Coffee to Water Ratio Calculator
Master the Golden Ratio for your perfect brew
Your Brewing Guide:
Understanding the Coffee to Water Ratio
The secret to a café-quality cup of coffee isn't just the beans; it's the coffee-to-water ratio. This ratio determines the extraction levels and the strength of your brew. Even the most expensive Gesha beans will taste sour or bitter if your math is off.
What is the "Golden Ratio"?
The Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) defines the Golden Ratio as roughly 1 gram of coffee for every 17 milliliters of water (1:17). This provides a balanced extraction where the fruity, sweet notes of the coffee are highlighted without being overwhelmed by bitterness.
Common Ratios for Different Brewing Methods
- French Press: 1:12 to 1:15 (A coarser grind requires a more concentrated ratio for body).
- Pour-Over (V60/Chemex): 1:15 to 1:17 (A cleaner cup that benefits from standard ratios).
- AeroPress: 1:13 to 1:15 (Often used for a more concentrated "espresso-style" base).
- Cold Brew: 1:4 to 1:8 (Designed to be a concentrate that is diluted later).
Brewing Math Example
If you have a standard mug that holds 340ml of water and you want to use the 1:17 ratio:
340 ÷ 17 = 20 grams of coffee.
Conversely, if you only have 15 grams of coffee left in the bag and want to know how much water to use for a 1:15 ratio:
15 × 15 = 225ml of water.
Pro Tips for Better Coffee
- Use a Scale: Volumetric measurements (spoons) are inaccurate because bean density varies by roast level.
- Freshness Matters: Grind your beans immediately before brewing to preserve volatile aromatics.
- Water Quality: Since coffee is 98% water, using filtered water prevents chlorine or minerals from affecting the flavor.
- Adjust to Taste: If the coffee is too bitter, try a higher ratio (1:18). If it's too sour or thin, try a lower ratio (1:15).