inside. Now I've been proven wrong.

As a trained barista, I've used espresso machines which are twenty times the price of this, if not more. That's why I was almost baffled by how brilliant this model is. The Wirsh boasts all the premium features of machines ten – even twenty times – its price, with a useful pressure gauge, heat-protected steam wand, and cup warmer on top. Aside from a few plastic finishes and a little less weight, it's hard to tell the difference between the Wirsh and one of the other best espresso machines on the market.

As with any machine, there are quirks that you'll need to accept before fully embracing the Wirsh, but if you're new to espresso machines, short on space, or on a tight budget, I would strongly recommend this model.

Specifications

Unboxing

The unboxing process was everything that I expected from a less expensive model. There was a fair amount of plastic and polystyrene, which isn't great for the environment. However, it does mean that the Wirsh arrived in pristine condition.

Whilst this machine isn't flush with extras, it does have a few small accessories. It doesn't have a stainless steel milk jug, which is always frustrating if you want to start making coffee straight away, but you can buy a stainless steel milk jug for less than $10 at Walmart. However, this comes with a useful tamper that doubles up as a scoop. 

For the cost of this machine, overall it feels pretty premium, however, there are some places where the design does feel more like a $150 machine. It's light and easy to knock off balance if you're locking the portafilter in with a lot of force, with the portafilter the cheapest feeling part of the machine: it's light and plastic, rather than weighty.

Who would it suit?

As a compact, relatively inexpensive model, I'd recommend this to lots of people. It can pull a good, deep shot of coffee and froth milk expertly. There are also nice touches, such as the cup warmer and full steam wand rotation.

If you have a compact kitchen or you're shopping on a budget, I would recommend considering this machine. It's also useful for beginners, because you follow all the standard processes for extracting coffee, without the high stakes of an expensive espresso machine.

What is it like to use?

I was incredibly impressed with this petite machine. Even though I've been spoilt by testing espresso machines over twenty times the price of this one, I still really enjoyed the Wirsh and made some good coffee in it, too. It's straightforward to use and hard to make mistakes. 

There are plenty of premium features, such as a cup warmer and grippy feet on the base to keep the machine stable. Overall, it feels a little cheap, because it's so light. However, there are more expensive machines (such as the TikTok-famous Casabrews 5700 Pro) that struggle with the same issue.

Before making any coffee, I filled the water tank up to the max line. These are clear markers to guide you and the reservoir has plenty of capacity; I think it could last for about ten coffees before needing to refill. I would love Wirsh to add a handle to the water reservoir because that would make this even easier to fill up. At the moment, holding it by its sides is fine.

Once I had filled up the reservoir, I turned the machine on. Some models can take up to ten minutes to heat up and get to the perfect pressure. I started a timer, thinking it would take twenty minutes, but within 20 seconds it was ready to go. 

Test 1: Espresso

When it came to making espressos, I was seriously impressed with this small machine. I used pre-ground coffee, since this doesn’t have a grinder, and scooped it into the portafilter. Their scooper will give the portafilter 10g of coffee, which is 8g short of what I would recommend. However, even with the deepest basket, 18g would be too much to fit in. Having fewer coffee grounds won’t affect the coffee too much, but it will make the flavors lighter and less intense.

Once the coffee was in the portafilter and tamped with the useful scoop-tamper, I locked the portafilter into the brew head. I had to brace the coffee machine with a hand on top because it did lift off from the countertop the first time I tested it. However, as the machine warmed up, I didn't have to keep holding it in place.

The first shot took ten seconds of vibrating and shaking before I got any coffee out. Because this is a light machine, if you have a delicate cup, it’s likely to rattle off. My espresso moved about a centimeter back into the machine, so I had to bring them forward again. This didn’t happen on other tests, so I think it’s just when you use the machine for the first time.

The first espressos I extracted were surprisingly good. They ranged between about 1.05 oz and 1.35 oz, so weaker than I would have liked, but the crema was excellent and all the flavors were well extracted. The notes of milk chocolate and hazelnut really shone through.

Test 2: Americano

Adding hot water to my shot was really easy. If the steam setting isn’t selected, the steam wand will dispense a thin stream of hot water. I’ve seen this type of hot water dispense before and it often causes splashes of coffee inside the cup. However, the pressure is perfect in the Wirsh, because although the jet was strong, it did not create any mess. The only downside of this pressure is that it takes about 12 seconds to fill a cup with 10.5 oz of hot water, which is significantly longer than other machines.

The water was hot, but not boiling, so, once I had added my espresso to the hot water, it was a faultless Americano. I would use a double shot to get strength into your coffee because it is weaker than normal, but that’s no bad thing if you’re new to specialty coffee and espresso machines.

Test 3: Cappuccino

Like any premium machine, this steam wand has a useful rubber guard to prevent you from burning your hand. It also has an impressive 360-degree rotation, making it easy to slot any cup underneath. The simple wand makes it very easy to steam milk if you’re a beginner. However, if you want to become an expert at milk frothing, you'll need to practice how you texture milk. I tested the wand with both dairy and oat milk with little complaint. If I closed my eyes, I wouldn't have been able to tell the difference between this and more expensive models like the Bambino Plus. 

When I added milk to my espresso shots, the cappuccinos were smooth and sweet. The milk helped to enhance the delicate chocolatey notes of my coffee and, even though it was weaker than I would like it to be, it was a success. 

Cleaning, storage, and maintenance

The clean-down process was very straightforward. The drip tray lifts nearly out of the machine and the rest of the pipes only needed a run-through with hot water before it was finished. This comes with some useful cleaning tools for the steam wand, so if you ever forget to clean it out straight after use, the pin will do the job for you. 

This clever machine will also switch off after 25 minutes of inaction. If you live in a busy home, you’re careful with electricity, or simply forgetful, you’ll be grateful for this feature – I certainly was. 

How does it rate online?

There aren't lots of reviews for this online, but on Amazon, the Wirsh boasts 4.4 stars overall. The reoccurring word in every review is 'value'. Lots of people were extremely pleased with what the Wirsh delivers. Almost everyone complimented it as easy to use with intuitive controls. I even saw a review of this written by a barista who was impressed with the pressure and controls.

The little criticisms that I found centered around quality. The portafiler is lighter than a more premium option, making it feel slightly cheap. Some people wanted a more obtuse steam wand angle, but I wouldn't change this. It has 360 degrees of rotation and is easy to adjust to suit different coffee makers.

How does it compare?

This looks a lot like Breville machine, so I thought it was best to compare it to Breville's Bambino. Overall, the Bambino feels more premium. It's more robust and heavy, and yet, to look at, there's very little difference between the two machines. The Wirsh is a little smaller, but only slightly. At over three times the price, I would expect the Bambino to feel more robust than the Wirsh.

Neither machine has an integrated grinder, but they're brilliant for basics. The Bambino is excellent at extracting the full flavors from coffee, so each shot packs a punch. Wirsh's machine made a weaker shot but still managed to extract the flavors really well. When it came to milk frothing, there was very little difference between the two machines. You'll need to refine your barista skills to make the most of this machine, but they're very similar.

If you want an even more inexpensive option and you still want to be able to make espresso-style coffees, I'd recommend the AeroPress. This costs around $30, it's easy to use, and you could keep it in just a drawer. You'll need a kettle close to hand, which can limit the AeroPress' independence. The Wirsh will give you more of a taste of barista-style brewing, whereas the AeroPress is a more convenient, portable option.

Should you buy it?

If this is your first espresso machine in a small home or apartment, this is an excellent investment. It's hard to believe that an espresso machine this good costs close to $150. Using the word 'bargain' detracts from how wonderful this is. I thought it was an excellent machine with some incredibly well considered features too. As a coffee snob, I was pleasantly surprised.  

How we test

At Homes & Gardens, we take our coffee tests seriously. Laura, a trained barista, took the Wirsh to our test kitchen, where she tested it alongside other espresso machines. She made notes on the whole process, from unboxing and cleaning up to the all-important taste test. If there's a special feature, we'll let you know about it and if a machine makes claims, we always test them so you know whether they're genuinely good or just a gimmick. If you'd like to find out more, we have a dedicated page for how we test coffee makers.

Aeropress has historically dominated the portable coffee makers market, but with the launch of the Wacaco Picopresso, it looks like they've got some competition. This soda-sized espresso maker looks luxurious, but is it any good?

I started testing the Wacaco Picopresso a year ago and it was love at first shot. This is an incredibly premium product. The simple functions, a satin sheen exterior, neat interior design, and an impressive capacity to brew incredible coffee means that this is easily one of the best espresso machines on the market, even against models that are ten or twenty times the price.

As a portable espresso maker, this is right up there. If you want to know more about how it works and whether it's better than the AeroPress, here's everything you need to know.

Specifications

Unboxing

It’s rare that an unboxing experience is truly pleasurable. This was like unboxing an Apple iPhone, but better. The thick, satin box feels ultra-premium. Inside, the Picopresso and its case look really smart. The box has a sponge inside to secure and protect it. This would be a bit tricky to recycle if I didn’t want to keep the box. At first sight, however, it’s the perfect present for a coffee fanatic.

It comes with a travel pouch, an aluminum funnel, and an aluminum palm tamper. This is the best tamper that I’ve received with a machine. All of the useful accessories fit into the box and can sit inside the piston so that you won’t lose them. It felt ultra-durable in my hand, too.

Who would it suit?

The Wacaco Picopresso is perfect if you’re often traveling for work or away at the weekends. It can deliver café quality coffee on the go. You’ll need a kettle or hot water tap nearby, but this means it will work in hotels and holiday homes. You’ll want to have a home grinder and scales to make perfect, consistent coffee.

If this is your first espresso machine, or you have small countertops, this compact, relatively inexpensive espresso maker is the perfect place to start. However, if you want all the bells and whistles of a full-sized machine, such as an integrated grinder, steam wand, and hot water boiler, this might not be the one for you. Powerful machines are always going to offer more variety, but the Picopresso might make you reconsider whether you need a big espresso machine.

What is it like to use?

Easy is an understatement. I like to watch videos to work out how to use small appliances, but the instructions were so clear for this, I didn’t need to. To start, I unscrewed the bottom. I then placed the funnel on top as I scooped 18g of coffee into the double walled basket. I used the Wacaco manual grinder, available on Amazon and coffee scales, also available on Amazon to make sure that I got my measurements perfect. I think 18g was the limit for what the portafilter can hold, which is perfect for a double shot.

Before screwing the portafilter basket in, Wacaco recommends that you pump boiling water through the espresso maker to warm it. This doesn’t take long and gives you good practice for when you make coffee. To get started on your espresso add 50ml of hot water into the barrel and screw the portafilter into place. I twisted the front button to free the pump and, after pumping over a coffee cup for a few seconds, I saw smooth espresso pouring out of my Picopresso. You need to have steady hands for this because it’s entirely held, pumped, and controlled by you.

Testing espresso

Rather than use electricity to attain the pressure of an espresso machine, the piston uses a hand pump to create 18 bars of pressure, which then forces the hot water through the basket. This whole process took about a minute in total. That’s a little longer than an espresso machine, but there was no warm-up or set-up required. There’s no way of measuring how much water you’re adding in, because there’s no watermark. If you want to be totally precise you’ll need to measure out 50ml of boiling water beforehand.

However, for such a tiny, rough-and-ready machine, it produces unbelievable espresso. My espresso had a lovely crema on top. I was really impressed at how intense and smooth my shot was given how quickly I extracted it and how quiet this little espresso machine was. 

However, here we reach the obvious drawback with this machine. In all our other espresso machine reviews I also test americanos and cappuccinos. Here, however, there's only one test. There’s nothing else to make with this: it doesn’t have a steam wand, so it’s pure espressos or nothing. It’s an expert in espressos though.

Cleaning, Storage, and Maintenance

This is just as easy to take apart as it is to put together. It's not dishwasher safe, but it's simple fill a sink with warm, soapy water and clean each part individually. Make sure you give the piston a thorough dry, otherwise it’ll leak water if you put it into your bag when left damp and unscrewed. As small appliances go, it’s really easy to clean. 

As a portable espresso maker, this is designed to be easy to store. It packs back into itself and zips up in a neat case. It couldn’t be more compact. It’s the size of a can of cola in total, so you should have room for it almost anywhere. The only maintenance that this will need is thorough cleaning. I’d soak the basket in a dilution of water and vinegar or cleaning liquid every week for a deep clean. 

How does it rate online?

Users love the Picopresso. I found that most user reviews were from people who want coffee whilst they travel and those who are tight on space. Almost everyone commented on how premium it felt; it’s a really impressive espresso maker. 

Some reviewers found hand washing a little cumbersome, so wouldn’t recommend it for those in a rush. It’s true. You’ll need to wash, dry and reassemble the components carefully, but to be fair, every machine requires proper cleaning and maintenance. Unlike the Nanopresso, available on Amazon, which has an add-on feature for single-serve coffee, the Picopresso can only handle ground coffee. A number of users said that they would like to have a feature for coffee pods in the future, especially for those who don’t own grinders.

How does it compare?

If you’re looking at the Picopresso, you’ll be looking for less expensive, smaller espresso machines. The section after this one is dedicated to comparing the Wacaco Picopresso and the AeroPress, since that's the question on everyone's lips. However, they're not the only two models on the market. If you want a compact espresso machine, you'll have also come across the Breville Bambino Plus. You can see in the image above that they look almost ridiculous next to each other on a countertop. The Bambino Plus is compact, but it looks mammoth next to the Picopresso. For taste, there’s nothing between the two in terms of espressos. They both made a really good shot. Both require you to own either a coffee grinder or pre-ground coffee too.

If you only wanted to make espressos, I would choose the Picopresso. It’s small, portable, and less of an investment. It’s also great in the mornings, because it’s close to silent. However, if you don’t need your espresso maker to be portable, the Bambino Plus can froth milk and boil water itself. It doesn’t need you to power it, nor does it require as much cleaning between coffees. Both are brilliant espresso makers, but they serve different people.

Wacaco Picopresso vs AeroPress

I would be surprised if you've never heard of the AeroPress before. It's a Californian start-up that took the coffee world by a storm. The AeroPress is a slightly different shape to the Picopresso – it's taller and slimmer – but it's still easily portable. The clear BPA-free plastic doesn't have the same sleek design that the Picopresso does, but it has quite a fun, scientific-like aesthetic, that lots of people love. 

The clear AeroPress is also really useful for watching your coffee brew. There are fewer steps to make coffee in the AeroPress and I would say that the overall process is less fiddly than the Wacaco Picopresso, but neither is particularly difficult.

However, it is worth noting that, technically, the AeroPress can only make espresso-like shots. It can make Americanos too, but you can't get the same pressure and extraction in the AeroPress' syringe-like tube to make a proper espresso. I don't think there's much of a flavor difference, but if you know you're a coffee snob and you want a technically perfect espresso, the Wacaco Picopresso is better for you.

So, if you want the luxury, specialty experience, the Wacaco Picopresso is a better investment. It makes for a good gift and the design is ultra-stylish. However, if you want to save some money and hassle, the AeroPress is a better bet.

Should you buy it?

A pocketful of Picopresso is every coffee connoisseur's dream. It’s the most compact espresso machine on the market, but it doesn’t feel inferior to Picopresso’s countertop competitors.

As a barista, I have high standards when it comes to espresso makers and I wasn't going to give this an easy ride just because it's portable. After using it to brew consistently smooth, well-extracted coffee, I can vouch for the Wacaco Picopresso. It's an impressive coffee maker. If you’re on the go, off on holiday, or know you only want espresso rather than any other style, this is a perfect little machine.

How We Test

Every espresso machine that we recommend has been put through its paces by our team of experts. Laura, a trained barista, used this espresso machine in our test kitchen.

We have a series of standard tests which we put every espresso machine through. These include espresso, Americano, and cappuccino. We make sure that we taste the coffee, so that we can judge the flavour, as well as evaluate the process. We look at everything from unboxing to cleaning, so you know what to expect from your espresso machine. For more detail about how we test you can visit our dedicated page. 

Learning how to use a French press is simple: coffee grounds go in with some hot water, they steep, and then you push the plunger and pour out your coffee. Everyone can do it, but not everybody does it right. There are times, temperatures, and grind sizes that will brew a better cup of French press coffee compared to others.

As a former barista, I like to get into the details of how every coffee maker works. Luckily, all of the best French presses follow the same method. This means that there's a consistent process that makes the perfect cup of coffee. You can adjust the time, temperature, and quantities as you go, but this is a good baseline from coffee novices right up to the experts.

We've got all the details you need to make a delicious cup of coffee as well as advice on how to clean your French press and other things you can brew in a French press. Here's a comprehensive guide for making the most out of your French press coffee maker.

What is a French press?

Before we dive deep into the details of how to use a French press, it's worth clarifying exactly what one of these is and how they work. Also known as cafetières and plunge pots, French presses brew coffee using the immersion method. 'As the name suggests the ground coffee is immersed in the hot water so that the coffee solubles can be extracted from the beans,' says James Gray, co-founder of Barista & Co. 

'The filter is then pressed down to prevent the non-solubles, namely grounds, from getting into the cup. The pressing down of the filter has little to do with the coffee strength, it is purely there to help get a cleaner cup of coffee.'

If you haven't yet invested in a French press, it's worth taking a look at our buying guide. We have plenty of suggestions for which models make the best French presses on the market, but here are three of my favorites:

What you need to make a French press

Before we get into a step-by-step guide for how to use a French press to make coffee, it's worth setting yourself up with some coffee station essentials. If you want to make a delicious cup of coffee, you'll need a good grinder and some delicious beans.

We've tested and reviewed the best coffee grinders on the market and the best one for medium-coarse coffee grounds (the ones you use to make French press coffee) is the Fellow Ode coffee grinder, which is available at Amazon.

When you're picking the best beans for your French press, the choice is more subjective. You'll need to find ones that suit your tastes. James Gray says that 'French presses are equally as good for brewing lighter more tea-like coffees from the likes of Ethiopia or bolder coffees from Brazil – it is very much personal preference.'

How to use a French press to make coffee

Before I do anything with my coffee, I fill up my French press with boiling hot water. I let it sit for about thirty seconds before pouring the water back out. This gets the carafe pre-warmed so that when you add coffee and water later on in the process, the carafe doesn't lose any of the all-important heat.

Then, you'll want to add your medium-coarsely ground coffee. The general rule for French press coffee is to work with a coffee-to-water ratio of 1:15. If you're making two cups, you'll want 14-16 grams of coffee for 12 oz of water. 

James says: 'It's important to remember that traditionally French press sizing is based on cups with a small 350ml one being three cups and large one liter being eight cups. 

'This can be confusing when buying online as the cup size relates to the old tasse cup sizes, in modern size standards a three cup is one mug and an eight cup is three mugs. It is well worth putting your French press on the kitchen scales to make your first brew as getting the coffee-to-water ratio right makes a big difference.'

Coffee pedants will tell you that you need to weigh out your coffee and, if you want consistency, you should. However, if you've seen a barista at home, they'll use a tablespoon to add their coffee grounds into the cup. Approximate measurements are fine.

Once your coffee is in the carafe, pour a small amount of water at between 195 to 200°F over your coffee. You only want to add enough to cover the grounds and then stir it around. Let the coffee sit for 30 seconds. You'll see it bubbling, which is all the CO² leaving your coffee. You don't have to do this 'blooming', but it makes your coffee taste smoother and less acidic.

Once this is done, you can pour in the rest of your water. I tend to follow a circular motion since that ensures all the coffee grounds are evenly saturated. You can give it a stir too.

Then, insert the lid and leave your French press for five to eight minutes. Less time will make for a lighter, more tea-like cup of coffee. Eight minutes will give you a stronger, bolder cup.

When you're happy with the time, slowly press down on the plunger and you'll see it filtering out all of the coffee grounds, pushing them to the bottom of your cup. Serve up straight away, or pour your coffee into another vessel. Any coffee left in the carafe will keep brewing, tasting more and more bitter as time passes.

How to clean a French press

We've dedicated a whole article to how to clean a French press, so you'll find all the details of both daily and deep cleans over there. The most important thing to remember is that you need to clean your French press as soon as possible. Don't let the grounds sit in your carafe and plunger because they'll stain and become harder to clean. I recommend getting the coffee grounds out and into the food waste (or garden) and then letting the carafe soak.

On simple uses, all you have to do is wash the carafe and filter in warm soapy water. Then, once a week, take the plunger apart and do a deep clean of the filter and separate parts of the plunger.

How to make coffee without a French press

There are many other brewing techniques and ways to make coffee, which include gravity brewers such as pour-over and pressurized immersion brewers such as the Aeropress. 

'Pour over is the simplest and seemingly easiest technique to make a cup of coffee but this comes with a caveat and that is that this technique can be very inconsistent and really is best if you can use your scales,' suggests James Gray. 

'There is a massive community of coffee lovers who are constantly striving with equipment and methods to achieve consistent pour-over coffee; done well it can’t be beaten and who doesn't love the smell of fresh coffee brewing in front of them? 

'If you prefer a stronger cup of coffee then opting for a pressurized immersion brewer can achieve this. They do not make an espresso but will give you a short black coffee that packs more punch than an Americano. This type of brewing does take a little more effort but the result is well worth it if you’re a stronger coffee drinker.'

FAQs

How much coffee do you need for a French press?

The golden ratio for French press is a 1:15 for coffee and water. That means you'll have about 15 g of coffee for 12 oz of water. I'd recommend playing with the different ratios until you find a flavor balance that you enjoy. Taste is subjective, after all.

How long is French press brew time?

Brew time may be slightly longer than you expected.

Barista & Co's James Gray says: 'We have been making French presses for 10 years and spent a great deal of time testing this in our roastery. 

'We feel the optimum brew time is seven to eight minutes. In addition to this slightly longer brew time, we suggest a medium to coarse grind for a fuller flavor.'

Can I make anything other than coffee in a French press?

You can infuse oils, make cold brew coffee, iced teas, and even sangria in a French press. I've written a whole article on the alternative uses of French press coffee makers.

The fundamentals of making French press coffee are simple. You don't need to be regimented with measurements and timing, because approximations deliver flavors just as delicious. The key is to adjust recipes until you find a balance of flavors that you enjoy.