How this calculator works
A brew ratio such as 1:16 means 16 g of water for every 1 g of coffee. Divide water by the ratio to get the dose, or multiply the dose by the ratio to get water. One milliliter of water weighs about one gram.
Coffee (g) = Water (ml) ÷ Ratio
Water (ml) = Coffee (g) × Ratio
Worked example
Using the default values in the calculator above:
| Input | Value |
|---|---|
| I know the… | Water amount |
| Water | 500 ml (g) |
| Ratio (water per 1 g coffee) | 16 : 1 |
| Result | Value |
|---|---|
| Coffee | 31.3 g |
| Water | 500 ml |
| Approx. brewed coffee (grounds absorb ≈2× their weight) | 438 ml |
| Cups (8 fl oz) | 2.1 cups |
Step by step:
- Coffee = 500 ml ÷ 16 = 31.3 g
Coffee for common brew sizes at 1:16
| Water | Coffee |
|---|---|
| 1 mug (250 ml) | 15.6 g |
| 12 oz (355 ml) | 22.2 g |
| Pour-over (500 ml) | 31.3 g |
| French press (1 L) | 62.5 g |
| 10-cup drip (1.5 L) | 93.8 g |
Common mistakes to avoid
- Using scoops instead of grams — scoop weight changes with roast and grind.
Frequently asked questions
How much coffee for 12 oz of water?
12 fl oz is about 355 ml; at 1:16 that is about 22 g of coffee.
What ratio for French press?
Many people use about 1:12 to 1:16; start at 1:15 and adjust to taste.