Whether you’re drawn to the richness of a French press or the cup delivered by a drip coffee machine, knowing the ins and outs of both methods can help you pick the right brew method for any situation.

Flavor profiles aside, the difference between drip coffee vs. French press may run deeper than you think. Let’s explore how each coffee brewing method works to help you determine which is right for your coffee ritual.

How drip coffee works

A steaming hot mug of coffee, freshly poured from a glass or thermal carafe? That classic diner experience is defined by a drip coffee machine. But how is it brewed, and how does that affect the resulting cup? 

The drip brewing process

In principle, three elements separate drip coffee from French press:

● Extraction – Gravity does most of the work here, with hot water dripping over coffee grounds and absorbing their flavors as it does.

● Filters – Paper filters catch oils and finer particles, resulting in a clean, crisp cup with a lighter body. Reusable metal filters are another option if you’re after a more eco-friendly filter coffee experience.

● Automatic or manual – You can typically find both automatic and manual coffee machines, but manual methods like pour-over give you more control.

Drip coffee machines are simple: Add water, measure your ground coffee, and let the drip machine (or a steady hand) do the work.

Pros of drip coffee makers

Drip coffee makers shine for their ease of use and reliability when brewing multiple cups. Key benefits include:

● Consistency – Automatic machines ensure a reliable cup every time, taking the guesswork out of the equation.

● Simplicity – Just press a button and let the machine handle the coffee brewing process.

● Convenience – Many models feature programmable settings like timers, so you can wake up to freshly brewed coffee.

This combination of simplicity and convenience makes a drip machine a go-to option for coffee drinkers who value efficiency.

Cons of drip coffee makers

The trade-off for drip coffee’s convenience? Since the process is mostly automated, you have little influence over brewing variables like extraction time. While this creates consistent cups, it also means most drip brews tend toward lighter, milder flavors.

How the French press works

Imagine a cup of rich, buttery coffee—each sip a full-bodied, robust experience. That’s French press coffee. But how does this small device deliver such a distinct and perfect cup?

The French press brewing process

Rather than extracting coffee with running water (as with most methods), French press brewing relies on unique mechanics:

● Immersion brewing – Coffee grounds soak fully in hot water, usually for around five to ten minutes.

● Coarse grounds – The process works best with coarse grounds to prevent over-extraction and gritty sediment.

● Mesh filter – The French press’s coffee plunger separates the grounds from the liquid while preserving flavorful oils.

Each of these unique elements comes together to create a cup distinct from any other brew method.

Pros of French press brewing

For coffee lovers willing to experiment, the French press offers several advantages: 

● Temperature control – Since you add the water yourself, you can heat it to the perfect temperature for optimal extraction—or use cold water to make cold brew at home.

● Time control – You decide how long the coffee steeps, meaning you can adjust the strength to your liking.

● Rich and full-bodied flavor – The mesh filter preserves the coffee’s flavorful elements, resulting in a robust, complex profile.

This method provides greater control over the brewing process—and results in coffee rich with natural aromatics.

Cons of French press brewing

The French press isn’t without drawbacks. For example, over- or under-steeping can significantly affect the flavor, requiring more precision versus automated methods. Further, the mesh filter sometimes allows finer particles through, which can create a slightly gritty texture.

Comparing flavor profiles and texture

As noted, your chosen brewing method can drastically change the profile of your cup. Here’s how traditional drip coffee and French press stack up:

● Intensity and brew strength – French press coffee stands out for its depth and intensity, capturing darker, roasted notes. Drip coffee delivers a milder, cleaner flavor that’s approachable and versatile for any coffee drinker.

● Texture and mouthfeel – Drip coffee’s paper filter creates a smooth, sediment-free cup. French press coffee, by contrast, has a heavier body and a richer mouthfeel, somewhat like an Americano (espresso with hot water.) 

Two brewing methods, two distinct coffee experiences indeed!

Which brewing method is right for you?

Rich and complex, or clean and convenient? Choosing drip coffee vs. French press often boils down to your taste preferences and lifestyle. 

Here’s a quick recap:

● If you value convenience and enjoy a lighter, cleaner cup, a traditional drip coffee maker might be your best bet. 

● If you love to experiment and savor intense, roasted notes, the French press is an excellent choice. 

If you’re still undecided, remember: There’s no rule against enjoying both! Many coffee lovers keep both options in their kitchen to suit different occasions.

Brew the best of both worlds with Breville

The final takeaway? French press is perfect for those who appreciate a full-bodied cup and don’t mind taking a few extra minutes to prepare it. Automatic drip coffee models are ideal for busy mornings when you simply want coffee quickly and consistently.

Whether you’re team drip coffee or a French press aficionado, the right tools can elevate your brewing experience. 

Breville’s premium coffee makers, grinders, and more are precision-engineered to bring out the best in every brew. Explore our lineup of kitchen appliances to find the perfect match for you.

Sources: 

1. Seven Coffee Roasters. The Step-by-Step Guide to James Hoffmann’s French Press Method. https://sevencoffeeroasters.com/blogs/coffee-101/james-hoffmann-french-press

2. The Kitchn. 3 Common Mistakes People Make When Brewing French Press Coffee. https://www.thekitchn.com/3-mistakes-people-make-when-brewing-french-press-coffee-207337