Hario V60 vs. Chemex Showdown
Photo by @bygraceho
Comparing Brewing Methods
It’s time for a battle of brewing titans.
If you’re hoping to bring the best of specialty coffee right into your kitchen, two standout contenders are bound to grab your attention: the trusty Hario V60 and the elegant Chemex.
Let’s break it down, from brew times to grind sizes, so you can pick the perfect brewing method to match your style and taste.
V60 vs. Chemex: A Detailed Comparison
Both the Hario V60 and Chemex have earned loyal followings, and for good reason.
They’re icons in the specialty coffee scene, offering distinct flavors and experiences, but with their own unique quirks.
| Feature | Hario V60 | Chemex |
|---|---|---|
| Grind Size (Baratza Encore) | 15 | 20 |
| Brew Time (1 cup) | ~2 minutes | 4+ minutes |
| Filter Type | Thin, cone-shaped | Thick, square-shaped |
| Pour Control | Easier | More involved |
| Cleanliness | Moderate | High |
| Price Range | Affordable | Higher-end |
The Chemex stands out with its thick, square filter, stylish wooden collar, and sleek glass design.
It’s a bit larger and takes up more space, so if you’re brewing with a gooseneck kettle, you’ll need to get cozy with its wide spout for a steady pour.
The V60, on the other hand, is compact and sits right on your mug, making it easy to rinse and warm up your cup before brewing.
It’s simple, practical, and gets the job done with minimal fuss.
Brew Times and Grind Size
When it comes to brewing coffee, grind size and brew time are everything.
They’re the magic duo that can turn your coffee from ‘meh’ to magnificent.
The Chemex likes it on the coarser side, around 20 on the Baratza Encore, which results in a slower brew—about four minutes for a single cup, and up to six if you’re brewing for two.
Its thick filter slows the drip, catching more oils and fine particles, resulting in a smooth, clean taste.
| Brewing Method | Grind Size (Baratza Encore) | Brew Time (1 cup) |
|---|---|---|
| Hario V60 | 15 | ~2 minutes |
| Chemex | 20 | 4+ minutes |
The V60, however, prefers a finer grind—around 15 on the Baratza Encore.
Its sharper cone and thinner filter allow water to flow through faster, finishing up in about two minutes.
This faster brew time brings out a balanced, nuanced cup that many home brewers rave about.
Each method lets you tweak your brew time and grind settings to suit your preferences.
If you’re eager to experiment, the V60 offers more flexibility, allowing you to play around with your technique for that perfect cup.
Check out different Hario V60 recipes to explore the full range of flavors.
Taste and Cup Quality
Now, let’s get into what really matters: taste.
The difference between the Hario V60 and Chemex is like choosing between pie and cake—both delicious, but they satisfy different cravings.
The Chemex, with its thicker filter, produces a slightly cleaner, sweeter coffee.
It filters out more oils and fine particles, leaving you with a smooth and bright cup that highlights the delicate flavors of the beans.
If you’re into a lighter, crisper brew, the Chemex might be your new favorite.
The V60, on the other hand, allows more oils through, thanks to its thinner filter.
This results in a richer, fuller-bodied cup that brings out complexity in your coffee.
You’ll taste more of the subtle notes in your beans, making it a great option if you enjoy exploring different Hario V60 recipes.
| Feature | Chemex | Hario V60 |
|---|---|---|
| Filter Thickness | Thicker, removes more oils | Thinner, allows more oils |
| Cup Cleanliness | High (clean, smooth) | Moderate (full-bodied, complex) |
| Sweetness | Higher sweetness | More complex flavor |
| Ease of Use | Moderately intuitive | Needs a bit of finesse |
| Price Range | Higher-end | Affordable |
If you prefer a bright, clean cup, the Chemex might be your best bet.
But if you’re after a more intricate, layered flavor profile, the V60 has the edge.
Design and Aesthetics
Of course, design matters too—after all, brewing coffee isn’t just about taste; it’s an experience. Both the Chemex and Hario V60 bring their own unique style to the table.
The Chemex is an iconic piece of coffee equipment, designed by Dr. Peter Schlumbohm in 1941.
Its lab-like glass construction and wooden collar make it instantly recognizable.
Not only does it look stunning on your countertop, but the wooden collar also makes handling the hot glass carafe easy.
With its sleek, modern design, the Chemex is as much a statement piece as it is a coffee maker.
| Feature | Chemex | Hario V60 |
|---|---|---|
| Material | Glass with wooden collar | Ceramic, Plastic, or Metal |
| Unique Design | Bulging glass for liquid level, timeless aesthetic | Ridges for optimal water flow |
| Aesthetic Appeal | Classic, refined, and eye-catching | Modern, versatile, with various material options |
| Usability | Great for larger batches | Perfect for single cups or small carafes |
The Hario V60, by contrast, offers a sleek and minimalist design.
It can sit on top of your mug or a carafe, making it versatile and compact.
Its signature ridges inside the cone aren’t just for looks—they guide the water through the coffee at the perfect pace, ensuring a balanced extraction.
Plus, with options in ceramic, plastic, or metal, you can find a style that suits your setup.
Practicality and Ease of Use
When it comes to everyday use, both brewers have their perks.
The Chemex doubles as a brewer and carafe, making it a great option for when you’re serving more than one person.
Its thick filter is easy to remove and toss, and cleaning the glass body is a breeze.
However, it does take up more space and requires a bit more precision with your pouring.
The V60 is all about flexibility.
It’s lightweight, easy to store, and perfect for brewing a single cup.
The ridges in the cone help control the flow of water, allowing you to fine-tune your brew.
Plus, if you’re working with limited space or brewing on the go, the V60’s portability is hard to beat.
Personal Preference and Price
Ultimately, the choice between the Hario V60 and Chemex comes down to personal preference—how you like to brew and what flavors you’re chasing.
The V60 is an affordable, versatile option that’s perfect for those who enjoy tweaking their technique.
At around 20 bucks or less for a plastic model, it’s a solid investment for any coffee lover.
The Chemex, starting at about $40, is more of a splurge, but for those who value design and a clean, smooth cup of coffee, it’s well worth the price.
Plus, it’s great for brewing multiple cups at once, making it ideal for sharing.
| Feature | Hario V60 | Chemex |
|---|---|---|
| Brewing Style | Single-cup simplicity | Multiple cups, perfect for sharing |
| Design | Modern and compact | Iconic, timeless design |
| Filter | Thin, minimal oil filtration | Thick, high oil filtration |
| Taste Profile | Rich, balanced | Clean, sweet |
| Ease of Use | Quick setup and brewing | Slightly more involved |
| Price Range | Budget-friendly | Higher-end investment |
Both methods will elevate your coffee game.
If you’re drawn to the sleek look and precise control of the V60, go for it.
But if you want a beautiful centerpiece that serves up clean, sweet coffee for a crowd, the Chemex is the way to go.
Whichever you choose, both the Hario V60 and Chemex offer something special for your coffee adventures.
