Even the filter you use can make a difference. According to research from UC Davis and the Specialty Coffee Association, the two main coffee filter types—cone and flat-bottom—deliver noticeably different results.

This short guide explains coffee filter types and their effect on your daily cup of coffee.

Understanding coffee filters

Coffee filters exist to keep coffee grounds out of your drip coffee. The ground beans sit in the coffee basket filter, and the hot water flows through the ground coffee, extracting their flavor in the process.

But as it turns out, water flows differently through different types of filters. This subtle change in flow can significantly impact the flavor of the finished filtered coffee.

While there are several types of filters that can be used with a drip coffee maker, the two most popular shapes are flat-bottom and semi-conical filters (more commonly known as cone filters). Let’s take a closer look at each.

What are cone-shaped filters?

Cone filters have a wide top that tapers down to a narrow, flat bottom—sort of like an ice cream cone with the tip snapped off. Typically made from food-grade paper, these filters have a flat, unruffled appearance.

The brewing mechanics of cone filters

Because cone filters narrow at the end, the water flows through the ground coffee more quickly, leading to a faster coffee extraction.

The result? Coffee brewed in a semi-conical filter contains more total dissolved solids (TDS) when compared to a flat-bottom filter.1 A higher percentage of TDS translates to a stronger filtered coffee.

What are flat-bottom filters?

Flat-bottom filters are wide and shallow, with ample space for the coffee grounds at the bottom. You’ll often find flat-bottom filters with frilly, folded edges.

The brewing mechanics of flat-bottom filters

Water flows more slowly through a flat-bottom filter, staying in contact with the grounds for longer. Although the flat-bottom shape allows for a more even extraction, the final cup has fewer TDS.

Cone vs. flat-bottom filters: Key differences

Now that you understand the basics of both coffee filter types, we can explore their core differences.

Shape and structure

The first difference you’ll notice between cone and flat-bottom filters is their shape. Conical filters are taller and tapered, while flat-bottom filters have a low, wide profile.

As mentioned, that shape plays a role in flavor extraction.

Flavor profile comparison

Of course, many factors influence flavor, including the origin of the coffee bean, the darkness of the roast, and the grind. As such, isolating the differences caused only by filter type is challenging. But the researchers at UC Davis did it.

Members of the study tasted more of the following flavors in the cone filter-brewed coffee:

● Citrus

● Berry

● Sour

● Complex

Meanwhile, the flat-bottom filter produced more notes of flavors like:

● Dried fruit

● Sweet

● Floral

● Chocolate

● Cocoa

● Wood

Which is the best coffee filter for a better-tasting brew? That’s up to you.

Ease of use and accessibility

In this category, the differences are minimal.

Both filter types are easy to use: Place the paper coffee filter in your coffee maker, fill it with coffee grounds, and run the machine. As for accessibility, cone and flat-bottom filters are equally available at supermarkets and specialty coffee stores.

Choosing the right filter for your coffee maker

Ultimately, choosing between flat-bottom and cone basket filters comes down to your preferred flavor profile. For a sweeter, full-bodied taste, opt for a flat-bottom. Cone filters are best for a more nuanced flavor.

However, there’s a second consideration that may influence your choice: your coffee maker.

Know your machine’s design

If you already have a drip coffee machine, your decision may have already been made. That’s because many coffee maker baskets only work with a specific filter shape.

Be sure to read your product manual to determine which coffee filter type suits your machine.

Matching filter shape to brew style

If you’re in the market for a new coffee maker—or you have a machine that can accommodate both coffee filter types—you have more flexibility with filters.

Depending on the beans you bring home and the mood you’re in, you can adjust your filter type to match. For example, if you’re craving a chocolatey, cocoa-forward iced coffee, you might reach for a flat-bottom filter.

With some experimentation, you can find the filter that best aligns with your preferences.

Enjoy filter flexibility with Breville

So there you have it: The different coffee filter types have a surprising impact on your cup of coffee. Based on your likes and dislikes, you can pick the filter that suits you best.

And if you don’t want to have to pick? Choose Breville.

Breville’s drip coffee makers include flat-bottom and cone filter baskets, so you can brew your coffee your way—every time. Shop our selection of coffee makers today to get started.

 

Sources: 

1. Wiley. Effect of Basket Geometry on the Sensory Quality and Consumer Acceptance of Drip Brewed Coffee. https://ift.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/1750-3841.14696

2. Specialty Coffee Association. Flat vs. Cone: Basket Shape is as Important as Grind Size in Drip Brew Coffee - 25 Magazine, Issue 8. https://sca.coffee/sca-news/25-magazine/issue-8/english/flat-vs-cone-basket-shape-is-as-important-as-grind-size-in-drip-brew-coffee-25-magazine-issue-8