Is Inverted AeroPress Better? (Solved & Explained!)

To some people an inverted AeroPress provides better coffee and more options for experimentation. But, others prefer the nice, clean taste the traditional, upright way provides. Regardless, there are some good and valid reasons for wanting to the invert an AeroPress.

Using an AeroPress the inverted way means you setup the device upside down. There are a few risks doing things this way but there are also a host of benefits. Not least of which is the ability to increase extraction time for a richer, bolder tasting cup of coffee.

How Does Inversion Vary from the Traditional Method?

The major and most obvious difference between brewing with the inversion versus the traditional method is how you approach the brewing process. As the name suggests, you will start with your AeroPress upside down.

Traditional Method

For the traditional way of brewing AeroPress coffee, you remove the plunger from the brewing chamber, attach the filter cap loaded with a moistened paper filter and place it over your cup. You then pour in the grounds and then add water. Once you’ve finished brewing, you put in the plunger and press it down.

Inversion Method

But, for the inverted method, you will literally turn the AeroPress upside down. You start with the plunger’s end resting on a flat surface, with the brewing chamber over it. The rubber tip of the plunger will be about halfway in; nearest the center of number four.

You then pour in your grounds, add the water and then put on the loaded filter cap. Next, simultaneously grab the chamber and the plunger, keeping your thumbs free. In one quick motion, flip the AeroPress over your cup and depress the plunger.

When Did the Inverted Method Start Becoming Popular?

Estimates place the inversion method with an AeroPress beginning sometime in 2008, just three years after its introduction to the market. After holding World AeroPress Championships for baristas, the inversion option became widespread. Many people swear by this method.

Does the Inversion Method Immerse Grounds for Longer?

Yes, by the very nature of how you execute the inverted method lends itself to extracting the grounds for a much longer amount of time. On average, it takes about 60 seconds to make a cup of coffee using the traditional method. The inverted way will be at least 1½ to 2½ minutes.

This is ideal for those who love a bolder tasting cup of coffee that’s richer with more texture to it.  

Is the Inversion Method Difficult to Do?

It can be a little awkward to perform the inversion method with an AeroPress at first. But, once you get the hang of it, it’s hassle-free and fairly simple. But, it does take a certain presence of mind with a little gumption. If you’re not the kind who’s awake and perky in the morning, you may want your first cup the traditional way before trying it.

Therefore, the inversion method is for those who understand their AeroPress device in and out. It gives you a way to play and experiment with coffee and try something different.

Does the Traditional or Inverted AeroPress Coffee Taste Better?

It’s important to remember that coffee taste and texture will heavily impinge on a person’s preferences. For those who like the least bitter and smoothest cup of coffee they can get, the traditional method provides a perfect brew.

But, some people prefer the heavier, richer and bolder flavor out of coffee grounds. In this case, the inverted method will be best. The cup is dense with a full-bodied taste.

What Kind of Coffee Roast & Grind Is Good for an Inverted AeroPress?

The best kind of roast to use with the inversion method for the AeroPress is either light to medium roast. In regards to the type of grind, it’s advisable to go with a medium to coarse grind. But, that depends on what type of coffee drink you want to make.

For instance, if you plan on doing the quick version of cold brew, then you’ll want to use a finer grind with a darker roast. This will ensure you get the most amount of extraction in the shortest time possible.

Which Is Better for Making Coffee Drinks: Traditional or Inverted AeroPress Method?

Both the traditional and inverted methods of using an AeroPress can produce café-style coffee at home. The method in and of itself lends itself for an espresso-like coffee that’s very versatile, quick and ideal. You can make anything from lattes to cold brew and beyond!

That said, there are some coffee drinks the traditional method can create whereas the inverted way is better for many others. The extended immersion time is the defining factor.

Which Coffee Drinks Are Best with an Inverted AeroPress?

Any kind of coffee drink can be great from an inverted AeroPress. This will be particularly true when you want a bitter tasting cup of coffee with a brighter profile. Certain espresso drinks such as a latte, cappuccino, flat white or mocha require the special crema that results after brewing in a machine.

The crema is the foamy, bubbly top that results after the pressurized water comes into contact with heavily compacted grounds. The crema is what helps to make latte art possible along with the appropriate overall texture of the drink.

Cold Brew

While cold brew is possible with either the traditional or the inverted method, traditional allows for a better cold brew extraction. Inverted, it may not stay stable for the 12 to 24 hour way.

There is the signature quick way by AeroPress; stirring it for a minute with room temperature water. Even though many people say it helps with this process, others report no difference.

Comparing Inverted to Traditional AeroPress Brewing Methods

	Inverted	Traditional
Brewing Time	1½ to 2½ minutes	60 seconds
Suggested Grind	Medium to Coarse	Fine to Medium
Suggested Roast Type	Light to Medium	Medium to Dark
Taste & Flavor	Rich and bold	Light and smooth
Skill Level	Experienced User	Beginners