# ☕ How does the AeroPress Original Coffee Maker compare to a French press?

*Published: 2024-09-11 | Updated: 2024-09-11 | Source: https://shopsavvy.com/answers/how-does-the-aeropress-original-coffee-maker-compare-to-a-french-press*

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## Product: AeroPress Coffee Maker
**Brand:** AeroPress

If you're torn between choosing an [AeroPress](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3D%22AeroPress%22%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) or a [French press](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dfrench%2Bpress%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20), let's break down how they compare. 

Both are popular among coffee lovers, but they offer distinct experiences. Here's what we found from our research and feedback from people who've used them both. 

### AeroPress Original

**Brewing Method**: The AeroPress uses air pressure, immersion, and a microfilter to brew coffee. This results in a smooth, full-bodied coffee without the bitterness or grit you might get from other methods. It can even make espresso-style coffee and cold brew in about a minute. 

**Speed and Convenience**: One great feature of the AeroPress is its speed. Unlike traditional cold brew methods that take hours, you can get a cold brew in about a minute by using room temperature water instead of hot. 

**Versatility**: The AeroPress stands out for its versatility. You can make everything from espresso-style shots to regular coffee and cold brew. It's a practical choice if you like to mix things up. 

### French Press

**Brewing Method**: The [French press](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dfrench%2Bpress%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) uses a simpler immersion method where coffee grounds steep in boiling water before being separated by a metal mesh filter. This gives you a strong, robust coffee with more pronounced flavors.

**Speed and Convenience**: While it’s not as quick as the AeroPress for cold brew, the French press is still fairly fast. Making hot coffee takes about 4 minutes, but cold brew will still take several hours or overnight, similar to other traditional methods. 

**Simplicity**: The French press is known for its straightforward process. Just add coffee grounds and hot water, let it steep, and press the plunger down.

### Key Takeaways

- **Ease of Use**: If you want quick and versatile, go for the [AeroPress](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3D%22AeroPress%22%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20). It's faster and easier for making different coffee styles, including cold brew.

- **Flavor**: The [French press](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dfrench%2Bpress%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) often gives you a bolder, more robust flavor. The AeroPress, thanks to its paper microfilter, produces a smoother, cleaner cup.

- **Portability**: Both are portable, but the AeroPress is a bit more compact, making it a great pick for travel.

- **Cleaning**: The AeroPress is pretty easy to clean since most parts are dishwasher-safe. The French press can be a bit trickier due to its mesh filter and glass beaker.

In short, if you're after a quick, versatile coffee maker that can handle everything from espresso to cold brew, the [AeroPress Original](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3D%22AeroPress%22%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) is a fantastic option. 

But if you prefer a more traditional method and enjoy bold, robust coffee, the [French press](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dfrench%2Bpress%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) is a solid choice. 

Ultimately, it comes down to what you prefer and how you like to make your coffee.

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*Where this comes from: This answer is based on ShopSavvy's product database, real-time pricing from thousands of retailers, and analysis of user reviews to give you a well-rounded picture.*