Pretty sure caffeine is the thing that calms us down. My family complains that I'm a gremlin that scowls and hisses at everyone before my morning coffee. I don't remember doing any of that though.
What you don't see is that he's actually running between three different sets, providing audio and video one frame, and a handful of audio samples at a time. None of the items he's holding up actually has time to begin falling whilst he's doing this...
One of the things I love so much about watching James is that he openly admits if and when he messes up and explains the impact of it. He's so upfront.
Hey James I've been following you for a few years now and I just wanted to acknowledge that your editing, aesthetic, and content has improved SO much and continues to get better
@@lauriegonzalez2827 thanks for the tip! I've already tried most methods though, I'm just offering my input for the people who may not explore much beyond James
@@graysoncho3221 think the Aeropress is a lot more common in the US, its not like you can just buy one in a supermarket in the UK like you can a french press or if your lucky a pour over
Recently become a rather big fan of this channel after years of being preoccupied with strong coffee rather than good. 30 or so videos binged later, I recall I have a neat looking book about coffee, half forgotten on a shelf that a sibling-of-an-ex once gave me for Christmas (all she knew about me was that I liked coffee). So I grab it out while watching yet another of James's videos. "This book looks nicer than I remember" I thought, looking at the Hessian style cover. One double-take later; it's The World Atlas of Coffee by the good sir here and my mind is slightly blown.
Similar thing happened to me, had the book bought for me years ago, I read it and subsequently forgot about it. Then, years later I discover James here on YT, and a few weeks ago I came across the book once again when clearing out a cupboard and was rather surprised, to say the least lol
I had a similar experience of being given a very interesting mathematics book for Christmas the year before I went to university. When I came back home after a few months, I realised that the book sitting on my shelf (with the name of the author in massive letters) had been written by one of my lecturers.
Something that I've learned about coffee is that once you get into grinding your own coffee and experimenting with brew methods, you're just getting slight variations of really good coffee. It's easy to start obsessing over minor details and telling yourself that it's a huge difference, when it's really not. All of these brewers are just slight variations that have very little impact on the coffee you're brewing. Good beans and good grinders are by far the biggest factors in the end result.
Does anyone else just really appreciate how thorough and real James is always trying to be? It is something you don't see super often anymore. Don't get me wrong I love coffee, but I think I watch the videos for the break that I get from watching him express his passion, and secondly I watch for the info. haha.
Yes, very sincere and only focussing on the matter he talks about, not on dragging all the spotlight on himself. Feels so relaxing in a world full of dysfunctional egos.
I think he probably used a fishing wire to hang them and then just masked it out in post-production, but I totally agree it was pretty damn satisfying!
Looking at it again, I think you guys are right! I think I maybe see a little bit of green screen reflection on the edges as well, I didn't catch that the first time watching :0
Just a small note regarding your conclusion about the Origami: it comes with a choice of base! The wooden one is definitely more beautiful, but because it’s a completely round opening it definitely makes it harder to be level and stable. The plastic one doesn’t always look quite as nice, but it does have little ridges in it that fit to the dripper, keeping it much more level and upright. It’s also a lot easier to clean, compared to wood!
You can also find a no brand wooden one with notches which does a perfect job of keeping the dripper level. I use an origami often but the original wooden base is kind of a joke.
It was a very hard choice to not get the wooden base when I ordered but I really do think the ridged plastic should be the default option. I haven't run into any of that leveling faff in hundreds of uses.
@@JonathansCoffeeJournal The plastic base wasn't an option until recently iirc. When I got my Origami last year it wasn't an option at least. I ended up making my own notched base from acrylic and have been quite happy with the outcome.
Completely agree with the sentiment about each brewer not being better than the other! Understanding the principles of how each work and how other brewing variables can be tweaked to achieve a similar cup are so much more important. Great video, James!
It would've been cool to have a (perhaps ceramic, to be consistent with the other brewers) V60 thrown in the mix as a control. I'd be curious to see whether you could pick out the V60 coffee from the mix or not.
I tought the exact same thing! Where’s the V60 in all of this?! Would’ve been nice as a sort of baseline.. and would James be able to pick it in the Line up? …Propably not though..
With the Origami brewer: the wood base is very pretty, but they also offer a plastic resin base that is more practical. The hole in the plastic base is serrated, so the brewer effectively self-levels when you insert it, and the serrations sort of lock it in place and prevent it from sliding askew.
The origami is such a hit in some parts of the world since 2019 WBrC when Ms. Du used it to win her championship title; one of my favourite roasters did an ad campaign with her which show case the origami brewer as well. It's just so aesthetically pleasing.
Great video. I'd have liked the hario thrown in as a baseline. Would have given us at home a reference we're all familiar with for how these might differ from what we're used to. Fantastic info though thank you
I agree, the Hario would have made a good 'control'. I think the main take away from this vide is if you already have a Hario then you don't need any of these.
Eloquent articulate and succinct. James, you’re not just creating the best coffee content but some of the outright best content available anywhere. Thank you so much, it’s fascinating learning from such an engaging expert!
Yep. Like Turkish coffee where they stick it in hot sand to heat it up instead of using a kettle, which is pretty inventive in the pre-electric world. Most places just used fire. But yeah, where do you get hot sand from in the UK 😂
@@duffman18 Get a wok with a flat bottom (no true wok, I know), fill it with sand and put it on the stove. That should be the closest to using hot sand.
I've been collecting brewers for about 20 years. I have most of those brewers plus another 10 or so and one I designed myself. In the end they are all very different but what ever one you spend the most time with you undoubtedly will probably enjoy that coffee more. Enjoy the experience, be creative about it, be meditative about it. There is no perfect brewer, no perfect recipe just great experiences ☺️. Excellent review.
Dunno if you will see this, but it would be awesome if you could go into which one is easier to get consistent results. Some people are just getting into pourover, and selecting one that they can get consistent results would probably be helpful. I absolutely love the stagg x, it's easy to get repeatable results, and the set with the carafe is just awesome
So i was terminated from my job of 2 years last night when i showed up for my shift. Found your channel when i got home and I have binge watched like 20 of your videos then saw you just uploaded, and it has been a good escape from having to think about what the hell im going to do now... and how im going to afford a espresso kit lol. great content man!
@@HAM-qi6de Got a lead on some decent job options, so i'll be fine. Gotta stay positive. I've been through worse. (i used to work nights so i had nobody to share the shitty situation with.) I gotta say it was a weird move by me to decide to post a comment on youtube about it.) but hey throw a comment into the void you might just get some positivity back. thanks man!
The story of many of us: We discover a James Hoffmann video, we watch 50 hours of his videos in the space of two weeks, we are ashamed of our previous coffee habits. Optional extra: we spend 80% of our spare income on coffee things.
The Fellow Stagg [X] is finally back in stock today, perfect timing! Just ordered one after viewing this video and reading Jonathan Gagné's blog post about it. Thanks James!
I'm so glad you tried the Origami brewer with both the V60 and Kalita Wave filters. I really think it is the king of flat bottom brewers, because the ribs align so perfectly with the Kalita papers, it is possible to perfectly place them in unlike with other brewers which can often make the papers twisted during rinsing.
Some say that the outline of his left nipple is exactly the same shape as the Nurburgring, and if you give him a really important job to do, he’ll skive off and play croquet. All we know is he’s called the Stig. 🙃
Might be worth mentioning that the Origami also has a plastic base that has a star shape in the middle, which results in it holding the brewer more level. The wood option looks lovely, but the plastic is more effective.
Your videos are so important. Watching your videos, I have learned so much about this beverage I fell in love with many years ago. Few years have passed now, since I spent my college life drinking pre-ground coffee. My life changed when I bought a blade grinder and I started using it daily to grind coffee. I’m having the best coffee I’ve had in my life these days. That reminds me, here’s a challenge for you - Buy a small bag of BRU coffee. It is preground. It is 80-20 (maybe even worse) coffee-chicory. That’s what I used to buy when I was desperate back in the day. Those were good days. What used to wake me up wasn’t the caffeine. It was the taste.
As always, a very nuanced and fair review! I love that you are able to conclude each brewer is capable. Instead of narrowing the world of coffee, that kind of attitude really opens things up. The fun in coffee is experimenting and getting it right for you as an individual, and you are extremely capable of keeping doors open for everyone in that respect. Thanks!
Would have been super cool to look at the Origami own papers, but as you said it's a complicated enough test! I have one and a V60 and tend to go for Origami for sweet cups and V60 for fruity/acidity cups :) Thanks again for the videos
It’s James „the beautiful jumper wearing, shopping spree inducing, everyone’s favourite coffee nerd“ Hoffmann with a new video again. Thanks for keeping such an extremely high quality standard for your content over the years! Been enjoying every single video so far!
For what it's worth (very little, seeing as I'm a random youtube video commenter), when I saw the Ode on his counter, I hoped he'd say he's using the SSP burrs in them, and when he did, it made me giddy. The SSP burrs take the Ode from an average and frustrating $300 filter grinder to a fantastic, nearly perfect $480 multi-purpose grinder (able to do espresso very well, but not recommended because of weak motor). I'd also love to hear more from him on the modded Ode!
I'd also like to see a video on this! There was a very detailed/informative post a few weeks back on r/espresso by u/idylo (not suggesting it be used for espresso) that already has me tempted but all the talk of the V1.1 and possible V2 Fellow burr upgrades have me waiting.
Loved this video quite a bit! I really appreciate how this is a testament to the versatility and depth that coffee has. I firmly believe there is no singular “right way” to brew and this video only reassures that belief.
My Clever Dripper and I were watching this video and feeling smug. Since switching to it, the coffee brewed is so much more consistent and delicious. My days of regular pour overs are done. Filtered-immersion brew is the way to go.
@@ktsung91 That was my initial thought, but on closer inspection, my guess is the objects are resting stationary on a green screen backdrop while the camera pans over them. Maybe a rail was used to achieve a consistent pan, but if the pan was done hand-held, that's even more impressive.
@@JonGardner I'm guessing they used a stationary camera, and a stationary background, and had the brewers sit on something like a lazy susan. The lighting inside them changes throughout their motion so I think they're spinning, not being panned past.
@@WandelLander think there resting on something green at a 45-degree angle ontop a lazy susan . notice how we only see a partial rotation never seeing the bottom side of the brewers.
Would you be interested in doing a video on the (many) different CAFEC filter papers and even comparing them to Hario’s current paper? CAFEC used to manufacture for them before they switched paper sources and I think it would be an interesting comparison.
Loved watching this. Thanks for being honest about the brewers! Helps me to see the different brewers go head to head yet also be so different that it's impossible to compare one to the other.
I think one of the great thing with the Origami dripper, you can use V60 style filter, and Kalita wave filters, and it altering the taste. It is my favorite to use. The ability to shift between flatbed and cone shape in one brewer is a nice touch.
A very nice thing to do would be to do a competition between maybe 6 baristas each specialized in one particular brewer, give them the same beans, and taste the result, it would be very nice to watch, especially if you have guest like Patrick for April brewer ^^ Just an idea even tho it is almost impossible especially during this time
Super interesting findings. Really would have loved to see the Blue Bottle Dripper in there. I have a v60, Kalita Wave, the Fellow, and the BBD; and some weeks I’ll switch for fun. I’ve been amazed at how time after time the BBD outperforms the others. If you can get one, I’d encourage to you give it a spin.
Amazing video!! I love how thorough you were with the 2 rounds of testing using consistent vs customized technique. Thank you! As for the thought experiment channel ged, I think you can hack most brewers to tweak the extraction closer to your preference. For me the winner is the brewer that can do that most efficiently (both ease of use & accessory cost wise)
I just found this channel and can't stop watching. I didn't realize that filters and brewing cones made such a big difference. I've got some exp coffee gear but have been using bamboo paper filters with a cheap Bed Bath and Beyond cone. I thought it was just the coffee I was using that im not satisfied with. Now I have to rethink the whole thing all over again
I would be interested to hear how the flat-bedded brewers compare to the Kalita Wave. I enjoyed the comparisons of the cone-shaped brewers to the V60, but I think a lot of people would find it useful to know how the flat-bedded brewers relate to what is probably to most popular dripper in that category.
Me too. I was thinking of buying a new dripper and I was a bit torn between a couple of these and Kalita Wave. So the video seemed like a godsend until I noticed Kalita is just chilling there on the shelf!
My favorite thing with James' videos is that for as knowledgeable as he is and just his sheer level of expertise surrounding all things coffee, he isn't jaded or snobbish about any of this stuff. He still understands that no matter what at the end of the day, if it's something you're drinking and making for yourself just do what makes you happy and you enjoy the most.
Lots of mention of the December Dripper, but it wasn't in the video. Are you planning a video with it later, or a comparison video with it and the Espro? Inquiring minds want to know...
James, I have the Stagg XL, which allows one to make coffee for two or three people. The container for the paper filter is taller. The metal ring is to sit on top of the paper to guide the water around into the coffee rather than going down between the filter and metal wall. The glass carafe also has a lid to have the coffee sitting in the breakfast table. I like that about it.
Very enjoyable and informative video. I’ve have both the Fellow Stagg [X] and the April Brewer ( I also own a V60 and a Chemex). I’ve been using the April Brewer the most. I agree with you, James, about the April Brewer cup gets hot, a handle would be nice, but I’m very happy with the set . Both the April and Stagg make excellent coffee. :)
James, you mentioned that you swapped the burrs on the Ode for SSP burrs. Have you noticed an improvement with the new burrs? At that point it's nearly a $500 grinder, so how well would you say it stacks up against other grinders in the price range?
Hey James, I've been trying to experiment and understand the effect grind size has on the dosage. I was wondering if you would be interested in putting up a video explaining the science and logic behind the same and how one should adjust their grind size to suit the amount they want to brew (say ranging from 150ml-500ml). Would really be very helpful!
Awesome to see this video today. I have been following the Coffee with April channel for a while and it is nice to see them having a shout out from you James! Patrik and his team do really make great videos with tons of interesting and useful information. The reasons behind Patrik’s brewing technique can be heard in many of their videos. I have been interested in the April brewing kit for a while and I can now be even more confident in spending my money on it after this video. Another note on the April brewer: they have just released their custom paper filter (which is a little bit difficult to get a hold of as of the time of this comment), but it will be interesting to see you revisit this brewer in the future with more in-depth review of their technique and paper filters. Love your videos as always, James!
My sister-in-law brought me one of these back from a trip she look a few years ago along with a few bags of local coffee. Very strong but Delicious. Especially with condensed milk
Just strted brewing with a V60. Been really impressed and it's such an easy no fuss way of getting good coffee. I'm using the Timemore C3 grinder and the results have been excellent.
The espro looks like the December , but it's brewing technique is a world different . It can brew super fine and get the highest extraction over any other . On another note .. I can't wait to see you review the tricolate
I've had the origami dripper for a few months now and it's my favorite brewer I've owned, feels a good bit more flexible then some of the others. Worth noting that, the main benefit I find with the Origami, and one which you pointed out as being a design flaw, is that it can be used without the wood base. It just means in the morning, I can place the origami without the base, straight onto my flask. My flask has quite a narrow mouth (which is annoying in itself), where most drippers won't fit but the Origami fixes that for me.
Would like to see a cross over of Jonathan Gagne and this channel performing fringe coffee experiments. A mix of sciency, data driven and entertaining content all at the same time.
The fascinating and engaging content continues! Qualities of your videos that have me subscribed for as long as you continue to make videos? Empathy, your relentless and inspiring enthusiasm, and a scientific approach, such as your methods (and their explanation) for breaking down the comparison, here. Love it!! Best, Mike
Is great to watch how James is open minded and is for any coffee experiment you can possibly think of. Hopefully Eureka Mignon grinder review is coming soon ......
I have had the Stagg XF for a little over a year. Like James mentioned for literally half a second, it really helps keep higher temps brewing(especially if you preheat). Way better for lighter roasts(which is part of the reason James had a good time brewing with it on this video). One negative for the XF - It is hard to get brew time under 4 minutes... always coming in just after 4 unless I tinker with the flow rate/paper. If I increase the grind size cup tastes a bit empty. So long story short if you are debating between the X and XF, go for the X for the quicker extraction to keep that brew time under the 4-minute mark! And for all the Chemex lovers out there, I prefer the Stagg XF slightly over my Chemex. Cheers!
I love the discussion of the differences between the different brewers; there is nothing wrong with the conclusion, “none of these brewers are particularly deficient, I might have ground the beans a bit finer to increase extraction for some of them”. This kind of video really helps me to improve my framework for how to approach coffee brewing.
Haha. Not the first time I hear that too. On european coffee trip Channel they concluded its a bit awkward to brew with without better results than the v60, it's just better for pics.
Props to the intro. Really good stuff! Definitely huge improvements in the video quality of the channel over time. To answer your question on what brewers I think need to be compared...why not go with drippers that are considered fundamental, but use completely different geometries? I'm talking about a head-to-head between the wedge Melittas/Kalitas (101/102), the flat-bottomed Waves, and the ubiquitous V60. :)
James is the most calm caffeinated person I know 😂
I'm almost certain that all of these videos are edited to be played at half speed :p
😂😂😂
::thunder crack, lightning::
...
For now...
::narrows eyes::
Pretty sure caffeine is the thing that calms us down. My family complains that I'm a gremlin that scowls and hisses at everyone before my morning coffee.
I don't remember doing any of that though.
What you don't see is that he's actually running between three different sets, providing audio and video one frame, and a handful of audio samples at a time. None of the items he's holding up actually has time to begin falling whilst he's doing this...
One of the things I love so much about watching James is that he openly admits if and when he messes up and explains the impact of it. He's so upfront.
that intro was wonderful
Hey James I've been following you for a few years now and I just wanted to acknowledge that your editing, aesthetic, and content has improved SO much and continues to get better
Thank you! I'm trying!
The audio mix is so satisfying!
@@jameshoffmann ah wow, I thought you had an editor.
I do have some help on assembly edits, and occasionally use pro editors for things like Grinder Week where there was too much video to get through.
@@jameshoffmann Did you do the intro sequence with all the drippers yourself?
With the increased production quality of Jame’s videos, this Aeropress ultimate brewing tutorial is going to be a Hollywood-level movie.
Who the devil is Jame?!
I would go to a movie theater during a pandemic to see that film
It's going to be a Netflix series with an expanded universe. And we're all waiting with abated breath.
@@Grogeous_Maximus if your breath abates you might pass out.
@@bbmcgee33 Stop! I'm crying 😂😭👍🏻
James in the thumbnail is like: I've heard someone is waiting for an aeropress tutorial? lemme present you... six interesting coffee brewers
Yep he’s really teasing, the aeropress is just right behind his shoulder at the back.
@@JTFII a lot more people have an aeropress than a syphon, so it may not be as interesting to watch but it is a lot more practical
@@graysoncho3221 try the method of the 2019 Aeropress winner using 2 filters.
@@lauriegonzalez2827 thanks for the tip! I've already tried most methods though, I'm just offering my input for the people who may not explore much beyond James
@@graysoncho3221 think the Aeropress is a lot more common in the US, its not like you can just buy one in a supermarket in the UK like you can a french press or if your lucky a pour over
Recently become a rather big fan of this channel after years of being preoccupied with strong coffee rather than good. 30 or so videos binged later, I recall I have a neat looking book about coffee, half forgotten on a shelf that a sibling-of-an-ex once gave me for Christmas (all she knew about me was that I liked coffee). So I grab it out while watching yet another of James's videos. "This book looks nicer than I remember" I thought, looking at the Hessian style cover. One double-take later; it's The World Atlas of Coffee by the good sir here and my mind is slightly blown.
Similar thing happened to me, had the book bought for me years ago, I read it and subsequently forgot about it. Then, years later I discover James here on YT, and a few weeks ago I came across the book once again when clearing out a cupboard and was rather surprised, to say the least lol
I had a similar experience of being given a very interesting mathematics book for Christmas the year before I went to university. When I came back home after a few months, I realised that the book sitting on my shelf (with the name of the author in massive letters) had been written by one of my lecturers.
I just spent almost 25 minutes watching a man review six near-identical cone-shaped objects.
I dont even like coffee
@@AlmondFisk lmaoooo
@@AlmondFisk Same. I only drink mochachinos. However, I've learned how to make better ones.
and you did enjoy, didn't you?
@@ervalotain this guy is a terrific presenter. J. H. for Vice President?
Something that I've learned about coffee is that once you get into grinding your own coffee and experimenting with brew methods, you're just getting slight variations of really good coffee. It's easy to start obsessing over minor details and telling yourself that it's a huge difference, when it's really not. All of these brewers are just slight variations that have very little impact on the coffee you're brewing. Good beans and good grinders are by far the biggest factors in the end result.
Does anyone else just really appreciate how thorough and real James is always trying to be? It is something you don't see super often anymore. Don't get me wrong I love coffee, but I think I watch the videos for the break that I get from watching him express his passion, and secondly I watch for the info. haha.
I appreciate reviewers in any field who give your succinct but detailed thoughts on stuff rather than just reading the marketing material out.
And honest. Far too many videos try to end with a "best" conclusion, even when "best" is subjective, which is a trap James is avoiding.
Yes, very sincere and only focussing on the matter he talks about, not on dragging all the spotlight on himself. Feels so relaxing in a world full of dysfunctional egos.
Those 3d models in the intro tho, they were just so amazingly satisfying ✨
99% sure those aren't models, but yeah they look great
I think he probably used a fishing wire to hang them and then just masked it out in post-production, but I totally agree it was pretty damn satisfying!
could have been photo scanned but the practical effect is more plausable
Probably a motorized lazy susan
Looking at it again, I think you guys are right! I think I maybe see a little bit of green screen reflection on the edges as well, I didn't catch that the first time watching :0
Just a small note regarding your conclusion about the Origami: it comes with a choice of base! The wooden one is definitely more beautiful, but because it’s a completely round opening it definitely makes it harder to be level and stable. The plastic one doesn’t always look quite as nice, but it does have little ridges in it that fit to the dripper, keeping it much more level and upright. It’s also a lot easier to clean, compared to wood!
You can also find a no brand wooden one with notches which does a perfect job of keeping the dripper level. I use an origami often but the original wooden base is kind of a joke.
It was a very hard choice to not get the wooden base when I ordered but I really do think the ridged plastic should be the default option. I haven't run into any of that leveling faff in hundreds of uses.
I wish I had known that the plastic base was gonna be better when I got my Origami dripper w/ wooden base. Thanks for the info! Good to know.
@@fistsofpanda Do you have a link to the no-brand wooden base?
@@JonathansCoffeeJournal The plastic base wasn't an option until recently iirc. When I got my Origami last year it wasn't an option at least. I ended up making my own notched base from acrylic and have been quite happy with the outcome.
Long-form James Hoffman video is like a blessing.
Amen
Is there a podcast where we can just plug straight into James stream of consciousness?
@@brekkoh I'm not sure we want to go THERE.
It would be interesting to have V60 as a "reference" brewer.
"I have thoughts on them all.. unsurprisingly." 😄
Completely agree with the sentiment about each brewer not being better than the other! Understanding the principles of how each work and how other brewing variables can be tweaked to achieve a similar cup are so much more important. Great video, James!
It would've been cool to have a (perhaps ceramic, to be consistent with the other brewers) V60 thrown in the mix as a control. I'd be curious to see whether you could pick out the V60 coffee from the mix or not.
I tought the exact same thing! Where’s the V60 in all of this?! Would’ve been nice as a sort of baseline.. and would James be able to pick it in the Line up? …Propably not though..
Was thinking that...as well as a Kalita for the flat brewers
With the Origami brewer: the wood base is very pretty, but they also offer a plastic resin base that is more practical. The hole in the plastic base is serrated, so the brewer effectively self-levels when you insert it, and the serrations sort of lock it in place and prevent it from sliding askew.
The origami is such a hit in some parts of the world since 2019 WBrC when Ms. Du used it to win her championship title; one of my favourite roasters did an ad campaign with her which show case the origami brewer as well. It's just so aesthetically pleasing.
Great video. I'd have liked the hario thrown in as a baseline. Would have given us at home a reference we're all familiar with for how these might differ from what we're used to. Fantastic info though thank you
I agree, the Hario would have made a good 'control'. I think the main take away from this vide is if you already have a Hario then you don't need any of these.
Eloquent articulate and succinct.
James, you’re not just creating the best coffee content but some of the outright best content available anywhere.
Thank you so much, it’s fascinating learning from such an engaging expert!
It would be interesting to see James try non western coffee making techniques
Yep. Like Turkish coffee where they stick it in hot sand to heat it up instead of using a kettle, which is pretty inventive in the pre-electric world. Most places just used fire. But yeah, where do you get hot sand from in the UK 😂
@@duffman18 Get a wok with a flat bottom (no true wok, I know), fill it with sand and put it on the stove. That should be the closest to using hot sand.
@@duffman18 Turkish coffee tastes amazing
I've thought it would be interesting to see him approach Cafe de la Olla from Mexico or Cafe cubano
To be fair, a lot of modern coffee techniques are Japanese innovations
I've been collecting brewers for about 20 years. I have most of those brewers plus another 10 or so and one I designed myself. In the end they are all very different but what ever one you spend the most time with you undoubtedly will probably enjoy that coffee more. Enjoy the experience, be creative about it, be meditative about it. There is no perfect brewer, no perfect recipe just great experiences ☺️.
Excellent review.
Dunno if you will see this, but it would be awesome if you could go into which one is easier to get consistent results. Some people are just getting into pourover, and selecting one that they can get consistent results would probably be helpful. I absolutely love the stagg x, it's easy to get repeatable results, and the set with the carafe is just awesome
So i was terminated from my job of 2 years last night when i showed up for my shift. Found your channel when i got home and I have binge watched like 20 of your videos then saw you just uploaded, and it has been a good escape from having to think about what the hell im going to do now... and how im going to afford a espresso kit lol. great content man!
Hope you find a better job and dont get too down on it life still goes on .
I ended up here to get my mind off of politics lol....I really hope you can find a new better job!!
Good luck in your next chapter mate. Change can be good sometimes
@@HAM-qi6de Got a lead on some decent job options, so i'll be fine. Gotta stay positive. I've been through worse. (i used to work nights so i had nobody to share the shitty situation with.) I gotta say it was a weird move by me to decide to post a comment on youtube about it.) but hey throw a comment into the void you might just get some positivity back. thanks man!
@@Barth_Grooks hope you’re doing well now fam
THANK YOU for editing out the audio from your tasting of the samples! As always, your attention to detail is impeccable.
James Hoffmann and the amazing art of making a 24 minute video feel like a 5 minute video.
It was 24 minutes???
Started watching this guy 2 days ago. I can't drink my normal coffe anymore. I'm feeling ashamed drinking my own coffe.
The story of many of us: We discover a James Hoffmann video, we watch 50 hours of his videos in the space of two weeks, we are ashamed of our previous coffee habits. Optional extra: we spend 80% of our spare income on coffee things.
I can't drink any coffee that's not my own.
🤣🤣🤣
The Fellow Stagg [X] is finally back in stock today, perfect timing! Just ordered one after viewing this video and reading Jonathan Gagné's blog post about it. Thanks James!
I've had a Stagg X for about a year and have been waiting for James to review!! Thanks!
ah yes James "I will do anything but the aeropress tutorial" Hoffman
lol my fave brewer
r/agedlikemilk
Great job on comparing the brewers James! I know how hard it can be :) Glad you included the April brewer. Definitely my favourite.
I'm so glad you tried the Origami brewer with both the V60 and Kalita Wave filters.
I really think it is the king of flat bottom brewers, because the ribs align so perfectly with the Kalita papers, it is possible to perfectly place them in unlike with other brewers which can often make the papers twisted during rinsing.
Some say James hasn’t slept since he was 18 due to the amounts of coffee he drinks
Some say James doesn't even own an AeroPress
If James reviews an aeropress and Noone sees it. Did the tree exist?
That explains the hair
Some say that the outline of his left nipple is exactly the same shape as the Nurburgring, and if you give him a really important job to do, he’ll skive off and play croquet. All we know is he’s called the Stig. 🙃
Some say he doesn't shop at stores anymore.
Might be worth mentioning that the Origami also has a plastic base that has a star shape in the middle, which results in it holding the brewer more level. The wood option looks lovely, but the plastic is more effective.
Your videos are so important. Watching your videos, I have learned so much about this beverage I fell in love with many years ago.
Few years have passed now, since I spent my college life drinking pre-ground coffee. My life changed when I bought a blade grinder and I started using it daily to grind coffee. I’m having the best coffee I’ve had in my life these days.
That reminds me, here’s a challenge for you - Buy a small bag of BRU coffee. It is preground. It is 80-20 (maybe even worse) coffee-chicory. That’s what I used to buy when I was desperate back in the day. Those were good days. What used to wake me up wasn’t the caffeine. It was the taste.
Entire world: please do aeropress
James: here’s six different coffee brewers, all not aeropress
As always, a very nuanced and fair review! I love that you are able to conclude each brewer is capable. Instead of narrowing the world of coffee, that kind of attitude really opens things up. The fun in coffee is experimenting and getting it right for you as an individual, and you are extremely capable of keeping doors open for everyone in that respect. Thanks!
Would have been super cool to look at the Origami own papers, but as you said it's a complicated enough test! I have one and a V60 and tend to go for Origami for sweet cups and V60 for fruity/acidity cups :) Thanks again for the videos
I discovered this channel yesterday. I am not a coffee drinker and I don't like coffee, but the videos I saw are awesome and so satisfying
Maybe you've just had bad coffee! Happens to a lot of people. Try some really good coffee someday.
It’s James „the beautiful jumper wearing, shopping spree inducing, everyone’s favourite coffee nerd“ Hoffmann with a new video again.
Thanks for keeping such an extremely high quality standard for your content over the years! Been enjoying every single video so far!
Truly marvelous.
Your presentation is always a delight.
Great to see your train of thought to flow and paper choice.
Thanks
I’d love to hear more about the SSP mod to your Ode. I just got the ode myself!
For what it's worth (very little, seeing as I'm a random youtube video commenter), when I saw the Ode on his counter, I hoped he'd say he's using the SSP burrs in them, and when he did, it made me giddy. The SSP burrs take the Ode from an average and frustrating $300 filter grinder to a fantastic, nearly perfect $480 multi-purpose grinder (able to do espresso very well, but not recommended because of weak motor). I'd also love to hear more from him on the modded Ode!
I'd also like to see a video on this! There was a very detailed/informative post a few weeks back on r/espresso by u/idylo (not suggesting it be used for espresso) that already has me tempted but all the talk of the V1.1 and possible V2 Fellow burr upgrades have me waiting.
@@eneuen me too
Yes, please do a video discussing the SSP burr set in this grinder!
The ode is frustrating a little bit faffy. The burrs won’t compensate for design decisions. I had to return mine.
Loved this video quite a bit! I really appreciate how this is a testament to the versatility and depth that coffee has. I firmly believe there is no singular “right way” to brew and this video only reassures that belief.
My Clever Dripper and I were watching this video and feeling smug. Since switching to it, the coffee brewed is so much more consistent and delicious. My days of regular pour overs are done. Filtered-immersion brew is the way to go.
What is your favorite recipe ?
Single-handedly one of the best RUclips channels out there. Insightful, smart, honest reviews. Cheers James, keep it up.
Are the slurps censored? What's going on here? I'm here for the slurps.
RELEASE THE SLURP CUT JAMES! The people demand it!
Sluuuurp!
Yes, I noticed this and the voiceovers. Jimmy is stepping up his game.
Guess I watched to many of his videos already because I could still hear them in my head
Same, I was waiting the whole video for them :D
Woah. Just when I thought the BROLL couldn't get better. Amazing video James!
That intro was super impressive. I wonder how it was done.
suspended with a string in front of a green screen? 🤷🏻♂️
@@ktsung91 That was my initial thought, but on closer inspection, my guess is the objects are resting stationary on a green screen backdrop while the camera pans over them. Maybe a rail was used to achieve a consistent pan, but if the pan was done hand-held, that's even more impressive.
@@JonGardner I'm guessing they used a stationary camera, and a stationary background, and had the brewers sit on something like a lazy susan. The lighting inside them changes throughout their motion so I think they're spinning, not being panned past.
@@WandelLander Good catch on that lighting change. You're 100% right about that.
@@WandelLander think there resting on something green at a 45-degree angle ontop a lazy susan . notice how we only see a partial rotation never seeing the bottom side of the brewers.
I just bought A Fellow Stag XL I'm so glad that was your favorite taste! Makes me feel better because this is all new to me
Would you be interested in doing a video on the (many) different CAFEC filter papers and even comparing them to Hario’s current paper? CAFEC used to manufacture for them before they switched paper sources and I think it would be an interesting comparison.
Loved watching this. Thanks for being honest about the brewers! Helps me to see the different brewers go head to head yet also be so different that it's impossible to compare one to the other.
Does anyone else panic when he lifts the cups over his head to check the number? One day we'll get his tasting notes of coffee dripping off his head.
Tasty, but a tad salty.
I think one of the great thing with the Origami dripper, you can use V60 style filter, and Kalita wave filters, and it altering the taste. It is my favorite to use. The ability to shift between flatbed and cone shape in one brewer is a nice touch.
A very nice thing to do would be to do a competition between maybe 6 baristas each specialized in one particular brewer, give them the same beans, and taste the result, it would be very nice to watch, especially if you have guest like Patrick for April brewer ^^ Just an idea even tho it is almost impossible especially during this time
Really appreciate your approach to reviewing very measured and evidence based. also love hearing about new brewers. Keep up the great work!
Super interesting findings. Really would have loved to see the Blue Bottle Dripper in there. I have a v60, Kalita Wave, the Fellow, and the BBD; and some weeks I’ll switch for fun. I’ve been amazed at how time after time the BBD outperforms the others. If you can get one, I’d encourage to you give it a spin.
Amazing video!! I love how thorough you were with the 2 rounds of testing using consistent vs customized technique. Thank you!
As for the thought experiment channel ged, I think you can hack most brewers to tweak the extraction closer to your preference. For me the winner is the brewer that can do that most efficiently (both ease of use & accessory cost wise)
Hi James, would love to see a comparison of decafs for those of us wo are interested in reducing caffeine and still want a good brew.
I have no idea why but whenever I watch James’s videos I am immediately relaxed, the editing, layout and all round video is just on point
Eureka mignon specialita in the background... is it possible there will be a review coming (pretty please)?
My thoughts precisely! Fingers crossed!
Hope so! Wonder if that's the Mignon XL.
@@RedRoverTW i thought i spotted the specialita sticker in the video he posted before this one
@@finz11 you're right, but it wasn't the video before this one. It was actually in the donut coffee video. Definitely a Specialita.
I just found this channel and can't stop watching. I didn't realize that filters and brewing cones made such a big difference. I've got some exp coffee gear but have been using bamboo paper filters with a cheap Bed Bath and Beyond cone. I thought it was just the coffee I was using that im not satisfied with. Now I have to rethink the whole thing all over again
I would be interested to hear how the flat-bedded brewers compare to the Kalita Wave. I enjoyed the comparisons of the cone-shaped brewers to the V60, but I think a lot of people would find it useful to know how the flat-bedded brewers relate to what is probably to most popular dripper in that category.
Me too. I was thinking of buying a new dripper and I was a bit torn between a couple of these and Kalita Wave. So the video seemed like a godsend until I noticed Kalita is just chilling there on the shelf!
My favorite thing with James' videos is that for as knowledgeable as he is and just his sheer level of expertise surrounding all things coffee, he isn't jaded or snobbish about any of this stuff. He still understands that no matter what at the end of the day, if it's something you're drinking and making for yourself just do what makes you happy and you enjoy the most.
Lots of mention of the December Dripper, but it wasn't in the video. Are you planning a video with it later, or a comparison video with it and the Espro? Inquiring minds want to know...
James, I have the Stagg XL, which allows one to make coffee for two or three people. The container for the paper filter is taller. The metal ring is to sit on top of the paper to guide the water around into the coffee rather than going down between the filter and metal wall. The glass carafe also has a lid to have the coffee sitting in the breakfast table. I like that about it.
Are you gonna do a video on the new Flair 58 that's coming out? I'm SO hype for that
He promised already! ;-)
Very enjoyable and informative video. I’ve have both the Fellow Stagg [X] and the April Brewer ( I also own a V60 and a Chemex). I’ve been using the April Brewer the most. I agree with you, James, about the April Brewer cup gets hot, a handle would be nice, but I’m very happy with the set . Both the April and Stagg make excellent coffee. :)
James, you mentioned that you swapped the burrs on the Ode for SSP burrs. Have you noticed an improvement with the new burrs? At that point it's nearly a $500 grinder, so how well would you say it stacks up against other grinders in the price range?
You’re an incredible asset to RUclips. Such a talented content creator. Keep it up!
Hey James, I've been trying to experiment and understand the effect grind size has on the dosage. I was wondering if you would be interested in putting up a video explaining the science and logic behind the same and how one should adjust their grind size to suit the amount they want to brew (say ranging from 150ml-500ml).
Would really be very helpful!
Awesome to see this video today. I have been following the Coffee with April channel for a while and it is nice to see them having a shout out from you James!
Patrik and his team do really make great videos with tons of interesting and useful information. The reasons behind Patrik’s brewing technique can be heard in many of their videos. I have been interested in the April brewing kit for a while and I can now be even more confident in spending my money on it after this video.
Another note on the April brewer: they have just released their custom paper filter (which is a little bit difficult to get a hold of as of the time of this comment), but it will be interesting to see you revisit this brewer in the future with more in-depth review of their technique and paper filters.
Love your videos as always, James!
As a Vietnamese, I suggest you should try the Vietnamese brewer call "Cafe Phin" sometimes. I think you'll like it.
Just looked it up. Interesting. Kind of like a cross between a French press and pour over?
There'll be a dedicated Phin video at some point this year!
My sister-in-law brought me one of these back from a trip she look a few years ago along with a few bags of local coffee. Very strong but Delicious. Especially with condensed milk
@@jameshoffmann great! Looking forward to it!!
@@jameshoffmann waiting for this James 🤨
Just strted brewing with a V60. Been really impressed and it's such an easy no fuss way of getting good coffee. I'm using the Timemore C3 grinder and the results have been excellent.
The espro looks like the December , but it's brewing technique is a world different . It can brew super fine and get the highest extraction over any other . On another note .. I can't wait to see you review the tricolate
December dripper is a POS imo. Clogs so easily it's worthless. Eventually broke on me
@@radagascar1 yeah, that brewer and company are dead . The espro bloom never will clog
I've had the origami dripper for a few months now and it's my favorite brewer I've owned, feels a good bit more flexible then some of the others.
Worth noting that, the main benefit I find with the Origami, and one which you pointed out as being a design flaw, is that it can be used without the wood base. It just means in the morning, I can place the origami without the base, straight onto my flask. My flask has quite a narrow mouth (which is annoying in itself), where most drippers won't fit but the Origami fixes that for me.
You know, there's a really interesting brewer out there wich aparrently you forgot to include. It's called the aeropress, you should look into it :)
April’s brew guides on the Origami is really great.
Would like to see a cross over of Jonathan Gagne and this channel performing fringe coffee experiments. A mix of sciency, data driven and entertaining content all at the same time.
Just stoped the video in the middle to say I love the new post production with the hightligjts and the messaging
Still waiting for a kalita wave review / brew tutorial. Please!
There is no coming back to Starbucks after this channel. Thank you James for improving my life.
"Instagram Fodder" gave me a much needed laugh this morning. You're the best, James.
It’s so true too
The fascinating and engaging content continues! Qualities of your videos that have me subscribed for as long as you continue to make videos? Empathy, your relentless and inspiring enthusiasm, and a scientific approach, such as your methods (and their explanation) for breaking down the comparison, here. Love it!! Best, Mike
You know what brewer doesn’t have any bypass when used as a pourover brewer? The aeropress 😉
Lol
Is great to watch how James is open minded and is for any coffee experiment you can possibly think of. Hopefully Eureka Mignon grinder review is coming soon ......
James’s Aeropress video is now attaining the notoriety of Dr. Dre's detox, with similar results! :-)
I have had the Stagg XF for a little over a year. Like James mentioned for literally half a second, it really helps keep higher temps brewing(especially if you preheat). Way better for lighter roasts(which is part of the reason James had a good time brewing with it on this video). One negative for the XF - It is hard to get brew time under 4 minutes... always coming in just after 4 unless I tinker with the flow rate/paper. If I increase the grind size cup tastes a bit empty.
So long story short if you are debating between the X and XF, go for the X for the quicker extraction to keep that brew time under the 4-minute mark!
And for all the Chemex lovers out there, I prefer the Stagg XF slightly over my Chemex.
Cheers!
"There are many different videos I wanna make" coughs *aeropress* coughs
I love the discussion of the differences between the different brewers; there is nothing wrong with the conclusion, “none of these brewers are particularly deficient, I might have ground the beans a bit finer to increase extraction for some of them”. This kind of video really helps me to improve my framework for how to approach coffee brewing.
all origami brewer fans have just had their dreams and Instagram accounts crushed by the great wisdom of James Hoffmann
Haha. Not the first time I hear that too. On european coffee trip Channel they concluded its a bit awkward to brew with without better results than the v60, it's just better for pics.
Nah, if you use it and like it, doesn’t matter what someone else’s opinion is.
I love watching these while drinking a fresh cup of coffee. Thanks for another great Video
Please include the Vietnamese Phin filter next! Id love to see what you think
Hmm, should we expect an Ultimate December Dripper guide? That would be great!
Thank you James for the great content and amazing edition, as usual.
Was about to go to sleep then I saw this. I guess I'll stay for a while.
Props to the intro. Really good stuff! Definitely huge improvements in the video quality of the channel over time.
To answer your question on what brewers I think need to be compared...why not go with drippers that are considered fundamental, but use completely different geometries? I'm talking about a head-to-head between the wedge Melittas/Kalitas (101/102), the flat-bottomed Waves, and the ubiquitous V60. :)
*insert the meme of the skeleton underwater* "Waiting for the Aeropress Ultimate Recipe"
I’m so sorry I didn’t pay any attention to the video. Just listened while working because I really enjoy this guy talking
I increasingly want to see a brew using a gym sock included as a baseline!
Shhh! You're spoilering one of the secret techniques from the forthcoming Aeropress extravaganza!
Hello. I’m new to your channel and I’m completely entranced by your knowledge and reviews. Thank you for helping us enjoy perfect coffee respites !