If you’re on a quest to find the best filter for your AeroPress coffee maker, you may be wondering – what’s the difference between paper and metal?
With all of the different options on the market, it can be tough to choose the right one. But don’t worry, we’re here to help!
In this article, we’ll compare paper and metal AeroPress filters, so you can decide which is the best option for you.
What Are AeroPress Paper Filters?
AeroPress paper filters are specially designed filters that fit inside the AeroPress coffee maker. The filters are made of a type of paper that is very fine, allowing only the coffee grounds and water to pass through while filtering out any other particles.
This results in a cup of coffee that is clean and free of any sediment or bitterness. The paper filters also help to preserve the coffee’s natural oils, resulting in a richer flavor. In addition, the AeroPress paper filters are compostable and reusable, so you can save money in the long run by using them over and over again.
The filters are BPA-free and safe to use, and they’re also environmentally friendly since they’re made of paper.
What Are AeroPress Metal Filters?
The AeroPress metal filter is a reusable filter that is made of stainless steel. Unlike the paper filters, the metal filter does not absorb any of the coffee’s oils. This results in a cup with a more intense flavor, as well as a higher concentration of caffeine.
The metal filter is also easy to clean – simply rinse it out with water after each use. However, it is important to note that the metal filter will need to be replaced eventually, as it can become clogged with coffee residue over time.
Although the company doesn’t sell metal filters, there are a few different brands that make them. This is because AeroPress Inc. believes that the paper filters are the best way to brew coffee with their coffee maker since they result in a cleaner cup of coffee.
Get this free cheat sheet to step up your coffee game and learn about the different grind sizes!
AeroPress Paper Filters Pros and Cons
Now that you know a little more about each type of filter, let’s take a look at the pros and cons of using paper filters with your AeroPress.
Pros:
1. The paper filters preserve the coffee’s natural oils, resulting in a richer flavor.
Brewing coffee with an AeroPress paper filter will result in a cup that is full of flavor. This is because the paper filters do not absorb any of the coffee’s natural oils.
The science behind paper filters is that they are designed to let water pass through while trapping coffee grounds, oils, and other particulates. This means that all of the coffee’s flavor ends up in your cup creating the perfect AeroPress crema!
If you also rinse the filter with warm water before brewing, it will help to further improve the taste of your coffee.
2. The paper filters are compostable and environmentally friendly.
Another great thing about paper filters is that they are compostable. This means that after you’re done using them, you can simply throw them in the compost bin instead of the trash. This is a much more environmentally friendly option than using metal filters or disposable coffee filters.
3. Paper filters are very cheap and easy to find.
As you already know, paper filters are very cheap and easy to find. You can usually find them in the same aisle as the coffee at your local grocery store. The Company (AeroPress Inc.) also sells them on its website.
4. They can be used multiple times.
Paper filters can be used multiple times before they need to be replaced. This means that you’ll save money in the long run by using paper filters instead of disposable coffee filters.
Cons:
1. They can be costly in the long run.
If you like to brew coffee multiple times a day, paper filters can be costly in the long run. This is because you’ll need to replace them more often than you would with a metal filter.
Most people only brew coffee once a day, so this may not be a big issue for you.
2. They can add a paper-like taste to your coffee.
If you don’t rinse the filter before brewing, the paper can add a paper-like taste to your coffee. This is because the paper filters are designed to absorb flavor from the coffee.
3. They can be a little messy to use.
Paper filters can be a little messy to use because they tend to disintegrate when wet. This means that you’ll need to be careful when handling them. If you are not an experienced coffee drinker, we recommend using a metal filter.
Read Also: AeroPress Tips And Tricks For Better Coffee
AeroPress Metal Filters Pros and Cons
Let’s go now and take a look at the pros and cons of using metal filters with your AeroPress.
Pros:
1. You only need to buy one!
Unlike paper filters, metal filters can be used over and over again. This means that you’ll save money in the long run by using a metal filter instead of paper filters. Of course, you need to care for your metal filter and make sure you clean it regularly.
2. Stronger Cup of Coffee
Because metal filters are denser than paper filters, they will allow less of the coffee oils and cafestol to pass through. This results in a stronger cup of coffee with more body. If you like your coffee on the stronger side, then using a metal filter is a good way to achieve this.
This can be both a benefit and a drawback depending on your personal preferences. You can also try the inverted AeroPress method with your metal filter.
3. Better for the Environment
Since metal filters can be reused, it’s better for the environment than using paper filters. This is because you’re not throwing away used paper filters every time you make coffee.
Cons:
1. Can be Difficult to Clean
Cleaning a metal filter can be more difficult than cleaning a paper filter. This is because coffee oils can build up on the metal filter and make it harder to clean. If you don’t clean your metal filter regularly, it can start to affect the taste of your coffee.
2. May not remove the coffee oils
While metal filters do remove some of the coffee oils, they don’t remove them all. This means that you may still end up with a cup of coffee that has a bit more body than you would like.
3. May Require More Pressure
Since metal filters are denser than paper filters, you may need to apply more pressure when brewing your coffee. This can be a bit of a challenge if you’re not used to it.
Also, your AeroPress might not be able to create enough pressure to properly brew your coffee if you’re using a metal filter. This is something to keep in mind if you’re thinking about using a metal filter.
AeroPress Filters Alternatives.
We have discussed the differences between paper and metal filters. But what about other filters?
There are a few alternatives to paper and metal filters that you can use with your AeroPress if you are in a rush and don’t have any of these two with you.
1. Cloth Filters.
Cloth filters are made from cotton or other materials. They work by trapping the coffee grounds while allowing the coffee to pass through.
Cloth filters usually need to be rinsed before use. This is to remove any impurities that might be in the cloth.
They can be a bit tricky to use. This is because they need to be tight in order to work properly. If they’re not tight enough, the coffee grounds will end up in your cup.
2. Dish Towels.
Dish towels can be used as an alternative to cloth filters. They’re usually made from cotton or other absorbent materials.
The benefit of using a dish towel is that you don’t have to rinse it before use. Just make sure that you clean it after each use.
The taste will not always be as good as if you were using a paper or metal filter. This is because the dish towel has a lot of surface area. This means that more of the coffee oils and cafestol will be able to pass through.
3. Reusable Tea Bags.
Reusable tea bags can also be used as an AeroPress filter alternative. All you need to do is cut open a tea bag and empty the contents. Once you’ve done this, you can simply rinse the tea bag out and reuse it as an AeroPress filter.
This can be more expensive than using paper or metal filters. But it’s a good option if you’re looking for an environmentally friendly alternative.
Read Also: Pros And Cons of the AeroPress in 2022
Frequently Asked Questions
Do metal filters work in AeroPress?
Yes, metal AeroPress filters work just as well as paper filters. In fact, many people prefer metal filters because they are reusable and produce a cup of coffee that is stronger than coffee made with a paper filter.
The only downside to using a metal filter is that you have to clean it after each use. Overall, though, metal filters are a great option for anyone who wants to make delicious coffee without contributing to the wastefulness of disposable paper filters.
Is a paper filter better than a gold filter?
When it comes to coffee filters, there are a few different options to choose from. Paper filters are the most common type of filter, and they’re also the cheapest. Gold filters are a bit more expensive, but they’re reusable. So, which is better? In my opinion, a paper filter is better than a gold filter.
Paper filters are more effective at removing impurities from the water, and they’re also easier to dispose of. Gold filters can be reused, but they need to be cleaned regularly, and they can eventually become clogged with oils and other coffee particles. So, if you’re looking for the most effective and efficient way to filter your coffee, a paper filter is the way to go.
Are metal or paper coffee filters better?
It depends on what you’re looking for in a coffee filter. Metal filters tend to be more durable and have a longer lifespan, while paper filters are more affordable and easier to find. Paper filters also allow for a more thorough filtration of the coffee, meaning that fewer grinds end up in your cup.
On the other hand, metal filters provide a stronger cup of coffee since more of the coffee’s oils are retained. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference.
Can you reuse AeroPress paper filters?
Like most coffee paper filters, AeroPress paper filters can be reused around 5 times before they need to be replaced. Just make sure to rinse them off after each use and store them in a clean, dry place.
After a few uses, the filters will start to lose some of their absorbency, so you may want to experiment with different brewing times and amounts of coffee to get the best results. Ultimately, it’s up to you how many times you reuse your filters – just remember that they’ll eventually need to be replaced.
Last Thoughts
So there you have it – all the differences between AeroPress paper and metal filters! We hope this article has helped clear up any confusion and that you are now better equipped to make a decision about which type of filter is best for you.
Keep in mind that both types of filters have their own set of pros and cons, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference. If you’re still not sure which filter to choose, we recommend trying out both options and seeing which one gives you the best results.
Evelina
Evelina’s passion for coffee could never been hidden. Having worked as a barista, she learned the true value of the coffee bean and its secrets. As she continued to evolve as a barista, so did her knowledge, techniques on making different coffee blends and most importantly how to operate every kind of gear when it comes to coffee. Having a degree in biomedicine and being a barista, allows her to provide our community with in-depth knowledge surrounding the topics of coffee.
Get this free cheat sheet to step up your coffee game and learn about the different grind sizes!
