If you're diving into the world of manual coffee brewing, two names are bound to come up: French Press and AeroPress. Both are beloved by coffee enthusiasts for their simplicity, affordability, and ability to produce rich, satisfying coffee—but they brew in very different ways.

So, when it comes to French Press vs AeroPress, which is better?

At Goldberry Roasting Company, we believe the best brewing method is the one that fits your taste, routine, and lifestyle. In this guide, we’ll break down how each method works, what kind of flavor it produces, and which one might be the better choice for your perfect cup.

What Is a French Press?

The French Press—also known as a press pot or plunger pot—is a classic full-immersion brewing method. It uses a metal mesh filter and a cylindrical glass or stainless-steel body to steep coffee grounds directly in hot water.

How It Works:

1. Add coarsely ground coffee and hot water to the press.

2. Let steep for about 4 minutes.

3. Press the plunger down to separate grounds from the liquid.

4. Pour and enjoy!

French press coffee is known for its rich body and bold flavor due to the lack of a paper filter, which allows natural oils and fine particles into the cup.

What Is an AeroPress?

The AeroPress is a relatively modern brewing device invented in 2005. It uses air pressure to quickly force hot water through coffee grounds and a microfilter—somewhere between an espresso shot and a pour over.

How It Works:

1. Add finely ground coffee and hot water into the AeroPress chamber.

2. Stir and let steep for 30 seconds to 2 minutes.

3. Press down to extract coffee through a paper or metal filter.

4. Serve straight or dilute for an Americano-style drink.

The AeroPress delivers a clean, smooth, and concentrated cup, often with less bitterness and more clarity than immersion brewers.

French Press vs AeroPress: Head-to-Head Comparison

Flavor Showdown: Which Tastes Better?

This really comes down to preference.

• French Press gives you a heavier, oilier cup with deeper mouthfeel—ideal for medium to dark roasts. It’s great if you like coffee that feels big and rustic.

• AeroPress produces a cleaner, brighter brew, especially with lighter roasts. It also brings out subtle flavor notes with less bitterness, which makes it a favorite among specialty coffee lovers.

At Goldberry, we recommend the French Press for our bold signature blends and the AeroPress for our more delicate single origins like Ethiopian or Rwandan roasts.

When to Choose the French Press

• You enjoy a full-bodied, intense cup of coffee

• You like brewing multiple cups at once

• You don’t mind a little sediment in your cup

• You typically drink darker roasts

The French Press is a classic choice for slow mornings, brunches, and anyone who loves their coffee strong and bold.

When to Choose the AeroPress

• You prefer a cleaner, smoother cup

• You need a quick brew without bitterness

• You love to experiment with recipes and ratios

• You’re a frequent traveler or want a portable option

The AeroPress is versatile and forgiving, making it a great choice for both beginners and experienced brewers who like precision.

Can’t Decide? Use Both!

The good news is—French Press vs AeroPress doesn’t have to be a competition. Many coffee lovers keep both on hand and choose based on mood, time, or roast.

At Goldberry Roasting Company, we’re here to help you explore every brewing method and discover what brings out the best in your coffee. Whether you want a bold, immersive brew or a clean, controlled cup, the right beans and a little know-how go a long way.

Want to experiment with both methods? Explore our full collection of roasts at goldberryroasting.com—each one carefully crafted to shine in your favorite brew style.