As the warm weather approaches, the appeal of a smooth, refreshing glass of iced coffee becomes undeniable. While you could simply pour hot coffee over ice, the true connoisseur knows that cold brew is the superior method for a less acidic, naturally sweeter, and incredibly smooth iced coffee. Having the right equipment makes the process effortless, turning your kitchen into a personal café.
With so many cold brew coffee makers on the market, from simple immersion pitchers to high-tech automatic machines, choosing the best one can be a challenge. This roundup is designed to simplify your decision by highlighting ten of the best options available. We have evaluated each model on its features, ease of use, and overall value to help you find the perfect cold brew companion for your summer routine and beyond.
Our Top Cold Brew Coffee Maker Picks
- OXO Good Grips 32 Ounce Cold Brew Coffee Maker
- KitchenAid 28 oz Cold Brew Coffee Maker
- County Line Kitchen Glass Cold Brew Coffee Maker
- Bean Envy Cold Brew Coffee Maker
- Cuisinart Automatic Cold Brew Coffeemaker
- Toddy Filters (2-pack)
- Ninja Specialty Fold-Away Frother Coffee Maker
- Hario “Mizudashi” Cold Brew Coffee Pot
- Cold Brew Coffee Maker,64 oz Mason Jar Pitcher
- Toddy Cold Brew System
OXO Good Grips 32 Ounce Cold Brew Coffee Maker
The OXO Good Grips Cold Brew Coffee Maker is engineered for those who appreciate a meticulous brewing process. Its standout “Rainmaker” feature is designed to evenly saturate the coffee grounds, which promotes a full and even extraction for a consistently smooth, low-acid coffee concentrate. This concentrate can then be diluted with water or milk to prepare both hot and cold coffee beverages, offering great versatility.
After the steeping period is complete, the filtration process is remarkably simple. A simple switch activates the drainage, filtering the coffee directly into the included glass carafe. The entire system is designed with the user in mind, making cleanup straightforward and the entire process from brewing to serving a clean and efficient experience.
KitchenAid 28 oz Cold Brew Coffee Maker
For those with limited counter or refrigerator space, the KitchenAid Cold Brew Coffee Maker offers a compact solution without compromising on quality. Its small footprint makes it an ideal fit for any kitchen, and the classic design will look right at home alongside other KitchenAid appliances. The unit includes a reusable stainless steel steeper and is clearly labeled with fill level indicators.
These indicators take the guesswork out of the brewing process, ensuring you achieve the perfect coffee-to-water ratio every time. The system is designed for simplicity, allowing you to brew your beverage of choice with minimal effort. It’s a straightforward, reliable option for daily cold brew preparation.
County Line Kitchen Glass Cold Brew Coffee Maker
The County Line Kitchen Cold Brew Maker is a versatile 2-quart pitcher built for durability and ease. Its heavy-duty glass construction and leak-proof lid make it a reliable choice for storage and serving. The design emphasizes simplicity: just fill the included stainless steel mesh filter with grounds, add cold water, and let it steep.
Cleanup is convenient, as the components are dishwasher-safe. A key feature is the easy-pour dispenser with a flip cap, which allows for smooth, controlled pouring without awkward tilting or spills. The high-quality mesh filter ensures a smooth, grit-free brew, making it a fantastic multi-purpose pitcher for cold brew, iced tea, and more.
Bean Envy Cold Brew Coffee Maker
Bean Envy offers a compact and user-friendly cold brew pitcher that brews up to 32 ounces, or about four cups, of coffee. The process is simple and requires no special skills: add your favorite coffee grounds and let it steep for 12 to 24 hours. Its all-in-one design allows you to brew, store, and serve from the same attractive carafe.
This pitcher is built with premium materials for long-term use. It features durable borosilicate glass, a silicone non-slip base for stability, and a precision-cut stainless steel filter that keeps grounds out of your final brew. It’s a solid, straightforward option for personal use.
Cuisinart Automatic Cold Brew Coffeemaker
For those who prefer not to wait, the Cuisinart Automatic Cold Brew Coffeemaker is a game-changer. It uses a unique brewing technology to produce ready-to-drink cold brew in as little as 25 to 45 minutes, a fraction of the time required for traditional steeping methods. This is the perfect solution for spontaneous iced coffee cravings.
The machine offers a Strength Selector, allowing you to choose between mild, medium, and bold brew settings to match your personal taste. A clear brewing chamber and removable water tank and coffee filter basket make filling and cleaning a simple task. It includes a 7-cup glass carafe for serving and storage.
Toddy Filters (2-pack)
This listing is for those who already own and love the classic Toddy Cold Brew System. These are genuine Toddy replacement filters, uniquely designed for optimal cold brew filtration. They are engineered to extract the natural, delicious flavors of coffee and tea while leaving behind the bitter acids and oils that can cause stomach discomfort.
For the best performance and flavor, it is suggested to change the filter after 10 to 12 uses or every three months, whichever comes first. Keeping fresh filters on hand is essential for maintaining the quality of your homemade cold brew concentrate.
Ninja Specialty Fold-Away Frother Coffee Maker
The Ninja Specialty Coffee Maker is a versatile machine that goes beyond just hot coffee. It includes a dedicated Cold Brew function that brews tea or coffee at a lower temperature over ice, delivering a smooth, naturally sweet flavor in just 10 to 15 minutes. This is an excellent feature for those who want quick iced beverages without planning ahead.
The machine features separate baskets for coffee and tea, and its Smart Basket Recognition automatically detects which one is inserted and displays the appropriate brewing options. With its built-in frother and ability to make everything from a single cup to a full 10-cup carafe, it’s a true all-in-one coffee station.
Hario “Mizudashi” Cold Brew Coffee Pot
Hario is a trusted name in coffee, and the Mizudashi Cold Brew Pot reflects their commitment to simple, effective design. This 600ml pot is compact and easy to store in your refrigerator, making the brewing and storing process seamless. Its minimalist approach is perfect for those who appreciate a no-fuss method.
The entire unit is dishwasher safe, which makes cleanup incredibly easy. Just add coffee and water, let it steep, and you have a reliable vessel for making classic Japanese-style cold brew coffee with minimal effort.
Cold Brew Coffee Maker,64 oz Mason Jar Pitcher
This 64-ounce mason jar-style pitcher offers a large capacity for households that consume a lot of cold brew. It is crafted from heavy-duty, food-grade glass and features a BPA-free plastic lid. The set includes a stainless steel filter and a cleaning brush for maintenance.
A key benefit is the pour spout handle lid, which combines an ergonomic grip for easy carrying with a flip-cap spout for drip-free pouring. The lid includes a sealing silicone ring to keep your beverage fresh and prevent leaks, making it a practical and spacious option for daily use.
Toddy Cold Brew System
The Toddy Cold Brew System is the original and a favorite among cold brew enthusiasts for making a highly concentrated brew. Known for its effective filtration that reduces acidity, it produces a smooth concentrate that can be stored for up to two weeks. This system is ideal for those who want to make a large batch of concentrate to enjoy over many days.
Its simple, manual process is reliable and consistently produces excellent results. The system includes a brewing container, a glass decanter for storage, and the specialized Toddy filters that are key to its unique extraction process.
Buying Guide: How to Choose Your 10 Best Cold Brew Coffee Maker 2025
Choosing the right cold brew coffee maker can feel a bit overwhelming with all the options out there. I’ve tested my fair share, and I can tell you that the best one for you really depends on your lifestyle and how you like your coffee. Let’s break down the key things I look for when picking a system.
First, consider the brewing capacity. Are you making coffee just for yourself, or do you need to supply a whole family or office? A compact, single-serving model like a mason jar brewer is perfect for personal use and saves fridge space. If you’re a serious cold brew drinker or entertain often, a larger dispenser-style maker that produces a half-gallon or more at a time is a much better investment. You don’t want to be brewing a new batch every other day.
Next, think about the filtration system. This is crucial for getting a smooth, grit-free cup. Most makers use a fine mesh filter, which works well for medium to coarse grinds. Some have ultra-fine metal filters, and others use disposable paper filters for the cleanest result. I personally prefer a sturdy, reusable metal filter because it’s more sustainable and doesn’t add to the ongoing cost, but if you’re sensitive to sediment, a paper filter or a maker with a built-in water-softening filter might be your best bet.
The material and durability of the brewer are also important. Glass carafes look beautiful but can be fragile. If you have kids or a busy kitchen, a brewer made from durable, BPA-free plastic or stainless steel might be a smarter, more resilient choice. Stainless steel also has the bonus of being opaque, which helps protect your coffee from light, potentially preserving its flavor for longer.
Finally, let’s talk about ease of use and cleaning. The whole process should be simple: add coffee, add water, steep, and separate. Some makers have an infuser that you just lift out, making cleanup a breeze. Others have more complex parts that need to be disassembled and hand-washed. I always lean towards models with fewer nooks and crannies where old coffee grounds can get stuck. A dishwasher-safe design is a huge plus for me, as it makes the routine much less of a chore. By focusing on these aspects—capacity, filtration, material, and cleanup—you can find the perfect 10 Best Cold Brew Coffee Maker 2025 for your countertop.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between cold brew and iced coffee?
This is a really common question! 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 creates a coffee that is naturally sweeter, less acidic, and smoother than iced coffee. It’s a completely different taste experience.
How long does homemade cold brew concentrate last in the refrigerator?
When stored properly in a sealed container in the fridge, your homemade cold brew concentrate should stay fresh for up to two weeks. I find it tastes best within the first 7 to 10 days. After that, it might start to lose some of its vibrant flavor and develop a slightly stale taste. Always give it a quick sniff before using it if it’s been in there for a while.
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 result in a muddy, over-extracted, and bitter brew because the fine particles will slip through the filter. A coarse grind allows for a slow, clean extraction that gives you that smooth, low-acidity flavor we’re all after. If you don’t have a grinder at home, most coffee shops will gladly grind your beans to a coarse setting for you.
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 brewer, I made cold brew in a large mason jar and filtered it through a cheesecloth-lined sieve. It works perfectly well. A dedicated 10 Best Cold Brew Coffee Maker 2025 simply streamlines the process, often with a built-in filter and an easy-pour spout, which reduces mess and makes storage more convenient. It’s a matter of convenience versus DIY.
Why is my homemade cold brew coming out weak or bitter?
Weak cold brew usually means you didn’t use enough coffee grounds, your steeping time was too short, or your grind was too coarse. Try increasing your coffee-to-water ratio or steeping for a few hours longer. Bitterness is often a sign of over-extraction, which can happen if your grind is too fine, you used too many grounds, or you steeped it for too long. It’s all about finding the right balance for your taste. I start with a 1:4 coffee-to-water ratio for concentrate and adjust from there.