Is the Aeropress Prismo Worth It? (Solved & Explained!)

The Prismo is an add-on, optional filter for the Aeropress coffee maker which can help to create espresso-style coffee and shots; if you want to be able to use your Aeropress to make espressos, the Prismo may be a valuable addition to your coffee maker. The filter is a great option for anyone who wants more variety in the coffees they are capable of making with their Aeropress, which some people may view as limited in the coffee it can produce.

In this article, we will look at what the Prismo does, whether it is easy to use and whether it is really a worthy addition for coffee making.

Is the Prismo worth it?

Whether you are likely to find value in the addition of a Prismo to your coffee brewing routine will depend on how you want to be able to use your Aeropress. If you want more variety in the coffee you are able to produce with your Aeropress, the Prismo is an optional addition that you are likely to find useful. It is particularly valuable to anyone wishing to produce espresso-style coffees, which the Aeropress is unable to achieve with its original filter.

What is the Aeropress Prismo?

In its original state, the Aeropress is physically unable to produce espresso-style coffee due to the mechanics of the machine. The Prismo is an add-on filter which replaces the original one that comes with the Aeropress and can help to achieve a more espresso-like coffee.

How does the Aeropress Prismo work?

Brewing espresso-style coffee requires a high amount of pressure on the coffee grinds to extract as much flavour as possible and create the specific consistency of espresso, which differs from regular coffee types. Unfortunately, the original Aeropress filter does not create enough pressure. By replacing the original Aeropress filter, the Prismo raises the pressure when brewing to create an espresso-style coffee.

Is the Prismo easy to use?

The Prismo will arrive to you complete with a recipe which explains the best conditions for use, such as water temperature and the ideal coffee grind to use, and describes the best way to use the filter to achieve an espresso-style brew. However, it may take a little practice to work out whether this recipe works for your taste and adjust it to your needs. The Prismo is also noted for making the Aeropress itself more difficult to clean, which can be disappointing given how easy the Aeropress is to keep clean.

Is the Prismo expensive?

The Prismo typically retails at $25. This may seem steep if you are on a budget, especially considering the Aeropress itself only tends to cost around $30 and is often available for even less. However, it is important to bear in mind that the Prismo is not a necessary component of the Aeropress. Instead, it is intended for use by those who enjoy something more specific in their coffee that the Aeropress itself cannot provide.

What are the benefits of using the Prismo?

The main benefit to adding the Prismo to your Aeropress brewing routine is the versatility it can bring to your coffee making. The Prismo filter can be used to create Americanos, iced teas and more coffee types, making it the perfect addition for anyone wanting a little more variety than the Aeropress is able to produce. Many also enjoy the no-drip capabilities of the Prismo, which ensures leaks are kept to a minimum during brewing; this is particularly enjoyed by those who use the inverted Aeropress method.

Are there any downsides to the Prismo?

For anyone on a budget, the Prismo can be expensive for an add-on tool, which is particularly disappointing considering the lack of durability that may come from the Prismo’s notably thin makeup. The add-on of the Prismo can also cause issues for the Aeropress itself; not only is it made more difficult to clean, but its portability is also lacking once the Prismo is added, as other equipment may be necessary and make it harder to use your Aeropress on the go.

Does the Prismo improve coffee?

If you are a fan of espresso-style coffees, the Prismo is likely to improve your experience with the Aeropress. The pressure applied by the Prismo creates a stronger brew, which although not to everyone’s taste is likely to be appreciated by anyone who cannot stand a weak coffee. It is also likely to bring out the tastes and flavours of your coffee, which is likely to improve taste.

Can it be used with any Aeropress model?

The Prismo is compatible with most Aeropress models, however there are some exceptions to this. The Aeropress Go, for instance, will not be compatible with the Prismo, and neither will any of the models made between 2005 and 2009. Any model produced after this date, with the exception of the Go, should be suitable for use with the Prismo.

Do I need the Prismo to use my Aeropress?

The Prismo is not a necessary component of using the Aeropress; you can make a great cup of coffee without the addition of the Prismo filter. If you don’t enjoy espresso coffees or are happy with the coffee you are currently making with your Aeropress, there is likely no need to add the Prismo. If you love espressos and wish to make them at home, it may be a worthy addition to your Aeropress routine.

Are there any alternatives for making espressos?

If you want espresso-style coffee without the price tag of the Aeropress and the Prismo, there are some budget alternatives which you might want to try. If you are someone who enjoys espressos and wants to be able to make them from home on a regular basis, you might want to invest in an espresso maker. You may find more variety when it comes to purchasing an actual espresso machine, and most tend to be reasonably priced.