A Chemex uses a paper filter substantially thicker than a standard cone filter, and that changes everything.
The setting
Medium-coarse — coarser than a V60, closer to a coarse sand.
Why coarser
The Chemex filter is 20 to 30% heavier than a V60 paper. It restricts flow considerably on its own.
Combine a thick filter with a fine grind and the brew stalls: five, six, eight minutes, and the result is bitter and over-extracted.
The target time
4 to 5 minutes total for a 30 g brew. Longer means grind coarser.
What the thick filter gives you
Exceptional clarity. It removes more oils and fines than any other common paper, producing the cleanest cup in filter brewing.
Some find it too clean — thin, tea-like, lacking body. That is the trade-off, and it suits bright light roasts particularly well.
The rinse
Rinse thoroughly with hot water before brewing. Chemex papers are thick enough that unrinsed they contribute a genuine papery taste.
It also preheats the glass, which is worth several degrees.
Filter orientation
The triple-fold side goes against the pouring spout. It supports the filter and leaves an air channel so the brew does not vapour-lock.
The ratio
60 g per litre as usual. A 6-cup Chemex takes 30 to 45 g of coffee comfortably.
Bed depth
Chemex rewards larger brews. Under 20 g the bed is too shallow and it channels.
Last reviewed 8 August 2026