If you’re brewing with an Aeropress, one of the simplest yet most versatile coffee makers around, you’ve probably asked yourself: Should I use paper filters or a metal disc?
At Horsham Coffee Roaster, we’re firmly in the paper filter camp — and not just because we stock them. Paper filters offer cleaner cups, more flavour clarity, and zero hassle when it comes to brewing and cleanup.
Here’s a breakdown of paper vs metal filters for Aeropress, and why paper might be the better choice for your daily brew.
Paper Filters for Aeropress: Clean, Clear, and Convenient
Paper filters are the standard filter type that comes with the Aeropress. They’re thin, single-use, and made to deliver a clean, crisp cup with excellent clarity.
Benefits of Paper Filters:
- Paper captures most of the coffee oils and fine particles, giving you a smooth, grit-free cup
- Fewer fines pass through, meaning less sediment at the bottom of your cup
- Pop the puck out with the filter attached and compost it (ours are biodegradable)
- Highlights the brightness and subtle flavours of specialty single origin coffees
If you’re brewing one of our light to medium roast coffees, paper is the best way to taste the nuance and complexity in the cup.
What About Metal Filters?
Metal Aeropress filters are reusable discs (usually stainless steel or titanium) that slot into your Aeropress instead of paper. They appeal to eco-conscious brewers or those who prefer a fuller-bodied cup.
Drawbacks of Metal Filters:
- Oils and fines pass through, creating a muddy or over-extracted taste
- Needs rinsing and brushing to prevent buildup
- Can mute bright flavours and amplify bitterness
- Particularly noticeable with inverted brews
While we love sustainability, we believe the taste trade-off isn’t worth it — especially when our paper filters are compostable and come in recyclable packaging.
Paper vs Metal Filters: A Quick Comparison
| Feature | Paper Filters | Metal Filters |
|---|---|---|
| Cup Clarity | ✅ Very high | ❌ Lower (more fines/oils) |
| Body | ❌ Lighter | ✅ Heavier |
| Best For | Light to medium roasts | Darker roasts, immersion |
| Flavour Accuracy | ✅ Highlights subtle notes | ❌ Often muddied |
| Cleanup | ✅ Quick + compostable | ❌ Requires scrubbing |
| Sustainability | ✅ Biodegradable | ✅ Reusable, not always recyclable |
FAQ: Aeropress Filter Questions
Are paper filters bad for the environment?
Not the ones we sell — they’re fully biodegradable and compostable. Plus, you use just one small disc per brew.
Can I reuse Aeropress paper filters?
Yes – with gentle rinsing and drying, many customers reuse them once or twice. But for best results, we recommend using fresh ones.
Will paper filters remove oils from my coffee?
Yes – and that’s the point! By capturing oils and fines, they create a crisper, sweeter, and more refined cup.
Do metal filters save money?
Potentially, but the taste difference – especially with high-end specialty coffee – often outweighs the savings.
Wrap-Up: Go Paper, Taste More
We love the Aeropress because it’s versatile, fast, and portable. But to get the best out of your coffee, your choice of filter matters.
For clarity, flavour, and consistency — paper filters are the clear winner.
Whether you’re brewing at home, in the office, or on the road, don’t compromise on taste.
Aeropress filters
