Is French Press Worth It? (The Pros And Cons Of French Press)

Last Updated on November 18, 2021 by John Moretti

As a coffee lover, having that perfect cup of coffee is the cherry on top of my day. Whether it is waking up to a good brew or grabbing one on the go, a good cup of coffee can make all the difference. So, if you are like me, you are probably wondering which methods you can use to help you attain that perfect cup of coffee. Let’s discuss, ‘Is the French press really worth it.?’

There are many pros to using a French press. Such advantages include a richer flavor, customizability, and low cost. However, there are also disadvantages to consider. Disadvantages may consist of a susceptibility to breakage, the need for monitoring, and unwanted coffee sludge.

One needs to take into consideration any potential pros and cons to make an informed decision. Therefore, we have listed three pros and cons to help you decide if a French press is the right choice for you.

Is It Worth Investing In A French Press?

making french press coffee

The french press, also called a cafetière, a coffee plunger, or a coffee press in different parts of the world, is a staple in many households. So, is investing in a French press worth it? Depending on what you are looking for – yes! However, we know that coffee, among other things, is a choice of preference. So we have gathered some pros and cons to help you decide whether a French press is right for you. 

Pros

Let’s look at three advantages of using a French press

1. Richer Flavor

The French press produces full-bodied and richly aromatic coffee – sounds irresistible, right? However, this flavor is a result of the Frech press’s mechanisms itself. The brewing method of the French press allows for maximum retention of coffee oils; The very oils responsible for providing a flavor-packed cup of coffee.

Let’s unpack the previous statement further. Drip machines, for example, use paper filters that filter out the oils and thus leave you with a weaker brewed cup of coffee. The French press, on the other hand, does not use such an impermeable filter. Therefore, the oils of the coffee are not removed.

In addition, the French press method of steeping adds to the flavor. Essentially, steeping is the mixing of dry ingredients with liquids until the liquids take on the taste of the dry ingredients. The long your coffee brews, the more infusion of flavors you will get.

However, be careful not to let your coffee steep for too long. Over steeping alters the taste, often leaving it tasting bitter and unpleasant.

2. Customizable Coffee

We are all unique, and therefore, because of this, we all have our own individual tastes and preferences. The customizability of the French press is perfect for catering to this need. In addition, you can easily adjust the strength of your coffee both by the amount of ground coffee you use and by the amount of time you allow your coffee to brew. 

The French pressor also comes in varying cup sizes, allowing you to make enough coffee for yourself or up to four people. And lastly, did you know that you can use the French press for purposes other than your daily coffee?

The French press can be used for other purposes like making cold brew coffee, tea and even frothing milk! However, the nitty-gritty details of using the French press for these instances will change depending on what you want to use the French press for.

3. Inexpensive To Use

This point makes many of our hearts sing. The French Press itself is relatively cheap compared to alternative methods of brewing, for example, espresso machines.

Additionally, there is no waste or extra add-ons that require you to spend money. For example, you do not need to buy paper filters or anything of the sort to use the French press. The only thing you need is some good quality coffee and water – and there you go! 

Also, to add an extra perk, the French press is small and convenient. Meaning it does not take up much counter space and is easily transportable.

Cons

Below are three cons to using a French press.

1. The Glass Walls Can Break

If your French press is made out of glass, be sure to use it with care. If you are not careful, the glass walls of the French press can easily break; For example, by accidentally knocking the glass against the table, etc. 

I personally had this happen to me once or twice. However, replacement beakers are for sale due to this very reason. Buying a replacement can save you from replacing the entire unit. Nonetheless, it is best to practice precaution.

2. Coffee Sludge

So, although we gave praise to the mechanics of the French Press, there is one downfall; The coffee sludge found at the bottom of the beaker. Due to this, the last portion of coffee found within the beaker is generally overrun with particle sediments.

I generally refrain from drinking the last bits of coffee as it can be quite bitter and unpleasant to drink.

3. Requires Monitoring

Although not much effort is needed,  it is not as easy as pressing a button on a drip machine. You have to monitor your coffee while brewing. Otherwise, if you leave your coffee to brew for too long, it can lead to a bitter or unpleasant taste.  

This is due to the steeping process mentioned early. Generally, an optimal point of flavor is reached after a few minutes. After that, too much coffee and sediments can infuse with the water, altering the taste.

Conclusion

The coffee produced from a French press is jam-packed with flavor and aromatic goodness. The French press is also inexpensive and portable –making it a good choice for many.

However, one must proceed with care when handling a French press as it is susceptible to breaking if made out of glass. Additionally, the use of a French press requires a little more effort than alternative brewing methods and has one flavor disadvantage when it comes to the product at the bottom of the beaker.