Comparing Chemex vs. V60: Which One is Right for You?
If you love pour-over coffee, you’ve likely come across the Chemex and Hario V60. Both produce delicious, high-quality coffee when paired with the right grinder and gooseneck kettle, but they have key differences in design, brewing style, and flavor profile.
Both produce delicious, high-quality coffee, but they have key differences in design, brewing style, and flavor profile. In this guide, we’ll compare Chemex vs V60 to help you determine which is best for your coffee preferences.
Quick Comparison: Chemex vs. V60
| Feature | Chemex | Hario V60 |
|---|---|---|
| Design | Glass carafe with thick paper filters | Cone-shaped dripper with spiral ridges |
| Brew Style | Slower, full-bodied extraction | Faster, clean and bright flavors |
| Filter Type | Thick bonded paper | Thin, fast-draining paper |
| Grind Size | Medium-coarse | Medium-fine |
| Best For | Smooth, mellow coffee | Bright, complex coffee flavors |
Note: For both methods, a precision scale is essential for consistent results. Learn more about grind consistency in our manual grinder guide.
Chemex: The Smooth & Balanced Brew
✅ Pros of Chemex
- Produces clean, smooth coffee with a balanced flavor.
- The thick paper filter removes oils and fine particles.
- Aesthetic design doubles as a serving carafe.
- Can brew multiple cups at once (3-10 cup models available).
❌ Cons of Chemex
- Slower brew time due to thick filters.
- Requires precise pouring technique.
- More expensive than the V60.
Best For:
- Those who enjoy smoother, mellow coffee.
- Brewing multiple cups in one session (or use a thermos to keep extra coffee hot).
- Coffee drinkers who appreciate cleaner, less oily coffee.
Hario V60: The Bright & Complex Brew
✅ Pros of Hario V60
- Produces a bright, complex coffee with distinct flavors.
- Faster brew time than Chemex.
- Lightweight and portable, ideal for travel.
- Available in ceramic, plastic, glass, and metal options.
❌ Cons of Hario V60
- Steeper learning curve—requires precise pouring technique.
- Less forgiving if grind size or pouring speed is incorrect.
- Brews one cup at a time, requiring multiple brews for large servings.
Best For:
- Those who prefer bright, acidic, and complex flavors.
- Experienced brewers who enjoy refining their pour-over technique.
- People who need a compact, travel-friendly brewer (perfect for camping alongside an AeroPress).
Flavor Differences: Chemex vs. V60
| Factor | Chemex | Hario V60 |
| Flavor Profile | Smooth, mellow, clean | Bright, complex, nuanced |
| Body | Light to medium | Light |
| Acidity | Balanced, mild | High, vibrant |
| Oil Content | Minimal (thick filter removes oils) | Moderate (thinner filter allows more oils) |
Coffee Bean Selection for Pour-Over
The right beans make a huge difference:
- Light roasts shine with V60’s bright extraction
- Medium roasts work beautifully in both
- Learn about bean varieties
- Master proper storage for freshness
- Consider roasting your own for ultimate control
Which One Tastes Better?
- If you enjoy a clean, crisp cup with a smooth mouthfeel, go for Chemex.
- If you love bright, fruity, and intricate flavors, the V60 is the better option.
- Chemex is more forgiving and ideal for casual brewers.
- Hario V60 requires more technique but allows for fine-tuned control over extraction.
Ease of Use & Learning Curve
| Factor | Chemex | Hario V60 |
| Ease of Use | Medium difficulty | Requires precise technique |
| Brew Time | 4-5 minutes | 2-3 minutes |
| Pouring Technique | Moderate control needed | High precision required |
Both methods benefit from proper water temperature control. A quality gooseneck kettle is essential for either brewer. For comparison with other manual methods, see our French Press vs AeroPress guide.
Which One Should You Choose?
Choose Chemex if:
✅ You prefer a clean, balanced, and smooth coffee. ✅ You often brew for multiple people. ✅ You want a stylish, all-in-one brewing and serving carafe.
Choose Hario V60 if:
✅ You enjoy bright, complex coffee flavors. ✅ You like experimenting with different brewing techniques. ✅ You need a compact, travel-friendly coffee dripper.
Complete Your Pour-Over Setup
Regardless of which you choose, you’ll need:
- Grinding: A consistent grinder (burr, not blade)
- Pouring: A gooseneck kettle for control
- Weighing: A coffee scale for precision
- Timing: Use the timer on your scale or phone
- Travel: Pack in a travel mug for on-the-go
For different brewing styles, explore French Press, cold brew, or if you want more automation, check out smart coffee makers.
Chemex vs V60 FAQ
Which is better for beginners?
Chemex is more forgiving. V60 requires precise technique but teaches you more about extraction.
Can I use the same grind for both?
No. Chemex needs medium-coarse (like kosher salt). V60 needs medium-fine (like table salt).
Why does V60 coffee taste sour?
Under-extraction. Try finer grind, slower pour, or hotter water (205°F).
Which makes stronger coffee?
V60 typically brews stronger due to faster flow and more extraction. Adjust ratios to taste.
Paper filters – are they interchangeable?
No. Chemex uses proprietary thick filters. V60 uses specific cone filters. Don’t mix.
Final Verdict: Chemex vs. V60
Both Chemex and Hario V60 are excellent pour-over coffee makers, and the best choice depends on your taste and brewing style. If you enjoy full-bodied, smooth coffee, go for the Chemex. If you prefer a lighter, brighter cup with more acidity, the V60 is ideal.
Whichever you choose, both methods deliver exceptional coffee when brewed correctly. ☕🚀