The Chemex is the epitome of stylish pour-over coffee gear. But being made of glass, they are darn easy to break.
Speaking from experience, it is a real bummer to crack a Chemex. The thing is suddenly completely useless. What’s more, I was left with a whole bunch of Chemex filter papers leftover.
Well luckily, the Chemex isn’t the only coffee gadget for pour-over brews.
Then again, why just stop at pour-over? There’s a whole world of different coffee brewing methods.
I’ll get into more detail down below and then you can read my reviews of the best Chemex Alternatives available in the USA.
Check out the box below for a quick rundown of the best coffee makers, just click the name and you’ll be taken to their website where you can get some more info and buy yours.
Top 5 Chemex Alternatives
- Best Pour Over Drip Coffee Maker – Bodum Pour Over Coffee Maker with Permanent Filter
- Best Drip Machine – Technivorm Moccamaster 59616 KBG Coffee Brewer
- Best French Press – Bodum Chambord French Press Coffee Maker
- Best Moka Pot – Bialetti Venus Induction 4 Cup Espresso Coffee Maker, Stainless Steel
- Best Pod Machine – Nespresso Pixie by Breville- Titan
1. Best Pour Over Drip Coffee Maker – Bodum Pour Over Coffee Maker with Permanent Filter
Brand: Bodum
Brewing Process: Pour Over
- Stainless steel reusable filter included
- Dishwasher safe
- Choose between sizes of 12 Ounces, 17 Ounces, 34 Ounces, or 51 Ounces
- Accepts paper filters
Are you looking for a Chemex alternative that is essentially a Chemex in every way except for the brand? Look no further than the Bodum Pour-Over Coffee Maker. It works in exactly the same way, and is in essence, a Chemex.
Like a Chemex, the jug has a bulbous base and wide conical neck for the filter to sit. Unlike a Chemex, the Bodum Pour-Over Coffee Maker actually comes with a reusable filter.
If you opt to forgo the reusable filter and use paper filters instead, just like with a Chemex, then I guarantee that if you use the same amount of coffee and water, at the same temperature and grind, in this Bodum then it will taste just like a cup of Java from a Chemex.
This clean and simple, tried and tested design keeps you in complete control over your cup of Joe.
Just pop your ground coffee in a filter in the top, pour hot water through, and you’ll have one darn delicious brew.
The Bodum Pour Over Coffee Maker produces excellent coffee.
It comes in a choice of a variety of sizes and colors to choose from. So you’ll definitely find a style to suit you.
2. Best Drip Machine – Technivorm Moccamaster 59616 KBG Coffee Brewer, 40 oz, Polished Silver
Brand: Technivorm
Brewing Process: Drip
- Copper heating element
- Choice of heat plate temperatures
- Can brew up to 40 ounces (1.25 litres)
- Auto-drip stop, for when you can’t wait for the brew to finish
Are you looking for the epitome of pour-over coffee? Do you want minimal effort without compromising quality? Then look no further than the Technivorm Moccamaster.
Really, a drip machine is essentially an automatic pour-over machine. If you’re looking for an alternative to a Chemex, why not automate the whole brewing process?
The Moccamaster brings an elegant combination of style and consistency to your brew. With volume measurements on the water reservoir, accurate brew temperature control with a copper heating element, and a choice of temperatures for the heat plate to keep your coffee warm, all that’s left for you to do is measure out your coffee and throw it in.
Not only does it bring a modern look to any kitchen, but it also brings the best possible drip coffee brew to your home. When you can’t compromise on build quality, Technivorm steals the show.
Available in a choice of over 25 different colors, there’s a look for any home. With free delivery from Amazon, it’s an easy choice for the best drip machine alternative to a Chemex.
3. Best French Press – Bodum Chambord French Press Coffee Maker, 1 Liter, 34 Ounce, Chrome
Brand: Bodum
Brewing Process: French Press (Immersion)
- Shatterproof carafe option available
- Available in a range of sizes
- Easy to clean up
- Stylish and elegant
When searching for a Chemex alternative, why not get back to basics with an elegant French Press?
Bodum is a leading brand in coffee gadgets and they know how to make an excellent French Press. It takes attention to detail; such as a sturdy filter plunger that fits firmly to prevent sediment escaping, and it has to be easy to clean. To top it off though, it really does seal the deal when the French Press not only performs great, but looks great too.
There’s no need to worry about breaking the glass either. There is an option for a shatterproof carafe for peace of mind.
There is a size perfect for anyone. Choose between a 12 ounce, 17 ounce, 34 ounce, and 51 ounces options. You will definitely be able to make enough for everyone.
Available in a choice of six colors, you will find a style that’ll perfectly suit your breakfast table.
4. Best Moka Pot – Bialetti Venus Induction 4 Cup Espresso Coffee Maker, Stainless Steel
Brand: Bialetti
Brewing Process: Moka Pot
- Stainless Steel
- Works on any kind of stovetop, including induction hobs
- An easy and cost-effective way to make espresso-like coffee at home
- Makes consistently great coffee
Bialetti is the worldwide leading brand in Moka Pots. They stole the show in 1933 when they released their classic aluminum stovetop Moka Pot and have held on to their crown ever since.
Through their expertise over the years, Bialetti has improved and upgraded its design with the Venus Stainless Steel Moka pot.
Stainless steel is an excellent choice of metal for two reasons: one, it doesn’t react with the water or coffee inside it, and two, it works on every kind of cooker or stovetop. That includes induction hobs too.
Moka Pots bring espresso-like coffee to your home with a minimum of effort.
Just pour some cold water into the bottom chamber, below the small valve. Gently fill the middle coffee basket. Screw the top chamber on and stick it on your stove.
As soon as you hear the pot make its classic spurting noise, take it off the heat and enjoy.
It really couldn’t be easier to make a delicious, strong, coffee in the comfort of your own home. With its small and compact design, it even makes a great option to take camping or traveling.
5. Best Pod Machine – Nespresso Pixie by Breville- Titan
Brand: Breville
Brewing Process: Nespresso Pod
- The easiest way to make coffee
- Minimal cleanup
- Programmable brew buttons
- Small and compact design
We can’t forget pod machines, much less the king of coffee pod machines, Nespresso.
Are you looking to have great coffee, as quickly and easily as possible? Sounds like Nespresso is your jam.
These little barista machines heat up in 25 seconds. You just pop a capsule in the top, slam down the lever, and out pours automatic espresso loveliness.
I really like that you can program just the right size of coffee for you. All it takes is holding down one of the two brew buttons for the duration of the pour. The next time you press that button, the machine will remember how long it poured for last time and pour just as long again.
There’s also no need to worry about pod-waste; you can now get reusable pods that you fill yourself.
Just make sure you’ve always got enough water in the reservoir. This eager beaver will try to make you a brew even if it has no water.
Buyers’ Guide
Material
The very material your coffee maker gadget is made of can influence how your brew turns out.
That’s why products, like the V60 for example, offer a variety of materials to choose from. The V60 comes in a choice of stainless steel, ceramic, glass, and plastic.
The material it’s made from can influence aspects like temperature, and can even react slightly with the favor.
For example, a plastic V60 might be the best option in terms of temperature because the plastic won’t absorb as much heat. Although plastic can hold on to odors. Whereas ceramic or glass might have less effect on the flavor but absorb more heat.
Size
Of course, you want to consider how much coffee you are likely to want to make. A massive Chemex can be too much for one person. A simple filter cone, or AeroPress on a mug will probably not serve more than one.
Brew Method
Not all brew methods are born equal.
While there are pour-over gadgets other than a Chemex, why not consider all of the brew methods that coffee has to offer?
There’s no bad brew method and if there’s one you’ve never tried before then you’re in for some treats.
F.A.Q.s
Is Chemex really better?
The Chemex is a great choice if you’re looking for a smoother, less bitter, brew than the likes of a French Press.
That said, the uniqueness of the Chemex is mainly down to the fact that it is a pour-over brew method. So this smooth, mild, sweet coffee brew can be achieved with other pour-over methods such as with a V60.
Is Chemex the same as Pour over?
Chemex is simply a coffee gadget to facilitate pour-over brewing. You can absolutely produce a very similar pour-over brew with other pour-over coffee gadgets.
Other Chemex Alternatives Reviewed
Melitta 36 oz. Pour Over Coffee Brewer with Glass Carafe, Black
Brand: Melitta
Brewing Process: Pour Over
- Accepts regular paper filters
- Versatile: use it like a Chemex or simple filter cone on a mug
- Makes an excellent coffee
- Great budget option
From the brand who famously make some of the best paper coffee filters in the world, Melitta has produced a super simple two-part pour-over system that works exactly like a Chemex. The real plus to the Melitta Pour Over Coffee Brewer is that it is such a versatile design.
Want just one mug? Then only use the filter cone over your mug
Want coffee for others too? Use the filter cone over the glass carafe that comes with it and serve some hot java out to your friends.
Of course, it accepts the regular flat-bottomed filter papers that you find in most supermarkets. So you’ll have no problem finding the right filter papers for it.
It makes a delicious brew. A great choice with lots of adaptability to it.
Hario V60 Coffee Dripper
Brand: Hario
Brewing Process: Pour Over
- Simple and elegant design
- Produces a coffee very similar to a Chemex brew
- Perfect for just one cup
- Small and portable
The king of coffee gadgets in Japan since 1921, Hario, have only in the last decade produced the V60. Although since then, this simple little cone has propelled Hario into worldwide fame.
Why? Because the V60 makes a bloody good cup of coffee.
The simple 60° conical design, without a flat-bottomed design like other filter cones, provides the optimal shape for even coffee extraction. It might sound hard to believe, but this minimalist design is far more effective at brewing java than most might guess.
The spiral ribs on the inner side of the cone ensure there is a small amount of space for coffee grounds to expand into as they become wet and absorb the hot water you’re pouring on it. That way, the filter does not become clogged.
Don’t believe me? Try it for yourself.
It’s available on Amazon in a choice of three sizes, four different types of material, and eight different colors.
DEMMEX 2019-9 Oz Thickest Turkish Greek Arabic Hammered Copper Coffee Pot Stovetop Coffee Maker Cezve Ibrik Briki with Wooden Handle & Wooden Pot Spoon, for 3 People (Antique Copper)
Brand: Demmex
Brewing Process: Turkish Pot (Boiled)
- One of the oldest coffee brewing methods
- Makes a unique and delicious coffee
- Beautiful ancient design
- Perfect for people who love a coffee ritual
Do you like a strong brew? Well, coffee doesn’t get much stronger than with a Turkish Pot.
Little pots just like this, known as a Cezve, are how coffee has been brewed in Turkey and throughout the Middle East long before coffee ever made its way to Europe. This is one alternative to Chemex that I bet you, and none of your friends, have ever tried.
It’s a simple brew process.
Start with just water and a little bit of sugar in the Cezve and bring it to a boil. Once it’s boiling add coffee grounds that have been ground as finely as possible; finer than caster sugar. You could even add some cinnamon or other tasty spices.
You bring it to a boil twice with the coffee in it. Once it has reached the first boil, you can stir it and remove the bubbles if you like. Bring it to a boil for a second time and stir, you can remove bubbles here if you like also (it helps remove bitterness).
Take it off the heat, allow the grounds to settle in the pot, and gently pour the coffee out into cups.
AeroPress Coffee and Espresso Maker with Tote Bag
Brand: AeroPress
Brewing Process: Immersion & Filter
- An excellent portable option
- A world-famous excellent brewing method
- Easy to use and easy to clean up
- Comes with filters and a handy carry bag
The AeroPress is a mad scientist’s evil invention of how to brew coffee. And it works very well.
This funny hipster-toy is really close to just being a giant syringe. While it is advertised as an espresso maker, it’s not exactly an espresso it makes. Espresso is made at pressures of around 9 Bar. The AeroPress can only produce around 0.7 Bar.
Although, if you used a hydraulic press, maybe you could manage more.
The AeroPress makes a brilliant portable coffee gadget. Whether you keep it handy in your office, take it traveling, or even just in a kitchen drawer out of the way; it makes an amazing brew without compromising on space to keep it.
It’s easy to use. Just fill it with coffee and water, leave it to brew for a few minutes, sit it on top of your mug, and press that plunger down.
Final Thoughts
So that’s a solid summary of the best alternatives to Chemex.
Some options are essentially the same design as a Chemex, except by a different brand. Like the Bodum Pour Over.
Some options, like the Melitta Pour Over, build upon the Chemex design and improve it.
Then again, you could go for a complete change of pace by opting for something completely different like a Moka Pot or even a Turkish Pot.
Related Reading
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Chemex vs V60 (Powerful Pour-Over Potions)
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