AeroPress XL vs Original AeroPress: Which Size Is Right for You?

When AeroPress released the XL in 2023, coffee lovers finally got an answer to their most common request: more capacity. The original AeroPress has been a beloved single-cup brewer since 2005, but its small size meant brewing multiple cups was tedious. The XL doubles the brewing capacity while maintaining everything that made the original great.

But bigger isn’t always better. Let’s break down how these two versions compare and help you decide which one fits your coffee routine.

The Basics: What’s Different?

Capacity

The most obvious difference is size. The original AeroPress brews up to about 10 ounces of coffee—perfect for one cup or a concentrated shot with water added. The XL brews up to 20 ounces, enough for two regular cups or one large travel mug.

Physical Dimensions

The XL is about 30% taller and wider than the original. It’s still compact enough for kitchen storage but noticeably bigger when you’re holding it. The weight difference is minimal since both are made from lightweight BPA-free plastic.

Filter Size

Each version requires its own filter size—they’re not interchangeable. XL filters are larger to match the wider brewing chamber. Keep this in mind when stocking up on supplies.

Price

The XL typically costs $20-30 more than the original. Given that it’s essentially two AeroPresses worth of capacity, the price premium is reasonable for those who need the extra volume.

Who Should Choose the Original AeroPress?

The original remains the better choice for many coffee drinkers:

• Solo coffee drinkers: If you’re brewing for yourself, the original’s 10-ounce capacity is plenty. Why deal with a bigger device when you don’t need the extra volume?
• Travelers: The original packs smaller and lighter, fitting easily into backpacks, suitcases, and carry-ons. For camping, traveling, or office use, compactness matters.
• Budget-conscious buyers: At around $35-40, the original costs less and does everything most people need.
• Minimalists: If you prefer smaller kitchen tools and have limited counter or cabinet space, the original takes up less room.
• AeroPress Go owners: If you already have the travel-focused Go version, the original offers similar capacity with a different form factor.

Who Should Choose the AeroPress XL?

The XL makes sense for specific situations:

• Couples and small households: If you regularly brew coffee for two people, the XL eliminates the need for back-to-back brewing sessions.
• Large mug drinkers: Those oversized 16-20 ounce mugs finally have a brewer to match. No more making two batches to fill your favorite mug.
• Office sharing: If multiple coworkers want AeroPress coffee, the XL speeds up the process considerably.
• Cold brew enthusiasts: The larger chamber makes it easier to brew cold brew concentrate in meaningful quantities.
• Those who entertain: Making coffee for guests is faster when you can brew two cups at once.

Brewing Performance: Does Size Affect Quality?

Both versions use the same brewing principle and produce identical quality coffee when using proper ratios. The XL isn’t better or worse—it just makes more.

Some things to consider:

Pressing Effort

The XL requires slightly more pressing force because you’re pushing more water through a larger filter area. It’s not dramatically harder, but you’ll notice the difference. People with hand or wrist issues might find the original easier to use.

Recipe Scaling

You’ll need to scale up your favorite recipes for the XL. If you use 15 grams of coffee for the original, you might use 25-30 grams for a full XL brew. The good news is that ratios remain consistent—just multiply everything proportionally.

Single-Cup Brewing

You can brew small amounts in the XL, but it feels inefficient. The large chamber makes it awkward to brew just one small cup. If you frequently brew single servings, the original is more practical.

The Portability Factor

This is where the original clearly wins. The XL is portable in the sense that it doesn’t need electricity, but it’s not travel-friendly like the original or AeroPress Go.

For home use where size doesn’t matter, this is irrelevant. For camping, backpacking, or frequent travel, stick with the original.

Making the Decision: A Simple Framework

Ask yourself these questions:

1. How many people will drink coffee from this brewer? One person = Original. Two or more regularly = XL.
2. What size are your typical coffee drinks? Standard 8-10 oz mugs = Original. Large 16-20 oz mugs = XL.
3. Will you travel with it? Frequent travel = Original or Go. Home use only = Either works.
4. Do you already own an AeroPress? If so, adding the other size gives you flexibility for different situations.
5. What’s your budget? Tight budget = Original. Extra $20-30 doesn’t matter = Choose based on capacity needs.

The Verdict

The original AeroPress remains the best choice for solo coffee drinkers, travelers, and anyone who values compactness. It’s been perfected over nearly two decades and does exactly what it’s designed to do: make one excellent cup of coffee quickly and easily.

The XL is a welcome addition for households with multiple coffee drinkers or anyone tired of brewing twice to fill a large mug. It’s not a replacement for the original—it’s a complement for different needs.

Many serious AeroPress fans end up owning both: the original for travel and single cups, the XL for home brewing when more volume is needed. At their price points, having both isn’t unreasonable if you brew coffee daily.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use original AeroPress filters in the XL?

No, the filters are different sizes and not interchangeable. The XL requires its own larger filters. Make sure you’re buying the correct size when restocking.

Does the XL make stronger coffee?

Not inherently. Coffee strength depends on your coffee-to-water ratio, not the brewer size. Both versions can make concentrated or diluted coffee depending on your recipe.

Is the XL harder to press?

Slightly. The larger surface area means a bit more resistance, but it’s not dramatically harder. Most adults won’t have issues, though those with limited hand strength might prefer the original.

Can I make single cups in the XL?

Yes, but it’s awkward. The XL works best at higher volumes. If you frequently brew single small cups, the original is more practical.

Which is better for cold brew?

The XL, due to its larger capacity. You can steep more coffee for cold brew concentrate in a single batch. The original works for cold brew but produces smaller quantities.

Should I buy both versions?

If you have different brewing situations—home versus travel, solo versus hosting—owning both makes sense. The combined cost is still less than most single coffee makers.

What accessories come with each version?

Both come with a filter cap, plunger, chamber, stirrer, scoop, and a pack of paper filters. The XL includes XL-specific filters. Neither includes a mug or carrying case (the Go version has those).

Does the XL fit in standard mugs?

The XL has a wider base than the original, so some narrow mugs won’t work. Check that your preferred mug has an opening wide enough to accommodate the XL chamber. Most standard mugs and travel tumblers work fine.