Coffee Ratio Calculator
Know two of the three — coffee, water, or ratio — and we'll solve for the third instantly. Perfect for scaling a recipe up or down without losing the balance you like.
What do you want to find?
Water
320g
Ratios describe grams of coffee to grams of water. 1 ml of water weighs about 1 g, so a 1:16 ratio means 16 g of water for every gram of coffee.
How coffee ratios work
A coffee ratio is simply the proportion of coffee to water by weight. Because 1 ml of water weighs about 1 gram, a 1:16 ratio means 16 grams (or ml) of water for every gram of ground coffee. Ratios keep your recipe consistent no matter how much you brew — double the coffee and the water follows.
Choosing a ratio for strength
Lower ratios (more coffee) produce a bolder, heavier cup, while higher ratios lean bright and delicate. Most people land between 1:15 and 1:17 for filter coffee. Adjust in small steps — a single point of ratio is a noticeable change in the cup.
Once you have your ratio, the coffee amount calculator turns it into grams and tablespoons per cup, and each method calculator pairs it with the right grind and brew time.
Common coffee ratios by method
| Method | Balanced ratio | Grind | Brew time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pour Over | 1:16 | Medium-fine | ~3:00–3:30 |
| French Press | 1:15 | Coarse | ~4:00 |
| AeroPress | 1:15 | Medium-fine | ~1:30–2:00 |
| Drip Coffee | 1:16 | Medium | ~4:00–6:00 |
| Chemex | 1:16 | Medium-coarse | ~4:00–4:30 |
| Cold Brew | 1:5 | Extra coarse | 12–18 hours |
Frequently asked questions
What does a coffee ratio like 1:16 mean?
It means one part coffee to sixteen parts water by weight — for example, 20 g of coffee to 320 g (320 ml) of water. Lower numbers make a stronger cup; higher numbers make a lighter one.
What is a good all-purpose coffee ratio?
1:16 is a reliable balanced starting point for most filter and pour over coffee. French press is often brewed around 1:15, espresso closer to 1:2, and cold brew concentrate around 1:5.
Should I measure coffee by weight or volume?
Weight is far more accurate. A tablespoon of beans varies with roast and grind, but grams are consistent. A simple kitchen scale is the single biggest upgrade to consistency.