Espresso vs. Filter Coffee: Which is the Best Brewing Method and Why

What is the best brewing method for coffee? It’s an age-old question, pitting espresso vs filter coffee against one another to claim superiority, when really it comes down to what suits your taste and lifestyle best.

Coffee culture is no longer just about lattes and flat whites. Filter coffee has had a major revival, with pour-over counters now as common as espresso machines. So if you want to know which is the best brewing method for your coffee, then we have all the details to make the process smooth sailing.

What is Espresso?

Espresso is one of the most widely known and utilised brewing methods, popular in large coffee shops and for at-home coffee drinkers. Machines range from fully automated to intricate manual adjustments, allowing you to brew a latte, flat white, cappuccino, or Americano to your exact taste.

Espresso brewing takes finely ground coffee and forces it through a portafilter at ~8 bar pressure at an average of 25-30 seconds, depending on your coffee. It typically yields a small 30ml average shot, with a delicious crema on top that can be enjoyed as brewed or with milk.

The flavours produced are typically bold, rich, and layered. Expect smooth body and sweetness, especially in South American coffees.

If espresso is your preference, then you’ll need to invest in a machine and grinder upfront, which can be a high cost. However, over time, your cost per cup will reduce, and the machine will effectively pay itself off in 8-12 months on average, vs buying takeaway coffee every day!

What is Filter Coffee?

Filter (or Pour Over) coffee is a gravity-driven brewing process - think V60, Chemex, Aeropress etc. The method is popular with those who enjoy a slow, leisurely brew, making larger coffee batches, or for single-origin drinkers who want a lighter coffee taste with less acidity compared to espresso. Paper filter brewing methods also remove more diterpenes, making it technically better for blood fats and reducing the risk of type 2 diabetes, according to research by Swedish drink companies.

Filter coffee typically has a coarser grind, allowing for a larger volume of water to pass through and slowly extract all the delicious flavours, roughly 2-3 minutes depending. Single origins are a popular choice for filter coffee, with a light-medium roast that creates floral, fruity, and citrus notes for a softer, vibrant, clean finish in the mouth.

Filter brewers have a more accessible price point and are easy to set up at home, taking up less space. The longer brew method may not be suitable for everyday brewing, however it can create dynamic flavours that are worthy of an afternoon or weekend indulgence - plus it’s a great way to truly identify coffee notes!

The Key Differences of Espresso vs Filter Coffee

A typical espresso (30ml) contains ~60–80mg caffeine; a cup of filter (200–250ml) contains ~100–150mg of caffeine. Espresso is stronger per ml, but filter coffee often delivers more caffeine per serving.

Which Coffee Should You Choose - Espresso or Filter?

If you love a smooth milky drink, classic flavours, and prefer a quicker and more consistent brew, then espresso is for you. If you prefer a slower, mindful experience and enjoy exploring different single origins and processes, the filter will be your best choice.

However, there real is no ‘better’ brew method. The best option depends on your lifestyle, taste preferences, and budget. Start with the flavours you love to drink, then invest in quality beans from a local speciality roaster to craft a delicious cup at homr.

Need some inspiration? Discover our range of coffees here, and shop machines and brewing equipment here.