The ratio of coffee to water decides how strong your cup tastes. A common starting point is about 1 gram of coffee to 15 to 17 grams of water, which is close to 1:16. Weighing both gives the most consistent results.
Quick ratio chart
- Pour-over and drip: 1:15 to 1:17
- French press: 1:15
- Moka pot: fill the water chamber to the valve and the basket with coffee, since the pot sets the ratio
- Espresso: about 1:2 coffee to liquid out
- Cold brew concentrate: 1:4 to 1:8, diluted before drinking
- Turkish coffee: about 7 g per 60 to 75 ml
Convert to scoops and cups
If you do not have a scale, a level tablespoon of ground coffee is about 5 g. For a 12 oz (350 g) mug at 1:16, use about 22 g, which is around 4 tablespoons. A scale is still better, since scoops vary with grind and roast.
Ratios by method
French press
Use 1:15 with a coarse grind and four minutes of steeping. For a 34 oz press, see French press coffee ratio.
Pour-over
Use 1:16 with a medium grind. Details are in our V60 guide. A V60 Glass Server, 360ml helps you measure.
Moka pot
Fill the bottom to just under the valve with hot water, and fill the basket level without pressing. See how to use a moka pot.
Cold brew
Use 1:5 for concentrate and dilute with water or milk, or 1:8 for ready-to-drink. See cold brew at home.
How to adjust
- Too strong or bitter: use less coffee or more water, or grind coarser.
- Too weak or sour: use more coffee, or grind finer.
- Change only one variable at a time.
Grind size and ratio work together. Use the grind size chart.
Tools worth having
- A kitchen scale with a timer.
- A good grinder: see grinders under $50.
- A kettle. For beginners, see brewing equipment for beginners.
Water matters
Coffee is more than 98 percent water. Use clean, filtered water if your tap water has a strong taste. Hot water should be about 195 to 205 F (90 to 96 C).
FAQ
What is the golden ratio?
Most guides use 1:15 to 1:18. Start at 1:16 and adjust.
How many scoops for 8 cups?
It depends on your cup size and scoop. Weigh the water and divide by 16 to get the coffee weight.
Does roast level change the ratio?
Slightly. Darker roasts are less dense, so by volume you may use more scoops. Weight stays consistent.
