Comparison
V60 or Chemex: which to choose
V60 if you make one cup for yourself and want to learn. Chemex if you usually make coffee for two or more and want to serve it in the same jug.
Reviewed on 8 November 2026 · As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Head to head
| Hario V60 | Chemex | |
|---|---|---|
| Cups | 1-4 (size 02) | Up to 6 of 5 oz (Classic 6-cup) |
| Grind | Medium-fine (Hario recipe) | Medium-coarse (Chemex) |
| Filter | Hario V60 02 | Chemex, heavier |
| Material | Plastic, ceramic, glass or metal | Borosilicate glass with wooden collar |
| Serves as a jug | No (needs a server) | Yes |
| Difficulty | More pouring technique | Somewhat less sensitive to the pour |
Where the difference is
How much coffee you make
This is the deciding question. Hario’s V60 recipe is for one 250 g cup; Chemex measures in 5 oz cups and its 6-cup model is designed as a jug.
The filter changes the cup
Chemex says its filter is heavier (its listing says 20-30 % more than competitors). It holds back more oils: the cup comes out cleaner and lighter. The V60 leaves a little more body.
Grind
Hario asks for a medium-fine grind; Chemex, medium-coarse. If you’re going to use both, you need a grinder that’s easy to adjust.
Choose Hario V60 if…
You make one cup a day, want to learn technique and spend little to start.
See price on AmazonChoose Chemex if…
You usually make coffee for two or more and want to serve it at the table in the same jug.
See price on AmazonSources
- Hario USA: V60 recipe for one cup (James Hoffmann)
- Hario: V60 instructions (10-12 g per 120 ml, under 3 min)
- Chemex: how to brew (Classic Series)
- Chemex: FAQ
- Chemex Classic 6-cup
I haven't tried all of these products in person. The data come from the manufacturer's website or, when I don't cite one, from the amazon.co.uk listing (each source says which). I write with the help of AI and check every figure against those sources.