Quick answer
Our overall pick for the best french press is the QUQIYSO Borosilicate Glass model for its balance of features and ease of cleaning. The other picks suit those looking for a small capacity, a classic brand, a fully non-toxic build, or a rugged insulated design for outdoor use.
Finding the best french press depends on your priorities, whether it’s easy cleaning, durability, or a specific size. A french press is a simple, manual brewer that gives you control over your coffee’s strength and body. We compared the manufacturer specifications and features listed for dozens of models to narrow down these picks.
All the best french press coffee makers here are manual brewers that use a reusable metal filter. The differences come down to materials, capacity, and special features like insulation. Our picks are based on a side-by-side comparison of what each listing promises.
Our picks at a glance
Pros
- Borosilicate glass carafe.
- Dual-filter system with fine mesh.
- Most components are listed as dishwasher safe.
- Can be used for coffee, tea, and cold brew.
Cons
- Lid requires hand washing.
- The listing does not mention a specific capacity.
- Manual operation only.
Pros
- Compact 21oz (0.6L) size.
- No plastic contacts coffee.
- 4-layer stainless steel filter.
- Includes measuring scoop and carafe has ounce markings.
Cons
- Small capacity.
- Designed for hand washing.
- Manual operation only.
Pros
- Entirely 304 stainless steel construction.
- 34oz (1 liter) capacity.
- All parts are dishwasher safe.
- Includes an extra filter screen.
Cons
- Heavier than glass models.
- Manual operation only.
- The listing does not mention insulation properties.
Pros
- Classic, recognizable design.
- High-heat borosilicate glass.
- 34oz (1 liter) capacity.
- Easy-to-clean glass carafe.
Cons
- Not for stovetop use.
- The listing does not specify if parts are dishwasher safe.
- Manual operation only.
Pros
- 316 surgical-grade stainless steel, plastic-free.
- Double-wall insulated.
- Dishwasher safe.
- Includes measuring spoon and carafe has marks.
Cons
- Heavier than glass models.
- Manual operation only.
- The listing does not mention if the filter disassembles for cleaning.
Pros
- Large 64oz capacity.
- Double-wall vacuum insulation.
- Dishwasher safe.
- Rugged build for outdoor use.
Cons
- Large size and weight (over 4 lbs).
- Proprietary filter system.
- Manual operation only.
How we chose
Our editors compiled this list by comparing manufacturer product listings and specifications on Amazon as of October 2026. We did not test, taste, or use these products hands-on. Our selections are based on analyzing the stated features, materials, capacities, and intended uses.
We looked for key criteria to identify the best french press for different situations: the quality of the filter system, the materials used in construction (especially contact with coffee), ease of cleaning, capacity, and any special features like insulation or portability.
Best French Press Coffee Makers: our picks in detail
1. Best overall: QUQIYSO Borosilicate Glass French Press
The QUQIYSO French Press features a borosilicate glass beaker with a copper exterior finish. The listing highlights its two-part filter system with a perforated plate and an 80-mesh screen designed to filter both large and tiny coffee grounds. According to the listing, the glass beaker, filter, and plunger are dishwasher safe, while the lid should be hand washed.
This manual coffee press is listed for making coffee, tea, cold brew, and plant-based drinks. It includes two filters and comes with a user manual. The listing does not specify a capacity.
Best for: Those who want a classic glass french press with a detailed filter system and mostly dishwasher-safe parts.
Pros
- Borosilicate glass carafe.
- Dual-filter system with fine mesh.
- Most components are listed as dishwasher safe.
- Can be used for coffee, tea, and cold brew.
Cons
- Lid requires hand washing.
- The listing does not mention a specific capacity.
- Manual operation only.
2. Best for small capacity: Veken 21oz Small French Press
The Veken French Press is a small, 21-ounce (0.6L) model made with borosilicate glass and 304 stainless steel. A key feature is that no plastic touches the coffee during brewing; all surfaces are stainless steel or food-grade silicone. It uses a 4-layer stainless steel filter for a sludge-free brew.
The glass carafe has ounce markings for measuring and includes a scoop. It is designed for hand washing. The listing recommends it for hot coffee, cold brew, or loose leaf tea and mentions uses for home, travel, camping, or the office.
Best for: Single coffee drinkers or those with limited space who want a plastic-free brewing path.
Pros
- Compact 21oz (0.6L) size.
- No plastic contacts coffee.
- 4-layer stainless steel filter.
- Includes measuring scoop and carafe has ounce markings.
Cons
- Small capacity.
- Designed for hand washing.
- Manual operation only.
3. Best for durability: Secura 34oz Stainless Steel French Press
The Secura French Press is made entirely from 304 grade stainless steel, both inside and out. It has a 34-ounce (1 liter) capacity and features a three-layered stainless steel filter. The listing states it comes with an extra screen, and stacking screens can create a more refined taste.
This model has a cool-touch handle and knob for safe pouring. All parts are listed as dishwasher safe. It is a manual brewer designed for making french press coffee.
Best for: Anyone looking for a sturdy, fully stainless steel french press that’s easy to clean.
Pros
- Entirely 304 stainless steel construction.
- 34oz (1 liter) capacity.
- All parts are dishwasher safe.
- Includes an extra filter screen.
Cons
- Heavier than glass models.
- Manual operation only.
- The listing does not mention insulation properties.
4. Best classic design: Bodum 34oz Chambord French Press
The Bodum Chambord is a classic french press with a high-heat borosilicate glass carafe and a polished stainless steel frame. It has a 34-ounce (1 liter) capacity and uses a reusable #4 size filter. The listing specifies it is for manual use with coarse ground coffee and is not for stovetop use.
Care instructions note to wash in warm, soapy water before first use and that the glass carafe is easy to clean. The spout closes by turning the lid.
Best for: Fans of the iconic french press design who prefer a glass carafe.
Pros
- Classic, recognizable design.
- High-heat borosilicate glass.
- 34oz (1 liter) capacity.
- Easy-to-clean glass carafe.
Cons
- Not for stovetop use.
- The listing does not specify if parts are dishwasher safe.
- Manual operation only.
5. Best non-toxic build: Ziruma 34oz Stainless Steel French Press
The Ziruma French Press is constructed from 316 surgical-grade stainless steel and is listed as 100% plastic-free. It has double-wall insulation to keep coffee hot and the exterior cool. The 34-ounce (1000 ml) press uses a 4-layer filter and includes a measuring spoon; the carafe has built-in measuring marks.
This model is listed as dishwasher safe, portable, and suitable for camping and coffee making. It is a manual brewer with a reusable filter.
Best for: Health-conscious buyers seeking a fully plastic-free, insulated stainless steel french press.
Pros
- 316 surgical-grade stainless steel, plastic-free.
- Double-wall insulated.
- Dishwasher safe.
- Includes measuring spoon and carafe has marks.
Cons
- Heavier than glass models.
- Manual operation only.
- The listing does not mention if the filter disassembles for cleaning.
6. Best for outdoors: YETI Rambler 64oz French Press
The YETI Rambler French Press is a large, 64-ounce model built with 18/8 stainless steel and double-wall vacuum insulation to keep coffee hot. It features a proprietary “GroundsControl” filter designed to separate grounds and stop the brewing process after plunging.
This press is listed as dishwasher safe, portable, and built for rugged use in activities like backpacking, camping, and traveling. It is a manual brewer that uses ground coffee.
Best for: Outdoor enthusiasts or groups needing a large, tough, and insulated french press.
Pros
- Large 64oz capacity.
- Double-wall vacuum insulation.
- Dishwasher safe.
- Rugged build for outdoor use.
Cons
- Large size and weight (over 4 lbs).
- Proprietary filter system.
- Manual operation only.
Our picks at a glance
| Model | Capacity | Key Material | Filter Layers | Dishwasher Safe? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| QUQIYSO Borosilicate Glass | Not listed | Borosilicate Glass | 2 (plate + 80 mesh) | Most parts |
| Veken 21oz Small | 21oz / 0.6L | Borosilicate Glass & Stainless Steel | 4 | No (hand wash) |
| Secura 34oz Stainless Steel | 34oz / 1L | 304 Stainless Steel | 3 | Yes |
| Bodum 34oz Chambord | 34oz / 1L | Borosilicate Glass | Not listed | Not listed |
| Ziruma 34oz Non-Toxic | 34oz / 1000 ml | 316 Stainless Steel | 4 | Yes |
| YETI Rambler 64oz | 64oz | 18/8 Stainless Steel | GroundsControl | Yes |
How to choose the best french press
The best french press for you depends on how you plan to use it. The core principle is simple: steep coarse ground coffee in hot water, then press a metal filter down to separate the grounds. This method, explained in our guide on how a french press works, produces a full-bodied cup. When comparing models, focus on these key aspects from the product listings.
What to look for
- Material & Build: Glass carafes let you see the brew but can break. Stainless steel is durable and often insulated to keep coffee hot longer. Check if any plastic touches the coffee if that’s a concern.
- Filter System: More mesh layers or screens generally mean fewer fine grounds (“sludge”) in your cup. Some models include extra screens.
- Capacity: Choose a size that matches how much coffee you make at once. Sizes range from single-serving (like 21oz) to large group sizes (like 64oz).
- Ease of Cleaning: Many stainless steel models and some glass beakers are dishwasher safe. Filters should disassemble for rinsing. Check the care instructions.
- Special Features: Insulation keeps coffee hot. Ounce markings and included scoops help with measurement. A cool-touch handle improves safety.
Think about where you’ll use it. A compact, durable model is best for travel or camping, while a classic glass press might be perfect for your kitchen counter. For a comparison of different manual brew methods, see our article on manual coffee brewers compared. Always follow the manufacturer’s manual for use, cleaning, and safety.
FAQ
What’s the difference between a glass and stainless steel french press?
Glass french presses, like our overall pick from QUQIYSO, offer a classic look and let you watch the coffee brew. Stainless steel models, like those from Secura or Ziruma, are more durable, resistant to breaking, and often have double-wall insulation to keep your coffee hot for longer. Some stainless steel models are also fully plastic-free.
Can I make tea in a french press?
Yes, many listings, including those for the QUQIYSO and Veken models, specifically mention using the french press for brewing loose leaf tea, cold brew, and other plant-based drinks. Just be sure to clean it thoroughly afterwards to avoid coffee flavors transferring to your tea.
Are french press coffee makers dishwasher safe?
It depends on the model. Some, like the Secura and Ziruma, list all parts as dishwasher safe. Others, like the QUQIYSO, may have dishwasher-safe beakers and filters but require hand washing for the lid. Always check the “Care Instructions” in the product listing or manual.
Why does my french press coffee have sludge at the bottom?
A small amount of fine sediment is normal with the metal filters used in french presses. Models with more filter layers (like the 4-layer filters in the Veken and Ziruma) are designed to minimize this. Using a coarser grind size on your coffee beans can also help reduce sludge.
References
- Amazon product listings and manufacturer specifications (accessed October 2026)
- How a French Press Works: Parts, Filters and Materials
- Pour Over, French Press, Moka Pot, Cold Brew and Siphon: Manual Brewers Compared
