For coffee enthusiasts seeking a rich, full-bodied brew, the French press remains a timeless and beloved method. Its simple immersion brewing process allows the natural oils and subtle flavors of the coffee beans to shine, creating a cup that is both robust and complex. Unlike paper filters that can absorb these essential compounds, the metal filter in a French press ensures a truly authentic coffee experience.
With numerous models available, from classic glass designs to advanced insulated versions, selecting the right one can shape your daily ritual. This roundup highlights the best French presses for 2025, focusing on key factors like filtration quality, durability, and thermal performance to help you find the perfect brewer for your kitchen.
Our Top French Press Picks for 2025
- ESPRO – P3 French Press Coffee Maker
- Bodum 34oz Brazil French Press Coffee Maker
- AeroPress Original Coffee Press
- ESPRO P7 French Press Coffee Maker
- Bodum Chambord French Press Coffee Maker
- SterlingPro Double Wall Insulated French Press
- Frieling USA 304 Stainless Steel French Press
- Espro P7 French Press Coffee Maker
ESPRO – P3 French Press Coffee Maker
The ESPRO P3 addresses a common complaint with traditional French presses: sediment and grit in the final cup. Its patented design features a double micro-filter system with two different mesh sizes and silicone seals that create a superior barrier. This system traps bitter coffee grounds and over-extracted coffee at the bottom of the beaker.
You are left with a remarkably clean and smooth cup of coffee that highlights the nuanced flavors of your beans without the sludge. Available in multiple sizes, the P3 is an excellent choice for those who want the full-bodied taste of French press coffee with a significantly refined finish.
Bodum 34oz Brazil French Press Coffee Maker
As an iconic and accessible entry into French press brewing, the Bodum Brazil is a perennial favorite. Its carafe is crafted from high-heat resistant borosilicate glass, which is non-staining and will not alter the natural flavor of your coffee. This allows you to appreciate the true character of your chosen roast.
The brewer’s body, handle, and lid are made from BPA-free plastic, making it lightweight and easy to handle. For those seeking a straightforward, classic French press that reliably produces a flavorful and aromatic brew, the Bodum Brazil is a trusted and effective option.
AeroPress Original Coffee Press
The AeroPress Original is a unique and versatile manual brewer that combines elements of a French press, pour-over, and espresso maker. Its innovative design uses air pressure and micro-filtration to produce a smooth, rich cup of coffee in under two minutes. This method significantly reduces bitterness and acidity.
Extremely portable and durable, the AeroPress is ideal for travel, camping, or the office. It gives you the flexibility to brew a concentrated coffee similar to espresso or a classic American-style cup, making it a favorite among coffee lovers who value speed, flavor, and portability.
ESPRO P7 French Press Coffee Maker
For those who demand both exceptional filtration and temperature retention, the ESPRO P7 is a top-tier choice. Constructed from double-walled, vacuum-insulated stainless steel, this press keeps your coffee hot for much longer than glass models. It incorporates the same effective double micro-mesh filter system as the P3.
This combination ensures a grit-free, smooth cup of coffee that stays at the perfect temperature from the first pour to the last. With a sleek, matte black powder-coated finish, the P7 is as durable and stylish as it is functional, representing a significant upgrade for the serious home barista.
Bodum Chambord French Press Coffee Maker
The Bodum Chambord is often considered the classic standard for French press design. It features a polished and elegant aesthetic with a durable stainless steel frame and handle that surrounds a heat-resistant borosilicate glass beaker. The three-part plunger system is designed for a secure fit and smooth press.
This model is built for both style and performance, offering a reliable brewing process that results in a full-flavored cup. Its timeless design makes it a beautiful addition to any kitchen counter, perfect for those who appreciate a traditional and well-crafted coffee maker.
SterlingPro Double Wall Insulated French Press
The SterlingPro French Press focuses on durability and heat retention with its double-wall insulated stainless steel construction. This design not only keeps your coffee hot for an extended period but also makes the brewer highly resistant to breaks and cracks, unlike glass models.
It is an ideal choice for busy households or for anyone who prefers to savor their coffee over time. The stainless steel build is easy to clean and is designed to withstand daily use, offering great value for a robust and thermally efficient French press.
Frieling USA 304 Stainless Steel French Press
Frieling manufactures a premium, commercial-grade French press built to last a lifetime. It is constructed from heavy-duty, mirror-finish 304 stainless steel with double-wall insulation for superior temperature control. The unique design includes a spring-loaded filter that creates a tight seal against the beaker walls.
This results in an exceptionally clean plunge and a cup of coffee with minimal sediment. Engineered in Germany, the Frieling French Press is a professional-quality investment for those who want unparalleled durability, heat retention, and brewing precision.
Espro P7 French Press Coffee Maker
This model represents the pinnacle of the Espro line, combining advanced filtration with robust thermal performance. The P7 utilizes a double micro-mesh filter system housed within a vacuum-insulated stainless steel body to deliver a sludge-free cup that remains hot. Its large capacity is perfect for serving multiple people.
The attention to detail in the filter design ensures that even the finest grounds are trapped, providing a clean and nuanced coffee experience. For the ultimate in flavor clarity and temperature maintenance, the Espro P7 is a standout option.
Buying Guide: How to Choose Your French Press
Choosing the right French press feels simple, but a few key details make a huge difference in your daily coffee ritual. I’ve broken down the main things I consider when looking for a great French press, whether it’s for my own kitchen or as a gift for a fellow coffee lover.
First, let’s talk about material. This is probably the most important decision. You’ll mainly find glass, stainless steel, and double-walled thermal options. Glass carafes are classic—I love watching the coffee brew. But they can break if you’re not careful and don’t keep heat as well. For durability and heat retention, a stainless steel French press is my go-to. It’s practically indestructible, keeps coffee hot for a long time, and is often insulated. If you’re clumsy, travel with it, or just want your coffee to stay warm, stainless steel is the way to go.
Size is next. French press capacity is measured in ounces, usually referring to the final amount of brewed coffee, not the water you put in. A standard 34-ounce press is perfect for making coffee for two to three people. If you’re brewing for just yourself, a 17-ounce model is ideal. For larger households or entertaining, look for a 51-ounce or even larger press. Remember, you need a little extra space above the grounds for the plunger, so don’t fill it to the absolute brim with water.
Then there’s the filter assembly. This is the heart of the machine. Look for a press with a high-quality, fine mesh screen. Many of the best French press models use multiple filters or a spring-loaded design to create a tight seal against the glass or steel walls. This prevents gritty grounds from ending up in your cup. The rod and handle should feel sturdy; a wobbly plunger is a sign of poor construction. Some models even have replacement filters readily available, which is a nice long-term perk.
Finally, consider the little extras. A comfortable, heat-resistant handle is a must. An insulated lid helps maintain temperature. If you choose a glass press, see if it comes with a protective sleeve or a reinforced frame for safety. Ease of cleaning is also huge—models with dishwasher-safe parts save a lot of time and effort. By thinking about how you’ll use it every day, you can pick the perfect press for your needs. This guide should help you navigate the options for the 8 Best French Press 2025 | BestReviews and find your ideal match.
FAQ
What’s the best grind size for a French press?
You want a coarse grind, similar to breadcrumbs or coarse sea salt. If the grind is too fine, like what you’d use for drip coffee, it will slip through the mesh filter and leave you with a muddy, gritty cup. A coarse grind allows for full immersion and extraction without letting the fine particles through. I recommend getting a burr grinder for the most consistent results.
How long should I steep the coffee?
For a full-flavored brew, I stick to a steeping time of about four minutes. Start your timer as soon as you pour all the hot water over the grounds. After four minutes, press the plunger down slowly and steadily. If you steep for less time, the coffee might taste weak and under-extracted. Steeping for much longer can lead to a bitter, over-extracted flavor.
Is a French press better than a drip coffee maker?
It’s not about one being objectively better, but about what you prefer. A French press doesn’t use a paper filter, so more of the coffee’s natural oils and subtle flavors end up in your cup. This results in a richer, fuller-bodied coffee. A drip machine typically makes a cleaner, lighter-bodied brew. I prefer a French press when I have the time to enjoy the process and the robust taste it creates.
Why is my French press coffee cloudy or gritty?
A little sediment is normal with this brewing method, but excessive grittiness usually points to two issues: your coffee grind is too fine, or you’re pressing the plunger too aggressively. Make sure your grinder is set to a coarse setting. When it’s time to press, do it gently and stop just before the plunger reaches the very bottom to avoid stirring up the settled grounds.
How do I clean my French press properly?
Don’t let the grounds sit! I clean mine right after use. First, discard the used coffee grounds. I find it easiest to scoop most of them into the compost or trash with a spoon before rinsing. Then, disassemble the plunger assembly completely—separate the mesh screens and the spring. Wash all the parts with warm, soapy water, using a brush to scrub the mesh filters thoroughly. Most carafes and some parts are dishwasher safe, but always check the manufacturer’s instructions.
Can I use a French press for anything other than coffee?
Absolutely! It’s a versatile tool. I often use mine to make loose-leaf tea, as it handles the leaves perfectly. You can also use it to make cold brew coffee by steeping coarse grounds in cold water in the refrigerator for 12-24 hours. Some people even use it to froth milk by pumping the plunger rapidly in a small amount of warm milk, or to strain homemade broths and infusions.