Why French Press?
The French press produces rich, full-bodied coffee by allowing grounds to steep directly in hot water. Unlike drip methods that filter out oils, the French press lets flavorful coffee oils through, creating a robust, textured cup. It’s simple, reliable, and makes excellent coffee.
Best French Presses for 2025
Best Overall: Bodum Chambord ($40-50)
The iconic French press that set the standard. Borosilicate glass carafe, chrome-plated frame, and reliable 4-part filter system.
Pros: Classic design, replacement parts available, multiple sizes, durable, excellent filter
Cons: Glass can break, gets hot to touch
Best Insulated: Espro P7 ($100)
Double-walled stainless steel keeps coffee hot for hours. Innovative double micro-filter eliminates sediment.
Pros: Stays hot for 4+ hours, nearly sediment-free, unbreakable, double-filter system
Cons: Expensive, heavier, can’t see brew level
Best Budget: KONA French Press ($25)
Affordable borosilicate glass press that performs surprisingly well.
Pros: Great value, multiple sizes, includes extra filters, heat-resistant glass
Cons: Build quality not as refined as Bodum
Best for Travel: Stanley Classic Vacuum Press ($50)
Legendary Stanley durability in a portable French press. Vacuum insulation keeps coffee hot all day.
Pros: Nearly indestructible, stays hot 12+ hours, perfect for camping/travel
Cons: Heavy, small capacity (48 oz max)
Best Large Capacity: Bodum Brazil (12-cup, $30)
Makes 51 ounces of coffee, perfect for households or entertaining.
Pros: Large capacity, affordable, dishwasher safe, BPA-free plastic option
Cons: Plastic versions feel cheap, cools quickly
French Press Buying Guide
Size Considerations
- 3-cup (12 oz) – Single serving, great for travel
- 4-cup (17 oz) – 1-2 people
- 8-cup (34 oz) – Most popular, 2-4 people
- 12-cup (51 oz) – Large households, entertaining
Material Options
Glass (Borosilicate): Classic look, doesn’t retain flavors, fragile
Stainless Steel: Durable, insulated, can’t see brew level
Ceramic: Beautiful, retains heat well, fragile
Features to Consider
- Filter quality – Multi-layer filters reduce sediment
- Insulation – Double-wall keeps coffee hot longer
- Handle design – Cool-touch handles prevent burns
- Replacement parts – Can you buy just the carafe if it breaks?
- Dishwasher safe – Some are, some aren’t
Care and Maintenance
- Disassemble and clean after every use
- Don’t use abrasive cleaners on glass
- Replace filters every 6-12 months
- Descale monthly if you have hard water