Bodum Java Review

I have reviewed the French Press as a coffee brewing method, this time I am comparing my first French Press from IKEA with one from the original maker, Bodum.

I’d always wanted to try the iconic Chambord model but hadn’t felt the need, figuring a French Press is just a French Press.

However, today I’ve noticed a discount on Bodum’s Java model at Lidl. The Java is essentially a matte black, mostly plastic version of the Chambord, and I thought it was a great opportunity to try out Bodum’s design at a discounted price.

The brand Bodum

Bodum is a renowned brand in the world of coffee and tea, celebrated for its commitment to design, functionality, and sustainability.

Founded in Denmark in 1944, Bodum quickly became a pioneer in innovative brewing methods, with their signature French Press, the Chambord, gaining worldwide recognition.

The brand emphasizes simplicity and elegance, creating products that combine high-quality materials with a minimalistic, Scandinavian aesthetic.

Bodum’s product line includes a wide range of coffee makers, kettles, glassware, and accessories, all crafted with a focus on enhancing the user experience while respecting the environment.

Whether for coffee enthusiasts or casual tea drinkers, Bodum is synonymous with timeless, practical design and a dedication to affordable quality.

The Bodum Java

Cherished by coffee lovers around the world, Bodum’s renowned French press brewing system combines effortless preparation with pure flavor. The JAVA French press boasts a timeless retro design and includes all the essentials needed to create a rich, aromatic brew.

Efficient, stylish, and fast, the JAVA French press turns coarsely ground coffee and hot water into a refreshing cup within minutes. Its plastic carafe ensures that the coffee’s flavor remains untouched, while its sturdy plastic frame reflects Bodum’s philosophy that “good design doesn’t have to be costly.”

As an eco-friendly brewing option, the JAVA French press provides the perfect balance of simplicity and exceptional taste.

Comparison between the Java and the Chambord

The Bodum Chambord boasts a timeless, classic design crafted from stainless steel, glass, and some plastic components. It has an elegant aesthetic, with the classic model featuring sleek nickel accents paired with black details for a refined look.

Similar to my Ikea French Press, the Chambord also features an all-metal filter composed of various parts, including a metal mesh that screws tightly together for a secure fit.

Note that there are multiple sizes and versions of the Java: one with a screw on the handle and one without. The version with the screw features a traditional mesh system similar to the Chambord, while the newer version uses a different type of system, which we’ll discuss further.

In contrast, the Java although having the same design is made almost entirely from BPA-free plastic, including a flexible composite material for the carafe.

The piston and filter mesh itself is metal, but the edges are made from a silicone-like material, likely to prevent scratching the plastic and keep any particles from ending up in your coffee.

The great thing with Bodum is that every parts are replaceable including the silicon join and readily available in their official website or Amazon.

My experience using the Bodum Java

The Java model I found at Lidl was the version without the screw, featuring the silicone seal, and sized for 8 cups or 1L. It was priced at €9.90, compared to €20 on the official website.

For comparison, the Chambord costs around €49.90 for the 1L (8-cup) version on the official website, though it’s often available on sale elsewhere.

First and foremost, the product feels quite lightweight due to its plastic construction, giving it a noticeably cheaper feel compared to other models like the Chambord.

Additionally, the plastic component that holds the glass and features the handle struggles to maintain balance. Unlike the metal version, which had more weight to stabilize it, the all-plastic design tips toward the handle, making it less stable when set down. On the positive side, it still stands upright when the main container is placed inside the holder.

The plastic design does come with some advantages, particularly regarding preparation and cleaning. While the French press has always been a straightforward method for brewing coffee, it’s now nearly as simple as using an Hario V60 decanter.

Easier to clean and dry

You no longer have to disassemble the four components—the piston, holder, mesh, and bottom holder—to clean out the ground coffee.

You can now clean it all at once with soap and water, without worrying about coffee particles getting stuck between the holders.

When you try to wring out the different parts you won’t have these annoying metal parts clunking into one another.

This means that the cleaning process now takes only a few seconds or minutes in total, making it incredibly convenient.

The absence of glass makes it safer to handle and travel with; however, preheating the container isn’t as easy as it is with glass.

Drying the components is much simpler with plastic, as you don’t have to worry about breaking glass. Unlike stainless steel, which can sometimes rust, plastic is resistant to such issues.

The cons

The plastic design with a rubber gasket might not hold up as well over time, and I find that the piston’s upward movement isn’t as smooth as with a well designed metal mesh.

While we often prioritize BPA-free products today, it’s important to recognize that this label doesn’t guarantee complete safety. Personally, I believe that glass and metal are always the superior choices for health, regardless of how safe the plastic may be.

A cleaner coffee?

Overall, I noticed that the coffee contained significantly fewer particles compared to my Ikea French Press with a metal mesh. This is likely because most of the particles come from the walls, and in this case, the silicone gasket ensures that no particles can escape.

This means fewer particles, less caffeine, and overall a cleaner coffee, in my opinion.

Indeed, the reduction of particles in the coffee can also influence the taste and texture of the beverage. Fewer particles lead to a smoother brew, without the bitter taste that can sometimes accompany coarser preparations.

Additionally, a less dense extraction in particles could also mean a more balanced amount of caffeine, allowing you to appreciate the flavors and nuances of the coffee without being overwhelmed by excessive stimulation.

This level of cleanliness and clarity in the coffee not only enhances the tasting experience but can also have health implications. A purer coffee, free from sediments and unwanted residues, may be more enjoyable to consume regularly.

Therefore, choosing a brewing system that minimizes particles can transform your coffee moment into a truly sensory experience without having to deal with the coffee sludge.

The ergonomics

The pouring spout of the Bodum Java is significantly better designed than the one on my Ikea French press, resulting in a much cleaner pouring experience.

The silicone gasket ensures a tight seal, preventing any unwanted movements while the top cover stays securely in place. This thoughtful design allows for easy one-handed pouring, eliminating the hassle of having to hold the entire assembly steady, as is often necessary with metal tops.

Overall, this functionality enhances the brewing process, making it more user-friendly and enjoyable. Whether you’re pouring a single cup or serving multiple guests, the improved spout design and secure cover contribute to a more efficient and less chaotic coffee experience.

Verdict

8.0 out of 10.

This is my first Bodum product, and for the price, it’s honestly hard to beat. While the Java may not be the most durable classic design from the brand, it is certainly one of the most convenient French presses I’ve used.

The plastic container and silicone gasket make cleaning and drying a breeze compared to an all-metal design.

Additionally, this brewer is much less likely to break, which is a significant advantage when you have kids around. On top of all that, the coffee produced is cleaner and less bitter due to fewer particles.

At just 9.90 euros, I believe it’s a no brainer. However, at full price of 19,90 euros, if you prefer a product that offers greater durability and a classic design over convenience, the Chambord might still be the better investment for you.