In a way, size doesn’t matter with the Chemex. At least not for the flavor of your coffee. Automatic drip coffee makers usually perform best when you brew a full carafe of coffee. For the Chemex, the only thing that matters is the amount of coffee and the amount of water, not the size of the Chemex.
But one thing to consider is the size of your kettle. Many kettles brew 34oz or 1 liter of water whereas the 10-cup Chemex has a capacity of 50oz or 1.5 liters, and the 8-cup Chemex has a capacity of 40oz or 1.2 liters. So, if you have a 34oz or 1-liter kettle, you’re probably best off with the 6-cup Chemex.
The only situation in which the 3-cup Chemex is preferable is, in my opinion, when you only brew coffee for yourself and when storage space is an issue.
Verdict: In my opinion, the 6-cup Chemex is in the so-called ‘Goldilocks’ zone. Not too big, not too small. Makes a great cup if its only you, and will serve you well when you have friends or family over for coffee.
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