Compact, versatile, and surprisingly powerful, the AeroPress has become a cult favorite among home brewers, travelers, and even competitive baristas. Its unique design allows for a fast, clean cup with intense flavor—and the best part is, it’s easy to learn and endlessly adaptable.
In this guide, you’ll discover how to use the AeroPress step-by-step, learn about the standard vs inverted method, and pick up tips to help you brew your best cup, no matter where you are.
What Is an AeroPress?
Invented in 2005 by Alan Adler, the AeroPress is a manual coffee brewer made of durable BPA-free plastic. It uses air pressure to push hot water through coffee grounds quickly, producing a strong, smooth cup with low acidity and little bitterness.
It’s perfect for:
- Fast, single-cup brewing
- Compact and portable coffee on the go
- Experimenting with variables like grind, ratio, and brew time
- Making coffee that’s somewhere between drip and espresso in strength
What You’ll Need
- AeroPress brewer (chamber, plunger, filter cap)
- Paper or metal filter
- Freshly ground coffee (medium-fine to medium grind)
- Hot water (80–90°C / 175–195°F)
- A gooseneck or standard kettle
- Spoon or stir stick
- Timer
- Scale (optional, but recommended)
- Mug or carafe
The Standard AeroPress Method
This is the easiest way to get started.
Step-by-Step:
- Insert filter into the cap, rinse with hot water, and screw onto the AeroPress chamber.
- Place the chamber on a sturdy mug or carafe.
- Add 14–18g of coffee (about 1 AeroPress scoop), ground medium-fine.
- Pour in hot water up to the “1” or “2” mark, depending on desired strength.
- Stir gently for 10 seconds to ensure saturation.
- Insert the plunger and press down slowly and steadily for 20–30 seconds.
- Serve and enjoy!
This method makes a clean, bold coffee similar to espresso or a strong drip.
The Inverted Method
Favored by enthusiasts, the inverted method offers more control over steep time and reduces leakage.
Steps:
- Insert the plunger into the chamber, forming a base, and stand it upright (upside-down).
- Add your ground coffee (15–18g) to the chamber.
- Pour in hot water up to your desired level.
- Stir and let it steep for 1–2 minutes.
- Attach the cap with filter, then flip the brewer over your mug.
- Press gently and slowly for 20–30 seconds.
- Taste the difference—often richer and more full-bodied.
Recommended Coffee-to-Water Ratios
You can adjust your strength to taste, but here are a few starter ratios:
| Style | Coffee | Water | Brew Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mild brew | 12g | 200ml | 60 sec |
| Classic | 15g | 240ml | 90 sec |
| Strong shot | 18g | 120ml | 90–120 sec |
The AeroPress allows you to dilute after brewing, just like an Americano.
Tips for Better AeroPress Coffee
- Use fresh, quality beans and grind right before brewing
- Start with medium-fine grind, then adjust based on resistance and taste
- Use filtered water for best results
- Rinse the paper filter to remove papery taste
- Don’t press too fast—slow pressure = smoother cup
- Experiment with temperature: lower temps reduce bitterness
- Clean the AeroPress immediately after use to prevent buildup
Paper Filter vs Metal Filter
- Paper filters produce a cleaner cup with little sediment
- Metal filters allow more oils through, resulting in richer body and a slightly bolder taste
- Both are excellent—it depends on your flavor preference
Why the AeroPress Is Perfect for Beginners
- It’s affordable and doesn’t require electricity
- It’s portable, ideal for travel and outdoor adventures
- It’s versatile—you can brew espresso-style shots, Americanos, cold brew, and even lattes
- Cleanup is quick: eject the puck, rinse, done
Bonus: Cold Brew with an AeroPress
Yes, you can cold brew with an AeroPress!
- Add coffee and cold water
- Stir and let sit for 12–24 hours in the fridge
- Press into your cup or bottle for cold, smooth, and low-acid coffee
Final Thoughts: Small Device, Big Possibilities
The AeroPress might look simple, but it’s one of the most capable and creative coffee tools you can own. Whether you’re new to coffee or looking to explore new flavors, this compact brewer gives you control, consistency, and flexibility—all in under 2 minutes.
So grab your AeroPress, play with the method, and find your perfect recipe. Great coffee is just one press away.