Is Chemex Worth the Money? (Solved & Explained!)

The Chemex is a unique coffee maker which is generally considered to be worth the money, although perhaps for a very specific type of coffee lover. Its particular brewing process and distinctive taste mean that the Chemex remains a popular choice of coffee for enthusiasts, even eighty years after its inception.

In this article, we will look at whether the Chemex is truly worth the money, any advantages to buying a Chemex and whether there are downsides.

Is the Chemex worth the money?

Whether the Chemex is worth the money is likely to depend on what you need from it and how you approach coffee brewing. If you are someone who enjoys coffee and does not mind if you have to put some time and effort into brewing your coffee, the Chemex is likely worth the money for you. Its ability to produce a clean, distinct taste which is unique to the Chemex, as well as other advantages, make the coffee maker a worthy addition to any coffee lover’s kitchen.

Is the Chemex expensive?

Part of the reason the Chemex is so appreciated is that the cost is relative to the quality, meaning you get what you are paying for. You may find that the costs involved in the Chemex come from the high-quality filters required, which may be more expensive than regular filters. Extra costs also come from the  need for a specific type of kettle, a gooseneck kettle, which you may need to invest in if you don’t already own one.

Who is the Chemex for?

The Chemex is possibly intended for a certain type of coffee drinker. It is perhaps best suited for someone who genuinely enjoys brewing coffee and sees it is an art form, discovering different ways to brew and uncovering different tastes. Using the Chemex can be a long process and isn’t necessarily the easiest to master if you are new to coffee brewing; it may be a more appropriate choice for someone with a little more experience in the area.

Is the Chemex easy to use?

As we briefly discussed, if you are new to coffee brewing, it may take you a while to master the Chemex as it is not the easiest process for newbies. However, if you have some experience with brewing and are more familiar with the process, the Chemex is likely to be straightforward. It is also likely that the more time and effort you are willing to put into learning how to use the Chemex, the easier you will find it.

What are the advantages of the Chemex?

The Chemex has a lot of advantages, but it really shines when it comes to the coffee it is capable of brewing. The Chemex is thought to be a great option for highlighting the tastes of coffee, finding the nuances in different roasts, and bringing them to the surface for a flavourful and distinctive brew. For this reason, light to medium roasts are considered the best options for the Chemex, which picks up on the nuances of these roasts better than most. The Chemex is also considered a good choice for a clean coffee taste, as the filters are thicker than others and so disposes of unnecessary oils and fats which helps improve the taste of your coffee.

Are there are downsides to the Chemex?

In terms of taste, there are not many downsides to the Chemex. Disadvantages come instead when considering the more practical aspects of purchasing a coffee maker. The difficulty that can come with using the Chemex, as well as the amount of effort it takes to brew, are the first disadvantages to consider. You may also be disappointed with the Chemex if you require a quick coffee maker, as brewing with the Chemex can be a time-consuming process.

Does the Chemex produce good coffee?

The Chemex is generally considered to produce a very good coffee, once the process has been mastered. The roast you use will affect whether your coffee is as good as you want it to be, but the Chemex is more than capable of producing an excellent brew. The Chemex is a great option if you value an emphasis on individual flavours and tastes in your coffee and want something more nuanced and refined than a standard cup of coffee.

What is special about the Chemex?

There are a few things that make the Chemex stand out from the crowd when it comes to coffee makers. The coffee produced by the Chemex is considered by many to taste better than other coffee makers for a few reasons. The unique way in which the filter works produces a great cup of coffee which is typically smoother and less bitter. The Chemex is also made from glass, which prevents other flavours getting into your coffee. It is also noted for its ability to produce nuanced, flavourful tastes and a clean, smooth coffee.

How does it compare to other coffee makers?

The Chemex is typically less easy to use than other options of coffee makers, such as the Aeropress. The process is generally more complicated with the Chemex in comparison to other models. However, when compared to the Aeropress, it is less messy and easier to clean afterward. The Chemex is also capable of brewing up to ten cups at once, which is a great option when compared with the Aeropress’ two cups at once. In terms of aesthetics, the Chemex is also considered better looking than most other coffee makers.

Is the Chemex right for me?

The Chemex produces a very unique, distinct flavour of coffee which may not be right for everyone. If you enjoy clear, nuanced tastes to your coffee, then the Chemex may be the right choice for you. It is also important to consider which brewing method is the best for you. Those who only brew coffee in a hurry or do it out of necessity rather than enjoyment are not likely to appreciate the Chemex’s slow process.