Coffee Ratio Formula

The coffee-to-water ratio sets how strong your brew is. Once you pick a ratio, this formula tells you how much water to use for any dose of coffee.

Water (g) = Coffee (g) × Ratio

What the terms mean

Symbol Meaning
Water Water to use, in grams
Coffee Dry coffee dose, in grams
Ratio Parts water per part coffee

Worked example

A 30 g dose at a 1:16 ratio needs 30 × 16 = 480 g of water, which is about 480 ml.

The golden range. Most drip and pour over coffee lands between 1:15 and 1:17. Go stronger (1:14) or weaker (1:18) to taste.

See the Coffee Ratio Calculator and the Coffee-to-Water Ratio Chart.

Scroll to Top

The calculators and tools on Formula Factory are provided for general guidance and informational purposes only. Results are estimates based on standard formulas and the values you enter — they do not constitute professional engineering, electrical, or architectural advice. Always verify calculations with a qualified professional before making decisions for any safety-critical, code-compliance, or commercial application. Formula Factory makes no representations or warranties as to the accuracy or completeness of any result, and accepts no liability for errors, omissions, or any outcomes arising from reliance on this information.