Exploring the Hario Switch: The Ultimate Brewer for Coffee Enthusiasts

Welcome to a deep dive into the world of coffee brewing with the Hario Switch, an innovative device that merges the best of immersion brewing and the V60 pour-over methods. Whether you’re a beginner or seasoned coffee enthusiast, the Hario Switch offers a unique and versatile experience. Let's explore the standout features, brewing techniques, and potential quirks of this remarkable coffee brewer.

I have to say. This is my favorite brewer. I also don’t have a huge collection of brewers so that statement may not count for all that much. So far I own an AeroPress, and a Timemore Crystal Eye Dripper (V60 like). On my list of brewers to acquire would be a Kalita Wave or Orea V3/V4 brewer, and an Origami. There are countless other brewers on the market and you can easily own a collection. It’s the versatility that stands out for me as a must-have.

The Hario Switch: A Versatile Brewer

The Hario Switch is essentially a modified V60 dripper. This brewer combines the classic V60's percolation method with the immersion brewing style, offering users a versatile tool that caters to various brewing preferences. The immersion brewing style is enabled with a ‘switch’ that opens or closes the dripper.

1. Dual Brewing Methods: The Switch allows you to toggle between percolation and immersion brewing. This flexibility is perfect for experimenting with different flavors and extraction profiles.

2. Simple Mechanism: The Switch features a simple mechanism that lifts a steel ball to block the flow or lowers it to allow brewed coffee to pass through. This design makes switching between brewing methods seamless.

3. Material and Design: The Hario Switch is made primarily of glass, with a silicone base. This design not only looks elegant but also ensures durability and ease of cleaning.

It’s sold in two sizes. I bought the 02 however if I was to buy it again, I would definitely go for the larger model (03). I’ll likely add another at some point after I’ve bought a few other brewers.

• Amazon Affiliate Link to Hario V60-03 Switch (360ml)

• Amazon Affiliate Link to Hario V60-02 Switch (200ml)

Best Features of the Hario Switch

• Versatility: The ability to switch between immersion and percolation brewing methods provides a wide range of flavor profiles and extraction possibilities. This makes it an excellent choice for both beginners and experienced coffee brewers.

• Ease of Use: The simple mechanism of the Hario Switch, which involves lifting or lowering a steel ball to control the flow of coffee, makes it user-friendly. This ease of use is especially beneficial in busy environments or for those new to pour-over brewing.

• Design and Build Quality: The combination of glass and silicone not only makes the Hario Switch aesthetically pleasing but also durable and easy to clean. The glass construction ensures that the brewer maintains the coffee's temperature, contributing to better extraction.

• Forgiving with Grind Sizes: The Hario Switch is more forgiving with various grind sizes compared to traditional V60 brewers. This flexibility allows for experimentation without the risk of clogging or over-extraction.

Quirks and Oddities

• Preheating Recommended: Unlike plastic brewers, the glass construction of the Hario Switch could use thorough preheating to prevent heat loss during brewing. This extra step ensures optimal extraction but can be a minor inconvenience for some users.

• Potential for Clogging: While the Switch is forgiving with grind sizes, using extremely fine grinds can still lead to clogging during the draw-down period. It's important to find the right balance to avoid this issue. I’ve personally never ground it so fine that its clogged but its certainly a possibility.

• Glass Fragility: The glass material, while elegant and effective in maintaining temperature, demands careful handling. It is less travel-friendly compared to plastic brewers and requires more attention to avoid breakage.

• Price Point: The Hario Switch is more expensive than standard V60 drippers due to its versatile design and glass construction. However, its dual-functionality justifies the investment for many coffee enthusiasts.

Conclusion

The Hario Switch is an innovative coffee brewer that caters to both immersion and percolation enthusiasts. Its simple yet effective design, combined with the ability to experiment with various brewing methods, makes it a valuable addition to any coffee lover's collection. Whether you prefer a clean, crisp cup or a fuller-bodied, complex brew, the Hario Switch has you covered. Dive into the world of coffee experimentation and discover the joy of crafting your perfect cup with this exceptional brewer.

Happy brewing!