SUMMARY: For most coffee lovers, I recommend the 6-cup or 8-cup as the best size Chemex because they offer the best brewing flexibility—small enough for 1-2 people and large enough for 3-4 people. However, there is also a 3-cup model that caters to individual brewing and larger 10 to 13-cup models that best serve large group gatherings. In this post, besides a more in-depth Chemex size comparison, I’ll also cover other considerations such as glass-handle design, wood collar, and the fancy handblown versions.
The Chemex was the first piece of specialty coffee equipment that I ever bought. And, even though I have tons of coffee brewing methods to choose from at home, I still brew on it several times a week. Even when I’m not using it, the Chemex looks classic sitting in the kitchen.
However, choosing the right Chemex size and model requires some consideration. So in this short post, I’ll cover:
- A comparison of the Chemex coffee maker sizes and their best uses
- Handblown series vs the classic Chemex
- How materials can influence the brewing process
- Other key factors that influence your Chemex choice
Continue reading to discover the perfect balance between quantity and quality in your coffee ritual.
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Understanding the Spectrum of Chemex Sizes
Chemex brewers are celebrated for their elegant design and the exquisite coffee they produce, but with sizes ranging from 3-cup to 13-cup, knowing which one fits your lifestyle is tricky.
In my opinion, the most crucial detail to understand is that the 6,8, and 10-cup models all have the same design/shape on the top half where the filter and coffee go. The only difference is the size and shape of the bottom half, for which the larger sizes can fit more brewed coffee. So, brewing differences will be minimal between these models—you can more or less expect the same flow rate and brewing conditions.
What Is the Most Popular Chemex Size?
Features:
- Stylish and elegant one-piece glass design that looks beautiful in the kitchen
- Flexible recipes (including iced coffee options)
- Thick filters (no oils) produce clean flavor that allows the coffee to shine
- The largest size brews 10 cups
- Safe in the dishwasher
The 6-cup and 8-cup models stand out in popularity because they provide a sweet spot for flexibility in coffee brewing. Whether you are catering to a house of coffee lovers or just preparing your morning ritual, these sizes can handle it all. The 8-cup version, which is the model I’ve owned for over ten years, is the best Chemex size in my opinion. Its 40-ounce capacity allows you to brew for large social hangs, but you can still brew 16 ounces for yourself.
What Was the Original Chemex Size?
The Chemex was invented by Dr. Peter Schlumbohm in 1941, and the original size was the 6-cup model, which he first made public in 1939 at the New York World’s Fair. I’ve used a 6-cup model many times, and the primary upside is that it is more compact. If you want to store your Chemex in a smaller space, this original size might be worth it.
Smaller and Larger Sizes
The smallest model is the 3-cup version, and it may be the right choice if you usually brew just for yourself. In my opinion, it would be better to own another pour-over coffee maker such as the Hario V60 for smaller brews and save your Chemex for larger gatherings. However, the Chemex’s thick filter does make a unique brew, and I totally understand if you want that classic Chemex flavor clarity in a 1-3 cup size.
Read More: How To Choose a Pour-Over Coffee Maker
On the large side, the 10-cup Chemex holds 50 ounces and can easily serve a large crowd. The 10-cup model is less practical for everyday use. However, if you’re picturing impressing a group of friends at your next brunch with delicious Chemex coffee, it might be the ideal size for you.
What Is the Largest Chemex Size?
The largest Chemex model is the whopping 13-cup model that can brew up to 65 ounces. However, it only exists as the more expensive handblown series. I’ve never brewed on this largest Chemex size, but I would say it is not worth the price. For that many people, just brew a second Chemex on one of the other sizes.
Other Factors to Consider When Choosing Your Chemex
Putting size aside, you also have to choose between other details in the design of the Chemex itself. Choices range from the iconic classic model with its polished wood collar and leather tie, to the sophisticated handblown renditions, and finally to those featuring a glass handle, each one having its pros and cons.
For example, the all-glass handle design replaces the traditional wood collar and leather tie with an ergonomically shaped glass handle. The all-glass handle not only provides a modern twist but also simplifies the cleaning process. Without the wood collar, these models can typically be more easily washed, sometimes even in a dishwasher, adding convenience to their use.
However, I wouldn’t say these distinctions affect the coffee brewing much, so you can rely on whatever seems aesthetically pleasing. I always recommend the classic look of the wood collar since it has a more artful appearance, and you can feel connected to the original Chemex. But, let’s check out some of these different models side by side:
Chemex 6-Cup Wood Collar Classic Series
- Non-porous Borosilicate glass
- Wood collar with leather tie
- 30 oz. capacity
- Works with filters FP-1, FC-100, FS-100, FSU-100
Chemex 6-Cup Glass Handle Series
- Non-porous Borosilicate glass
- Glass handle instead of wood collar
- 30 oz. capacity
- Works with filters FP-1, FC-100, FS-100, FSU-100, Filters not included.
Chemex 8-Cup Hand Blown Series
- Croatian handblown artisan non-porous Borosilicate glass
- Wood collar with leather tie
- 40 oz. capacity
- Works with filters FP-1, FC-100, FS-100, FSU-100
Handblown vs Classic Series Chemex
Besides size, you also have to choose between the classic Chemex and the handblown series, which are usually twice as expensive. Handblown models are made by skilled glass blowers in Croatia and have a much more artful and beautiful design.
I’ve never brewed on a handblown Chemex, however, I did see the one on display in MOMA and it is stunning. If you can afford it, why not go for the extra aesthetics? Otherwise, it does not affect the brewing quality at all.
Kettle Considerations
Another critical element to take into account is the kettle size you plan to use for boiling water. Like any pour-over coffee brewing, you will get the best results with a gooseneck kettle since it gives you precise control over the pouring. Pouring gently and evenly over several minutes is key to achieving the optimal extraction of flavor from your coffee grounds.
So, if you do not own a gooseneck kettle, you should make sure that your kettle’s spout can accommodate the opening of your chosen Chemex model. I do not recommend using a standard kettle with the small 3-cup model.
The Pros and Cons of Large vs. Small Chemex Models
I covered most of the pros and cons of the different Chemex sizes above. Typically, I only recommend the 6 or 8-cup models because they strike the perfect balance between individual and group use. However, they do come with the downside of brewing a minimum of 12-16 ounces—if you try to make less coffee with those models the water flow and brewing will not work correctly.
**Read More: My Go-To Chemex Recipe**
Conversely, 10-cup and 13-cup Chemex models are too large and clumsy in my opinion. However, they can cater to larger crowds for anyone who is regularly in that situation—no need to brew again and wait for a second batch. Nevertheless, these larger versions can be cumbersome to handle and annoying to store.
Chemex vs Other Pour Over Drippers
With those pros and cons in mind, I hope it makes sense why I think the best Chemex size for most people is the 6-cup and 8-cup models. This middle ground balances convenience and capacity, making them the go-to sizes for most coffee drinkers. They are the most practical solution for the majority of brewing scenarios.
Pros
- Stylish and elegant one-piece glass design that looks beautiful in the kitchen
- Flexible recipes (including iced coffee options)
- Clean flavor (no oils) that allows coffee to shine
- The largest size brews 10 cups
- Safe in the dishwasher
Cons
- Expensive compared to other drippers
- Can’t brew small amounts
- Must use Chemex filters
- Annoying to clean by hand
- Glass can break when traveling
Since you’re looking at the pros and cons of a Chemex, let’s check out the features of other top pour-over drippers and how they stack up against the Chemex:
Features:
- Ceramic, plastic, or copper materials
- Sleek design
- Steep 60-degree angle = more flavor
- Used by many World Brewer’s Cup winners
Features:
- Ceramic, glass, stainless steel, and copper materials
- Simple design
- Three holes for easier draining
Features:
- Aesthetically beautiful
- One-piece hourglass design
- Polished wood collar with leather tie
- Brew up to 10 cups
- Thick filter= clean taste
Final Thoughts on Chemex Sizes
In short, the best Chemex sizes for most coffee lovers will be the 6-cup and 8-cup models. I recommend the 8-cup size since you can brew smaller amounts (2 people) while still being able to adapt to larger groups (4-6 people).
Whatever size you end up choosing, be happy that you will be owning the most classic piece of specialty coffee brewing equipment!
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FAQs
What is the ideal Chemex size for an individual user?
The 3-cup Chemex is considered ideal for individual users, providing a perfect balance between efficiency and capacity for personal brewing. Its smaller size ensures that you aren’t wasting coffee or countertop space, yet still allows you to enjoy the quality and ritual that Chemex is known for.
How much more does a handblown Chemex cost compared to the classic model?
A handblown Chemex generally costs more than double the price of a classic model. This price difference reflects the artisan craftsmanship and the high-quality materials used in the handblown models, which some users find to be worth the additional investment for their aesthetic and functional appeal.
Why is borosilicate glass preferred for coffee brewing?
Borosilicate glass is preferred for coffee brewing due to its low thermal expansion coefficient, which means it’s less likely to crack when exposed to temperature fluctuations. This makes it durable for daily use with hot liquids, maintaining the integrity of taste while ensuring the brewer’s longevity and safety.
Can you use a standard kitchen kettle with any size of Chemex?
Yes, a standard kitchen kettle can typically be used with any Chemex size. However, it is difficult to brew on the smallest size if you do not own a gooseneck kettle. Gooseneck kettles are often recommended for their precision, giving the user the most control over water flow and extraction.
Is it worth investing in a larger Chemex for occasional group gatherings?
Investing in a larger Chemex, such as a 10-cup or 13-cup model, can be worthwhile for those who frequently entertain guests or have larger group gatherings centered around coffee. While less practical for everyday use in smaller households, the larger models are excellent for serving multiple people without the need to repeatedly brew several pots.
