The OXO Good Grips Cold Brew produces professional-grade cold coffee at room temperature, while the Ninja Hot & Iced offers a faster brewing cycle.
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1. OXO Good Grips Cold Brew Coffee Maker
Best for: Someone who wants a consistent, hands-free extraction process every time.
The borosilicate glass carafe includes measurement markings to track your concentrate. Since the brewing process stops automatically when you remove the carafe, you avoid messy spills and the risk of over-extraction. This model features a multi-piece design that requires more storage area than a simple pitcher.
Good if:
- You prefer a set-it-and-forget-it overnight process.
- You want to avoid using paper filters.
- You need clear markings to measure your concentrate.
Skip it if:
- You have very limited counter or fridge height.
- You need a device that brews in under an hour.
2. Takeya Deluxe Cold Brew Coffee Maker
Best for: Households that need a durable, leak-proof pitcher for daily use.
The Takeya Deluxe is built with shatter-proof, stain-resistant, and odor-resistant Tritan. Its airtight, leak-proof lid is a major benefit if you store your coffee on its side or transport it frequently.
Because the pitcher is compact and designed to fit in most refrigerator doors, it’s a practical choice for smaller kitchens. The fine-mesh filter does the heavy lifting to keep grounds out of your final pour. This maker isn’t for users who prefer the aesthetic of glass or who need to brew massive quantities for large groups at once.
Good if:
- You have a busy household and need a leak-proof design.
- You want a pitcher that fits in the refrigerator door.
- You prefer a lightweight, shatter-proof material.
Skip it if:
- You’re strictly looking for a glass carafe.
- You need to brew more than two quarts at a time.
3. Hario “Mizudashi” Cold Brew Coffee Maker
Best for: Someone who values a minimalist, Japanese-inspired design in their kitchen.
The Hario Mizudashi is known for its simplicity and clear glass construction. You add coffee to the mesh basket, pour in water, and let it sit in the fridge. The slender spout is crafted for a steady, controlled pour, which is helpful when you’re serving guests and want to avoid splashes.
Because it’s made with Hario’s heatproof glass, it offers a clean look that fits well in any modern kitchen. However, this is a very basic setup without the specialized valves or rainmakers found in more complex machines. It isn’t for someone who wants advanced features like an automatic release switch or a built-in dispensing tap.
Good if:
- You want a simple, easy-to-clean glass pitcher.
- You appreciate a sleek, minimalist aesthetic.
- You like having full control over your ground coarseness.
Skip it if:
- You want a machine with more automated features.
- You need a highly portable or shatter-proof design.
4. KitchenAid 38 oz Cold Brew Coffee Maker
Best for: A serious coffee drinker who wants a premium, long-term brewing solution.
The KitchenAid Cold Brew features a stainless steel tap for convenient dispensing. Its design is streamlined, combining glass and stainless steel components that look good on a counter while preserving the coffee’s taste. It’s built to hold enough concentrate for up to 19 servings, making it ideal for regular drinkers.
The stainless steel steeper includes fill indicators, which removes the guesswork from the initial preparation.
Good if:
- You want the convenience of a built-in dispensing tap.
- You prefer high-quality stainless steel and glass materials.
- You brew large batches to last up to two weeks.
Skip it if:
- You need a lightweight, portable pitcher.
- You’re looking for a compact unit for a tiny fridge.
5. OXO Brew Compact Cold Brew Coffee Maker
Best for: Someone with limited kitchen space who still wants a quality result.
The borosilicate glass carafe comes with a silicone-sealed stopper to keep the concentrate fresh. While it’s perfect for small batches, it isn’t for someone who hosts large parties or drinks coffee in very high volumes throughout the week.
Good if:
- You have limited space in your refrigerator.
- You only need to brew enough for a few days.
- You want a system that automates the filtration process.
Skip it if:
- You need a large capacity for multiple people.
- You’re looking for a multi-purpose machine.
6. Ninja Hot & Iced XL Coffee Maker with Rapid Cold
Best for: The impatient user who wants both cold brew and hot coffee options.
The Ninja Hot & Iced offers a “Cold Brew” setting that works in 10 minutes. This is a major departure from the traditional 12-24 hour steeping methods used by other models. It also provides multiple brew styles, including Classic, Rich, and Over Ice, making it a true multitasker.
The removable reservoir has auto-metering, which means the machine senses the water level for you.
Good if:
- You want cold brew coffee in minutes rather than hours.
- You need one machine for both hot and iced drinks.
- You prefer not to measure water manually.
Skip it if:
- You’re dedicated to the traditional overnight cold brew method.
- You have very little counter space for a full coffee station.
7. County Line Kitchen 64oz Cold Brew Coffee Maker with Leak
Best for: Someone who loves the mason jar aesthetic and wants a simple, rugged tool.
The stainless steel mesh filter is designed to keep grounds out of your drink effectively. However, this is a manual process that requires you to handle the jar and the filter yourself. It isn’t for someone who wants an automated system or a machine that dispenses coffee via a tap.
Good if:
- You like the look and utility of a mason jar.
- You want a simple, dishwasher-safe design.
- You also want to make iced tea.
Skip it if:
- You want a machine that handles the filtration for you.
- You need a built-in tap for dispensing.
8. Primula Burke Deluxe Cold Brew Iced Coffee Maker
Best for: A first-time buyer looking for an ergonomic experience.
The Primula Burke Deluxe features a comfort-grip handle for easy pouring. The glass carafe is designed to fit in most refrigerator doors, which is helpful for organization.
This model is focused on making the cold brew process accessible to everyone, from novices to enthusiasts.
Good if:
- You want a comfortable, easy-to-pour handle.
- You’re buying your first cold brew maker.
- You want a simple process that’s easy to clean.
Skip it if:
- You need a large-capacity system for many people.
- You’re looking for high-end features like a dispensing tap.
9. Maestri House Cold Brew Coffee Maker
Best for: Someone who wants precision and control over their coffee concentration.
The Maestri House pitcher is made of durable, BPA-free Tritan and features precise scales on the body to help you nail your coffee-to-water ratio. If you like experimenting with different strengths, this pitcher makes it easy to track your results. The 350-mesh filter is designed to keep the brew very clean and residue-free.
Its removable bottom cover on the filter makes it easier to clean than many all-in-one designs.
Good if:
- You like to experiment with different coffee ratios.
- You want an easy-to-clean, residue-free filter.
- You prefer a durable, shatter-proof Tritan pitcher.
Skip it if:
- You want an automated brewing machine.
- You prefer glass over plastic materials.
10. 1 Gallon Cold Brew
Best for: Large families or anyone who entertains guests frequently.
This 1-gallon maker is built for high volume, using heavy-duty soda-lime glass and a stainless steel spigot for easy serving. It’s designed to brew in 4-6 hours, which is faster than many standard immersion brewers.
The stainless steel filter includes a scale line to help with measuring grounds, and the spigot is tested for leaks.
Good if:
- You need to brew large quantities for a family.
- You want a dispensing tap for parties.
- You want a faster-than-average steeping time.
Skip it if:
- You have a small refrigerator.
- You only need to brew a single cup or two at a time.
Where These Overlap
Many of these brewers function on the same basic principle of immersion, where grounds are steeped in water for an extended period. The OXO Good Grips Cold Brew and the OXO Brew Compact are nearly identical in function, with the main difference being their capacity. Similarly, the County Line Kitchen and the Primula Burke Deluxe both offer simple, pitcher-based designs that prioritize ease of use over complex technology. If you choose between these, the decision should be based on your preferred material—glass versus Tritan—and how much space you have available in your refrigerator door or shelf.
Still Not Sure?
How often will I really use it?
If you plan to brew only once a week for yourself, a smaller model like the OXO Brew Compact will satisfy your needs without taking up too much room. If you’re a daily drinker who shares with others, a larger 1-gallon capacity or the KitchenAid Cold Brew will save you from constant refilling.
What do I already own that this has to work with?
Check your refrigerator shelves before buying. If you have limited height, the Takeya Deluxe Cold Brew is designed to fit in most door bins. If you have a dedicated space on a shelf, the KitchenAid Cold Brew or the large-capacity dailybrew model will work well, provided you have the vertical clearance.
What am I most likely to regret choosing?
Most buyers regret choosing a unit that is too small or fragile for their household. If you are concerned about spills or breakage, the Tritan material used in the Takeya Deluxe Cold Brew is a safer alternative to glass.
Choosing the right maker comes down to your routine. If you want a hands-off, consistent, and high-quality concentrate, the OXO Good Grips Cold Brew is a top contender. If you value speed and want to enjoy cold brew in minutes, the Ninja Hot & Iced is the best way forward.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Does the temperature of the water matter for cold brew?
Traditional cold brew uses room temperature or cold water to extract flavor slowly over many hours. While the National Coffee Association notes that water temperature affects extraction, cold brewing relies on time to compensate for the lower heat. Most units like the OXO Good Grips Cold Brew are designed specifically for this long, cold-water process.
Can I use my cold brew maker for hot coffee?
Some models, like the Takeya Deluxe Cold Brew and the Primula Burke Deluxe, are made with materials that can withstand hot water. However, the Ninja Hot & Iced is specifically engineered to switch between hot and cold brewing modes, making it the most versatile option if you frequently change your coffee temperature preferences.
How do I know if the filter is fine enough?
A high-quality filter is crucial to prevent grit in your cup. Models like the Maestri House Cold Brew and the high-volume dailybrew use ultra-fine stainless steel mesh to ensure a clean pour. If you prefer even cleaner coffee, you can always place a paper filter inside the mesh basket, though this isn’t required for any of these units.
How long does the concentrate stay fresh?
When stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, most cold brew concentrates remain fresh for up to two weeks. The KitchenAid Cold Brew is specifically marketed to maintain freshness for this duration. Always ensure your lid is sealed properly, especially with leak-proof options like the Takeya Deluxe Cold Brew, to keep the flavor profile consistent.
Conclusion
Experimenting with different water temperatures is the best way to find your perfect cup. Don’t be afraid to tweak your routine until the flavor hits just right. Once you’ve settled on a favorite method, try using a new single-origin bean to see how it changes your morning brew. You’ll love the results.
