Chemex vs V60. In this article, we discuss the differences.
Two popular coffee brewing methods that often spark debate among coffee lovers are the Chemex and V60. Knowing the differences between these two is essential to deciding which suits your taste better.
The Chemex coffee maker is an elegant glass hourglass-shaped device with a wooden collar and leather tie. On the other hand, the V60 is a cone-shaped dripper by Hario, made from various materials like ceramics, plastic, or metal.
Get ready because we will go deep into exploring these instruments.
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History and Background
When it comes to brewing coffee, you might often find yourself choosing between the Chemex and the V60. It’s helpful to know their history and background to understand these popular brewing methods better.
The Chemex coffee maker was invented by Dr. Peter Schlumbohm in 1941. A chemist, Schlumbohm wanted to create a simple, elegant, and effective way to brew coffee. He achieved this by using a single glass vessel and a paper filter. The Chemex became an iconic design, finding its place in the Museum of Modern Art, where it is still exhibited today.
On the other hand, Hario, a Japanese company known for its range of high-quality glassware, introduced the V60 in the early 2000s. The V60 gets its name from the 60-degree angle of the cone-shaped brewer. This design, paired with its spiral ribs, allows for an efficient and even extraction of coffee.
Both brewing methods have their roots in scientific principles and have become popular choices in specialty coffee shops and home kitchens.
While the Chemex has a longstanding history that dates back to the 1940s, the V60 is a more recent addition to the world of coffee brewing. However, both have proven to be reliable choices for coffee enthusiasts who enjoy the experience of manual brewing and the clean, bright flavors these methods provide.
Chemex vs V60: Design and Materials
Chemex
The Chemex design is a classic and elegant combination of form and function. Its hourglass shape is made from borosilicate glass, known for its durability and heat resistance. This material ensures that your coffee remains purely flavored, as no chemical residue or taste alteration occurs during brewing.
To complement the glass, a wooden collar encircles the neck of the Chemex, ensuring you can comfortably hold the brewer without feeling the heat. The collar is secured with a leather band, adding sophistication to the overall appearance.
To summarize, the Chemex materials are:
- Borosilicate glass
- Wooden collar
- Leather band
V60
Hario’s V60 shares a similar minimalistic design philosophy with the Chemex, prioritizing function and ease of use. The most noticeable feature of the Hario V60 is its funnel design, engineered for optimal pour-over coffee brewing. This design encourages even extraction and provides you control over the coffee-making process.
The V60 is primarily made from heat-resistant glass, like the Chemex. However, Hario offers the V60 in various materials, such as ceramic, plastic, and metal. This lets you choose the best option that suits your taste and lifestyle. It also features a glass handle for easy handling.
In summary, the V60 materials include:
- Heat-resistant glass
- Glass handle
- Various optional materials: ceramic, plastic, and metal
When comparing the designs and materials of the Chemex and V60, it’s essential to remember that both devices focus on delivering quality pour-over coffee with effortless, user-friendly experiences. The main differentiating factors lie in each brewer’s aesthetics and material options.
Brewing Technique
Now, we’ll explore the brewing techniques for both the Chemex and V60. These pour-over coffee makers may appear similar at first glance, but their brewing methods have subtle differences that can affect the final taste of your coffee.
Chemex
To brew with a Chemex, follow these steps:
- Preparation: Start by boiling water in a gooseneck kettle to have optimal control over the pour. Place a paper filter in the Chemex, with its 3-layered side facing the spout. Rinse the filter with hot water to remove any paper taste, and preheat the carafe. Dispose of the rinse water.
- Grind size: Use medium-coarse coffee grounds for a balanced extraction. You’ll need around 42g of coffee for 700ml of water.
- Bloom: Add the coffee grounds to the filter and gently shake the Chemex to level the grounds. Slowly pour about 100ml of hot water over the grounds, ensuring all the coffee is saturated. Let it bloom for 30-45 seconds as it releases trapped gases.
- Main pour: Pour in a steady spiral motion, starting from the center and moving outwards, until you’ve added 600ml of water. Wait for about 20-30 seconds between pours to give the coffee time to extract properly.
- Final step: Remove the filter once the coffee has dripped, and enjoy your freshly brewed Chemex coffee.
V60
Here’s how you can brew using the Hario V60:
- Preparation: Boil water in a gooseneck kettle for precise pouring. Insert a V60 paper filter into the coffee maker, folding the seam to fit. Rinse the filter with hot water to remove any paper taste and preheat the vessel. Discard the rinse water.
- Grind size: For the V60, opt for a medium to medium-fine grind size. Aim for a 1:16 coffee-to-water ratio – 22g of coffee for 360ml of water.
- Bloom: Add the coffee grounds to the V60, leveling them with a gentle shake. Slowly pour about 45ml of water over the grounds in a spiral pattern to fully saturate the coffee. Allow it to bloom for around 30-45 seconds.
- Main pour: Adopt a 60-degree angle while pouring the remaining water through the V60. Work in a slow, controlled spiral motion, starting from the center and moving outwards. If desired, you can break the pour into sections, waiting about 20 seconds between pours.
- Final step: After the brew, discard the filter and drink your V60 pour-over coffee.
The Chemex brewing technique tends to produce a cleaner, smoother cup of coffee, while the V60 allows for more control and experimentation, which can result in a more nuanced flavor. Utilize these brewing methods to enjoy the best pour-over coffee experience with your chosen coffee beans and roasts.
Read More: Coffee Brewing Methods
Chemex vs V60: Filter Options
Chemex
Regarding the Chemex, you have a couple of different filter options available. The most popular choice is the Chemex Bonded Paper Filter. This specific filter is made from high-quality, heavy-weight paper that effectively traps oils and sediment, ensuring a clean and flavorful cup of coffee. These filters come in two shapes: a pre-folded square and a pre-folded circle. Both options are compostable, making them an environmentally friendly choice for coffee lovers.
Another option for the Chemex is a reusable metal filter. While this type of filter has a higher upfront cost, it can save you money in the long run since you won’t need to buy paper filters regularly. However, be aware that a metal filter will produce a slightly different taste in your coffee, as it allows more oils and sediment to pass through the filtration process.
V60
The Hario V60 offers a few filter options as well. The Hario V60 Paper Filter is the most common choice, which usually comes in white or natural brown. Both types have a similar effect on flavor, but the white filter is more processed and may have less of a ‘paper taste’ if rinsed before brewing.
Hario V60 paper filters are thin and designed explicitly for the V60’s conical shape, enabling an even extraction by allowing water to flow through the coffee grounds consistently. These filters are also compostable.
Reusable options for the V60 include cloth filters and metal filters. Cloth filters must be thoroughly cleaned after each use and may wear out over time. They allow some oils through but capture most of the coffee sediments. Like with the Chemex, metal filters produce a slightly different taste due to the increased oils. Also, they have a longer lifespan when compared to other filters.
Both the Chemex and V60 filter options have advantages and can affect the taste and texture of your coffee. Choose the one that best suits your preferences, and enjoy experimenting with different filtration methods.
Read More: Types of Coffee Filters
Brew Variables and Control
Chemex
With a Chemex, you have much control over your coffee brewing experience. The brewer is easy to use, and the thick paper filters help produce a clean and smooth cup of coffee. To get the most out of your Chemex, consider the following variables:
- Grind size: Aim for a medium-coarse grind for your coffee beans. Too fine of a grind can cause over-extraction and lead to a bitter taste, while a grind that’s too coarse may under-extract your coffee, resulting in a weak and watery flavor.
- Water temperature: Heat water to about 195-205°F (90-96°C). This is the optimal temperature for extracting the flavors from your coffee grounds.
- Pour technique: A gooseneck kettle with a long and slender spout is recommended for precise pouring. You should pour in a slow, circular motion to ensure even saturation of the coffee grounds.
V60
The V60 offers great control as well. This portable brewer uses thinner paper filters, which can result in a brighter and more nuanced cup. To get the best results with the V60, keep these factors in mind:
- Grind size: Aim for a medium-fine grind for your coffee beans. The V60’s design allows for a faster flow rate than the Chemex, so a slightly finer grind can contribute to better extraction.
- Water temperature: Like the Chemex, use water heated to about 195-205°F (90-96°C) for the best extraction.
- Pour technique: A gooseneck kettle is also recommended for the V60, as it allows you to control your pour’s flow rate and direction. Start by wetting the coffee grounds evenly in a circular motion and then continue pouring, maintaining a consistent flow rate throughout the process.
By paying attention to these variables and control factors, you can ensure great results with both the Chemex and V60 brewing methods, allowing you to enjoy a cup of coffee tailored to your preferences.
Chemex vs V60: Ease of Use & Cleaning
Chemex
Using a Chemex can be a delightful experience. The process is simple and elegant, making it a great option for beginners and experienced brewers.
Cleaning a Chemex is relatively straightforward. Since it’s made from a single piece of non-porous glass, you can quickly rinse it with warm water and gentle soap. Consider using a soft brush to reach the narrow bottom for deeper cleaning.
V60
The V60 brewing method also offers simplicity and ease of use.
When it comes to cleaning the V60, you’ll find it a breeze. Its ceramic, plastic, or metal structure makes it easy to rinse under warm water. You can also use a gentle soap or a soft brush if needed.
Both the Chemex and V60 offer convenience and ease of use, making them excellent choices for your coffee brewing journey.
Chemex vs V60: Flavor & Taste
Chemex
When using a Chemex, you’ll notice that the coffee produced has a clean and balanced flavor profile. This is due to the thick Chemex-specific paper filters, which effectively remove sediment and oils from your brew. The result is a crisp, sediment-free coffee with bright acidity and a light body. The Chemex extraction method emphasizes your chosen coffee beans’ delicate and nuanced flavors, fully allowing you to appreciate their unique attributes.
V60
On the other hand, when brewing with a V60, you’ll discover a more complex and robust flavor experience. The V60’s thinner paper filters allow more oils and micro-fine coffee grounds to pass through, resulting in a slightly heavier body and richer, more intense flavors. This extraction method highlights the full spectrum of your coffee’s taste profile, from fruity and floral notes to earthy and chocolaty undertones.
Size and Portability
Chemex
When it comes to size and portability, Chemex has a variety of options available for you. They offer brewers in sizes of 3, 6, 8, and 10 cups. Remember that the cup measurement used by Chemex is 5 ounces per cup. Although the larger models may be less portable, they are still great for your home or office.
The Chemex brewer is designed with a built-in carafe made of non-porous, heat-resistant borosilicate glass. The sleek, hourglass-shaped design adds a stylish flair to your coffee brewing routine and ensures that the brewer is easy to clean. However, due to its glass construction, you might find it less portable than the V60.
V60
The V60, on the other hand, offers a simpler and more portable option for pour-over coffee brewing. The various models available come in three sizes – 01, 02, and 03 – which allows you to choose based on your coffee brewing requirements. The size 01 is perfect for a single cup, while the size 03 can accommodate coffee for a group.
The major advantage of V60’s portability lies in its lightweight construction. They come in several materials, such as plastic, ceramic, and metal, making them easy to pack and take. The 60-degree angle of the V60 brewer offers a forgiving and beginner-friendly coffee-making experience.
Chemex vs V60: Cost
Chemex
When it comes to cost, Chemex is a pretty affordable option for those of you who want to enjoy quality drip coffee without putting a dent in your wallet. All you need is the Chemex itself and the specific filters it requires. It comes in various sizes to suit your needs, ranging from 3-cup to 10-cup models.
The price tag for a Chemex varies depending on your size, but you can typically find one for around $40-$60. Chemex coffee filters are slightly more expensive than those used for other pour-over methods, but they contribute to the clean taste of the coffee. Remember that the Chemex is made from heat-resistant, durable glass, so it’ll last you a long time if taken care of properly.
Chemex Pour-Over Glass Coffeemaker – 8 Cup
Chemex Pour-Over Glass Coffeemaker – 3 Cup
V60
The V60 is another affordable drip coffee maker that fits nicely into most budgets. Its price tag is generally lower than the Chemex, starting around $20-$40, depending on your chosen size and material. The V60 is available in a range of materials like ceramic, glass, and metal, which can impact the price and durability.
Like the Chemex, you will need specific V60 coffee filters to brew delicious coffee. However, these filters tend to be slightly cheaper than those for a Chemex. The V60 might be a perfect choice if you’re on a tighter budget, as its small size makes it ideal for brewing single cups quickly. Additionally, if you’re interested in a more portable option, consider the budget-friendly AeroPress as an alternative.
Hario V60 Drip Coffee Decanter, 700ml
Hario Pour Over Coffee Starter Set Craft Coffee Maker Dripper
Hario V60 Paper Coffee Filters Single Use Pour Over Cone Filters
Hario V60 “Buono” Drip Kettle Stovetop Gooseneck Coffee Kettle
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main differences between Chemex and V60?
The main differences between Chemex and V60 are their design, brewing techniques, and coffee filter types. Chemex has a stylish hourglass shape, while V60 is a conical pour-over brewer. Chemex uses thicker filters, producing a cleaner coffee with less oil and sediment. V60 uses thinner filters, allowing more oils and enhancing the full flavor of the coffee.
Which one is easier to use, Chemex or V60?
V60 is considered easier to use, especially for beginners, as it offers more control over brewing. The learning curve for V60 is shorter, allowing for adjusting parameters like brew time, water flow, and coffee extraction. Chemex might require more skill and practice to nail down the perfect brew.
How does the quality of coffee produced by Chemex compare to V60?
The quality of coffee produced by both Chemex and V60 is excellent but different from each other. Due to its thick filters, Chemex delivers a cleaner, smoother, and less acidic cup of coffee. V60 provides a brighter, more complex cup with highlighted flavors and a fuller body, thanks to its thinner filters and control over brewing variables.
Why do people choose V60 over Chemex?
People choose V60 over Chemex for various reasons, such as more control over brewing variables, faster brewing time, and a richer coffee flavor. V60’s cone shape also helps in even coffee extraction. Additionally, the V60 is generally less expensive and more portable than the Chemex, making it a popular choice.
What are the advantages of using a Chemex over a V60?
Chemex has several advantages over V60. Its elegant design makes it a beautiful piece for any kitchen or coffee setup. The thicker filters used in Chemex result in a coffee with less sediment and oil, leading to a clean, crisp taste. Chemex is also great for brewing larger quantities of coffee in a single batch, making it perfect for gatherings or entertaining guests.
Are there any specific brewing techniques unique to Chemex and V60?
Yes, each brewing device has its unique techniques.
For Chemex, it is essential to pre-wet the thick filter to remove any paper taste and ensure an even coffee extraction. After adding the coffee grounds, pour a small amount of hot water (around double the amount of coffee) to allow the coffee to “bloom” for about 30 seconds, releasing trapped gases. Then, pour the remaining water in slow circular motions.
With V60, you want to maintain a steady water flow while pouring. Start with pre-wetting the filter and allowing the coffee to bloom similarly. When pouring water into the V60, pour in slow circular motions, starting from the center and gradually moving outwards. Keep the water level consistent and avoid direct contact with the sides of the filter. This technique helps extract the coffee evenly and fully.
Wow, this has been a great article to write. It has been wonderful to explore these two coffee brewing techniques, from the history to materials to the cost. See you next time!
Chemex vs V60, which one do you prefer?
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