How it works
Coffee strength is mostly set by the ratio of water to grounds by weight. The Specialty Coffee Association’s “golden cup” guideline works out to about 1:18, while many home brewers prefer 1:15 to 1:17 for a fuller cup.
Because 1 ml of water weighs 1 g, you can measure water by volume or weight. Ground coffee varies in density, so a scale is far more consistent than scoops.
Ground coffee holds onto roughly twice its weight in water, so you get a little less brewed coffee than the water you pour in.
Formula
Coffee (g) = water (g) ÷ ratio; water (g) = coffee (g) × ratio
Questions people ask
What is the best coffee to water ratio?
Start at 1:16 for drip or pour-over and adjust. Use less water (1:15) for stronger coffee and more (1:17 or 1:18) for lighter.
How many grams of coffee per cup?
For a 12 oz (355 ml) mug at 1:16, about 22 g, or roughly 4 level tablespoons.
What ratio for French press?
Many people use 1:12 to 1:15 with a coarse grind and a 4-minute steep.