In this article, we discuss the different Chemex sizes!
If you’re a fan of coffee, you’re likely familiar with the Chemex. This iconic coffee maker has been a staple in homes and cafes for decades. But did you know that the Chemex comes in different sizes?
That’s right, the Chemex is available in a range of sizes, from a single cup to a 10-cup model. Each size has its unique benefits, depending on your needs and preferences.
In this article, we’ll explore the sizes available and help you determine which is suitable for your needs.
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History of Chemex
The Chemex was invented by a chemist named Peter Schlumbohm in 1941. Schlumbohm was an eccentric inventor who held over 300 patents in his lifetime.
The Chemex is a pour-over coffee maker that uses a paper filter. It’s made of glass and has a unique hourglass shape. The design of the Chemex is so iconic that it’s part of the permanent collection at the Museum of Modern Art in New York.
Schlumbohm’s goal was to create a functional and beautiful coffee maker. He believed that coffee should be brewed slowly and with care. The Chemex is designed to do just that. It allows the coffee to steep and develop its flavor over time.
The Chemex was patented in 1942, and production began in 1946. The classic Chemex is still being produced today and looks almost identical to the original design. The only difference is that the logo has been updated.
Over the years, the Chemex has become a favorite of coffee lovers around the world. It’s a simple, elegant coffee maker that produces a clean, flavorful cup of coffee.
Understanding Chemex Sizes
If you’re new to Chemex, you may wonder what size to choose. Here’s what you need to know about Chemex sizes:
Standard Chemex Size
The standard Chemex size is the 6-cup model, perfect for making coffee for two to three people. It has a capacity of 30 ounces (887 milliliters, about four 8-ounce cups or six 5-ounce cups).
3-Cup Model
If you’re brewing coffee for one or two people, the 3-cup model is a great option. It has a capacity of 15 ounces (443 milliliters, about two 8-ounce cups or three 5-ounce cups) and is perfect for those who prefer a smaller cup of coffee. The 3-cup model is also great for those who have limited counter space.
8-Cup Model
If you often host coffee-loving guests or have a larger household, the 8-cup Chemex is an excellent choice. With a capacity of about 40 ounces (1.18 liters, about five 8-ounce cups, or eight 5-ounce cups), it allows you to brew generous servings of coffee while maintaining the same high-quality extraction as its smaller counterparts.
Classic Series – 8-Cup
10-Cup Model
For those who need even more coffee, the 10-cup model is the perfect choice. It has a capacity of 50 ounces (1.47 liters, a bit over six 8-ounce cups or ten 5-ounce cups). The 10-cup model is also great for those who like to make a large batch of coffee and store it in the refrigerator for later.
When choosing a Chemex size, consider the number of people you’ll be brewing coffee for and how much counter space you have available. Keep in mind that the larger the Chemex, the more coffee it can hold, but it may also take up more counter space.
Chemex Models
If you’re in the market for a Chemex brewer, you’ll want to know the differences between the various models.
Classic Chemex
The classic Chemex is the original and most well-known model. It comes in a 3-cup, 6-cup, 8-cup, and 10-cup size and features the iconic hourglass shape and wooden collar. The classic Chemex is perfect for those who want a timeless design and a reliable brewing experience.
CHEMEX Bundle – 6-Cup Classic Series
Glass Handle Series
The Glass Handle Series is a modern take on the classic Chemex. It features a glass handle instead of a wooden collar, giving it a sleek and contemporary look. The Glass Handle Series is available in 3-cup, 6-cup, 8-cup, and 10-cup sizes.
Handblown Series
The Handblown Series is a limited edition line of Chemex brewers handcrafted by skilled artisans. Each Handblown Chemex is unique and features a one-of-a-kind design. The Handblown Series is available in 3-cup, 8-cup, and 10-cup sizes.
Chemex Brewer
The Chemex Brewer is a simplified version of the classic Chemex. It features a flat bottom and a single piece of glass, making it easier to clean and use. The Chemex Brewer is available in 6-cup and 8-cup sizes.
Choosing the Right Chemex Size
When choosing the right Chemex size, a few factors must be considered.
Your needs and preferences will play a significant role in determining which size is right for you. Also, keep in mind we discussed Chemex models. You may be inclined to consider the Classic model in a specific size but you can also evaluate other models since they come in different sizes.
If you are brewing for one or two people, a smaller Chemex size may be more suitable. The 3-cup and 6-cup sizes are popular choices for individuals or couples. These sizes are also great if your kitchen has limited counter space or storage space.
On the other hand, if you are brewing for a family or group of people, a larger Chemex size may be necessary. The 8-cup and 10-cup sizes are popular choices for larger gatherings. These sizes are also great if you want to make a larger batch of coffee to store in the fridge later.
It’s also important to consider the market availability of different Chemex sizes. While the 6-cup size is one of the most popular, it may not be available at every store. If you have your heart set on a specific size, it’s worth checking the availability at your local store or online before purchasing.
With these factors in mind, you can choose the perfect Chemex size for your home brewing needs.
Chemex Coffee Makers: Design and Material
The Chemex coffee maker is known for its hourglass shape, which is visually appealing and serves a functional purpose. The shape allows for a uniform extraction of coffee, resulting in a consistent and flavorful cup. The collar, made of wood, adds to the aesthetic appeal and provides a comfortable grip while pouring.
The Chemex coffee maker is made of borosilicate glass, known for its durability and resistance to thermal shock. This means the glass will not crack or break when exposed to extreme temperature changes, making it a reliable and long-lasting option.
The handblown Chemex is a unique and special version of the coffee maker, each being one-of-a-kind due to its handmade nature. The glass design features a body and belly wider than the neck, allowing for easy cleaning and a smooth pour.
To use the Chemex coffee maker, you will need to use a Chemex coffee filter, which is thicker than most filters and helps to trap more of the coffee’s oils and flavors. The wood collar and leather tie are also important components, as they keep the coffee maker securely in place and add to the overall aesthetic appeal.
Brewing Process and Flavor
When brewing coffee with a Chemex, the process differs from other pour-over methods.
- First, you’ll want to grind your coffee beans to a medium-coarse texture. This will help ensure the coffee is extracted correctly and not become too bitter or weak.
- Next, place a Chemex filter in the filter cone and rinse it with hot water. This will help remove any paper taste and preheat the Chemex. Discard the hot water and add your ground coffee to the filter.
- Start by pouring a small amount of hot water over the coffee grounds to wet them (a gooseneck kettle helps to pour the water at the proper flow). This is called the “bloom” and allows the coffee to release carbon dioxide and other gases trapped in the beans.
- After about 30 seconds, continue pouring hot water over the grounds in a circular motion.
The Chemex allows for a slower extraction process, which can result in a cleaner, more pure flavor profile. The filter cone removes any oils or sediment from the coffee, resulting in a smoother cup of coffee with less bitterness.
The temperature of the water is also essential when brewing with a Chemex. Ideally, you’ll want the water to be between 195-205°F. This will help ensure the coffee is brewed at the correct temperature and doesn’t become too weak or too strong.
Benefits of Using Chemex
We have discussed Chemex sizes, models, design, materials, and brewing process. But what are the benefits of using a Chemex? We touch on these below.
Clean Cup of Coffee
The Chemex is a pour-over coffee maker that uses a thick paper filter to remove any impurities from your coffee, resulting in a clean cup of coffee every time. This is because the filter is thicker than most other coffee filters, which can trap more coffee oils and sediment that can make your coffee taste bitter or sour.
Laboratory Beaker Design
The Chemex has a unique design that resembles a laboratory beaker, which looks fantastic and makes it an efficient coffee brewing tool. The narrow neck of the Chemex helps regulate the water flow over the coffee grounds, resulting in a more even extraction.
Affordable
Compared to other high-end coffee makers, the Chemex is relatively affordable. It’s a great option for anyone upgrading their coffee brewing game without breaking the bank.
Efficient
The Chemex is an efficient coffee brewing method requiring minimal equipment and minimal waste. You only need the Chemex, a paper filter, and some coffee beans. Plus, the Chemex is easy to clean and maintain, making it a hassle-free addition to your coffee brewing routine.
The Chemex is worth considering if you want to upgrade your coffee game.
Additional Chemex Resources
If you’re looking for more information about Chemex sizes, a variety of resources are available to you. Here are a few that you might find helpful:
- Store Locator: If you’re interested in purchasing a Chemex, you can use the store locator on the Chemex website to find a retailer near you. This is a great way to understand the available sizes and styles.
- Application: The Chemex app is an excellent resource for coffee lovers. It includes recipes, brewing tips, and information about different Chemex sizes. You can download it for free on the App Store or Google Play.
- Custom Program: If you want to order a custom Chemex, you can contact the company’s custom program. They can help you create a unique design that fits your specific needs.
- Press Kit: If you’re a press member, you can access the Chemex press kit on the company’s website. It includes information about the company’s history, as well as high-quality images of the different sizes and styles of Chemex.
- International Distributor: If you’re outside the United States, you can use the international distributor locator on the Chemex website to find a local distributor. This can be a great way to get access to Chemex products without having to pay for international shipping.
- Wholesale Ordering: If you want to order Chemex products in bulk, you can contact the company’s wholesale department. They can provide you with pricing information and help you place your order.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the different sizes of Chemex coffee makers?
Chemex coffee makers are available in various sizes, including 3-cup, 6-cup, 8-cup, and 10-cup models. Each size is designed to cater to different needs, depending on the number of people you want to serve.
What is the capacity of a 6-cup Chemex?
The 6-cup Chemex has a total capacity of 30 ounces or 887 milliliters. This size is perfect for serving coffee to a small group, such as two to three coffee drinkers.
How large is an 8-cup Chemex?
The 8-cup Chemex has a total capacity of 40 ounces or 1182 milliliters. This size is ideal for serving coffee to a larger group, such as four to six coffee drinkers.
What is the smallest size Chemex available?
The smallest Chemex available is the 3-cup model, which has a total capacity of 15 ounces or 443 milliliters. This size is perfect for solo coffee drinkers or for brewing coffee for two people.
What is the largest size Chemex available?
The largest Chemex available is the 10-cup model, which has a total capacity of 50 ounces or 1479 milliliters. This size is ideal for serving coffee to a large group, such as eight to ten coffee drinkers.
What is the most popular size of Chemex?
The most popular size of Chemex is the 8-cup model. It is the perfect size for serving coffee to a small group of people, and it is also versatile enough to accommodate larger groups if needed.
I love, love Chemex coffee brewers (how I can’t as an engineer?). I hope you have enjoyed learning about the different Chemex sizes. See you next time!
What Chemex sizes do you prefer?