In the world of specialty coffee, the Kalita Wave funnel is one of the most popular tools among pour-over enthusiasts, thanks to its flat-bottom design and waves that ensure even flow and balanced extraction. Unlike the V60's conical shape, which relies on large manual controls, the Kalita is more forgiving of errors, making it an ideal choice for both beginners and professionals. But when buying filters or the funnel itself, the most frequently asked question is: Kalita 155 or 185 filters? What's the difference between them? And which size best suits my daily needs?
In this detailed article, we'll explore the key differences between the 155 and 185 sizes, focusing on volume, flow rate, optimal portion sizes, cup quality, and real-world experiences from communities like Reddit, Home-Barista, and Coffee Chronicler. Our goal is to help you make an informed decision, incorporating frequently searched terms such as "Kalita 155 vs 185," "Kalita 155 vs 185 difference," "Which Kalita size is better?", "Kalita Wave size recommendation," "Kalita 155 vs 185 filters," and "best Kalita for a single cup." We'll also discuss how to incorporate these filters into your routine and conclude with a FAQ and a promotional section for the Coffee Luxury blog, which offers specialty coffee supplies and various beverages like hot chocolate.
The main difference between Kalita 155 and 185 filters
The main difference between the Kalita Wave 155 and 185 filters is only size ; they share the same design: a flat base with three circular drainage holes and wave-like paper that prevents sticking to the walls and allows for a consistent flow. There is no difference in paper quality, thickness, or bleaching type (both are generally oxygen-bleached).
- Kalita Wave 155 : The smaller size, designed primarily for brewing 1-2 cups (approximately 180-300 ml total). Compared to the V60 01 size, it is recommended for 12-20 gram doses of coffee.
- Kalita Wave 185 : Large size, designed for 2-4 cups (approximately 300-600 ml or more). Compare to the V60 02 size, and recommended for doses of 20-35 grams of coffee or more.
Structurally, the 185 is slightly wider and longer, which means that the ground coffee layer is relatively thinner when using small doses, while the 155 maintains a better layer thickness with lower doses.
Flow rate and extraction rate: Which is faster and more consistent?
One of the most prominent points mentioned by users is the drawdown time :
- The 155 is often described as faster and more predictable, especially with smaller doses. The flow is smoother, and pauses or time prolongations are rare.
- The 185 may be slightly slower , and "stalling" (a temporary pause in flow) may occur if the pouring is uneven or the grinding is too fine, especially in the steel or glass version. This is because the water spreads over a larger area, increasing the likelihood of partial blockages.
In Home-Barista and Reddit experiments, many prefer the 155 for individual daily preparation because it gives a shorter drain time (usually 2:30-3:30 minutes), whereas the 185 can reach 3:30-4:30 minutes or more if the grind is not adjusted properly.
In terms of extraction, both sizes produce a clean, sweet cup thanks to the flat base, but the 155 tends to bring out the flavors more clearly with smaller doses, while the 185 gives a larger body with larger doses.
Which size suits you? A guide to choosing the right size based on your needs.
The choice depends mainly on the amount of coffee you drink daily :
- Choose Kalita 155 if :
- Drink individual coffees (only 1-2 cups).
- Your daily dose is 12-20 grams of coffee.
- Prefer a quick and consistent preparation without complications.
- You live alone or with one partner, and you want to avoid waste.
- Looking for "best Kalita for single cup" or "Kalita 155 for one person".
- Choose Kalita 185 if :
- Drink 2-4 cups or prepare for family/guests.
- Your dose is 20-35 grams or more.
- You want more flexibility (it can be used for small doses, but it's not ideal).
- Prefer a cup with a stronger body and a more intense flavor.
- Are you looking for "Kalita 185 for multiple cups" or do you want an option that will be suitable for the future if the number of drinkers increases?
Common advice from experts such as Coffee Chronicler: If you're unsure, start with 185 as it's more flexible (works well even with 15-18 grams), whereas 155 may feel tight with large doses.
Practical tips for using Kalita 155 or 185 filters
- Rinse the filters : Always rinse with hot water to remove any papery taste.
- Grinding : Medium to medium-coarse (closer to sea salt), because Kalita tolerates coarser grinding than V60.
- Ratio : Start with 1:15 or 1:16 (coffee:water).
- Pouring : Slow circular pouring, focusing on the center of the funnel to maintain a flat layer.
- Materials : Filters are available in white or brown in both sizes, and the difference is similar to V60 (white is purer in taste, brown is more sustainable).
Kalita can be combined with other drinks, such as preparing hot chocolate by adding ground cocoa with hot water for a creamy foam.
Frequently asked questions about Kalita 155 and 185 filters
- What is the main difference between 155 and 185? The size only; 155 for 1-2 cups, 185 for 2-4 cups.
- Which one drains faster? The 155 is generally faster and less prone to stalling.
- Can 185 be used for just one cup? Yes, but it may give a thin film and a less consistent extraction; 155 is preferred for small doses.
- Which is better for beginners? Both are excellent, but the 155 is easier to manage on a daily basis.
- Are the filters similar in quality? Yes, the same paper and design, only the size is different.
- How much do the filters cost approximately? A box of 100 pieces costs about $5-8 depending on the size and location.
The best types of filters for perfect coffee in coffee luxury
At Coffee Luxury, we are committed to providing the finest specialty coffee and beverage accessories to enhance your everyday wellness experience. Whether you prefer Kalita 155 filters for individual brewing or 185 for family gatherings, or you'd like to try our premium hot chocolate made with organic cacao, we offer high-quality products at competitive prices. Shop now.