When it comes to speciality coffee brewing, there are countless tools to explore, but two standout contenders often compared are the Hario Switch and the AeroPress. Both deliver excellent results, but they differ in style, technique, and flavour outcomes. If you're curious about which brewer suits your coffee journey, read on as we delve into the positives, negatives, and brewing methods for each one.

Hario Switch: Precision Meets Simplicity

The Hario Switch combines the convenience of immersion brewing with the clean clarity of a pour-over. It features a switch mechanism that allows you to control when the brewed coffee is released into your cup, offering a unique balance between immersion and percolation brewing styles.

Positives

1. Control Over Brew Time: The Switch enables precise control of steeping time, which is ideal for highlighting subtle flavour notes in speciality coffee.

2. Versatility: You can use it as a pour-over dripper or an immersion brewer, making it highly adaptable.

3. Clean Cup: Paired with a paper filter, the Switch delivers a clean, sediment-free brew.

4. Elegant Design: With its sleek glass construction, the Hario Switch is a beautiful addition to any coffee station.

Negatives

1. Fragile: Made of glass, it requires careful handling to avoid breakage — not as easy to transport as the Aeropress.

2. Learning Curve: While versatile, mastering its dual brewing approach can take time.

3. Capacity: The Switch is limited in brew size, making it less ideal for brewing large volumes.

AeroPress: Versatility and Portability

The AeroPress is a compact and durable brewing device known for its simplicity and versatility. It combines immersion and pressure brewing, allowing for quick and flavourful extractions.

Positives

1. Portable and Durable: Lightweight and made of plastic, the AeroPress is perfect for travel and outdoor brewing.

2. Versatility: Offers multiple brewing methods, including espresso-like shots, cold brew, and regular coffee.

3. Easy Cleanup: The plunger mechanism makes cleanup effortless.

4. Quick Brew Time: Coffee can be ready in as little as one to two minutes.

5. Plunger: I like having the ability to draw down the coffee quickly using the plunger. With the Switch, I have to wait for the water to draw through the coffee bed and filter paper.

Negatives

1. Lacks Precision: The standard AeroPress method may lack the refined control combined with simplicity offered by the Hario Switch. This point is linked with Point 3, and I use additional steps to remove the fines, possibly introduced because of the added pressure.

2. Requires Effort: Although minimal effort is needed, plunging can be an added physically step compared to the hands-off approach of the Switch. I have no issues with the step of plunging, but assembling the plunger into the main cylinder has become tricky with time, possibly because I need to replace the rubber seal. These are relatively cheap, though, however, I do not expect any deterioration with the Switch. While writing this post, I reminded myself to by a rubber seal and it was just over £10 with postage.

3. Sediment: Even with a paper filter, fine sediment can sometimes pass through. I find that coffee brewed with the Aeropress to contain more fines, possibly why a lot of people use two filter papers.

Brewing Recipes

Hario Switch Recipe

What you need:

• 15 g of freshly ground coffee (medium-fine grind)

• 240 ml of water (92-94°C)

• Paper filter

Steps:

1. Rinse the paper filter with hot water to remove any papery taste and warm the Switch.

2. Add the coffee grounds to the Switch.

3. Pour 50 ml of hot water to bloom the coffee for 30 seconds.

4. Slowly pour the remaining 190 ml of water in a circular motion.

5. Let the coffee steep for 2 minutes, then release the switch to draw down the coffee into your cup.

6. Enjoy a clean, balanced brew with bright acidity and sweetness.

AeroPress Recipe (Inverted Method)

What you need:

• 17 g of freshly ground coffee (medium-fine grind)

• 220 ml of water (94°C)

• Paper filter

Steps:

1. Assemble the AeroPress in its inverted position and place the paper filter in the cap. Rinse the filter with hot water.

2. Add coffee grounds to the chamber.

3. Pour 50 ml of water, stir gently, and let it bloom for 30 seconds.

4. Add the remaining 170 ml of water, stir again, and secure the filter cap.

5. After 2 minutes, invert the AeroPress over your cup and plunge slowly for 30 seconds.

6. Enjoy a rich, full-bodied cup with enhanced sweetness and clarity.

Which Brewer is Right for You?

Choose the Hario Switch if:

• You value clean, delicate flavours.

• You enjoy experimenting with brew time and techniques.

• Aesthetic appeal and elegance matter to you.

Choose the AeroPress if:

• Portability and durability are essential.

• You prefer versatility in brewing styles—I have yet to try the recipes, but I expect you could achieve brews with higher total dissolved solids (stronger) with the Aeropress vs Switch. For example, using more rigorous stirring while the coffee is brewing, which one might not do in the Switch’s cone with a delicate filter paper.

• Speed and convenience are your priorities.

Conclusion

Both the Hario Switch and AeroPress offer unique benefits, catering to different preferences and brewing needs. The Hario Switch is ideal for those who appreciate clarity and elegance, while the AeroPress is perfect for adventurers who crave versatility and convenience. No matter which you choose, both devices bring out the best in your coffee beans, allowing you to savour every sip.

Explore our selection of freshly roasted speciality coffee beans at Fission and Bloom, perfectly suited for both the Hario Switch and AeroPress. Ready to elevate your coffee experience? Let's brew