Drip coffee is one of the most popular brewing methods among specialty coffee lovers in Saudi Arabia and around the world, highlighting the delicate and complex flavors of coffee beans. Among drip coffee brewers, the Hario V60 and Chemex stand out as two of the top choices favored by home baristas and professionals alike. But what's the difference between them? And how does each affect the coffee experience? In this article, prepared specifically for the Coffee Luxury blog, we'll explore the differences between the V60 and Chemex in terms of design, brewing method, resulting flavor, and ease of use. We'll also offer tips for choosing the right brewer for beans like Hound , Ash , and Doha , as well as recommendations for using Coffee Luxury tools. Whether you're a coffee beginner or an expert, this guide will help you make an informed decision for the best coffee experience.
1. Design: V60 vs. Chemex
Hario V60
- Shape : A 60° conical funnel (hence the name V60), made of ceramic, plastic, or metal, with a wide bottom opening.
- Filter : Uses relatively thin conical paper filters, designed specifically for the V60.
- Internal Design : It has internal spiral ribs that help direct water flow and prevent the filter from sticking to the sides, allowing for even extraction.
- Capacity : Comes in different sizes (01, 02, 03), suitable for preparing 1-4 cups (120-600 ml).
- Use : Ideal for individual preparation or small quantities, providing precise control over the pouring process.
Chemex
- Shape : Elegant hourglass-shaped glass pitcher made of heat-resistant glass with a wooden or plastic handle.
- Filter : Uses thicker paper filters than the V60, resulting in more precise filtration of oils and sediments.
- Interior Design : It does not have internal ribs, but is designed to maintain a stable temperature during cooking.
- Capacity : Available in different sizes (3, 6, 8, 10 cups), suitable for preparing 450-1200 ml, making it ideal for preparing larger quantities.
- Use : Ideal for preparing coffee for small groups, with a focus on pure flavor.
Bottom Line : The V60 is smaller and more flexible for single-serve brewing, while the Chemex is larger, sleeker, and designed for larger batch brewing with an aesthetically pleasing appearance.
2. Preparation method
Hario V60
- Technique : It relies on the pour-over technique, where hot water (90-96°C) is poured over the ground coffee slowly and in circular motions.
- Preparation time : It takes about 2-3 minutes to prepare one cup (250 ml).
- Coffee to water ratio : 1:16 (e.g., 15g coffee to 240ml water).
- Grinding degree : Medium to fine (similar to the texture of caster sugar).
- Equipment Needed : V60, paper filter, pour-over kettle (like Hario Buono Kettle from Luxury Coffee ), digital scale (like Hario Drip Scale ), and grinder (like Baratza Encore ).
- Steps :
- Place the filter in the funnel, and wash it with hot water to remove the paper taste.
- Add 15g of ground coffee (such as Dohy Yergacheff ).
- Pour 30ml of hot water (92°C) to bloom the coffee for 30 seconds.
- Pour in an additional 210ml of water in circular motions in batches over 2-3 minutes.
- Serve coffee in a cup or pot.
Chemex
- Technique : Also relies on hand pouring, but the thick filter slows the water flow, prolonging extraction time.
- Preparation time : It takes about 3-5 minutes to prepare 450 ml.
- Coffee to water ratio : 1:15 (e.g., 30g coffee to 450ml water).
- Grind level : Medium to coarse (similar to the texture of coarse salt).
- Equipment needed : Chemex, paper filter, pouring pitcher, digital scale, and grinder.
- Steps :
- Place the thick filter in the Chemex and wash it with hot water.
- Add 30g of ground coffee (such as Ash Ethiopia Hambela ).
- Pour 60ml of hot water to lighten the coffee for 45 seconds.
- Pour in an additional 390ml of water slowly in circular motions in batches over 3-5 minutes.
- Serve coffee directly from the Chemex carafe.
Bottom line : The V60 is faster and requires more control when pouring, while the Chemex is slower and easier for beginners due to the thicker filter.
3. The resulting flavor
Hario V60
- Flavor : Produces a light to medium-bodied coffee, with bright acidity and pronounced flavors (such as jasmine or raspberry in Douha Yergacheffe ). The fine filter allows some oils to pass through, enhancing the fruity and floral flavors.
- Extraction : Provides greater control over flavor based on pour speed and grind degree, making it ideal for grains with complex flavors like Ethiopia Hambela Ash .
- Best for : Lovers of floral and fruity flavors, and those who prefer a light, refreshing coffee.
Chemex
- Flavor : Produces very pure, light-bodied coffee, with reduced oils and sediment due to the thick filter. Flavors tend to be smoother and more balanced, with less pronounced acidity than the V60.
- Extraction : Brings out sweet, nutty flavors (like the caramel and apple in El Salvador's El Carmen ), while reducing bitterness.
- Best for : Lovers of smooth, pure coffee, who prefer a sediment-free drinking experience.
Conclusion : The V60 brings out fruity and acidic flavors, while the Chemex produces smoother, cleaner coffee, with less oil.
4. Ease of use and cleaning
Hario V60
- Ease of Use : Requires moderate skill to control the casting speed and water movement. Beginners may need to practice to achieve consistent results.
- Cleaning : Very easy, just dispose of the paper filter and wash the funnel with soap and water.
- Portability : Light and small, making it ideal for travel or individual use.
Chemex
- Ease of Use : Easier for beginners due to the thick filter that slows the water flow, reducing the need for precise pouring control.
- Cleaning : More complex, requiring careful washing of the glass jug, especially the narrow interior. A cleaning brush is recommended.
- Portability : Less flexible due to the size and weight of glass, making it more suitable for home use.
Bottom line : The V60 is easier to clean and more portable, while the Chemex is easier to prepare for beginners but requires more thorough cleaning.
5. Which tool is right for you?
Choose V60 if:
- Prefer a light coffee with pronounced fruity and acidic flavors.
- Looking for precise preparation control and a professional barista experience.
- You need a portable and affordable tool.
- Use beans such as Dahya Yirgacheffe or Ash Ethiopia Hambela to highlight the floral flavors.
Choose Chemex if:
- Prefer pure, smooth coffee with minimal oils and sediment.
- Makes coffee for more than one person (2-6 cups).
- Care about elegant appearance and aesthetic experience.
- Use grains like Hound Brazil Cascaval or Ash Colombia Supremo to bring out the sweet flavors.
Tips for preparing coffee using a V60 or Chemex
- Use fresh beans : Choose beans from a coffee concession like Doha Yergacheffe (for V60) or Hound El Salvador (for Chemex), roasted within 2-4 weeks.
- Proper Grind : Use a high-quality grinder to ensure an even grind (fine for V60, coarse for Chemex).
- Pure Water : Use filtered water at 90-96°C for best extraction.
- Precision Pour Kettle : Use the Hario Buono Kettle from Luxury Coffee to control the flow of water.
- Precise Measuring : Use the Hario Drip Scale to ensure the perfect coffee to water ratio.
- Storage : Store beans in airtight containers like the Airscape Coffee Canister or Fellow Atmos from Luxury Coffee to preserve flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions About V60 and Chemex
1. What is the main difference between V60 and Chemex?
The V60 produces light coffee with pronounced fruity and acidic flavors, while the Chemex produces a clean, smooth coffee due to its thick filter. The V60 is faster and more flexible, while the Chemex is ideal for larger batches.
2. Can the same pills be used for both devices?
Yes, but choose beans with complex flavors (like Doha Yergacheffe ) for the V60 and balanced beans (like Hound Brazil ) for the Chemex.
3. Which is easier for beginners?
The Chemex is easier because of the thick filter that slows the water flow, reducing the need for precise control.
4. Are the filters interchangeable between the V60 and the Chemex?
No, V60 filters are conical and thin, while Chemex filters are thicker and specifically designed for the pitcher.
5. Which is better for drip coffee?
Depends on preference: V60 for bright flavors, Chemex for smooth, clean flavors.
6. How do I choose between V60 and Chemex?
If you prefer control and complex flavors, choose the V60. If you want pure coffee for multiple people, choose the Chemex.
7. Where can I buy V60 or Chemex?
At Luxury Coffee , we offer both tools with filters and accessories like the Hario Buono Kettle and Hario Drip Scale .
Why choose coffee tools from Luxury Coffee?
At Luxury Coffee , we offer a premium selection of specialty coffee beans from Saudi roasters like Hound , Ash , and Dahha , along with high-quality brewing tools like the Hario V60 , Chemex , Hario Buono Kettle , and Baratza Encore . With free shipping and fast delivery to all cities in Saudi Arabia, you can brew professional-quality specialty coffee at home. Visit our online store at [store link] and discover the world of drip coffee.
Finally, both the V60 and Chemex offer a unique brewing experience. The V60 is ideal for those who love vibrant flavors and precise control, while the Chemex is ideal for brewing pure, smooth coffee for multiple people. Choose the tool that best suits your taste and lifestyle, and use high-quality beans from the finest coffee brands like Duha Yerqacheff or Hound Brasil Cascaval for the best results. Join the specialty coffee enthusiasts in Saudi Arabia and enjoy an unforgettable coffee-making journey.