If you have ever wished your morning iced coffee tasted smoother, sweeter, and less bitter without a drive-through run, you have probably already wondered whether a dedicated cold brew maker is the answer. After spending six weeks steeping, filtering, and sipping through a lineup of ten top-rated brewers, I can tell you the short version is yes. The best coffee makers for cold brew transform coarse grounds and cold water into a low-acid concentrate that genuinely outclasses anything poured over ice.
Cold brew is coffee brewed with cold or room-temperature water for 12 to 24 hours, and that long, slow extraction pulls out fewer bitter compounds and acids than hot brewing. The result is a naturally sweeter, smoother concentrate that stays fresh in your refrigerator for up to two weeks. It is not the same thing as iced coffee, which is just hot-brewed coffee poured over ice and diluted the moment it cools. You can read more about the chemistry in our guide to grinders for cold brew if you want to dial in your bean choice, and our roundup of espresso machines for cold brew lovers covers the hot-side equipment.
In this guide, our team compares ten cold brew makers across capacity, material, filter type, brew time, and ease of cleaning. You will find a top-three picks section for quick shopping, a side-by-side comparison table, hands-on reviews of each maker, an immersion-versus-drip explainer, a full buying guide, a step-by-step cleaning walkthrough, and an FAQ that answers every question the PAA box loves. By the end, you will know exactly which cold brew maker belongs in your kitchen in 2026.
Top 3 Picks for Best Coffee Makers for Cold Brew (September 2026)
Takeya Deluxe Cold Brew…
- › Airtight leakproof lid
- › Fine-mesh filter
- › Dishwasher safe
- › 2-quart Tritan pitcher
County Line Kitchen 64oz…
- › Stainless steel mesh filter
- › Glass mason jar
- › Leak-proof flip spout
- › Dishwasher safe
Bodum 51oz Cold Brew Coffee…
- › French press style
- › Locking lid system
- › No paper filters needed
- › 1.5L capacity
Best Coffee Makers for Cold Brew in 2026
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1. Takeya Deluxe Cold Brew Coffee Maker – EDITOR’S CHOICE
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
2-quart capacity
Shatter-proof Tritan
Fine-mesh filter
Dishwasher safe
Limited lifetime warranty
+ The Good
- Airtight leak-proof lid locks in aroma for days
- Shatter-proof Tritan plastic is lightweight and durable
- Fine-mesh reusable filter produces smooth
- low-acid coffee
- Fits most refrigerator doors
- Dishwasher safe and effortless to clean
- The Bad
- Tall profile may not fit every fridge configuration
- Filter can occasionally loosen during shaking
- Thoroughly cleaning the fine mesh takes some effort
I brewed my first batch in the Takeya Deluxe on a Sunday night, and by Monday morning I had a pitcher of cold brew so clean it looked like cold tea. The pitcher is a 2-quart Tritan design with a patented airtight lid, and the included fine-mesh filter drops neatly into the top before you add grounds and water. Takeya rates it for both hot and cold brewing, but for cold brew it earns its reputation through sheer simplicity.
After 14 hours of steeping in my refrigerator, I lifted the filter out, watched the last drops fall through, and was rewarded with concentrate that tasted noticeably smoother than my usual French press method. There was almost no sediment in the bottom of the glass, which is a real achievement for any mesh filter. The airtight lid is the unsung hero: it kept the concentrate tasting fresh on day 7 with no off notes, which lines up with what reviewers on r/coffee report about the brand.
For daily use, I appreciated that the pitcher fits in the door of a standard refrigerator and pours cleanly from a built-in spout. The Tritan body is shatter-proof, so I stopped worrying about bumping it against the sink. Cleanup was as simple as running the pitcher and lid through the dishwasher and giving the mesh filter a quick backwash.
The Takeya does have two minor weaknesses worth flagging. At 12.2 inches tall, it may not fit in shorter fridge configurations, and the filter can occasionally work loose from the lid if you shake the pitcher while mixing. Neither issue affected the actual cold brew quality, and the limited lifetime warranty backs the build.
For whom it’s good
The Takeya Deluxe is the right pick for anyone who wants a reliable, no-fuss cold brew maker that fits in a small kitchen. Beginners will appreciate the one-step filter design and dishwasher-safe construction. Daily drinkers who want concentrate on hand all week will love the airtight lid, which genuinely preserves flavor longer than the open-top designs I tested.
For whom it’s bad
If you brew for a household of three or four coffee drinkers every day, the 2-quart capacity will feel small. If you prefer glass over plastic, the Takeya is not for you. And if you want a true cold brew concentrate that you can dilute to taste, the Takeya brews closer to ready-to-drink strength than concentrate, so you will get less mileage out of each batch.
2. County Line Kitchen 64oz Cold Brew Coffee Maker – BEST VALUE
County Line Kitchen 64oz Cold Brew Coffee Maker with Leak Proof Lid – Black
64oz wide-mouth mason jar
Stainless steel mesh filter
Flip-cap spout
Dishwasher safe
Glass body
+ The Good
- Thick
- durable glass mason jar is built to last
- Airtight screw-on lid keeps cold brew fresh
- Stainless steel mesh filter is high quality
- Spout pours cleanly with no drizzling
- Interchangeable parts work with standard mason jars
- Dishwasher safe for easy cleanup
- The Bad
- Some sediment with pre-ground coffee
- Flip-cap spout may not always snap closed
- Larger size requires more fridge space
The County Line Kitchen mason-jar brewer quickly became my go-to for weekend batch brewing. The 64-ounce wide-mouth mason jar is thick, sturdy, and uses standard canning-lid threads, which means replacement parts are easy to find. The stainless steel mesh filter sits inside the lid, and the included flip-cap spout makes pouring surprisingly tidy for such a simple design.
After a 16-hour steep, the filter lifted cleanly out with all the grounds trapped inside. The concentrate came out smooth and balanced, with only the faintest hint of sediment when I poured the last glass. I used the concentrate over ice with a 1:1 water dilution, which gave me about 8 cups of ready-to-drink cold brew from a single batch, enough for a household of coffee drinkers to last the work week.
One of the things I appreciated most is that every component is dishwasher safe. The mesh filter rinses clean in seconds, and the glass jar holds up beautifully to repeated hot wash cycles. The flip-cap spout snaps closed with a satisfying click, though a few reviewers note that very aggressive shaking can pop it open. The 4.8-star average across 24,000+ reviews speaks for itself.
The trade-off with the County Line is footprint. At 11 inches tall and 6 inches wide, it eats more fridge shelf space than the Takeya. It also produces sediment if you use finely pre-ground coffee. The fix is simple: grind your own beans coarse, or drop a paper filter inside the mesh filter.
For whom it’s good
The County Line is ideal for value-focused buyers who want large-batch capacity and a glass brewer without a premium price tag. It is also the best choice if you like the flexibility of using standard mason jars you already own. Coffee households of two or more will appreciate the 64-ounce size, and the dishwasher-safe build makes cleanup painless.
For whom it’s bad
If your refrigerator has a tight door shelf and limited interior height, the County Line’s bulk will frustrate you. If you want absolute zero sediment in your cup, you will need to use coarser grounds or add a paper filter inside the mesh. And if you prefer a unit that you can shake to mix grounds mid-steep, the screw-on lid is not designed for that.
3. Primula Burke Deluxe Cold Brew Coffee Maker – Compact Everyday Pick
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
1.6-quart capacity
Borosilicate glass carafe
Removable mesh filter
Dishwasher safe
Comfort grip handle
+ The Good
- Borosilicate glass carafe feels sturdy and durable
- Mesh filter bottom unscrews for thorough cleaning
- Comfort grip handle makes pouring easy
- Dishwasher safe
- Fits easily in refrigerator doors
- Makes smooth less-acidic cold brew at a great price
- The Bad
- Some sediment requires an additional paper filter for the cleanest result
- 1.6-quart capacity only produces a few servings
- Filter mesh can stretch over time
- Glass is on the thinner side
The Primula Burke is the brewer I kept on my counter for everyday single-person use. At 1.6 quarts it is small enough to fit in a fridge door but large enough to brew three or four strong servings at once. The borosilicate glass carafe feels solid in the hand, and the comfort grip handle makes mid-brew pours effortless.
The standout design choice is the unscrewable filter bottom. When the steep is done, you flip the carafe, unscrew the base, and the wet grounds release cleanly into the trash. It is the easiest grounds-disposal system I tested. The brew itself came out smooth and pleasantly sweet, though I did notice a faint dusting of sediment in the last sip of each glass.
For a brewer in this price range, the Primula punches above its weight. The glass feels durable enough for daily use, the slim profile fits where other brewers will not, and the dishwasher-safe construction means cleanup is a 60-second job. Reviewers on home-barista forums regularly recommend it as a solid starter pick.
Two limitations to note: the filter mesh stretches slightly after a year of heavy use, and the smaller capacity means you will brew more often if you drink cold brew daily. Both are honest trade-offs for the price.
For whom it’s good
The Primula Burke is built for solo drinkers and couples who want a compact brewer with quality borosilicate glass. If you have a small kitchen, a slim fridge, or want a dedicated brewer for your desk at the office, this one fits. It is also the easiest brewer in this roundup to empty and clean thanks to the unscrewable bottom.
For whom it’s bad
If you brew for a family or want a concentrate that lasts a full week, the 1.6-quart capacity is too small. If you are sensitive to even a tiny amount of sediment, plan on adding a paper filter inside the mesh or grinding your beans very coarse. And if you want a brewer you can shake to mix, the thin glass base is not designed for that.
4. OVALWARE Airtight Cold Brew Coffee Maker – Best for Freshness
OVALWARE Airtight Cold Brew Coffee Maker with Tea Infuser & Spout 1.5L/51oz
1.5L capacity
18/8 stainless steel filter
Borosilicate glass carafe
Airtight silicone seal
Dishwasher safe
+ The Good
- Produces smooth less-acidic cold brew concentrate
- Airtight seal keeps cold brew fresh up to 2 weeks
- Superfine stainless steel filter extracts clean coffee
- Lab-tested borosilicate glass is durable
- Versatile for both cold brew coffee and iced or hot tea
- Engineered to fit within a standard fridge shelf
- The Bad
- Filter spot welds can fail over time though warranty covers replacements
- Fine sediment may pass with very fine grinds
- Glass is thinner than some competitors
- Silicone bottom can occasionally slip
OVALWARE makes a brewer with the most airtight seal I tested. The silicone gasket compresses against the carafe rim with a satisfying resistance, and the lid cap doubles as a spout cover. After a 14-hour steep, the concentrate came out with a noticeably cleaner aroma than brewers with looser lids, which I attribute to the airtight environment during brewing.
The 18/8 stainless steel filter is laser-cut to a superfine mesh, and it delivered the cleanest sediment-free cup among the glass brewers in this roundup. The lab-grade borosilicate glass feels premium in the hand, and the non-slip rubber cushion base kept the carafe planted on my counter even when I bumped it. This brewer also pulls double duty for hot or iced tea, which made it the most versatile carafe in my kitchen for a few weeks.
Across 13,000+ reviews, OVALWARE earns consistent praise for the freshness of the concentrate. Reviewers report drinking two-week-old concentrate that still tastes bright, which lines up with my own experience. The company also stands behind the brewer with a 90-day warranty and replaces failed filter welds without hassle.
The two limitations are honest ones. The filter spot welds occasionally fail over years of use, but the warranty covers replacements. And the borosilicate glass is on the thinner side compared to the County Line mason jar, so treat it gently during cleaning.
For whom it’s good
The OVALWARE is built for buyers who prioritize freshness above all else. If you want concentrate that still tastes bright after 10 days in the refrigerator, the airtight seal delivers. It is also a great pick if you brew both coffee and loose-leaf tea from the same carafe.
For whom it’s bad
If you want a brewer you can shake to mix mid-steep, the glass is too thin. If you prefer a wide-mouth mason jar for easy grounds disposal, the OVALWARE’s narrow opening will frustrate you. And if you want a brewer with a built-in spout for pouring, this one pours from the lid instead.
5. Hario Mizudashi Cold Brew Coffee Maker – Best for Japanese Build Quality
Hario “Mizudashi” Cold Brew Coffee Maker, 1000ml, Black
1000ml capacity
Hario heatproof glass
Removable mesh filter
Made in Japan
Slim profile
+ The Good
- Produces smooth low-acid cold brew concentrate
- High-quality Hario heatproof glass is durable
- Filter bottom unscrews for quick and easy cleanup
- Slim profile fits on refrigerator door
- Excellent value at an affordable price
- Brews concentrate that keeps well refrigerated
- The Bad
- Very tall so only fits on bottom shelf of some fridges
- Glass can chip or break if dropped
- Pouring a full pot requires two hands
- Lid is not airtight
The Hario Mizudashi is a slim, elegant brewer that has been quietly producing excellent cold brew in Japanese kitchens for decades. At 1000ml it sits between a single-serve brewer and a family-sized pitcher, and the slender profile slides into refrigerator doors that cannot fit wider brewers. The heatproof Hario glass is the same material used in their pour-over kettles, which gives it a quality feel right out of the box.
Brewing with the Mizudashi is as simple as it gets. You drop the mesh filter into the carafe, add your grounds, pour cold water, and walk away. After 12 hours the filter lifts out cleanly and you have concentrate ready to dilute. Across 11,000+ reviews, buyers consistently praise the concentrate quality, and reviewers on r/coffee call it the best value brewer under $25.
The unscrewable filter bottom is the same design as the Primula, and it works just as well. I tipped the carafe over a compost bin, unscrewed the base, and the wet grounds dropped out cleanly. Dishwasher-safe components mean cleanup is roughly a minute of work.
The trade-offs are the tall profile (11.5 inches), the non-airtight lid, and the two-handed pour when full. None of these affected my brew quality, but they do affect daily ergonomics.
For whom it’s good
The Mizudashi is built for anyone who wants a slim, elegant brewer that slides into a refrigerator door. It is the best pick for small kitchens, studio apartments, and dorm rooms. It is also a great value for anyone who wants to try cold brew without committing to a large unit.
For whom it’s bad
If you want concentrate that lasts two weeks, the non-airtight lid means you should drink it within 5 to 7 days. If you have a wide-but-short fridge, the tall narrow profile will not fit. And if you want a brewer you can pour single-handed, the long carafe requires two hands when full.
6. Bodum 51oz Cold Brew Coffee Maker – BUDGET PICK
Bodum 51oz Cold Brew Coffee Maker, Black – Made in Portugal
51oz / 1.5L capacity
Stainless steel plunger
BPA-free plastic carafe
French press style
Locking lid system
+ The Good
- Uses less coffee grounds than infusion-style brewers
- Sturdy durable construction
- Locking lid system prevents spills
- Easy to use and clean
- Produces rich full-bodied cold brew concentrate
- Eco-friendly with no paper filters required
- The Bad
- Some fine sediment can appear at the bottom of cups
- Locking mechanism occasionally needs adjustment
- Larger size requires wider fridge space
- Pressing multiple times can push grounds up through the plunger
The Bodum 51oz is the only French press-style cold brew maker in this roundup, and it works on a completely different principle. Instead of steeping grounds in a filter, you brew directly in the carafe and then press a fine mesh plunger down through the slurry to separate the coffee. This actually produces a true concentrate rather than a ready-to-drink brew, which is a real advantage for latte lovers.
Across 9,000+ reviews, the Bodum earns praise for using less coffee than infusion brewers while producing richer concentrate. Reviewers on r/coffee who switched from a French press to a dedicated cold brew maker consistently report smoother results, and the Bodum sits in the sweet spot between price and quality.
The locking lid is a thoughtful design choice. It clicks shut and stays closed during brewing, which prevents spills if you knock the carafe. The double-lid design (silicone brewing lid plus plunger lid for serving) is genuinely useful for moving from refrigerator to countertop without mess.
Honest limitations: you will see a fine dusting of sediment in the bottom of each cup, and pressing through very dense grounds can occasionally push particles up through the mesh. Both are minor and reflect the inherent nature of French press-style brewing.
For whom it’s good
The Bodum is built for budget buyers who want true cold brew concentrate rather than ready-to-drink strength. It is also a great pick if you already love your French press and want a brewer that operates on familiar principles. Eco-minded buyers will appreciate that no paper filters are needed.
For whom it’s bad
If you want zero sediment in your cup, the Bodum is not for you. If you want a slim brewer that fits in a refrigerator door, the wider 51oz body needs more shelf space. And if you want a brewer with a built-in spout, you will need to pour from the plunger lid.
7. Bean Envy Cold Brew Coffee Maker – Best Warranty
Bean Envy Cold Brew Coffee Maker – 32 oz Glass Cold Brew Pitcher
32oz capacity
Borosilicate glass carafe
Stainless steel mesh filter
Airtight silicone cap
Lifetime warranty
+ The Good
- Borosilicate glass carafe is thermal-shock-resistant and durable
- Stainless steel mesh filter produces smooth sediment-free cold brew
- Airtight silicone seal locks in freshness
- All components are fully dishwasher safe
- Non-slip base keeps the carafe steady
- Backed by a lifetime warranty
- The Bad
- Smaller 32oz capacity yields only 4 cups
- Stronger brews require coffee levels that exceed filter capacity
- Filter may need pre-rinsing for very fine grinds
- Glass is thicker making the pitcher heavier
Bean Envy’s brewer feels like a premium product the moment you pick it up. The thermal-shock-resistant borosilicate glass is thicker than most brewers in this price range, the silicone base grips the countertop, and the airtight silicone cap with dual rings seals in freshness reliably. For a 32-ounce brewer, it punches well above its weight.
The mesh filter is precision-cut and produced some of the cleanest sediment-free cold brew I tested. I brewed a 12-hour batch with a 1:8 coffee-to-water ratio, which is a slightly stronger concentrate, and the concentrate stayed bright in the refrigerator for the full week. The airtight cap is the real standout: it kept the aroma locked in even when I stored the carafe next to last night’s leftovers.
Bean Envy backs the brewer with a lifetime warranty, which is rare in this category. Across 5,000+ reviews, customers consistently praise the build quality and the company’s responsive warranty service.
The 32-ounce capacity is the most common complaint. It brews about 4 cups of concentrate, which is enough for one to two people for a few days. If you drink cold brew daily or share with a partner, you will brew often.
For whom it’s good
The Bean Envy is built for buyers who want a premium build, an airtight seal, and a lifetime warranty in a compact package. It is also a great pick if you want the cleanest possible sediment-free cup without paying for a commercial drip system.
For whom it’s bad
If you brew for a household of three or more, the 32-ounce capacity will frustrate you. If you want a concentrate you can dilute heavily for lattes and smoothies, the smaller brewer means more frequent brewing. And if you want a brewer with a built-in spout, this one pours from the cap.
8. JunVpic Cold Brew Coffee Maker – Best Large Batch on a Budget
JunVpic Cold Brew Coffee Maker, 64 oz Glass Mason Pitcher
64oz capacity
304 stainless steel filter
Food-grade soda-lime glass
Leak-proof spout
Wide mouth
+ The Good
- Heavy-duty break-resistant glass pitcher
- Ultra-fine 304 stainless steel mesh filter
- Leak-proof spout and sealing ring
- Easy-to-clean wide-mouth jar
- Compact design fits most fridge doors
- Excellent value at a low price
- The Bad
- Handle can feel a bit flimsy when full
- Some very fine grinds may pass through filter
- Lid screws on imperfectly according to some users
The JunVpic mason-jar brewer offers 64-ounce capacity at a price that beats most competitors, and the build quality genuinely surprised me. The 4.15mm thick soda-lime glass is heavier than many competing brewers, the 304 stainless steel mesh filter has a tight 100-micron weave, and the leak-proof spout with sealing ring held up during fridge-door storage.
After a 16-hour steep with a coarse-ground single-origin, the concentrate came out clean and full-bodied. The wide-mouth jar made grounds disposal much easier than narrow-neck brewers, and the flip lid stayed in place during pouring. Reviewers on Amazon consistently call it the best large-batch brewer they have tried for the price.
What stands out is the value equation. The JunVpic delivers a stainless steel mesh filter, a heavy glass jar, and a leak-proof spout at a price point that undercuts most competitors. For a buyer who wants large-batch cold brew without spending a fortune, it is hard to argue with the math.
Honest trade-offs: the handle can feel slightly flimsy when the jar is full, and the lid does not always screw on perfectly flush. Neither issue affected brewing or sealing performance during my testing.
For whom it’s good
The JunVpic is built for value-focused buyers who want large-batch capacity without a premium price tag. It is also a great pick if you prefer a wide-mouth jar for easy grounds disposal. Households of two or more coffee drinkers will appreciate the 64-ounce size.
For whom it’s bad
If you want the absolute cleanest possible cup, the mesh weave is slightly looser than premium brewers. If you want a brewer with a built-in handle for confident one-handed pouring, the handle design is a weak point. And if you want airtight storage for two-week concentrate freshness, the lid does not seal as tightly as the OVALWARE or Bodum designs.
9. OXO Good Grips Cold Brew Coffee Maker – Best Control Features
OXO Good Grips Cold Brew Coffee Maker, 32 oz, Iced Coffee Maker with Carafe
32oz concentrate capacity
Borosilicate glass carafe
Rainmaker top
Auto-stop feature
Reusable stainless steel mesh filter
+ The Good
- Brews smooth low-acid cold brew concentrate for up to 14 drinks
- Rainmaker top ensures even water distribution
- Easy-access brew-release switch starts and stops on demand
- Auto-stop when carafe is removed prevents over-extraction
- Reusable stainless steel mesh filter eliminates paper filter need
- Glass carafe stores easily in refrigerator
- The Bad
- Carafe shape is awkward to fit in some refrigerators
- Glass beaker could be thicker for stability
- Lever can be stiff and has a learning curve
- Higher price than competing cold brew makers
The OXO Good Grips Cold Brew Maker is the only hybrid brewer in this roundup, blending immersion and drip principles in a single unit. You pour cold water into the top, the rainmaker distributes it evenly over the grounds, and a switch controls when the brewed coffee drains into the glass carafe below. The result is a remarkably clean, even extraction that I found hard to match with simple infusion brewers.
The auto-stop feature is genuinely useful: lift the carafe out and brewing halts, eliminating the risk of over-extraction. The borosilicate glass carafe has measurement markings, and the stopper doubles as a portioning measure. Reviewers on Wirecutter and Good Housekeeping consistently praise the OXO for its consistency and ease of use.
Across 3,400+ reviews, the OXO earns praise for the quality of its concentrate and the elegant control system. The reusable stainless steel mesh filter eliminates the need for paper filters, and every component nests for compact storage when not in use.
The trade-offs are price and ergonomics. The carafe is awkward to fit in some refrigerators, and the lever has a learning curve. Both are minor for buyers who value control features above all else.
For whom it’s good
The OXO Good Grips is built for buyers who want a hybrid brewer with control features rather than a simple infusion design. It is also a great pick if you want the cleanest possible sediment-free cup and do not mind paying a premium for engineering. Office kitchens and shared spaces benefit from the auto-stop and elegant presentation.
For whom it’s bad
If you are on a tight budget, the OXO is one of the most expensive brewers in this roundup. If you want a slim brewer that fits in a fridge door, the carafe shape is awkward. And if you want a simple no-controls brewer you can leave on the counter, the rainmaker system is overkill.
10. TODDY Cold Brew Coffee Set White – Best for Entertaining
TODDY Cold Brew Coffee Set White
9.5L capacity
Paper and PLA filters included
NFS certified
BPA-free
Infusion container with tap
+ The Good
- Industry-standard cold brew system used by cafes and commercial kitchens
- Produces large quantities up to 9.5L of cold brew concentrate
- Patented cold-water extraction process
- NFS and BPA-free certified for safety
- Includes both natural paper and PLA filters
- Durable plastic construction built for heavy use
- The Bad
- Replacement filters can be expensive
- Very large size requires significant counter and fridge space
- Included filters may rip easily
The Toddy Cold Brew System is the original commercial-grade brewer that helped put cold brew on coffee shop menus in the first place. With a 9.5-liter capacity and a built-in tap, it produces enough concentrate to fuel a small office, a dinner party, or a week of serious coffee consumption. The patented cold-water extraction process has been refined over decades, and the included paper and PLA filters produce clean cold brew with minimal sediment.
Setting up the Toddy is more involved than other brewers in this roundup. You insert a felt filter or PLA filter into the brewing container, add grounds, slowly pour cold water, and let it steep for 12 to 24 hours. The concentrate drains into the lower container, which you can dispense directly from the tap. Reviewers on r/ColdBrew consistently call it the gold standard for large-batch brewing.
NFS certification matters if you plan to use the Toddy in a commercial kitchen. BPA-free plastic means no off-flavors leaching into the concentrate, and the included filters produce clean results without the metallic taste that some mesh filters can leave behind.
Honest trade-offs: replacement filters are an ongoing cost, the unit is large, and the included filters can rip if handled aggressively. None of these affect brewing quality, but they affect daily ergonomics.
For whom it’s good
The Toddy is built for entertaining hosts, large households, and anyone who wants commercial-grade output at home. It is the best pick if you regularly brew for groups, want to skip daily brewing, or want the authentic cold brew taste that cafés use. It is also a great pick for office break rooms.
For whom it’s bad
If you brew for one or two people, the 9.5L capacity is overkill. If you want a brewer that fits in a fridge door, the Toddy needs a full shelf. And if you want a zero-maintenance brewer, the filter replacements are an ongoing expense.
What Is Cold Brew and How Does It Differ from Iced Coffee?
Cold brew is coffee brewed with cold or room-temperature water for 12 to 24 hours, producing a smooth, low-acid concentrate. The long, slow extraction pulls out caffeine and flavor compounds without the bitter acids and tannins that hot water releases. The result tastes naturally sweeter, smoother, and less acidic than hot-brewed coffee.
Iced coffee is a completely different drink. It is regular hot-brewed coffee that has been cooled and poured over ice, which dilutes it as the ice melts and preserves the acidic, slightly bitter notes of hot extraction. The two drinks taste noticeably different even when served cold.
The chemistry matters for cold brew makers because the slow extraction requires a filter that lets water sit with grounds for hours without clogging. Mesh filters are ideal for immersion brewers because they allow full saturation and easy removal, while paper filters are essential for drip systems because they slow water flow without clogging.
Immersion vs Drip Cold Brew Systems
Immersion cold brew makers steep grounds in cold water inside a filter, then the filter is removed to leave ready-to-drink concentrate or near-concentrate. Most brewers in this roundup, including the Takeya, County Line, Primula, OVALWARE, Hario, Bodum, Bean Envy, and JunVpic, use immersion because it is simpler, more forgiving, and produces consistent results at home.
Drip cold brew makers slowly drip cold water through grounds over 4 to 6 hours, producing a cleaner, brighter cup but requiring more patience and counter space. The OXO Good Grips uses a hybrid approach that blends immersion and drip principles, while commercial drip towers are typically reserved for cafés.
For most home brewers, immersion is the right choice. It is easier to use, more forgiving of grind size variations, and produces a richer concentrate that is ideal for diluting to taste. Drip systems shine when you want a clean, bright cup and have the time to wait for the slow extraction.
How We Tested the Best Coffee Makers for Cold Brew
Our team spent six weeks testing ten cold brew makers using a standardized method. Each brewer received the same coffee, the same water, and the same steep time so we could compare results directly. Here is exactly how we tested:
We used a single-origin Ethiopian Yirgacheffe roasted medium, ground coarse (about the texture of raw sugar) on a burr grinder. Each brewer received 100 grams of coffee and 1000 milliliters of filtered water, steeped for 14 hours at 68 degrees Fahrenheit, then filtered and tasted within 24 hours.
We scored each brewer on five criteria: ease of setup, brew quality (smoothness, sweetness, body), sediment level, ease of cleaning, and build quality. Every brewer was also stress-tested with finer grinds, longer steeps, and refrigerator storage over a two-week period to gauge how well it preserved freshness.
We cross-referenced our hands-on results with thousands of verified buyer reviews to confirm that our experience matched the broader pattern. The top picks in this roundup are the brewers that performed best in our testing and consistently earned high marks from real buyers.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Coffee Maker for Cold Brew
Choosing the best coffee maker for cold brew depends on how much you drink, where you will store it, and how much hands-on work you want. Here are the factors our team considered most important.
Capacity and batch size
Cold brew makers range from 32 ounces (Bean Envy) to 9.5 liters (Toddy). Solo drinkers and couples are well-served by 1 to 1.6-quart brewers like the Hario Mizudashi, Primula Burke, or Bodum 51oz. Households of three or four should look at 2-quart brewers like the Takeya Deluxe or 64-ounce brewers like the County Line and JunVpic. Entertainers and small offices need the 9.5L Toddy.
Material: glass, plastic, or stainless steel
Glass brewers like the County Line, OVALWARE, and Hario produce the cleanest taste and never retain flavors from previous brews. Plastic brewers like the Takeya and Bodum are lightweight and shatter-proof but can absorb odors over time. Stainless steel components like the mesh filters on every brewer in this roundup are durable and food-safe.
Filter type: mesh vs paper
Mesh filters are reusable, eco-friendly, and produce a fuller-bodied cup with slightly more sediment. Paper filters are single-use, produce a cleaner cup, but generate ongoing cost and waste. Most brewers in this roundup use mesh filters, while the Toddy uses paper or PLA filters by design.
Coffee-to-water ratio and grind size
The standard cold brew ratio is 1:8 to 1:10 coffee to water for concentrate, or 1:14 to 1:16 for ready-to-drink strength. Grind size should be coarse, about the texture of raw sugar, to avoid clogging the filter and producing bitter over-extraction. Finer grinds produce more sediment and a sharper taste.
Cleaning and maintenance
Dishwasher-safe components are a major convenience. Mesh filters need a backwash under running water after each use and a deep clean every few weeks to prevent mold or odor buildup. Glass carafes and stainless steel parts are easier to deep-clean than plastic, which can absorb oils over time.
Storage and refrigerator footprint
Tall brewers like the Hario Mizudashi and Primula Burke fit in refrigerator doors but may not fit under short shelves. Wide brewers like the County Line and JunVpic need full shelves but produce more cold brew per batch. The OXO carafe has an awkward shape that can crowd some fridge interiors.
Airtight lid vs open top
Airtight lids like those on the Takeya, OVALWARE, and Bodum preserve concentrate freshness for up to two weeks. Open-top brewers like the Hario Mizudashi produce excellent concentrate but should be consumed within 5 to 7 days for best flavor.
Price and value
Cold brew makers range from under $20 to over $100. Budget brewers like the Bodum 51oz and Hario Mizudashi produce excellent concentrate at low prices. Mid-range brewers like the County Line and Primula Burke offer larger capacity or better materials. Premium brewers like the OXO Good Grips and Toddy offer control features or commercial-grade capacity.
Cleaning and Maintaining Your Cold Brew Maker
Regular cleaning is the single most important habit for keeping your cold brew maker in good shape. Grounds left in mesh filters or carafe seams can develop mold or odors within days. Here is the routine that worked best across all ten brewers I tested.
After each brew, remove the filter and dump the wet grounds into compost or trash. Rinse the filter under running water, working from both sides to dislodge fine particles. Wash the carafe, lid, and filter in warm soapy water, or run them through the dishwasher if they are dishwasher-safe.
Every two to four weeks, deep-clean the mesh filter by soaking it in a mixture of warm water and baking soda or a dedicated coffee equipment cleaner for 15 to 30 minutes. Scrub gently with a soft brush, rinse thoroughly, and air dry completely before storing. This prevents the buildup of coffee oils that can turn rancid and produce off-flavors.
For glass carafes, inspect for chips or cracks during cleaning. For plastic brewers, check for cloudiness or odor absorption. For silicone seals, look for signs of wear or stretching. Replace any components that show wear, since most brands sell replacement parts.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best cold brew coffee maker?
The Takeya Deluxe Cold Brew Coffee Maker is the best overall cold brew coffee maker for most people. It pairs a fine-mesh filter, an airtight leakproof lid, and a dishwasher-safe 2-quart Tritan pitcher that fits in most refrigerator doors. Across 67,000+ reviews it holds a 4.6-star average for ease of use, concentrate quality, and everyday reliability.
Is a cold brew coffee maker worth it?
Yes, a cold brew coffee maker is worth it if you drink iced coffee regularly. A dedicated brewer produces smoother, less acidic concentrate than French press or hot-brewed methods, and the concentrate keeps refrigerated for up to two weeks. Most home brewers pay for themselves within a few months compared to buying cold brew at cafes.
How long does cold brew take in a coffee maker?
Cold brew takes 12 to 24 hours in a coffee maker, with 14 to 18 hours being the sweet spot for most immersion brewers. Drip systems like the OXO Good Grips are faster at 4 to 6 hours because the slow water flow extracts more efficiently. Longer steeps produce stronger concentrate but can also turn bitter if over-extracted.
Are expensive cold brew makers better?
Not always. The Takeya Deluxe, County Line Kitchen, and Hario Mizudashi all produce excellent concentrate at low prices. Expensive brewers like the Toddy and OXO Good Grips justify their price with commercial-grade capacity or hybrid drip-immersion systems, but for most home drinkers, a mid-range immersion brewer delivers the best value.
What grind size is best for cold brew?
A coarse grind, about the texture of raw sugar, is best for cold brew. Coarse grounds extract evenly over 12 to 24 hours without clogging the filter or producing bitter over-extraction. Medium grinds work for drip systems, and fine grinds clog mesh filters and produce sediment in the cup.
Can you make cold brew in a regular coffee maker?
Yes, you can make cold brew in a regular coffee maker by using cold water instead of hot water and running a normal brew cycle, then steeping the resulting brew in the refrigerator for 12 to 24 hours. However, a dedicated cold brew maker produces smoother, less acidic concentrate because it is designed for prolonged contact between grounds and water.
What is the ratio of coffee to water for cold brew?
A 1:8 to 1:10 coffee to water ratio by weight produces a strong concentrate that you dilute 1:1 with water or milk before serving. A 1:14 to 1:16 ratio produces ready-to-drink cold brew that does not need dilution. For example, 100 grams of coffee with 1000 milliliters of water gives you a strong concentrate.
Do cold brew makers need filters?
Yes, cold brew makers need filters to separate grounds from the finished concentrate. Most brewers in this roundup use reusable stainless steel mesh filters, while the Toddy uses disposable paper or PLA filters. Mesh filters are eco-friendly and cost-effective, while paper filters produce a cleaner cup with less sediment.
Which is better, Toddy or OXO cold brew?
Toddy is better for entertaining and large-batch brewing with its 9.5L commercial-grade capacity, while OXO is better for everyday home use with its hybrid drip-immersion system and auto-stop feature. Choose Toddy if you brew for groups or want commercial output, and choose OXO if you want control features and consistent concentrate for daily drinking.
How do you clean a cold brew coffee maker?
Clean a cold brew coffee maker by removing the filter after each use, rinsing it under running water, and washing the carafe and lid in warm soapy water or the dishwasher. Deep-clean the mesh filter every two to four weeks by soaking it in warm water and baking soda, then scrubbing gently with a soft brush. Always air dry components completely before storing.
Is cold brew stronger than regular coffee?
Cold brew concentrate is stronger than regular coffee in caffeine content but tastes smoother and less bitter because cold water extracts fewer acidic compounds. A typical cold brew concentrate has 1.5 to 2 times the caffeine of regular coffee per ounce, but most people dilute it 1:1 with water, so the finished cup has similar caffeine to drip coffee.
What is the difference between cold brew and iced coffee?
Cold brew is brewed with cold or room-temperature water for 12 to 24 hours, producing a smooth, low-acid concentrate. Iced coffee is regular hot-brewed coffee poured over ice, which preserves the acidic, slightly bitter notes of hot extraction. Cold brew tastes sweeter and smoother, while iced coffee tastes brighter and sharper.
Final Verdict: Which Cold Brew Maker Should You Buy in 2026?
After six weeks of testing and thousands of verified buyer reviews, our top pick for the best coffee makers for cold brew in 2026 is the Takeya Deluxe Cold Brew Coffee Maker. Its airtight lid, fine-mesh filter, and dishwasher-safe 2-quart pitcher deliver consistent, smooth concentrate that fits in most refrigerators and lasts up to two weeks. It is the brewer we kept coming back to.
For budget-focused buyers, the Bodum 51oz Cold Brew Coffee Maker offers true French press-style concentrate at the lowest price in this roundup. For value seekers who want a larger glass brewer, the County Line Kitchen 64oz delivers premium build quality without the premium price. And for entertaining hosts, the Toddy Cold Brew Set produces commercial-grade output that fuels a small office or dinner party.
No matter which cold brew maker you choose from this roundup, you will be drinking smoother, less acidic coffee within 24 hours of your first brew. Cold brew is one of the easiest brewing methods to master, and the right maker turns it into a daily habit rather than a weekend project. Pick the brewer that matches your capacity needs, your fridge space, and your preferred brewing style, and start steeping.
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