Paper vs metal filter

The choice between a paper and a metal filter determines how clean or texturally heavy your cup will be when brewing with pour-over methods or an AeroPress. Dense paper acts as a tight barrier, trapping micro-particles and most of the natural oils, which results in a highly clear, light beverage where individual tasting notes stand out. A metal filter allows these oils and fine sediment to pass through into the beverage, giving it a thicker texture and a heavier feel on the tongue. Because of this, the exact same specialty coffee can taste bright and fruity through paper, but lean towards a more chocolatey and rich sensation when using metal. Interestingly, rinsing a paper filter with hot water before brewing is a standard practice meant to wash away any papery taste that could alter the final cup.