AeroPress Coffee Maker – Original XL Review: Bigger Brew, Same Signature Flavor
Want AeroPress flavor but need more volume? The AeroPress Coffee Maker – Original XL raises the bar with double the capacity of the standard AeroPress. This review covers what the XL does differently, how it performs in everyday use, and whether it’s worth the $79.95 price tag.
Quick overview: What the AeroPress XL is and who it’s for
The AeroPress Original XL is a larger version of the classic AeroPress that combines French press, pour-over, and espresso-style brewing into one compact press. It includes a 20 oz Tritan™ carafe and an updated chamber that accepts unique XL paper filters. It’s designed for coffee lovers who need 1–2 generous cups (or up to 2–4 small cups) quickly and without grit or bitter flavors.
Why the AeroPress XL stands out
- 3-in-1 brew technology: Full-bodied like a French press, smooth like a pour-over, and rich like espresso.
- Fast brewing: Expect a brew time of about 1–2 minutes from start to finish.
- Low bitterness and no grit: The combination of immersion and pressure extracts flavor cleanly.
- Portable and durable: Lightweight components and a shatterproof 20 oz Tritan carafe make it travel-friendly.
- Well-reviewed: Rated 4.84 out of 5 from 655 reviews, indicating strong user satisfaction.
Key features and real-world benefits
1. Double capacity with a 20 oz Tritan carafe
The XL doubles the chamber size of the Original, which means you can brew one generous cup or enough for two people without repeating the process. The included carafe is made from Tritan™, a crystal-clear, shatterproof material that’s ideal for serving and travel. In practice this means fewer rounds when making coffee for a partner, small family, or office desk.
2. Signature AeroPress flavor—fast
The AeroPress method uses immersion followed by gentle pressure to extract coffee. The result is a cup with the body of a French press, the clarity of pour-over, and the intensity of espresso-style brews. For busy mornings or when you want a quick Americano or latte base, the XL delivers clean, consistent results in about two minutes.
3. XL-specific paper filters
The AeroPress XL requires XL paper filters. These are larger and made specifically for the XL’s diameter and height. Expect slightly higher cost per filter compared to the standard filters; this is a supply-volume issue, not a difference in material quality. Still, the filters keep sediment out of your cup, so you get grit-free coffee every time.
4. Versatility—recipes and styles
- Brew a concentrated espresso-style shot for lattes and cappuccinos.
- Make an Americano by adding hot water to the concentrate.
- Try a shorter immersion time and finer grind for espresso-like intensity.
- Use coarser grinds and longer steep for a fuller-bodied cup similar to French press.
- Cold brew and iced variations work well with longer steep times.
5. Easy cleaning and maintenance
Daily cleaning is simple: the plunger wipes the chamber clean, and a rinse is usually enough. The AeroPress XL is dishwasher-safe on the top rack. For a deeper clean, remove the plunger seal and wash with warm, soapy water.
Practical considerations
| Price | $79.95 USD |
| Capacity | 20 oz carafe; brews 2–4 cups (small) |
| Filters | XL paper filters (unique size) |
| Shipping & returns | Free U.S. shipping on orders over $55; 30-day returns (U.S.) |
| Ratings | Aggregate rating 4.84 (655 reviews) |
Safety and use tips
- Do not press into thin or delicate glassware. Use the included Tritan carafe or a sturdy mug.
- The inverted method is discouraged for the XL: it’s less stable and can lead to spills and burns.
- Grind size: medium-fine works best for balanced extraction; adjust to taste.
Rated 4.84/5 by 655 reviewers—users praise the XL for larger single-brew volume and clean, full-bodied flavor.
Pros and cons at a glance
Pros
- Double capacity compared to the standard AeroPress.
- Fast, repeatable brewing with low bitterness and no grit.
- Portable, lightweight, and includes a shatterproof carafe.
- Versatile—works for espresso-style shots, Americanos, pour-over-like clarity, and cold brew variations.
- Easy to clean and dishwasher-safe (top rack).
Cons
- Requires unique XL paper filters that cost more per filter than standard AeroPress filters.
- Not recommended to press into glass; need to use the carafe or a sturdy mug.
- Users who want a true espresso machine won’t get crema and pressure-equivalent extraction.
Final verdict — who should buy the AeroPress Original XL?
If you love the AeroPress flavor profile but often need more than a single 8–12 oz cup, the AeroPress XL is a smart upgrade. It’s ideal for:
- Couples or small households who prefer brewing once for two people.
- Office desks where quick, high-quality coffee for more than one coworker is needed.
- Travelers who want durable, shatterproof gear and more volume per brew.
- Home baristas who value versatility—espresso-style shots, Americanos, pour-over clarity, and cold brew options.
Who should skip it:
- Those on a tight budget who prefer the lower-cost standard AeroPress and filters.
- Coffee drinkers who want a full espresso machine with high-pressure extraction and crema.
- Users who insist on pressing into delicate glass—this model requires sturdier serving vessels.
Overall, the AeroPress Coffee Maker – Original XL is a practical, well-built upgrade for fans of the AeroPress method who need more capacity without sacrificing flavor. At $79.95 USD, with free U.S. shipping offers and a 30-day return window, it’s a compelling option for anyone who wants faster, cleaner, and more flexible coffee brewing at home or on the go.
Quick buying checklist
- Price: $79.95 USD — includes 20 oz Tritan carafe.
- Filters: Buy XL paper filters (unique size).
- Accessories: Consider a medium-fine grinder for best results.
- Care: Rinse after each use; dishwasher-safe (top rack).
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