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The Best French Press for Your Perfect Brew
Few things rival the pleasure of a well-brewed coffee made in a French press (or cafetiere). Its simple, hands-on process delivers rich, full-bodied flavour, making it a beloved brewing method among coffee enthusiasts. But with so many options available, how do you pick the best French press? Let’s dive into some of the top contenders and discover what sets them apart.
Just a note that in this post we are looking at larger cafetieres, around the 1 litre mark. You can get smaller ones too and a post with these will likely follow in due course. Just take a look at the tags in the right hand side at 'French Press' or 'Cafetiere' to see if it's posted!
The Top French Presses for Every Coffee Lover
You will notice that the French press I use is not on this list, this is because I've had mine for years and I do not buy things that I do not need, however, since then there have been many advancements in the French press so whilst I would highly recommend mine, it does not make the list.
If you’re looking for a lightweight, mid-budget option without compromising on quality, the BODUM Brazil French Press is a stellar choice. Made from heat-resistant borosilicate glass (heat resistant) with a durable plastic frame, it’s perfect for those who value simplicity durability. Its off-white finish adds a subtle touch of charm to any kitchen. This French press is ideal for beginners or anyone wanting a no-frills, reliable coffee maker.
Winner for classic cafetiere style!
For those who need more capacity and superior heat retention, the VonShef Double-Walled Stainless Steel French Press delivers. With its 1.5L size, it’s perfect for families or coffee lovers who can’t stop at just one cup. The double-wall insulation keeps your coffee hot for longer, and the stainless steel build ensures durability. Bonus points for the included 2-in-1 measuring spoon and bag sealing clip—small but thoughtful additions that elevate the experience.
Winner for all round functionality!
The Le Creuset Stoneware Cafetière combines premium craftsmanship with a touch of elegance. Renowned for its heat retention and iconic design, this 1L French press is perfect for those who appreciate style as much as function. The stainless steel plunger works seamlessly, and the stoneware build keeps your coffee warm while looking stunning on your countertop. It’s a more luxurious choice, but one that earns its price tag.
Winner for aesthetic!
The VonShef 8-Cup Cafetière offers a balance of practicality and aesthetic appeal. Its heat-resistant borosilicate glass carafe is encased in a striking copper stainless steel frame, giving it a touch of sophistication. It’s an excellent option for those who appreciate a modern design without breaking the bank. While it doesn’t retain heat as well as stainless steel or stoneware, it makes for a beautiful centrepiece.
Winner for affordable style!
Sturdy, reliable, and insulated, the Groenenberg French Press is perfect for those who need their coffee to stay piping hot. Its stainless steel construction is designed to last, and its 1L capacity is great for everyday use. While it doesn’t boast the same style or extra features as some of the others, it’s a solid choice for anyone focused on function over flair.
Winner for durability!
Metal vs Stone vs Glass: What’s the Best Material for a French Press?
When choosing a French press, the material can significantly impact your brewing experience:
Metal (Stainless Steel): Durable, long-lasting, and excellent at retaining heat. It’s perfect for frequent use and coffee enthusiasts who value practicality.
Stoneware: Beautiful and effective at keeping coffee warm, stoneware models like Le Creuset’s also double as stylish kitchen decor. However, they can be heavier and more fragile than metal options.
Glass: Affordable, lightweight, and aesthetically pleasing, glass French presses like the BODUM Brazil and VonShef 8-Cup Cafetière allow you to watch the brewing process. They’re not as effective at retaining heat and are more prone to breakage.
Best Coffee for French Press Brewing
The best coffee for French press brewing is one with a coarse grind, which allows water to flow through the grounds without clogging the filter. Opt for rich, full-bodied blends that highlight natural oils and flavours. Here are some popular options:
Medium to Dark Roasts: These work well because they bring out the full-bodied nature of the brew. Look for blends labelled as French roast or espresso.
Single-Origin Coffees: If you enjoy exploring different flavour profiles, try single-origin beans. Ethiopian beans often have fruity and floral notes, while Brazilian beans offer nutty, chocolatey undertones.
Freshly Ground Coffee: Invest in a quality grinder, like the VonShef Coffee Grinder, to ensure your coffee is as fresh as possible. Alternatively, many brands offer pre-ground coffee specifically for cafetières as below.
Best Ground Coffee for Cafetiere
If you prefer the convenience of pre-ground coffee, look for brands that offer a coarse grind. Here are some well-loved options:
Grind House Blend: A well-balanced blend with caramel and chocolate notes, perfect for French press brewing.
Bird & Wild Seasonal Blend: A naturally grown small batch coffee, great for a French press!
Café Direct Restore Roast: This lively roast is delicious and funds climate action, not only that but it's super affordable compared to other similar roasts.
Union Hand-Roasted Coffee: Ethically sourced, this range includes blends and single origins for French press brewing.
To see more on this it's worth looking at my Best Ground Coffee for Cafetiere post.
Comparison Table: French Presses at a Glance
Product | Material | Capacity | Features | Price Range |
Glass & Plastic | 1L | Lightweight, classic design | ££ | |
Stainless Steel | 1.5L | Excellent heat retention, includes extras | ££ | |
Stoneware | 1L | Elegant design, iconic heat retention | £££ | |
Glass & Stainless Steel | 1L | Modern copper finish, stylish and sturdy | £ | |
Stainless Steel | 1L | Insulated, robust, no-frills functionality | £££ |
What is a Cup When it Comes to a French Press or Cafetiere?
It can be disappointing when buying a cafetiere online when it says 8 cups and you are expecting it to hold almost 2 litres. It can also be confusing when a 1 litre model says 8 cups, but a different one says 6, or even 4 cups. With a french press a cup is roughly 120ml, this is because of coffee drinking habits in Continental Europe. An 8 cup cafetiere will usually give you 3 - 4 mugs of coffee.
How to Stop Your Glass French Press From Cracking
I was checking out reviews of my french press a while ago and was shocked to see that there were many one-star reviews, upon further investigation many were saying that their french press had cracked which was confusing to me as it is made of borosilicate glass. I did some further research and it seems that some people push down too hard or put scolding hot water in their french press. Like many home items, you need to take care of a french press, luckily I have written a guide on this: How to Properly Use a Cafetière: A Guide to Perfect Coffee Without Cracking the Glass.
Final Thoughts on the Best French Press
Whether you prefer the simplicity of the BODUM Brazil, the functionality of the VonShef Double-Walled, or the elegance of the Le Creuset, there’s a French press out there to suit every taste and lifestyle. Pair it with the best cafetiere coffee, like Grind House Blend, Lavazza Qualità Oro, or Union Hand-Roasted Coffee, and grind your beans fresh with the VonShef Coffee Grinder. Elevate your morning routine to barista-worthy levels. Choose your favourite and start brewing!
For more posts on French Presses we have plenty of these on this sites.
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