My Honest 2026 Review: Why I Switched to AeroPress for Better Coffee
At the start of 2026, I found myself doing what a lot of us do in January — reassessing the little daily habits that quietly shape how we feel. For me, coffee was an obvious place to start. It’s non-negotiable in my routine, but I’d never really thought about how I was drinking it — just that I was.
After a few weeks of switching things up, I realised something: it’s not about giving coffee up, it’s about doing it better. And that’s where the AeroPress Original has genuinely changed things for me.
Brewing Earlier — and Feeling Better for It
I used to drink coffee well into the afternoon without thinking twice. But recently, I’ve shifted to having my cups earlier in the day — usually all before midday — and the difference has been noticeable.
I feel more energised in the mornings and less wired in the evenings. My sleep has improved slightly too, which I wasn’t expecting. The beauty of the AeroPress is how quick it is — I can make a proper, smooth coffee in about a minute, even on busy mornings.
It’s also surprisingly portable. I’ve taken it on walks and even used it outdoors, which sounds a bit extra, but actually makes the whole ritual feel more intentional.
Why I Swapped My French Press
I was a die-hard French press user for years. It felt classic, simple — but also, if I’m honest, a bit inconsistent. Sometimes too bitter, sometimes gritty.
Switching to the AeroPress was a bit of a revelation. The paper filter makes a noticeable difference — the coffee is cleaner, smoother, and doesn’t have that heavy, oily finish. It just feels lighter, but still full of flavour.
It’s one of those small upgrades that you don’t realise you needed until you try it — and then you don’t really go back.
Turning Coffee Into Something More Functional
One thing I’ve been experimenting with this year is adding a bit more purpose to my coffee.
Some days I’ll blend in collagen, other days I’ve tried things like mushroom powders (Lion’s Mane is having a moment for a reason). It sounds a bit wellness-influencer, but actually, it’s just an easy way to layer in something extra without overthinking it.
Because the AeroPress gives you full control — grind size, brew time, temperature — it’s easy to tweak your cup depending on what you want from it. Strong and punchy, or smooth and mellow, it’s completely adjustable.
A Small Change That Sticks
What I didn’t expect is how much this one change would shift my routine overall. Coffee has gone from something I grab absentmindedly to something I actually enjoy properly.
It’s still quick. Still convenient. But it feels better — cleaner, more considered, and oddly more aligned with the whole “start the year right” mindset.
If you’re not ready to give up coffee (and honestly, why would you?), upgrading how you make it might be the easiest win you’ll get this year.
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Joanne Brook-Smith is a writer and editor with two decades of publishing experience. She launched Crave Magazine during the Covid period to create a fresh, inspiring space for food, travel and lifestyle content.