Chemex vs Kalita Wave. In this article, we compare these two pour-over brewing methods.
Chemex and Kalita Wave are two popular options that offer unique brewing experiences. Chemex is a pour-over brewing method that uses a thick paper filter to produce a clean and bright cup of coffee. On the other hand, Kalita Wave is a flat-bottom dripper that uses a thinner paper filter and a wave design to create a balanced and flavorful cup of coffee.
Granted, both methods produce delicious coffee. However, there are important differences to consider. This article provides in-depth information so you can select the brewer that works best for your needs.
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Origins and History
The Chemex was invented in 1941 by Peter Schlumbohm, a German chemist who immigrated to the United States. Schlumbohm was passionate about creating functional and beautiful products, and the Chemex is a prime example of this philosophy. The Chemex’s elegant hourglass shape and wooden collar have made it an iconic piece of design, and it’s even a part of the permanent collection at the Museum of Modern Art in New York City.
Notice Chemex not only refers to the coffee brewer itself. The company that manufactures the brewer is called Chemex Corporation. Similar brewers manufactured by other companies are not technically a Chemex.
On the other hand, the Wave was introduced to the market in the 2010s by a Japanese company called Kalita. This company has been in operation since the 1950s. The Kalita Wave takes its name from its wave-like filters, which are designed to promote even extraction and a smooth, balanced cup of coffee. The Kalita Wave has become increasingly popular recently, particularly among specialty coffee enthusiasts who appreciate its precision and consistency.
Despite their different origins, both the Chemex and Kalita Wave are beloved by coffee lovers around the world.
Understanding the Brewing Process
Brewing with Chemex
When brewing with a Chemex, you will need a Chemex brewer, Chemex paper filters, a kettle, a scale, and freshly roasted coffee beans. The Chemex is a pour-over brewing method that uses a thick paper filter to produce a clean and crisp cup of coffee. Here is how you can brew coffee with a Chemex:
- Grind your coffee beans to a medium-coarse grind.
- Boil water and let it cool for 30 seconds to 1 minute to reach a temperature of around 200°F.
- Place the Chemex paper filter in the brewer and wet it with hot water to rinse out any paper taste.
- Discard the rinse water and add your ground coffee to the filter.
- Start pouring hot water over the coffee in a circular motion, wetting all the grounds evenly. The goal is to saturate the coffee and let it bloom for 30 seconds.
- Continue pouring water in a slow and steady stream, keeping the water level about 1 inch below the top of the Chemex.
- Once you have added the desired amount of water, remove the filter and enjoy your coffee.
Brewing with Kalita Wave
The Kalita Wave is a pour-over brewing method that uses a flat-bottomed dripper and a wave-shaped filter to produce a balanced and flavorful cup of coffee. To brew coffee with a Kalita Wave, you will need a Kalita Wave dripper, Kalita Wave paper filters, a kettle, a scale, and freshly roasted coffee beans. Here is how you can brew coffee with a Kalita Wave:
- Grind your coffee beans to a medium-fine grind.
- Boil water and let it cool for 30 seconds to 1 minute to reach a temperature of around 200°F.
- Place the Kalita Wave paper filter in the dripper and wet it with hot water to rinse out any paper taste.
- Discard the rinse water and add your ground coffee to the filter.
- Start pouring hot water over the coffee in a circular motion, wetting all the grounds evenly. The goal is to saturate the coffee and let it bloom for 30 seconds.
- After the bloom, pour water in a slow and steady stream over the coffee, keeping the water level about 1 inch below the top of the dripper.
- Continue pouring water in intervals until you reach the desired amount of coffee.
- Remove the dripper and enjoy your coffee.
The Chemex and Kalita Wave are great pour-over methods for producing delicious coffee.
Chemex vs Kalita Wave: Design and Material
Chemex Design
The Chemex coffee maker is known for its elegant hourglass shape and simple design. It is made of high-quality borosilicate glass, which is durable and heat-resistant. The glass is thick enough to withstand the rigors of daily use but not too heavy to make it challenging to handle. The Chemex’s wooden collar and leather tie provide a comfortable grip and a classic look.
Kalita Wave Design
The Kalita Wave coffee maker has a flat bottom and a wave-shaped filter. It is available in different materials, including glass, stainless steel, and ceramic. The glass and ceramic versions look elegant on any coffee lover’s countertop. The stainless steel version is more durable and suitable for outdoor use.
The Kalita Wave’s flat bottom promotes even extraction, while the wave-shaped filter prevents over-extraction. The filter’s design ensures that the coffee grounds are evenly saturated, resulting in a balanced and flavorful cup of coffee.
To summarize, the Chemex and Kalita Wave are well-designed coffee makers offering different features and benefits.
Filters and Extraction
Chemex Filters
When it comes to Chemex filters, you have two options: paper or metal. The paper filters are the classic choice. They are made of thicker paper that helps remove unwanted particles from your coffee. The metal filters, however, are reusable and can be a great option if you’re looking to reduce waste.
No matter which type of filter you choose, it’s important to ensure it is seated correctly in the Chemex. This will help ensure an even extraction and prevent coffee grounds from escaping into your cup.
Kalita Wave Filters
The Kalita Wave uses paper filters specifically designed to promote even extraction. These filters have a unique wave shape that helps keep the coffee grounds evenly distributed during brewing.
Like the Chemex, it’s important to ensure the filter is properly seated in the Kalita Wave. This will help ensure that the coffee is evenly extracted and that you end up with a delicious cup.
To summarize, both the Chemex and Kalita Wave filters are designed to promote even extraction and help remove any unwanted particles from your coffee.
Chemex vs Kalita Wave: Taste and Flavor Profiles
Flavor Profile of Chemex Brew
You can expect a clean and crisp cup of coffee when it comes to Chemex. The thick Chemex filter removes more oils and sediment from the coffee, resulting in a bright and flavorful cup. The flavor profile of Chemex brew is known for its clarity and nuance. The coffee has a clean finish with a bright acidity that is not overpowering. The Chemex brew is flavorful but not overly bold.
The Chemex brew has a unique flavor profile that differs from other pour-over methods. The coffee is less sweet and has a more subtle fruit flavor. The coffee has a medium body and is not too heavy.
Flavor Profile of Kalita Wave Brew
The Kalita Wave filter is thinner and allows more oils and sediment to pass through, resulting in a more full-bodied and sweet coffee. The flavor profile of Kalita Wave brew is known for its fruity notes and sweetness. The coffee has a complex flavor profile unique to the Kalita Wave method.
The Kalita Wave brew has a unique flavor profile that differs from other pour-over methods. The coffee is more sweet and has a more pronounced fruit flavor. The coffee has a full body and is more robust than the Chemex brew.
To summarize, both methods produce a flavorful cup of coffee, but the flavor profile differs.
Ease of Use and Maintenance
Maintaining a Chemex
The Chemex is a simple and elegant brewing device that is easy to use and maintain. After each use, discard the used filter and rinse the Chemex with hot water. You can use a soft brush or sponge to remove stubborn coffee stains.
To keep your Chemex in top condition, avoiding harsh chemicals or abrasive scrubbers is important. Instead, stick to mild dish soap and warm water. The Chemex is dishwasher safe, according to the manufacturer. However, they recommend ensuring the Chemex does not contact other objects while in the dishwasher.
Maintaining a Kalita Wave
The Kalita Wave is also easy to use and maintain but requires a slightly different approach than the Chemex. After each use, remove the used filter and rinse the Kalita Wave with hot water. You can use a soft brush or sponge to remove any coffee residue.
Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive scrubbers to keep your Kalita Wave in good condition. Instead, use mild dish soap and warm water. The Kalita Wave is also dishwasher-safe, so you can safely clean it in the top rack of your dishwasher.
To summarize, the Chemex and Kalita Wave are clean and easy to maintain. Both brewers can be safely cleaned in the dishwasher. However, you must be careful if you place a Chemex in the dishwasher.
Chemex vs Kalita Wave: Portability and Capacity
Chemex Portability
The Chemex is not the most portable option out there. Its glass body makes it fragile and susceptible to breaking during transport. However, the Chemex is lightweight and doesn’t take up too much space, making it a suitable option for those traveling by car or on a short trip.
If you plan to take your Chemex with you, it’s recommended that you invest in a carrying case or a protective sleeve to keep it safe during transport. You can find these accessories online or at specialty coffee shops.
In terms of capacity, the Chemex comes in various sizes, ranging from 3 cups to 10 cups. If you’re traveling alone or with a small group, the 3-cup or 6-cup Chemex would be a good option. However, if you’re traveling with a larger group, you might want to consider the 8-cup or 10-cup Chemex.
Read More: Chemex Sizes
Kalita Wave Portability
The Kalita Wave, on the other hand, is a more portable option compared to the Chemex. Its stainless steel or ceramic body makes it more durable and less likely to break during transport. The Kalita Wave is compact and lightweight, making it easy to pack in a suitcase or backpack.
If you’re planning to take your Kalita Wave with you, it’s recommended that you invest in a travel case or a protective sleeve to keep it safe during transport. You can find these accessories online or at specialty coffee shops.
In terms of capacity, the Kalita Wave comes in various sizes, ranging from 155 ml to 500 ml. The 155 ml or 185 ml Kalita Wave will be a good option if traveling alone or with a small group. However, if you’re traveling with a larger group, you might want to consider the 300 ml or 500 ml Kalita Wave.
To summarize, both the Chemex and Kalita Wave have pros and cons regarding portability and capacity.
Price and Value for Money
Regarding a Chemex vs Kalita Wave, price and value for money are factors to consider. Both brewing methods require specific equipment, which can vary in price depending on the brand and quality.
In terms of affordability, the Kalita Wave is generally considered the more budget-friendly option. The brewing device is typically priced lower than the Chemex, and the paper filters are less expensive. This makes it a great option for those starting with pour-over coffee or on a tight budget.
However, it’s important to note that the Chemex offers a larger capacity, which may make it a better value for those who drink a lot of coffee or who want to brew for multiple people at once.
To summarize, the choice between Chemex and Kalita Wave comes from personal preference and budget.
Buying Recommendations
If, after learning more about the Chemex and Kalita Wave, you want to acquire one (or both) of these coffee brewers, please consider these recommendations.
CHEMEX Bundle – 6-Cup Classic Series
Chemex Bundle – 6-Cup Glass Handle Series
Kalita Wave Coffee Brewing Kit
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the differences between Kalita Wave and Chemex?
Kalita Wave and Chemex are popular pour-over coffee makers but differ in their design and brewing process. Kalita Wave has a flat-bottomed dripper with three small holes, while Chemex has a conical-shaped vessel with a single large hole. Chemex uses a thicker filter, which results in a cleaner and lighter-bodied cup, while Kalita Wave produces a fuller-bodied coffee with a slightly more delicate flavor.
What makes Kalita Wave better than Chemex?
This question has no definitive answer, as it ultimately depends on personal preference. However, some coffee enthusiasts prefer Kalita Wave because of its consistency and ease of use. The flat-bottomed dripper ensures an even extraction, and the three small holes allow for a slow and steady flow rate. The Kalita Wave’s design makes it less prone to clogging than the Chemex.
Which is easier to use, Kalita Wave or Chemex?
Kalita Wave and Chemex are both relatively easy to use, but some people may find Kalita Wave to be more forgiving. The flat-bottomed dripper allows a more consistent extraction, and the three small holes prevent over-extraction. On the other hand, Chemex requires a bit more skill to achieve a balanced cup, as the single large hole can lead to over-extraction if not properly controlled.
What is the best grind size for Kalita Wave and Chemex?
The ideal grind size for Kalita Wave and Chemex is medium-fine. This allows for a balanced extraction and prevents clogging. However, the grind size may vary depending on the coffee beans and personal taste preferences.
Can you use the same filters for Kalita Wave and Chemex?
No, Kalita Wave and Chemex use different filters. Kalita Wave uses proprietary filters that are thicker than Chemex filters. Chemex filters are made of special paper that removes sediment and oils, resulting in a clean and clear cup.
What are the pros and cons of Kalita Wave and Chemex?
Kalita Wave’s pros include its consistency, ease of use, and fuller-bodied coffee. Its cons include the need for proprietary filters and a slightly more delicate flavor profile. Chemex’s pros include its clean and clear cup and unique design. Its cons include the potential for over-extraction and the need for special filters.
I hope this article has provided helpful information to choose between these popular brewing methods. See you next time!
Chemex vs Kalita Wave, which brewing method do you prefer?