When it comes to making coffee, there are plenty of brewing methods from which to choose. Classic espresso, cold brew, pour over and plenty other methods. Another popular method is French Press.
If you want to enjoy fresh, delicious tasting coffee that won’t take too long to make, we suggest an investment in a French Press Coffee Maker.
One of the most popular appliances since first hitting the market back in 1929 the French Press is a convenient appliance for brewing coffee.
Also known as coffee plungers, French Press coffee makers are popular for the convenience they offer to prepare a fresh and rich cup of coffee.
The technology underwent significant modification to add simplicity to the process. Many models feature a stainless steel built with intuitive features to make the entire coffee making session less completely safe and hassle-free.
The big benefit to you and me is coffee that stays hotter and aromatic for up to 2 hours longer.
This makes it a must-have coffee maker for coffee lovers on the go.
In a French Press, you let the coffee grounds swirl around in hot water before pushing the plunger down. You only have to wait for a couple of minutes to enjoy a delicious cup of coffee. The instant brewing process is saves time when you’re rushing around in the morning.
But, while there may be plenty of French Press coffee makers out there, like everything, not all of the models are of the same quality. This handy guide will give you a basic overview.
*Notice: On mobile devices, scroll right to see entire table.
Want to invest in the perfect coffee maker? Here are some of our top picks:
Best French Press Coffee Maker
In our opinion these are the best french presses on the market:
Product Name | Our Rating | Check Price |
|---|---|---|
| Best French Pre | ||
| Frieling Steel French Press | More details! Click here | |
| The Bodum Columbia Coffee Maker | VIEW ON AMAZON | |
| Bodum CHAMBORD French Press | VIEW ON AMAZON | |
| Idylc Homes KONA French Press | good choice for travel or arthritic hands | VIEW ON AMAZON |
| GROSCHE Madrid French Press | VIEW ON AMAZON | |
Factors To Consider When buying a French Press
Material
The overall construction of the French Press is what matters. There are 2 main choices in types of materials: glass or stainless steel.
What’s a Borosilicate Glass French Press?
There’s something nice about seeing the coffee perform it’s magic inside and serving from a glass carafe. But the downside to glass is that it’s a fragile material. It needs careful handling to avoid breakage and thermal shock.
We recommend products that are made from borosilicate glass. This is a glass that contains around 15% borosilicate (think products like Pyrex) that give products the ability to withstand extreme temperatures, while still providing insulation and protecting the carafe from breakage. We need to be able to pour boiling water into the carafe without fear of cracking the glass.
Borosilicate is a safe choice for kitchen products. It’s non-toxic and it’s important to note that the production process doesn’t include using harmful chemicals or materials. (Borosilicate glass been in production since the 1800’s under the name Duran). Tried and tested with runs on the board, so we are confident to use these products. There’s an interesting article if you’d like to find out more (and that’s easy to read) on Borosilicate glass here.
The coffee maker should have a metal or plastic brace, which gives added strength and protection for pouring. A sturdy base strengthens the overall construction of the coffee maker.
Why choose Stainless Steel?
There’s no denying that stainless steel is among the most durable and visually appealing materials that you’ll find. Opt for a double-walled stainless construction to retain heat. This results in a better brew.
Also, check the quality of the stainless steel used in the manufacture of the product. Frierling or Bodum Columbia is our recommendation here.
Why is plunger and handle design important?
The plunger prevents the grounds from entering the mix.
Some plungers have multiple metal screens or a finer mesh screen to separate the coffee grounds from your morning joe. Some coffee makers also feature a basket design for better filtration.
The handle offers a steady grip and control while pushing the plunger down and pouring.
It should be made from strong, heat resistant materials that won’t be prone to breakage.
What size french press should I buy?
How often do you make coffee and how many people are you be preparing coffee for every morning? These are the questions to ask before buying a French Press.
You can choose from a variety sizes to cater for all needs. We suggest buying a slightly bigger carafe because you can always adjust the amount of water and coffee according to your needs. Most manufacturers quote cup sizes based on a small (ie 1 cup = 4 oz). Buy a larger carafe if you use mugs or large cups.
How much bench space do you have?
A bulky coffee maker doesn’t look elegant on the kitchen bench if you don’t have much room.
Some French Press models take up more space than others. Look for designs that don’t compromise on capacity and won’t take up too much counter space. If you’ve plenty of room in your kitchen, this won’t be an issue.
Cleaning
French Press coffee makers are easy to clean because there are very few parts. It’s worth investing in a product that’s easy to assemble and disassemble. Cleanup is a lot easier with a removable carafe.
Usual recommendation is to hand wash casing and handle with a soft cloth and often the carafe is dishwasher safe. Always check the manufacturer guidelines for the product you choose.
Is a French Press easy to use?
Wondering if it’s worth the effort to invest in the best coffee maker in the market? Yes, although here’s the thing, French Press coffee makers typically have a bad reputation when it comes to making coffee compared to other machines, because the French Press lacks the bells and whistles that Drip Filter coffee machines have.
But it’s not hard to get a great result, with a repeatable winning formula. It’s just a matter of understanding the steps and what’s happening to the coffee grinds. The post on this link explains how to brew a perfect cup and find the recipe that suits your taste.
What can go wrong?
Loose grounds float inside your cup because the plunger does not perform optimally.
Terrible tasting coffee
A better coffee maker will undoubtedly result in better-tasting coffee. This way, you’ll be able to enjoy your morning cup.
The product doesn’t last the distance
You’ll probably be using the coffee maker every day, so invest in quality. Opt for a durable model constructed using quality materials such as stainless steel.
Lid leaks/seal leaks
Nothing is worse than pouring coffee from a carafe with a substandard seal.
Always inspect the seal to ensure it has been properly positioned in the carafe before pouring.
Examine the coffee maker for lid leakages that can cause coffee to drip all over your bench.
The number of cups poured from the carafe is different
Simply paying attention to the cup size advertised can be misleading. Instead, take note of the number of ounces the cup can hold. By this I mean the assumption of the # of cups by the manufacturer.
For example, Bodum uses an assumption that 1 cup = 4 oz. You may prefer a larger cup or coffee mug, which means the # of cups you will get from a particular size French press with be less. You should allow for this when choosing a carafe size.
The coffee drinking temperature is not hot enough
Ensure the carafe is designed to retain heat to keep coffee warm. Unlike electric models, you can only rely on the temperature of the water to keep your coffee warm. Opting for a double-walled stainless steel carafe is a good option if you like to have several top-ups from the one brew. Check out Frieling or Bodum’s Columbia coffee maker.
Usage – where are you using the French Press
Are you searching for a French Press for your workplace? Or your kitchen?
If it’s for office use, multiple people will probably use the coffee maker several times daily. Invest in a more durable product with a large capacity. Consider a stainless steel carafe.
Tips for purchasing the best French Press coffee maker
Don’t throw away big bucks
Before reaching out for the most expensive item on the shelf, take your time to decide whether you need it. Opt for a middle ground. There are plenty of affordable products that offer brilliant results and we’ve highlighted these on coffeebrewinghub.
This is especially important if you’ve never purchased a coffee maker before. There’s guidance here on coffee making and product reviews to give you a ‘heads up’ before purchasing.
It may take a little time but can save you from a bad experience and buying a product that won’t serve as you hoped.
Using a French Press to brew tea
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Ut elit tellus, luctus nec ullamcorper mattis, pulvinar dapibus leo.
Best French Press Coffee Maker
Frieling French Press - stainless steel
About the product
Frieling is among the most reputable stainless steel French Press coffee makers in the market. This sleek model ranks high in all the factors we rate
- brew quality
- filter system
- heat retention, and
- product durability
Frieling uses a 2-stage filter that combines a pre-filter and a second, super-fine screen. This means you don’t have to worry about loose grounds floating around your mug.
The double wall combination with 18/10 stainless steel construction offers plenty of insulation. In real terms this means the coffee maker retains heat. And coffee stays hot!
Better heat retention = better tasting coffee = more flavorsome extraction.
It’s also worth mentioning that all of the components are stainless steel and have been manufactured in the USA to adhere to the best quality standards.
All the components are dishwasher-safe, so they can be washed in the dishwasher if preferred. Or simply wipe the outer with a soft, damp cloth to preserve the stunning finish and protect from smudges and scratches.
We recommend you use filtered water to reduce of scaling. Note: Using filtered water is always preferable to produce the best coffee taste.
This is what you're paying for
- 18/10 stainless-steel, double walled French press coffee maker
- Stunning mirror finish exterior that works well in any kitchen and will sit proudly on your dining table
- 2 stage filter system that uses a super-fine mesh filter and a pre-filter.
- Superior construction carafe retains up to 4 times more heat compared to glass
- 5 sizes - 8 oz, 17 oz, 23oz, 36 or 44 oz capacity
- Easy to assemble and disassemble. Dishwasher safe
- 5 year manufacturer warranty
Why we like it
That’s an easy one. Double wall insulation with a dual filter system is a winning combination.
Investing in the Frieling USA double wall stainless steel French Press, you’re buying quality and a product with longevity.
Bodum Columbia Coffee Maker
About the product
Size is a point of difference here. In comparison to other French Presses, there is the option to buy a large 12 cup capacity (51 oz). 3 cup, 4 and 8 cup sizes are also available.
The Bodum COLUMBIA French Press has a high-end thermal design that keeps your morning coffee hot.
A cool feature of the Columbia is that it has a unique safety lid, (it’s a patented design) to prevent spills.
An easy to use coffee press. All you have to do is add coarse ground coffee, pour in some hot water, and you’re good to go.
This is what you're paying for
- 3 part filter system for optimal flavor extraction
- Double wall stainless steel carafe gives added insulation
- Patented design safety lid for easy pouring
- Use to prepare either coffee or tea
- Size options - 3 cup, 4, cup, 8 cup, 12 cup
- Stainless steel exterior with elegant shape and finish
- 1 year manufacturer warranty
Why we like it
This is a good choice if you want a 12 cup (51oz) French Press.
Durable and low-maintenance, Bodum Columbia offers great value for your money.
Sit back and let the Bodum Columbia prepare the best coffee in the world for you and your friends.
Bodum Chambord French Press
About the product
This is the ‘cult classic’ Bodum Chambord. The popular 34-oz, 8 cup is a popular choice. Its also available in 12 oz, 17oz and 51 oz sizes.
The ‘simple to use’ time-honored design is a great option if you’re always up for a quick coffee fix in the morning. (By the way, it works well to prepare loose leaf tea.)
Priced under $30 (at time of writing)
It also includes a double filtration system which is impressive because of its low price tag.
The first screen is constructed from mesh while the other is made of plastic and it all works well to filter coffee grounds. It has an easy to grip plastic handle with a sturdy stainless frame to cradle the carafe.
Purchase includes a handy scoop. It’s easy to assemble and disassemble to clean and dishwasher safe.
This is what you're paying for
- HIgh quality borosilicate glass withstands high temps
- Classic French Press design
- Danish design from the respected Bodum brand
- Double filtration system
- 4 sizes - 12 oz (.35 l), 17oz (.5 l), 34oz (1 l), 51 oz (1.5l)
- Dishwasher safe and easy to clean
- 1 year manufacturer warranty
Why we like it
It’s a top rated product on Amazon, and for good reason. This is classic, original French press design at a great price.
An important technical feature, we noted, the plunger doesn’t hit the end of the carafe and leaves some space so that coffee grounds don’t over-compress. Over-compressing is the reason why some coffee grounds and tea leaves can give a bitter edge to the taste of the beverage.
A good choice if you want to use for loose leaf tea as well.
Idylc Homes KONA French Press
About the product
A solid and practical, easy-to-use style in a modern design. Idlyc Homes take pride in using the best quality materials for their products, and the KONA French Press is no exception.
The highest quality borosilicate glass is used in the manufacture adding strength, durability and shock-resistant qualities to the carafe.
And an effective 3-piece stainless steel filtration system works as it should to extract maximum flavor from coffee grinds or loose leaf tea.
This is what you're paying for
- Protective outer shell design that cradles the carafe
- Plunger knob is easy to grasp
- A large handle for a comfortable grip and easy pouring
- Borosilicate glass pitcher, resistant to cracks and chips
- Overall a little lighter in weight and easy to clean
- BPA free lid
- Stainless steel filter infuser system
- Sizes: 350ml (1 cup) or 34oz (8 cup)
Why we like it
Kona French press is a great choice for travel, a camping trip or off in the RV. The protective shell hugs the borosilicate glass providing a sturdy wrap.
The handle and knob are easy to grasp making it a good choice for arthritic hands or limited mobility.
GROSCHE Madrid French Press
About the product
Grosche may be relatively new company but its quality coffee makers allow the brand to stand tall with other companies that have been around for decades.
From humble beginnings in 2006, a premium coffee maker was born because of its borosilicate glass construction and chrome housing.
The sturdy glass provides excellent temperature retention to enjoy piping hot coffee without worrying about the glass breaking … or the coffee cooling down. The high-quality glass comes from a well-known company in Germany.
However, the stunning construction and visual appearance aren’t all that’s great about the GROSCHE Madrid French Press Coffee Maker. It has a high-quality dual filtration system, so loose coffee grinds don’t float around your coffee. The overall design of the carafe has been designed to retain maximum heat.
Products are designed in Canada and manufactured Asia, including Taiwan and China . Factories used are audited to meet compliance to strict environmental and social standards.
Customers will be delighted to know that the French Press is relatively easier to clean when compared to other models. The one-piece handle and housing ensure swift cleanup, as all you have to do is to remove the parts and rinse them. Furthermore, the lid and glass carafe can be easily cleaned using a little amount of soap and water.
Cleaning
The product is dishwasher safe however, the very nature of glass products makes them more vulnerable to being damaged in a dishwasher.
As there are very few components in the French Press, it’s very easy to take apart and gently hand wash to thoroughly clean. It’s quick and easy. For the metal items, the manufacturer recommends towel drying these immediately.
Sizes
3 sizes available from 3 cup, 8 cup and a large 12 cup
- 1500 ml – 51 fl oz (12 cup)
- 1000 ml – 34 fl oz (8 cups)
- 350 ml – 11.8 fl oz ( 1- 3 cups)
is don’t recommend that. Best of all, with the GROSCHE Madrid French Press Coffee Maker, you get your money’s worth. The durable and sturdy model is likely to last for years, provided you take good care of the product.
It’s worth remembering that since the carafe is made using glass, customers must take plenty of care in handling the carafe to prevent breakage. Some notable features of the product include:
- Durable Borosilicate materials that will last for years
- Multipurpose French Press which you can also use for preparing tea
- Dual filtration system that ensures you taste the authentic flavors of coffee ground without worrying about loose grounds floating inside your mug
- Sophisticated, minimalist design that you are bound to love
- Utmost satisfaction guaranteed as the brand offers excellent customer service
For more information about these products, don’t forget to check out their product reviews online. You will find plenty of Amazon reviews that will help you make the right purchase.
This is what you're paying for
- Dual filter system
- Premium borosilicate glass
- Stylish design
- BPA free
Why we like it
The story behind the brand. The ‘Safe Water Project’ is an initiative by Grosche with a mission to provide children and families around the world with safe drinking water. Products sold raise money to fund this project. In fact Grosche boasts that for each product sold, remarkably, ‘access to 50+ days of safe drinking water is provided for people in need’.
We also note that factories used in the manufacture of products are verified for social and environmental compliance.
Conclusion
Investing in a French Press Coffee Maker is an excellent choice for folks who’d like a quick caffeine fix in the morning without much hassle. Hopefully, this buyer’s guide has provided you all the information you need regarding purchasing the right French Press.
Good luck!
- Prefer delicious tasting coffee in a matter of 4 minutes. All you have to do is add course grounds, pour in some boiling hot water and press.
- Premium flavors as the coffee maker can extract acids from the coffee bean. This feature is perfect for someone who wants to buy a French Press to enjoy the authentic taste of coffee