Best Chemex Coffee Makers [BUYER GUIDE]

The Chemex Classic Series 6-Cup Coffee Maker is like the timeless work of art in the coffee world. This sleek, glass beauty not only brews a seriously smooth cup of coffee but also adds a touch of elegance to any kitchen. It’s perfect for those who love the simplicity of drip coffee but want that little extra oomph in terms of flavor clarity. With a design that’s both functional and stylish, it brews up to 30 ounces, which is great for a small family or a few coffee-loving friends. However, the absence of a handle means you’ll need to be extra careful with handling it when it’s hot, and don’t forget those special Chemex filters!

Features:

• Hand-blown glass
• Elegant hourglass shape
• Brews up to 30 oz of coffee
• Compatible with Chemex paper filters
• Available in various sizes (3, 6, 8, 10 cups)

Pros:

• Makes a clean, rich cup of coffee
• Simple, minimalist design that looks great
• No plastic or metal parts, so you get a pure brew
• Durable glass, easy to clean

Cons:

• Requires special Chemex filters, which can be more expensive
• No handle, so you have to handle the glass carefully when hot
• Larger models can be a bit bulky for small kitchens

Chemex Ottomatic Coffee Brewer

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The Chemex Ottomatic Coffee Brewer is a game-changer if you’re a fan of Chemex coffee but don’t have the time or patience for manual brewing. This smart machine automates the pour-over process, offering that same clean, flavorful cup with just the press of a button. It’s perfect for anyone who loves precision and consistency in their coffee but doesn’t want to stand over the kettle. The main downside, though, is the price tag-it’s more of an investment compared to the traditional glass Chemex models. Plus, it needs electricity, so if you’re planning to take your coffee ritual on the road, this one’s not as portable.

Features:

• Automated brewing system
• Brews 6 cups of coffee
• Built-in pour-over style heating system
• Uses Chemex filters
• Precise brewing temperature control

Pros:

• Convenience of automatic brewing
• Mimics the pour-over process for better flavor extraction
• Quick, consistent results every time
• Ideal for those who want a hands-off coffee experience

Cons:

• More expensive than manual Chemex models
• Takes up more counter space
• Requires electricity, so not as portable

Chemex 8-Cup Coffee Maker

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If you’re brewing coffee for a group or just want to stock up on your caffeine for the day, the Chemex 8-Cup Coffee Maker is an excellent choice. This beauty brews up to 40 ounces of your favorite coffee, which is perfect for a small family or a get-together with friends. The classic hourglass design is not only super aesthetic but also ensures that the coffee brews in the best possible way. The only downside is the lack of a handle-so once it’s brewed, be careful not to burn yourself when pouring. Plus, you’ll need Chemex filters, which might be a bit more expensive than regular ones.

Features:

• Handcrafted glass
• Brews up to 40 oz of coffee
• Iconic hourglass shape
• Compatible with Chemex filters
• Available in several sizes (3, 6, 8, 10 cups)

Pros:

• Ideal for larger families or gatherings
• Brews rich, clean coffee with no bitterness
• Beautiful, functional design
• Easy to clean and maintain

Cons:

• Larger size can be too much for small kitchens
• No handle, needs careful handling when hot
• Requires Chemex-specific filters

Chemex 3-Cup Coffee Maker

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The Chemex 3-Cup Coffee Maker is ideal if you’re just brewing coffee for yourself or a small partner in crime. It’s compact, easy to store, and it still manages to deliver that signature Chemex flavor-a clean, smooth cup of coffee every time. The 15-ounce capacity is perfect for a single serving, but if you need more, you’ll have to brew multiple batches. Like its larger counterparts, it’s made of all glass with no plastic or metal parts, which helps deliver a pure taste. The main catch? You’ll have to handle it carefully when it’s hot, and those Chemex filters can get pricey.

Features:

• Compact, hand-blown glass
• Brews up to 15 oz of coffee
• Classic, elegant hourglass design
• No plastic or metal parts
• Uses Chemex paper filters

Pros:

• Perfect for single servings or couples
• Beautiful and easy to store
• No plastic or metal parts, ensuring purity in flavor
• Simple to use and clean

Cons:

• Brews a smaller amount, not ideal for bigger groups
• Requires Chemex filters
• No handle, needs extra caution when handling

Chemex Glass Handle Coffee Maker (6-Cup)

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The Chemex Glass Handle Coffee Maker (6-Cup) is perfect for anyone who wants the elegance of Chemex with the added practicality of a handle. If you’ve ever burned yourself trying to pour from a traditional Chemex, you’ll appreciate this thoughtful addition. It’s still the same beautiful, simple design you know and love, but with the added bonus of easy handling. You get the same clean, smooth cup of coffee, and it’s easy to use and clean. However, the wooden collar around the handle might wear out over time, and you’ll still need those Chemex-specific filters for the full experience.

Features:

• Hand-blown glass with a built-in handle
• Brews up to 30 oz of coffee
• Classic hourglass shape with a wooden collar
• Made without metal or plastic parts
• Compatible with Chemex paper filters

Pros:

• Handle makes it safer to pour when hot
• Same smooth, clean coffee taste
• Sleek, stylish design
• Easy to clean and use

Cons:

• Requires Chemex filters
• The handle is made of wood, so it might wear out over time
• Still relatively bulky compared to other coffee makers

Why Buy Chemex Coffee Makers

There are several compelling reasons to consider buying a Chemex Coffee Maker. First and foremost, quality of coffee is paramount. Chemex has a reputation for producing an exceptionally clean, flavorful cup. The unique design of the carafe and its thick, proprietary filters allow for the extraction of the most desirable flavors while minimizing bitterness and oils that can overwhelm the palate. Whether you’re an aficionado of light roasts or dark brews, Chemex’s brewing process brings out the best in the coffee beans, providing a full-bodied, crisp, and nuanced cup of coffee every time.

Another key reason to buy a Chemex is its aesthetic appeal. The Chemex Coffee Maker is as much an art piece as it is a brewing tool. The handblown glass vessel, sleek curves, and simple wooden collar give it a timeless and elegant look that elevates any kitchen. Its minimalist design is not only visually pleasing but also functional, as it allows you to see the brewing process unfold.

The durability of Chemex coffee makers is another benefit. Made from durable, heat-resistant glass, a Chemex is built to last for years, providing excellent value over time. Chemex coffee makers are also versatile, with various sizes available to suit different household sizes and coffee consumption habits. From brewing small, single servings to larger quantities, there is a Chemex size for nearly every need.

Lastly, Chemex offers a hands-on brewing experience that many coffee enthusiasts appreciate. Unlike automated machines, Chemex allows for complete control over the brewing process. You control the grind size, water temperature, pouring technique, and brew time-making it an ideal choice for those who enjoy experimenting and perfecting their cup of coffee.

How To Choose The Right Chemex Coffee Maker

Choosing the right Chemex Coffee Maker depends on a few critical factors, including your brewing preferences, the size of your household, and how much coffee you consume on a daily basis. Chemex offers several different sizes, each designed to meet different needs:

1. 6-Cup Chemex: Ideal for individuals or small households, this size can brew about 30 ounces (approximately 900 mL) of coffee. It’s perfect for those who want to brew enough coffee for themselves or a couple of people without wasting extra coffee.
2. 8-Cup Chemex: A popular choice for families or small gatherings, the 8-cup model brews about 40 ounces (approximately 1.2 liters) of coffee. It’s versatile and works well for both small and medium-sized groups.
3. 10-Cup Chemex: If you entertain frequently or have a larger household, the 10-cup Chemex, which brews approximately 50 ounces (1.5 liters) of coffee, will meet your needs. This size ensures you always have enough coffee on hand, whether it’s for a brunch or a busy morning.
4. 3-Cup Chemex: For those who prefer a smaller, more compact coffee maker, the 3-cup Chemex is an excellent option. It’s the perfect choice for single individuals who brew just one or two cups of coffee at a time.

Once you’ve decided on the size, consider the material and design. The Chemex carafes come in glass, with some options featuring a wooden collar or a leather strap for a unique touch. The collar provides a protective grip, making it easier to handle the hot carafe after brewing.

Top Features To Look For In Chemex Coffee Makers

When shopping for a Chemex, it’s important to consider the features that enhance its functionality and overall value:

1. Heat-Resistant Glass: Chemex uses laboratory-grade borosilicate glass that can withstand high temperatures without breaking or cracking. This glass also ensures the purity of the coffee flavor, as there’s no risk of metallic or plastic taste leaching into the brew.
2. Paper Filters: One of the standout features of the Chemex is its specially designed paper filters, which are thicker than traditional filters. These filters are essential in creating a smooth, clean cup by removing more coffee oils and fines, resulting in a brew that is crisp and bright without any grittiness.
3. Wooden Collar or Leather Strap: While the design of the Chemex is certainly striking, its practical aspects should not be overlooked. The wooden collar, or sometimes leather strap, acts as an insulating sleeve around the glass, making the carafe easy to handle, especially when hot. The collar also adds a touch of elegance and functionality to the Chemex.
4. Carafe Shape: The signature shape of the Chemex carafe, with its wide bottom tapering to a narrow neck, plays a key role in the brewing process. It encourages even extraction by ensuring that water flows evenly through the coffee grounds, helping to avoid over-extraction or under-extraction.
5. Size Options: As mentioned earlier, Chemex offers a variety of sizes, ranging from small 3-cup models to larger 10-cup models. This allows you to choose the one that best suits your brewing needs.

Tips For Using Chemex Coffee Makers

Brewing coffee with a Chemex is an art form that requires attention to detail, but with practice, it becomes second nature. Here are some helpful tips for getting the best results from your Chemex:

1. Use Fresh, High-Quality Coffee Beans: The foundation of a great cup of coffee starts with the beans. Use fresh, high-quality, freshly ground beans to get the most out of your Chemex. Aim for a medium to coarse grind size-finer grinds can clog the filter and result in over-extraction.
2. Boil Water and Let It Cool: For optimal brewing, water temperature should be between 195°F and 205°F (90°C – 96°C). Let your water boil, then let it cool for a minute before pouring over your coffee grounds. This ensures the water extracts the flavors properly without scalding the coffee.
3. Pour Slowly and Evenly: Pour your hot water slowly in a circular motion, ensuring even saturation of the coffee grounds. This is critical to prevent uneven extraction. Begin by pouring a small amount of water to bloom the coffee, allowing it to release carbon dioxide before proceeding with the full brew.
4. Experiment with Ratios: The standard coffee-to-water ratio for Chemex is typically 1:15, but you can adjust this depending on your taste preferences. If you prefer a stronger brew, increase the coffee amount, and if you like a milder cup, reduce it.
5. Brewing Time: The brewing time in a Chemex should be around 4-5 minutes, depending on the amount of coffee. Be patient and let the water drip through the coffee grounds naturally.

Maintenance And Cleaning Tips

Maintaining your Chemex is straightforward but essential for ensuring longevity and the best possible brewing results:

1. Rinse After Each Use: Always rinse your Chemex thoroughly with warm water after each use to remove any leftover coffee oils or grounds. This helps prevent residue buildup, which can affect the flavor of future brews.
2. Deep Cleaning: Every few weeks, give your Chemex a deeper clean. Wash it with warm soapy water, using a soft brush or sponge to scrub any stubborn stains or residue. Make sure to thoroughly dry the carafe before storing it.
3. Avoid Abrasive Cleaners: Since the glass is delicate, never use abrasive cleaning pads or harsh chemicals. Stick to mild dish soap and non-abrasive sponges to preserve the glass’s integrity and prevent scratches.
4. Replace Filters: Chemex paper filters are single-use and should be disposed of after every brew. Regularly replacing the filters ensures a cleaner, more flavorful cup of coffee.

Where To Buy Chemex Coffee Makers

Chemex Coffee Makers are widely available through a variety of channels. Here are some popular places to buy one:

1. Specialty Coffee Shops: Many high-end coffee shops and roasters sell Chemex Coffee Makers along with related accessories like filters, pour-over kettles, and grinders.
2. Online Retailers: Websites like Amazon, Sur La Table, and Bed Bath & Beyond carry a wide range of Chemex models, often with customer reviews and detailed product descriptions. Buying online also offers the convenience of direct home delivery.
3. Official Chemex Website: Purchasing directly from the Chemex website ensures you are buying an authentic product. They offer a range of sizes and accessories, and you may find bundles with filters and other essentials.
4. Home Goods Stores: Retailers like Crate & Barrel or Williams-Sonoma often carry Chemex Coffee Makers, especially if you prefer to shop in person.

Final Words

A Chemex Coffee Maker is more than just a tool-it’s an experience. It combines aesthetics, functionality, and craftsmanship into a brewing system that elevates coffee to a true art form. Whether you’re a seasoned coffee enthusiast or just beginning your journey into the world of coffee brewing, a Chemex can provide a unique and satisfying experience that brings out the best in your coffee beans.