Head-to-Head Comparisons

What actually separates cold brew makers

Most home cold brew makers do the same basic job: coarse coffee sits in cold water for half a day or more, then gets filtered out. The differences that matter show up in four places.

Batch size. If you drink cold brew most days, a brewer that makes close to two quarts saves you from starting a new batch every few days. Smaller pitchers suit one person or occasional use.

Filter type. Felt and paper catch the finest particles and give the cleanest cup. Mesh filters never need replacing, but let a little more sediment through.

Cleanup and running cost. A felt filter needs rinsing and drying after each batch and replacing every few months. Mesh needs neither, which some people will happily trade for a slightly grittier cup.

Fridge fit. A tall pitcher you brew and store in is easier to live with than a brewer plus a separate decanter, if shelf space is tight.