Two of the most popular manual brewing methods — pour over and French press — offer distinctly different coffee experiences. Here is how to decide which one suits your taste.
Pour Over
Pour over brewing produces a clean, bright cup that highlights the nuanced flavors of single-origin beans. Using a paper filter removes oils and fine particles, resulting in a lighter body with crisp acidity. Popular pour over drippers include the MHW-3BOMBER Elf Dripper and Meteor Dripper.
French Press
French press brewing uses a metal mesh filter, allowing oils and fine particles into your cup. This produces a full-bodied, rich brew with a heavier mouthfeel. It is forgiving of grind inconsistency and requires minimal technique.
The Verdict
Choose pour over if you enjoy bright, complex flavors and do not mind the hands-on process. Choose French press if you prefer bold, full-bodied coffee with minimal effort. Better yet — try both and discover your preference.
