The Best Cold Brew Coffee Makers: A Practical Guide for Coffee Lovers
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The short version
For the best cold brew coffee, consider the simplicity of the Takeya Cold Brew Maker, the premium quality of the OXO Cold Brew Coffee Maker, or the affordability of the Hario Mizudashi. Each offers distinct advantages, making sipping delicious cold brew easy and enjoyable.
The Best Cold Brew Coffee Makers: A Practical Guide for Coffee Lovers
If you’re a coffee lover, you know that the way you brew your coffee can dramatically affect its taste. Cold brew coffee, celebrated for its smoothness, low acidity, and rich flavors, provides an excellent alternative to traditional hot brewing methods. In this guide, I’ll walk you through some of the best cold brew coffee makers on the market and what to look for when choosing the right one for you.
What to Look For in a Cold Brew Coffee Maker
- Type of Brew: Consider if you want immersion (where coffee grounds sit in water) or drip (which involves a slow drip of water over coffee grounds).
- Capacity: Think about how much cold brew you consume or plan to make at once. Options can range from single servings to larger batches.
- Materials: Look for durable materials like stainless steel or BPA-free plastic. Glass options are also available, but they might be more fragile.
- Ease of Cleaning: The more straightforward a maker is to clean, the more often you will use it.
- Price: Set a budget but remember that often, investing a little more can result in a better brewing experience and longevity.
Top Recommendations
Here are some carefully curated options that cater to various preferences:
1. Takeya Cold Brew Maker
Why: This popular yet simple option makes brewing cold coffee easy and mess-free.
- Search Query: "Takeya Cold Brew Maker"
- Highlights:
- Affordable and budget-friendly
- 1-quart capacity, ideal for home use
- BPA-free, durable design
- Badge: Best value
The Takeya Cold Brew Maker features a fine mesh filter that ensures no grounds escape into your brew, giving you a smooth drink every time. Its easy-to-use design lets you steep your coffee for 12-24 hours in the fridge, making it perfect for those who love convenience without compromise.
2. OXO Cold Brew Coffee Maker
Why: If you prefer a more crafted brewing experience, the OXO Coffee Maker combines style and functionality, producing a delicious cold brew with minimal effort.
- Search Query: "OXO Cold Brew Coffee Maker"
- Highlights:
- Versatile 12-cup capacity
- Integrated brewing timer for consistency
- Sleek glass carafe for serving
- Badge: Editor's pick
The OXO Cold Brew Maker utilizes a drip system that allows you to control the brew time, resulting in a balanced and flavorful coffee. Its built-in timer is a fantastic feature for those who want precision, and the stylish design makes it a standout piece for any kitchen.
3. Hario Mizudashi Cold Brew Pot
Why: A favorite among purists, the Hario Mizudashi is a no-frills option that brings out the best in your beans without any unnecessary complexities.
- Search Query: "Hario Mizudashi Cold Brew Pot"
- Highlights:
- Simple design, easy to use
- 1-liter capacity, ideal for personal use
- Can brew without any additional equipment
- Badge: Best budget
With its elegant simplicity, the Hario Mizudashi allows you to steep coffee grounds directly in a pot of water. Just add the desired amount of coffee and cold water, steep, and enjoy—a process that truly highlights the quality of your coffee beans.
Short Comparison
| Maker | Type | Capacity | Price Range | Unique Feature |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Takeya Cold Brew Maker | Immersion | 1 quart | Budget | Easy to clean, portable |
| OXO Cold Brew Coffee Maker | Drip | 12 cups | Mid-range | Integrated brewing timer |
| Hario Mizudashi Cold Brew Pot | Immersion | 1 liter | Budget | Simple and effective |
Conclusion
Cold brew coffee makers come in various styles, capacities, and price points. The right one for you depends on your brewing preferences and how much coffee you want to make at once. Among our top picks, you’ll find options that cater to all sorts of coffee enthusiasts—from those who crave a quick, easy cup to those who revel in the art of brewing. Whichever you choose, you’re on your way to enjoying the rich, smooth flavors of homemade cold brew. Happy brewing!
Our picks
Takeya Cold Brew Maker
Affordable and easy to use, perfect for home brewing.
- ·1 quart capacity
- ·BPA-free
- ·Durable design
OXO Cold Brew Coffee Maker
Offers a stylish design with precise brewing capabilities.
- ·Versatile 12-cup capacity
- ·Integrated brewing timer
- ·Sleek glass carafe
Hario Mizudashi Cold Brew Pot
A simple and effective option for cold brew enthusiasts.
- ·1 liter capacity
- ·Simple design
- ·No additional equipment needed
Frequently asked
What is cold brew coffee?
Cold brew coffee is made by steeping coarsely grounded coffee in cold water for an extended period, resulting in a smooth, less acidic coffee concentrate.
How long does cold brew coffee last?
When stored properly in the fridge, cold brew coffee can last for about 1-2 weeks. However, it’s best to consume it within the first week for optimal flavor.
Can I use regular coffee grounds for cold brew?
Yes, you can use regular coffee grounds, but coarsely ground coffee is preferable as it maintains a smoother flavor and reduces sediment.
Do cold brew makers require special filters?
Most cold brew makers come with their own filters, but you can also use a coffee filter or a fine mesh sieve if you're using a different vessel.
Written by
The BrewKit Team
Coffee gear researchers
We research and compare coffee brewing equipment so you don't have to — combining hands-on experience, manufacturer specs, and the wider community's findings to recommend gear that earns its place on the counter.