10 Best French Presses in 2022 (Coffee Shop Owner-Reviewed)
If you enjoy bold, flavorful coffee, you might enjoy using a French press! This simple tool doesn't use paper filters, letting you taste the flavorful oils from the coffee beans. French presses are easy to use, compact, and don't require electricity. Plus, you can experiment with the grounds-to-water ratio, brew time, and water temperature. However, it can be tricky to find the best one for you since they vary in material, capacity, filter style, and cleaning method!
After careful research, Fellow's Clara French Press is our favorite due to its impressive array of functional features and interior non-stick coating. Check out the rest of our recommendations below, including glass, plastic, stainless steel, and ceramic options. Also, be sure to read our buying guide, including tips from a coffee shop owner, for everything you need to know to make a confident purchase!
Quick List - Top French Presses
Mueller
Best Sturdy Stainless Steel Model That Keeps Coffee Hot
Following a decade-long career as a designer/art director in the fashion and beauty industry, I found my new calling in a coffee shop in Japan, where I met my husband who is a barista. We now run a coffee shop together in the countryside. My knowledge and passion for specialty coffee continues to grow, and I enjoy trying new beans and methods every day!
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How to Choose a French Press - Buying Guide
Choosing the right French press for you depends on a few factors, like the filter, capacity, materials, insulation, and cleaning process. To learn more about each consideration, read on!
Pay Attention to Filters and Capacity
A French press consists of four main pieces: a body, mesh filter, plunger, and lid. It's important to consider the filter and body capacity.
A Good Filter Is the Key to a Great Brew
The mesh filter is attached to the plunger and rests in the carafe. You press the filter down in order to separate the grounds from the brewed coffee.
The filter should be firm and have a spring system that can tightly press against the sides of the body without letting any grounds escape. A multiple-layered filter has a better chance of catching all of the grounds. The filter's quality can be challenging to determine from the product description, so be sure to skim the customer reviews.
One thing to be aware of when considering a French Press is that unfiltered coffee contains substances that cause the body’s triglyceride and LDL cholesterol levels (ie; “bad” cholesterol) to rise. So if you have existing health issues, especially with high cholesterol, this may not be the healthiest way to brew.
The good news is that using a special paper filter or DIY’ing your own from cone filters in your French Press has proven effective in filtering out the bad stuff. Unfortunately, some units come with replaceable metal filters, which do not have the same cholesterol-filtering effects as paper ones do.
Larger Capacities Are More Versatile
In general, we recommend larger sizes unless counter space is a concern. A large press gives you the option to brew for yourself or a group. After all, if you just want one serving, you can use less water in a larger press. However, if you prefer something more compact, look for capacities less than 16 ounces.
Four ounces is considered standard for a small cup of coffee, but most American coffee mugs hold eight to twelve ounces. So, if you want two mugs of coffee, you should look for a capacity of at least 16 ounces. If you're brewing for a group of people, consider sizes over 30 ounces.
Keep in mind that the actual yield will be a little less than the listed capacity since the coffee grounds take up some space in the carafe.
Keep in mind that different sizes, shapes, and materials of French Press vessels will lose heat at different rates too, which in turn impacts the ideal water temperature for immersion.
Although it sounds counter-intuitive, you can try using a slightly cooler water temperature for a larger pot than you would for a smaller one. This is because the smaller container will lose heat faster. Also, regardless of what size you choose, it’s best to first rinse the French Press vessel with hot water to warm it up before adding your coffee.
Decide Between Different Materials
The material of a French press affects its functionality and durability. However, it can also affect the flavor of your coffee!
Glass Carafes Offer a Visual Experience but Are Vulnerable to Breakage
Glass carafes are excellent for visual people since you get to watch the entire process of it brewing and see how much is left. Many glass options also have measurement markings for easier brewing and serving. Plus, glass doesn't affect the taste of your coffee or retain flavors, giving you a fresh coffee flavor.
Glass French presses can last for a long time if handled and cleaned properly. For the best longevity, look for borosilicate glass, a type of glass that's stronger and resistant to thermal shock. However, even the strongest and thickest glass might break. If you have kids, pets, or are just accident-prone, you may want a sturdier option.
Or, you can also look for glass options with protective frames or shells to prevent breakage. Generally speaking, shells with more coverage offer better protection. Thankfully, most glass French presses have some kind of metal or plastic frame!
You’ll definitely want to invest in a reliable maker to ensure a high-quality, shatter-proof glass carafe. Accidents happen, so even if your carafe does break, a good one is generally easy to replace.
Glass doesn’t hold heat quite as well as stainless, so that’s something to keep in mind if you’re in a cold environment. For most people, it’s an excellent choice for a French Press!
Stainless Steel Is Durable and Insulating but May Impact the Taste
Most French presses with stainless steel carafes have insulating vacuumed-sealed double walls that help keep your coffee hot. Unlike glass, metal will only be dented if it is struck against something. Of course, dents may be hard to remove but it doesn't ruin its usability. Overall, stainless steel presses are the most durable option.
Depending on the quality of the stainless steel, you might get a slightly metallic taste in your coffee or have a harder time keeping it clean. We recommend 18/8 or 18/10 stainless steel that's grade 304 or 316, with 316 being the best at resisting corrosion and the least likely to impart a metallic taste.
To get the best coffee, it's recommended to preheat the press with boiling water for a few minutes in order to warm up the metal so that your coffee brews properly. You can do this with any type of press, but it's especially recommended for stainless steel models.
Plastic is Portable but Could Raise Health Concerns
Plastic French presses are easy to handle, retain heat better than glass, and do not break easily. They are also lightweight, making them the best choice for travel. However, plastic will also retain odors and flavors over time.
Sometimes plastic contains BPA, a chemical that can cause health concerns if consumed at high levels. Although the FDA deems it safe at low levels, you should consider using stainless steel, glass, or BPA-free plastic if you are concerned.
Plastic is durable and surprisingly good at retaining heat, which makes it a great option if you're enjoying it throughout your workday. Portable styles are great for enjoying a fresh cup of hot coffee wherever you go.
However, keep in mind that, unlike a regular French Press that you would decant into another container after brewing, these keep the grounds and hot water right in the mug that you drink from. So if you wait too long, you could end up with an over-brewed, bitter cup of coffee. Or if you’re not careful, a mouthful of coffee grounds!
Ceramic Presses Are Aesthetically Pleasing but Pricey
Ceramic may be a great option if you want something durable and aesthetically pleasing. Although it can break, it's not as fragile as glass. Plus, it has insulating properties and can help keep your coffee hot.
Ceramic is usually glazed with attractive colors, and this coating also gives it extra protection from scratches. However, ceramic presses are often handmade, so they can be quite expensive.
With both stainless and stoneware, you lose the ability to see inside the carafe during the brewing process. This doesn’t just take away from the visual experience of enjoying coffee, but it also inhibits your ability to see how far down your plunger is, how much coffee is left, and whether or not sediment has entered your beverage.
Check for Double-Walled Insulation for Heat-Retention
Many French presses have double walls for better insulation and heat retention. The inner wall is usually stainless steel for the best brewing experience, and the vacuum-sealed air between the outer and inner walls minimizes heat transfer. This prevents your coffee from cooling quickly!
However, hot coffee left in a French press can lead to oversteeping, potentially causing bitterness. If this concerns you, consider transferring any undrunk coffee to a thermos.
For Convenience, Make Sure It's Easy to Clean
French presses can be tricky to clean, but there are some features that make it easier. First off, not only do handles help you carry the press, but they also give you a better grip for cleaning. For example, a glass model without handles may slip out of your hands in the sink and shatter.
It's essential that all of the pieces come apart for easy cleaning, especially the plunger and filter. Some French presses are dishwasher-safe, but some may be damaged by the high heat. A dishwasher-safe option offers easier cleaning, but be sure to disassemble it first!
If you're concerned about breakage, handwash your press. Some vacuumed-sealed and ceramic options may not be dishwasher-safe, so be sure to read the manufacturer's cleaning instructions! The high heat of the dishwasher may ruin the vacuum seal or damage the ceramic glaze.
10 Best French Presses
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Fellow | | Best for Easy Brewing and Pouring | |
2 | Mueller Stainless Steel French Press Coffee Maker | | Best Sturdy Stainless Steel Model That Keeps Coffee Hot | |
3 | Veken French Press Coffee and Tea Maker | | Best Beginner-Friendly Glass French Press | |
4 | Secura French Press Coffee Maker | | Best Large and Sturdy French Press | |
5 | Cafe Du Chateau French Press Maker | | Best Dual-Filter Glass French Press With a Lifetime Warranty | |
6 | Bodum | | Best French Press and Mug Combo | |
7 | SterlingPro French Press Coffee Maker | | Best Metal French Press That Keeps Grounds Out | |
8 | OXO | | Best Lightweight Plastic Press for Traveling | |
9 | Le Creuset | | Best Ceramic French Press With Natural Insulation | |
10 | Bodum Chambord French Press Coffee Maker | | Best Simple and Classic Glass French Press |
Best for Easy Brewing and Pouring
Pros:
- Made of durable 18/8 304 stainless steel and BPA-free plastic
- Comes with an agitation stick to aid brewing
- The lid has a metal filter around the entire edge, so there's no need to line up the lid with the spout
- Interior has a non-stick coating for easier cleaning
- Double-walled to keep coffee hot
Cons:
- Everything but the mesh filter is handwash-only
This French press has many functional details to make brewing, pouring, and cleaning easier. Unlike other presses, the lid has a metal filter around the entire edge. So, you won't have to line up the lid with the spout! It also has an agitation stick and non-sticking interior coating, making it easier to remove grounds.
Overall, reviewers love the thoughtful design of this French press. Even though it's handwash-only, they say the non-stick coating makes it very easy to clean. They like that it has all the functional details they want, like insulation, an excellent filter, and easy pouring while still looking clean and modern.
MuellerStainless Steel French Press Coffee Maker
Best Sturdy Stainless Steel Model That Keeps Coffee Hot
Pros:
- Made of durable 304 18/10 double-layered stainless-steel
- Two-layer mesh filter
- Comes with a container for coffee beans or grounds
- Double-walled to keep coffee hot
- Dishwasher-safe
Cons:
- Reports that the arrow indicating where to line up the lid with the spout is difficult to see
This simple and sleek french press is made of 304 18/10 stainless steel, meaning it's durable and will hold up well over time. The body is double-walled, helping keep your coffee hot. Plus, it comes with a small container for taking grounds with you while traveling.
Some reviewers note that the arrow on the lid that needs to be lined up with the spout is difficult to see. However, most love that it's completely made of high-quality stainless steel, saying it's very durable and keeps coffee hot for an hour! They also confirm that it's easy to use and clean.
Best Beginner-Friendly Glass French Press
Pros:
- Made of borosilicate glass
- Carafe and plunger are dishwasher-safe
- Frame is made of durable 304 stainless steel
- Measurement markings on carafe
- Comes with an extra mesh filter, a cleaning brush, and a wooden spoon
Cons:
- Not insulated
This glass option has several useful features for beginners. The glass body has measurement markings, and it comes with a wooden spoon to gently remove coffee grounds. Plus, it comes with an extra filter and a cleaning brush.
Some customers warn that the glass needs to be handled carefully to prevent breakage. Otherwise, reviewers agree that it's easy to clean and well-made. They appreciate the thoughtful extras, especially the spoon, and clear instructions.
Best Large and Sturdy French Press
Pros:
- Made of durable 304 18/10 stainless steel
- 50-ounce capacity makes it great for groups
- Includes an extra mesh filter to keep more grounds out
- Dishwasher-safe
Cons:
- Reports that arrow on the lid is difficult to see
- Reports that it doesn't keep coffee hot as long
If you want a sturdy French press that makes a lot of coffee, this is an excellent choice! It has an impressive 50-ounce capacity, making it perfect for large groups or avid coffee drinkers. Plus, it's entirely made of high-quality stainless steel, so it should hold up to continued wear and tear.
A few customers note that the arrow on the lid that needs to be lined up with the spout can be difficult to see, and others note that it may not keep coffee hot super long. However, the vast majority appreciate its durable construction and easy cleaning. They also like its large size, saying it makes a lot of coffee at once!
Best Dual-Filter Glass French Press With a Lifetime Warranty
Pros:
- All pieces are dishwasher-safe
- Metal pieces are 304-grade stainless steel
- Carafe is made of sturdier borosilicate glass
- Two layers of mesh filters for better straining
- Comes with a lifetime warranty
Cons:
- Reports that the carafe can slip out of the frame during pouring
- Not insulated
If you want a glass French press but are concerned about breakage, consider this option! It comes with a lifetime warranty, and reviewers confirm that the manufacturer honors it. We also love that the filter uses two mesh screens to help keep grounds out of your coffee.
Some reviewers suggest being careful to hold the lid down as you pour to prevent the lid or body from slipping. However, most reviewers love that it's easy to use and comes with helpful instructions. They also appreciate the lifetime warranty, saying it's very useful for a glass French press.
Best French Press and Mug Combo
Pros:
- The body doubles as a tumbler with a flip-top lid for drinking
- Made of sturdy stainless steel with a silicone non-slip grip
- Double-walled to keep coffee hot
- Top-rack dishwasher-safe
- Available in different colors and clear plastic tumblers
Cons:
- Narrow body and flip-top lid may be tricky to clean
- Reports that grounds make it through the filter
If you want to take your coffee with you, this French press is an excellent option! The body doubles as a tumbler, allowing you to drink straight from it. Just press the plunger into the lid, flip the cap, and sip! Plus, the double-walled body keeps coffee hot, and it has a silicone grip for easy holding.
Some reviewers report that it's more difficult to clean due to the narrow body and lid, and others note that the filter lets some grounds through. However, the vast majority praise its clever functionality, saying it's perfect for work, the car, or traveling. They also like that it keeps their coffee hot for hours!
Best Metal French Press That Keeps Grounds Out
Pros:
- Two filters have a wider mesh edge to keep more grounds out
- Double-walled for better insulation
- 18/10 stainless steel is used for everything
- Includes two extra filters
- Dishwasher-safe
Cons:
- Reports that it's difficult to find replacement parts and contact customer service
This durable French press is made from high-quality stainless steel, and it's doubled-walled to help keep coffee hot. It comes with a two-screen system that includes a screened edge, keeping grounds out of your coffee. Plus, it comes with two extra filters.
A few reviewers dislike that it's hard to find replacement parts or contact the company if something breaks. However, most are satisfied with its durable body and ability to filter out coffee grounds. They also say it keeps their coffee warm for over an hour.
Best Lightweight Plastic Press for Traveling
Pros:
- The body and shell are made of Tritan plastic, a type of plastic that's more durable and BPA-free
- Dishwasher-safe
- Plastic is more lightweight than metal, glass, or ceramic
- Plunger uses a durable silicone gasket
Cons:
- Type of metal used in filter and plunger isn't specified
- Plastic may scratch or absorb odors
This French press is made of Tritan plastic, a BPA-free material that's more durable than regular plastic. It's also lighter than stainless steel, ceramic, or glass. Its plastic construction and lightweight design make it perfect to toss in a suitcase or take camping!
Some reviewers report that the filter doesn't catch all of the grounds. However, many confirm that the plastic design is more practical for camping or traveling than other types of French presses! They like that it's lightweight and easy to clean, too.
Best Ceramic French Press With Natural Insulation
Pros:
- Made of glazed stoneware that's naturally insulating
- Dishwasher-safe
- Plunger and filter are made of sturdy stainless steel
- Comes in unique bold colors
- Comes with a five-year warranty
Cons:
- Reports that it may spill if it's filled too full
This ceramic French press is more durable and insulating than glass, helping keep your coffee warm. The body and lid are made of stoneware, a type of stronger ceramic. Every piece is dishwasher-safe, and the filter is made of sturdy stainless steel. Plus, it comes in eye-catching colors, including orange and blue.
Some reviewers say it will spill if you fill it too close to the top. Otherwise, it receives wide praise for its aesthetic, with many reviewers saying it looks beautiful enough to leave out on the countertop. They also like its quality craftsmanship, saying the ceramic doesn't stain and keeps coffee warm.
BodumChambord French Press Coffee Maker
Best Simple and Classic Glass French Press
Pros:
- Glass body, filter, and plunger are dishwasher-safe
- Borosilicate glass is less likely to break
- Comes in several finishes
Cons:
- Not insulated
- Type of stainless steel isn't specified
If you're looking for a straightforward glass French press, this is a classic choice. The metal pieces come in several chic finishes. The glass, filter, and plunger are dishwasher-safe on all models, but the chrome and matte chrome versions are completely dishwasher-safe.
A few reviewers warn that the glass body can slip out of the frame, so take extra care while washing and handling. On the other hand, most reviewers report that it feels high-quality and looks stylish. They also appreciate that the filter does an excellent job keeping grounds out of the coffee.
Extra Tips for Cleaning and Maintenance
After allowing your press to cool, use your hands, a wooden spoon, or a rubber spoon to remove the grounds. You can also gently tip most of the grounds out first.
Use warm water and dish soap for quick daily cleaning. Then pump the plunger to remove excess coffee oils and stains. Use a soft sponge or bottle brush to clean the filter and rinse until the water runs clear.
For a deeper cleanse, disassemble the plunger. Make a paste with baking soda and water and clean each piece. For hard water buildup, submerge the pieces in diluted white vinegar and rinse. If your machine is dishwasher-safe, occasional deep cleaning may be a good idea.
For stainless steel, use filtered or distilled water since some tap water can be harsh or leave stains. For a deeper clean, use distilled white vinegar, olive oil, and two microfiber cloths. First, go in with the vinegar and a cloth to remove stains. Then, use the other cloth to rub in olive oil to protect the metal.
How to Make Perfect French Press Coffee
Here is an easy, step-by-step tutorial on how to make French press coffee. Thanks to French Press Coffee for making this video to help any coffee novice. On their website, you can find a more detailed guide as well.
Generally, coarser grinds are recommended for French press, but you can experiment with grind size and brew time.
Directions:
- Preheat your coffee press.
- Weigh your coffee grounds.
- Boil your water.
- Grind the coffee beans.
- Prep your french press.
- Pour the hot water and stir.
- Wait, letting it brew for one to eight minutes depending on your flavor preferences.
- Press slowly.
- Pour and enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions
Using a French press for the first time may seem daunting, but it's actually quite straightforward. To help you out, we've provided answers to some common questions below!
Why get a French press?
French press coffee is a great alternative if you like having control over your coffee. You can experiment with the amount of water and coffee grinds, water temperature, and brew time. Larger sizes are also versatile, letting you make large batches or individual servings of coffee without sacrificing flavor.
Since French presses usually don't use paper filters, you will also be able to enjoy the natural oils in your coffee. These oils offer a richer, bolder cup of coffee! You may get some grounds in your coffee, however. Some people enjoy the extra punch of flavor from the grounds.
French presses have some unique features that aren't true of other styles of coffee makers. They are portable since they don't require electricity, and they usually don't take up much counter space. Many also have insulation properties that help keep your coffee hot.
Nicole Michalek says, "Out of the many methods and gadgets available, coffee brewed with French Press has one of the strongest and most unique characters. It’s a great choice for those who are busy, as it takes such little time and effort and is relatively “hands-off” compared to pour-over.
It’s also one of the most direct deliveries of the coffee’s flavor and quality, which is attractive to those who enjoy strong and texturally interesting coffee."
How long should you brew coffee in a French press?
There is no set brew time for French press coffee, but there are some recommendations. Generally, four minutes is the baseline. After the first minute, gently stir the grounds and continue to let it brew.
However, some recommend brewing for six to eight minutes to get the most flavor from the grounds. You may have to experiment with brew time, especially if you prefer lighter or stronger coffee.
Brew time is also influenced by the grind size. A coarser grind is recommended for French press since it's less likely to pass through the filter. Since it's a larger particle, a coarse grind may need to be steeped longer. Medium and fine grinds will take less time to brew due to their smaller size.
For cold brew, the preparation process is similar. However, you don't need to warm your press, and you use chilled water. Let it sit for at least 12 hours before straining. Keep in mind that a longer brew time will yield a richer cold brew.
Looking for Coffee for Your French Press?
Now that you've found the best French press, it's time to get brewing. We've provided some of our favorite coffees below!
Top 5 French Presses
No. 1: Fellow ｜
No. 2: Mueller｜Stainless Steel French Press Coffee Maker
No. 3: Veken｜French Press Coffee and Tea Maker
No. 4: Secura｜French Press Coffee Maker
No. 5: Cafe Du Chateau｜French Press Maker
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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