The KitchenAid KF8 Cold Brew Coffee Maker and machines from Jura serve entirely different coffee drinkers, differing fundamentally in function, price, and brewing method. The KitchenAid KF8 is a simple, sub-$200 manual device designed exclusively for making cold brew coffee concentrate, while Jura machines are high-end automatic models that grind beans and prepare espresso, lattes, and other specialty coffees at the push of a button.
Here's everything you need to know about these two distinct approaches to at-home coffee to help you decide which one fits your routine and budget.
KitchenAid KF8 Cold Brew Coffee Maker
The KitchenAid KF8 is a straightforward and stylish solution for anyone who loves the smooth, low-acid taste of cold brew coffee. Stripping away complex machinery, it focuses on one task - steeping coffee grounds in cold water - and does it well. Its classic retro design, compact size, and user-friendly tap make it a popular addition to kitchens where simplicity and aesthetics are valued.
- What it is: A manual, non-electric coffee maker designed for brewing cold brew concentrate by steeping coffee grounds for 12-24 hours.
- Key features: Glass carafe, reusable stainless steel steeper, built-in tap for easy dispensing, compact footprint, typically a 38 oz. capacity.
- Price: Around $150 to $200.
- Style: Retro-modern with the signature KitchenAid aesthetic, available in various colors to complement other brand appliances.
- Materials/Construction: Built with a combination of durable BPA-free plastic, a glass brewing carafe, and stainless steel components like the steeper and tap.
- Pros: Very affordable entry point into home brewing. Simple, intuitive process with no learning curve. Compact and easy to store in the refrigerator. Easy to disassemble and clean by hand. Produces smooth, delicious cold brew concentrate.
- Cons: Limited to making only cold brew coffee - it cannot brew hot coffee or espresso. Entirely manual process that requires advance planning (12+ hours). Build is solid for the price but lacks the premium feel of high-end machines.
The KitchenAid KF8 is ideal for cold brew devotees looking for an attractive, dependable, and budget-friendly device that excels at its single, specialized function.
Shop this product: kitchenaid.com/countertop-appliances/coffee-products/coffee-makers
Jura Automatic Coffee Machines
Jura is a premium Swiss brand that makes some of the world's most sophisticated bean-to-cup automatic coffee machines. These devices are for coffee connoisseurs who crave barista-quality drinks at home without the work. A Jura machine handles every step of the process - from grinding fresh whole beans to frothing milk - to deliver a perfect cappuccino, latte, or espresso in seconds at the touch of a button.
- What it is: A high-end, fully automatic, bean-to-cup machine that prepares a wide variety of specialty coffee drinks.
- Key features: Integrated high-precision grinders, one-touch brewing for 10+ different drinks, customizable settings for strength and temperature, automatic milk frothing systems, intelligent water systems, and automated cleaning cycles.
- Price: Premium pricing, typically ranging from $1,000 to over $3,000.
- Style: Sleek, minimalist, and modern European design, often featuring a professional look with stainless steel, chrome, and high-gloss black finishes.
- Materials/Construction: Engineered with premium materials, including stainless steel accents, thick high-grade plastics, and precision internal components designed for thousands of brewing cycles.
- Pros: Unmatched convenience with true one-touch brewing from bean to cup. Barista-level quality and consistency. Enormous variety of drink options. Superb build quality and long-term durability. Built-in grinder ensures maximum freshness.
- Cons: Extremely expensive compared to any manual brewer. Larger footprint that requires dedicated counter space. Requires specific maintenance, including cleaning tablets and water filters, adding to the running cost. Does not make traditional cold brew.
Jura machines are for those who view coffee as a daily ritual and are willing to make a significant investment for ultimate convenience and exceptional quality across a wide range of drinks.
Shop this product: shop.jura.com
KitchenAid KF8 vs. Jura Comparison
Functionality & Use Case
The most important distinction is what these products actually do. The KitchenAid KF8 is a single-task device: it steeps coarse coffee grounds in cold water over a long period to create cold brew concentrate. It is an entirely manual, non-electric process.
In contrast, a Jura machine is an all-in-one coffee station. It automatically grinds beans on demand, tamps the grounds, pressure-brews hot espresso or coffee, froths milk, and dispenses a finished specialty drink in about a minute. One makes a single type of cold coffee that requires a day of prep, the other makes dozens of intricate hot (and sometimes iced) coffee drinks instantly.
Materials & Construction
KitchenAid builds their cold brew maker with quality consumer-grade materials like BPA-free plastic and glass, designed for reliability in a home kitchen. It feels solid and well-made for its price point and comes with a standard 1-year warranty.
Jura operates in a different league entirely, using high-end stainless steel, premium thermo-plastics, and precision-engineered Swiss brewing components. The quality is immediately apparent in the weight, fit, and finish, reflecting a machine designed to last for years and thousands of uses. Jura typically backs this with a 2-year warranty.
Price & Value
There is a vast price gap here. The KitchenAid KF8 costs around $150, offering incredible value for someone who wants to make excellent cold brew simply and affordably. For its purpose, the value is fantastic.
Jura machines start around $1,000 and can easily exceed $3,000. The value here isn't about being inexpensive, it's about the comprehensive features, convenience, and build quality. For a serious coffee lover, the cost can be justified by replacing daily coffee shop visits and having access to perfect coffee on demand - a long-term investment in a lifestyle.
Style & Versatility
With its friendly curves and color options, the KitchenAid adds a touch of classic, retro charm to a kitchen, blending in nicely with other small appliances. It is a functional piece that also serves as decor.
Jura machines communicate modern sophistication. Their sleek lines, high-tech displays, and premium metallic or black finishes give them a professional, minimalist look. They are designed to be a centerpiece in an upscale, contemporary kitchen, making a statement about craftsmanship and technology.
Which One Should You Choose?
Both KitchenAid and Jura deliver excellent coffee, but they cater to entirely opposite needs, budgets, and brewing preferences.
Choose the KitchenAid KF8 if:
- You primarily or exclusively drink cold brew coffee.
- Your budget for a coffee maker is under $200.
- You enjoy a simple, hands-on brewing process and don't mind planning ahead.
- You want a compact, stylish device that is easy to clean and store.
Choose a Jura machine if:
- You want one-touch café drinks like espresso, lattes, and cappuccinos.
- You value convenience and want a fully automatic, bean-to-cup experience.
- You have a budget of $1,000 or more to invest in a machine.
- You are a serious coffee enthusiast who prioritizes freshness, customization, and quality.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the main difference between the KitchenAid KF8 and a Jura?
The main difference is their function. The KitchenAid is a manual device that only makes cold brew coffee by steeping grounds over 12-24 hours. A Jura is a fully automatic machine that grinds beans and brews a wide variety of hot coffee drinks (like espresso and cappuccinos) within seconds.
Can the KitchenAid KF8 make hot coffee?
No. It is not an electric appliance and does not have a heating element. It is designed exclusively for the cold-steeping method of making cold brew coffee.
Can Jura machines make cold brew?
No, Jura machines cannot make true cold brew, which requires a long steeping period in cold water. Some high-end models have features for making iced coffee by brewing hot concentrate over ice, but this is a fundamentally different beverage from traditional cold brew.
Which brand is more durable?
Jura is significantly more durable. Their machines are built with premium materials and Swiss-engineered components designed for long-term, heavy use, and they come with a longer warranty period to reflect that quality.
Which one is easier to clean?
The KitchenAid KF8 is simpler to clean, as its parts can be easily disassembled and washed by hand. Jura machines have complex internal systems but feature automated cleaning cycles that prompt you when to run them with special cleaning tablets, making daily upkeep very easy, though they do require periodic deeper maintenance.
Do I need a separate grinder for the KitchenAid KF8?
Yes. To get the best results with the KitchenAid, you will need a separate coffee grinder to produce coarse grounds, which are ideal for cold brewing.
Which is a better investment?
That depends entirely on your needs. The KitchenAid is a fantastic low-cost investment for a dedicated cold brew lover. A Jura machine is a significant financial investment for someone who wants the ultimate convenience and variety of a personal at-home coffee bar.
Is Jura really worth the extreme price difference?
For many coffee aficionados, yes. The cost represents an all-in-one solution that combines a high-end burr grinder, professional brewing technology, and an automatic milk frother in a single unit. The convenience and consistent quality of the drinks it produces can justify the price for those who prioritize those features.
At Interior Insider, we're dedicated to curating the best in home decor, interior design, and home essentials to help you discover brands we think you'll love. Every brand we feature is independently selected by our editorial team based on quality, design, and craftsmanship. When you make a purchase through our links, Interior Insider may earn a commission - which helps support our small team and allows us to continue bringing you inspiration and expert advice for creating your perfect space.
Looking for more inspiration? Explore our curated design guides to find your next favorite piece.
