AeroPress vs. AeroPress Go: Key Differences
AeroPress Original vs. AeroPress Go: which is better? Both use the same general immersion-and-press brewing method. The Original suits regular home brewing, while the Go emphasizes portability with an integrated travel mug and packing-friendly design. They produce similar coffee styles, including strong espresso-style concentrate rather than traditional high-pressure espresso. For leaks or pressing difficulties, see our AeroPress troubleshooting guide.
This article focuses on the AeroPress Original and AeroPress Go, not the company’s entire current lineup. Other models, including the larger AeroPress XL and the glass-and-metal Premium, have different capacities or materials. Consider how you plan to use your brewer before choosing a model.
Related Topic: AeroPress Go Travel Coffee Maker Review
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the Original AeroPress and the AeroPress Go, comparing their features, benefits, and drawbacks to help you decide which one is right for you.
AeroPress Models Compared
AeroPress Brewing Products Compared
Compare the key features, then see current product details and pricing on Amazon.
- Paper-filtered concentrate or regular coffee
- Small batch
- Follow maker safety guidance
- Designed to reduce early drip-through
- Metal filter
- Confirm exact model fit
- Alternative to paper
- Compatible with listed Original/Go
- Clean after brewing
- Fine filtration
- Disposable
- Check filter format and pack count
As an Amazon Associate, we may earn a small commission from qualifying purchases.
What is an AeroPress?
The Aeropress is a manual coffee maker that uses air pressure to extract the flavor of coffee. It was invented by Alan Adler, an aerodynamics engineer and inventor, in 2005. The Aeropress is known for its simplicity and versatility, as it can brew espresso-like coffee, cappuccino, latte, and American-style coffee.
The device consists of a cylindrical chamber, a plunger, and a filter cap. The user brews coffee by placing a paper or metal filter in the filter cap, adding ground coffee and hot water to the chamber, and then pressing the plunger through the chamber to extract the coffee.
Where is The AeroPress Made?
AeroPress was founded by inventor Alan Adler in California. The Original and Go coffee makers are manufactured in the United States, according to the manufacturer’s current product information. Other AeroPress models and accessories may be manufactured elsewhere, so consult AeroPress’s manufacturing details for each product.
AeroPress Original vs. Go: Brewing Differences
The Original Aeropress and the Aeropress Go are designed to brew coffee using the same basic method, but there are some differences to keep in mind regarding brewing.
The Original offers more brew capacity than the Go while following the same basic immersion-and-press method. Both use Standard-size filters and allow adjustments to grind, dose, water temperature and steep time.
Related Topic: Aeropress Premium
The Original can make a slightly larger single serving than the Go, or concentrated coffee to dilute for multiple small drinks. Both brewers can produce a clean-textured cup with a properly fitted paper filter, but filtration alone does not guarantee perfect extraction.
The Go packs into its included travel mug but has a smaller chamber than the Original. AeroPress lists a roughly 8-ounce brewing capacity for one filtered coffee serving, while the mug holds about 15 ounces; filling the mug with regular coffee requires more than one pressing or additional water. For the difference between the chamber and mug, see the official AeroPress FAQ.
Both the Original and Go include disposable paper micro-filters. Reusable metal filters are sold separately and may fit both models in the Standard size. The Go does not normally include a metal filter in its basic kit.
The Original offers a little more capacity for everyday home use; the Go prioritizes a compact packing system. Brew control is broadly similar, so choose based on serving size and convenience rather than an assumed difference in coffee quality.
Design and Portability
I can confidently say that the Aeropress is a game-changer when brewing a delicious cup of coffee. The design of the Original Aeropress is not only sleek and modern but also incredibly user-friendly and easy to clean.
The cylindrical chamber, plunger, and filter cap combine to create a rich, full-bodied coffee that rivals even the most expensive espresso machines.
Related Topic: AeroPress vs Pour-Over
But the Aeropress isn’t just for home use; the Aeropress Go takes portability to the next level. As a coffee lover, I understand the importance of enjoying a delicious coffee on the go.
The Aeropress Go is smaller and more lightweight than the Original Aeropress, making it easy to pack and take wherever you go. With its travel mug included, you can enjoy a delicious cup of coffee wherever you are. The Aeropress Go is the perfect companion for coffee lovers always on the move.
In short, The Aeropress is the ultimate brewer, whether you’re looking to brew a delicious cup of coffee at home or on the go. Its user-friendly design and portability offer the perfect solution for any coffee lover.
Brewing Time and Capacity
When it comes to brewing time, the Aeropress is a true champion. The process takes only minutes, from adding the coffee grounds to the chamber to pressing the plunger. This means you can enjoy a delicious cup of coffee in no time without waiting for a traditional coffee brewer to finish brewing.
According to AeroPress’s current product lineup, the Original has a brewing capacity of about 10 US fluid ounces, or roughly 296 ml. That is generally one full cup rather than four full cups brewed directly in a single press.
The Go can brew about one 8-ounce serving directly, or concentrated coffee for dilution into several smaller drinks. It does not directly produce three full 8-ounce cups in one press. For safety and consistency, follow the standard upright method rather than relying on inversion.
I prefer to brew a single cup of coffee with the arrow press using 16 g of coffee with 200 grams of water. This ratio can be adjusted to your taste, but it is a great starting point. To make multiple cups of coffee simultaneously, you can increase the amount of coffee and water, press it out into two separate cups, and add hot water to make it more like an Americano.
Taste and Quality of Coffee
The Original AeroPress and the AeroPress Go produce the same high-quality coffee because the process is the same. The significant difference is the Original version can easily be pressed into a regular cup, whereas the AeroPress Go gets pressed into the provided plastic cup.
For this reason, I prefer the original AeroPress because I don’t like drinking hot beverages out of plastic cups. Using freshly ground beans, ground coffee, or specialty coffee using the proper coffee to water ratio makes a great cup of coffee, regardless of which one you choose.
Cost
Prices can change by retailer and market, so they should not be assumed identical. Compare current listings, included accessories and serving sizes. Choose the Original if you favor home brewing capacity, or the Go if packing neatly into a mug matters most.
Filters
Both the Original AeroPress and AeroPress Go use Standard-size paper micro-filters. A Standard-size reusable stainless-steel filter is an optional purchase for either one; metal filtration is not uniquely included with the Go.
The metal microfilter is also more durable and long-lasting than paper filters. However, some coffee enthusiasts prefer the taste of coffee made with paper filters, as they believe it has a smoother and more nuanced flavor. You can purchase the AeroPress stainless steel mesh filter if you prefer reusable filters.
Coffee Grinds
The Original Aeropress and the Aeropress Go can be used with fine to medium-fine coffee grounds. Finer grinds are typically used for espresso-like coffee, while medium-fine grinds are more suited for American-style coffee.
The AerPress uses air pressure to extract the flavor of coffee, which allows it to extract more flavor from finer grinds than traditional coffee makers. This means you can enjoy a flavorful, rich cup of coffee using a wide range of grinds.
With the AeroPress, you have complete control over the grind size, brew time, and water temperature, so you can make repeatable adjustments to strength and flavor. A consistent dose and serving size help when comparing the two brewers.
Cleaning
The Original Aeropress is designed to be disassembled for cleaning, making it easy to clean all parts of the device. The filter cap, chamber, and plunger can be easily taken apart and washed with warm, soapy water. You can also put the dishwasher on the top shelf if you prefer. The paper filters can be disposed of after use, and the metal filters can be rinsed with water and dried.
On the other hand, the Aeropress Go has a more compact design. Instead, it can be cleaned by removing the used coffee grounds and rinsing the chamber and filter cap with warm, soapy water.
The travel mug can also be washed in the same way. The paper filters can be disposed of after use, and the metal filters can be rinsed with water and dried.
Original Aeropress and Aeropress Go are easy to clean and maintain, and with proper care, they will last for many years.
Accessories
The Original typically comes with standard brewing accessories such as filters, a scoop and stirrer. The Go includes a mug and lid that also serve as a carrying container, plus a folding stirrer, scoop and travel filter holder. A separate cleaning brush, metal filter or bag should not be assumed to come with the standard Go package.
There are quite a few accessories available on Amazon ranging from stainless steel mesh filters, eco-friendly paper filters, custom filter holders for producing espresso-style coffee.
Durability
The Aeropress is known for its durability and longevity. The device is made of high-quality, BPA-free plastic designed to withstand the pressure of the brewing process. The materials used in the construction of the Aeropress are also heat resistant, making it safe to use with hot water.
The Original Aeropress and the Aeropress Go are both built to withstand regular use and are known to last for many years, even with daily use. The device is not prone to wear and tear and can maintain its functionality over time. The replacement parts, such as paper or metal filters, and the rubber seals that may wear down over time, are readily available and easy to replace.
AeroPress Original vs. Go: Size and Weight
The Original’s assembled chamber and compressed plunger are approximately 5.26 inches tall and 4.22 inches at their widest point, according to AeroPress’s dimensional specifications. Measurements may be listed differently with accessories or when fully extended.
The Go’s chamber is approximately 4.5 inches tall and 3.6 inches wide. Packed into the included mug with its accessories and filters, the complete travel kit weighs about 11.4 ounces (323 g), according to AeroPress. Compare packed size rather than bare chamber size for travel.
The size and weight difference between the Original Aeropress and the Aeropress Go is significant, and it makes the Aeropress Go more portable and convenient to take with you on the go.
The Original Aeropress is more suitable for home use, while the Aeropress Go is designed to be more portable and easy to take with you on the go. The Aeropress Go also comes with its travel mug, making it even more convenient for coffee lovers on the move.
The Original Aeropress is larger and heavier than the Aeropress Go, and the Aeropress Go is designed to be more portable and convenient to take with you.
Both devices are easy to use and produce a delicious cup of coffee, but the Original Aeropress is more suitable for home use, while the Aeropress Go is designed to be more portable and easy to take with you on the go.
If you are interested in drip coffee makers, I’ve got a post for you: Top 5 Coffee Makers for 2027
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the inverted AeroPress method recommended?
Inverted brewing can alter steeping time, but AeroPress discourages it because the less stable setup creates a hot-liquid spill risk. The standard upright method is the recommended starting point; a compatible Flow Control cap can reduce drip-through.
Why is the AeroPress plunger hard to press?
If the plunger is difficult to press, the grind may be too fine or the filter may be clogged. Use a gentle, steady press and check the equipment and seal for wear. Do not force the plunger; see our AeroPress troubleshooting guide.
Does AeroPress taste better than French press?
AeroPress with a paper filter often gives a cleaner texture than a French press with a metal mesh filter. Whether that tastes better is a personal preference and depends on the beans, grind and recipe; neither method is always less bitter.
Final Thoughts: Original AeroPress vs AeroPress Go Travel Coffee Maker
The biggest difference is convenience and capacity rather than a unique flavor advantage. AeroPress Original provides a little more volume for home brewing; AeroPress Go packs into its travel mug. Both use Standard-size filters and similar brewing techniques.
If you are looking for a coffee brewer that can brew coffee in various ways, whether it’s espresso style coffee, iced coffee, or cold brew, the Aeropress is a great choice. The Aeropress can also brew coffee using a variety of grinds and coffee steeps, which means you can experiment with different AeroPress recipes and find the perfect cup of coffee for your taste.
Many coffee enthusiasts worldwide have already discovered the many benefits of the Aeropress. Whether you’re a traditional coffee drinker or a speciality coffee enthusiast, the Aeropress is a great way to enjoy a delicious cup of coffee. And if you’re feeling adventurous, you can even participate in the AeroPress World Championships. In this annual event, coffee enthusiasts compete to brew the best cup of coffee using an Aeropress.
So, whether you’re looking for a device to replace your traditional french press or a new way to measure and brew coffee, the Aeropress is worth considering. And if you’re wondering whether to choose the Original Aeropress or the Aeropress Go, it all depends on your needs and preferences.
The Original is a practical choice for regular home brewing, while the Go emphasizes a packable kit and smaller travel-oriented setup. Before buying, compare their chamber capacities, included accessories and replacement-filter compatibility, then consider the full AeroPress Go feature review.
