The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Best French Press Coffee Maker: Expert Reviews and Unmissable Black Friday Deals

Imagine waking up in the morning to the rich aroma of freshly brewed coffee, filling your kitchen and invigorating your senses. Nothing compares to the satisfying and robust flavor that a French press delivers. However, not all French presses are created equal, and finding the best one can be quite a challenge. In our quest to help you achieve the perfect cup of coffee, we've put various French presses to the test. From the classic designs to the latest innovations, we'll explore the top contenders and reveal the insider secrets behind our selection process. So, whether you're a coffee connoisseur on the hunt for a new French press or a curious caffeine enthusiast, join us as we dive into the world of the best French press coffee makers.

Oxo Brew Stainless Steel French Press

The Oxo press produced a delightful cup of coffee, surpassing other budget-friendly models like the classic Bodum Chambord or the Secura. However, it didn't quite measure up to the Espro P3 in terms of taste. What really set the Oxo apart was its ingenious addition of a grounds lifter—a silicone disc with a handle that sits at the bottom of the press. Cleaning up after French press coffee can be a messy affair, with stubborn coffee grounds that refuse to come out until you start rinsing the carafe, resulting in an explosion of grounds in the sink. But with Oxo's grounds lifter, it was a breeze to remove most of the spent grounds and discard them. It was the only French press we tested that truly made cleaning easy.

OXO BREW Venture Shatter-Resistant Travel French Press

Bodum Chambord French Press

If you've ever had French press coffee at a cafe, chances are it was served in a variation of the Chambord. Designed in the 1950s, this classic French press features a steel frame and glass carafe that epitomize the traditional aesthetic. For an affordable press, it performs admirably in terms of brewing and filtering, although it falls slightly behind the Oxo due to its lack of a grounds lifter. Bodum also offers a cheaper alternative called the Bodum Brazil, which is priced at just $15 and shares many similarities with the Chambord, except for its plastic cage instead of stainless steel.

Bodum Tribute French Press (discontinued)

The Bodum Tribute is an upgraded version of the Chambord, although it appears to be discontinued. However, at the time of publishing, it is still available as part of a set that includes a blade coffee grinder and a travel mug. Despite its discontinuation, the Bodum Tribute remains an impressive press. The carafe is on the smaller side, which is actually a positive compared to the larger Espro P7. It can make enough coffee for two to three people or provide a substantial amount for those who prefer a larger mug. The sturdy plastic handles stay cool even after brewing, and the plunger, made of mesh and silicone, creates a tight seal to prevent larger grounds from ending up in the mug. The silicone plunger also prevents scratching inside the press and is easier to clean compared to the standard coil and mesh found in most French press brewers. Cleaning the carafe is a breeze, especially with the plain stainless steel model, which is dishwasher-safe unlike the painted versions.

Bodum Tribute French Press

Le Creuset French Press

Le Creuset's unique aesthetic is beautifully showcased in their stoneware French press. The stainless steel filter closely resembles the coil and spring filtration system found in Bodum French presses. The Le Creuset French press delivers a slightly bolder, darker cup of coffee compared to the Espros or Bodum models, but it is still delicious and doesn't have an overly gritty texture. The heavy stoneware pitcher retains heat exceptionally well, making it ideal for keeping your beverage warm for extended periods. Furthermore, it doubles as an elegant serving pitcher for non-coffee drinks. The Le Creuset French press is more affordable than the Espro P7 and offers a wide range of color options, making it worth considering if you appreciate the country house vibe Le Creuset embodies.

Le Creuset Stoneware French Press

Frieling Insulated Double-Wall Stainless Steel French Press

The Frieling French press is highly regarded among critics and boasts hundreds of positive Amazon reviews, praising its luxurious insulated stainless steel body and its ability to produce nuanced, light coffee. We were impressed by the tight seal around the filter, although it did make plunging the carafe a bit cumbersome. There was also a concern that the Frieling's filter might be too effective, resulting in a cup of coffee reminiscent of pour-over brews, lacking the body typically associated with French press coffee.

Frieling Double-Walled Stainless-Steel French Press

SterlingPro

The SterlingPro bears a striking resemblance to more expensive metal presses like the high-end Frieling and is exclusively available on Amazon. Its insulated 18/10 stainless steel carafe feels satisfying to hold and is easy to clean after brewing (although it is also dishwasher-safe). However, the flavor of the coffee brewed with the SterlingPro was noticeably less robust compared to several other competitors, and it allowed a few larger solids to pass through the filter. While it is an affordable option for a stainless steel press, it falls short compared to the quality offered by the Espro P7 and the value provided by the P3.

Secura French Press Coffee Maker

Fellow Clara French Press

Similar to all other Fellow products, the matte black Klara French press boasts a modern and sleek design. It is the only French press we tested that we would proudly display on the kitchen counter at all times, alongside the Le Creuset. However, it has one significant flaw: it leaks. The lid features multiple strainers around the circumference (most lids only have one), resulting in consistent spillage beyond the spout. Nevertheless, the filter effectively prevents grit from entering the brewed coffee.

Varia Multi Brewer

The sleek and compact Varia Multi Brewer offers three different brewing options: French press, pour-over coffee, and Moka pot-style. In theory, it is an excellent brewing device. However, our experience with it was disappointing, especially considering its price. The first issue we encountered was the small size of the carafe. While suitable for brewing coffee for one person, it becomes inconvenient when preparing multiple servings. Additionally, there were an excessive number of coffee grounds floating in the mugs, even after pouring through the spout. We initially thought this might be due to user error, but repeated attempts yielded the same result—the brewer failed to create a proper seal. Unfortunately, the opaque carafe prevented us from visually assessing the problem.

Stanley French Press

The Stanley French press features a vacuum-insulated carafe with a size best described as "Big Gulp." It is most suitable for group camping trips rather than regular household use due to its large and rugged appearance. It brews a rich, dark cup of coffee that pairs perfectly with a dawn campfire and sizzling bacon.

SterlingPro French Press Coffee Maker

Secura French Press

We tested the matte black Secura French press, although it is also available in stainless steel, which is nearly identical to the SterlingPro. It performed similarly to the SterlingPro and came with extra screens for enhanced filtration capability. While it is an affordable option, the coffee produced with the Secura was not as impressive as the Espro P3 and the Oxo, making it fall short as our value choice.

Secura French Press Coffee Maker

Fellow Clara French Press

Similar to all other Fellow products, the matte black Klara French press boasts a modern and sleek design. It is the only French press we tested that we would proudly display on the kitchen counter at all times, alongside the Le Creuset. However, it has one significant flaw: it leaks. The lid features multiple strainers around the circumference (most lids only have one), resulting in consistent spillage beyond the spout. Nevertheless, the filter effectively prevents grit from entering the brewed coffee.

Varia Multi Brewer

The sleek and compact Varia Multi Brewer offers three different brewing options: French press, pour-over coffee, and Moka pot-style. In theory, it is an excellent brewing device. However, our experience with it was disappointing, especially considering its price. The first issue we encountered was the small size of the carafe. While suitable for brewing coffee for one person, it becomes inconvenient when preparing multiple servings. Additionally, there were an excessive number of coffee grounds floating in the mugs, even after pouring through the spout. We initially thought this might be due to user error, but repeated attempts yielded the same result—the brewer failed to create a proper seal. Unfortunately, the opaque carafe prevented us from visually assessing the problem.

Stanley French Press

The Stanley French press features a vacuum-insulated carafe with a size best described as "Big Gulp." It is most suitable for group camping trips rather than regular household use due to its large and rugged appearance. It brews a rich, dark cup of coffee that pairs perfectly with a dawn campfire and sizzling bacon.

SterlingPro French Press Coffee Maker

Secura French Press

We tested the matte black Secura French press, although it is also available in stainless steel, which is nearly identical to the SterlingPro. It performed similarly to the SterlingPro and came with extra screens for enhanced filtration capability. While it is an affordable option, the coffee produced with the Secura was not as impressive as the Espro P3 and the Oxo, making it fall short as our value choice.

Secura French Press Coffee Maker

Fellow Clara French Press

Similar to all other Fellow products, the matte black Klara French press boasts a modern and sleek design. It is the only French press we tested that we would proudly display on the kitchen counter at all times, alongside the Le Creuset. However, it has one significant flaw: it leaks. The lid features multiple strainers around the circumference (most lids only have one), resulting in consistent spillage beyond the spout. Nevertheless, the filter effectively prevents grit from entering the brewed coffee.

Varia Multi Brewer

The sleek and compact Varia Multi Brewer offers three different brewing options: French press, pour-over coffee, and Moka pot-style. In theory, it is an excellent brewing device. However, our experience with it was disappointing, especially considering its price. The first issue we encountered was the small size of the carafe. While suitable for brewing coffee for one person, it becomes inconvenient when preparing multiple servings. Additionally, there were an excessive number of coffee grounds floating in the mugs, even after pouring through the spout. We initially thought this might be due to user error, but repeated attempts yielded the same result—the brewer failed to create a proper seal. Unfortunately, the opaque carafe prevented us from visually assessing the problem.

Stanley French Press

The Stanley French press features a vacuum-insulated carafe with a size best described as "Big Gulp." It is most suitable for group camping trips rather than regular household use due to its large and rugged appearance. It brews a rich, dark cup of coffee that pairs perfectly with a dawn campfire and sizzling bacon.

Discover the Best Black Friday Deals on French Presses

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(Image credit: Espro)

For coffee aficionados, the Espro P7 French press is a standout choice. With its ability to consistently brew a perfect cup of coffee, it is the ultimate indulgence that you won't regret.

The Espro P7 French press is thoughtfully designed with a two-stage filter and an extra tight seal, ensuring an exceptionally flavorful cup of coffee. Available in 18 and 32 ounces, this upgrade will enhance your morning routine.

Exceptional DurabilityThe Espro P7 French press is made of shatter-resistant stainless steel, guaranteeing that it won't break even if dropped. This feature makes it ideal for travel and perfect for those with children. Additionally, stainless steel retains heat for extended periods, so you won't need to constantly reheat your coffee throughout the day.

Superior FiltrationUnlike other French presses, the Espro P7 employs a signature double filtration system, ensuring a smooth and grit-free coffee every time. The double lip seal effectively prevents any residual grounds from spoiling your cup.

Easy to CleanWe understand that cleaning coffee makers is not a favorite task for anyone. However, the Espro P7 French press makes this chore a breeze. It is dishwasher safe, and the seal remains intact even with frequent washes.

(Image credit: Bodum)

The Bodum Chambord French press is a visually stunning coffee maker that deserves a permanent place on your countertops. Dating back to the early 1900s, Bodum is an established name in the coffee world, known for their exceptional quality and unique designs. Whether it's a gift or a treat for yourself, the Bodum Chambord is a personal favorite.

Elegant Design, Easy to UseDespite its intricate appearance, the Bodum Chambord French press is remarkably simple to use. It consists of a glass carafe held securely in a stainless steel frame, which provides added protection against breakage. Its sleek and thoughtful design makes it worthy of a prominent position in your kitchen.

Unparalleled FlavorFrench press-style coffee is renowned for its rich and flavorful brews. The Bodum Chambord takes this to another level, producing a remarkably rich and silky cup of coffee. Following the included instructions to use coarsely ground beans ensures the best results, as finely ground beans can compromise the flavor and pass through the filter.

Eco-Friendly MaterialsApart from its visual appeal, Bodum distinguishes itself with its commitment to sustainability. Their products incorporate natural materials like glass, steel, wood, and bamboo, all ethically sourced. By choosing the Bodum Chambord French press, you're making an environmentally conscious decision.

(Image credit: Fellow)

Continuing the trend of excellence from our best coffee grinders, Fellow presents the Clara French press, designed to elevate your morning coffee experience. This French press comes with smart upgrades such as a 360-degree pour spout, a non-stick interior for easy cleaning, ratio aid lines, and a stunning design that combines form and function seamlessly.

Stylish and Innovative DesignThe Clara French press features a modern cylindrical shape and is available in matte black or with a wood accent. Its design is elegant without being overly complicated. The top can be placed at any angle, and the ultra-fine mesh filter ensures a smooth and full-bodied brew.

Long-lasting Heat RetentionThe Heat Lock Double Wall Vacuum body, constructed from 304 18/8 insulated stainless steel, keeps your coffee hot and consistently delicious long after it's brewed. Additionally, the durable design makes it resistant to accidental drops.

User-Friendly PreparationWhile precise measurements are often crucial for the perfect French press coffee, Fellow has included subtle ratio aid fill lines to eliminate the guesswork. However, for those who prefer accuracy, the recipe recommends using 60 grams of coffee and 840 grams of water. The non-stick interior and one-piece mesh filter simplify the cleaning process. An agitation stick is also provided as a reminder to agitate the coffee for enhanced flavor extraction.

(Image credit: Le Creuset)

With a ten-year warranty and a reputation for producing high-quality products, Le Creuset is an excellent choice. Their products are cherished heirlooms that withstand the test of time, making them worth the investment. In addition to their chic aesthetic, Le Creuset French presses are durable and can handle temperatures up to 500°F.

Timeless Le Creuset AppealRecognizable and distinct, the Le Creuset French press showcases the brand's classic look. The beautiful glaze and vibrant color options make this coffee maker a timeless masterpiece. You can choose from 11 captivating colors, each equally eye-catching.

Versatility at Your FingertipsAside from being heat-resistant, Le Creuset stoneware is safe for refrigeration. Reviewers swear by using it for cold brew coffee, and our own tests confirm that the Le Creuset French press produces irresistible cold brew results. Just remember to use coarsely ground beans for the best flavor.

Unmatched DurabilityStoneware is non-porous and sturdy, ensuring that there are no lingering odors or staining. This feature is particularly advantageous for those who switch between different flavor profiles in their French press. Whether you're brewing coffee or tea, the stoneware preserves the flavors without absorption.

(Image credit: Mueller)

Mueller has earned global acclaim for its exceptional coffee makers, and their French press stands out from the competition. With over 25,000 five-star reviews and counting, this Mueller French press is a testament to its outstanding performance. The included user guide makes it incredibly user-friendly, even for those who are not technically inclined. This versatile and reliable French press is also surprisingly affordable.

Enhanced Heat RetentionThanks to its double-layered design, the Mueller French press keeps your coffee hot for longer. Crafted from professional-grade stainless steel, it is not only durable but also resistant to rust.

Multiple UsesThe multi-layer plunger design makes this French press an excellent substitute for milk frothers, as well as for infusing teas and oils. To froth milk, simply pour hot milk into the press and move the plunger up and down quickly. Be cautious not to fill the carafe too full, as the rapid movement will create bubbles.

(Image credit: Brim)

The Brim French press is a well-designed kitchen gadget that consistently delivers a robust cup of coffee in a short amount of time. Compared to other glass models, the Brim French press is significantly sturdier, thanks to its borosilicate glass construction. This material is less prone to breakage and cracks caused by sudden temperature changes. Additionally, the inclusion of an extra filter ensures continued performance even with prolonged use. Cleaning this French press is a breeze, which is always a welcomed feature.

Perfect for Cold BrewDid you know that cold brew coffee is nearly 70% less acidic than its hot counterpart? The Brim French press is acclaimed for brewing delightful cold brew coffee with an extra smooth and rich flavor.

Convenient Dishwasher SafetyWhile many French presses claim to be dishwasher safe, the Brim French press distinguishes itself by being fully dishwasher safe. This includes the filter lid and the plunger. Reviewers praise the Brim 8 Cup French press as the easiest to clean, saving valuable time and effort.

(Image credit: Stanley)

Although best known for their camping equipment, Stanley also excels in the realm of French presses. The Stanley Stay Hot French press is highly regarded for its ability to keep coffee hot for up to four hours, thanks to its double-wall insulation. Additionally, it is incredibly user-friendly and simple to operate.

Unmatched Lifetime WarrantyWhen a company offers a lifetime warranty, it speaks volumes about their commitment to quality. Stanley's lifetime warranty ensures that you can rely on their French press for years to come. In the unlikely event of any issues, rest assured that Stanley will take care of it.

Unyielding DurabilityStanley is renowned for their rugged outdoor products, and their French press is no exception. Made from stainless steel with double insulation, this French press is incredibly durable and designed to withstand the demands of everyday use. You can trust it to accompany you on any adventure without fear of it breaking down.

Our Method for Selecting the Best French Presses

Our team at Homes & Gardens has carefully considered each factor in our evaluation of the best French presses. We understand the importance of specialty coffee makers like French presses and take into account several key factors. These include ease of setup, the quality of coffee produced, user experience, ease of cleaning, and any unique design features that set the French press apart from its competition. We strive to provide you with the most comprehensive and reliable information to help you make an informed decision.

In conclusion, after conducting extensive research and rigorous testing, we have discovered the top contenders for the best French press coffee makers. These exceptional products are not only designed to withstand the test of time but also to consistently deliver an aromatic and rich cup of coffee. With the upcoming Black Friday French Press deals, now is the perfect time to invest in one of these fantastic coffee makers. Whether you're a coffee enthusiast or simply enjoy a good cup every morning, these French presses are guaranteed to elevate your coffee experience to new heights. So don't miss out on the opportunity to indulge in the perfect brew - treat yourself to the best French press coffee maker today!