When you’re looking for the best iced coffee maker, it’s important to understand the difference between iced coffee and cold brew.
Using the best iced coffee maker for your home, replace your hot morning caffeine fix with a cool beverage to stay cool this summer.
Whether you’re a fan of making your own iced coffee at home, our run-down of the top picks will have you turning out gourmet iced coffee drinks in no time.
Best Iced Coffee Maker: Our Top Picks
- 1. Cuisinart DCC-3200 14-Cup Coffeemaker – Best Overall
- 2. Bodum Chambord French Press Coffee Maker – Best Value
- 3. OXO ‘Good Grips’ Coffee Maker – For Cold Brew
- 4. Cuisinart SS-10 Single-Serve Coffee Maker
- 5. Ovalware 1.0 Liter RJ3 Coffee Brewer
- 6. K-SLIM + ICED™ SINGLE SERVE COFFEE MAKER
- 7. KITCHENAID KCM4212SX COLD BREW COFFEE MAKER
- 8. MR. COFFEE ICED COFFEE MAKER
- 9. Ninja Specialty Coffee Maker
- 10. DeLonghi 3-in-1 Specialty Coffee Brewer
The 10 Best Iced Coffee Makers
1. Cuisinart DCC-3200 14-Cup Coffeemaker – Best Overall
The straightforward DCC-3200 coffeemaker from Cuisinart is our top choice. We adore this because it simply functions well and makes excellent hot and iced coffee with ease. It has the majority of the features you would anticipate, including a sizable carafe, a hotplate, a gold-tone filter basket, strength options, and the capacity to be programmed.
We advise trying out a few different grounds and strength settings. Be sure to utilize the programming once you’ve determined what works for you. To enjoy freshly brewed coffee in the morning, simply fill the reservoir and prepare your grounds the previous evening.
You have the option to turn the hotplate on or off using this machine. This implies that you can set it to brew coffee hours before you plan to wake up and then let the coffee cool so that it is ready to be iced when you want to drink it.
Remove the carafe and set it on a cooling rack or metal trivet to expedite the process. This will enable heat to dissipate from all sides of the hot coffee, preserving a smoother and more natural flavor.
This, in our opinion, is a fantastic option, particularly for a family or workplace where several pots of iced coffee may be consumed each day.
Overall, we think this is the best iced coffee maker we have found this year. Enjoy!
Pros
- Programmable
- Three different strength settings
Cons
- The cone filter works well, but some may prefer a basket-type filter
Related Reading: How To Use Cuisinart Coffee Maker?
2. Bodum Chambord French Press Coffee Maker – Best Value
The Bodum Chambord French Press is the following product. As a result of this choice’s excellent value for the money and simplicity of this choice, we believe it merits inclusion in our guide.
French press brewing allows grounds and water to sit for a long period of time as opposed to traditional drip brewing. While you can still brew hot coffee in this French press and then chill it to make a proper iced coffee, this method is somewhat similar to making cold brew.
There are several different sizes available, ranging from 12 ounces to 51 ounces. For anyone looking to host a small group of guests, this makes it a viable option. For anyone who wants to simply keep moving in the morning, its ease of cleaning may make it a good option.
Following your preferred French press method, brew your coffee, and either pour it into a pitcher to cool, or just leave it in the press to do so. The second option allows for a little more extraction, which will give your coffee more notes of chocolate.
Pros
- Simple to use and clean
- Very reasonably priced
Cons
- None of the fancy features of a drip machine
3. Oxo “Good Grips” Coffee Maker – For Cold Brew
We examined the OXO Good Grips for those of you who want to make authentic cold brew. The strong, chocolatey concentrate that is produced by this machine is excellent, despite its straightforward design.
Because it brews directly into a carafe that is designed to resemble a lab beaker, the machine’s slightly science-fiction-like appearance is accentuated.
An upper chamber of the OXO can be stocked with grounds that are prepared for steeping. It includes a “rainmaker” on top. This makes sure that extraction and water distribution are both distributed equally across the grounds.
Of course, time is the most important factor in any cold brew procedure. We advise steeping the OXO for at least 12 hours, but even more time is preferable. Simply flip the switch to start the flow of the finished product into the carafe when you’re ready to release your concentrate.
Pros
- Simple design
- Unobtrusive; will fit well in any kitchen
Cons
- No options to customize the brew
- Relatively small capacity
4. Cuisinart SS-10 Single-Serve Coffee Maker
The SS-10 is better suited for one person, as opposed to the previous Cuisinart model, which we believe is a good option for a family. However, because it is single-serving, you can customize it much more, so what you lose in volume, you more than make up for in customization. You can fiddle around and brew each cup exactly how you like with a variety of brew settings.
It differs from our first option in that it is made for K-cup use. Because of this, it’s an excellent choice for anyone who values the convenience of K-cups. However, don’t worry; you can still use this machine with the coffee you already have on hand.
This machine features a reusable filter cup in addition to being compatible with K-cups. In order to make a single serving of beer, you can pack your grounds in.
This model works really well and is convenient and quick, which is why we like it. But we also appreciate that it can adjust the brew temperature. This opens the door to testing out lower temperature brewing. If what you taste appeals to you, great; you’re one step closer to a cup of delectably cold iced coffee.
Pros
- K-Cup compatible
- Temperature control
Cons
- Single-serving only
- No included carafe
5. Ovalware 1.0 Liter RJ3 Coffee Brewer
Anyone looking to make true cold brew has another excellent option in Ovalware’s RJ3 Airtight model. Additionally, it functions as a tea infuser.
In this model, you can pick up the ground material and a carafe of finished concentrate is left behind instead of letting the finished product run out of the grind. Many users appreciate how easy the process is, and this system has a very elegant appearance. Due to a few possible brewing process issues, we are not giving this a higher ranking.
The grounds can’t circulate through the water equally with the RJ3. Some of the extraction is lost because they are kept inside the cylindrical filtering device. Although occasionally stirring the grounds is advised, doing so inside the filter can be challenging.
When removing the grounds, some users express frustration. You must act quickly and carefully when lifting the filter to prevent spilling cold brew on your kitchen floor as you make your way to the sink.
We do value the RJ3’s ability to finish the entire brewing process in an airtight environment. Because of this, oxidation is kept to a minimum.
Pros
- Airtight
- Looks great
Cons
- Can be messy
- Potential for uneven extraction
6. K-SLIM + Iced Single Serve Coffee Maker
No matter the season, you can drink iced coffee (and we do). However, if counter space and money are limited, you might want something that offers slightly more value than a dedicated iced coffee maker. In that case, this new Keurig model can help. It produces tasty coffee in 8, 10, and 12 oz cups, just like the other K-Slim family members, in addition to making deliciously straightforward iced drinks. It is incredibly simple to use and, compared to some of the other choices on our list, is probably more convenient as a single-serve maker.
Additionally, it doesn’t sacrifice flavor in favor of simplicity. This iced coffee will be among the best you’ve ever had because of how flavorful brewing over ice is at preserving flavor without adding any extra work.
Pros
- Quick and easy to use
- Does more than just iced coffee so a countertop space saver
- Can be used with flavored coffee pods
Cons
- 6 ounces of iced coffee are served.
- One color option
Related Reading: How To Use Keurig Coffee Maker?
7. Kitchenaid KCM4212SX Cold Brew Coffee Maker
You’ll adore KitchenAid’s Cold Brew Coffee Maker if you enjoy cold, ready-to-drink coffee and enjoy the idea of being able to pour yourself a cup straight from the refrigerator. It has a handy pour dispenser built into the design and fits perfectly on the shelf of your refrigerator.
Although using your own measuring cups is necessary, the KitchenAid Cold Brew maker’s brew process is fairly straightforward. Adding 9 oz. (250g) of coarsely ground coffee and 1L plus 8oz. of water to the container, then stepping inside the refrigerator or at room temperature, is required for the brewing process. The result is approximately 28 ounces of cold brew, or 14 x 2 ounce servings of coffee concentrate, which can be served by combining one part coffee with two parts milk or water. Once the process is finished, you remove the brew basket with interior handle.
Pros
- Sturdy construction
- Great for making a big batch of cold brew to create iced coffee from
- Has a handle
- Easily fits in the fridge
Cons
- Fragile glass
8. Mr. Coffee Iced Coffee Maker
I must admit that I enjoy drinking filter coffee. I adore the nostalgic feeling brought on by the sounds of water boiling in a machine and the steady drip it makes once it is done. The Mr. Coffee Iced Coffee Maker provides a single serving pour of freshly brewed, filter drip coffee in a portable tumbler in just a few minutes. Although the instruction manual suggests using your own cup or mug, a replacement is provided in the box and fits snugly into the depression created by the design of this iced coffee maker beneath the spout. The included 22oz tumbler is the perfect size, but it was disappointing that the straw, lid, and container were not dishwasher safe.
Pros
- 3-4 minute brew time
- Dual use as makes hot coffee as well
- Reusable filter
- Affordable
Cons
- Lack of unique features
- Hand washing required
9. Ninja Specialty Coffee Maker
I have to admit to being pretty impressed by this machine. In fact, I’m naming it the “best specialty iced coffee maker.”
The Ninja Specialty Coffee Maker is rather impressive, despite the fact that I am typically very dubious of any drip coffee maker that makes the claim that it can brew specialty coffees.
Six brew sizes, from a single cup to a 10-cup carafe, are available with this specialty coffee maker. There is even a fold-away frother that is integrated for making milk foam.
Pros
- Fantastic iced coffee!
- Built in milk frother
- Multiple brew sizes
- Easy to clean
Cons
- Water reservoir is prone to leak
Related Reading: How To Clean A Ninja Coffee Maker?
10. Delonghi 3-in-1 Specialty Coffee Brewer
The DeLonghi 3-in-1 Specialty Coffee Brewer has received the same Golden Cup certification as the Ninja Hot and Cold Brewed System from the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA). You can be confident that the DeLonghi makes excellent coffee because coffee makers must adhere to standards that include the proper brewing time and temperature.
Pros
- Award-winning design
- Makes Drip
- pour-over and iced coffee
- SCA Golden Cup certified
Cons
- Expensive
- Brew basket sits inside the carafe
How To Choose The Best Iced Coffee Maker?
The volume of the machine and your way of life should be taken into account when looking for the best iced coffee maker for you. A larger container that can easily serve many people may be ideal for you if you enjoy entertaining and like the idea of being able to offer your guests an iced coffee. You should also think about any other coffee accessories you may already have, such as a standard filter coffee maker or a French press, that could serve the same purpose.
Because there isn’t a wide selection of products available specifically for making iced coffee, one of the products you already own might produce an equivalent result. But if you frequently order iced coffee from cafes and prefer to make your own, you can save a lot of money and time if you have a machine like this that you can use to make iced coffee that you can drink straight from the refrigerator.
Iced Coffee Makers Vs Cold Brew Coffee Makers
Traditional iced coffee is simply hot coffee that has been cooled. This is a more conventional approach to making a summertime beverage, and the end result frequently has a brighter and more lively flavor.
As the name might suggest, cold brew is a preparation of coffee in which no heat is involved at all. For a long period of time—typically 24 to 48 hours—coarse grounds are soaked in water to make cold brew. The outcome is a highly concentrated, sweet mixture with very little acidity.
Because of how slowly this process is carried out, some notes can be extracted that might otherwise linger in the background or be overpowered by sharper, more astringent notes. Due to its smoother and more chocolate-like flavor, cold brew is well known for.
What are the main variations? It’s worth carefully considering the distinctions between these two preparation techniques when deciding how to best satisfy your craving for iced coffee or cold brew. If you’re on the fence but know that all you’re looking for is a quick way to brew coffee to chill, here are some important things to think about.
Taste
The main distinction between cold brew and iced coffee is this. When you sip a cup of either, it should be clear to you right away. In general, cold brew is richer and tastes more like chocolate. Coffee served over ice often has a sharper flavor and still has a fruity aftertaste.
This is so that the long, slow extraction used in cold brew can be effective. As a result, cold brew can access the flavor elements that are hidden away in the coffee grounds for the longest time: the darker, more bitter notes. This is well-liked by many coffee drinkers, but the disadvantage is that cold brew can mask the fruitier and brighter flavor notes.
Iced coffee is the best option if you want to maintain these more delicate notes. Your coffee will retain its lightness to a greater extent the faster you can cool it.
Caffeine Contents
There is one thing that all coffee drinkers have in common, despite the fact that many of us may wax and wane endlessly about the various flavors of coffee: we all adore caffeine. If you’re concerned about your caffeine intake, you should be aware of the variations between cold brew and iced coffee with regard to this matter.
Drip coffee typically contains much less caffeine than cold-brew. It might be a good idea to stick with the cold brew method if you need a particularly strong morning pick-me-up. Stick with classic iced coffee if you’d rather stay away from the caffeine shakes.
Related Reading: Difference Between Cold Brew And Iced Coffee
FAQs
Is Iced Coffee Produced By Any Coffee Makers?
Yes, you can make iced coffee in any coffee maker by brewing a super-strong brew over ice. However, because they have settings specifically for brewing these extremely potent brews, specialty iced coffee makers make it simpler. It takes more than just adding more ground coffee to the drip coffee maker to get a stronger brew; a slower brew cycle is used to improve extraction.
Are Cold Brew Coffee Makers Worthwhile?
You should invest in a cold brew coffee maker, yes. A dedicated cold brew coffee maker is the best investment if you consume a lot of cold brew. Many models come equipped with the necessary carafes, filters, and automated brewing systems to fully benefit from this brew method. Additionally, it frees up your French press or Aeropress for your hot morning mug of coffee.
How To Use An Aeropress As A Cold Brew Coffee Maker?
Pour 30 grams of coarse coffee grounds into your inverted Aeropress, then add 132 grams of room-temperature water, stir, and let steep for 24 hours. After the 24-hour period has passed, carefully invert the Aeropress over a mug, press, and sip.
Final Words
We hope this guide has made some of the options related to iced coffee clearer. You will be well on your way to enjoying a nice cold drink in the comfort of your own home regardless of which product you choose. Which iced coffee makers are the top ones on the market right now?
To reiterate, the Cuisinart DCC-3200 is our top pick. The SS-10, also from Cuisinart, comes in second place. We also advise the OXO Good Grips if you’re looking for a genuine cold brew solution.