Coffee Ratio Calculator

Choose your brew method and how much water (or coffee) you're using to get the other amount.

How this works

Coffee-to-water ratio is expressed as grams of coffee to grams (or milliliters) of water. The SCA's 'Golden Ratio' suggests roughly 1 gram of coffee per 15–18 grams of water for most brewing, with stronger, more concentrated methods like espresso and cold brew concentrate using far less water per gram of coffee.

Source: Ratios are based on the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) Golden Ratio guidance (roughly 1:15–1:18) with method-specific adjustments.

Frequently asked questions

What is the 'Golden Ratio' for coffee?

The Specialty Coffee Association's Golden Ratio suggests roughly 1 gram of coffee for every 15 to 18 grams of water as a starting point for a balanced brew, with room to adjust to taste.

Why does cold brew use so much less water per gram of coffee?

Cold brew is typically made as a concentrate meant to be diluted with water or milk before drinking, so it's brewed much stronger (around 1:8) than a ready-to-drink hot coffee.

Can I use this ratio for a coffee scoop instead of a scale?

You can approximate with a standard coffee scoop (about 2 tablespoons, roughly 10–12 grams), but bean density varies by roast and grind, so a gram scale gives a more consistent result.

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