Is Fellow Stag XL Worth $70? My Honest Opinion

It Smells Better Than It Taste — a quiet coffee newsletter where I share what I'm learning about coffee, curiosity, and daily rituals, this channel is an extension of that space: https://www.itsmellsbetterthanittaste.com/ Everyday Beans is about finding joy in coffee: one cup at a time. I’m an engineer turned roaster, a self-proclaimed mad scientist behind the brewer, and someone endlessly curious about coffee: and life. I share my wins, misses, and discoveries so you can explore your own journey through coffee. I wouldn't call the Fellow Stag XL a regret, but it's definitely coffee gear I don't use anymore. In this honest review, I'm breaking down why this $70 stainless steel brewer sits on my shelf while my $10 V60 gets daily use. The Stag XL is beautifully crafted with impeccable build quality, but the expensive oversized filters, potential metallic taste from stainless steel, and limited versatility compared to budget alternatives make it hard to recommend. I'll show you better options that deliver the same quality coffee at a fraction of the price, plus a cone filter trick that'll save you money and expand your brewing possibilities. Coffee doesn't need to be expensive to be exceptional. The V60 and Oxo Brewer prove that affordable gear can produce spectacular brews without the premium price tag. Whether you're early in your coffee journey or a seasoned brewer, understanding what gear truly matters versus what's just beautiful marketing will help you invest wisely in your daily coffee ritual. No FOMO here—just honest insights to help you brew better coffee and save money. What's your experience with expensive coffee gear versus budget alternatives? Have you tried the cone filter trick in your V60? Drop your thoughts in the comments and let's talk about what really matters in coffee brewing—the taste in your cup, not the price tag on your brewer. Timestamps: 0:00 - Fellow Stag XL Introduction 1:00 - What's Good About the Stag XL 2:07 - Construction and Build Quality 3:15 - Why I Don't Recommend It 5:00 - Filter Size and Cost Issues 6:27 - Brewing Demo with Stag XL 9:22 - Better Alternatives: V60 and Orea 10:23 - Cone Filter Trick That Works 11:12 - Final Thoughts and Takeaways