11 Best French Press Coffee Makers – Reviews and Buyer’s Guide

Easier than manual pour overs, more portable than automatic drippers, higher-quality coffee than capsule-based brewers: no wonder that the classic French press is still so popular.

Despite it being a simple and straightforward coffee maker, there are a few things that you could end up cursing yourself for overlooking. Let’s avoid this unpleasant scenario! 

In this buyer’s guide, we’re going to show you exactly what to look for in order to find the right model based on your caffeinated needs before introducing you to the very best French press coffee makers currently on the market.

Pressed for time? Let’s not waste any!

Choosing the Best French Press Coffee Maker for You (Ultimate Buying Guide)

Do you already know how to make French press coffee?

If you really want to make the most of your coffee maker, grab yourself a burr grinder to obtain consistent coarse grounds and enjoy the freshest flavors. Still, the freshest coffee won’t be enough to save the day if you pick a French press that you don’t actually get along with!

Here’s what you should consider.

Material: stainless steel or glass?

While frames and handles can be made of different materials, the body of a French press will either be borosilicate glass or stainless steel. Stay away from cheap plastic models, unless you value affordability and portability above performance.

This decision goes beyond aesthetics. Glass French presses are certainly more charming, convey a classic feel, and allow you to see the coffee while you brew it, but they won’t keep it warm for long. Only consider them if you’re planning on drinking or decanting your coffee just after brewing it. Also, borosilicate might be stronger than common glass... but it’s still glass, and accidents do happen (especially if you didn’t get to drink your first coffee of the day yet)!

Stainless steel models have a sleek and more modern look, but, most importantly, they keep your coffee hot for hours and are incredibly resistant. Basically, a stainless steel French press can be an investment for life.

Size - 12 or 34 oz?

French presses are available in lots of sizes, with 12 and 34oz being the most popular. The former can either brew a large mug or two small cups, whereas the latter could be enough to satisfy two thirsty coffee drinkers or a few friends, colleagues or family members. 

Be realistic about your coffee habits before picking one, though! Buying a huge 59oz French press ‘just in case’ when you only brew for yourself 99% of the time won’t do you any good, as having small quantities of coffee in a large pot will negatively affect plunging.

Filter

The one-of-a-kind French press filter is the element to praise for some people’s love for this brewing method… and to blame for some others’ passionate hate!

“ French press brew is much richer and has a weighty feel in your mouth when comparing it to pour-over.” - Blue Penguin Coffee  

This is because French press filters are designed to allow the coffee oils into your cup, but it also means that you could find some grounds in your mouth. Not a problem? Then your choice will be easier. Hate the sound of it? Look for dual filters that can trap even the smallest sediments!

Design

While finding a French press that matches the décor of your kitchen is proper #goals, there are some practical elements that you should take into account when choosing its design. Has it got an ergonomic handle that prevents you from burning yourself? Is that beautiful frame strong enough to protect its glass body? 

Portability

Durability is important if you brew at home or are part of the clumsy squad, but it’s vital if you’re planning on brewing on holiday or during hikes. In that case, pick a stainless steel model that can fit in your backpack. To enjoy the freshest coffee when brewing on the go, don’t forget to buy a portable hand coffee grinder.

Spotted a few that you could see yourself brewing with? Let’s ste(e)p into their reviews!

The Danish company Bodum then bought the rights to this iconic design, which would be a stylish addition to any kitchen counter. 

Rigorously made in Europe, its borosilicate glass body will keep your coffee hot for longer than the average glass French press, and its stainless steel frame helps shield it from accidental hits. 

The Chambord doesn’t disappoint when it comes to performance, either! Bodum’s patented safety lid prevents its content from spilling, while its three-part stainless steel plunger extracts the best flavors and—if using the right coarse grounds—ensures a smooth cup.

Interested? Thought so! Find out more about it in our Bodum Chambord review.

Bottom Line

The Bodum Brazil is a much higher-quality budget option than cheap French presses with a plastic body. It’s cheap, long-lasting, and has the capacity to serve you a carafe full of great-tasting coffee for years to come.

Bottom Line

The Frieling USA is more than a French press: it’s a wise investment for the coffee lover who’s planning on enjoying premium sediment-free joe for many years without having to worry about their faithful French press breaking.

Its signature design features a unique insulated plastic frame that protects the thick borosilicate glass body. Not only would it make a fantastic gift, but it’s also the most portable French press with a glass carafe. If you want some extra peace of mind, though, go for the stainless steel shell.

What we like the most about this frame is that it turns into a practical handle, making pouring incredibly easy and comfortable. 

Want more details? Dive into our KONA French press review.

Bottom Line

This French press is a great compromise for the coffee lover on a budget who has a soft spot for quirky designs (and hates sediments!).

Bottom Line

A creative take on the usual stainless steel design, the Bodum Columbia is a durable and practical French press to showcase on your countertop. 

Bottom Line

If you’ve fallen in love with the sleek cylindrical design of the Frieling USA but realized that it’s not big enough to satisfy the coffee needs of your entire household, the SterlingPro is your go-to alternative.

How did the hipster burn his tongue? He sipped coffee before it was cool… or drank it from the Coffee Gator French press a couple of hours after it was brewed! 

All jokes aside, the military grade vacuum-layered body of this French press won’t disappoint you: it’s 33% thicker and 20% heavier than most models. This doesn’t mean that Coffee Gator sacrificed aesthetics in favor of functionality, though! On the contrary, it’s one of the most stylish and colorful stainless steel French presses you’ll find.

Its portability, durability and the included airtight canister to store your grounds or beans make it perfect for frequent travelers.

Bottom Line

The best model for the wanderlust-filled coffee lover who cherishes aesthetics as well as performance.

Bottom Line

The best model for the wanderlust-filled coffee lover who cherishes aesthetics as well as performance.

Made of professional-grade stainless steel, the body of this French press is double-layered, 33% thicker and 20% heavier than most models to ensure the best insulation and durability.

The three-part filter is impeccable at trapping sediments when using coarse grounds, and, just like the Coffee Gator French press, it comes with a handy canister to carry your coffee with you when brewing away from home.

Bottom Line

With this portable model, Mueller has made stainless steel French presses more affordable.

Currently available in 9 finishes, this vibrant French press is ideal to try and match the accent color in your kitchen.

Its 18/10 stainless steel body is heat-insulated to keep its content hot for longer, and the cool-touch handle and knob ensure comfortable and practical pouring.

Its three-part layered filter even comes with a spare screen. Nice one, Secura!

Bottom Line

The Secura is a dreamy French press for those who prefer the durability of stainless steel but won’t settle for anything less than a bold statement.

Missing your flavored, favorite cup of coffee every time you travel?

Bottom Line

If you’re person often on the go, then you’ll love the convenience of the Bodum Travel French Press. It won’t crack or break easily either and will give you the assurance of long life – not to mention at an incredibly cheap price.

French Press: Frequently Asked Questions

Just in case you still had a few questions about French presses, we’ve answered the most common ones.

Who makes the best French press coffee maker?

The Danish company Bodum makes the best French press coffee maker by blending classic designs and modern innovation. However, the best French press model for you is the one that ticks all the boxes when it comes to your specific coffee needs, so make sure you go through our buyer’s guide before making your final choice.

Is glass or stainless steel better for French press?

Stainless steel is a better material for French presses because it keeps the coffee hot for longer and is much more resistant. Traditional glass models are popular because they’re more aesthetically-pleasing (plus, who doesn’t enjoy watching their coffee steep?); however, if that’s what you’d rather go for, you should handle your glass French press very carefully and drink the coffee just after brewing it.

How long does a French press last?

A French press can last years or even just… a couple of usages! Stainless steel models are more durable and can withstand the drops and accidental hits that would be enough to break a glass French press. Choosing a glass model with a good frame can help reduce this risk.

Which is better: French press or pour over?

French press or pour over aren’t one better than the other: it all depends on what type of coffee and brewing method you enjoy. French presses are more suited for coffee lovers who prefer rich, robust tastes and a simple extraction. Manual pour overs are better for those who’d rather drink smooth cups and get more involved with the brewing process

How often should you clean a French press?

You should clean your French press after each usage if you want to ensure the best flavors, as coffee oils that stay on its components go rancid real quick and, over time, will spoil the taste of your brew. Alternatively, you can give it a good rinse every time and a deeper clean once a week.

How long should French press coffee steep?

French press coffee should steep for four minutes. You can tweak this variable if you feel that your coffee is over-extracted (steep for less) or under-extracted (a little longer). Learn more in detail how long you should brew coffee in a French press.

How do you brew coffee with it?

All you have to do is to put coffee in the beaker, add hot water, stir and then press the plunger so that the grounds stay on the bottom. You should press the plunger after the grounds have been steeped for 4 minutes. This period is relative. Some people steep it for more than that, so it’s all about the taste you want to get from the extraction. Aside from brewing coffee, another clever use for the French press is for frothing milk if you do not have a frother. 

What type of grinder should I get?

It’s highly recommended you get a burr grinder. Fine coffee grounds will turn your coffee muddy because the plunger won’t be able to hold all of them on the bottom. They will subsequently spread all over the liquid.

Coarser grounds are much more indicated. Many people blame the French Press for giving off the murky liquid, but it’s not its fault. It’s the grounds. Coarse grounds will stay on the bottom – you will get clear coffee, so you won’t need to keep on spitting out grounds.

How much does a French Press cost?

It depends on the size. There are presses under $20 and presses over $50. The material, too, can influence the price. One thing is certain: it will always be cheaper than other coffee machines.

A Few Final Words

If you want a fresh cup of coffee in less than 5 minutes, then the French press is the way to go. It doesn’t require any getting used to, it’s extremely affordable, and it will probably last you forever if you take proper care of it.

Do you like French Press coffee? Let us know in the comment section.

References

1. Shu, T. (2017, September 21). Pour Over vs French Press – Our Take on the Age Old Question. Retrieved from http://www.bluepenguincoffee.com/pour-over-vs-french-press/

2. Solano, F. (2015, May 10). French Press – The History & Brewing Guide. Retrieved from https://www.perfectdailygrind.com/2015/05/french-press-the-history-brewing-guide/

3. (n.d.). 2017 Best in Category: Tableware, Serveware & Beverageware. Retrieved from https://homeworldbusiness.com/4. (n.d.). Our Story. Retrieved from https://www.espro.com/our-story