Hello, coffee enthusiasts! If you’re a fan of pour-over brewing, you’ve probably heard of Chemex, the iconic coffee maker that’s been winning hearts since the 1940s.
And if you’re anything like me, you’ve found it to be a relaxing morning ritual that results in a superb cup of coffee.
But here’s the real question: when it comes to Chemex filters, is it hip to be square, or does the circle take the crown? Let’s find out!
The Filter Face-off: Square vs. Circle Chemex Filters
Chemex offers specially designed paper filters that contribute to that smooth, clean taste we all love. You’ll find these filters in two shapes: square and circle. But what sets them apart?
| Square Filters | Circle Filters | |
|---|---|---|
| Taste | No difference | No difference |
| Compatibility | Not for 3-cup Chemex | Fits all Chemex models |
| Classic Chemex Look | Yes | No |
| Water Distribution | Slightly trickier | Easier, even edges |
The Verdict: At the end of the day, it comes down to personal preference and brewer compatibility. Both filter shapes have their fans, and you can’t go wrong with either.
Why Splurge on a Chemex Filter?
Let’s address the elephant in the room: Chemex filters can be pricier than standard coffee filters. So what’s the fuss about?
- Thicker is Better: Chemex filters are three times thicker than regular coffee filters. This means they filter out excess oils and fine grinds, leaving you with a coffee that’s pure, smooth, and free of bitterness.
- No Filter Fiascos: Chemex filters are larger, providing a secure fit in the brewer. Say goodbye to the dreaded filter collapse that sends grinds into your coffee.
The Art of Folding Chemex Filters
Whether you opt for pre-folded or flat filters, folding is key to a perfect brew. Here’s a quick guide:
- Square Filters: Fold the square filter in half, then fold in half again to form a triangle. Open one side to create a cone with three layers on one side and one layer on the other.
- Circle Filters: Similar to square filters, fold the circle filter in half, then in half again. Open to create a cone, and you’re ready to brew!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- What are some alternatives to paper filters? If you’re looking to go eco-friendly or try something new, there are reusable metal, hemp, and cloth filters available. Each material can impact the flavor and texture of your coffee, so give them a try and see what you like!
- Which grind size is best for Chemex filters? For a well-extracted brew, use a medium-coarse to coarse grind—somewhere between table salt and sea salt size. This should result in a brew time of 1-2 minutes.
Brew It Your Way
We hope this friendly face-off between square and circle Chemex filters has been helpful. Just remember that coffee is all about personal enjoyment, so choose what makes you happy and brew with confidence. Happy caffeinating!
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission, at no extra cost to you, if you make a purchase using these links. Remember to support us by purchasing through the Amazon/Walmart/Impact Radius links provided. Last update on 2024-04-18 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Disclosure: No compensation or free products were received in exchange for writing this review.
Editorial Staff
The editorial staff at Crazy Coffee Crave is a team of coffee enthusiasts & Baristas who enjoy the one thing we all think about as soon as we get up in the morning. Trusted by thousands of readers worldwide.
