10 Best Cold Brew Coffee Makers in 2022 (Ovalware, Takeya, and More)
If you can't get enough of the refreshing taste of cold brew coffee, why not try recreating it in the comfort of your own home? As long as you have the right equipment at hand or even just a simple carafe, you can have your favorite cold brew coffee whenever. There are countless coffee makers with useful features that will help you create the perfect cold brew.
To help you comb through all the choices, we carefully researched the 10 best options available. In the number one spot is the OXO 32 Ounce Cold Brew Coffee Maker since it wets the grounds evenly and has a spout for easy dispensing. After the best 10 list, you will find a buying guide to help you consider all of the important factors that go into choosing a suitable coffee maker.
Quick List - Top Cold Brew Coffee Makers
Following a decade-long career as a designer/art director in the fashion and beauty industry, I found my new calling in a coffee shop in Japan, where I met my husband who is a barista. We now run a coffee shop together in the countryside. My knowledge and passion for specialty coffee continues to grow, and I enjoy trying new beans and methods every day!
mybest US' editing team consists of experienced members who have backgrounds in writing, editing, translation, and more. We are dedicated to researching what makes a product or service the best to users in the US in order to create top-quality articles. From skincare, to kitchen appliances, and to DIY supplies, our mission is to find the best ones for you.
The expert oversees the Buying Guide only, and does not determine the products and services featured.
Table of Contents
- How to Choose a Cold Brew Coffee Maker - Buying Guide
- Pick Based on the Brewing Method1
- Automatic Machines are Convenient, Manual Can Make Stronger Brews2
- 18-Ounce Machines Are Enough for One Person3
- Consider Glass, BPA-Free Plastic, or Stainless Steel to Protect Your Health4
- Look for Convenient Extras Like Spouts or Handles5
- Extra Tips for Maintenance and Cleaning
- More Cold Brew Tips From a Coffee Expert
- How to Make Your Own Cold Brew at Home
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Why drink cold brew coffee?
- How long does cold brew last?
- Is cold brew healthy?
- More Ways to Get a Perfect Cup of Coffee
- Amazon's Best Selling Cold Brew Coffee Makers
How to Choose a Cold Brew Coffee Maker - Buying Guide
Choosing a cold brew coffee maker isn't easy since you need to consider its brew method, capacity, materials, and more. This buying guide will provide you with all of the information you need to know!
Pick Based on the Brewing Method
There are two types of cold brew methods: ice drip or immersion. Each method has slightly different effects on the coffee's flavors and production time. You may see nitro cold brew makers in your search, but these don't actually make coffee.
Immersion Creates Concentrated Coffee but Has a Long Brew Time
The immersion cold brew method is more common than ice drip. Coffee produced using this method is strong and very concentrated. As this method requires no special technique or equipment, you have the flexibility to create your own cold brew kit.
This method is simple: submerge coffee grounds in cold water and let them sit for more than 12 hours. Once time is up, simply strain the grounds. A longer brew time yields better flavor is since cold water gradually draws out oils and acids from the coffee.
Although it creates a balanced flavor, immersion does not allow for much control over the extraction process. It may leave out brighter notes of the coffee that some coffee enthusiasts value.
Depending on how coarse your coffee grounds are, this method allows more grit into the coffee so you'll have to be intentional in cleaning and making sure the filter does its job.
However, immersion is an easy process and you can make large batches at once. The flavor is consistent and predictable, and the coffee oils make it thick and full-bodied. Because the grounds are saturated for a long period of time, the result is a smooth, low-acidic taste.
If you prefer a balanced flavor, need to make a lot of cold brew at once, and have ample time on your hands, this method is a good choice. However, the flavors may be less distinct; if you want to note certain flavors of your coffee, this may not be the right method for you.
While less acidity may sound like a positive thing, some consider this a loss of the coffee’s intended complexity of flavor. Perhaps from this concern, a new trend has emerged–using hot water for the first few seconds of the brew, followed by cold water. Called the “hot bloom” method, this allows the aroma and complexity of the coffee to shine through!
Ice Drip Provides a Range of Flavors but Needs Equipment
Compared to the immersion method, ice drip is more hands-on and provides a visual coffee-brewing experience. Yet, it can still take up to eight hours or more to brew. With this method, cold water directly drips on coffee grounds and passes through a filter into a carafe.
While it can provide a broader range of flavors, you must monitor the drip rate to make sure it's consistent. You will need to rely on special equipment, which may be bothersome to those that prefer simplicity.
However, if you love to experiment with flavors, ice drip may be ideal. Ice drip coffee has a clean flavor, and this method can emphasize floral and fruity notes. It may take tweaks to the temperature and volume; however, many fans of this method claim that it produces the true flavor of the coffee.
Automatic Machines are Convenient, Manual Can Make Stronger Brews
If you're short on time and enjoy customizing your coffee strength, you may want to go with an automatic coffee maker. These tend to have various strength modes ranging from light to concentrated for you to choose from, and the brewing time can be as short as 15 minutes.
Meanwhile, manual options tend to make a rich concentrate since the coffee takes at least 12 hours to brew. However, the results of your coffee will vary depending on your technique and brew time.
18-Ounce Machines Are Enough for One Person
Consider how many people you're sharing coffee with or if it's just for you. For a family or an afternoon with friends, you may want to go with a coffee maker with a large capacity of over 40 ounces to be sure everyone gets a cup. If it's just you, an 18-ounce maker should be sufficient.
The capacity may also impact your choice of beans; if you plan on brewing a large amount, you might be hesitant to use single-origin specialty coffee beans, as they are quite pricey for even a small amount.
For cold brew, I recommend coffee beans from Africa, such as Ethiopia and Kenya. Depending on the roast level, you can enjoy floral or citrus flavors. I personally like medium-light roast and medium-roast. If the beans have gone through the fermentation process, you may even get hints of whiskey or wine. Washed-process beans give you a refreshing mouthfeel that’s perfect for a hot day.
Consider Glass, BPA-Free Plastic, or Stainless Steel to Protect Your Health
It's a good idea to determine the materials of your coffee maker. BPA, which stands for bisphenol A, is used in some plastics and is under speculation for hormonal disruption. Research has not determined BPA as the direct cause of this risk, however, you may want to go for a BPA-free option for peace of mind.
There are plenty of stainless steel and glass options to choose from if you prefer these materials. Plus, these materials won't affect the flavor of your cold brew! Stainless steel and glass are also easier to clean than plastic and help maintain a steady temperature.
While plastic and stainless steel are certainly less fragile than glass, you’ll want to consider storing the finished product in a glass container to avoid unwanted odors transferring to your coffee as it sits in the fridge. Regardless, look for a cold brew maker with a metal mesh filter for the most consistently flavorful coffee and to minimize sediment.
Look for Convenient Extras Like Spouts or Handles
Most cold brew coffee makers are straightforward, but there are some extra features that add convenience or functionality. If you want to be able to dispense coffee right from the brewer, look for a tap or spout. A spout also means you won't have to take the cold brew out of the fridge every time you want a drink.
Cold brew makers that are stored in the fridge will obviously get cold, especially glass models. Look for handles, especially non-slip ones, to avoid cold hands. You can also find options with added insulation that keep the coffee cold, like double-walled carafes, or lids to help keep it fresh.
Some manufacturers include stands or rubber bases to help keep glass coffee makers safe from cracks. And while it's best to hand-wash cold brew makers, especially glass ones, you can find models that are dishwasher-safe for easier cleaning!
10 Best Cold Brew Coffee Makers
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | OXO Compact Cold Brew Coffee Maker | | Best for Even Water Distribution | |
2 | Takeya Patented Deluxe Cold Brew Iced Coffee Maker | | Best Durable Plastic Overnight Brewer | |
3 | Ovalware Airtight Cold Brew Iced Coffee Maker | | Best Glass Maker With a Non-Slip Rubber Base | |
4 | OXO | | Best Compact Fridge Brewer | |
5 | KitchenAid Cold Brew Coffee Maker | | Best for Easy Dispensing from the Fridge | |
6 | Toddy | | Best for Clean, Ground-Free Coffee | |
7 | Cuisinart Automatic Cold Brew Coffee Maker | | Best Automatic Maker for Quick Cold Brew | |
8 | Asobu Portable Cold Brew Coffee Maker | | Best Portable Coffee Maker With a Mug | |
9 | County Line Kitchen | | Best Simple Maker With an Easy-to-Replace Jar | |
10 | Yama Glass | | Best Ice Drip Maker for Coffee Aficionados |
Best for Even Water Distribution
Pros:
- Unique "rain" top wets the grounds evenly
- Switch to easily dispense coffee
- Borosilicate glass carafe is shatter-resistant
- Comes with a reusable filter and paper filters
- Handy measurements on the carafe
Cons:
- Reports of quality control issues with O-ring, leading to leaks
What sets this coffee maker apart is its rainmaker top that allows even water distribution over the grounds to make your coffee taste richer. It has a switch that dispenses the coffee into the glass carafe, and you just place the carafe in the fridge to chill. So, it's an excellent option if you're short on fridge space!
There are some reports of poor O-rings, and a few customers suggest replacing the one it comes with to avoid leaks. Over, many reviewers enjoy that it's easy to operate and clean. They also like the usefulness of the switch, saying it's less messy and easier to dispense coffee than other cold brew makers.
TakeyaPatented Deluxe Cold Brew Iced Coffee Maker
Best Durable Plastic Overnight Brewer
Pros:
- Thick BPA-free plastic body is dishwasher-safe and won't shatter or crack
- Minimal number of pieces for easier cleaning
- Reusable filter
- Non-slip silicone handle
Cons:
- Reports that the grounds in the filter don't get evenly saturated, leading to a weaker brew
This simple overnight cold brew maker is made of thick BPA-free plastic, making it more durable than glass models. It only has a few pieces and is dishwasher-safe, making it easy to clean. Simply fill the filter with grounds, screw it into the cap, and let it sit. It's also available in a two-quart size!
Some reviewers complain that the coffee grounds do not get wet enough to be fully saturated, creating a lighter brew. However, many are pleased with how easy it is to fill and use. Reviewers confirm that it's durable and simple to clean as well. They also like that the one-quart size fits in fridge door shelves.
OvalwareAirtight Cold Brew Iced Coffee Maker
Best Glass Maker With a Non-Slip Rubber Base
Pros:
- Handy measurement markings
- Rubber non-slip base stand
- Lid for easy storage
Cons:
- Reports of fragile glass
This overnight cold brew maker has a removable stainless steel filter and useful measurement markings. It also has a tight lid that allows you to store your cold brew in the fridge for up to two weeks.
There are older reviews stating that the glass is fragile, and the manufacturer now includes a rubber base for added protection. Overall, many love how aesthetically pleasing the body is and say the filter is easy to clean. They also confirm that it makes smooth, delicious cold brew.
Best Compact Fridge Brewer
Pros:
- Compact 16-ounce size
- Includes a cork stopper for easy coffee storage
- Raintop drip soaks grounds evenly
- Borosilicate glass carafe is sturdier
Cons:
- Reports of leaks
This small 16-ounce overnight brewer is perfect if you have limited fridge space or only make coffee for one person. It has a "raintop" lid that helps evenly wet the grounds for better flavor. The glass carafe also comes with a cork stopper that helps keep your coffee fresh.
There are some reports of leaks due to the gasket, similar to the other OXO option in our list. Otherwise, reviewers appreciate its compact size, confirming that it doesn't take up a lot of space. They also like that it's easy to use and makes clean-tasting cold brew.
Best for Easy Dispensing from the Fridge
Pros:
- Square shape maximizes its footprint
- Fill level indicators on the filter for easier use
- Tap lets you dispense while it's in the fridge
- Handle for easier carrying
Cons:
- Pictured stand is sold separately
- Reports of leaks
This coffee maker has a built-in tap that makes it easy to dispense coffee straight from the fridge without making a mess. It also has a handle that makes it easier to carry around. Additionally, the reusable stainless steel steeper has fill level indicators to help you make the best brew.
There are some reports that it leaks, leaving a mess in the fridge. However, most like that it fits nicely in the fridge and makes smooth, rich cold brew. Reviewers also like its sleek, modern appearance and easy use.
Best for Clean, Ground-Free Coffee
Pros:
- Has two layers of filtration
- Includes a lid for the carafe
- Comes with two felt filters and three paper filters
Cons:
- Capacity isn't specified
- Will have to repurchase paper filters
This immersion brewer has two steps of filtration: a reusable felt filter and a paper filter. This creates rich cold brew without any grounds. Plus, the carafe comes with a lid for storing your coffee.
A few reviewers report that it takes trial and error to get the hang of this maker, and others note that the plastic handle is weak. However, many reviewers love the flavor of cold brew it makes, saying it's rich and smooth. They also like that the paper filter means that there's less to clean!
CuisinartAutomatic Cold Brew Coffee Maker
Best Automatic Maker for Quick Cold Brew
Pros:
- Removable parts are dishwasher-safe
- Has handy measurement markings
- Release lever for easy dispensing
- Three brewing strengths
- Can make cold brew in 25 to 45 minutes
Cons:
- Nooks and crannies are more difficult to clean
- Reports that filter isn't durable
If you don't have time to wait for a cup of cold brew, consider this automatic option. In as little as 25 minutes, you can have around seven cups of coffee that can be stored in the fridge. There are three brew strength options, and the bold option takes 45 minutes to brew.
Some reviewers note that the filter is delicate and tricky to clean, so be extra careful when using it. On the other hand, many customers are quite pleased that it makes tasty coffee quickly. Many especially love the bold setting!
Best Portable Coffee Maker With a Mug
Pros:
- Small enough to take with you
- Stainless steel carafe doubles as a mug
- Double-walled mug keeps the coffee cold
- Drain the filter with a button
Cons:
- Reports of leaks and cap getting stuck
If you travel, this portable coffee maker with an attached mug is a convenient option. Simply press the button to drain the coffee into the mug below! The top holds up to 40 ounces, so you will have enough for a few cups. Plus, the mug is double-walled to keep your cold brew chilled.
A few reviewers say leaking will occur if the rubber seal is not correctly positioned, and others experience the cap getting stuck. On the other hand, most are impressed that the grounds do not seep through the filter. Many also report that it's easy to use and a great gift for cold brew-lovers!
Best Simple Maker With an Easy-to-Replace Jar
Pros:
- Only three dishwasher-safe pieces
- The filter is compatible with Ball and Kerr mason jars
- Easy to store finished cold brew in the jar
Cons:
- Lack of handles or insulation means it will be cold to the touch
- Lid isn't very secure
This simple option only has three pieces: a mason jar, filter, and gasket. It makes two quarts of coffee yet won't take up a lot of fridge space! Plus, it's compatible with most mason jars, so you can use additional jars after you're done making one batch.
Some reviewers note that the lid doesn't screw on securely and may leak. However, most users loved this cold brew maker for its simple design and use. They appreciate the use of the mason jar, saying it's easy to clean and can be used for other things.
Best Ice Drip Maker for Coffee Aficionados
Pros:
- Makes cold brew in a few hours
- Comes with a reusable ceramic filter
- Combination of ceramic and paper filters keeps grounds out
- Offers a visual experience
- Can control the drip rate
Cons:
- Tricky to clean
- Takes more skill to use
If you enjoy the experience of making coffee and getting that perfect cup, consider this beautiful ice drip cold brew maker! It makes coffee within a few hours, which is much faster than manual immersion models. Plus, you can control the rate of the drip.
It should be noted that this maker is trickier to use and clean compared to other options. However, reviewers say that it looks stunning and makes smooth, clean cold brew. They enjoy having more control over the brewing process, too.
Extra Tips for Maintenance and Cleaning
Brewing coffee at home is easy, but you will have to learn the basics and make sure your maker stays clean for the best results. Here are some brewing tips to get you started!
Clean Thoroughly and Often
Just because most cold brew makers are stored in the fridge doesn't keep them from getting moldy. You will need to clean your maker regularly!
You will need mild soap, water, and a washcloth or non-abrasive scrubbing pad. Remove the filter and make sure to scrub the carafe with soap and water to get rid of any build-up. If there are multiple components, it's crucial to scrub each part thoroughly. Once washed, allow everything to dry fully to prevent any trapped moisture.
For further maintenance, pour your cold brew into a different container and dump the grounds into a trash bin once the brewing process is finished. These steps will help keep your filter mold-free.
Think About Reusable and Single-Use Filters
Paper coffee filters are extremely fine and can capture most oils and micro-fines, the smallest bits of coffee ground. The taste, therefore, is lighter and has a subtle sweetness. Although a bit wasteful day-to-day, paper filters are easily disposable. However, since it traps oil, you may lose some of the coffee's nuance and body.
You can also use reusable cloth filters. While you have to wash and dry them daily, they do produce consistent, full-bodied pours while reducing waste. If you are environmentally conscious and find the maintenance isn't much of a hassle, a reusable coffee filter is a perfect alternative!
Reusable metal filters may not be fine enough to prevent coffee grounds from settling at the bottom of your cup. So, you may need to use a coarser grind. However, ultrafine metal filters will keep most grounds out, are easy to clean, and won't affect the flavor. Plus, unlike paper or cloth, metal allows the oils to stay in the coffee for fuller flavor.
To further prevent sediment from getting through, keep the filter clean and make sure it covers the surface of all the coffee grounds that will be in contact during the brewing process.
A stainless steel filter often results in a very pure, direct brew so as to really feel the taste of coffee beans. It’s great for those who enjoy the mouthfeel of a rich coffee, including the coffee oil and/or a bean-like taste. Keep in mind that paper filters might have a slight effect on the taste of your brew.
More Cold Brew Tips From a Coffee Expert
Nicole says, "The flavor of your cold brew will change depending on the process and roast level of your beans. For example, in the natural and fermented processes, you can taste fruity and deep flavors, whereas with a dark roast, more bitter and mellow notes.
Contrary to popular belief, the recommended grind size for cold brew is medium-coarse to medium. Too fine a grind will result in oily and bitter coffee, whereas too coarse will taste weak and diluted. Water quality is also important. For the best results, use a bottled or filtered water, such as Brita.
Don’t worry if you can’t fit one of the larger cold brew makers in your fridge; you can always divide up into a few smaller air-tight containers (mason jars work great!). Not only will this help with storage, but by decanting, you can also remove the sediment by using a fine mesh strainer."
How to Make Your Own Cold Brew at Home
Here are two ways to make cold brew at home! Thanks to professional cook and coffee connoisseur Joshua Weissman for the simple yet engaging instructions. For more detailed guidance, go to his website.
Directions for immersion cold brew:
- Grind one and a half cups of coffee beans until they are coarse and add them to a half-gallon container.
- Add six cups of water, stir, and leave it in the fridge for twelve to twenty-four hours.
- Once brewed, strain the coffee grinds through a fine mesh strainer or a paper filter.
Directions for the hot bloom method:
- Grind one and a half cups of coffee beans until they are coarse and add them to a half-gallon container.
- Add two cups of hot water, stir, and let sit for one minute.
- Add four cups of cold water, stir, and store in the fridge for twelve to twenty-four hours.
- Once brewed, strain the coffee grounds through a fine mesh strainer or a paper filter.
Frequently Asked Questions
After going through the buying guide, you may still have some lingering questions about cold brew coffee. Check out the answers below if you want to learn more!
Why drink cold brew coffee?
Cold brew coffee is not simply iced coffee, which is brewed hot and then served cold. It's produced by steeping coffee grounds in either cold or room temperature water for twelve to twenty-four hours to create a coffee concentrate. It can be mixed with milk or cold water.
Although both methods use grounds and water, cold brew coffee tastes smoother. It's also more concentrated since it brews much longer, bringing out the unique and subtle flavors of the beans. You may taste hints of chocolate or citrus flavors that you didn't notice when brewing it hot!
Furthermore, the mild brewing process reduces the acidity of coffee up to 67 percent. Since it contains fewer polyphenols, has low acidity, and can be sipped through a straw, it is less likely to stain your teeth. If you also have a sensitive stomach, this is a great alternative as it is more alkaline than hot coffee.
Nicole mentions that "cold brew coffee is known as being considerably less acidic than the same coffee beans would be if brewed hot. This has to do with the chemistry of what compounds are broken down during the brewing process. So it’s a great option for those looking for a smoother, brighter, and less bitter-tasting coffee!"
How long does cold brew last?
Undiluted cold brew can be stored in the fridge for up to two weeks. Therefore, you can make a lot of coffee at once and enjoy it throughout the week! Keep in mind that flavor may degrade after the first week. If you dilute it with water, the flavor will lessen after two or three days.
A great aspect of making cold brew is that you can leave it at room temperature if there is not enough storage in the fridge; however, be sure to store it in the fridge after the filtration is complete so that it will stay fresh. Be sure to account for the available space in your fridge to decide on the right size for your coffee maker.
Is cold brew healthy?
For many people, coffee is an indispensable part of their daily routine, and in fact, if you drink in moderation, it has a lot of potential health benefits.
Because it comes from a seed of a coffee cherry, it is rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory elements that may help with brain, bone, and digestive health, cancer, and heart disease. Plus, as mentioned before, cold brew is lower in acidity and gentler on sensitive stomaches.
On the other hand, there are some risks if you consume more than four cups a day. Its high caffeine content can raise blood pressure and if unfiltered, can result in high cholesterol. Side effects such as heartburn or insomnia may occur depending on your intake, so be sure to be mindful of your consumption.
More Ways to Get a Perfect Cup of Coffee
There are plenty of ways to improve the experience of making coffee at home. Take a look at some of our favorite products below!
Top 5 Cold Brew Coffee Makers
No. 1: OXO｜Compact Cold Brew Coffee Maker
No. 2: Takeya｜Patented Deluxe Cold Brew Iced Coffee Maker
No. 3: Ovalware｜Airtight Cold Brew Iced Coffee Maker
No. 4: OXO ｜
No. 5: KitchenAid｜Cold Brew Coffee Maker
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
Most ViewedFeatured Rankings Similar to Coffee and tea products
Search by category
Health
Body care products, Health accessories, Health foods and supplementsBeauty
Blushes, Bronzers, CleansersHome goods
Bath supplies, Ceremonial occasion supplies, Cleaning suppliesHome electronics
Air conditioners and coolers, AV accessories, Blenders and food processorsPC
Computer supplies, Desktop computers, TabletsCamera
Camera bags and backpacks, Camera supplies, Digital single lens camerasFood and drinks
Jams and Jellies, Alcohol, BreadsKitchen
Coffee and tea products, Cooking utensils, CupsFashion
Footwear products, Men's shoes, SandalsAccessories
Wristwatches, Accessories and jewelry, Umbrellas and parasolsKids and baby
Baby carriers, Baby food, Baby formulaInterior
Beds, Beds and bedding, ChairsHobbies
Aromatherapy products, Art supplies, Arts and collectiblesOutdoor
Barbecue grills and fire pits, Camping beds and cots, Camping gearHome, garden, and tools
Agricultural materials and gardening supplies, Exterior and garden furniture, Materials and repairing agentsSports and fitness
Sports shoes, Surfing supplies, Badminton suppliesPets
Bird and small animal supplies, Cat Supplies, Dog SuppliesMedia
Books and magazines, CD, Children's books, picture books and illustrated encyclopediasGames
Gaming accessories, Nintendo Switch games, PC gamesApps
Business apps, Cooking apps, Dating appsAutomotive
Car accessories, Car navigation systemsGifts
Christmas gifts, Father's Day gifts, Gifts for childrenMobile devices
Mobile phone and smartphone accessories, Wearable devices and smart watches