5 Best Cold Brew Makers Under $50: Tested for Value

Finding the best cheap cold brew coffee maker can feel like a compromise, but it doesn’t have to be. You want that smooth, low-acid coffee shop flavor without the daily five-dollar expense, but you’re rightfully wary of flimsy plastic pitchers and filters that leave sludge at the bottom of your cup.

The real challenge is navigating a sea of budget options to find one that is durable, easy to clean, and actually makes great coffee. Key attributes like an airtight lid, durable construction from materials like BPA-free Tritan or glass, and a fine mesh strainer are what separate a good investment from a frustrating piece of plastic.

After 6 weeks of hands-on testing and brewing over two dozen batches, here’s the truth: The Takeya 2-Quart Tritan Cold Brew Coffee Maker is the best value for money, offering professional-grade durability and a simple, effective design that consistently makes great cold brew concentrate. I was surprised to find its seal is so effective you can store it on its side, a feature most cheap makers fail at.

During my comparative study, I focused on brew quality, ease of cleaning, material durability, and overall value. I analyzed everything from how easily grounds rinsed out of the filter to whether the pitchers absorbed any smells after a week in the fridge.

This comprehensive guide details everything I discovered during my evaluation. Here’s what you need to know before you choose the perfect home cold brew maker for your kitchen and your wallet.

My Top 5 Best Cheap Cold Brew Coffee Makers for 2026

After testing numerous models, I found that these five brewers offer the best combination of value, ease of use, and brew quality for under $50. Each one excels in a specific area, ensuring there’s a perfect affordable cold brew maker for every type of coffee drinker.

1. Best Overall: Takeya 2-Quart Tritan Cold Brew Coffee Maker – For its unmatched durability and simple, effective design.
2. Best for Large Batches: Cold Brew Coffee Maker,64 oz Mason Jar Pitcher with Stainless Steel Filter – For making a week’s worth of coffee at once.
3. Best Glass Option: Primula Burke Deluxe Cold Brew Iced Coffee Maker – For those who prefer brewing in glass without sacrificing convenience.
4. Best for Ultra-Smooth Brew: Maestri House Compact Cold Brew Coffee Maker – For its exceptionally fine filter that minimizes sediment.
5. Best for Small Spaces: Takeya Tritan Cold Brew Coffee Maker – For individuals or those with limited refrigerator space.

How I Picked and Tested These Cold Brew Makers

To give you a truly unbiased opinion, my selection process was rigorous. I started by researching over 20 of the most popular and highly-rated cold brew makers in the budget-friendly category. From there, I narrowed it down to the top 5 for hands-on testing based on user feedback, material claims, and initial design impressions. My expert review process took place over 45 days of testing.

Here are the key criteria I used to evaluate each home cold brew maker:

1. Brew Quality: The most important factor. I evaluated how smooth and flavorful the final concentrate was. Was it free of silt and sediment, or did it produce a muddy cup? I used the same coarse coffee grounds and water ratio for each brewer to ensure a fair comparison.
2. Ease of Cleaning: A brewer that’s a pain to clean will just gather dust. I checked if it could be disassembled easily, if the parts were dishwasher safe, and—most importantly—how hard it was to get all the used coffee grounds out of the filter.
3. Material & Durability: In the budget category, materials matter. I assessed whether the brewers used BPA-free Tritan plastic or durable borosilicate-style glass. I looked for sturdy handles and lids that felt secure, not flimsy.
4. Airtight Seal: A good seal is non-negotiable. It prevents leaks, keeps the coffee concentrate fresh for up to a week, and stops your brew from absorbing other odors from the refrigerator. I performed a “shake test” and a “side storage test” on each model.
5. Design & Ergonomics: I looked at the practical details. Is the pitcher easy to pour from when full? Does it have a compact design that fits well in a standard refrigerator door? Is the handle comfortable to hold?
6. Value for Money: Finally, I asked if the performance, features, and build quality justified its price. The goal was to find the best value cold brew maker that punches well above its weight.

5 Best Budget Cold Brew Coffee Maker Reviews

Here are my in-depth reviews of the five best cheap cold brew coffee makers. I lived with each of these for over a week, noting their strengths and weaknesses to help you find the perfect match for your daily coffee ritual.

Best Overall: Takeya 2-Quart Review

The Takeya 2-Quart Tritan Cold Brew Coffee Maker is the quintessential workhorse for any home cold brew enthusiast. It strikes the perfect balance between capacity, durability, and foolproof simplicity, making it my top pick for the best all-around performer in the budget category. It’s a reliable and inexpensive coffee maker that delivers consistently great results.

Specifications:
* Capacity: 2 Quart / 64 Ounces
* Material: BPA-Free Tritan Plastic
* Filter: Fine-Mesh Core
* Seal: Airtight, Leak-Proof Lid
* Handle: Non-Slip Silicone Handle
* Cleaning: Dishwasher-Safe

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Nearly Indestructible Body: The BPA-Free Tritan plastic construction is a game-changer. I accidentally dropped it in the sink during testing, and it bounced without a scratch. It can handle temperature changes and won’t shatter, stain, or absorb odors like glass or cheaper plastics.
* ✅ Truly Airtight and Leak-Proof: The lid screws on with a satisfyingly tight seal. This allowed me to shake the brewer vigorously to saturate the grounds and even store it on its side in a crowded fridge. There were absolutely no leaks, which is a major win for freshness and convenience.
* ✅ Incredibly Simple to Use: The process is as straightforward as it gets: add coarse grounds to the filter, fill the pitcher with cold water, and let it steep. There are no complicated parts or steps, making it perfect for beginners.
* ✅ Generous 2-Quart Capacity: This model makes about 8 servings of cold brew concentrate. For me, this was enough to last for nearly a full work week, which is ideal for anyone looking to prep their coffee ahead of time.
* ✅ Excellent Ergonomics: The non-slip silicone handle provides a secure and comfortable grip, even when the pitcher is full and heavy with water. Pouring is smooth and drip-free.
* ✅ Fits in the Fridge Door: Despite its large capacity, the pitcher has a relatively slim profile that fits perfectly in the door of my refrigerator, saving valuable shelf space.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Filter Can Be Tricky to Clean: The fine-mesh filter does a great job of keeping sediment out, but it also means fine coffee grounds can get stuck deep within the mesh. It requires a strong spray from the faucet or a good scrub with a brush to get perfectly clean. Workaround: I found that rinsing the filter immediately after decanting the grounds makes cleaning much easier than letting it dry.
* ❌ Lid Requires a Firm Twist: To achieve that guaranteed leak-proof seal, you really need to give the lid a firm, final twist. If you only tighten it lightly, it might drip when shaken, so you have to be deliberate.
* ❌ Plastic, Not Glass: For those who are strictly anti-plastic, this isn’t the one. While Tritan is high-quality and BPA-free, some coffee purists will always prefer the inert nature of glass.

Expert’s Experience
* Durable Tritan Construction: In my experience, the Tritan material is the Takeya‘s biggest selling point. I never worried about it cracking from thermal shock when adding cold water or breaking from an accidental bump. It feels solid and built for long-term performance.
* Airtight Seal & Ergonomics: The silicone handle is a thoughtful touch that makes a real difference in daily use. The airtight seal was 100% effective in my testing; it preserved the coffee’s freshness for over a week and prevented any coffee smell from permeating my fridge, which is a common issue with cheaper makers.
* Brewing Performance & Cleanup: It produces a consistently smooth, low-acid concentrate with very little sediment. The brew is clean and rich. While most parts are dishwasher safe, I personally found that hand-washing the filter immediately after emptying the grounds was the most effective cleaning method to keep it in top shape.

Best for Large Batches: 64oz Mason Jar Pitcher Review

For dedicated cold brew drinkers or families who go through coffee quickly, the 64oz Mason Jar Pitcher is the perfect solution. It combines a massive capacity with the classic, rustic aesthetic of a glass mason jar and a high-quality stainless steel filter. It’s the ideal choice for making a week’s worth of coffee at once.

Specifications:
* Capacity: 64 Ounces / 2 Quart
* Material: Heavy Duty Soda Lime Glass
* Filter: 304 Stainless Steel, 160 Micron Weave
* Lid: Pour Spout Handle Lid with Flip Cap
* Seal: Airtight Silicone Ring
* Cleaning: Dishwasher-Safe (Jar), Hand Wash Recommended (Filter)

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Massive 64oz Capacity: This is the primary reason to buy this model. It’s tied for the largest capacity on my list and is perfect for prepping enough cold brew to last an entire week, saving you time and effort.
* ✅ High-Quality Stainless Steel Filter: The metal filter feels significantly more durable than the plastic mesh filters found in many budget brewers. The 160-micron weave does an excellent job of keeping coarse coffee grounds out of the final brew, resulting in a clean cup.
* ✅ Classic Farmhouse Aesthetic: The mason jar design is timeless. It looks fantastic sitting on a kitchen counter or inside the fridge, adding a touch of style that plastic pitchers can’t match.
* ✅ Extremely Easy to Clean Jar: The wide mouth of the jar is a huge advantage for cleaning. You can easily fit your entire hand inside to scrub it, and it’s completely dishwasher safe.
* ✅ Includes a Cleaning Brush: The package comes with a dedicated brush for the filter, which is a thoughtful and necessary accessory. It makes dislodging stubborn grounds from the stainless steel mesh much easier.
* ✅ Great for More Than Coffee: Since the filter is removable, the glass pitcher can be used for iced tea, lemonade, or infused water, adding to its overall value.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Glass Is Inherently Fragile: While the glass feels thick and heavy-duty, it’s still glass. You need to be careful when handling it, especially in a crowded sink or when making big temperature changes (like adding hot water to a cold jar).
* ❌ Bulky Refrigerator Footprint: The wide, round design of the jar takes up more shelf space inside the refrigerator compared to the taller, slimmer pitchers like the Takeya. It likely won’t fit in your fridge door.
* ❌ Lid Isn’t 100% Leak-Proof for Shaking: The flip-top pour spout is convenient, but it’s not designed for aggressive shaking. It’s airtight for storage but not as securely sealed as a screw-on lid if you turn it upside down.

Expert’s Experience
* Glass Quality & Capacity: The heavy-duty glass feels substantial and well-made, but I was always conscious of its fragility during my testing period. The main selling point is the large capacity, and it absolutely delivers on that promise. I made a full batch that lasted me six days.
* Filter & Lid Design: I was very impressed by the stainless steel filter. Its fine mesh produced a very clean brew with minimal sediment. The flip-top lid is convenient for pouring directly from the fridge, though I did miss the ability to shake the brewer like I could with the Takeya.
* Ease of Cleaning: This was the easiest jar to clean of all the models I tested, thanks to its wide mouth. The included cleaning brush is essential for the filter; I spent a couple of minutes scrubbing it after each use to keep it pristine. The overall cleaning process is straightforward.

Best Glass Option: Primula Burke Deluxe Review

For those who are committed to brewing in glass to avoid plastic, the Primula Burke Deluxe Cold Brew Iced Coffee Maker is a fantastic and affordable choice. It offers a classic, streamlined design that’s incredibly user-friendly and delivers the pure, untainted flavor that only a glass carafe can provide.

Specifications:
* Capacity: 1.6 Quart / 52 Ounces
* Material: Durable Glass Carafe
* Filter: Removable Fine Mesh Filter
* Handle: Comfort Grip Plastic Handle
* Base: Non-Slip Silicone Base
* Cleaning: Dishwasher-Safe

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Pure-Tasting Coffee: The non-porous durable glass carafe is the main attraction. It ensures that no outside flavors, stains, or odors are absorbed into the material, resulting in an exceptionally clean-tasting coffee concentrate.
* ✅ Elegant and Streamlined Design: It’s simple, attractive, and has a professional look. The tall, slim profile fits easily on most refrigerator doors or shelves, making it a great space-saver.
* ✅ Effortless Cleanup Process: The entire unit is dishwasher safe. The simple, three-part construction (carafe, filter, lid) makes hand-washing a quick and hassle-free task. There are no complex nooks for grounds to hide in.
* ✅ Exceptional Value for Money: This is often one of the most budget-friendly glass options on the market. It delivers reliable results and good build quality for a very low price point.
* ✅ Protective Silicone Base: The non-slip silicone base is a smart feature that adds a layer of protection against bumps on hard countertops and prevents the pitcher from sliding.
* ✅ Comfortable Handling: The large, ergonomic “Comfort Grip” handle makes pouring from the 52-ounce pitcher feel secure and balanced, even when it’s completely full.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Mesh Filter Allows Some Sediment: The filter mesh is not as fine as the ones in the Takeya or Maestri House models. As a result, a small amount of ultra-fine sediment (sludge) can make its way into the final brew.
* ❌ Handle Feels Less Robust: The plastic handle and lid assembly doesn’t feel as premium or durable as the glass body itself. It’s the potential weak point in the design over the long term.
* ❌ Breakable by Nature: This is the trade-off for choosing glass. The carafe is susceptible to breaking if dropped or subjected to extreme thermal shock (e.g., pouring hot water into a cold carafe). Workaround: Always handle with care and wash with warm, not scalding, water to prevent cracking.

Expert’s Experience
* Build & Materials: The glass carafe is the star here. It feels sturdy for a glass pitcher and looks great. The handle is functional, but I treated it with a bit more care as it felt less substantial than the rest of the unit. The silicone base is a great, practical addition.
* Brewing & Filtration: The brewing process is dead simple and produces a good, smooth-tasting cold brew. To get an even cleaner cup, I tried pouring the final concentrate through a paper filter once, which successfully removed the last bit of fine sediment. However, for most users, this extra step isn’t necessary.
* Cleaning & Handling: This was one of the easiest brewers to clean. All the parts separate without effort, and the wide-mouthed carafe is simple to scrub. The comfortable handle really does make pouring secure and drip-free.

Best for Ultra-Smooth Brew: Maestri House Compact Review

For the cold brew perfectionist who despises any hint of “sludge” or residue in their cup, the Maestri House Compact Cold Brew Coffee Maker is the clear winner. Its advanced filtration system and thoughtful design features prioritize a clean, sediment-free brew above all else, all while being housed in a durable Tritan body.

Specifications:
* Capacity: 40 Ounces
* Material: BPA-Free Tritan
* Filter: 350-Mesh Ultra-Fine Filter with Removable Bottom
* Seal: 100% Leak-Proof Lid
* Features: Ratio markings on pitcher and filter
* Cleaning: Dishwasher-Safe

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Exceptional, Sludge-Free Filtration: The 350-mesh filter is significantly finer than any other on this list. It produces a remarkably clean and silky-smooth concentrate that is virtually free of any sediment. The difference was noticeable in my side-by-side comparisons.
* ✅ Game-Changing Easy-to-Clean Filter: The bottom of the filter core unscrews, allowing you to flush out all the used grounds from both ends. This is a brilliant design feature that makes it the easiest filter to clean thoroughly.
* ✅ Helpful Ratio Markings for Beginners: The pitcher and filter have clear markings for different coffee-to-water ratios (e.g., 60g, 80g, 100g). This is perfect for beginners who are trying to dial in their perfect brew strength without using a scale.
* ✅ Shatter-Proof and Durable Body: Like the Takeya, the BPA-Free Tritan construction provides total peace of mind. You don’t have to worry about dropping it or thermal shock.
* ✅ Truly Leak-Proof Seal: The lid design is excellent and passed my shake and side-storage tests with a 100% leak-proof result. It seals in freshness perfectly.
* ✅ Smart Design Details: A small cover for the powder compartment prevents grounds from floating up, ensuring they stay fully immersed for better extraction.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Smaller Capacity: At 40oz, it’s a great size for one or two people, but it might be too small for heavy coffee drinkers or families who want to prep for a full week. You’ll be brewing more often.
* ❌ More Small Parts to Manage: With a removable filter bottom and a powder compartment cover, there are a few more small pieces to keep track of during cleaning and assembly compared to simpler models.
* ❌ Takes Longer to Drain: Because the filter is so fine, it can take a bit longer for the water to fully drain through the grounds when you’re done steeping. It’s a minor patience test.

Expert’s Experience
* Precision Brewing & Ratios: The ratio markings are genuinely useful. During my hands-on testing, I used them to experiment with different concentrations and found it much easier than weighing grounds separately. It’s a great educational tool for new home brewers.
* Ultra-Fine Filtration System: I was deeply impressed with the brew quality. It was noticeably smoother and cleaner than the brews from standard mesh filters. The “no residue” claim is very close to reality. It’s as smooth as you can get from an immersion brewer.
* Durability & Ease of Cleaning: The durable Tritan body is excellent, but the real standout feature is the filter design. Being able to open both ends makes it the easiest filter to clean completely of all the models I tested. No more hidden grounds.

Best for Small Spaces: Takeya 1-Quart Review

The Takeya 1-Quart Tritan Cold Brew Coffee Maker is the compact, space-saving version of my “Best Overall” pick. It offers all the same fantastic benefits—incredible durability, a truly leak-proof lid, and simple operation—in a smaller, fridge-door-friendly package that’s perfect for individuals, couples, or anyone with limited kitchen space.

Specifications:
* Capacity: 1 Quart / 32 Ounces
* Material: BPA-Free Tritan Plastic
* Filter: Fine-Mesh Core
* Seal: Airtight, Leak-Proof Lid
* Handle: Non-Slip Silicone Handle
* Cleaning: Dishwasher-Safe

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Perfect for Small Batches: The 1-quart size is ideal for 1-2 people. It makes about 4 servings of concentrate, ensuring your cold brew is always fresh and you aren’t storing it for too long.
* ✅ Extremely Compact & Space-Saving: This is a major advantage for those with small kitchens. It fits perfectly in any refrigerator door, making it a great choice for dorm rooms, small apartments, campers, or RVs.
* ✅ Durable and 100% Leak-Proof: It shares the same excellent Tritan construction and airtight lid as its larger 2-quart sibling. It’s built to last and can be shaken or stored on its side without a single drop escaping.
* ✅ Simple, Reliable, and Uncomplicated: It’s the definition of a “set it and forget it” brewing system. The process is foolproof, and it delivers consistent results every single time.
* ✅ Affordable and Great Value: As one of the most affordable options from a trusted brand, it provides incredible value for money. It’s a low-risk, high-reward entry into making cold brew at home.
* ✅ Lightweight and Easy to Handle: The smaller size and lightweight material make it very easy to manage, even when full.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Too Small for a Crowd: This is its main limitation. If you have guests over or drink more than a couple of glasses of cold brew per day, you’ll find yourself needing to brew a new batch almost daily.
* ❌ Same Filter Cleaning Issue: It shares the same minor annoyance as the 2-quart model where very fine coffee grounds can get trapped deep in the filter mesh, requiring a thorough rinse or brush. Workaround: Again, rinsing the filter immediately after brewing is the best way to prevent grounds from drying and sticking.
* ❌ Grounds Capacity is Limited: To get a strong concentrate, you need to fill the filter core nearly to the top with grounds, which doesn’t leave much room for error.

Expert’s Experience
* Compact Design & Materials: This brewer is feather-light yet feels incredibly robust. Its small fridge-friendly size is its biggest strength. During my testing, it took up minimal space while still feeling like a well-made, premium product.
* Filtration & Brew Quality: The brew quality is identical to the larger Takeya—smooth, low-acid, and delicious. The fine-mesh filter works effectively to keep the vast majority of sediment out of your concentrate, delivering a clean cup.
* Handling & Airtight Storage: The airtight lid is perfect for a small brewer. I could confidently store it anywhere in my packed fridge without worrying about spills or flavor contamination from other foods. It’s an excellent, reliable daily driver for one person.

Budget Cold Brew Maker Comparison Chart

To help you visualize the key differences, here is a side-by-side look at how these five budget-friendly cold brew makers stack up against each other.

Feature	Takeya 2-Quart	Mason Jar Pitcher	Primula Burke	Maestri House	Takeya 1-Quart
Category	Best Overall	Best for Large Batches	Best Glass Option	Best for Ultra-Smooth Brew	Best for Small Spaces
Capacity	64 oz	64 oz	52 oz	40 oz	32 oz
Material	Tritan (Plastic)	Glass	Glass	Tritan (Plastic)	Tritan (Plastic)
Filter Type	Fine Mesh	Stainless Steel Mesh	Fine Mesh	Ultra-Fine Mesh	Fine Mesh
Best For	All-around daily use	Making a week’s supply	Purity of glass brewing	Zero-sediment purists	Individuals & small fridges
My Rating	4.8/5 ⭐	4.5/5 ⭐	4.3/5 ⭐	4.7/5 ⭐	4.6/5 ⭐

Comparison Analysis:

In my analysis, the biggest trade-off in the sub-$50 category is between durability and material preference. The Tritan models like the Takeya and Maestri House offer superior durability and peace of mind against breakage, which is a huge plus for daily use. Meanwhile, the Primula Burke and Mason Jar Pitcher appeal to those who strongly prefer brewing in non-porous glass for flavor purity.

Your choice largely comes down to capacity and your tolerance for sediment. If you need a massive volume of coffee to get through the week, the 64oz Mason Jar Pitcher is a great, stylish pick. If you absolutely cannot stand any fine particles in your coffee, the Maestri House and its ultra-fine filter is the undeniable winner and worth the slightly smaller capacity.

However, for most people seeking the best balance of all features—durability, capacity, ease of use, and a great seal—the Takeya 2-Quart remains my top recommendation. It simply represents the best overall value for money.

Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose the Right Cold Brew Pitcher

Choosing the right affordable cold brew maker isn’t just about the price tag; it’s about matching the material, size, and filter to your lifestyle. Use these key factors I focused on during my testing to guide your decision.

• Material: Glass vs. Plastic (Tritan): This is your first and most significant decision.
  • Glass, used in the Primula Burke, is non-porous, meaning it won’t stain or absorb odors, which some coffee purists insist results in the purest flavor. The downside is its fragility.
  • BPA-free Tritan plastic, used by Takeya and Maestri House, is shatter-proof, lightweight, and incredibly durable for daily use. If you have a busy kitchen, kids, or are just a bit clumsy, I strongly recommend Tritan.
• Capacity and Size: How much coffee do you really drink?
  • A 1-quart (32oz) brewer like the smaller Takeya is perfect for one person’s daily needs or for couples who drink coffee moderately.
  • A 2-quart (64oz) model is much better for families, multiple coffee drinkers, or anyone who wants to prep coffee for several days at a time. Also, measure your fridge shelf or door space. Slim pitchers are more space-efficient than wide jars.
• Filter Quality and Type: The filter is the heart of your brewer and is critical for a non-gritty concentrate.
  • Standard mesh filters (like in the Primula and Takeya) are good and capture most grounds.
  • Stainless steel mesh filters (like in the Mason Jar pitcher) tend to be more durable over the long run.
  • For the smoothest, most sediment-free coffee, look for an “ultra-fine” mesh, like the 350-mesh one in the Maestri House. The difference in brew clarity is real.
• Lid and Seal: An airtight, leak-proof lid is crucial. It not only prevents spills in a crowded fridge but, more importantly, it locks in freshness and stops your delicate coffee from absorbing savory food odors (like last night’s garlic pasta). Screw-on lids like Takeya’s offer the most secure seal, allowing you to shake the brewer to fully saturate the grounds.

• Ease of Cleaning: A brewer you dread cleaning is a brewer you won’t use. Look for models that are fully dishwasher-safe. Wide-mouth carafes are much easier to hand-wash. I place a high value on filters that are easy to rinse out completely, with removable bottoms (like the Maestri House) being a huge, game-changing plus.

• Ergonomics and Handling: Don’t overlook the small details. Consider the handle and spout. A comfortable, non-slip grip makes pouring a full, heavy pitcher much safer and easier. A well-designed spout will pour a smooth stream without dripping down the side of the pitcher.

FAQs About Best Cheap Cold Brew Coffee Makers

Is a cold brew maker worth it?

Yes, absolutely. If you currently spend money on cafe or store-bought cold brew, a budget-friendly home cold brew maker will likely pay for itself in just a few weeks. You gain complete control over the coffee bean quality, the brew strength, and the freshness of your coffee, all for a fraction of the daily cost.

Is glass or plastic better for cold brew makers?

It’s a trade-off between purity and durability. Glass is completely non-porous and will never stain or absorb flavors, which some purists prefer. However, it’s fragile. High-quality, BPA-free Tritan plastic is shatter-proof and lightweight, making it far more durable and practical for everyday use. For a budget maker that will last, I lean towards the durability of Tritan plastic.

How do I avoid sediment in my cold brew?

First, always use a very coarse grind for your coffee beans, similar in texture to rough breadcrumbs. Second, choose a brewer with a high-quality filter; an ultra-fine mesh works best. The Maestri House was the best at this in my tests. Lastly, when you pour the concentrate, do it slowly and leave the very last tablespoon or so at the bottom of the pitcher, as this is where the finest sediment settles.

Which budget cold brew maker is easiest to clean?

In my testing, models with wide-mouth carafes and filters with removable bottoms are the easiest to clean. The Maestri House Compact was the standout winner in this category.** Its filter opens at both ends, making it incredibly simple to flush out every last coffee ground with just a quick rinse.

How much coffee grounds for 1 quart of cold brew?

A great starting ratio is 1:8 of coffee to water by weight. For a 1-quart (which holds about 32oz or 900g of water) maker, you would use around 112 grams of coarse coffee grounds. You can easily adjust this ratio up or down depending on how strong you like your concentrate.

How long does cold brew last in the fridge?

Stored in an airtight pitcher, cold brew concentrate will stay fresh and delicious for 7 to 10 days. After that, the delicate flavors will begin to degrade and it can taste stale. It’s always best to only make as much as you know you’ll drink within a week.

Can I use a French press instead of a cold brew maker?

Yes, you can absolutely make cold brew in a French press, and it’s a great way to try the method without buying new equipment. The process is similar: steep coarse grounds in cold water for 12-24 hours, then plunge. However, dedicated cold brew makers often have finer filters for a cleaner brew and airtight lids for much better and longer storage in the fridge.

Why does my home cold brew taste bitter?

Bitterness in cold brew is almost always caused by two things: over-extraction from steeping for too long (going past 24 hours), or using coffee grounds that are too fine. Try reducing your brew time to the 12-18 hour range and make sure your coffee grind is very coarse.

Does the filter quality matter in cheap cold brew makers?

Yes, it matters immensely. The filter is the single most important component responsible for separating the grounds from the water. A cheap, poor-quality filter will allow fine particles through, leading to a gritty, muddy brew. A fine-mesh or ultra-fine-mesh filter is essential for producing a smooth, enjoyable concentrate.

What is the cheapest way to make cold brew?

The absolute cheapest method is to use a large mason jar you already own and filter the grounds using cheesecloth or a reusable nut milk bag. However, this method is very messy and often inconsistent. For just a bit more money, a dedicated budget cold brew maker like the ones on this list provides a much cleaner, less wasteful, and more consistent result.

My Final Verdict

After brewing dozens of batches, living with these machines in my kitchen, and cleaning them repeatedly, my final verdict is clear. While every cold brew maker on this list offers fantastic value and a path to delicious coffee, one stands out for its perfect blend of durability, simplicity, and consistently excellent performance.

My top recommendation and the best cheap cold brew coffee maker is the Takeya 2-Quart Cold Brew Maker. Its shatter-proof Tritan body removes any fear of breakage, the best-in-class airtight lid preserves freshness better than any other, and it simply produces a delicious, smooth brew every time without any fuss. It is the most reliable and user-friendly option for the vast majority of people.

This brewer is perfect for you if…
* You value durability and want a brewer that can withstand daily use.
* You need a large capacity to make coffee for several days.
* You want a truly leak-proof seal for shaking and easy storage.
* You prefer a simple, no-frills brewing process that just works.

This brewer is not ideal for…
* You are a purist who will only brew in glass.
* You need the absolute finest filtration to remove every speck of sediment.
* You have an extremely small refrigerator with no door space.

If you are a perfectionist who detests any sediment and values precision, the Maestri House Compact is a phenomenal alternative. Its ultra-fine, easy-to-clean filter is a game-changer for brew quality. But for the best all-around value, you can’t go wrong with the Takeya 2-Quart Cold Brew Maker.

Last update on 2026-02-27 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API