A French press, also known as a press pot or plunger pot, is a classic and versatile coffee brewing device that produces rich and flavorful coffee. With its simple design and ease of use, the French press has become a staple in many coffee lovers’ kitchens. This comprehensive guide explores the top 10 French presses on the market, detailing who makes them, who needs them, who doesn’t, what they offer, and providing detailed analyses of each pick. By the end, you’ll have the knowledge to choose the perfect French press to elevate your coffee brewing experience.
Top Picks
- Take it Anywhere – Our rust-free french press-stainless steel-is durable for use while camping, at the office, or making coffee at home. The double-walled carafe on this MuellerLiving French Press keeps your coffee hot and full of flavor.
- Robust, Full-Bodied Flavor – This stainless steel french press makes 4 × 8 cup servings of strong coffee. Also use for brewing tea, hot chocolate, and for keeping frothed milk hot. A chart in the included manual helps you control coffee strength.
- Immersion Brewing – It’s simple! Just add coffee grounds then hot water. Stir it. Add the lid and the filter. Wait 4 minutes. Press the plunger to the bottom of the french press. Your hot coffee is now ready to enjoy.
- Easy to Clean – Our coffee press is dishwasher safe. The plunger and its filters are easy to disassemble, if you prefer to hand wash. We recommend cleaning the plunger after each use of this french press and coffee maker.
- 4-Level Filtration – No more grounds in the coffee! French press includes 1 coiled filter, 2 stainless steel screen filters, and a metal cross plate filter. Bonus – a stainless steel canister to transport your coffee grounds. Made in China.
- SUPERIOR FILTRATION: A solid filtration system in a coffee maker ensures a refined taste and robust flavor mouthfeel. Our 4-filter sieve system has an improved piston plate and 80 mesh filter that extracts the earthy, rich taste of residue-free coffee. This 1000 ml/34 oz beaker makes 8 cups of creamier & tastier coffee.
- DURABLE BOROSILICATE GLASS: The French press glass is expertly made to withstand rapid temperature changes. It is resistant to outside odors or chemical changes and maintains the original odor and flavor, allowing you to savor the natural coffee taste. The sturdy material and super-compact design ensure easy handling and durability in the long run.
- EASY TO USE: The French press comes with a coffee spoon and is convenient for quick coffee making. Brew homemade coffee in just four easy steps; add coarse ground coffee, add hot water and stir, wait a few minutes, and press to enjoy a refined flavored cup of coffee.
- VERSATILITY: The French press works great for coffee and is suitable for tea, hot chocolate, cold brew, cappuccino, or to make tea blends at home. It comes in handy to use at home, hostel, hotel, and camping sites or for parties, weddings, and celebrations. The compact design and ergonomic handle make it easy to handle & carry around. Plus, it is an amazing gift for coffee lovers.
- CARE INSTRUCTIONS: It is recommended to handwash the lid with a mild detergent & avoid using rough scrubbers to keep the finish scratch-free. The glass beaker, plunger, and filter are dishwasher safe.
- ☕️ Sleek and stylish design: Our glass coffee press boasts an elegant and timeless design that will complement any kitchen decor. Its transparency allows you to see your coffee as it brews, adding a touch of sophistication to your morning routine.
- ☕️ Pure and authentic coffee taste: Glass French presses are preferred by many coffee enthusiasts because they preserve the coffee's natural oils and flavors. Enjoy a rich and pure coffee taste that is free of sediment and grit.
- ☕️ Durable and long-lasting: Made of high-quality borosilicate glass, our French press is resistant to thermal shock and can withstand high temperatures, making it durable and long-lasting.
- ☕️ Easy to clean: Our glass French press is designed for easy cleaning. The glass carafe can be easily taken apart for a thorough cleaning, and certain parts, such as the plunger and filter, are dishwasher safe. Say goodbye to the hassle of cleaning other coffee makers and enjoy a hassle-free cleaning experience with our glass French press.
- ☕️ 4-Level Filtration: Our French press uses a 4-level filtration system comprising a metal mesh filter, spring disk, metal cross plate, and a final mesh screen to ensure sediment-free coffee.
What is a French Press?
A French press is a cylindrical glass or stainless steel container with a plunger and filter assembly. To brew coffee using a French press, coarsely ground coffee is steeped in hot water for several minutes before being pressed down with the plunger, separating the grounds from the brewed coffee.
Major French Press Manufacturers
- Bodum:
- Overview: Bodum is a well-known Danish-Swiss kitchenware brand that produces a wide range of coffee and tea brewing equipment, including French presses.
- Popular Models: Bodum Chambord, Bodum Brazil, Bodum Columbia.
- Frieling:
- Overview: Frieling is a German kitchenware company specializing in high-quality stainless steel products, including French presses.
- Popular Models: Frieling Double-Wall, Frieling Brushed Stainless Steel.
- Espro:
- Overview: Espro is a Canadian company known for its innovative coffee and tea brewing equipment, with a focus on precision and quality.
- Popular Models: Espro P7, Espro P5, Espro Travel Press.
- SterlingPro:
- Overview: SterlingPro is a manufacturer of affordable yet high-quality French presses, known for their durability and reliability.
- Popular Models: SterlingPro Double-Wall Stainless Steel.
- Grosche:
- Overview: Grosche is a Canadian company dedicated to providing sustainable and ethically sourced coffee and tea products, including French presses.
- Popular Models: Grosche Madrid, Grosche Lisbon, Grosche Basel.
- Coffee Gator:
- Overview: Coffee Gator is a British brand that focuses on creating innovative and stylish coffee brewing equipment, including French presses.
- Popular Models: Coffee Gator French Press, Coffee Gator Insulated French Press.
- Bialetti:
- Overview: Bialetti is an Italian brand known for its iconic Moka pots, but it also offers French presses known for their quality and design.
- Popular Models: Bialetti Preziosa, Bialetti Simplicity.
- Planetary Design:
- Overview: Planetary Design is an American company specializing in durable and versatile coffee and tea brewing equipment, including French presses.
- Popular Models: Planetary Design Table Top French Press, Planetary Design Double Shot.
- Hario:
- Overview: Hario is a Japanese company renowned for its high-quality glassware and coffee brewing equipment, including French presses.
- Popular Models: Hario Olive Wood French Press, Hario Double Glass French Press.
- Le Creuset:
- Overview: Le Creuset is a French cookware manufacturer known for its colorful and durable cast iron cookware, but it also offers French presses.
- Popular Models: Le Creuset Stoneware French Press, Le Creuset Stainless Steel French Press.
Who Needs a French Press?
French presses are suitable for various individuals and lifestyles, including:
- Coffee Enthusiasts:
- Needs: The desire to brew high-quality coffee with full-bodied flavor and aroma.
- Ideal French Presses: Versatile models that offer precision and control over the brewing process.
- Home Baristas:
- Needs: The ability to experiment with different coffee beans and brewing techniques.
- Ideal French Presses: Durable models with quality filters and heat retention properties.
- Minimalists:
- Needs: A simple and straightforward coffee brewing method without the need for electricity or additional accessories.
- Ideal French Presses: Classic glass or stainless steel models with a timeless design.
- Travelers:
- Needs: Portable coffee brewing options for enjoying freshly brewed coffee on the go.
- Ideal French Presses: Compact and durable models designed for travel, such as insulated or shatterproof versions.
- Environmentally Conscious Consumers:
- Needs: Sustainable and eco-friendly coffee brewing solutions that minimize waste.
- Ideal French Presses: Brands that prioritize sustainable materials and ethical manufacturing processes.
Who Doesn’t Need a French Press?
While French presses offer numerous benefits, they may not be suitable for everyone:
- Individuals with Limited Time:
- Description: Those who prefer a quicker brewing method or are always on the go.
- Alternatives: Single-serve coffee makers, espresso machines, or pour-over setups for faster brewing.
- Espresso Lovers:
- Description: Individuals who prefer espresso-based drinks over brewed coffee.
- Alternatives: Espresso machines or Moka pots for brewing concentrated coffee shots.
- Minimalist Kitchens:
- Description: Those with limited countertop or storage space.
- Alternatives: Compact coffee brewing methods like pour-over cones or AeroPresses that take up less space.
- Budget-Conscious Consumers:
- Description: Those looking for more affordable coffee brewing options.
- Alternatives: Budget-friendly French press models or other manual brewing methods like pour-over or AeroPress.
- Individuals with Specific Coffee Preferences:
- Description: Those who prefer specific coffee extraction methods or flavors.
- Alternatives: Coffee brewing methods that offer more control over variables like grind size, water temperature, and extraction time.
What Do French Presses Offer?
French presses provide a range of benefits, including:
- Full-Bodied Flavor:
- Benefit: French presses allow coffee grounds to steep in hot water, extracting oils and flavors for a rich and full-bodied cup of coffee.
- Customization:
- Benefit: Users can control variables such as grind size, water temperature, and steeping time to tailor the coffee to their taste preferences.
- Portability:
- Benefit: French presses are portable and versatile, making them suitable for home use, travel, camping, or outdoor activities.
- Simplicity:
- Benefit: French presses have a simple and intuitive design, requiring minimal equipment and no electricity to brew delicious coffee.
- Versatility:
- Benefit: French presses can brew various coffee styles, from traditional brewed coffee to cold brew or even tea infusions.
- Environmental Friendliness:
Benefit: French presses produce minimal waste, making them an eco-friendly choice compared to single-use coffee pods or paper filters.
- Durability:
- Benefit: French presses are typically made from sturdy materials like glass, stainless steel, or BPA-free plastic, ensuring long-lasting performance with proper care.
- Heat Retention:
- Benefit: Double-wall or insulated French presses can maintain coffee temperature for longer periods, allowing users to enjoy hot coffee over time.
- Aesthetics:
- Benefit: French presses come in a variety of designs, colors, and materials, allowing users to choose one that complements their kitchen decor or personal style.
Best French Presses
1. Bodum Chambord French Press
Overview: The Bodum Chambord is a classic and iconic French press known for its elegant design, durable construction, and reliable performance. It features a borosilicate glass carafe encased in a stainless steel frame with a patented safety lid.
Manufacturer: Bodum is a Danish-Swiss kitchenware brand known for its innovative and stylish coffee and tea brewing equipment, including French presses.
Target Audience:
- Who Needs It: Coffee enthusiasts, minimalist kitchens, and those seeking a timeless and reliable French press for daily use.
- Who Doesn’t Need It: Travelers or individuals looking for a more budget-friendly option.
Features and Analysis:
- Materials: Borosilicate glass carafe with a stainless steel frame and plunger assembly for durability and heat retention.
- Capacity: Available in various sizes, from 3 to 12 cups, catering to different brewing preferences and household sizes.
- Design: Classic and elegant design with a simple and user-friendly brewing process.
- Filter: Stainless steel mesh filter with a spiral plate ensures even extraction and traps coffee grounds for a sediment-free cup.
- Safety: Patented safety lid prevents splashing and potential burns while pouring.
- Pros: Timeless design, durable construction, easy to use and clean.
- Cons: Glass carafe is susceptible to breakage, especially if not handled carefully.
2. Frieling Double-Wall Stainless Steel French Press
Overview: The Frieling Double-Wall French Press is a high-end coffee brewing device known for its premium stainless steel construction, double-wall insulation, and superior heat retention properties. It features a patented dual filtration system for a clean and flavorful brew.
Manufacturer: Frieling is a German kitchenware company specializing in high-quality stainless steel products, known for their durability and reliability.
Target Audience:
- Who Needs It: Coffee enthusiasts, minimalist kitchens, and those seeking a durable and insulated French press for hot coffee throughout the day.
- Who Doesn’t Need It: Budget-conscious consumers or those looking for a more traditional glass French press.
Features and Analysis:
- Materials: 18/10 stainless steel construction with a double-wall design for heat retention and durability.
- Insulation: Double-wall insulation keeps coffee hot for longer periods without external heat sources.
- Filtration System: Patented dual filtration system with a pre-filter and super-fine mesh filter ensures a clean and sediment-free brew.
- Capacity: Available in various sizes, from 8 to 44 ounces, catering to different brewing preferences and serving sizes.
- Design: Sleek and modern design with a brushed stainless steel finish and ergonomic handle.
- Pros: Durable construction, excellent heat retention, easy to clean, no risk of breakage.
- Cons: Higher price point compared to glass French presses, heavier and less portable.
3. Espro P7 Stainless Steel French Press
Overview: The Espro P7 French Press is a premium coffee brewing device known for its innovative design, precise filtration, and superior coffee extraction. It features patented double micro-filters for a grit-free cup of coffee and a durable stainless steel construction.
Manufacturer: Espro is a Canadian company known for its innovative coffee and tea brewing equipment, with a focus on precision and quality.
Target Audience:
- Who Needs It: Coffee aficionados, home baristas, and those seeking a French press with professional-grade filtration and precision.
- Who Doesn’t Need It: Casual coffee drinkers or those on a tight budget.
Features and Analysis:
- Filtration System: Patented double micro-filters with a silicone seal ensure precise filtration and prevent coffee grounds from entering the cup.
- Materials: 18/10 stainless steel construction with a mirror finish and durable design.
- Insulation: Double-wall vacuum insulation keeps coffee hot for hours without external heat sources.
- Capacity: Available in various sizes, from 18 to 32 ounces, catering to different brewing preferences and serving sizes.
- Design: Sleek and modern design with a polished stainless steel finish and ergonomic handle.
- Pros: Superior filtration, durable construction, excellent heat retention, ergonomic handle.
- Cons: Higher price point, heavier and less portable compared to glass French presses.
4. SterlingPro Double-Wall Stainless Steel French Press
Overview: The SterlingPro Double-Wall French Press is a budget-friendly yet high-quality coffee brewing device known for its double-wall construction, durable design, and large capacity. It features a dual filtration system and a brushed stainless steel exterior.
Manufacturer: SterlingPro is a manufacturer of affordable yet high-quality French presses, known for their durability and reliability.
Target Audience:
- Who Needs It: Budget-conscious consumers, large households, and those seeking a durable and insulated French press without breaking the bank.
- Who Doesn’t Need It: Coffee connoisseurs or those seeking a more premium brewing experience.
Features and Analysis:
- Materials: 18/10 stainless steel construction with a double-wall design for durability and insulation.
- Insulation: Double-wall construction keeps coffee hot for longer periods without external heat sources.
- Filtration System: Dual screens system with stainless steel mesh filters ensures a smooth and grit-free cup of coffee.
- Capacity: Large capacity options, ranging from 17 to 51 ounces, suitable for brewing multiple servings.
- Design: Simple and functional design with a brushed stainless steel finish and ergonomic handle.
- Pros: Affordable price point, durable construction, large capacity options, easy to clean.
- Cons: Less premium compared to other stainless steel French presses, may not retain heat as effectively as higher-end models.
5. Grosche Madrid French Press
Overview: The Grosche Madrid French Press is a stylish and eco-friendly coffee brewing device known for its borosilicate glass construction, bamboo lid, and chrome-plated frame. It features a dual filter system and a large capacity suitable for serving multiple cups of coffee.
Manufacturer: Grosche is a Canadian company dedicated to providing sustainable and ethically sourced coffee and tea products, including French presses.
Target Audience:
- Who Needs It: Eco-conscious consumers, minimalist kitchens, and those seeking a stylish and sustainable French press.
- Who Doesn’t Need It: Individuals looking for a more budget-friendly option or those who prefer stainless steel construction.
Features and Analysis:
- Materials: Borosilicate glass carafe with a bamboo lid and chrome-plated stainless steel frame for a stylish and eco-friendly design.
- Filtration System: Dual stainless steel filters ensure a smooth and sediment-free cup of coffee without grounds or residue.
- Capacity: Available in various sizes, from 11 to 51 ounces, catering to different brewing preferences and serving sizes.
- Design: Modern and elegant design with a bamboo lid and handle, complemented by a chrome-plated frame.
- Versatility: Suitable for brewing coffee, tea, or even cold brew, providing versatility for different preferences.
- Pros: Stylish and eco-friendly design, dual filtration system, large capacity options, easy to clean.
- Cons: Glass carafe may be prone to breakage if not handled carefully, less heat retention compared to insulated models.
6. Coffee Gator Insulated French Press
Overview: The Coffee Gator Insulated French Press is a premium coffee brewing device known for its double-wall insulation, stainless steel construction, and innovative features. It features a precision-plunger system and a vacuum-layered design for maximum heat retention.
Manufacturer: Coffee Gator is a British brand that focuses on creating innovative and stylish coffee brewing equipment, including French presses.
Target Audience:
- Who Needs It: Coffee enthusiasts, travelers, and those seeking a durable and insulated French press for hot coffee on the go.
- Who Doesn’t Need It: Individuals looking for a budget-friendly option or those who prefer glass carafes.
Features and Analysis:
- Insulation: Double-wall vacuum insulation keeps coffee hot for hours without external heat sources, making it ideal for travel or outdoor use.
- Materials: 304 stainless steel construction with a rust-resistant finish and durable design.
- Filtration System: Precision-plunger system with a stainless steel mesh filter ensures smooth and sediment-free coffee extraction.
- Capacity: Available in various sizes, from 14 to 34 ounces, catering to different brewing preferences and serving sizes.
- Design: Sleek and modern design with a brushed stainless steel finish and ergonomic handle.
- Innovative Features: Integrated timing device and a travel canister for convenience and portability.
- Pros: Excellent heat retention, durable construction, innovative features, portable design.
- Cons: Higher price point compared to other stainless steel French presses, heavier and less portable than glass models.
7. Bialetti Preziosa French Press
Overview: The Bialetti Preziosa French Press is an elegant and functional coffee brewing device known for its stainless steel construction, heat-resistant borosilicate glass, and ergonomic handle. It features a classic plunger system and a contemporary design.
Manufacturer: Bialetti is an Italian brand known for its iconic Moka pots, but it also offers French presses known for their quality and design.
Target Audience:
- Who Needs It: Coffee enthusiasts, minimalist kitchens, and those seeking a stylish and functional French press for daily use.
- Who Doesn’t Need It: Budget-conscious consumers or those who prefer larger capacity options.
Features and Analysis:
- Materials: Heat-resistant borosilicate glass carafe with a stainless steel frame and plunger assembly for durability and heat retention.
- Filtration System: Stainless steel mesh filter ensures smooth and sediment-free coffee extraction, providing a clean cup of coffee.
- Capacity: Available in various sizes, from 8 to 34 ounces, catering to different brewing preferences and serving sizes.
- Design: Elegant and contemporary design with a brushed stainless steel finish and ergonomic handle.
- Safety: Heat-resistant handle and knob for safe and comfortable pouring.
- Pros: Stylish and functional design, durable construction, easy to use and clean.
- Cons: Glass carafe may be prone to breakage if not handled carefully, less heat retention compared to insulated models.
8. Planetary Design Table Top French Press
Overview: The Planetary Design Table Top French Press is a rugged and durable coffee brewing device known for its double-wall construction, stainless steel design, and innovative features. It features a patented plunger system and a vacuum-sealed design for maximum heat retention.
Manufacturer: Planetary Design is an American company specializing in durable and versatile coffee and tea brewing equipment, including French presses.
Target Audience:
- Who Needs It: Outdoor enthusiasts, adventurers, and those seeking a rugged and portable French press for camping or travel.
- Who Doesn’t Need It: Individuals looking for a budget-friendly option or those who prefer glass carafes.
Features and Analysis:
- Durability: Double-wall stainless steel construction with a rugged design ensures durability and reliability in outdoor environments.
- Insulation: Vacuum-sealed design keeps coffee hot for hours without external heat sources, making it ideal for camping or travel.
- Filtration System: Patented plunger system with a stainless steel mesh filter ensures smooth and sediment-free coffee extraction.
- Capacity: Available in various sizes, from 20 to 48 ounces, catering to different brewing preferences and serving sizes.
- Design: Rugged and functional design with a brushed stainless steel finish and ergonomic handle.
- Portability: Lightweight and compact design makes it easy to pack and transport for outdoor adventures.
- Pros: Rugged and durable construction, excellent heat retention, portable design, easy to clean.
- Cons: Higher price point compared to other stainless steel French presses, heavier and less portable than glass models.
9. Hario Double Glass French Press
Overview: The Hario Double Glass French Press is an elegant and minimalist coffee brewing device known for its double-wall glass construction, stainless steel plunger, and heat-resistant design. It features a simple and functional design with a large capacity.
Manufacturer: Hario is a Japanese company renowned for its high-quality glassware and coffee brewing equipment, including French presses.
Target Audience:
- Who Needs It: Coffee enthusiasts, minimalist kitchens, and those seeking a stylish and functional French press with a glass carafe.
- Who Doesn’t Need It: Individuals looking for a more budget-friendly option or those concerned about the fragility of glass carafes.
Features and Analysis:
- Materials: Double-wall borosilicate glass construction with a stainless steel plunger and lid for durability and heat resistance.
- Insulation: Double-wall design provides insulation to keep coffee hot while remaining cool to the touch on the exterior.
- Filtration System: Stainless steel mesh filter ensures a smooth and sediment-free coffee extraction, delivering a clean cup of coffee.
- Capacity: Available in various sizes, from 18 to 34 ounces, catering to different brewing preferences and serving sizes.
- Design: Elegant and minimalist design with a clear glass carafe, stainless steel plunger, and ergonomic handle.
- Safety: Heat-resistant handle and knob for safe and comfortable pouring, even when the carafe is hot.
- Pros: Stylish and minimalist design, durable construction, easy to use and clean, large capacity options.
- Cons: Glass carafe may be prone to breakage if not handled carefully, less heat retention compared to insulated models.
10. Le Creuset Stoneware French Press
Overview: The Le Creuset Stoneware French Press is a premium coffee brewing device known for its colorful and durable stoneware construction, stainless steel plunger, and classic design. It features a generous capacity and vibrant enamel finishes.
Manufacturer: Le Creuset is a French cookware manufacturer known for its colorful and durable cast iron cookware, but it also offers French presses known for their quality and design.
Target Audience:
- Who Needs It: Design-conscious consumers, collectors of Le Creuset products, and those seeking a stylish and durable French press with vibrant color options.
- Who Doesn’t Need It: Budget-conscious consumers or those who prefer more traditional materials like glass or stainless steel.
Features and Analysis:
- Materials: Stoneware construction with a non-porous enamel finish and stainless steel plunger assembly for durability and heat retention.
- Design: Classic and vibrant design with a wide range of enamel color options to complement any kitchen decor.
- Filtration System: Stainless steel mesh filter ensures a smooth and sediment-free coffee extraction, providing a clean cup of coffee.
- Capacity: Generous capacity options, ranging from 27 to 34 ounces, suitable for brewing multiple servings.
- Safety: Heat-resistant handle and knob for safe and comfortable pouring, even when the carafe is hot.
- Pros: Stylish and colorful design, durable construction, easy to use and clean, generous capacity options.
- Cons: Higher price point compared to other French presses, heavier and less portable than glass or stainless steel models.
Conclusion
Choosing the best French press depends on your specific preferences, lifestyle, and brewing needs. Whether you prioritize durability, heat retention, style, or budget, there’s a French press on this list to suit your requirements. By considering factors such as materials, filtration system, capacity, and design, you can select the perfect French press to elevate your coffee brewing experience. Whether you’re brewing coffee at home, on the go, or in the great outdoors, a French press offers a versatile and enjoyable way to enjoy delicious coffee anytime, anywhere.
