French press vs simple filter, is French press equipment really necessary? French press coffee is basically when you pour almost boiling water onto ground beans and then filter them (by pressing the filter handle).

So I wonder why use that contraption at all?
Simply pour the hot water over the beans and then pour them in a glass over a filter.

Is there something I am missing that makes that contraption necessary?
The simple answer is, no. You don't really need the exact French-press equipment to prepare a drinkable cup of French-press coffee.

However, the equipment is very likely to ease your preparation. Otherwise, you should take care about


timing
amount of water (and maybe setting the coffee/water ratio)
filter-size
act of filtering quickly and properly


all by yourself to have a decent cup. If you aren't experimenting or looking for adventure I advise you to pay 5 bucks for the equipment.