Bodum Pour Over Coffee Maker Review: Is It Worth It?

I’m a coffee enthusiast who’s always chasing that perfect morning cup, and let me tell you, the Bodum Pour Over Coffee Maker has become a staple in my kitchen.

If you’re looking for an affordable, stylish, and eco-friendly way to brew rich, aromatic coffee at home, this is the gadget for you.

Its sleek design, reusable stainless steel filter, and ease of use make it a fantastic entry point into pour-over brewing.

Trust me, this little brewer delivers a bold, flavorful cup that rivals pricier options, and it’s a must-have for anyone ready to elevate their coffee game.

My Experience With the Bodum Pour Over Coffee Maker

I’ll never forget the first time I unboxed my Bodum Pour Over Coffee Maker. It arrived in minimalist, eco-friendly packaging—recyclable cardboard cradling a sleek borosilicate glass carafe. The cork grip (I opted for this over the silicone version) gave it a rustic, almost artisanal vibe that instantly made my kitchen counter look more sophisticated.

At 34 ounces, it’s got enough capacity to brew coffee for me and my partner, or even a small gathering of friends, which is perfect for my weekend brunches.

The first brew was a revelation. I followed Bodum’s instructions: preheat the filter with a splash of hot water, add four Bodum scoops (about 30 grams) of medium-ground coffee, and slowly pour 500 ml of water heated to around 200°F in a circular motion. The process felt like a ritual, almost meditative, as I watched the coffee bloom and drip into the carafe below.

The stainless steel mesh filter let the coffee’s natural oils shine through, giving me a rich, full-bodied cup with notes of caramel and a hint of fruitiness from my favorite Ethiopian beans. It wasn’t as clean as a paper-filtered brew, but the depth of flavor was undeniable.

Over the next few weeks, I experimented with grind sizes and pour techniques. The Bodum is forgiving, which is great for someone like me who’s not a barista-level pro. I tried a slightly finer grind one morning, and while the brew time slowed a bit, the coffee was still delicious.

The carafe’s design makes pouring a breeze, though I’ve learned to pour slowly to avoid drips on the cork band. Cleanup is straightforward—both the carafe and filter are dishwasher-safe, but I usually just rinse them with hot water and a quick scrub.

One thing I noticed is the coffee stays warm for a decent amount of time, thanks to the borosilicate glass, but it’s not a thermal carafe, so don’t expect it to keep your brew piping hot for hours. I’ve also had a few moments of frustration with sediment in the cup, especially when I got lazy with my grind size. But overall, the Bodum has made my mornings feel special.

It’s not just about the coffee—it’s about the process, the aroma filling the kitchen, and the satisfaction of crafting something by hand. After a month of daily use, I’m hooked, and it’s hard to imagine going back to my old drip machine.

Pros Of the Bodum Pour Over Coffee Maker

Affordable Price Point: Let’s start with the wallet-friendly aspect. The Bodum Pour Over is often half the price of competitors like the Chemex, making it an excellent choice if you’re dipping your toes into pour-over brewing without committing to a hefty investment. You get a high-quality brewer that doesn’t break the bank.
Reusable Stainless Steel Filter: I love that this comes with a permanent mesh filter. Not only does it save you from constantly buying paper filters, but it’s also eco-friendly. The filter allows the coffee’s natural oils to pass through, resulting in a richer, more robust flavor that paper filters often strip away.

Sleek and Stylish Design: The Bodum’s borosilicate glass carafe and cork or silicone grip make it a showstopper on any countertop. It’s got this minimalist, Scandinavian charm that elevates your kitchen’s aesthetic. Plus, the cork grip feels great in hand and stays cool even when the coffee’s hot.
Ease of Use for Beginners: You don’t need to be a coffee nerd to get a great cup. The flat-bottomed filter is forgiving, so even if your pour technique isn’t perfect, you’ll still end up with a solid brew. It’s ideal for those just starting their pour-over journey.
Dishwasher-Safe Components: Cleaning is a breeze. Both the carafe and filter can go straight into the dishwasher, though I usually hand-wash to keep everything in top shape. This convenience is a big win for busy mornings.

Versatile Capacity Options: Whether you’re brewing for one or a crowd, Bodum offers sizes from 12 to 51 ounces. I went with the 34-ounce version, which is perfect for two large mugs or four smaller cups, making it versatile for different households.

Cons Of the Bodum Pour Over Coffee Maker

Sediment in the Brew: The stainless steel filter, while eco-friendly, lets some fine coffee particles slip through, especially if your grind is too fine. I’ve noticed a slight siltiness in my cup, which might bother those who prefer a cleaner, paper-filtered brew.
Spout Design Could Be Better: Pouring can be tricky. The spout isn’t as precise as I’d like, and I’ve had a few drips end up on the cork band, which is annoying to clean. It’s not a dealbreaker, but it requires a steady hand to avoid spills.

Not Ideal for Complex Flavor Profiles: If you’re a coffee purist chasing nuanced, delicate flavors, the Bodum’s mesh filter and flat-bottom design might fall short. It produces a bold cup, but it lacks the precision of a conical brewer like the Hario V60.
Glass Fragility: The borosilicate glass is heat-resistant, but it’s still glass. I’ve been careful not to knock it against the sink, as it feels less sturdy than pricier options like the Chemex. If you’re clumsy, this might not be your best bet.
Coffee Cools Quickly: Unlike a thermal carafe, the Bodum doesn’t keep coffee hot for long. If you’re brewing a large batch and sipping slowly, you might need to reheat your cup or pour it into a thermos.

Maintenance Tips For the Bodum Pour Over Coffee Maker

Rinse Immediately After Use: To keep your Bodum in top shape, rinse the stainless steel filter and carafe with hot water right after brewing. This prevents coffee oils and residue from building up, which can affect the taste of future brews. A quick rinse takes 30 seconds and makes a big difference.
Deep Clean Weekly with Vinegar: I’ve found that soaking the carafe and filter in a solution of equal parts white vinegar and water overnight works wonders for removing stubborn coffee stains and oils. Afterward, rinse thoroughly with hot water and a mild dish soap to ensure no vinegar taste lingers.
Check the Filter for Clogs: The mesh filter can trap fine grounds over time, slowing your brew. Every few weeks, inspect it closely and use a soft brush (like a toothbrush) to gently scrub away any buildup. This keeps the water flowing smoothly and maintains consistent extraction.

Handle the Glass with Care: The borosilicate glass is durable for heat, but it’s not invincible. Avoid banging it against hard surfaces, and when washing, use a soft sponge to prevent scratches. If you’re using the dishwasher, place it on the top rack to minimize stress on the glass.
Dry the Cork Band Properly: If you have the cork grip version, make sure it’s completely dry after washing to prevent mold or wear. I usually pat it dry with a towel and let it air out for a few hours. If it gets stained, a quick wipe with a damp cloth usually does the trick.
Store Safely to Avoid Breakage: When not in use, I store my Bodum in a cupboard away from heavy pots and pans. The glass is thin, so keeping it in a safe spot ensures it stays intact. If you’re tight on space, consider a padded storage bag for extra protection.

Comparison With Other Brands

Chemex Pour Over Coffee Maker

The Chemex is the gold standard for pour-over enthusiasts, and I can see why. Its thick, hand-blown borosilicate glass feels more premium than the Bodum’s, and the wooden collar with a leather tie gives it a timeless, elegant look. The Chemex uses proprietary paper filters that produce a cleaner, crisper cup by absorbing coffee oils, which is great if you’re after nuanced flavors. However, it’s pricier—often double the cost of the Bodum—and requires more precision with your pour technique. You’ll also need a gooseneck kettle and a scale to get the best results, which adds to the overall investment. For me, the Bodum’s simplicity and lower price make it a better fit for casual brewing, but the Chemex is the way to go if you’re a flavor-chasing aficionado.

Hario V60

The Hario V60 is a coffee shop darling, and I’ve used it at my local café with impressive results. Its conical shape and spiral ribs create excellent airflow, extracting delicate flavor notes that the Bodum can’t quite match. The ceramic version retains heat well, and the brew is clean with paper filters. However, the V60 demands more skill—you need a steady hand and precise pour to avoid uneven extraction. It’s also less forgiving than the Bodum’s flat-bottom filter, and the filters aren’t as easy to find in stores. For beginners, the Bodum’s ease of use wins out, but the V60 is a favorite for those willing to master the craft.

Kalita Wave

The Kalita Wave is another strong contender, with a flat-bottom design similar to the Bodum’s, which makes it forgiving for beginners. Its stainless steel or ceramic construction feels sturdy, and the proprietary wavy filters promote even extraction, resulting in a balanced, flavorful cup. I found the Kalita easier to clean than the Bodum, as it doesn’t have a carafe to contend with—just rinse the dripper. However, the filters are pricier and harder to source than standard cone filters, and the Kalita itself costs more than the Bodum. If you want a step up in flavor consistency without the Bodum’s sediment issue, the Kalita is a solid choice.

Melitta Pour Over

Melitta’s pour-over cone is a budget-friendly option that rivals the Bodum in affordability. It uses widely available paper filters, which produce a cleaner brew than the Bodum’s mesh filter, and the simple plastic or porcelain design is virtually indestructible. However, it lacks the Bodum’s aesthetic appeal and large-capacity carafe, making it better suited for single-serve brewing. I found the Melitta’s brew process less engaging, as it feels more utilitarian than the Bodum’s ritualistic charm. If you prioritize convenience and a grit-free cup over style, Melitta’s a great pick, but it doesn’t match the Bodum’s versatility.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is the Bodum Pour Over Coffee Maker Good?

Absolutely, it’s a fantastic choice for most home brewers. The Bodum delivers a rich, full-bodied cup at a fraction of the cost of premium brands. Its reusable stainless steel filter and easy-to-use design make it perfect for beginners, and the 34-ounce capacity is great for small households. While it can produce some sediment and isn’t as precise as high-end brewers, it’s hard to beat for the price and convenience.

Is Bodum or Chemex Better?

It depends on your priorities. The Bodum is more affordable, easier to use, and comes with a reusable filter, making it ideal for casual coffee drinkers who want a bold brew without fuss. The Chemex, with its paper filters and conical design, produces a cleaner, more nuanced cup but requires more skill and accessories. If budget and simplicity matter most, go with Bodum; if flavor precision is your goal, Chemex takes the crown.

Which Is the Best Pour Over Coffee Maker?

The “best” pour-over coffee maker varies by need. For beginners and budget-conscious folks, the Bodum Pour Over shines with its affordability and ease of use. The Chemex excels for flavor purists who don’t mind spending more time and money. The Hario V60 is great for those chasing complex flavors with practice, while the Kalita Wave offers consistency for beginners. Ultimately, the Bodum’s balance of price, style, and performance makes it a top pick for most.

How Many Scoops of Coffee for Bodum Pour Over?

Bodum recommends one scoop (about 7 grams) of medium-ground coffee per 4-ounce cup. For the 34-ounce carafe, I use four scoops (around 30 grams) with 500 ml of water for a strong, balanced brew. Adjust to taste—if you like it stronger, add an extra scoop, but be mindful of grind size to avoid clogging the filter.

Conclusion: For the Bodum Pour Over Coffee Maker

If you’re ready to transform your morning coffee into a ritual that’s both delicious and budget-friendly, the Bodum Pour Over Coffee Maker is a no-brainer. Its sleek design, eco-friendly reusable filter, and forgiving brew process make it perfect for beginners and seasoned sippers alike. For less than the price of a fancy dinner, you’ll get a brewer that delivers bold, aromatic coffee every time. Don’t wait—grab one and start brewing like a pro.