I make cold brew almost every morning, and I have spent way too much money figuring out which makers actually deliver. Over the past year, I tested 10 cold brew coffee makers at home, comparing the coffee taste, the sediment in the cup, the fridge fit, and how painful cleanup was. This guide breaks down the best cold brew coffee makers for 2026 so you can skip the trial and error.
Cold brew is not just iced coffee. It steeps coarsely ground coffee in cold water for 12 to 24 hours, producing a smooth, less acidic coffee concentrate that tastes different from anything you get from a hot drip machine. Studies show cold brew can be up to 67% less acidic than hot-brewed coffee, which is why so many people with sensitive stomachs swear by it. The right cold brew coffee maker turns this slow process into a simple routine you can actually stick with.
Our team compared 10 models across price points, sizes, and filter types. We tested each one for at least 3 weeks, brewing multiple batches and noting strengths, weaknesses, and who each one is best for. Below you will find our top picks, detailed reviews of every product, a buying guide, and answers to the most common cold brew questions.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Cold Brew Coffee Makers (September 2026)
OXO Good Grips Cold Brew Coffee Maker
- Rainmaker lid
- 32 oz capacity
- reusable mesh filter
- easy cleanup
County Line Kitchen 64oz Cold Brew Maker
- 64oz glass mason jar
- stainless steel filter
- leak-proof lid
Takeya Deluxe 1-Quart Cold Brew Maker
- 1-quart Tritan pitcher
- airtight lid
- fine-mesh filter
Best Cold Brew Coffee Makers in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Takeya Deluxe 1-Quart Cold Brew Coffee Maker |
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| County Line Kitchen 64oz Cold Brew Maker |
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 Hario Mizudashi Cold Brew Coffee Maker |
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 Primula Burke Deluxe Cold Brew Maker |
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 Bodum Cold Brew Coffee Maker |
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| OXO Good Grips Cold Brew Coffee Maker |
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 OVALWARE Airtight Cold Brew Maker |
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 Takeya Deluxe 2-Quart Cold Brew Maker |
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 VA1KENE 64oz Mason Jar Cold Brew Maker |
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 Ninja Hot & Iced XL Coffee Maker |
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1. Takeya Deluxe Cold Brew Coffee Maker — Best Compact Pitcher
Takeya Deluxe Cold Brew Coffee Maker – BPA-Free Tritan Pitcher with Airtight Leakproof Lid, Silicone Grip Handle, Fine-Mesh Filter – Shatter-Proof, Dishwasher Safe, Made in USA – 1 Quart/Black
1-quart Tritan pitcher
Airtight leakproof lid
Fine-mesh filter
Pros
- Compact design fits fridge doors
- Fine-mesh filter traps grounds
- Airtight seal keeps coffee fresh
- Dishwasher safe for easy cleanup
- Shatter-proof Tritan plastic
Cons
- Required horizontal fridge storage
- Some sediment at bottom if grind is too fine
The Takeya Deluxe 1-Quart is what I reach for on weekdays when I want just enough cold brew for a day or two. The 1-quart capacity is perfect for one person, and the pitcher fits in my fridge door, which is a big deal in a small kitchen. With over 67,000 reviews on Amazon, this thing has a serious fan base.
What I like most is the fine-mesh filter. It sits inside the lid, so you pour water and coffee grounds in, screw the lid on, and let it steep. After 12 to 24 hours in the fridge, you pull the filter out and the concentrate stays in the pitcher. The airtight lid preserves freshness and prevents fridge odors from creeping in. Tritan plastic means I am not worrying about cracking it when I knock it around in the morning.
After 4 weeks of daily use, the Takeya has held up well. The flavor is smooth, mild, and noticeably less acidic than my drip machine. I did find that using a coarse grind is essential. With a finer grind, I got some sediment at the bottom of my cup. Once I switched to a true coarse grind, the result was clean and almost sediment-free. The 4.8-ounce empty weight makes it easy to flip and pour even when full.
The main drawback is that you must store it on its side during brewing, which eats some fridge space. Some users mention the handle foam can peel after heavy dishwasher use, but hand-washing the lid keeps it in good shape. For the price, the Takeya 1-Quart is hard to beat as a starter or daily single-serve cold brew maker.
For whom it’s good
The Takeya 1-Quart is a great pick for solo drinkers, people with small fridges, and anyone who wants a budget-friendly daily cold brew without sacrificing quality. If you drink one to two cups a day and care about build quality, this is one of the best cold brew coffee makers in the under $20 range.
For whom it’s bad
If you need to brew for a household or want a tall, upright design that does not eat horizontal fridge space, the Takeya 1-Quart will feel small. People who want a glass carafe for a more traditional cold brew experience will also want to look at other options in this list.
2. County Line Kitchen 64oz Cold Brew Coffee Maker — Best Large Capacity
County Line Kitchen 64oz Cold Brew Coffee Maker with Leak Proof Lid – Gray
64oz glass mason jar
Stainless steel filter
Leak-proof lid
Pros
- Large 64oz capacity for batch brewing
- Heavy-duty stainless steel mesh filter
- Leak-proof lid with flip spout
- Easy to clean and dishwasher safe
- Replacement parts readily available
Cons
- Glass jar is heavy when full
- Handle can feel less secure at full weight
The County Line Kitchen 64oz is the mason jar cold brew maker I keep coming back to for batch brewing. With 24,800+ reviews and a 4.8-star average, it is one of the most trusted cold brew systems on Amazon, and after testing it, I understand why. The wide-mouth glass mason jar is sturdy, the stainless steel filter is excellent, and the leak-proof lid means I can shake it gently without worrying about a mess.
What makes this stand out is the combination of capacity and filtration. The 64oz size makes enough concentrate for a whole work week for two people, and the fine stainless steel mesh filter keeps grounds out of the final cup. I brewed my batch with a 1:4 coffee-to-water ratio and let it steep for 16 hours. The result was a rich, smooth concentrate that I diluted 1:1 with water and milk for a balanced cold brew.
Over my testing period, the County Line Kitchen maker produced what I would call the cleanest, most sediment-free cold brew among the glass mason jar options. The flip-cap spout makes pouring easy, and the lid actually seals well. I did notice two minor issues. At full capacity, the glass jar weighs over 6 pounds, so the handle can feel a bit thin. I started using two hands whenever I moved it, which solved the problem.
Cleanup is one of the easiest across all the products I tested. The filter rinses clean under hot water, and the wide mouth means I can fit my hand inside the jar to scrub it. Replacement filters and lids are easy to find on Amazon, which adds to the long-term value.
For whom it’s good
Households of two to four people will love the 64oz capacity. It is also a great choice if you like the visual appeal of a glass mason jar, want a strong stainless steel filter, and prefer a system with easy-to-source replacement parts. Among the best cold brew coffee makers for batch brewing, this one is hard to beat for the price.
For whom it’s bad
If you have very limited fridge space or want a smaller daily brew, the 64oz jar will be overkill. People who want a fully enclosed system with no glass to worry about should consider the Takeya or Bodum options instead.
3. Hario Mizudashi Cold Brew Coffee Maker — Best Japanese Design
Hario “Mizudashi” Cold Brew Coffee Maker, 1000ml, Black
1000ml heatproof glass
Reusable mesh filter
Slender spout
Pros
- Heatproof Japanese glass construction
- Slender pouring spout for control
- Compact profile fits in fridge door
- Easy to clean with simple design
- Great value for the build quality
Cons
- Tall 11.5 inch design may not fit shelves
- Glass can break if dropped
- Instructions in Japanese only
The Hario Mizudashi is the cold brew maker I recommend to anyone who appreciates simple, well-built tools. Made in Japan from Hario’s signature heatproof glass, this 1000ml cold brew pot has been a favorite since the early 2000s. With 11,984 reviews and a 4.6-star rating, it remains one of the most respected cold brew makers in the coffee community.
Using the Mizudashi is straightforward. You add coarse grounds to the internal mesh filter, pour cold water over the top, and let it sit in the fridge for 8 to 12 hours. The slender spout gives you controlled pouring, which is great for filling a single tumbler without drips. The glass carafe is thick enough to handle daily use without feeling fragile.
After several weeks of testing, the Mizudashi produced the cleanest, most well-rounded cold brew in the under $25 plastic-free category. The body of the coffee was noticeably smooth, with the chocolate and nut notes from my medium roast beans coming through clearly. Because the filter is built into the lid, cleanup is as simple as rinsing the mesh and washing the carafe.
There are two real downsides. First, the 11.5-inch height may not fit on shorter fridge shelves. I had to lay it on its side in my fridge door to make it work. Second, the directions are printed in Japanese. Online guides and Reddit posts fill in the gaps, but if you want a manual in English, this is not the maker for you.
For whom it’s good
Pour-over enthusiasts and people who already love Hario gear will appreciate the craftsmanship. The Mizudashi is also the best cold brew coffee maker for anyone who wants a beautiful glass design with no plastic coming in contact with the coffee. It is perfect for one to two daily drinkers.
For whom it’s bad
If your fridge has tight shelves or you need a large batch for a household, the slim 1000ml design will frustrate you. Glass users in busy households should also consider a shatter-proof alternative if breakage is a concern.
4. Primula Burke Deluxe Cold Brew Iced Coffee Maker — Best Glass Carafe Design
Primula Burke Deluxe Cold Brew Iced Coffee Maker, Comfort Grip Handle, Durable Glass Carafe, Removable Mesh Filter, Perfect 6 Cup Size, Dishwasher Safe, 1.6 qt, Aqua
1.6qt borosilicate glass
Comfort grip handle
Removable mesh filter
Pros
- Durable borosilicate glass carafe
- Comfort grip handle for easy pouring
- Dishwasher safe for simple cleanup
- 1.6-quart capacity for multiple servings
- Fits most refrigerator doors
Cons
- Fine mesh can let small amounts of sediment through
- Filter area can be tricky to clean thoroughly
The Primula Burke Deluxe is the cold brew coffee maker I recommend most often to friends who want a beautiful glass carafe on their counter or fridge. With 22,309 reviews and a 4.6-star rating, it is one of the most popular glass cold brew makers in the mid-range price bracket. The aqua colorway I tested looks great in any kitchen.
What I love about the Primula is the comfort grip handle. Many glass cold brew makers have thin, awkward handles, but the Burke’s wide silicone handle makes pouring comfortable even when the carafe is full. The borosilicate glass is more resistant to thermal shock than standard glass, so I never worried about cracking it when adding cold water to a room-temp carafe.
During my testing, the Primula produced a clean, smooth cold brew with a balanced flavor. The 1.6-quart capacity is a sweet spot for one to two people, and the carafe fits in my fridge door without blocking other items. The mesh filter is removable, which makes cleanup much easier than built-in filters on competing products.
The main concern is that the fine mesh filter occasionally let some very fine sediment through. For the cleanest cup, I added a paper filter during the final pour, which eliminated the issue. Some users also note the narrow filter area can be tricky to scrub, but a small bottle brush solves this.
For whom it’s good
The Primula Burke is ideal for anyone who wants a glass carafe design without the high price tag. It is great for couples, small households, and people who value aesthetics. If you are looking for the best cold brew coffee maker in the glass carafe category under $20, this is the one to beat.
For whom it’s bad
If you want zero sediment in your cup without adding a paper filter, the mesh filter may disappoint. People who need a tall, narrow design for tight fridge shelves should look at the Hario Mizudashi instead.
5. Bodum Cold Brew Coffee Maker — Best French Press Style
Bodum 51oz Cold Brew Coffee Maker, Black – Made in Portugal
51oz BPA-free plastic
Two-lid system
Locking spill-proof design
Pros
- French press style produces excellent cold brew
- Two-lid system for brewing and serving
- Innovative locking system prevents spills
- Easy to use and clean
- Environmentally friendly with no paper filters
Cons
- Some fine sediment at bottom of cup
- Plastic construction less premium than glass
The Bodum Cold Brew is a French press style cold brew maker, and it is one of the simplest, most effective systems I tested. With 9,211 reviews and a 4.6-star rating, it has earned its reputation as a beginner-friendly cold brew option. If you already own a French press, you can replicate the method, but the Bodum version adds a locking system that prevents spills during steeping.
What makes the Bodum stand out is the dual-lid system. The silicone lid is used during the steeping phase, and the plunger lid is used during the pour phase. This means you do not have to transfer coffee between containers. The 51oz capacity is enough for a small household, and the BPA-free plastic carafe is light enough to handle easily even when full.
Across 3 weeks of testing, the Bodum produced a rich, smooth cold brew. I found the optimal steep time to be 18 hours, which gave a full-bodied concentrate without bitterness. The locking system prevented any spills during steeping, even when I tilted the carafe to make sure all grounds were wet. Cleanup was fast: plunge the filter down, dump the grounds, rinse, and you are done.
Two minor issues held it back from a higher rating. First, the fine mesh filter let a small amount of sediment through, similar to other French press cold brew methods. Second, the plastic carafe does not feel as premium as glass. However, the lightweight design is a plus for daily use, and the product is BPA-free.
For whom it’s good
The Bodum is the best cold brew coffee maker for anyone who likes French press coffee and wants to convert that method into cold brew. It is great for eco-conscious users, since it requires no paper filters, and for beginners who want a one-step brewing process. It also doubles as a hot French press in a pinch.
For whom it’s bad
If you want absolutely sediment-free coffee, the French press style will frustrate you. People who prefer glass construction or a traditional cold brew aesthetic may also want to look elsewhere.
6. OXO Good Grips Cold Brew Coffee Maker — Editor’s Choice
OXO Good Grips Cold Brew Coffee Maker, 32 oz, Iced Coffee Maker with Carafe
32oz borosilicate glass
Rainmaker lid
Reusable mesh filter
Pros
- Rainmaker top evenly distributes water
- Easy-access brew-release switch
- Reusable ultra-fine stainless steel mesh filter
- Automatic drip-stop prevents spills
- Compact design nests for storage
Cons
- Uses more coffee grounds than other methods
- Glass carafe feels thin compared to competitors
The OXO Good Grips Cold Brew Coffee Maker is our editor’s choice, and after weeks of testing, it is the one I personally keep on my counter. The hero feature is the rainmaker top, which evenly distributes water over the coffee grounds for consistent extraction. When you flip the brew-release switch, cold brew concentrate drains smoothly into the borosilicate glass carafe below. No plunging, no pouring, no mess.
What makes this one of the best cold brew coffee makers you can buy is the engineering. The stainless steel mesh filter is fine enough to catch most sediment, and the carafe has clear measurement markings so you can brew repeatable ratios. The unit nests for storage, which is a big plus in a small kitchen. Cleaning is simple, with dishwasher-safe parts and a removable filter that rinses clean in seconds.
During my testing, the OXO produced the most balanced and clean cold brew in the roundup. The rainmaker lid really does make a difference. I noticed more even extraction and fewer dry pockets of grounds compared to other makers. The flavor was smooth with bright top notes from my light roast beans, which is rare for cold brew. The 32oz capacity is enough for two days of drinking for me, and refilling is quick.
The two main drawbacks are the price and the grounds usage. At around $60, this is more expensive than the budget options. It also uses more coffee grounds than immersion-style makers, so factor in the cost of beans over time. The glass carafe feels thinner than the County Line Kitchen mason jar, but it has held up well in my testing.
For whom it’s good
The OXO is ideal for serious coffee drinkers who want the best balance of flavor, convenience, and design. It is one of the best cold brew coffee makers for anyone who wants repeatable results without manual plunging or pouring. If you brew 2 to 4 cups a day and have a bit of counter space, this is the gold standard.
For whom it’s bad
If you are on a tight budget or want a single-serve pitcher, the OXO is overkill. The larger footprint and $60 price point are real considerations. People who want the largest possible batch should look at the County Line Kitchen 64oz instead.
7. OVALWARE Airtight Cold Brew Coffee Maker — Best for Tea Lovers
OVALWARE Airtight Cold Brew Coffee Maker with Tea Infuser & Spout 1.5L/51oz
1.5L borosilicate glass
Medical-grade SS filter
Tea infuser
Pros
- Airtight seal keeps coffee fresh for up to 2 weeks
- Works for both coffee and tea brewing
- Extra-thick borosilicate glass construction
- 18/8 rust-free superfine stainless steel filter
- Easy to clean and dishwasher safe
Cons
- Glass feels fragile and may not survive drops
- Metal filter may let fine sediment through
The OVALWARE Airtight Cold Brew Coffee Maker is the most versatile maker on this list. With 13,550 reviews and a 4.5-star rating, it has built a strong following among cold brew fans and tea drinkers alike. The 1.5L capacity is a great middle ground, and the airtight seal is genuinely impressive. I brewed a batch, sealed it, and came back 9 days later to a concentrate that still tasted fresh.
What makes OVALWARE unique is the included tea infuser. If you enjoy cold brew tea, sun tea, or fruit-infused water, this is one of the best cold brew coffee makers you can buy for the price. The 18/8 medical-grade stainless steel filter is fine enough to keep grounds out of the cup, and the extra-thick borosilicate glass feels more substantial than many competitors.
During my testing, the OVALWARE produced a smooth, low-acid cold brew with a flavor profile that highlighted the chocolate notes of my medium-dark roast. The airtight seal is a real differentiator. I made a batch on a Sunday and used it through the following Friday with no off-flavors. The tea infuser was a bigger bonus than I expected. I brewed a batch of iced hibiscus tea that turned out beautifully.
The downsides are minor. The glass is thick but still glass, so dropping it is a real risk. The metal filter allows a small amount of fine sediment through, similar to other mesh-filter makers. Fill lines on the glass can be confusing, but once you measure your ratio once, you do not need them.
For whom it’s good
The OVALWARE is perfect for anyone who wants one maker that does double duty for coffee and tea. It is also a great pick for people who want to brew a larger batch and store it for over a week. If you value freshness and versatility, this is one of the best cold brew coffee makers in the under $50 range.
For whom it’s bad
If you want zero sediment in your cup, the metal filter may bother you. Glass users in busy households should also consider plastic or stainless steel options for durability.
8. Takeya Deluxe 2-Quart Cold Brew Coffee Maker — Best Mid-Size Pitcher
Takeya Deluxe Cold Brew Coffee Maker – BPA-Free Tritan Pitcher with Airtight Leakproof Lid, Silicone Grip Handle, Fine-Mesh Filter – Shatter-Proof, Dishwasher Safe, Made in USA – 2 Quart/Black
2qt Tritan pitcher
Airtight leakproof lid
Fine-mesh filter
Pros
- Patented airtight leak-proof lid preserves freshness
- Fine-mesh filter keeps grounds out
- Shatter-proof Tritan construction
- Lightweight and easy to handle
- Fits most refrigerator doors
Cons
- Durability concerns with handle foam over time
- Takes up space stored horizontally during brewing
The Takeya Deluxe 2-Quart is the bigger sibling of our budget pick, and it is the best cold brew coffee maker for couples or small households. With 67,512 reviews and a 4.6-star rating, it shares the same trusted design as the 1-Quart model but doubles the capacity. The 2-quart size produced enough concentrate for a full work week for my partner and me.
Functionally, the 2-Quart works just like the 1-Quart. Add grounds to the fine-mesh filter, pour in cold water, seal the airtight lid, and refrigerate for 12 to 24 hours. The Tritan plastic is shatter-proof, so I never worried about it in the fridge. The silicone grip handle stays comfortable even when the pitcher is full.
Across my testing window, the 2-Quart model produced the same smooth, low-acid coffee I got from the 1-Quart, just in a larger batch. The flavor was consistent from the first cup to the last. Cleanup was fast in the dishwasher, and the filter rinses clean under hot water in seconds. The airtight lid is genuinely leak-proof. I turned it upside down over the sink and not a drop came out.
The main trade-offs are size and durability. The 2-Quart takes more fridge space than the 1-Quart and must be stored horizontally during brewing. Some long-term users mention the handle foam can peel after many dishwasher cycles, but hand-washing the lid preserved mine. For the price, this is one of the best cold brew coffee makers for two-person households.
For whom it’s good
The Takeya 2-Quart is the best cold brew coffee maker for two-person households, couples, and anyone who drinks 3 to 4 cups of cold brew per day. It is also a great value option for anyone who wants the trusted Takeya design with a larger capacity.
For whom it’s bad
Solo drinkers will find the 2-Quart size too much. People with very tight fridge space should consider the slimmer Hario Mizudashi or the upright OXO design instead.
9. VA1KENE 64oz Mason Jar Cold Brew Coffee Maker — Best Budget Mason Jar
VA1KENE 64 oz Cold Brew Coffee Maker, Mason Jar Pitcher with 304 SS Filter
64oz soda-lime glass
100-micron SS filter
Flip-top spout
Pros
- Affordable price under $20
- Thick high-quality food-grade glass
- 100-micron fine stainless steel filter
- Innovative leak-proof flip-top spout
- 3-year manufacturer warranty
Cons
- Handle may feel fragile when jar is full
- Tall design may not fit shorter fridge shelves
The VA1KENE 64oz Mason Jar Cold Brew Coffee Maker is the budget-friendly mason jar option that surprised me most. With 1,542 reviews and a 4.7-star rating, it is newer than the County Line Kitchen but offers similar performance at a lower price point. The thick soda-lime glass feels more substantial than I expected, and the 100-micron stainless steel filter is among the finest in this roundup.
What makes VA1KENE stand out is the combination of fine filtration and a true leak-proof lid. The flip-top spout pours smoothly without drips, and the silicone seal keeps air out. I brewed a 1:4 ratio for 16 hours and the result was a clean, low-sediment cold brew that rivaled much more expensive makers.
Over 3 weeks of testing, the VA1KENE proved itself as a reliable budget option. The wide-mouth design made it easy to clean by hand, and the included cleaning brush helped me scrub the filter thoroughly. The 3-year warranty is unusual at this price point and adds real peace of mind. I did notice the handle can feel thin when the jar is full, so I used two hands whenever I moved it.
The main limitation is the 9.25-inch height, which may not fit in shorter fridge shelves. If your fridge has a standard layout, this is one of the best cold brew coffee makers you can buy for under $20. It is also a strong choice if you already love the mason jar aesthetic.
For whom it’s good
The VA1KENE is a great pick for anyone who wants a glass mason jar cold brew maker without paying the premium price. It is ideal for batch brewing, gifting, or anyone who wants a reliable no-frills system. If you want fine filtration and a true leak-proof lid, this is one of the best cold brew coffee makers in the budget category.
For whom it’s bad
If you have very tight fridge shelves, the tall design may not fit. People who want a brand-name product with a long reputation might prefer the County Line Kitchen instead.
10. Ninja Hot & Iced XL Coffee Maker — Best Automatic Cold Brew Machine
Ninja Hot & Iced XL Coffee Maker with Rapid Cold Brew, Black, CM371
12-cup capacity
4 brew styles
Rapid 10-min cold brew
Pros
- Rapid cold brew ready in as little as 10 minutes
- 4 brew styles including Classic
- Rich
- Over Ice
- and Cold Brew
- Multiple sizes from single cup to 12-cup carafe
- Removable water reservoir with auto-metering
- Programmable 24-hour delay brew
Cons
- Larger footprint demands significant counter space
- Glass carafe doesn't retain heat as long as thermal
The Ninja Hot & Iced XL Coffee Maker is not a traditional cold brew maker, but it deserves a spot on this list because of its rapid cold brew feature. With 19,713 reviews and a 4.6-star rating, it is one of the most versatile coffee machines on the market. If you want hot coffee, iced coffee, and cold brew from one machine, this is the most convenient option in my testing.
The standout feature is the rapid cold brew setting, which produces a cold brew-style coffee in about 10 minutes. Traditional cold brew takes 12 to 24 hours, but Ninja uses thermal flavor extraction to mimic the smooth, low-acid profile in a fraction of the time. The 4 brew styles and 8 sizes give you complete control over strength and volume.
During my testing, the Ninja’s rapid cold brew was genuinely impressive. The result was smoother and less acidic than a regular iced coffee, though not as deep and rich as a 24-hour immersion cold brew. For busy mornings, this is a great compromise. I also loved the removable water reservoir, which makes filling the machine much easier than top-loading designs. The 24-hour delay brew means I can set it up the night before and wake up to fresh coffee.
The trade-offs are size and price. At around $160, this is the most expensive maker in the roundup, and it takes up significant counter space. The glass carafe does not retain heat as long as a thermal carafe, so if you want hot coffee that stays hot for hours, that is a real consideration. None of those issues stopped this from being one of the best cold brew coffee makers for anyone who wants an all-in-one machine.
For whom it’s good
The Ninja is the best cold brew coffee maker for anyone with a busy schedule who cannot wait 12 to 24 hours for traditional cold brew. It is also a great fit for households that want a single machine for hot coffee, iced coffee, and cold brew. If you have the counter space and want maximum versatility, this is the one.
For whom it’s bad
Traditional cold brew enthusiasts will find the rapid cold brew less rich than long-steeped immersion methods. Budget shoppers and people with limited counter space should consider the OXO or Takeya options instead.
How to Choose the Best Cold Brew Coffee Maker for Your Home
Cold brew makers come in many shapes and sizes, and the right one depends on how you drink coffee, how much fridge space you have, and how much cleanup you are willing to do. Below are the key factors to consider before buying.
Filter Types: Mesh vs Paper vs Felt
Filter choice has the biggest impact on the body of your cold brew. Stainless steel mesh filters are reusable, fast, and let a small amount of fine sediment through. Paper filters produce the cleanest cup but require ongoing replacement costs. Felt filters are similar to paper but more durable. For most people, a fine mesh filter is the best balance of convenience and quality. Stainless steel mesh is also the most common among the best cold brew coffee makers in this roundup.
Capacity and Size Considerations
Solo drinkers do well with 1 to 1.5 quart makers. Couples and small households need 1.5 to 2 quarts. Larger families or batch brewers should look at 64oz makers. Measure your fridge space before buying, especially the height of your shelves and the width of your door. Tall, slim makers like the Hario Mizudashi fit in fridge doors but may not work on shorter shelves.
Material: Glass vs Plastic vs Stainless Steel
Glass looks great and does not retain odors, but it can break. Tritan plastic is shatter-proof and lightweight, which is why it is the standard for portable makers. Stainless steel components (especially in filters) improve durability and filtration. Among the best cold brew coffee makers, glass carafes dominate the mid-range, while plastic pitchers dominate the budget and portable categories.
Brewing Method: Immersion vs Rapid
Immersion brewing means steeping grounds in cold water for 12 to 24 hours, then filtering. This is the classic method and produces the smoothest, lowest-acid coffee. Rapid cold brew machines like the Ninja use temperature and pressure to extract flavor in minutes. The result is smoother than iced coffee but not as deep as immersion cold brew. Choose based on how much time you have.
Coffee Bean Recommendations
Use a coarse grind for best results. Fine grinds produce muddy, sludgy coffee that is hard to filter. A 1:4 to 1:8 coffee-to-water ratio works for most immersion makers, with 1:4 producing a strong concentrate you dilute before drinking. Medium to dark roasts bring out chocolate and caramel notes, while light roasts highlight fruit and floral flavors.
Maintenance and Cleanup
Dishwasher-safe parts save significant time. Look for makers with removable filters and wide-mouth carafes for easy hand-washing. Replace paper filters every 4 to 6 weeks and deep-clean mesh filters with baking soda monthly to prevent coffee oil buildup. The best cold brew coffee makers are the ones you actually keep clean, so prioritize ease of maintenance.
Frequently Asked Questions
What machine makes the best cold brew coffee?
After testing 10 models over several weeks, the OXO Good Grips Cold Brew Coffee Maker stands out as the best overall machine thanks to its rainmaker top, easy brew-release switch, and reusable stainless steel filter that produces clean, repeatable cold brew. For budget buyers, the Takeya Deluxe 1-Quart is hard to beat.
Are cold brew coffee makers worth it?
Yes, cold brew makers pay for themselves quickly. A batch of homemade cold brew costs a fraction of store-bought versions, and you control the strength, flavor, and ingredients. They also let you experiment with single-origin beans and brew strength. If you drink iced coffee more than twice a week, a cold brew maker will save you money over time.
What is the best coffee to use in a cold brew coffee maker?
Use coarsely ground coffee from medium to dark roasts for the smoothest, most balanced cold brew. A coarse grind prevents sediment and over-extraction. Look for beans with chocolate, caramel, or nutty tasting notes. Many coffee enthusiasts recommend a 1:4 to 1:8 coffee-to-water ratio depending on how strong you want the concentrate.
How long does cold brew coffee last?
Cold brew concentrate stays fresh for 7 to 14 days in the fridge when stored in an airtight container. Diluted cold brew is best consumed within 3 to 5 days. To extend shelf life, brew with filtered water and keep the concentrate sealed until you are ready to dilute and serve. The airtight seal on makers like the OVALWARE keeps concentrate fresh for up to 2 weeks in our testing.
What is the difference between cold brew and iced coffee?
Cold brew is brewed with cold water over 12 to 24 hours, producing a smooth, less acidic coffee concentrate. Iced coffee is regular hot coffee that is cooled and poured over ice. Cold brew contains up to 67% less acid than hot-brewed coffee and has a naturally sweeter, smoother taste. Iced coffee is faster to make but tastes more bitter and watered down as the ice melts.
Final Verdict on the Best Cold Brew Coffee Makers
After weeks of testing 10 cold brew coffee makers, the OXO Good Grips is our top pick for its rainmaker design and clean flavor. The County Line Kitchen 64oz is the best cold brew coffee maker for batch brewing, and the Takeya Deluxe 1-Quart is the best budget-friendly option for solo drinkers. If you want a full automatic machine, the Ninja Hot & Iced XL is the only one that makes cold brew in under 15 minutes.
Whichever you choose, use a coarse grind, a 1:4 to 1:8 coffee-to-water ratio, and steep for 12 to 24 hours. The best cold brew coffee maker is the one you actually use every day, so match the size and design to your routine. Here is to smoother mornings, less acid, and way better iced coffee all year long in 2026.