When the summer heat arrives or you simply need a refreshing caffeine fix, few things compare to a perfectly made glass of cold brew coffee. This method of steeping coarse coffee grounds in cold water for an extended period results in a remarkably smooth, less acidic, and naturally sweeter beverage. Unlike iced coffee, which is just hot coffee poured over ice, cold brew offers a distinct flavor profile that highlights the nuanced notes of your favorite beans.
Finding the right cold brew coffee maker for your kitchen, however, can be a challenge with so many options available. From large-capacity pitchers for families to compact systems for single servings, the ideal choice depends on your lifestyle and brewing preferences. This roundup simplifies your search by highlighting ten of the best cold brew makers, detailing their unique features and benefits to help you find your perfect match.
Our Top Cold Brew Coffee Maker Picks
- Bodum 51oz Cold Brew Coffee Maker, Black
- KitchenAid 28 oz Cold Brew Coffee Maker
- County Line Kitchen Glass Cold Brew Maker, 1 Quart
- Primula Burke Deluxe Cold Brew Iced Coffee Maker
- Takeya Tritan Cold Brew Coffee Maker, 2 Quart
- Toddy Cold Brew System
- County Line Kitchen Glass Cold Brew Maker, 2 Quart
- Cuisinart Automatic Cold Brew Coffeemaker
- Hario “Mizudashi” Cold Brew Coffee Maker, 1000ml
- Bruer Cold Brew Coffee Dripper Kit
Bodum 51oz Cold Brew Coffee Maker, Black
The Bodum Cold Brew Coffee Maker is designed for those who appreciate a classic, straightforward brewing process. Made in Portugal, it combines durable materials like stainless steel and BPA-free plastic to create a brewer that is both functional and stylish. Its 51-ounce capacity is ideal for making a large batch of concentrate to last for several days.
This system includes two specialized lids to enhance your brewing experience. A silicone lid is used during the steeping process to preserve the coffee’s taste and aroma. Once brewing is complete, you switch to the plunger lid, which functions similarly to a French press, making it easy to separate the grounds from your finished cold brew. This two-lid system offers flexibility and helps achieve a clean, sediment-free result.
KitchenAid 28 oz Cold Brew Coffee Maker
For those with limited refrigerator space or who prefer to make smaller, more frequent batches, the KitchenAid Cold Brew Coffee Maker is an excellent solution. Its compact 28-ounce design has a small footprint, allowing it to fit easily on any shelf. The unit is constructed with a reusable stainless steel steeper and clear markings to take the guesswork out of measuring your coffee and water.
The streamlined design is not only space-efficient but also simple to use and clean. You can brew your preferred beverage strength by adjusting the steeping time, and the included components are designed for easy assembly and disassembly. This maker is a great choice for singles, couples, or anyone wanting to try cold brew without committing to a large volume.
County Line Kitchen Glass Cold Brew Maker, 1 Quart
The County Line Kitchen Cold Brew Maker in the 1-quart size offers a simple and effective way to create smooth cold brew at home. Its heavy-duty glass construction is both durable and aesthetically pleasing, allowing you to see the brewing process. The package includes a high-quality mesh stainless steel filter that effectively prevents grounds from ending up in your final drink.
This pitcher is designed with user convenience in mind. It features a flip-cap pour spout for controlled, drip-free pouring and a leak-proof lid that makes it safe for storage and transport. All components are dishwasher-safe, making cleanup a quick and easy task. Its versatility also makes it suitable for brewing sun tea or storing other beverages.
Primula Burke Deluxe Cold Brew Iced Coffee Maker
The Primula Burke Deluxe system is a popular choice for its balance of capacity and value. With a 1.6-quart (6-cup) size, it’s perfect for households that enjoy a steady supply of cold brew. The durable glass carafe is paired with a comfortable grip handle and a fine mesh filter that is removable for easy filling and cleaning.
This coffee maker utilizes a straightforward immersion brewing process that yields a rich and full-bodied concentrate. The design is accessible for both beginners and experienced coffee enthusiasts, offering a cost-effective way to enjoy craft-quality cold brew at home. Its dishwasher-safe construction adds to the overall convenience, simplifying your daily routine.
Takeya Tritan Cold Brew Coffee Maker, 2 Quart
Built for durability and everyday use, the Takeya Cold Brew Maker is constructed from BPA-free Tritan plastic, which is resistant to odors and stains. The 2-quart capacity is ideal for families or anyone who likes to prepare a large batch at the start of the week. Its airtight lid with a silicone seal ensures your coffee stays fresh.
This maker is designed with a integrated mesh filter that screws securely into the lid. To brew, you simply add coffee to the filter, fill the pitcher with water, and let it steep. The ergonomic silicone handle provides a secure grip, and the entire unit is dishwasher-safe for effortless cleanup. It’s a practical and robust option for busy households.
Toddy Cold Brew System
The Toddy Cold Brew System is often considered the original and a gold standard in the cold brew world. Used by many coffee shops and serious home brewers, it is engineered to produce an exceptionally smooth and low-acidity coffee concentrate. The system includes a brewing container, a glass decanter for storage, and a reusable felt filter.
This model is designed for a dedicated cold brew enthusiast who values the quality of the concentrate above all else. The felt filter is known for producing an incredibly clean and sediment-free result. The concentrate can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks, allowing you to quickly prepare a single serving by simply diluting it with water or milk.
County Line Kitchen Glass Cold Brew Maker, 2 Quart
This is the larger 2-quart version of the County Line Kitchen Cold Brew Maker, perfect for those who need a bigger batch. It shares all the same well-thought-out features as its smaller sibling, including the heavy-duty glass construction, leak-proof lid with a flip-cap spout, and a fine mesh stainless steel filter.
The increased capacity makes it an excellent choice for entertaining guests or for households with multiple cold brew drinkers. The easy-pour dispenser and secure lid make serving and storing straightforward. Like the 1-quart model, all parts are dishwasher-safe, ensuring that cleaning up after brewing a large batch is no trouble at all.
Cuisinart Automatic Cold Brew Coffeemaker
For those who prefer a more high-tech and faster solution, the Cuisinart Automatic Cold Brew Coffeemaker is a standout option. Unlike traditional methods that require 12-24 hours of steeping, this machine can produce ready-to-drink cold brew in as little as 25 to 45 minutes. It features a clear brewing chamber and a strength selector for mild, medium, or bold coffee.
This coffeemaker automates the entire process, including the water circulation and brewing time. The removable water tank and coffee filter basket make filling and cleaning simple. If you love the taste of cold brew but don’t love the long wait, this automated system provides a significant convenience without sacrificing quality.
Hario “Mizudashi” Cold Brew Coffee Maker, 1000ml
Hario is a trusted name in coffee gear, and the Mizudashi Cold Brew Maker lives up to that reputation. Its slender, elegant design is both functional and space-saving. The 1000ml capacity brews about four to five cups of coffee, making it a good fit for smaller households or individual users.
A key benefit of this maker is its integrated, reusable coffee filter. There is no need to buy replacement paper filters, which makes it economical and environmentally friendly. The slender spout is designed for controlled, steady pouring to prevent spills. It’s a simple, no-fuss device that focuses on delivering a great-tasting result with minimal effort.
Bruer Cold Brew Coffee Dripper Kit
The Bruer Cold Brew Dripper Kit offers a unique approach to cold brew, utilizing a slow-drip method rather than full immersion. This technique is known for producing a bright and complex flavor profile that is different from the typically heavier immersion-style cold brew. It gives you precise control over the brew time and drip rate.
This system is ideal for the coffee hobbyist who enjoys experimenting and fine-tuning their brew. The kit includes the glass dripper, a stand, and all necessary components to start your slow-drip cold brew journey. While it requires more attention than a set-and-forget immersion brewer, the resulting coffee offers a distinct and nuanced taste experience.
Buying Guide: How to Choose Your Cold Brew Coffee Maker
Choosing the right cold brew coffee maker can feel a bit overwhelming with all the options out there. I’ve tested a bunch, and the best one for you really depends on your lifestyle, kitchen space, and how much coffee you like to make at once. Let’s break down the key things I look for when picking one out.
First, consider the brewing capacity. Are you making coffee just for yourself, or for a whole family or office? A large mason jar-style system might be perfect for a single person, while a multi-cup tower or a hefty dispenser is better for a crowd. Remember, cold brew concentrate is often diluted, so a 32-ounce maker might only yield about four to six servings of ready-to-drink coffee.
Next, think about the filtration system. This is crucial for getting a smooth, grit-free cup. The most common type is a fine mesh or nylon filter that sits inside a jar. These are great, but some can let through very fine sediment. For the clearest brew, look for models with a ultra-fine stainless steel mesh or even a paper filter option. Some makers, like the OXO Compact, have a rainmaker shower head to saturate the grounds evenly, which I find leads to a more consistent extraction.
The material and durability of the brewer is another big factor. Glass carafes are classic and look great, but they can be fragile. If you have kids or are clumsy in the morning (like me), a sturdy BPA-free plastic or Tritan model might be a safer bet. Stainless steel is a fantastic option because it’s durable, opaque (which protects the coffee from light), and often insulated to keep your brew cold longer.
Finally, don’t forget about ease of cleaning. This is a step that can make or break your cold brew habit. Brewers with many small parts or intricate filters can be a pain to wash. I always lean towards models that are dishwasher safe or have simple, wide-mouth designs that are easy to scrub by hand. A brewer that’s difficult to clean will probably end up sitting in the back of your cabinet.
My personal advice is to start simple. You don’t need a fancy, expensive machine to make excellent cold brew. A basic jar system with a good filter can produce a better-tasting cup than most coffee shops. Think about your counter space, how much time you want to spend on the process, and what kind of coffee experience you’re after. Finding the right one from a list of the 10 best cold brew coffee makers for iced coffee is all about matching a tool to your personal routine.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between cold brew and iced coffee?
This is the most common question I get. Iced coffee is typically just hot-brewed coffee that has been cooled down and poured over ice. Cold brew, on the other hand, is never heated. It’s made by steeping coarsely ground coffee in cold water for a long time—usually 12 to 24 hours. This slow extraction process results in a much smoother, less acidic, and naturally sweeter flavor profile compared to iced coffee, which can sometimes taste bitter or watered down.
How long does homemade cold brew concentrate last?
When stored correctly in a sealed container in the refrigerator, your homemade cold brew concentrate will stay fresh and tasty for up to two weeks. I always use an airtight bottle or the original brewing container if it has a good lid. After about two weeks, the flavor will start to degrade and it might taste a bit stale. It’s a great make-ahead drink for your busy weeks!
What is the best coffee grind for cold brew?
You want to use a coarse grind, similar to what you’d use for a French press. A fine grind, like for espresso, will over-extract and make your cold brew taste muddy and bitter. It can also clog your filter and make a huge mess. If you don’t have a grinder at home, most local coffee shops will be happy to grind the beans for you if you just tell them it’s for a cold brew system.
Do I need a special machine, or can I use something I already have?
You absolutely do not need a special machine! Before I bought my first dedicated maker, I used a large mason jar and a fine-mesh sieve lined with a cheesecloth or a paper coffee filter. It works perfectly well. The main advantage of using one of the dedicated 10 best cold brew coffee makers for iced coffee is convenience—they often have built-in filters and spouts that make the brewing and decanting process cleaner and easier.
What is the ideal coffee-to-water ratio?
This can vary based on your taste, but a great starting point is a 1:4 ratio for concentrate (e.g., 1 cup of coffee to 4 cups of water) or a 1:8 ratio for a ready-to-drink brew. I usually make a concentrate because it’s more versatile. I can then dilute it with water, milk, or my favorite alt-milk to get the strength just right. Don’t be afraid to experiment to find your perfect strength.