Aeropresses are one of the more popular methods of making coffee in recent years. The thing that makes this kind of surprising is how you make Aeropress coffee. Because of its popularity, you may be wondering how it is different to your regular drip coffee that you get from your household coffee maker.
Gamble Bay Coffee is a source dedicated to bringing you the most reliable information on everything you need to know about coffee. Manual coffee brewing methods, like using the Aeropress, have become increasingly popular, providing an involving and fun change to brewing with your drip coffee maker.
Before we take a look at each of these individually, I want to talk about what makes these two methods of brewing coffee different and explain why it matters.
What Makes Aeropress and Drip Coffee Different?
So we know that an Aeropress is a manual method of making coffee rather than automatic, but what else makes it so different?
- Many Aeropress makers are also capable of (and very good at) making espressos. So if you would rather have espresso in the morning and Aeropress coffee or drip coffee, you certainly have the option.
- Since Aeropress uses pressure and such to make the coffee, as well as using a metal filter in some cases, it is often much stronger than regular drip coffee.
- Drip coffee, using a paper filter, doesn’t get all of the oils and benefits from the coffee that something like an Aeropress would.
- Because of the espresso-like coffee it makes, the Aeropress can make many different styles and types of coffee, whereas the coffee from the drip maker is a one-type-only kind of maker.
It is important to note that the Aeropress only makes a single cup. While for most users this is not an issue, some people may need a bit more caffeine than that and may not have the time to do the process, repeatedly.
Is an Aeropress Better Than a Drip Coffee Maker?
In many ways, I would say yes, although it does have its shortcomings. As I said, an Aeropress is only designed to make a single cup of coffee, compared to a drip coffee maker, which can make multiple cups at once. This can be offset in the sense that you can steep it for longer to get stronger coffee, and thus, more caffeine.
An AeroPress is a lot like a Chemex Coffeemaker in the sense that it has the appearance of something you would find in a chemistry kit. There are some Aeropress makers that are made bigger to accommodate more cups of coffee for the same process, but most of them are only large enough for one cup.
One of the other downsides to an Aeropress is that it uses disposable filters, this makes it more tedious for on-the-go use as you have to carry the Aeropress and coffee around, as well as disposable filters. These filters help make the Aeropress an all-around cleaner method of brewing coffee, as everything is linear and simple to clean.
One of the benefits of an Aeropress is that, although not as fast as an espresso machine, it brews quite fast, making it more convenient for someone in a rush.
The Aeropress is made of plastic, so it is practically invulnerable. With them being inexpensive and making good quality coffee, they are, without a doubt, worth the buy. If you are looking into purchasing one, I would recommend this one, as it makes quite a bit more coffee than an average Aeropress maker and comes with everything you need.
I would definitely recommend these over the drip coffee makers, especially if you are someone who enjoys exercising in the mornings. Being that the caffeine content in Aeropress coffee is about on par with that of an espresso, it will give you a great burst of energy that drip coffee can’t provide.
Is Drip Coffee Better Than Aeropress Coffee?
In most ways, I would have to say that, no, drip coffee is not better than Aeropress coffee. This is for a number of reasons and, while I don’t believe drip coffee is bad, as I drink it on occasion, it just pales in comparison to the tons of options there are aside from it.
However, if you are looking for coffee that isn’t as strong as Aeropress coffee and similar drinks, drip coffee is a perfect way to go. Drip coffee is one of the widest consumer choices in coffee.
Most drip coffee machines are fairly inexpensive and you can find them for around the same price as an Aeropress, so neither will set you back much in funds. Although, drip coffee has many redeeming qualities in its autonomy. You can find many variants of the coffee makers, some of which can have timers set, or even add in sugar and such during the brewing process.
However, I firmly believe that, because of the strength disparity and caffeine content in these two types of coffee, you are wasting some money when you use a drip machine, rather than the alternative. This is a subjective view, of course, but I think that if you aren’t getting the most out of your coffee, you are wasting money.
If you don’t have a drip coffee maker, as of yet, I would recommend a coffee maker like this BESTEK one. It is one I usually always recommend in these articles because it has the programmable timer that I mentioned, and is fairly high quality for the price.
So while I don’t believe that drip coffee is the best way to go, I don’t think it is a bad choice either.
So Which is the Best?
Overall, I think that the Aeropress really wins this one. As I said, the Aeropress has many qualities that make it unique in the coffee world, compared to many other brewing methods. Its large range of versatility and ability to make different types of coffee really sets it apart from most things on the market.
One thing I think may come close to the Aeropress would be something like the Moka Pot. Moka Pots are nice and offer a lot of the same versatility that an Aeropress does.
If you have no other choice, you can’t go wrong with using a drip coffee maker, but there is nothing like the satisfaction of brewing your own coffee and being able to do it quickly. Now, if you are looking for other alternatives to drip coffee aside from Aeropress, I would recommend checking out our article comparing it to percolator coffee.
Aeropress Vs Drip Coffee: What’s the Difference Anyway?
While you may have plenty of familiarity with drip-style coffee, you might also find that you’re interested in what other brewing styles are out there!
With so many brewing options, who wouldn’t want to explore a little?
One of the up-and-coming brewing methods uses something called an Aeropress.
While it might seem like something developed by NASA, it’s really a pretty simple method to try out.
To show you some of the differences available between Aeropress and drip-style coffee, we’re going to compare the two methods.
Read on, and you’ll discover whether you might want to try something new!
Aeropress
Details
Among a number of other brewing methods available today, Aeropress is one that is gaining a decent amount of popularity.
This method includes a small, usually plastic, container that uses pressure to create the finished product.
If you need an example, you can take a look at the Aerobie Aeropress!
In many cases, people find that the process is a little more complicated than others.
However, they also often find that the resulting coffee is well worth the extra work!
You can also find Aeropress coffee makers at a pretty low cost when compared to other options.
In any case, it might take an attempt or two before you feel comfortable with it!
For those who are new to the idea of an Aeropress, it can be a good idea to remember that you can get all the equipment you need to get started for under $40, including the filters!
When compared to a lot of other coffee machines, that’s a highly affordable cost.
You also won’t need to worry about having to search for all the pieces you’ll need.
Many also enjoy the Aeropress because it uses a process of full immersion to allow you to get the best possible flavor in a speedy way.
Pros
- Required equipment is inexpensive.
- Aeropress devices are small and compact.
- Resulting coffee is often very delicious.
- You can have finished coffee in about a minute (after heating up the water!)
- The brewing process is easy to clean up after.
- Aeropress coffee makers are known to be very sturdy.
Cons
- It can be a more complicated process than drip-style brewing.
- This method is only able to make a single cup at a time.
- Filters tend to be a little more complicated than other methods.
Summary
Aeropress is a fantastic option for those who are looking for something that won’t have a high starting cost.
It’s also ideal for those who don’t mind having a little more control over the brewing process.
This does mean you’ll have to be a little more hands-on, but that can be a very good thing!
That said, it is worth saying that there can be a little bit of a learning curve for this method.
Generally speaking, Aeropress containers are also only able to make a single cup at a time.
It’s also a good idea to keep in mind that this option requires specialized filters, and results can be poor without them.
Drip-Style
Details
Drip-style coffee is a method that most of us are more familiar with.
After all, these machines have been used for many years as a primary brewing method.
For those of us who are new to making coffee, a cheap drip-style coffee maker can often mark the entry point to our addiction.
As a result, there are a wide variety of models available, from the cheap, to the programmable, to the massive.
While there are some drip coffee options out there aside from using a drip-style coffee machine, this is the most popular option.
Many also find that there are plenty of ways to play with this kind of coffee brewing.
You can choose to stick to the standard grounds-to-water ratio, or you can play with it to create the best brew for your tastes.
In addition, you’ll be able to make your choice between a standard drip machine or something that can uses single-serve pods.
This choice will really be up to your unique preferences and the amount of control you want over the resulting cup.
Pros
- Drip-style coffee machines can be very inexpensive.
- Programmable machines can get coffee started automatically.
- Brewing is very easy.
- Cleanup is simple, thanks to paper filters.
- You get a lot of coffee options to choose from.
- Capable of making up to 12 or 14 cups at a time depending on the machine you choose.
Cons
- Not the most travel-friendly.
- Some can find resulting coffee isn’t the highest quality.
- These machines do require electricity to run.
Summary
There are plenty of benefits you can get when you choose drip-style coffee.
The machines used for this type of coffee can be found at very budget-friendly prices, and they’re often very easy to use.
You’ll also be able to explore the coffee-to-water ratio to create a brew that suits your tastes perfectly.
However, it is important to keep in mind that most drip coffee makers are going to be electric, so they may not be ideal to take on a camping adventure.
Some can also find that they might not always make the best coffee, but there are definitely ways around that!
Comparison
Ease of Brewing
Neither drip-style, nor Aeropress coffee is particularly difficult to make, but there is a difference in the ease of brewing between the two.
Aeropress coffee will require timing, prep and a small amount of waiting. It’s a process you have to focus on more.
Unlike with a drip-style machine, it’s not an option that you can turn on and leave until the coffee is done.
As a result, it can be better during times when you may not have access to electricity, as it doesn’t require any to function.
However, if you’re looking for something that doesn’t require as much work then a drip-style machine is ideal.
In most cases, you just have to add your water and grounds, turn it on and let it go.
If you don’t mind paying a little bit more, you can also opt for a programmable option that will ensure you get to wake up to a fresh pot of coffee without having to lift a finger.
This can make things a lot easier when you’re rushing around in the morning before work.
If you’re someone who goes camping often, you may even want both devices so that you’re covered wherever you go.
Flavor
There are many who find that the flavor the Aeropress is able to create makes it well worth the added effort.
You can also have a lot of room for experimentation, which means you’ll be able to achieve some different flavor profiles to suit your preferences.
Using the grind size, time spend brewing and water temperature you can really have full control over the process!
As a result, you’ll be able to create a stronger brew if that’s what you prefer, or one that avoids some of the acidity that coffee can have.
On the other hand, some people can find drip-style coffee to be somewhat lacking.
In some cases, it definitely can seem diluted or bland.
That said, you do have options for improving the flavor.
Playing with the water-to-grounds ratio can allow the brew to be stronger or weaker.
Another great option is investing in a quality grinder so that you can brew using fresh beans.
For many, this can make all the difference in the resulting cup.
Unfortunately, you may not have the same level of control over water temperature or timing, but you do have options!
Overall Cost
Naturally, most people care about the costs required for making certain types of coffee regularly.
For those who are on a tight budget, drip-style coffee is likely to be the least expensive.
You can find a drip-style coffee maker for under $20 and all the way up to over $100.
Because of that, those in just about any budget level have options.
Paper filters for these machines also tend to be very inexpensive.
In some cases, you can get a pack of 200 for under $2!
Aeropress coffee makers aren’t terribly expensive either, though they aren’t as likely to be found in the ‘below $20’ range.
In most cases, kits for making Aeropress coffee can be found for $30-$35, which is definitely affordable!
You also get everything you need in the kit to get started, aside from the actual coffee.
That includes some filters, but do keep in mind that they can be more expensive than paper filters once you need more.
That said, there are also reusable filter options out there!
Overall, both of these options are well worth checking out, and come in at great prices overall!