Specialty coffee has opened many avenues for coffee enthusiasts. Whether you like different roasts, different underlying notes, or like it hot/cold, there's a specific coffee that caters to everyone's tastes. Fruity or chocolatey, coffee can have all kinds of flavors. 

Similarly, the types of coffee equipment covers a broad range. There are many brewing methods and coffee machines to choose from. Some make it quick, some hot, some thick and dense.

The Aeropress and Chemex are some of the most renowned coffee makers available in the market. Although both are excellent at what they do, here are some factors you could consider to make the choice easier.

History/Background of the Aeropress and Chemex Coffee Makers

Aeropress

Made in 2004 by Adan Adler, a renowned inventor and retired Stanford University engineering instructor, the Aeropress was made to brew a superior cup of coffee. Adler had been studying the coffee brewing process and analysing coffee maker designs. In November 2005, Aerobie, Adler's company, debuted its signature AeroPress coffee maker at a coffee industry trade show.

Chemex

The Chemex is a unique hourglass-shaped pour-over drip-brew tool, the Chemex was invented by Peter Schlumbohm in 1941. Chemex can be found in two different models, one made of borosilicate glass and the other with leather or wooden material.

Aeropress Brewing Guide

With a plunger, plastic filter/paper filters, and housing, the Aeropress is a syringe-like brewing tool. Difficult to break, the plastic makes it quite travel-friendly.

Using an Aeropress is so simple that a child could operate it. All you need to do is:

1. Wet the paper filter, place it inside the plastic one. 
2. Assemble the housing. 
3. Pour in the grounds. 
4. Pour in some hot water, and finally, press down the plunger slowly. 

The whole process takes less than 3 minutes!

Chemex Brewing Guide

The clean and simple design of Chemex, which consists of just a glass vessel and a handle, makes the whole process super easy and won’t take up your counter space.

1. Start by placing a paper filter inside folded into 3 parts. 
2. Rinse it with hot water to make it stick.
3. Add some coffee to the filter.
4. Pour a little hot water into the Chemex and allow a minute or so for the water to drip into the pitcher. 
5. Add any remaining water and let your coffee brew before you dispose of the filter.

Chemex Review

Pros:

1. Control over the brew taste and quality 
2. Rich and clean brews 
3. Available in many stylish models 
4. Available in many sizes 

Cons: 

1. Longer brewing time 
2. Better for skilled coffee makers 
3. Takes longer to cleanup

Aeropress Review

Pros: 

1. Simple 
2. Brews in 3 minutes 
3. More control over the brew
4. Strong and clean brew
5. Easy to operate and cleanup 

Cons: 

1. Mostly available in plastic models 
2. Only 1 size is available in the market
3. Not as aesthetically pleasing

Aeropress vs. Chemex Pricing

When it comes to pricing, the Chemex is a little more expensive than the average drippers available in the market at around $30-$40. This will get you an 8-cup classic Chemex with 100 filters. 

The Aeropress is a little cheaper than the Chemex, retailing at around $30. 

The Aeropress is a great option as it can be used by pretty much anyone. Its de-emphasis on technique and preciseness makes it a versatile coffee brewer that produces consistent, full-bodied cups.

However, the Chemex gives you the ability to control the taste and quality of the coffee you make. The temperature, flavor, grind, and even pouring technique can be customized according to your taste.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve used drip style coffee makers and would like something aesthetically pleasing on your kitchen counter, the Chemex is a foolproof choice. It allows you to make the “perfect” cup of coffee and leaves the definition of that up to you. It’s also more versatile as it comes in different sizes.

The Aeropress is a better choice if you’re just getting into coffee making and aren’t that sure of your palette preference, but are looking for a rich and strong cup. Because of the pressure involved and the filtration process, the texture is quite smooth. However, you’ll only be able to make a cup or two at a time. 

If you travel around and need to take your coffee equipment with you, the Aeropress is a clear winner. It's convenient and portable, unlike the Chemex, which is more likely to break in transport.

Suggested articles: 

https://www.homegrounds.co/chemex-vs-aeropress/

https://www.perfectbrew.com/blog/aeropress-vs-chemex-brand-comparison/

https://www.craftcoffeeguru.com/aeropress-vs-chemex/