5 Fantastic Benefits of Using a Vietnamese Phin Filter

Vietnamese phin filter with coffee

If you’re an avid coffee drinker, you probably relish the feeling of brewing your first cup of coffee (as well as your second and third cup, don’t worry we don’t judge). It’s a ritual of sorts; a moment of self-care in an otherwise chaotic world. 


While you probably have a brewing method of choice, let us introduce you to the phin, a traditional Vietnamese coffee filter that will become your favorite coffee brewing tool. Here are five fantastic benefits of using a phin, and why you'll love this piece of tradition.

What is a Vietnamese Phin Filter?


The phin is a coffee brewing tool commonly used in Southeast Asia, especially in Vietnam. The filter is usually made of metal or ceramic and works as a cross between a pour-over coffee and a drip coffee maker.  

The phin consists of four main parts: 


  • The Filter Plate/Saucer: this is a perforated plate that sits right on top of your cup.
  • The Brewing Chamber: where the magic happens! Ground coffee is put inside the chamber and then placed on top of the filter plate.
  • The Gravity Press: this is a perforated insert that gently presses down on the coffee to create a strong and slow brew. 
  • The Cap: once hot water has been poured over the brewing chamber, the phin cap is put in to seal the heat.   

How Does a Phin Filter Work?


The phin is largely the reason why Vietnamese coffee is so strong, well that and potent robusta coffee beans of course! Using a phin produces a concentrated brew as gravity is the sole force used to brew the coffee. Once all the parts of the filter are set up, water is poured over the coffee grounds and the gravity press. This hot water naturally tamps down the press, which allows the coffee to slowly brew and drip through.

Benefits of Using a Phin Filter


So, apart from making a strong and delish cup of coffee, why should you start using a phin? (Although do you really need another reason?) Here are five reasons we think you’re going to become a phin fiend.  

1. Flavor: 


This filter produces a rich, smooth, and strong coffee with a delicious, bold flavor. The metal filter allows for a slow, controlled extraction of coffee oils and flavors, resulting in a cup of coffee that is both full-bodied and aromatic.

2. Convenience: 


The phin is easy to use and clean, making it a convenient option for coffee lovers on the go. The compact size and lightweight design make it easy to carry with you, whether you’re traveling or just heading to work.

3. Affordable: 


The Vietnamese phin coffee filter is an affordable alternative to other coffee brewing methods, such as espresso machines and pour-over setups. The simple design means that there are no expensive parts to replace, making it a cost-effective option for coffee lovers on a budget.

Phin vietnamese coffee filter
Picture courtesy of Pexels​​

4. Sustainable:


Since they’re generally made of metal, the phin is reusable, making it an environmentally friendly option for coffee brewing. You can use the same filter for years, reducing the amount of waste generated by single-use coffee filters.

5. Cultural Experience: 


Using a Vietnamese phin filter is not just a way to make coffee, but also a way to experience traditional Vietnamese coffee culture.

In conclusion, the Vietnamese phin filter is a simple, affordable, and convenient coffee brewing tool that offers a rich and flavorful cup of coffee. Whether you’re looking for a cost-effective option or simply want to experience a traditional Vietnamese coffee, the phin is perfect.


If you’re still not convinced that you should start using a phin, just try SANG ready-to-drink Vietnamese iced coffee, one sip of our authentic Vietnamese coffee and you’ll get this filter faster than you can say… phin