Top 7 Iced Coffee Machines of 2023: Expert Reviews
On those blazing summer days, there's a certain magic in sipping a chilled glass of iced coffee to combat the mid-afternoon lethargy. However, frequently indulging in this luxury can quickly become an expensive habit, with some costing over five dollars a pop.
The solution? Perfecting the art of making iced coffee at home. Whether you have a penchant for a mellow cold brew or have a soft spot for indulgent iced caramel frappes, we've got you covered. Dive into our comprehensive guide featuring the top seven iced coffee makers to craft cafe-quality beverages in the comfort of your own kitchen.
The secret to a mesmerizing coffee experience, whether hot or iced, lies in your equipment. That's why the dedicated team at Life Boost invested the sultry summer months meticulously evaluating a myriad of iced coffee machines. After rigorous testing and retesting, we've curated a list of our top 7 standouts.
1. Ninja Hot And Cold Brewed System
The Ninja Hot and Cold Brewed System is a beverage machine that stands out as the best choice, for those seeking to make delicious iced coffee. With its 50 ounce glass carafe it can easily cater to individual servings or become the centerpiece for serving coffee to a larger group. Designed with a combination of glass and plastic materials the Ninja Hot and Cold Brewed System measures 10.01″D x 11.81″W x 15″H making it a great option for optimizing kitchen space.
This advanced system does not only brew coffee but lso includes dual filters specifically designed for tea and coffee ensuring that brewing tea or cold brew coffee is effortless without any flavors mixing.
One unique feature of this coffee maker is the "Over Ice" and "Cold Brew" options. The "Over Ice" option creates a coffee concentrate for making traditional iced coffee. On the other hand the "Cold Brew" option steep coffee without heat resulting in a sweeter flavor profile. Both methods require filling the brewing vessel with ice cubes.
The Ninja Hot and Cold Brewed System differentiates itself from its competitors by offering an integrated milk frother that conveniently fits into the side of the machine. With a press of a button you can effortlessly create foam for your iced latte. This compact design is especially advantageous, for smaller kitchens as it eliminates the need for additional appliances storage.
In addition to its functionality Ninja provides a variety of captivating tea and coffee recipes, including the toasted coconut mocha brew and the timeless classic iced London Fog. This drip coffee maker ensures a satisfying beverage experience.
2. Bodum Chambord French Press
The Bodum Chambord French Press has a size that's ideal for kitchens with limited counter space. Measuring at 9 inches tall and 5.5 inches in diameter it neatly fits into any cupboard or cabinet after brewing.
What sets apart the Bodum Chambord French Press on our list is its versatility thanks to its 34 ounce capacity. Made from steel and borosilicate glass this press not only excels in delivering delicious iced coffee but also offers exceptional performance overall.
Not only can it make hot French press coffee and flavorful cold brew but it also has the ability to froth both hot and cold milk adding a touch of barista expertise to your homemade coffee.
This classic coffee press is designed for simplicity and easy maintenance. It features a steel plate and filter along with a borosilicate glass which has a brewing chamber. Whether you choose a chrome or a muted matte chrome finish you can confidently clean all the components in the dishwasher.
The Bodum Chambord French Press truly excels when it comes to making coffee. By brewing a batch of French press coffee and pouring it over ice you can enjoy a subtly sweet iced coffee. It's robust enough to be enjoyed on its own or as the base for frappes.
Despite its range of functions this coffee press has a compact size that is perfect for kitchens with limited counter space. Measuring 9 inches in height and 5.5 inches, in diameter it easily fits into any cupboard or cabinet once you're done brewing.
3. Keurig K-Elite Coffee Maker
The Keurig K Elite Coffee Maker perfectly combines functionality and design making it our top choice, for the best Keurig coffee maker. It's great for single servings and Is considered to be one of the best overall Keurig coffee machines due to its ability to brew both hot and iced coffee.
By switching between the "Over Ice'' or "Strong Brew" options you can easily achieve your desired coffee strength. Whether you prefer ice cubes or coffee infused ice cubes the K Elite ensures an excellent experience when making iced coffee. With over 300 different flavors available, ranging from creamy caramel vanilla to salty butter toffee there's a flavor option that will satisfy everyone's taste buds.
The K Elite isn't just a coffee maker; it also promises quality with every cup. Keurig includes a water filter, with descaling alerts ensuring your coffee is always fresh and delicious.. Additionally, the machine provides flexibility in adjusting the water temperature from 187 to 192 degrees F, considering that different coffees extract better at varying temperatures.
Sporting a capacity of 12 oz, the K-Elite is constructed with a blend of plastic and metal, resulting in a durable yet elegant design. Measuring 9.9 "D X 13.1 "W X 12.7 "H, it features a brushed metal finish complemented by chrome details. This striking combination makes the K-Elite a powerful coffee maker and a stylish addition to any kitchen countertop.
4. Hario V60 Fretta Iced Coffee Brewer
The Iced Coffee Brewer offers a superior brewing experience, fitting perfectly into your kitchen, especially if you're working with a limited budget. The Fretta carries over the defining feature of its well-known sibling, the Hario V60, in its 02 dripper cone. However, it adds a unique twist with interior ridges that ensure uniform extraction of coffee from the bottom and the sides.
Constructed from heat-proof glass and polypropylene, the 23.67 oz. Capacity brewer is designed with a meticulous water distributor that guarantees even dripping over the ice. The innovative ice insert cools the coffee efficiently without diluting its intense flavor.
The resulting brew from the V60 Fretta is a vibrant, sweet, and silky coffee. While it doesn't quite match the smoothness of a traditional cold brew, it retains all the various complexity its original roast. This brings forth a refreshing cold coffee that's far from being flat, offering a multi-dimensional flavor experience that's truly satisfying in every sip.
This versatile brewer doesn't just stop at iced coffee. It also allows for the preparation of pour-over hot coffee. The brewing process remains the same, except you'll be brewing directly into the carafe, bypassing the use of the ice insert.
When it comes to maintenance, the glass carafe is dishwasher-friendly. The other components require a gentle touch and are best cleaned with a non-abrasive sponge and a mild detergent. With dimensions of 6.18" X 9.96" X 5.43", the Hario V60 Fretta offers both functionality and compactness, making it a valuable addition to any coffee lover's kitchen.
5. Vinci Express Electric Cold Brew Coffee Maker
The Vinci Express Electric Cold Brew Coffee Maker revolutionizes the cold brew process, solving the age-old problem of having to wait for 12 hours to enjoy a robust, chilled coffee. With a generous capacity of 37 oz, the Vinci Express allows coffee enthusiasts to prepare large amounts of their favorite cold brew in a relatively short time - a mere 5 to 25 minutes.
This cold brew coffee maker, skillfully crafted from sturdy borosilicate glass and durable plastic, measures a compact 4 inches in diameter, 7 inches in width, and 12 inches in height. Its compact dimensions make it the perfect fit for any kitchen, no matter the size.
The Vinci Express offers the unique benefit of customizable brew strength, giving you a range of choices from light to extra-bold. A light brew, ready in just five minutes, offers a refreshing coffee that traditionally takes 16 hours to produce. The medium brew, prepared in ten minutes, delivers a stronger coffee, while the bold and extra-bold options take 15 and 25 minutes, respectively, to produce a powerful cold brew or a concentrated version that can be diluted according to personal taste.
The patented Circle Flow technology is at the heart of the Vinci Express's efficiency. This cutting-edge technology ensures a gentle, consistent flow of water through the coffee bed, resulting in a sediment-free cold brew or concentrate that is perfect for a standalone beverage or as a base for other iced coffee creations.
Above all, the Vinci Express achieves a harmonious equilibrium between speed and flavor, brewing a cold brew that is rich, sweet, and silky smooth. After brewing, the carafe can be sealed with the serving lid, and the cold brew can be stored in the refrigerator for up to ten days, ensuring that you always have a fresh and cool coffee treat on hand. Moreover, the Vinci Express's self-cleaning feature guarantees that your machine remains free from coffee grounds, promoting longevity and enhancing your brewing experience.
6. Mr. Coffee Hot And Iced Coffee Maker
This Coffee Maker is your quintessential companion for satisfying both your hot and cold brew cravings. The seamless integration of its versatile functions makes it a standout among its peers. With a noteworthy capacity of 22 ounces, this coffee maker caters to both individual and shared coffee moments.
Although the materials used are not specified, the coffee maker's robust performance is unquestionable. It accommodates a variety of coffee enthusiasts with its extensive brew options, featuring both iced and hot coffee. The brewing process is simple and swift, taking only three to four minutes to deliver a refreshing iced coffee or a piping hot cup of joe.
The dimensions of the product are 7″D x 10″W x 16″H, making it a compact and space-saving addition to your kitchen. Its design is enhanced by the "Over Ice" feature, a unique brew cycle that starts with pre-infusion or bloom and then transitions into steady brewing directly into an ice-filled tumbler.
In terms of user-friendly additions, the Mr. Coffee Hot And Iced Coffee Maker comes with a reusable filter and a dual-sided measuring scoop, simplifying the brewing process. The package also includes a to-go coffee tumbler, equipped with helpful "Ice" and "Water" fill lines to ensure the perfect brew ratio every time. Cleanup is a breeze, with all components (except the base) being dishwasher-safe on the top rack. This coffee machine is a testament to Mr. Coffee's commitment to convenience and quality in one sleek package.
7. Yama Glass Cold Brew And Iced Coffee Maker
This Coffee Maker is a top-tier choice for coffee lovers, priding itself as the most efficient drip iced coffee maker. This elegantly designed coffee maker is a blend of aesthetics and functionality, offering a captivating sight as it brews your coffee. Crafted from authentic wood and hand-blown borosilicate glass, it embodies a sublime combination of tradition and modernity.
Its capacity to brew 32 ounces of cold coffee in a significantly reduced timeframe of three to four hours, unlike the average of 12 hours. The brewing process is straightforward - fill the topmost compartment with ice and water, add medium-grind coffee to the brewer, regulate the flow rate using the valve, and watch as your cold brew materializes in the glass carafe.
With its impressive dimensions of 12 inches in width and 25.4 inches in height, this coffee maker demands space and attention. So, keep in mind your available counter space before you bring it home. Nonetheless, if you can accommodate it, it promises an exceptional cold brew experience. The end product is a rich, smooth, and low-acidity cold brew with a depth of flavor that surpasses the standard immersion cold brew, às Augusto Carneiro, CEO of Nossa Familia coffee company, notes.
But the Yama Glass Cold Brew Coffee Maker isn't restricted to brewing coffee alone. It offers a versatile brewing experience, allowing you to experiment with iced teas and infused alcoholic beverages. So, you can refresh your taste buds with a variety of beverages.
However, maintaining this coffee maker does require a bit more effort. It necessitates hand washing with a mild detergent and a gentle sponge. Besides, immediate and thorough drying of all parts - the beakers, the carafe, and the wooden frame - is crucial to keep it in top shape.
Method For Selecting the Best Iced Coffee Maker
Before darting off to purchase your inaugural iced coffee maker, it's important to know what criteria to keep in mind. This guide is here to walk you through the critical elements you should be considering.
The Debate: Iced Coffee versus Cold Brew
Our compilation includes machines capable of brewing both iced coffee and cold brew. However, a clear distinction exists between these two beverages.
Traditional iced coffee is brewed similarly to regular hot coffee but is then served over ice. The brewing process is often intensified to balance the inevitable dilution from the melting ice cubes. Conversely, cold brew coffee is steeped at room temperature or colder, never coming into contact with water above 74 degrees F.
Despite utilizing the same beans, these distinct brewing methods yield contrasting flavor profiles. According to Tobias Anderson of Barista Magazine, traditional iced coffee maintains a complex flavor profile akin to its hot coffee counterpart. If you're seeking to retain the intricate floral notes in your newly purchased Ethiopian coffee beans, iced coffee might be the preferred choice.
In the case of cold brew, the extended brewing time coupled with the cold extraction process produces a sweet, gentle cup often teeming with notes of chocolate and nuts. For those who favor a smooth, low-acidity beverage, cold brew coffee could be your ideal brewing method.
When deciding on an iced coffee maker, consider the device's capacity, the materials from which it's constructed, the brewing options it provides, and its dimensions to ensure it fits perfectly in your kitchen space. Each of these factors plays a significant role in the overall performance and convenience of the device, impacting your daily coffee brewing experience.
Considering Size and Volume
The capacity of your iced coffee maker is an essential aspect to contemplate. It's critical to determine whether you require a brewer capable of serving just you or one that can cater to a group of guests or your entire family.
Despite the typical single coffee serving being six ounces, most people tend to consume more in one sitting. Consequently, a 32-ounce coffee brewer might only yield two to three cups of refreshing iced coffee. The optimal size of your coffee maker should also take into consideration the storage space available in your kitchen.
For homes with limited counter space, a slender form factor is the best choice, capable of fitting snugly in a corner or being stowed away in a cupboard. A flexible coffee maker, such as the Bodum Chambord, offers the greatest value for both your budget and spatial constraints.
Material Matters
The material of your coffee maker is another important aspect to consider. For those with investigative pets or little ones who are prone to climbing counters, a glass coffee maker might not be the most prudent choice. Although borosilicate glass can enhance the flavor of your brew, the potential for broken shards scattered across your kitchen floor could outweigh the benefits of taste.
While most coffee makers feature glass carafes, alternatives are available, such as French presses with stainless steel carafes. These alternatives offer the same adaptability but with the added perk of increased longevity. Plastic options, such as the Keurig and Gourmia iced coffee makers, are also available.
However, there are valid concerns with Keurig's products. While their machines are durable and budget-friendly, some users are wary of the potential for hot brewing water to leach plastic into their beverages.
Considering Size and Quantity
One essential aspect to look into is the volume your coffee maker can handle. Do you intend to produce a single serving of iced coffee, or is your goal to create a larger batch for hosting guests or satisfy a family of coffee enthusiasts? A typical coffee serving is six ounces, though most individuals prefer more than that per cup. This means that a 32-ounce coffee brewer may only cater to two or three cups of refreshing iced coffee.
Your coffee machine's ideal volume also hinges on your storage plan. If your kitchen is short on counter space, a sleek design that can comfortably fit into a corner or be stored in a cabinet might be your best bet. A flexible coffee machine, like the Bodum Chambord, could offer the best value in terms of both finances and spatial efficiency.
Additionally, materials used in the coffee maker's construction play a pivotal role. Look for durable, food-safe materials that can withstand the test of time and usage. The availability of various brew options is another key factor. Depending on your preference for strength and flavor, a versatile brewing system that allows for customization will be ideal.
Materials
When you're deciding on a coffee maker it's important to think about the materials used. If you have kids or pets who like to explore your countertops a glass coffee maker might not be the choice because it could break and leave shards on your kitchen floor.
Luckily there are alternatives in the market such as coffee makers with stainless steel carafes. These options offer the versatility as glass ones and they come with added durability.
Plastic coffee makers have also become popular like the Keurig and Gourmia coffee makers. While these machines are durable and budget friendly some people worry about hot water leaching plastic into their drink, which can affect both safety and taste.
Exploring Brew Alternatives
There's a range of options to explore in the world of coffee making that're worth considering. Do you enjoy the taste of coffee or do you prefer having a wide range of brewing options? While most machines that can brew over ice can also make coffee a dedicated cold brew coffee maker tends to focus on perfecting its craft.
Think about your routine, for making coffee; Is it a meditative morning ritual or more of a necessity? Machines that use pod based brewing methods, like the Keurig K Elite are great for people with schedules.
However devices like the Vinci Express or the Yama Glass cold brew coffee tower are worth considering if you appreciate the therapeutic process of brewing. These appliances allow you to immerse yourself in the experience and create a satisfying brew to start your day.
The Final Takeaway
To sum it up this selection showcases some of the iced coffee makers that have made an impact this year. Whether you're looking for a machine specifically designed for coffee, a cold brew coffee tower or an all in one solution we've got you covered. If you're someone who loves ice coffee we have a coffee machine that will meet all your requirements. Our top choice is the Ninja Hot and Cold Brew System. It's not about being versatile and easy to use; it also includes a milk frother making it perfect for creating a variety of delicious specialty coffee drinks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is It Possible to Prepare Iced Coffee Using Any Coffee Maker?
Yes it is possible to make coffee with any coffee maker by brewing a batch and pouring it over ice. However there are coffee makers specifically designed for making coffee that can simplify the process more with specialized settings for brewing robust blends. It's not as simple as adding coffee grounds to your regular drip coffee maker; these machines use a slower brewing method to extract flavors better and produce a bolder brew.
Should I Consider Investing in a Cold Brew Coffee Maker?
Absolutely! Investing in a cold brew coffee maker can be highly beneficial. For those who frequently enjoy brew there is no investment, then getting a dedicated machine designed specifically for this purpose.Many coffee makers come with built-in filters, automated brewing processes and carafes that are specifically designed for optimizing the cold brew method. Additionally using a cold brew coffee maker allows you to keep your press or Aeropress exclusively for your hot morning coffee routine.
How Can I Use An Aeropress to Make Cold Brew Coffee?
Converting your Aeropress into a cold brew coffee maker is simpler than you might expect. Start by adding 30 grams of coffee grounds to your inverted Aeropress. Then pour in 132 grams of room temperature water. Give it a stir. Let this mixture steep for 24 hours. After the steeping period;
- Carefully flip the Aeropress over a mug.
- Press down
- Enjoy your brew.
Can I Use a Plastic Coffee Maker Without Compromising The Flavor or Safety of My Drink?
Absolutely! While there have been concerns about water potentially causing plastic to leach into beverages, modern coffee makers adhere to safety standards. They are made with BPA plastic to ensure the safety and quality of your drink. However if you still have concerns you can opt for coffee makers that come with steel or glass carafes instead.
What Material Coffee Maker is Recommended For Households with Young Children or Pets?
Stainless steel carafes are recommended for households with young children or pets. They offer the same versatility as glass carafes but with added durability. A coffee maker equipped with a stainless steel carafe is less likely to break if it gets knocked off the counter, reducing the risk of injury.
Is There a Coffee Maker That Offers Both Speed and Rich Flavor?
Yes, there are several options on the market that combine speed with flavor extraction. Machines employing pod-based brewing methods, such as the Keurig K-Elite, are perfect for those on a tight schedule. The Vinci Express and the Yama Glass cold brew coffee tower are excellent choices for those who cherish the unhurried ritual of brewing. They offer immersion in brewing and produce a rich, satisfying brew.