Filter Vs. Espresso – What Works Best For You?

Here at Cafédirect, we make our coffee tailored to your needs. Whether you need whole beans or ground,filter or espresso, we have you covered.

Choosing what type of coffee you’d like can be a daunting task, especially if you don’t know much about coffee. What’s the difference between filter coffee and espresso coffee? Why should you choose one over the other? We’re here to help you make that decision!

So, What Is The Difference?

There are multiple differences in the brewing technique, the roast profile, even how the beans are ground. These differences make changes to the taste and the speed at which your coffee is ready to drink.

When buying ground beans for your coffee, filter coffee is more coarse compared to the fine grind used for espressos.

Filter coffee tends to be brewed for a longer time. It can also be brewed under external pressure, such as a cafetiere, or by using gravity. Espresso coffee, on the other hand, is made with finer grounds of a blend brewed under pressure, at a higher temperature which makes it quicker and more concentrated. Another key difference is Filter coffee is commonly brewed using beans of a single origin whereas Espresso coffee is typically brewed using a blend of beans.

Filter Coffee

Filter coffee is aptly named as it uses a filter in the brewing process. There are a few different methods and equipment used, including an Aeropress Coffee Maker and a Hario V60 Coffee Dripper.

The aeropress is a quick and easy brewing method, which is easy to clean and maintain. You simply place the filter paper in the cap and secure it to the body, then place the body on top of your cup. Add both coffee and hot water to the body, stir gently and let brew for a few minutes. Once brewed, you insert the plunger and push it down, forcing the coffee through the filter and into your cup.

The Hario V60 coffee dripper is a favourite amongst coffee enthusiasts. It is a cone-shaped funnel that slowly drains coffee through a filter. Simply place the V60 coffee filter in your dripper, rinsing it first before adding your ground coffee beans. Then, pour hot water over the coffee slowly in circular motions and let gravity do the rest as the coffee drips down into your cup.

Filter coffee produces a less acidic coffee and, by using a lighter medium roast, it accentuates the more delicate flavours of the coffee.

Espresso Coffee

Espresso coffee is typically made in a machine and can be drunk as a 30ml shot or can be used to form the base of other coffee drinks, such as lattes and cappuccinos. If you don’t have a coffee machine at home, our Bialetti Moka Express Stovetop Espresso Maker produces a rich, authentic espresso in minutes.

To make your coffee with the Moka espresso maker, simply fill the brewer with water, to the line at the bottom, insert the filter and fill the basket with your coffee grounds. Screw the Moka espresso maker together and place it on a medium heat hob, keeping the lid open. The coffee will then start to bubble into the top section; when this stops, your coffee is ready to pour and enjoy.

Espresso coffee has a thicker consistency than filter coffee, with a richer, more concentrated flavour. The roast profile tends to be more developed and darker, bringing out more robust flavours.

Ready To Make Your Decision?

Whichever desired brewing technique and taste preferences you have, rest assured that you will get a great cup of coffee. Filter coffee and espresso coffee both have their merits and both can fit nicely into your lifestyle.