Coffee Brew Ratio
Calculator
Enter your coffee dose and brew method to get the perfect water amount, grind recommendation, and brew time.
Your Recipe
Pour Over (V60)18g
Coffee
288g
Water
38
Grind Index
3:15
Brew Time
Grind recommendation: Like sand (index 38/100). Convert to your grinder →
Quick Ratio Guide
Understanding Brew Ratios
The brew ratio is the relationship between the weight of coffee grounds and the weight of water used. It's the single most important variable in brewing consistent, delicious coffee.
The golden ratio for most filter methods is 1:16 — one gram of coffee for every 16 grams of water. This produces a balanced cup that highlights the coffee's natural flavors without being too strong or too weak.
- Lower ratio (1:14) — Stronger, more concentrated. Good for darker roasts or when adding milk.
- Standard ratio (1:16) — Balanced. The best starting point for any new coffee.
- Higher ratio (1:18) — Lighter, more tea-like. Good for delicate light roasts.
Recommended Ratios by Brew Method
| Method | Ratio |
|---|---|
| Espresso | 1:2 |
| AeroPress | 1:15 |
| Pour Over (V60) | 1:16 |
| Chemex | 1:16.5 |
| Drip / Batch Brew | 1:16 |
| French Press | 1:15 |
| Cold Brew | 1:8 |
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the best coffee-to-water ratio?
It depends on your brew method and taste preference. Most pour-over methods (V60, Chemex) work best at 1:16 (e.g., 20g coffee to 320g water). French press is typically 1:15 for a fuller body. Espresso uses 1:2 to 1:2.5. Start with our defaults and adjust to taste.
Should I measure by weight or volume?
Always use weight (grams) for accuracy. Coffee beans vary in density, so measuring by volume (tablespoons or scoops) is inconsistent. A $20 kitchen scale will transform your coffee brewing.
Can I adjust the ratio for stronger or weaker coffee?
Yes. Use the ratio slider to adjust strength. Lower ratios (1:15) = stronger, more concentrated coffee. Higher ratios (1:18) = lighter, more tea-like coffee. Most people prefer 1:16 to 1:17 for balanced flavor.
Does this work for cold brew?
Yes. Cold brew typically uses a 1:8 to 1:10 ratio (much stronger than hot coffee) because you dilute the concentrate with water or milk after brewing. Our calculator shows cold brew concentrate ratios.
What if I don't have a scale?
We strongly recommend a scale for consistent results. But as a rough guide: 1 tablespoon of coffee is approximately 5–7 grams (varies by grind size and bean density). For better coffee, invest $20 in a basic kitchen scale.
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