Head-to-head · Best Pour-over Coffee Makers

Hario V-60 Coffee Dripper (Size 02) vs Kalita Wave 185 Dripper

Which is the better buy? Side-by-side on rating, price, strengths, and watch-outs — with the published ratings we averaged to get there.

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The short answer

Hario V-60 Coffee Dripper (Size 02) comes out ahead by a clear margin (4.8 vs 4.3). Hario V-60 Coffee Dripper (Size 02) is best for: brewers who prioritize maximum flavor clarity and are willing to master manual pour techniques. Read the strengths below before deciding.

Higher ratedRanked #1 in Best Pour-over Coffee Makers

Hario V-60 Coffee Dripper (Size 02)

4.8

2 sources$26.39as of Oct 15

Flypresso found that the Hario V-60's 60-degree cone and spiral ribs create a clean, bright cup by preventing filter sealing and allowing dynamic extraction control. However, this open-bottom design demands precise water flow via a gooseneck kettle, as Home-barista.com users note that standard spouts lead to channeling and inconsistent results. The plastic version loses heat rapidly without pre-heating, making ceramic models preferable for thermal stability during brewing. This dripper suits enthusiasts willing to master pour technique for exceptional clarity but may frustrate beginners seeking a forgiving setup.

Strengths

— Produces a clean, bright cup of coffee with exceptional clarity and aroma intensity
— Offers dynamic control over extraction through the 60-degree cone angle and spiral ribs
— Available in multiple materials including plastic, ceramic, glass, and metal to suit different budgets and aesthetics

Watch-outs

— Requires a gooseneck kettle for precise water flow control
— Sensitive to pour technique with a steep learning curve for consistent results
— Plastic version loses heat quickly during brewing

$26.39 · Check Price on Amazon Full review →

Ranked #3 in Best Pour-over Coffee Makers

Kalita Wave 185 Dripper

4.3

2 sources$38.9as of Oct 15

The Kalita Wave Dripper’s flat-bottom design and three small drainage holes create an even coffee bed that restricts water flow, allowing beginners to achieve smooth, clear-bodied extraction without advanced technique. Homegrounds found this geometry prevents channeling common in conical brewers, while Cornercoffeestore noted it minimizes bitter notes by separating the filter from the dripper walls. However, Coffeechronicler identified that the classic stainless steel model drains significantly slower than glass or ceramic versions, often leading to clogging and unpredictable brew times due to its restrictive design. Users requiring standard filters should look elsewhere, as the device demands proprietary Kalita Wave paper inserts for proper function.

Strengths

— Flat-bottom design ensures even extraction and a consistent coffee bed.
— Three small holes restrict water flow, making it forgiving for beginners compared to single-hole drippers.
— Produces smooth, clear-bodied coffee with complex flavors and minimal bitterness.

Watch-outs

— Requires proprietary Kalita Wave paper filters which are not standard.
— The classic stainless steel model drains very slowly and is prone to clogging due to small drain holes and Y-shaped ribs.
— Small handle can be uncomfortable for users with larger hands.

$38.9 · Check Price on Amazon Full review →

How they stack up

Kalita Wave 185 Dripper

The Kalita Wave Dripper’s flat-bottom design and three small drainage holes create an even coffee bed that restricts water flow, making it more forgiving for beginners than the single-hole Hario V-60. However, its classic stainless steel model drains significantly slower than glass or ceramic versions of itself.

Specs side-by-side

Spec	Hario V-60 Coffee Dripper (Size 02)	Kalita Wave 185 Dripper
Capacity	1-4 cups	155 (Single), 185 (2-4 Cups)
Filter Type	Hario V60 paper filter	Proprietary Kalita Wave Paper Filters
Material	Porcelain	Glass, Ceramic, Stainless Steel, Copper
Dimensions	W140 x D120 x H102mm	4.375 x 4.25 x 3.5 inches
Filter Compatibility	V60 Cone	Kalita Wave 185
Weight	200g	—
Brewing Method	Pour-over	Pour-over

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