Coffee Ratio Guide: 1:15 vs 1:16 vs 1:17
If you want the short answer, 1:16 is a very safe starting point for filter coffee. It is strong enough to taste deliberate without turning bitter if the grind is a bit off.
The catch is people chase the perfect coffee ratio when the bigger differences often come from grind size, water temperature and stale beans.
Want the grams fast?
Use the Coffee Ratio Calculator to work out coffee and water in seconds.
Use the Coffee Ratio Calculator to work out coffee and water in seconds.
What the ratios roughly feel like
| Ratio | What it usually tastes like |
|---|---|
| 1:15 | Stronger and heavier |
| 1:16 | Balanced default |
| 1:17 | Lighter and cleaner |
Example for 500mL water
At 1:16, you need about 31g of coffee for 500mL of water. That is the kind of number most home brewers actually need, not a giant explanation about extraction curves.
Bottom line
Start at 1:16 and adjust from there. Stronger? Move toward 1:15. Lighter? Move toward 1:17. Use the calculator so you stop guessing every time you brew.