The French press is one of the most iconic coffee makers in the world — loved for its simplicity, full-bodied flavor, and ability to bring out the natural oils of coffee. But many people wonder: does a French press make coffee or espresso?
The short answer:
A French press makes coffee, not espresso.
While both are strong and flavorful, they’re brewed using very different methods. In this article, we’ll break down how they differ, what kind of coffee a French press produces, and how you can make your French press coffee taste closer to espresso.
A French press brews regular coffee using a method called immersion brewing — the coffee grounds are fully soaked in hot water for several minutes before being filtered by a mesh plunger.
This process produces:
Rich, aromatic coffee
Full-bodied flavor with natural oils
Smoother mouthfeel than drip coffee
More control over strength and extraction
It’s perfect for people who enjoy a strong, bold cup, but it doesn’t create the pressure or crema required for espresso.
| Feature | French Press | espresso machine |
|---|---|---|
| Brewing Method | Immersion (steeping) | Pressure extraction |
| Pressure Used | Manual press (~1–2 bars) | High pressure (~9 bars) |
| Brew Time | 4–6 minutes | 25–30 seconds |
| Grind Size | Coarse | Fine |
| Coffee Texture | Smooth, heavy | Concentrated, thick |
| Crema Layer | None | Yes |
| Equipment Needed | Manual plunger press | Electric or manual espresso maker |
The French press makes a strong, full-bodied cup of coffee.
The espresso machine makes a highly concentrated shot under intense pressure.
Espresso requires:
High pressure (9 bars) — to force hot water through finely ground coffee.
Tight grind consistency — to build resistance for the water.
Precise timing — 25 to 30 seconds of extraction.
A French press doesn’t generate pressure; it only separates coffee grounds from water using a mesh filter. So, while the result is strong coffee, it lacks the crema and concentration of espresso.
You can’t make true espresso in a French press — but you can mimic the flavor and strength with a few brewing tweaks.
Dark roast beans have richer, smokier notes that resemble espresso.
Use a grind between coarse and medium — this increases extraction and makes a bolder brew.
Standard ratio: 1:13
Espresso-style ratio: 1:10 or even 1:8
Example: 50 g coffee for 400 ml water.
Extend steeping time to 6–8 minutes for a more intense flavor.
If you’re craving a café-style drink, heat and froth milk separately, then pour over your French press coffee for a latte-like experience.
| Characteristic | French Press Coffee | Espresso Shot |
|---|---|---|
| Body | Full, smooth | Very thick and dense |
| Taste | Balanced, rich | Intense, concentrated |
| Bitterness | Moderate | Higher due to pressure |
| Aroma | Deep and warm | Strong and sharp |
| Serving Size | 200–250 ml | 30–60 ml |
Both deliver a strong coffee experience, but the French press is ideal for sipping, while espresso is designed for quick, concentrated shots.
A French press is one of the most versatile coffee tools. You can use it for:
Brewing hot coffee
Making cold brew overnight
Frothing milk for cappuccinos
Brewing loose-leaf tea
High-quality designs — like those from Sellwell — make the process effortless and consistent.
Sellwell French presses are built with professional-grade materials and ergonomic precision to bring out the best in every brew.
304 stainless steel mesh filter — keeps coffee grounds out while allowing flavorful oils through.
Heat-resistant borosilicate glass or stainless steel body — maintains optimal brewing temperature.
Ergonomic plunger system — ensures smooth, steady pressing.
Anti-drip spout and comfortable handle — for effortless pouring.
Available in multiple sizes — perfect for home or café use.
These details ensure each cup has the body, aroma, and clarity that French press coffee is known for.
If you want your French press coffee to approach espresso-like intensity, follow these steps:
Use 1:10 ratio (1 part coffee to 10 parts water).
Heat water to 94 °C (201 °F).
Add coffee grounds and stir gently.
Steep for 6 minutes.
Press slowly and pour immediately.
This produces a powerful, aromatic brew that can be used as a base for café-style drinks like flat whites or iced lattes.
| Feature | French Press | Espresso Machine |
|---|---|---|
| Pressure | 1–2 bars (manual) | 9 bars (mechanical) |
| Grind | Coarse | Fine |
| Filter | Metal mesh | Metal puck filter |
| Time | 4–6 minutes | 25 seconds |
| Output | Coffee (200 ml) | Espresso (30 ml) |
| Texture | Full-bodied | Concentrated, creamy |
| Crema | No | Yes |
A French press makes coffee, not espresso — but it creates a strong, aromatic, and flavorful cup that highlights the essence of freshly ground beans.
While espresso relies on pressure, the French press depends on immersion and manual precision, giving you full control over your brew.
For a durable, heat-stable, and beautifully designed option, choose a Sellwell French press — engineered with premium stainless steel filters, borosilicate glass, and ergonomic comfort.
Whether you prefer your coffee smooth or bold, a French press delivers café-quality flavor right in your kitchen — simple, sustainable, and deeply satisfying.
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