AeroPress Original vs AeroPress XL — Which Should You Choose?
The AeroPress Original and AeroPress XL use the same brewing technology and produce the same quality of cup — the difference is purely capacity and size.
AeroPress Original: Brews 1–3 cups per press (up to 237ml / 8oz). Compact, lightweight, and the most portable option — ideal for individuals, travel use, and anyone brewing one or two cups at a time. Currently 18% off.
AeroPress XL: Brews up to 3–4 larger cups per press (up to 473ml / 16oz). Same design, same quality, bigger chamber. The right choice for households brewing multiple cups, or anyone who wants a fuller mug from a single press rather than brewing twice. Currently 23% off.
AeroPress Starter Kit: The AeroPress Original paired with a Rhino Coffee Gear compact hand grinder — everything you need to start brewing fresh ground coffee immediately. At 14% off, it's one of the best value entries into manual brewing available. The Rhino grinder fits directly onto the AeroPress chamber, making it a particularly neat travel combination.
Stock up on AeroPress Paper Filters (350-pack, 10% off) to keep your setup running — they're inexpensive, improve cup clarity, and are fully compostable. If you prefer a reusable option, metal AeroPress filters are also available — the Fellow Prismo in our immersion collection includes one and adds pressure-valve functionality to boot.
Pair your AeroPress with a quality filter grinder or hand grinder for the best results. Freshly ground coffee makes a significant difference to any brewing method.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you use an AeroPress?
The standard AeroPress method is straightforward. Insert a paper filter into the filter cap and rinse it with hot water, then attach it to the bottom of the brewing chamber. Place the chamber on top of your cup or mug. Add your ground coffee (typically 15–18g for a single cup), pour hot water (around 85–96°C) to the marked level, stir briefly, and after 1–2 minutes of steeping, insert the plunger and press down slowly and steadily over about 30 seconds. The entire brew takes under 2 minutes. The AeroPress is very forgiving — small variations in timing, temperature and grind rarely produce a bad cup.
What is the inverted AeroPress method?
The inverted method involves flipping the AeroPress upside down so the plunger seals the bottom of the chamber during steeping. You add coffee and water, steep, then attach the filter cap and carefully flip the whole assembly onto your cup before pressing. The advantage is that the inverted method prevents water from dripping through during the steep, giving you more control over brew time and a more complete immersion. Many enthusiasts prefer it, and most AeroPress World Championship-winning recipes use the inverted method. It takes a little practice to flip confidently but becomes second nature quickly.
What grind size should I use for AeroPress?
AeroPress works with a wide range of grind sizes, which is one of its greatest strengths. For the standard method with a 1–2 minute steep, a medium grind (similar to table salt) is a solid starting point. For shorter brews (under 1 minute), grind finer; for longer steeps or the inverted method with a 3+ minute steep, grind coarser. For espresso-style concentrate using the Fellow Prismo attachment, grind as fine as you would for espresso. The AeroPress is one of the most grind-size-tolerant brewers available, making it ideal for use with a hand grinder or entry-level burr grinder.
What is the difference between the AeroPress Original and the AeroPress XL?
The AeroPress Original brews up to approximately 237ml (8oz) per press — enough for 1–3 small cups or one large mug of coffee. The AeroPress XL has a larger chamber that brews up to approximately 473ml (16oz) per press — roughly double the capacity. Both use the same filter papers and the same brewing technique. The Original is the better choice for solo brewers and travel; the XL suits those who regularly brew for two or want a single large batch without pressing twice.
Can I make espresso with an AeroPress?
The AeroPress produces a smooth, concentrated coffee that resembles espresso in character but is not true espresso — it doesn't generate the 9 bars of pressure required for a genuine espresso extraction. However, using a fine grind, a short steep and firm pressing, you can produce a rich, strong concentrate that works well as an espresso substitute in milk-based drinks like lattes and flat whites. The Fellow Prismo attachment (available in our immersion collection) adds a pressure-actuated valve that helps build slightly more pressure during the press, improving the espresso-style result.
Is the AeroPress good for travel?
Yes — it's one of the best travel coffee makers available. The AeroPress Original is compact, lightweight (just 230g), made from durable BPA-free plastic that withstands knocks and drops, and requires no electricity. It brews in under 2 minutes using water from any kettle or camping stove. Paired with the Rhino hand grinder included in the AeroPress Starter Kit — which fits directly onto the AeroPress chamber — you have a complete, self-contained brewing kit that packs into a small bag. It's the most capable travel brewing setup at this price point.
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