Does the metal filter let coffee grounds through into my cup?
Some. Filter quality varies from unit to unit, and fines and oils do pass through the mesh. That is inherent to metal filters generally, since their pores are larger than paper's, so particulate and oils pass into the cup, giving a heavier-bodied brew with some sediment at the bottom. For a cleaner cup, try a slightly coarser grind and leave the last of the fines in the bottom of the carafe when you pour, as one owner does, or line the cone with a standard #4 paper filter.
Can the glass carafe crack from hot water?
The carafe is borosilicate glass, which resists thermal shock better than ordinary soda-lime glass because it expands less per degree of temperature change, which is why it is standard in lab and ovenware. That said, Bodum describes this as a single wall carafe with no insulating air gap, so the glass heats up fast, and it does run thin. Durability varies: some owners call it very durable, and others report that theirs shattered.
How do I clean the stainless-steel mesh filter?
Bodum rates both the glass carafe and the stainless steel filter dishwasher safe, and suggests washing them in warm, soapy water before first use. The filter is permanent, so you rinse and reuse it instead of throwing it away after each brew. Owners find cleaning easier than expected: most of the time a rinse with hot water does it, and one owner mentions a small cleaning tool in the box.
Is this a real alternative to a pricier pour-over setup like a Chemex?
It's a comparison many buyers make themselves, describing wonderful coffee at a fraction of the cost of a Chemex. One owner who bought it as a stopgap while a much more expensive pour-over maker was on its way found the expensive one not comparable and sent it back. Value for money is a clear strength overall. The trade-offs are the thin glass and a metal filter that lets more sediment through than paper.
How much coffee does it actually hold?
Bodum sells this model as a 34-ounce pour-over and rates it at 8 cups of 4 ounces each. Size opinions vary, and comments also cover a smaller 17-ounce size that some find right for one person and others too small, so check which size you are ordering.
Does the carafe actually hold up, or does it break easily?
It varies. Some owners describe it as very durable, while others report it shattering. Even owners who are happy with it describe the glass as thin and delicate; one survived an early knock but advises never dropping or banging it, and another expects it to last indefinitely barring an accident. Handle it with care, and don't assume your unit will land on whichever side you'd prefer.
