Cold brew coffee delivers smooth, low-acid, naturally sweet flavor that hot brewing methods can’t replicate. Whether you want a simple immersion pitcher or a professional-grade system, these are the best cold brew makers for every budget and brewing style.
In a hurry? The Takeya Cold Brew Maker is the best cold brew maker for most people. Need higher volume? Go with the Toddy Cold Brew System. Want a compact option? The Hario Mizudashi is worth considering.
Product
Best For
Key Feature
Takeya Deluxe
Best Overall
Airtight, leak-proof, 2qt
Toddy Cold Brew System
Best for Volume
Makes 36oz concentrate
OXO Brew Compact
Best Design
Rainmaker top, glass carafe
Hario Mizudashi
Best Japanese Design
Fine mesh, slim profile
Takeya 1-Quart
Best Budget
Same quality, smaller size
OXO Good Grips 32oz
Best for Concentrate
Switch-release drain
Primula Burke
Best Value
51oz capacity, affordable
County Line Kitchen
Best Mason Jar Style
Wide mouth, 64oz
What to Look For
Brewing method — Immersion brewers steep grounds in water; slow-drip systems produce different flavor profiles. Immersion is simpler and more common
Capacity — Consider how much cold brew you drink. 1-quart serves 4-5 drinks; 2-quart serves 8-10. Cold brew concentrate dilutes 1:1 or 1:2
Filter type — Fine mesh filters keep grounds out; some systems use paper filters for even cleaner results
Material — Glass is non-reactive and looks premium; BPA-free Tritan plastic is durable and shatterproof
Refrigerator fit — Cold brew steeps in the fridge for 12-24 hours; make sure your brewer fits on a shelf or door
Airtightness — Sealed containers keep coffee fresh longer and prevent fridge odors from affecting flavor
Best Cold Brew Coffee Makers
Takeya Deluxe Cold Brew Coffee Maker — Best Overall
Sale
Takeya Tritan Cold Brew Coffee Maker – Airtight Pitcher with Leak-Free Lid – BPA-Free Cold Brew Maker with Silicone Handle – Dishwasher-Safe Pitcher for Homemade Cold Brew – 2 Quart, Black
The Takeya Deluxe combines everything you need for excellent cold brew: airtight seal, fine filtration, and the perfect 2-quart capacity.
This BPA-free Tritan pitcher features a patented airtight lid that locks in freshness and allows you to shake the brewer for better extraction. The fine-mesh filter keeps grounds completely out of your coffee. The slim design fits in most refrigerator doors. The 2-quart capacity makes enough concentrate for 8-10 drinks. Shatterproof construction handles everyday use. Simply add grounds, water, steep 12-24 hours, remove the filter, and enjoy smooth cold brew for up to two weeks.
Pros:
Airtight, leak-proof design
Perfect 2-quart capacity
Fine mesh filter eliminates sediment
Fits in fridge door
Cons:
Plastic construction (though BPA-free)
Can’t see coffee level easily
Best for: Anyone who wants a simple, reliable cold brew system that produces consistent results.
Toddy Cold Brew System — Best for Volume
Toddy® Cold Brew System
The Toddy Cold Brew System is the original cold brew maker, trusted by cafes worldwide for producing smooth, balanced concentrate.
This drawdown-style system uses felt and paper filters to produce exceptionally clean concentrate—up to 36 ounces from a single batch. The cold-water extraction process eliminates bitterness and acidity. The included glass decanter stores your concentrate in the fridge. One batch makes enough for 12-18 drinks when diluted. The Toddy was the first commercial cold brew system, and its simple, effective design has remained unchanged for decades. Trusted by Starbucks and specialty cafes everywhere.
Pros:
Produces large batches of concentrate
Exceptionally smooth, clean results
Dual filtration for clarity
Proven design trusted by professionals
Cons:
Requires felt filter replacement
More complex than pitcher-style brewers
Best for: Cold brew enthusiasts who want maximum volume and cafe-quality concentrate.
OXO Brew Compact Cold Brew Coffee Maker — Best Design
OXO Brew Compact Cold Brew Coffee Maker
Brew low-acid coffee concentrate for hot or iced coffee
24-oz brewing container makes enough concentrate for up to seven coffee drinks
Compact size is ideal for brewing on countertops or in refrigerators
Draining starts automatically when brewer is placed on carafe
Rainmaker evenly distributes water over coffee grounds
The OXO Compact brings thoughtful design to cold brew with its Rainmaker top for even saturation and elegant glass carafe.
This 24-ounce brewer features OXO’s signature Rainmaker lid that distributes water evenly over grounds for optimal extraction. The ultra-fine stainless steel mesh filter keeps grounds out of your concentrate. The borosilicate glass carafe with cork stopper looks beautiful and keeps coffee fresh. The brewer nests into the carafe for compact storage. Draining starts automatically when you place the brewer on the carafe. A week’s worth of concentrate in a stylish, space-efficient package.
Pros:
Rainmaker ensures even saturation
Beautiful glass carafe with cork
Compact, nestable design
Reusable stainless steel filter
Cons:
Smaller 24oz capacity
Glass carafe can break
Best for: Design-conscious users who want attractive countertop cold brew equipment.
Hario Mizudashi Cold Brew Coffee Pot — Best Japanese Design
Sale
Hario “Mizudashi” Cold Brew Coffee Maker, 1000ml, Black
Mizudashi Coffee Maker: The simplest way to make and enjoy cold brew coffee at home. Simply add ground coffee to the fine mesh basket, add water and leave in refrigerator to brew. Clean up is easy with a removable filter — simply wash and reuse
Cold Brew at Home: Grind coffee coarse for a lighter more delicate coffee, or finer for a brew with more body and strength. Delicious homemade cold brew coffee, however you like it
Daily Use: Featuring a slender spout for slow, steady and controlled pouring. Brew and serve directly from glass coffee server
Japanese Design: Made with high-quality Hario heatproof glass. Made in Japan
Product Details: 5-cup capacity, brewed volume 1000mL; W138×D94×H294mm
The Hario Mizudashi offers elegant Japanese design with a fine mesh filter that produces remarkably clean cold brew.
This 1-liter glass pitcher features Hario’s signature heat-resistant borosilicate glass and a polyester mesh filter finer than most competitors. The slim profile fits easily in refrigerator doors. The simple design—just pitcher, filter, and lid—makes brewing and cleanup effortless. The slender spout provides controlled pouring. Made in Japan with Hario’s legendary quality standards. A refined option from the company known for the iconic V60.
Pros:
Extremely fine mesh filter
Beautiful Japanese design
Heat-resistant glass
Slim fridge-friendly profile
Cons:
Glass can break
Moderate 1L capacity
Best for: Those who appreciate Japanese craftsmanship and want exceptionally clean cold brew.
Takeya Cold Brew Coffee Maker 1-Quart — Best Budget
Takeya Tritan Cold Brew Coffee Maker – Airtight Pitcher with Leak-Free Lid – BPA-Free Cold Brew Maker with Silicone Handle – Dishwasher-Safe Pitcher for Homemade Cold Brew – 1 Quart, Black
The Deluxe Cold Brew Coffee Maker is a durable BPA Free Tritan pitcher with an airtight lid and non-slip silicone handle. It produces 4 servings of smooth cold brew with any type of coffee grounds and is less acidic than traditional coffee brewing.
The Fine-Mesh Coffee Filter in this cold brew coffee maker keeps grounds out of your freshly brewed pot – differing from other coffee machines. Tritan plastic withstands hot temperatures if you want a hot cup of coffee. Fits in most refrigerator doors
Premium Bottles and Lids: Our innovative line of insulated hydration solutions come in a range of sizes. We offer water bottles in 18, 24, 32, 40, and 64 oz sizes, beverage makers and pitchers in 1 Qt and 2 Qt sizes
BPA Free Hydration Solutions: From insulated stainless steel water bottles to beverage makers and pitchers, as well as a variety of product accessories, Takeya USA products help you stay cool, refreshed and hydrated for an active, on-the-go lifestyle
Innovative Hydration Solutions: Takeya brings over 55 years of Japanese design heritage to our line of insulated, BPA free water bottles, our sustainable iced tea, fruit infusion, and cold brew pitchers, and our Pickleball bottles and equipment.
The 1-quart Takeya offers the same excellent design as the Deluxe in a smaller, more affordable package.
This compact brewer uses the same airtight seal, fine-mesh filter, and BPA-free Tritan construction as its larger sibling. The 1-quart capacity makes 4-5 drinks per batch—perfect for solo cold brew drinkers. The slimmer profile fits in any refrigerator. Same easy brewing process: add grounds and water, steep overnight, remove filter, enjoy. An excellent entry point into cold brew or a second brewer for variety.
Pros:
Most affordable quality option
Same great Takeya design
Perfect for individuals
Ultra-compact size
Cons:
Limited to 4-5 drinks per batch
May need frequent brewing
Best for: Budget-conscious buyers and solo cold brew enthusiasts who don’t need large batches.
OXO Good Grips Cold Brew Coffee Maker — Best for Concentrate
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The OXO Good Grips 32-ounce brewer features a unique switch-release drain that makes dispensing concentrate effortless.
This larger OXO system brews in its container, then drains concentrate directly into the glass carafe at the flip of a switch. The Rainmaker top ensures even water distribution over grounds. The ultra-fine stainless steel mesh filter produces clean, sediment-free concentrate. The 32-ounce capacity makes enough for 10-14 drinks. Everything nests together for compact storage. An elegant system for serious cold brew fans who want larger batches.
Pros:
Switch-release drain is satisfying
Rainmaker for even extraction
Larger capacity than Compact
Nestable storage design
Cons:
Higher price point
Multiple pieces to clean
Best for: Those who want a premium cold brew experience with OXO’s thoughtful design touches.
Primula Burke Deluxe Cold Brew Coffee Maker — Best Value
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The Primula Burke delivers impressive 51-ounce capacity in a protective plastic holder at a budget-friendly price.
This large-capacity brewer features a borosilicate glass carafe protected by a plastic holder with comfort-grip handle. The stainless steel mesh filter keeps grounds out of your cold brew. The silicone base prevents slipping. The tight-sealing lid maintains freshness. At 51 ounces, it makes enough concentrate for a week of cold brew. Dishwasher-safe components simplify cleanup. Excellent value for those who want glass construction without premium pricing.
Pros:
Large 51oz capacity
Glass carafe in protective holder
Very affordable price
Dishwasher safe
Cons:
Bulkier than slim pitchers
Basic filter compared to premium options
Best for: Value-seekers who want large batches in a glass brewer without paying premium prices.
County Line Kitchen Cold Brew Coffee Maker — Best Mason Jar Style
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The County Line Kitchen brewer uses a classic wide-mouth mason jar design with a precision stainless steel filter.
This 64-ounce brewer combines rustic mason jar aesthetics with modern cold brew functionality. The extra-fine 80-micron mesh stainless steel filter produces remarkably clean cold brew. The wide mouth makes adding grounds and cleaning simple. The flip-cap lid allows easy pouring while keeping coffee fresh. Heavy-duty glass construction withstands daily use. A charming, effective option that looks great on the counter or in the fridge.
Pros:
Attractive mason jar design
Large 64oz capacity
Very fine mesh filter
Wide mouth for easy filling
Cons:
Bulky for some fridges
Glass is heavier than plastic
Best for: Those who love the mason jar aesthetic and want large-batch cold brew in classic style.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best cold brew coffee maker for most people?
The Takeya Deluxe 2-Quart offers the best combination of capacity, ease of use, and value. Its airtight design, fine filter, and fridge-friendly size make it ideal for regular cold brew drinkers. For maximum volume and cafe-quality results, the Toddy system is worth the extra investment.
How long should cold brew steep?
Cold brew typically steeps for 12-24 hours in the refrigerator. Shorter steeping (12-16 hours) produces lighter, more tea-like cold brew. Longer steeping (18-24 hours) extracts more body and strength. Experiment to find your preferred flavor profile.
What’s the difference between cold brew and iced coffee?
Cold brew is coffee steeped in cold water for 12+ hours, producing smooth, low-acid concentrate. Iced coffee is regular hot-brewed coffee served over ice. Cold brew is naturally sweeter and less bitter because cold water extracts different compounds than hot water.
How do I dilute cold brew concentrate?
Most cold brew is served as concentrate diluted 1:1 or 1:2 with water, milk, or ice. Start with 1:1 dilution and adjust to taste. Some people drink cold brew concentrate straight if it’s brewed at a weaker ratio.
How long does cold brew last in the fridge?
Cold brew concentrate keeps for 1-2 weeks refrigerated in an airtight container. After removing the grounds, the low acidity of cold brew helps it stay fresh longer than regular coffee. If it tastes stale or develops off-flavors, it’s time for a new batch.
What grind size should I use for cold brew?
Coarse grind—similar to raw sugar or breadcrumbs—works best for cold brew. Coarse grounds extract slowly and evenly over the long steep time. Finer grinds can over-extract and create bitter, harsh flavors, and may clog filters.
What’s the right coffee-to-water ratio for cold brew?
For concentrate, use a 1:4 to 1:5 ratio (1 cup coffee to 4-5 cups water). For ready-to-drink cold brew, use 1:8 to 1:12. Most cold brew makers include recommended ratios in their instructions. Adjust based on how you plan to serve it.
Can I heat up cold brew?
Yes, cold brew concentrate makes excellent hot coffee when diluted with hot water. The cold extraction process produces smooth, low-acid coffee that tastes great hot or cold. Add hot water to concentrate at your preferred strength.
Do I need to use special coffee for cold brew?
Any coffee works for cold brew, but medium to dark roasts with chocolate, nutty, or caramel notes tend to produce the best results. Light roasts can taste too acidic or tea-like. Cold brew mutes subtle flavor notes, so save your expensive single-origins for pour over.
Are expensive cold brew makers worth it?
For basic cold brew, an inexpensive Takeya works perfectly. Premium options like the OXO or Toddy justify their cost if you want specific features like the Rainmaker top, glass carafes, or larger batch sizes. The brewing mechanism is simple—you’re paying for materials, capacity, and design.
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Verdict
The Takeya Deluxe 2-Quart is the best cold brew coffee maker for most people because it combines reliable performance, smart design, and excellent value. The airtight seal keeps coffee fresh, the fine filter produces clean results, and the size is perfect for regular cold brew drinkers.
For those who want larger batches or cafe-quality results, the Toddy Cold Brew System delivers exceptional concentrate with its dual-filtration design. And for design-conscious users who prefer glass, the OXO Brew Compact brings thoughtful features like the Rainmaker top and beautiful aesthetics to cold brew brewing.