Immersion vs percolation

Two fundamental brewing categories. Immersion means the grounds sit in water for the full brew time (French press, Clever, AeroPress). Percolation means water flows through the grounds in one direction in a single pass (V60, Chemex, espresso, batch brew).

Why it matters — Each method behaves differently. Immersion is forgiving — grind size and pour technique matter less because every particle gets the same contact time. Percolation gives more control over the shape of the extraction (you can change pour rate, bloom, agitation) but requires better technique.

Good to know

• Beginners usually get better results from immersion methods (Clever, AeroPress, French press) while they're learning to read extraction.
• Some brewers blur the line — the Aero Press is mostly immersion but ends with a percolation press.