French press brewing is often praised for its simplicity—just coarse grounds, hot water, and a press. Many home brewers enjoy it because it feels relaxed and low-tech. So, if it’s so simple, do you really need a coffee scale to make great French press coffee?
The short answer: Yes, if you want consistency and better flavor.
In this article, we’ll explore why using a scale can drastically improve your French press coffee, how to do it correctly, and what tools you need for a more refined brewing routine.
Why Use a Scale for French Press?
1. Accuracy in Brew Ratio
The brew ratio—how much coffee to how much water—is the foundation of good flavor. Using tablespoons or scoops is inconsistent, since the volume of ground coffee changes depending on the grind and bean type.
With a scale, you get an exact measurement in grams, ensuring:
- Better strength control
- Balanced flavor
- Repeatable results
A common French press ratio is 1:15 to 1:17. For example:
- 30 grams of coffee → 450 ml of water (1:15)
- 40 grams of coffee → 680 ml of water (1:17)
2. Consistency from Cup to Cup
Even if you love your French press today, it might taste too strong or too weak tomorrow if you eyeball your measurements. A scale ensures consistency every time you brew, even if you change beans or adjust for more cups.
3. Better Control Over Experiments
If you want to tweak your brew method—adjusting steep time, grind size, or coffee origin—a scale allows you to change only one variable at a time. That’s the key to learning what works and what doesn’t.
Step-by-Step French Press Brewing with a Scale
Here’s a precise method for brewing with a scale:
What You’ll Need:
- French press (350ml to 1L size)
- Burr grinder
- Digital coffee scale (0.1g accuracy recommended)
- Kettle (gooseneck or standard)
- Timer
- Fresh coffee beans
- Spoon or stirring stick
1. Measure the Coffee
Weigh out your coffee beans before grinding. For a single mug (around 350ml), use:
- 22–25g of coffee for a stronger brew
- Medium-coarse grind
2. Boil and Cool the Water
Bring water to a boil, then let it rest for 30 seconds. The ideal brewing temperature is around 200°F (93°C).
Weigh out the exact amount of water you need—e.g., 375g for 25g of coffee at a 1:15 ratio.
3. Add Coffee to French Press
Place the empty French press on the scale, tare it to zero, and add your ground coffee. Tare again.
4. Start the Timer and Add Water
Begin your pour, saturating all the grounds evenly. Pour to the final desired weight (e.g., 375g). Use a spoon to give a gentle stir and break up clumps.
Start your timer for 4 minutes.
5. Stir and Skim the Top (Optional)
At the 4-minute mark, use a spoon to stir the crust that forms at the top. Then skim off any remaining foam or floating grounds.
This helps reduce bitterness and results in a cleaner taste.
6. Press and Pour
Attach the lid and slowly press the plunger down. Pour your coffee immediately to avoid over-extraction.
If brewing more than one cup, decant the coffee into another vessel.
What Kind of Scale Works Best?
You don’t need the most expensive scale, but look for one with these features:
- 0.1g precision
- Tare function
- Fast response time
- Compact and easy to clean
Popular models:
- Hario V60 Drip Scale
- Timemore Black Mirror
- Acaia Pearl (premium)
Optional Upgrades for French Press Brewing
If you already use a French press and a scale, here are a few other accessories that enhance your experience:
- Burr grinder – Consistency matters in grind size
- Thermometer – For tracking water temperature
- Timer – Most scales include one, but if not, a simple app works
- Stir stick – Bamboo or wooden spoon to avoid damaging the glass
Common French Press Mistakes (and How a Scale Helps)
Guessing Instead of Measuring
Problem: Weak or bitter brews
Fix: Use scale to dial in the correct ratio
Wrong Grind Size
Problem: Sludge or harsh flavors
Fix: Burr grinder + scale to measure before and after adjustments
Leaving Coffee in the Press
Problem: Over-extracted, muddy coffee
Fix: Use scale to portion exact servings and pour immediately
Inconsistent Brew Time
Problem: Fluctuating flavor
Fix: Combine scale with timer for repeatable results
Final Thoughts: A Small Tool for a Better French Press
French press doesn’t need to be complicated, but it also doesn’t have to be random. A digital coffee scale adds precision, clarity, and control to an otherwise “rustic” brew method.
If you want coffee that’s full-bodied but not muddy, strong but not bitter, start weighing your beans and water. It’s one of the easiest and cheapest upgrades you can make—and it works for every brewing method, not just French press.