Comparing Hario Switch and Clever Dripper

Mar 15, 2025

Coffee Brewing Methods: Hario Switch vs. Clever Coffee Dripper

Introduction

  • Discussion on personal preference in coffee brewing method.
  • Focus on the Hario Switch as a current favorite.
  • Experimentation with brewing methods and paper filters.

Hario Switch Overview

  • Hario's response to the Clever Coffee Dripper.
  • Features a metal ball bearing stopper at the bottom.
  • Coffee drains when the switch is pushed, similar to a V60.

Brewing Method

  • Use of steep and release technique.
  • Infusion phase followed by percolation.
  • Brewing ratio: 15 grams of coffee to 250 grams of water.
  • Two-minute steep time with a little stir before draining.

Challenges and Observations

  • Slow drawdown time when using Hario Switch.
  • Experimentation with different paper filters to achieve faster drawdowns.
  • Observation of fine particles clogging the filter, slowing down drainage.

Experimentation

  • Comparing the Hario Switch to the Clever Coffee Dripper.
  • Testing immersion phase alone vs. immersion and percolation phases.
  • Use of refractometer to measure coffee extraction.

Results

  • Immersion plus percolation phase vs. just immersion: Immersion phase alone surprisingly not bad.
  • Immersion brewing shows tolerance to grind size, creating decent results even with coarser grinds.
  • Regular immersion plus percolation resulted in better-tasting coffee.

Use of Sybaris Papers

  • Fast-flow filters compared to metal filters, allowing quicker drainage.
  • Reduction in contact time due to faster drainage.
  • Requires finer grind to balance extraction and taste.

Final Thoughts

  • Immersion brewing is advantageous for achieving good texture and mouthfeel.
  • Experimentation demonstrates that faster drawdown doesn't significantly affect extraction negatively.
  • Hario Switch provides a combination of ease of use and a nice balance between immersion and percolation.

Additional Remarks

  • Mention of an advertisement break and grinder giveaway.
  • Promotion of Morning Brew newsletter sponsorship.
  • Introduction of a custom-made coffee-themed Christmas jumper.

Conclusion

  • Encouragement to try various brewing methods and paper filters.
  • Invitation for viewer feedback and comments on personal experiences with the methods discussed.
  • Promise of future content on the Clever Coffee Dripper.