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Which Cafec Paper Filter is Right for Me?
• Kate Lai

Which Cafec Paper Filter is Right for Me?

When it comes to brewing the perfect cup of coffee, every detail matters. One of the often-overlooked components is the paper filter, which plays a crucial role in determining the taste, texture, and clarity of your brew. Today, we're diving into a detailed comparison of Cafec's paper filters, exploring how their different features impact your coffee experience.

To help you decide which Cafec paper filter suits your brewing style, we’ve created a comparison table that outlines key features like thickness, density, flow rate, and the resulting taste profile.

Paper Filter

Abaca

 Abaca+ Abaca+ Deep27

Light Roast
(TH-1)

Medium-Dark Roast
(TH-3)

Dark Roast
(TH-2)
Thickness (mm) 0.25 0.22 0.15 0.28 0.22
Density Low High High Low Medium
Crepe Dual-sided, even ridges Dual-sided, finer ridges, closely spaced Single-sided, ridges on outer side Dual-sided, even ridges Dual-sided, finer ridges
Surface Area Large Extra Large Small Large Medium
Flow rate
(200cc Water)		 14 sec 13 sec 9 sec 18 sec 11 sec 12 sec
Flow rate
(200cc Water
over 13g coffee)		 44 sec 32 sec 50 sec 52 sec 38 sec 49 sec
Taste Smooth & Clear Smooth & Clear Aromatic & Clean Balanced & Rich Body & Sweetness
Memo Eco Friendly FSC®Certificate - - -

Understanding the Filters

Cafec offers a range of paper filters, each designed with unique characteristics in thickness, density, crape structure, and surface area. Let's break down these features and what they mean for your cup of coffee:

  1. Thickness
    1. Ranges from 0.15mm to 0.28mm across different models.
    2. Thicker filter papers, like the Light Roast (TH-1), generally slow down the flow rate, potentially leading to a stronger cup.
    3. Thinner filters, like the Medium Dark Roast (TH-3), allow for faster extraction, resulting in a milder taste.
  2. Density
    1. The density of the filter material affects how much oil and fine particles can pass through.
    2. High-density filters, like the Abaca+ and Light Roast, produce a clearer brew with a smoother mouthfeel, ideal for those who prefer a clean cup.
    3. Low-density filters, like the Abaca and Medium Dark Roast, allow more oils through, adding to the body and richness of the coffee.
  3. Crepe Structure
    1. The crepe, or the textured pattern on the filter, helps regulate the flow of water.
    2. Filters with dual-sided even ridges, like the Abaca and Medium Dark Roast, maintain an even flow, contributing to a balanced extraction.
    3. Filters like the Light Roast (TH-1) with crepe on one side slow down the flow, enhancing the richness and aromatic qualities of the brew.
  4. Surface Area
    1. The surface area of the filter affects how quickly water passes through.
    2. Larger surface areas, like the Abaca+, generally lead to faster flow rates, perfect for those who enjoy a smoother cup.
    3. Smaller surface areas, like the  Light Roast (TH-1), slow down the flow, ideal for a more aromatic brew.

Flow Rate & Taste Profile

Cafec paper filters vary widely in their flow rates, which significantly impacts the flavour profile of the brewed coffee:

  • Fast Flow: These filters allow for quick extraction, producing a smooth and clear cup with a subtle flavour profile. Ideal for those who prefer a lighter brew.
  • Medium Flow: Filters in this range strike a balance, offering a rich and balanced flavour with moderate body and sweetness.
  • Slow Flow: These filters are perfect for those who enjoy a full-bodied cup with pronounced richness and aromatic depth.

Sustainability

Cafec also considers the environmental impact of their filters. The Abaca & Abaca+ Paper Filters are eco-friendly, and the Abaca+ Paper Filter carries an FSC® certification, ensuring that the paper is sourced from responsibly managed forests.

Which Paper Filter is Right for You?

Choosing the right paper filter depends on your personal preferences, the type of coffee you're brewing, and the moment you’re in. Here’s a quick guide to help, but remember, the beauty of pour-over coffee lies in experimenting and enjoying the different results each time.

  • For a Clean, Smooth Cup: If you love clarity in your coffee, the Abaca+ and Light Roast (TH-1) filters offer high-density paper and controlled flow rates that enhance smoothness and brightness in your brew.
  • For a Balanced and Rich Brew: Looking for balance? The Abaca and Medium-Dark Roast (TH-3) filters provide a moderate flow rate, delivering a good mix of body, sweetness, and richness in each sip.
  • For Body and Sweetness: If you enjoy a fuller-bodied coffee with lingering sweetness, the Dark Roast Paper Filter (TH-2), with its middle-density paper and slower flow rate, is perfect for bringing out those deeper, bolder flavours.

That said, it’s always fun to experiment and find the best taste for each coffee or each moment of the day. Pour-over brewing gives you the chance to explore different brew results every time.

For those looking to experience a variety of filters, the Cafec 4P Paper Filter Assortment is a great choice. This curated collection includes 40 filters each for Light Roast, Medium-Dark Roast, Dark Roast, and the innovative Abaca+ Paper Filter — four distinct varieties in one convenient package. Whether you're new to pour-over or a seasoned brewer, it’s a perfect way to explore the full range of flavour possibilities.

Conclusion

Selecting the right Cafec paper filter can transform your coffee experience. Whether you prefer a light, clear brew or a rich, full-bodied cup, there's a filter that matches your taste. By understanding the differences in thickness, density, crepe structure, and flow rate, you can choose the perfect filter to brew your ideal cup of coffee every time.