
Coffee making methods are as varied as coffee preferences are. From simple drip coffee makers, to old-school stovetop espresso makers to complicated manual and automatic espresso machines… the options seem to be endless. But if you’ve ever tasted coffee from a classical French press, you know that nothing comes close, both in terms of taste/aroma and ease of preparation. By allowing the coffee grounds to steep before pushing them through a filter, the French press releases natural oils that create a proper, clean coffee taste with a robust flavor that nothing can beat. As a bonus, the whole process takes just a few minutes!
But like any other coffee maker, the French press comes in various forms, sizes and with different price tags. To help you find the best French press for your needs, we’ve spent more than 20 hours on research, testing and editing. The result 15 quality French press coffee makers that make tasty coffee, are durable and easy to use and clean.
The Best French Press
1
Secura Stainless Steel French Press Coffee Maker
Made of top-quality 18/10 stainless steel with rust-resistant properties and silver-like shine, and a 3-layered filter system, the Secura French press not only makes great -tasting coffee – it looks fantastic too. The coffee press’s unique design traps all coffee grounds, including the smallest ones, to produce clean and full-bodied flavor. This is possible thanks to that 3-layered stainless steel filter system that is also easy to disassemble and clean. Importantly, the press has a double-wall construction which not only ensures superior thermal retention (coffee stays warm long after it’s been brewed), but allows you to comfortably hold the cool-to-touch press. However, the handle alone makes the whole coffee pouring business a piece of cake.
There are two sizes available, and the 34-ounce model (1000 ml) seems to be big enough for most coffee lovers. Considering the durability, quality and reasonable price of this stainless steel French press, we’re convinced it’s one of the best ones on the market.
Stainless steel construction
Double-wall
3-layered filter system
Bonus filter screen included for a more refined taste
Cool-touch handle and knob
Dishwasher safe
- BrandSecura
- Model SFP-34DS
- Weight 2.4 pounds
Durable French press that won’t break
Makes pure-tasting coffee with a full-bodied flavor
Keeps coffee warm
Simple to use, easy to clean
Not vacuum-insulated, so cannot keep coffee warm for long periods of time
Filter screens are rather sensitive and need delicate care
2
Bodum Chambord French Press Coffee Maker
Simple and elegant, the Bodum Chambord French press is one of the best-selling coffee makers on the market. Why? For one, Bodum, the Dutch company founded in 1944, has been making top-quality press coffee makers for decades now, so it’s safe to say they have perfected their craft. Two, although it’s made of quality materials and has an excellent filtration system, the press is on the affordable side. The carafe is made of heat-resistant borosilicate glass, while the plunger is stainless steel with a mesh filter. The filter helps extract flavorful oils, while doing a good job of leaving the grounds behind. The press also features Bodum Patented safety lid which keeps the fluid from spilling.
The Bodum French press comes in several sizes and colors, but although the 34 ounce model is marketed as being able to make 8 cups of coffee, in reality, it makes 4-5 cups. Importantly, the glass portion and lid are both dishwasher safe.
Borosilicate glass carafe, stainless steel plunger, plastic handle
Double filtration system
Bodum patented safety lid
Carafe and lid are dishwasher safe
- BrandBodum
- Model 1928-16US4
- Weight 1.46 pounds
The model is one of the most reliable French presses
Brews great-tasting coffee with a robust flavor
Modern design makes the press aesthetically pleasing
Brews fewer cups of coffee than advertised
The handle is a little bit fragile so careful handling is a must
3
Café Du Chateu French Press Coffee Maker
Great-looking French press that makes great-tasting coffee, Café Du Chateau is one of the best budget-friendly coffee makers around. With a 4-level filtration system, including double stainless steel screen filters, spring loaded base and a final top lid strainer, this press makes pure, full-flavored coffee with no grounds every single time. The frame is also made from stainless steel with great anti-rust properties, while the carafe is made of thick, heat-resistant borosilicate glass. The only negative thing about the design of this French press is its housing, or to be more precise, the sharp edges on the handle. While not super-sharp, you can scratch yourself if not careful.
The French press holds 34 ounces of fluid, meaning in theory, it should make around 8 cups of coffee. In practice, that’s more of 4-6 cups, which is still very good. All parts of the press are advertised as dishwasher safe.
Stainless steel housing and plunger, borosilicate glass carafe
4 stainless steel filtration system
Metal handle
Dishwasher safe
- BrandCafe Du Chateau
- Model PKHTWTR46.5
- Weight 1.98 pounds
Brews good-tasting coffee
Easy to use and clean
Comes with detailed instructions which further simplify the proper brewing process
The metal handle has sharp edges, requires careful handling
Although 4-leveled, the filtration system makes averagely clear, pure-tasting coffee
4
Bodum Brazil French Press Coffee and Tea Maker
If you’re looking for a truly affordable French press, definitely check out Bodum Brazil coffee maker. One of the most popular inexpensive French presses on the market, this attractive but simple in design press makes great-tasting coffee. The carafe is made of heat-resistant borosilicate glass, while the body, handle and lid are made of plastic. While plastic is not everyone’s idea of quality and elegance, the plastic on Bodum Brazil’s press is BPA-free and actually looks good, especially the model in black color. The coffee plunger is made of stainless steel, and so is the Bodum’s standard three-level filtration system: stainless steel mesh, a spiral plate on top and cross one down.
Like most French presses, this 34-ounce model is advertised as being able to make 8 cups of coffee, but in reality, it’s 5-7 cups, which is still pretty great. Because most parts are made of plastic, we’d advise against washing the entire press in the dishwasher, although the glass vessel should be safe.
Borosilicate glass, stainless steel plunger and filters, plastic frame, lid and handle
3-level filtration system
The carafe is dishwasher safe
- BrandBodum
- Model 1548-01US
- Weight 1.15 pounds
Inexpensive
Makes great-tasting coffee
Simple design equals easy to use
Delicate plastic body and handle requires sensitive handling
Plastic doesn’t make for a super-attractive French press
5
Coffee Gator Large French Press
Stylish, durable and easy to use, the Coffee Gator French press is the choice of many hard-core coffee lovers. It’s no wonder why – made of vacuum layered stainless steel, this press keeps the coffee hotter for longer –about 60 minutes longer. Plus, its stainless steel double filter keeps all the grounds and sediment out of the drink, making the final product clean and pure tasting. To make the whole coffee brewing and pouring process easier, the press has a cool-to-touch handle that protects the hands. Also, the whole thing is easy to clean – just remove the grounds, rinse out the carafe and other parts of the press, and take a cleaning sponge with light soap to wipe it; then rinse the press – you’re done! If this is too much work for you, you’ll be pleased to hear that many folks put the press in the dishwasher with no issues.
This insulated French press is available in several colors, and as a bonus, it comes with a matching travel container that holds beans or grounds for two full batches.
Professional grade stainless steel
Vacuum layered and double filtered
Double wall insulation
Cool touch handle
Bonus travel container for beans/grounds
- BrandCoffee Gator
- Weight 2.6 pounds
Makes fantastic-tasting, full of aroma coffee
Keeps coffee warmer for longer
Easy to use, the handle is always cool to touch
Durable, with modern design
Not advertised as dishwasher safe
Being that it’s double-walled and vacuum sealed, it should keep coffee warm for longer than an hour
6
Frieling Double Wall Stainless Steel French Press
The Frieling French press may be more expensive than your standard coffee maker, but there’s a reason for that; in fact, there are several reasons, including the double wall construction, efficient double filter system, and highly polished and durable stainless steel material that the entire press is made of. The outer design alone makes this French press one of the most beautiful presses on the market – sleek, modern and sturdy, it’s bound to complement any kitchen décor. But even more importantly, the internal construction makes for an ultra-efficient, highly convenient coffee maker. The two-stage filter, which includes a pre-filter for straining the larger grains of coffee and a second fine mesh for filtering sediment, helps brew pure-tasting coffee that is bursting with flavor. The double wall, on the other hand, helps retain heat, keeping the coffee warm for well over an hour.
The press comes in several sizes, but the 36 ounce model seems to be the most popular as it makes between 4-7 cups of coffee. Because it’s made of 18/10 stainless steel, the Frieling French press is dishwasher safe.
Stainless steel construction
Double wall
Double filtration system
Insulated carafe
Dishwasher safe
- BrandFrieling
- Model104
- Weight 2.6 pounds
Makes great quality coffee
Keeps coffee warm for a long time
Modern, elegant design
Long-lasting construction
More expensive than other presses
Despite a great filtration system, coffee is averagely pure
7
KONA French Press With Reusable Stainless Steel Filter
Stylish, efficient and budget-friendly, the Kona French press is a great choice for folks on a budget. Its unique-looking frame is made from BPA-free plastic, while the carafe is borosilicate glass and the filter stainless steel. The filter actually does a surprisingly great job of straining out coffee grains and sediment – in fact, the filtering performance is comparable to much more expensive presses! Speaking of unique design, the frame is not only attractive but also protective as its insulated, which should help keep both your hands and the carafe safe and sound. That said, the carafe itself is not insulated, meaning it cannot keep your coffee warm for a long time.
Importantly, the Kona is easy to disassemble and is dishwasher safe. The 34-ounce model is perfect for couples and families, but if you’re looking for a cheap, portable travel French press, you’ll be pleased to know that there is a 12-ounce model available.
BPA-free plastic frame, borosilicate glass carafe, stainless steel filter and plunger
3-piece filter system
Ergonomic handle
Dishwasher safe
- Brand IdylcHomes KONA
- Model IDHCN-FP0011
- Weight 14.1 ounces
Affordable
Brews great-tasting coffee
Easy to use and clean
Plastic parts don’t last as long as stainless steel
The carafe is fragile, needs careful handling
8
Kitchen Supreme French Press
If you want an inexpensive yet good-quality coffee maker, give Kitchen Supreme French press a try. Made of 304 stainless steel and German borosilicate heat-resistant glass, this elegant-looking French press is durable, plus makes fantastic-tasting coffee. The filter has 4 levels, so the more filter screens you add, the purer your coffee will be. Also, to trap the aroma and warmth for quite some time after brewing, you can fully seal the lid with a simple twist. Talk about efficiency and convenience! If the low price is worrying you, rest assured this is one quality, durable press – in fact, the manufacturer states that the carafe alone has successfully passed 50 quality inspections.
Being that it’s made of stainless steel and borosilicate glass, the Kitchen Supreme French press is dishwasher safe, although it’s easy to disassemble it if you prefer washing it manually.
Stainless steel frame, lid and plunger, borosilicate glass carafe
Double-incapsulated lid
4 filter screen system
Dishwasher safe
- BrandKitchen Supreme
- Modelks93fp
- Weight 1.8 pounds
Makes full-flavored, pure coffee
Durable and sturdy
Budget-friendly
Easy to use and clean
The handle is plastic and feels a little bit fragile
The carafe doesn’t fit snuggly into the frame
9
Bodum Stainless Steel Travel French Press
If your schedule is jam-packed and you often find yourself with no spare time in the morning, you can make your coffee on the go with the Bodum’s Stainless Steel Travel French Press. Made of top-quality materials, with a comfortable, ergonomic design, this travel coffee and tea mug is perfect for both super-busy folks and hikers and campers. Basically, the press is incorporated into a handy little mug that has a double-wall and vacuum-sealed construction. This means that the mug won’t be hot to touch, plus will keep your coffee warm for a good while after brewing. While the press is made of stainless steel, there is a silicone non-slip grip around the mug that makes it super-comfortable to carry and hold. That said, this is not a 100% leakproof press because of the plunger. So while you can make and take your coffee on the go, you shouldn’t just toss it in your bag or car after you’re done with it.
The press comes in several different colors, and as a bonus, its dishwasher safe.
Stainless steel press and plunger, non-slip silicone grip
Built-in filter screen at the bottom of the plunger
Vacuum sealed
Double-walled
Ergonomic design
Dishwasher safe
- BrandBodum
- Model 11057-565BUS
- Weight 14.4 ounces
Makes great-tasting coffee
Super-convenient for travel
Keeps coffee warmer for longer
Easy to use and clean
Pricey for a travel press
Not perfect at trapping the grounds
10
Espro P7 Stainless Steel French Press
If you’re after that delicious, smooth, yet rich coffee taste and you don’t mind paying a little extra to get it, definitely check out Espro Stainless Steel French Press. This coffee maker is made of stainless steel and features a double-wall and vacuum insulated design which not only keeps the press cool to touch, but your coffee warm too. The filtering system is stainless steel too, and it does a great job at trapping grounds and fine sediment, making the final product pure-tasting. The press is polished and elegant, but even more important, it’s sturdy and durable, guaranteed to last for years.
The Espro French press comes with a useful little gift – a handcrafted bamboo paddle that won’t scratch the press but will make the whole coffee/tea making process easier. Since it’s made with quality stainless steel, the press is also dishwasher safe, although it’s super-easy to dissassemble and hand wash too.
Stainless steel
Double filter system
Double-wall
Vacuum insulated
Dishwasher safe
Bonus bamboo coffee paddle
- BrandEspro
- Weight 3.3 pounds
Makes pure-tasting, flavorful coffee
Keeps coffee warmer for longer
Cool to touch
Easy to use and clean
Expensive
Despite a great filter system, some sediment typically stays
Best French Press Buying Guide & FAQ
Coffee made with a quality French press is incomparable to coffee made with a drip coffee maker – it’s richer in aroma, fuller in flavor and all around tastier. Although superior in quality, this type of coffee is not harder to make – if anything, it’s as simple and quick to brew. But finding that perfect French press for your needs, preferences and budget is no easy task. There are hundreds of products both online and in brick and mortar shops available, making the selection process really difficult for an average consumer. Luckily, you’re in the right place. To help you find the best French press, we’ve not only reviewed 15 great-quality products, but put together a handy little buying guide too. Here, we cover everything you need to know about French presses, including how to find the right one for your needs.
Features to Look for in a French Press
To purchase a good-quality French that satisfies all your coffee drinking needs, it’s important to pay attention to several factors before making any purchasing decisions.
- Material
There are many different French presses – some made of glass, some of stainless steel, others of plastic, and some of a combination of different materials. While there is no best material everyone should be looking for, there probably is the best material for your needs and preferences. Typically, stainless steel and borosilicate glass presses produce better-quality coffee than plastic presses do (not to mention they’re longer-lasting), but as a result, they’re more expensive. So how do you decide – glass or steel? If you want that old-school, beautiful French press design, go for borosilicate glass. These French presses are gorgeous and usually a little easier to work with as you can watch the coffee brew. On the flip side, they’re more fragile. Stainless steel presses are sturdier, more durable and typically retain heat better (although this mostly depends on the design).
- Design
A beautiful design doesn’t always mean a well functioning French press. While the choice between a borosilicate glass and stainless steel carafe is mostly just an aesthetic preference, what matters the most is the overall design of the press: is the handle cool to touch and comfortable to hold while pouring coffee? Does the plunger appear easy to push down or does it seem like it requires some elbow grease? Do the screen filters seem any good at trapping grounds and sediment? These are just some of the questions you need to ask yourself before purchasing a French press. Ideally, you want a French press that is durable, easy to use and clean, that makes great-tasting coffee (whatever that means for you specifically) and keeps it warm for a while after brewing.
- Capacity
French presses come in various sizes, so to pick the right one for your needs, ask yourself how much coffee you want on a daily basis. If you’re good with just one small cup every morning, look for small sized (maybe even travel sized) presses. On the other hand, if you make coffee for several people every day, definitely only look for big sized (34 - 50 ounces models) French presses. That said, even if you don’t typically make coffee for several people, it may be better to get a larger sized French press – it’s easier to fill a big carafe with less water than to brew coffee in a smaller one a few times.
Why You Should Use French Press Coffee Makers
There’s no doubt that coffee made with a French press just tastes better than drip coffee. But why is that? For one, many drip coffee makers rely on paper filters to filter the coffee. This often results in a beverage that tastes, well, papery. Secondly, while the paper filter does a great job at trapping the grounds and sediment, by doing so, it also traps some of the natural oils found in coffee, and as a result, quite a bit of flavor and aroma. A good-quality French press, on the other hand, pours all of the natural oils, flavors and aroma right in your coffee cup every single time. Of course, as a result, a French press cannot (and should not) produce as clear and pure coffee as a drip coffee maker. To a real coffee lover, this is not an issue at all – in fact, pressed coffee, even with a little bit of sediment in it, still tastes better than drip coffee, mostly thanks to its full-bodied, robust flavor.
It should also be mentioned that the French press is one of the most environmentally-friendly coffee makers out there. Since it doesn’t use paper filters or plastic pods and it isn’t plugged into the wall, it creates zero waste (especially if you compost the leftover coffee grounds!) and saves electricity.
Types Of French Press Carafes
There are two main types of French press carafes: glass and stainless steel. Which one is better?
- Glass
A carafe made of glass, usually borosilicate glass, is beautiful and incredibly easy to work with. Some glass carafes have precise scale lines too, making the brewing process a piece of cake even for beginners. That said, a glass carafe is much more fragile than a steel one. While borosilicate glass has some good heat-resistant properties, it’s not heatproof – in fact, many people have experienced their glass carafe breaking due to boiling water (this is usually the case with cheap presses)! Also, glass, borosilicate or not, is not that great at retaining temperature, meaning it cannot keep your coffee warm for a long period of time.
- Stainless Steel
Stainless steel carafes may not be as gorgeous as glass ones (though this is up for debate!), but they’re more durable and better at controlling the temperature of the coffee. This is especially true for double-walled and vacuum insulated stainless steel carafes – not only are these presses cool to touch, they also keep your coffee warm for a long period of time. That being said, no French press will be able to keep your coffee warm for more than a couple of hours at best. Still, this is much better than drinking cold coffee 30 minutes after you’ve brewed it. Stainless steel carafes come with another advantage – they’re way more accident-proof than the glass ones.
Best French Press FAQ:
Q: What is a french press?
A: A French press consists of a carafe (beaker), plunger and filter(s), as well as a few other design elements. Brewing coffee with a French press is easy and takes just a few minutes, so it’s a great choice for folks who cannot or will not spend more than 5 minutes on their morning coffee making ritual. Because French press brewing is an immersion type of brewing (the grounds are directly soaked in hot water), coffee made this way is more flavorful and rich than other brews. It’s also worth noting that French presses are also quite compact, making them ideal for people without lots of kitchen counter space.
Q: What type of grinder should I get?
A: Making coffee with a French press should always be done with medium to coarse coffee grounds. Too fine grounds can easily turn your coffee muddy and gritty. For this reason, it’s best to get a quality burr grinder that grinds the grounds evenly and uniformly in size.
Q: How do I clean my french press?
A: Cleaning a French press is pretty straightforward and easy. Typically, you’ll disassemble the press and either hand wash the parts with a soapy sponge, or put them in a dishwasher. A word of caution: although many French presses are dishwasher safe, it’s almost always better to wash a press manually. This is because the extremely hot water temperature in combination with harsh detergents can damage some of the elements of the press over time. That said, it’s perfectly O.K. to wash a quality French press in a dishwasher from time to time.
Our Top Pick
While all 15 French presses featured in our Top List are fine choices, the Secura Stainless Steel French Press is our top pick. Although very much budget-friendly, this press it incredibly durable, with a great filter system that does an impressive job at trapping the grounds. The result is a consistently clear, great-tasting coffee. Furthermore, the press has a double-wall construction, so it keeps the coffee warm for quite some time after brewing – perfect for folks who don’t always have the time to immediately drink their freshly brewed coffee. Finally, the design itself, including the cool-to-touch handle and knob, is well-designed, modern and beautiful, making this the best French press on our Top List.