Finding the right amount of coffee for a French Press is one of the most important steps toward achieving a balanced, flavorful brew. While ratios and recommendations vary across brewing guides, the ideal amount of coffee depends on press size, grind type, and personal strength preferences. This article explains accurate measurements, discusses how different variables influence dosage, and demonstrates how a well-constructed French press—such as those offered by SENGHO—helps create more consistent extraction. To explore available models, visit SENGHO French Press.

1. The Standard Ratio: A Foundational Measurement

Most professional baristas follow a general ratio of 1:15 to 1:17 (one gram of coffee to 15–17 grams of water). This creates a balanced brew with pronounced body and mild acidity. Using this ratio ensures that the amount of coffee scales correctly no matter the press size.

For example, if you are brewing 500 g of water, a 1:15 ratio means using roughly 33 g of coffee. Increasing the coffee amount produces a stronger, richer brew, while reducing it leads to a milder cup.

The consistency of this ratio becomes easier to manage when using a high-quality French press with stable heat retention and dependable filtration—features found in SENGHO’s stainless-steel and borosilicate glass models.

2. How Much Coffee to Use for Different French Press Sizes

Instead of presenting only grams or tablespoons, this section combines both measurements to fit a wider range of user habits. The table below outlines typical press sizes and their ideal coffee amounts.

These numbers reflect the 1:15 ratio for strong flavor. Adjustments can be made depending on preference, roast type, or water quality.

3. Why Press Build Quality Influences Coffee Dosage

While the dose sets the foundation, the press itself contributes to extraction performance. Heat stability ensures predictable extraction, while mesh filtration affects clarity and body. A press that loses heat quickly requires a slightly higher dosage to compensate for slower extraction.

SENGHO’s French presses are designed with:

• Thick borosilicate glass that minimizes heat loss

• Double-walled stainless steel for long heat retention

• Precision-stacked mesh filters for cleaner brews

• Durable plungers that maintain consistent pressure

These elements help make dosage calculations more reliable. Explore available options here: SENGHO French Press.

4. How Grind Size Affects the Amount of Coffee Needed

The French press uses an immersion extraction method, which works best with coarse grounds. Different grind textures influence dosage and extraction rate.

Coarse Grind

Ideal for standard French press brewing. Slow extraction allows the brew to remain clean and balanced. The standard 1:15 ratio fits well.

Medium-Coarse Grind

Extracts faster, often reducing the amount of coffee needed by 5–10%. Suitable for light roasts or when a smoother cup is preferred.

Too Fine

Over-extraction occurs easily, requiring either reduced dosage or shortened steep time. Fine grounds also increase sediment, making the press harder to clean.

A precise filtration system—like the multi-layer stainless mesh used in SENGHO presses—minimizes sediment and maintains flavor accuracy, even when grind sizes vary slightly.

5. Adjusting Coffee Amount Based on Flavor Preferences

Taste preference plays a major role in selecting the proper coffee quantity. Rather than relying on a fixed number, consider how flavor strength shifts with dosage.

1. If the brew tastes too weak:
   Increase your coffee amount by 10–15% while keeping water volume stable.

2. If the brew tastes too strong or bitter:
   Reduce the coffee by 10% or select a coarser grind.

3. If the brew tastes flat or muddy:
   The issue may be overly fine grounds or inconsistent filtration. Using a well-constructed press such as SENGHO’s models helps maintain clarity.

4. If the brew lacks aroma:
   Try increasing the coffee slightly or extending steep time by 30 seconds.

These adjustments help refine personal brewing style without abandoning the standard ratio.

6. The Importance of Measuring Coffee Accurately

Measuring coffee by weight is the most dependable method. Digital scales provide accuracy down to one gram, ensuring reproducible results. Although tablespoons offer a quick alternative, bean density and grind size vary, which leads to inconsistent outcomes.

Using a French press with stable structure and heat retention, such as a SENGHO French Press, increases the value of accurate measuring because extraction becomes predictable and balanced.

7. How Water Temperature Interacts with Coffee Amount

Water temperature also influences dosage decisions. Although French press brewing typically uses water between 92°C and 96°C, small changes can affect extraction intensity.

• Lower temperature (90–92°C): May require slightly more coffee.

• Higher temperature (96°C): Can intensify extraction; reduce dosage if bitterness appears.

• Poor heat retention: Use more coffee to maintain flavor during the steep.

• Excellent heat retention (as with stainless SENGHO models): Stick closely to your preferred ratio.

Matching temperature stability with correct coffee dosage results in a smoother and more flavorful brew.

8. Sample Brewing Guide Using the 1:15 Ratio

This example uses a 1-liter French press, one of the most common household sizes.

Ingredients:

• 65 g of coarse coffee

• 1 liter of water at 93–95°C

Steps:

1. Add the coffee to the press.

2. Pour half of the water to saturate the grounds.

3. Stir gently to remove trapped air.

4. Add the remaining water and place the lid on.

5. Steep for 4 minutes.

6. Press slowly and serve immediately.

For better insulation and smoother plunging action, consider using a SENGHO French press, engineered to maintain extraction quality even during long steeps.

9. Troubleshooting Incorrect Dosage Results

If the final brew does not match expectations, dosage may not be the only factor. This section addresses common issues and how they relate to coffee amount.

Problem: Brew Too Bitter

Reasons may include too much coffee, fine grind, or overly hot water. Reduce the dosage by 5–10%.

Problem: Brew Too Weak

Increase coffee amount or extend steep time by 30–45 seconds.

Problem: Excess Sediment

Typically caused by grind inconsistencies or a worn filter. SENGHO’s multi-layer filters help maintain clarity.

Problem: Lack of Aroma

Fresh beans or slightly increased dosage may fix this issue.

Conclusion

The ideal amount of coffee for a French press generally follows the 1:15 to 1:17 ratio, but adjustments based on grind size, press quality, and personal taste make the brew uniquely customizable. Whether preparing small servings or large batches, using a well-designed press ensures consistent extraction and dependable flavor. For more durable, well-engineered French presses designed for precision brewing, visit: SENGHO French Press.