V60 vs Chemex
The V60 and Chemex are both pour-over brewers that use paper filters, but they produce noticeably different results. The Chemex's thicker filter removes more oils, while the V60's thinner filter lets more through. Here's how to choose.
Choose V60 when...
- You're brewing a single cup and want precise control over every variable
- You prefer a slightly fuller body with more texture than the Chemex allows
- You want an affordable entry into pour-over without sacrificing quality
Choose Chemex when...
- You regularly brew 3–6 cups at once and want a beautiful carafe to serve from
- You want the cleanest, most delicate cup possible — Chemex's thick filter removes virtually all oils
- Aesthetics matter to you; Chemex is iconic design that looks great on any kitchen counter
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Chemex really taste different from V60?
Yes, noticeably so. The Chemex's much thicker bonded paper filter removes almost all oils and very fine particles, producing an exceptionally clean, almost tea-like cup. V60 with standard Hario filters lets slightly more through, giving a bit more body. Side-by-side with the same coffee, the Chemex will taste lighter and more delicate.
Can I use V60 filters in a Chemex?
No — they use completely different filter shapes. Chemex requires its own bonded square filters (or cone filters sized for Chemex) that fold into a cone shape. V60 uses its own cone filters. Using the wrong filter will cause bypass or collapse.
Is Chemex better for brewing large batches?
Yes — this is one of Chemex's biggest advantages. The 6-cup and 8-cup Chemex models are designed for batch brewing and serve directly from the vessel. V60 sizes top out at 02 (1-4 cups) and you need a separate carafe. For groups, Chemex is the clear winner.
Which pour-over is more beginner-friendly — V60 or Chemex?
They're similar in difficulty, but the Chemex's larger size actually makes it slightly more forgiving for beginners because the bigger bed of coffee is more tolerant of uneven pours. The V60's smaller, steeper cone requires more precise technique for a single-cup brew.