In this Hario V60 review, I will provide an in-depth analysis of this popular coffee maker found in specialty coffee shops globally. Through a thorough comparison with other coffee makers, I aim to assist you in determining whether it’s worth having at home. While the Hario V60 requires a bit of a learning curve to get the grind size and pour just right, it produces outstanding coffee that highlights the distinct flavors of various coffee-growing regions.
Key Takeaways:
- The Hario V60 is a popular coffee maker found in specialty coffee shops worldwide.
- The Hario V60 produces exceptional coffee that showcases the unique flavors of different coffee growing regions.
- With a learning curve to get the grind size and pour just right, the Hario V60 is worth the time and effort for coffee enthusiasts.
Brew Better Coffee at Home: Our Honest Hario V60 Review
The Hario V60 is a staple in specialty coffee shops worldwide, and it’s not hard to see why. This little brewer is capable of producing an exceptional cup of coffee that is bursting with flavor and aroma. It’s no wonder that many coffee enthusiasts are wondering if it’s worth having one at home.
After diving into all the facts about the Hario V60 coffee maker and comparing it to some of its competitors, I can confidently say that this is a top-notch coffee maker. While there is a bit of a learning curve to get the grind size and pour right, it’s worth the effort. With a little practice, you’ll be rewarded with exceptional coffee that showcases the unique flavors of different coffee growing regions.
One of the things that make the Hario V60 stand out is its affordability. It’s very cheap by coffee brewing standards, and you can get the whole setup for under $70. However, it does require filters and a grinder to get great coffee from it. The good news is that the filters are biodegradable, and you can dispose of them in the compost or food waste collection for recycling.
In terms of looks, the Hario V60 is the epitome of Japanese elegance and simplicity. It’s a funnel with ridges on the inside to aid water and airflow, and there isn’t a single part of it that doesn’t need to be there. It’s beautiful, simple, and functional – pretty much the ideal result of any design.
When it comes to cleaning, the Hario V60 is very easy to use as it uses filters, and most of the cleaning is done by disposing of the grounds and filter. Even the metal and glass options don’t require extensive cleaning, and a quick rinse will usually do the job.
In conclusion, if you’re into trying different single-origin coffee, the Hario V60 is a must-have piece of brewing equipment. It’s affordable, and the coffee is so good that it would be silly not to have one at home. While it may take a little practice to get the grind size and pour right, it’s worth the effort to get exceptional coffee that showcases the unique flavors of different coffee growing regions.
Brewing with Hario V60
When it comes to brewing coffee with the Hario V60, there is a bit of a learning curve to get the best results. However, with a little bit of practice, you can create an exceptional brew that is aromatic and bursting with flavor. The V60 is the gold standard of drip coffee and can really show off the unique flavors of different coffee growing regions.
To start, it is important to use relatively coarse coffee grounds, about the same consistency as kosher salt or coarse sand. This is slightly coarser than you would use for Aeropress or mocha pot coffee. The exact grind size will depend on your own taste and the coffee you are using.
Once you have your coffee grounds ready, place a filter in the V60 and rinse it with hot water. This will help remove any paper taste and preheat the brewer. Then, add your coffee grounds and pour hot water over them in a circular motion. The water should be just off the boil, around 200°F.
It is important to pour the water over the grounds at the correct rate to get the desired result. This takes a few tries, but there are plenty of videos online to help you. You should aim to pour the water in a steady stream, about 30-40ml of water per 10 seconds.
The Hario V60 is very easy to clean, as most of the cleaning is done by disposing of the grounds and filter. The good news is that the filters are biodegradable, so you can compost them when you’re done. The V60 is also quite affordable, with the whole setup costing under $70.
Overall, the Hario V60 is a must-have piece of brewing equipment for anyone who is into trying different single origin coffees. While there is a bit of a learning curve, the rewards are well worth it. With a little bit of practice, you can create exceptional coffee that showcases the unique flavors of different coffee growing regions.
Cost and Value of Hario V60
When it comes to the cost and value of the Hario V60, it’s important to consider both the initial investment and ongoing expenses. The V60 itself is very affordable, with prices ranging from $10 to $60 depending on the size and material. However, to really get the most out of this coffee maker, you’ll need to invest in a grinder and filters.
Fortunately, you can get a whole setup for under $70, which is still a relatively cheap option considering the immense quality of coffee you can make. The V60 is a must-have piece of brewing equipment if you’re into trying different single-origin coffees. It’s so affordable, and the coffee is so good, it would be silly not to have one at home.
The ongoing expenses of the V60 come in the form of filters and coffee beans. The good news is that the filters are biodegradable, so you can chuck them into the compost when you’re done, or food waste collection for recycling depending on your setup. As for the coffee beans, the V60 needs relatively coarse coffee grounds, about the same consistency as kosher salt or coarse sand. This is slightly coarser than you would use for Aeropress or Moka pot coffee. The exact size will depend on your own taste and the coffee you’re grinding.
Overall, the Hario V60 is a very affordable option for those looking to up their coffee game at home. While there is a bit of a learning curve to get the best from it, the reward is exceptional coffee that showcases the unique flavors of different coffee growing regions. If you’re willing to put in a little practice, the V60 is definitely worth the investment.
Ease of Use
As a coffee lover, I’ve always been curious about the Hario V60 and its reputation as the gold standard of drip coffee. After testing it out, I can say that while it’s not the easiest coffee maker to use, it’s definitely worth the effort to get the hang of it.
The learning curve with the Hario V60 comes from getting the grind size, water temperature, and pour rate just right. It may take a few tries to get the desired result, but there are plenty of online resources available to help you along the way. Once you’ve nailed down the technique, the V60 can produce exceptional coffee that showcases the unique flavors and aromas of different coffee growing regions.
One thing to note is that the V60 requires relatively coarse coffee grounds, about the same consistency as kosher salt or coarse sand. This is slightly coarser than what you would use for other coffee brewing methods like Aeropress or Moka pot coffee. Additionally, the V60 needs filters, which are biodegradable and easy to dispose of.
Overall, the Hario V60 is a beautifully crafted piece of equipment that requires some practice to master, but the reward of exceptional coffee is well worth the effort.
Design and Build Quality
The Hario V60 is the epitome of Japanese elegance and simplicity. The funnel has ridges on the inside to aid water and airflow, and there isn’t a single part of it that doesn’t need to be there. It is beautiful, simple, and functional, pretty much the ideal result of any design.
In terms of looks, it really all depends on which one you go for. The clear plastic version looks quite cheap, and it is, but if you’re taking it with you or brewing while camping, it’s great. It’s sturdy and portable, and no one is going to worry about it looking cheap when you’re sipping café quality coffee by the campfire in the morning.
The build quality is great, and they’re all beautifully crafted and perfect for the function. The glass and ceramic versions are obviously more prone to breaking, as is anything that is made with glass or ceramic versus metal and plastic. However, many people own a chipped ceramic version that still works perfectly as the chip doesn’t interfere with the brewing.
The Hario V60 is very easy to use as it uses filters. Most of the cleaning is done by disposing of the grounds and filter. The good news is that the filters are biodegradable, so you can chuck them into the compost when you’re done or food waste collection for recycling depending on your setup. Some V60s are dishwasher safe, but even if they’re not, they only need a quick rinse. Even the metal and glass options don’t require extensive cleaning, and a quick rinse will usually do the job to keep your V60 nice and sparkly. A couple of notes though, copper looks great, but it can tarnish and will require polishing every six months or so to keep it looking its best. The copper polish is nasty stuff to get on your skin, so make sure you have heavy gloves when doing this.
Coffee Grind and Roast Preferences
When it comes to brewing coffee with the Hario V60, the grind size and roast level of the coffee beans can greatly affect the final taste of the coffee. The V60 requires relatively coarse coffee grounds, about the same consistency as kosher salt or coarse sand. This is slightly coarser than what you would use for Aeropress or Moka Pot coffee. The exact size will depend on your own taste and the coffee you’re grinding.
It’s also important to consider the roast level of the coffee beans. The V60 is one of the methods that really brings out the best in light roast coffees. All those amazing aromatic compounds that are present in the lighter roasts give an incredible aroma to V60 coffee and show the hyper regionality of single origin coffees. Any single origin is going to be great, but for us, Ethiopia is the place to start. The hyper-romatic high elevation coffees of Ethiopia are an absolute joy when brewed with the V60.
If you prefer a darker roast, you can still use the V60, but the flavors may not be as pronounced as with lighter roasts. It’s all a matter of personal preference, but if you’re into trying different single origin coffees, the V60 is a must-have piece of brewing equipment. It’s so affordable, and the coffee is so good, it would be silly not to.
Ultimately, the grind size and roast level of the coffee beans will greatly affect the final taste of your V60 coffee. Experiment with different grinds and roasts to find your perfect cup. Remember, the V60 requires a bit of a learning curve to get the best from it, but the reward is exceptional coffee that showcases the unique flavors of different coffee growing regions.
Cleaning the Hario V60
As a coffee lover, I understand the importance of keeping my brewing equipment clean. The Hario V60 is no exception, and it’s essential to clean it regularly to maintain its quality and prolong its lifespan. Here’s how I clean my Hario V60.
First, I dispose of the used coffee grounds and filter. The V60 uses biodegradable filters, so I can easily toss them into my compost bin or food waste collection for recycling.
Next, I rinse the V60 with hot water to remove any remaining coffee residue. I make sure to rinse the ridges on the inside of the funnel thoroughly. If there are any stubborn stains or residue, I use a soft brush to gently scrub them away.
After rinsing, I let the V60 air dry or wipe it dry with a clean cloth. I avoid using any harsh detergents or abrasive sponges that could damage the V60’s delicate design.
If I notice any tarnishing on my copper V60, I polish it with a copper cleaner every six months to keep it looking its best. I always wear heavy gloves when polishing to avoid any skin irritation.
Overall, cleaning the Hario V60 is a straightforward process that only takes a few minutes. With regular cleaning, I can ensure that my V60 continues to produce exceptional coffee for years to come.
Hario V60 vs Aeropress
When it comes to choosing between the Hario V60 and Aeropress, it really depends on your personal taste and brewing style. Both are affordable coffee makers that are loved by home baristas all over the world, but they have their differences.
The Hario V60 is the gold standard of drip coffee, producing an exceptional brew that is aromatic and bursting with flavor. It can really show off how unique different coffee growing regions are. However, there is a learning curve which other coffee brewing methods don’t have. It will take a little practice to get the grind size and pour right, but if you’re happy to embrace the process, you’ll be rewarded with exceptional coffee. The V60 is also very cheap by coffee brewing standards, but it does require filters and a grinder to really get great coffee from it.
On the other hand, the Aeropress is a much more forgiving coffee maker than the V60. It is quite easy to under-extract your coffee with the Aeropress, but it is very likely you’ll get it right on the first try. It comes with a big stack of coffee filters included, but you need to buy more at some point. The Aeropress is also much easier to clean than the V60 as it uses a simple plunger mechanism.
Both require a grinder of some description, and it’s just not worth using pre-ground coffee in either device as you lose the amazing flavors that brewing with these can get you. You can spend anywhere from thirty dollars to five hundred on a grinder.
In terms of day-to-day costs, the Aeropress is cheaper as it comes with a big stack of coffee filters included. The V60, on the other hand, requires you to buy filters separately, but they are biodegradable, so you can chuck them into the compost when you’re done.
Ultimately, the choice between the Hario V60 and Aeropress comes down to your personal taste and brewing style. If you love pour-over style and are happy to give it a fair few tries to get right, then the V60 is absolutely the best option for you. If you’re looking for a more forgiving coffee maker that is easy to use and clean, then the Aeropress is the way to go.
Conclusion
After conducting a thorough Hario V60 review and comparing it to its competitors, I can confidently recommend it as a must-have for any coffee enthusiast. Despite requiring some practice to get the grind size and pour just right, this coffee maker produces exceptional coffee that is aromatic and bursting with flavor.
One of the standout features of the Hario V60 is its ability to showcase the unique characteristics of different coffee growing regions. With a little experimentation, you can truly experience the area and its unique style with the V60. Ethiopia is a great place to start, as the high elevation, hyper-aromatic coffees of the region are an absolute joy when brewed with the V60.
In addition to its exceptional brewing capabilities, the Hario V60 is also very affordable, with the whole setup costing under seventy dollars. While it does require filters and a grinder to achieve great coffee, the filters are biodegradable, and investing in a grinder is worthwhile for any coffee lover.
In terms of style, the Hario V60 produces a light, smooth, aromatic coffee with accentuated fruit and flower notes on the nose and a delicate taste on the palate. Although it is a bit more complex to use than other brewing methods, there are hundreds of online videos available to help you, making the learning curve worth it.
Overall, if you’re a fan of trying different single-origin coffees, then the Hario V60 is a must-have brewing equipment. It’s affordable, produces exceptional coffee, and is a beautiful, simple, and functional addition to any kitchen.
FAQs: Your Hario V60 Questions Answered
What is a Hario V60 and how does it work?
The Hario V60 is a pour-over coffee maker that uses a cone-shaped filter to brew coffee. It works by allowing hot water to flow through the coffee grounds and filter, extracting the flavors and aromas of the coffee.
What makes the Hario V60 different from other pour-over coffee makers?
The Hario V60 has a unique design that allows for better extraction of coffee flavors. Its spiral ridges and large hole at the bottom of the cone-shaped filter allow for a more even extraction, resulting in a cleaner and more flavorful cup of coffee.
What type of coffee is best for the Hario V60?
The Hario V60 works best with medium to light roast coffee beans that are freshly ground. This allows for a more even extraction and better flavor profile.
How do I use the Hario V60?
To use the Hario V60, start by boiling water and grinding your coffee beans. Place the filter in the V60 and wet it with hot water to remove any paper taste. Add the coffee grounds and pour hot water over them in a circular motion, making sure to saturate all the grounds. Allow the coffee to drip through the filter and into your cup.
Is the Hario V60 easy to clean?
Yes, the Hario V60 is easy to clean. Simply remove the used filter and rinse the V60 with hot water. It is recommended to clean it thoroughly with soap and water once a week.
Can the Hario V60 be used for brewing tea?
Yes, the Hario V60 can be used for brewing tea as well. Simply follow the same steps as brewing coffee, but use tea leaves instead of coffee grounds.
Is the Hario V60 worth the investment?
Yes, the Hario V60 is worth the investment for coffee lovers who appreciate a clean and flavorful cup of coffee. Its unique design and high-quality materials make it a durable and reliable coffee maker that will last for years.
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