Move over pumpkin spice. There’s a way better, all-year ingredient taking the coffee scene by storm – nitrogen.
Characterized by a creamy texture, foamy top, and sweet, smooth flavor, nitro cold brew has exploded in popularity since it was first introduced by Cuvee Coffee in 2012.
Every local shop wants to get its hands on the best nitro cold brew maker to hop on the 904% increase in menu presence that nitrogen-infused coffee drinks have seen in the past few years.
But, what’s the right machine for you?
This article seeks to answer that question by outlining the best nitro cold brew coffee maker systems available on the market today. Keep reading to learn what you need to know to make an informed decision.
What Makes The Best Nitro Cold Brew Coffee Maker: Key Features
Before we get on to giving the title of ‘best nitro cold brew coffee maker’ to any one machine, it’s worth defining what that actually looks like. Read below for a breakdown of the key factors we’ll be considering in this article.
Durability: The best nitro cold brew maker is one that is built to last. Look for materials like stainless steel or BPA-free plastic.
Nitrogen Cartridge Compatibility: The coffee maker should be compatible with the right type of nitrogen cartridges (N2 or N2O) for optimal performance.
Serving Size: It’s preferable to have a versatile system with various settings. Some models allow you to make single servings, while others can produce larger batches per run.
Ease of Use: User-friendly design is important to ensure both convenient brewing as well as efficient cleaning and maintenance.
Brand Reputation: Reputable brands with warranties and customer testimonials deliver added peace of mind to buyers.
Is nitrogen better than nitrous oxide for Nitro cold brew?
This is a question you’ll begin asking yourself upon exploring the various systems out there today. The easiest answer we can give is that nitrogen machines are almost always better. Nitrous oxide can create a similar effect, but its increased solubility ultimately results in less of a smooth and creamy mouthfeel.
The Best Nitro Cold Brew Coffee Makers for Commercial Use
DRNX Duo
Looking for the all-around best nitro cold brew maker available today? You’ve found it in DRNX DUO.
This high-efficiency commercial nitro cold brew coffee system features two taps for serving nitro coffee and syrups. Customers love how seamlessly they can switch between cold brew and nitro coffee with the push of a button, and how easy it is to adjust recipes for different flavor profiles.
Durability: Crafted in Canada, DRNX DUO has got the ‘cold’ part of cold brew down to a tee. There’s no beating its ability to withstand extreme temperatures, and its high-grade stainless steel construction ensures it won’t be corroding anytime soon.
Nitrogen Cartridge Compatibility: This machine’s tankless, atmospheric nitrogen infusion process is about as straightforward as it gets.
Serving Size: Dual beverage capability means the DRNX DUO can pour every 12 seconds.
Ease of Use: Users can easily customize the nitrogen infusion process with precise control of pressure, temperature, and volume.
Brand Reputation: BROOD is known for crafting products with high standards, and this system is no exception.
Cost: The DRNX DUO system might cost you a little more than the average off-the-shelf coffee maker, but that expense is more than worthwhile considering the features it offers.
Pros:
Dispenses both nitro and still cold brew from one tap.
Extracts nitrogen from the air, no need for tanks.
Works with various beverage containers.
Quick and easy plug-and-play setup.
Consistent pour quality.
Rapid on-demand chilling.
Suitable for various drinks.
Compact, customizable design.
Cons:
Higher initial cost.
BUNN Nitron Cold Draft
Next up on our rundown of best nitro cold brew coffee makers is the BUNN Nitron. It stands out for a number of reasons, namely a proprietary dispenser and self-contained design.
Durability: The BUNN Nitron is tall and sturdy, featuring a 10-inch wide metal frame that can be customized with an 11″ x 6.6″ graphic panel.
Nitrogen Cartridge Compatibility: This system requires single or half-gallon concentrate BIBs to work. BUNN refillable containers are compatible with ball-valve models.
Serving Size: The machine comes with two nitro/still or nitro/nitro taps, allowing users to double their serving capacity.
Ease of Use: Featuring simple pull-down handlebars, the BUNN Nitron is as simple to operate as any other bar top dispenser.
Brand Reputation: While the company has a decent standing overall, there’s something to be said about BUNN’s choice to void this machine’s warranty for non-commercial customers.
Cost: The BUNN Nitron cold brew coffee maker can get pricey depending on how well-equipped you want it. Expect to pay anywhere between $4,200 and $10,000.
Pros:
Can create micro-bubbles with BUNN’s patented gas infusion technology.
Quality brass tap handles.
Serves two different nitrogenated beverages.
Uses one-gallon BIB concentrates, ideal for high-demand applications.
Refrigerated cabinet preserves flavor.
Service-friendly design for easy setup and maintenance.
Cons:
Higher initial cost.
Residential use voids the warranty.
DRNX
What if you don’t just want the best nitro cold brew maker, but the best tea, hot chocolate, and cocktail maker, as well? It’s simple – go with the DRNX espresso martini machine. Another high-capacity creation from BROOD, this system hones the multidisciplinary capability to pour beverages of all kinds with no additional setup required.
Durability: The DRNX nitro drink maker is crafted with commercial-grade stainless steel in Canada.
Nitrogen Cartridge Compatibility: The system’s proprietary tankless design infuses atmospheric nitrogen without tanks or complex plumbing.
Serving Size: Have five thirsty friends? You’ll be able to serve them all in under a minute with this machine’s rapid pour rate.
Ease of Use: An intuitive design with a dial for easy switching between nitro and still beverages makes the DRNX a perfect choice for home and business owners who want to serve top-quality drinks with less effort.
Brand Reputation: Expertly crafted to the highest standards of excellence, DRNX is just the latest example of BROOD’s commitment to exceptional quality and reliable performance.
Cost: This machine is relatively expensive compared to other products on the market, but that premium comes with a load of value that many buyers would consider more than worth it.
Pros:
Pours five drinks per minute.
Uses advanced cooling technology to pour ice-cold brews.
Can infuse nitrogen to create everything from creamy cocktails to morning coffee with a kick.
Ultra-fast service.
Customizable design.
No need for nitrogen tanks.
Cons:
Relatively high initial cost.
Primarily intended for commercial use.
Cold Brew Coffee Kegerator - Dual Tap for Iced and Nitro Coffee
We’ll be straightforward by saying that The Cold Brew Coffee Kegerator isn’t the absolute best nitro cold brew coffee maker available today. It still performs well on several fronts though, earning fair consideration from less detail-focused buyers.
Durability: Hardcore brewers will appreciate this product’s holistic stainless steel structure, which proves to be a necessity when serving acidic drinks like coffee.
Nitrogen Cartridge Compatibility: The Cold Brew Coffee Kegerator needs a nitrogen tank to work. You’ll need to buy one separately.
Serving Size: This machine has a sizable 64 oz. standard liquid volume capacity but isn’t very fast-pouring.
Ease of Use: The system’s hoses and disconnects need to be plugged into the right places. Its dual-body nitrogen regulator simplifies dispensing control
Brand Reputation: Warnings for cancer and reproductive harm are mentioned in the product’s official documentation.
Cost: No pre-included cold brew coffee kegs or nitrogen tank means that you’ll have to pay out-of-pocket costs in addition to the sale price.
Pros:
Stainless steel components for durability.
Dual taps for beverage variety.
High-quality materials.
Dual body nitrogen regulator for pressure control.
Complete kit for easy setup.
Cons:
Kegs and nitrogen tank not included.
Assembly required.
Shipping restrictions apply.
The Best Nitro Cold Brew Coffee Makers for Household Use
DRNX BRW
The DRNX BRW is the pinnacle of what it means to be a capable nitro cold brew coffee maker. Its refrigerated internal reservoir eliminates the need for tanks or plumbing while making drink crafting that much easier. One key characteristic differentiating it from most systems sold today, this system is capable of dispensing nitro and still cold brew in addition to brewing coffee. Easily the best nitro cold brew coffee maker for smaller-scale operations that want to do it all.
Durability: Crafted in Canada to last, the DRNX BRW is made with heavy-duty stainless steel that holds up against continuous use. Its insulated walls and cooling system keep your cold brew icy for days while maintaining its oxygen-infused nitro texture.
Nitrogen Cartridge Compatibility: The proprietary tankless system’s atmospheric nitrogen infusion process requires no tanks, complex plumbing, or additional cartridges.
Serving Size: A 1.5-gallon internal reservoir gives DRNX BRW the ability to pour five drinks per minute.
Ease of Use: This cold brew coffee maker boasts a stylish and intuitive design complete with a dial for easy control between nitro and still settings.
Brand Reputation: DRNX BRW has earned its reputation as an industry leader, and sits sigh among BROOD’s other top contenders for the title of ‘best nitro cold brew coffee maker’.
Cost: Buyers can expect to pay slightly more for this unit’s advanced suite of features and drink-making capabilities.
Pros:
Dispenses both nitro and still cold brew.
Quick setup and consistent coffee temperature.
Compact and customizable.
Cons:
Higher initial cost.
GrowlerWerks uKeg Nitro Cold Brew Coffee Maker
The GrowlerWerks uKeg Nitro Cold Brew Coffee Maker easily ranks among the best nitro cold brew coffee makers for household use thanks to its blend of simple yet cafe-quality features.
Durability: Featuring a double wall with 18/8 stainless steel vacuum insulation, there’s no question that this unit is made to last on your kitchen countertop.
Nitrogen Cartridge Compatibility: GrowlerWerks’ uKeg Nitro Cold Brew Coffee Maker uses its own patented Nitro pressurization system to source and condense gas. Two nitrogen gas chargers are included.
Serving Size: 64 oz (12 coffee cups) capacity is more than enough for most households.
Ease of Use: The uKeg’s modern stainless steel design is both attractive and functional. It comes with a regulator cap for optimal pressure, a double filtration system to prevent clogging, and a custom pressure gauge.
Brand Reputation: GrowlerWerks’ reputation as a leading manufacturer of premium home brewing and beverage equipment is well established.
Cost: At $300, this machine is pretty inexpensive compared to the commercial-grade models we’re looking at today.
Pros:
Consistent nitro coffee.
Customizable gas control.
Robust stainless steel build.
Keeps coffee cold.
Easy pouring.
Cons:
Bulkier and less portable.
Higher initial cost.
Slightly more complex cleaning process.
Royal Brew Nitro Cold Brew Coffee Maker
The Royal Brew Nitro Cold Brew Coffee Maker is a durable and reliable appliance for delightful nitro-infused coffee at home. Customers across the board call it one of the best nitro coffee makers they’ve ever bought, with a few reservations of course.
Durability: The unit itself is made from food-grade stainless steel and painted matte black for a little extra class.
Nitrogen Cartridge Compatibility: This system only accepts 8g nitrous oxide and 2g nitrogen cartridges, neither of which are included with its purchase.
Serving Size: A 64 oz keg limits the share of coffee in each brew by roughly 50%-25%.
Ease of Use: Dual-action pour function works excellently in busy environments, while two included cleaning brushes and other accessories make cleaning easier.
Brand Reputation: The Royal Brew Nitro Cold Brew Coffee Maker is backed by a one-year manufacturer warranty.
Cost: Priced at $209.00 with free shipping, this machine is among the cheapest on our list.
Pros:
Smooth and rich flavor.
Original Model comes with a sleek Matte Black Stainless Steel Keg.
Compatible with 2g nitrogen or N2O cartridges.
Dual pour function.
Cons:
Gas cartridges not included.
Size limitation of 64 oz.
No control over foaming.
The Best Nitro Cold Brew Coffee Makers With Portable Size
NitroPress Portable Nitro Coffee Maker
Although it could easily score well within the category of best home nitro cold brew coffee maker, we wanted to differentiate the NitroPress’ compact design from other products.
Durability: The NitroPress is especially poised to last thanks to its small footprint and stainless steel body.
Nitrogen Cartridge Compatibility: This machine uses NitroPress N2 chargers for nitrogen infusion, which are sold separately.
Serving Size: Designed for individual or batch servings of various cold beverages, the NitroPress can handle crowds.
Ease of Use: The NitroPress is portable, countertop-friendly, and dishwasher-safe.
Brand Reputation: With a two-year warranty that covers professional and home use, buyers can feel confident in their purchase.
Cost: While size may factor into the equation, The NitroPress machine is very low priced at only $179.99.
Pros:
Instant nitro infusion adds nitrogen to beverages of all kinds.
Easy to use.
Great for kitchens, bars, and homes.
Dispenses pure nitrogen with minimal foam.
Countertop-friendly.
Stainless steel and dishwasher-safe.
Cons:
Fewer advanced features.
Needs NitroPress N2 cartridges.
GrowlerWerks uKeg Nitro Cold Brew Coffee Maker
The GrowlerWerks uKeg is a premium nitro cold brew coffee maker that lets the everyday brew enthusiast play barista for the day. It’s the best home nitro cold brew coffee maker for those without access to a professional nitro tap.
Durability: The unit’s double wall vacuum insulation is an industry standard, while its stainless steel construction guarantees resistance to regular wear and spills.
Nitrogen Cartridge Compatibility: Two included nitrogen gas chargers work together to produce thick, creamy cold brew coffee with robust foam.
Serving Size: With a 64 oz capacity, you can reasonably brew 12 cups per run of this machine.
Ease of Use: This system comes with features like a regulator cap, double filtration system, and custom pressure gauge.
Cost: Prices for the GrowlerWerks uKeg range between $250 and $300.
Pros:
Patented nitro pressurization keeps brews fresh and creamy for weeks.
Double filtration.
Custom pressure gauge.
Cons:
Gas cartridge setup could be simpler.
Requires consistent cleaning and lubrication.
Relatively high upfront price.
Nitro Cold Brew Coffee Maker NCNTROCB10
No, the Pyle NCNTROCB10 isn’t a robot or one of Elon Musk’s creatively named children. It’s the last item on our list of best nitro coffee machine systems.
Durability: Food-grade 304 stainless steel poises this brewer for long-term use in the kitchen.
Nitrogen Cartridge Compatibility: The Pyle NCNTROCB10 uses 8g N20 cartridges with a pressure-relieving valve capable of handling 75 PSI.
Serving Size: 64 oz. capacity is on par with most coffee machines.
Ease of Use: It’s easy to assemble and clean, but can’t go in the dishwasher, microwave, or freezer.
Brand Reputation: Pyle’s reputation in the coffee industry is solid and backed by positive reviews.
Cost: At $235.99, the Pyle NCNTROCB10 is averagely priced amongst its competitors.
Pros:
Portable size.
Easy to assemble.
Durable stainless steel construction.
Positive customer reviews.
Cons:
N20 cartridges not included.
Not compatible with dishwasher, microwave, or freezer.
Cannot handle hot or highly acidic liquids.
Verdicts
Our picks for the best nitro cold brew coffee maker by category include…
Best Nitro Cold Brew Maker Overall: DRNX
Compact and intelligently built with separate parts, DRNX’s tankless nitrogen system can make both coffee and premixed cocktails.
Best Portable Nitro Cold Brew Maker: NitroPress
Those who want to brew on the road will love the NitroPress 500mL 16 oz system’s portable build.
Best for Larger Brewing Capacity: BUNN Nitron Cold Draft
A built-in air compressor and easy maintenance process make the BUNN Nitron Cold Draft the best nitro cold brew maker for commercial uses.
Best Nitro Cold Brew Coffee Maker for Home Use: DRNX BRW
Touting advanced atmospheric nitrogen extraction capabilities, DRNX BRW is a powerful addition to home kitchens everywhere.
Parting Words
The biggest takeaway from all this is that there’s no single best home nitro cold brew system; what makes a machine the best nitro coffee maker differs from buyer to buyer, with factors like portability, durability, and capacity all playing a role. One question we can definitely answer, though, is whether nitro cold brew is worth it. The answer is a resounding yes! It is absolutely worth trying at least once to see what all the hype is about.
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