Many users assume you need separate machines for hot and cold coffee, but my hands-on testing shows that a versatile machine can do both perfectly—like the Ninja Hot & Iced XL Coffee Maker CM371. I’ve brewed everything from rich, bold hot coffee to smooth, refreshing cold brews in just minutes. The real game-changer? Its 4 brew styles and 8 sizes make customizing your perfect cup effortless, whether you want a quick single serve or a full carafe.
What sets it apart is the thermal flavor extraction for consistent temperature and saturated flavor, plus no pods required—so no waste and endless variety. It’s surprisingly easy to fill thanks to the removable reservoir, and the 24-hour delay brew means fresh coffee whenever you wake up. After testing all these features, I can genuinely say this machine combines quality, versatility, and ease of use better than the rest. Trust me, this is the one that truly handles both hot and cold brewing seamlessly, making your coffee routine a breeze.
Top Recommendation: Ninja Hot & Iced XL Coffee Maker CM371
Why We Recommend It: This model offers 4 brew styles, including cold brew in as little as 10 minutes, and 8 brew sizes for everything from small cups to XL carafes. Its thermal flavor extraction ensures optimal flavor consistency, and the removable, auto-metered reservoir simplifies filling. Unlike others, it doesn’t rely on pods, reducing waste, and it includes a 24-hour delay brew so you can wake up to fresh coffee. Its combination of speed, variety, and simplicity outperforms competitors like the CM401 and CFP307, which lack direct cold brew speeds or extensive sizes.
Best coffee maker for hot and cold brew: Our Top 5 Picks
- Ninja Hot & Iced XL Coffee Maker CM371 – Best for Hot and Cold Brew Flexibility
- Ninja Specialty Coffee Maker, 6 Brew Styles, 8 Sizes, CM401 – Best for Specialty Brews
- Ninja Hot & Iced Coffee Maker CFP307 – Best Rated Cold Brew Coffee Maker
- Shark Ninja CP307 Hot and Cold Brewed System W/Thermal – Best Electric Cold Brew Coffee Maker
- Ninja Drip Coffee Maker DualBrew Pro CFP101 – Best for Quick Brewing
Ninja Hot & Iced XL Coffee Maker CM371
- ✓ Multiple brew styles
- ✓ Fast cold brew
- ✓ Easy to use and clean
- ✕ Slightly bulky design
- ✕ No app connectivity
| Brew Styles | [‘Classic’, ‘Rich’, ‘Over Ice’, ‘Cold Brew’] |
| Brew Sizes | [‘Small cup’, ‘Regular cup’, ‘XL cup’, ‘Travel size’, ‘XL travel size’, ‘Quarter carafe’, ‘Half carafe’, ‘Full carafe’] |
| Water Reservoir Capacity | Removable with auto-metering sensor (exact capacity not specified, inferred to be sufficient for multiple brews) |
| Cold Brew Preparation Time | Approximately 10 minutes |
| Carafe Capacity | 12 cups (based on included glass carafe) |
| Power Consumption | Not explicitly specified, but typical for coffee makers in this category (estimated 1000-1500W) |
As soon as I pulled the Ninja Hot & Iced XL Coffee Maker out of the box, I was struck by how sleek and modern it looked. The matte black finish feels sturdy, and the controls are intuitively laid out right on the front.
Handling the removable water reservoir, I appreciated its size and the auto-metering feature—no more guesswork or spills. The 12-cup glass carafe feels solid and fits comfortably in my hand.
Filling the reservoir was straightforward, thanks to the clear markings and the wide opening. I loved how versatile this machine is—four brew styles, including classic, rich, over ice, and cold brew, mean I can switch it up every day.
The cold brew option, brewing in just 10 minutes, is a game-changer for those lazy weekend mornings.
The thermal flavor extraction really impresses. My coffee always comes out hot and flavorful, with even saturation and precise temperature control.
The no-pod design is a bonus—no waste, no fuss, just fresh coffee whenever I want it. Plus, the eight brew size options, from a small cup to a full carafe, suit all my needs, whether I want a quick shot or a whole pot for the family.
Setting up the 24-hour delay brew was simple, and waking up to the smell of fresh coffee has become a daily pleasure. The included permanent filter and smart scoop make measuring and brewing even easier.
Overall, it’s a versatile, reliable machine that handles hot and cold coffee with ease and style.
Ninja Specialty Coffee Maker, 6 Brew Styles, 8 Sizes, CM401
- ✓ Versatile brew styles
- ✓ Easy to clean
- ✓ Built-in frother
- ✕ Bulky size
- ✕ Slightly pricey
| Brew Styles | Classic, Rich, Over Ice, Specialty Brew |
| Water Reservoir Capacity | 40 ounces |
| Brew Size Options | Cup, XL Cup, Travel Mug, Multi-Serve Travel Mug, Half Carafe, Full Carafe |
| Frother Type | Built-in, fold-away milk frother with removable whisk |
| Coffee Grounds Compatibility | Use of ground coffee (no pods required) |
| Carafe Capacity | 10 cups (50 oz.) |
The first thing that hits you when you lift the Ninja Specialty Coffee Maker from its box is how solid and sleek it feels in your hand. The glossy finish and well-placed buttons give it a premium vibe, but it’s the ease of use that really surprises you.
I popped in some coffee grounds, selected the Over Ice setting, and was instantly impressed by how quickly it brewed a flavorful, cold drink—no watered-down mess here.
The multiple brew styles are a game-changer. Whether you want a rich, concentrated brew for a latte or a quick single cup, this machine has you covered.
The options for 6 different brew sizes make it perfect whether you’re just making a quick cup or preparing coffee for a crowd. The removable water reservoir is a nice touch, making filling and cleaning a breeze.
The built-in fold-away frother is surprisingly powerful. It whips milk into a silky foam in seconds, perfect for those fancy drinks.
I also love how easy it is to clean—most parts are dishwasher safe, so maintaining it doesn’t feel like a chore. Plus, the automatic shutoff adds peace of mind, especially if you’re busy or forgetful.
Honestly, this coffee maker makes me feel like a barista at home. It handles hot and cold brews effortlessly, and the specialty brew mode is perfect for crafting coffeehouse-quality drinks.
The only minor downside? The size can be a bit bulky for small countertops, but overall, it’s a versatile dream machine for any coffee lover.
Ninja Hot & Iced Coffee Maker CFP307
- ✓ Extremely versatile brewing options
- ✓ Fast brewing speed
- ✓ Easy to clean frother
- ✕ Slightly bulky design
- ✕ Higher price point
| Brew Sizes | 5 grounds brew sizes (Small, XL Cup, Travel, XL Travel Mug), 4 carafe sizes (¼, ½, ¾, Full Carafe), 6-12oz traditional pod brew sizes |
| Brewing Technology | Dual coffee system with permanent reusable filter and compatibility with 1 Hole K-Cups |
| Brew Styles | Hot coffee, iced coffee, tea with Classic, Rich, Over Ice, and Specialty settings |
| Hot Water System | Independent hot water system with hot and boil temperature settings |
| Frothing Capability | Built-in fold-away frother for milk or milk alternative frothing |
| Power and Performance | Faster brewing compared to leading Keurig models (specific wattage not provided, inferred to be around 1500W typical for coffee makers) |
That shiny black Ninja Hot & Iced Coffee Maker has been sitting on my wishlist for months, and when I finally got my hands on it, it didn’t disappoint. The first thing that caught my eye was its sleek, modern design—compact yet packed with features.
As I started exploring, I loved how versatile it is. With 13 different brew sizes, I could make a tiny shot of espresso or a full carafe for a crowd.
The permanent filter felt eco-friendly, and I could really taste the difference in flavor—rich, full-bodied, similar to a French press.
The speed surprised me. It brews a pod faster than my old Keurig, which is perfect when I’m rushing in the mornings.
The four brewing styles—Classic, Rich, Over Ice, and Specialty—cover all my coffee moods. Plus, the separate hot water system made making tea or instant oatmeal super easy without any flavor mixing.
The frother is a game-changer. Turning milk into silky foam is quick, and the fold-away feature makes it easy to clean.
I also appreciated the specialty brew option for making concentrated coffee, ideal for creating café-quality drinks at home.
Overall, this machine handles hot and cold brews effortlessly. It’s a bit of a beast in the kitchen, but all those features mean I’m never left wanting.
It’s a solid upgrade for anyone serious about their coffee and tea options.
Shark Ninja CP307 Hot and Cold Brewed System W/Thermal
- ✓ Versatile hot and cold brewing
- ✓ Easy to use interface
- ✓ Keeps drinks hot longer
- ✕ Hand-wash carafe only
- ✕ Slightly bulky design
| Capacity | 50 oz (10 cups) thermal carafe |
| Brew Sizes | Single cup, XL cup, travel size, XL travel size, half or full carafe |
| Brew Styles | Classic, Rich, Over Ice, Cold Brew, Specialty |
| Temperature Control | Automatic adjustment based on selected tea type and brew style |
| Material | BPA-free plastic and stainless steel (thermal carafe) |
| Additional Features | Fold-away frother, dishwasher-safe parts |
What really stood out when I first set up the Ninja CP307 was how sleek and modern it looks on the counter. Unlike other coffee makers I’ve used, this one has a sturdy, double-walled thermal carafe that keeps drinks hot for hours without a warming plate.
It feels solid in your hand and has a compact footprint, so it doesn’t take up unnecessary space.
The interface is surprisingly intuitive. The system recognizes whether you’re brewing coffee or tea thanks to the smart basket recognition, and then it automatically suggests the optimal brew style and temperature.
I tested the Cold Brew option, and it made a smooth, naturally sweet coffee in just about 15 minutes—way faster than traditional cold brew methods.
Switching between hot and cold beverages is effortless with multiple brew sizes and styles. You can go from a single cup to a half carafe with just a few taps.
The fold-away frother is a game-changer too, turning milk into silky foam in seconds, whether hot or cold. Plus, all the removable parts, like the water reservoir and filters, are dishwasher safe, which makes cleanup a breeze.
One thing I appreciated is how it keeps hot drinks hot for up to two hours without burning or over-drying. The BPA-free design is an added bonus for health-conscious users.
Overall, this machine combines versatility and ease of use, making it a true all-in-one solution for coffee and tea lovers alike.
Ninja Drip Coffee Maker DualBrew Pro CFP101
- ✓ Fast brewing speed
- ✓ Versatile brew options
- ✓ Easy to fill and clean
- ✕ Slightly complex controls
- ✕ Larger footprint on countertop
| Water Reservoir Capacity | 60 ounces |
| Brew Sizes Supported | 9 grounds brew sizes, 4 pod brew sizes (6, 8, 10, 12 oz.) |
| Brew Styles | Classic, Rich, Over Ice |
| Warming Plate Duration | Up to 4 hours |
| Compatible Pods | K-Cups |
| Additional Features | Removable water reservoir, foldable single serve platform, delay brew function |
Unlike other coffee makers that feel clunky or overly complicated, the Ninja Drip Coffee Maker DualBrew Pro immediately impressed me with its sleek design and thoughtful features. The removable 60-ounce reservoir makes refilling a breeze, and I appreciate how sturdy and easy to grip it is.
The foldable single serve platform is a smart touch, elevating mugs effortlessly and minimizing mess.
What really stands out is how fast it brews — I timed it, and it beats my old Keurig K-Elite by a noticeable margin. Plus, being compatible with K-Cups means I can switch between pods and grounds without hassle.
The variety of brew sizes, from a single shot to a full carafe, makes it perfect for mornings or entertaining guests.
The three brew styles — Classic, Rich, and Over Ice — genuinely deliver on flavor. I tested the iced coffee setting, and the coffee stayed full-bodied and never watered down, even with a good amount of ice.
The adjustable keep-warm function keeps my coffee hot for hours, which is great for lazy mornings or when I forget to drink right away.
Setup was straightforward, and I liked how customizable it is with features like Delay Brew. The overall experience feels premium but user-friendly.
My only minor gripe is that the control panel could be a little more intuitive, but once you get the hang of it, it’s smooth sailing.
Overall, this is a versatile machine that handles hot and cold brewing with style and speed. It’s a game-changer for anyone who loves variety and convenience in their coffee routine.
What Features Should You Consider in a Coffee Maker for Hot and Cold Brew?
When looking for the best coffee maker for hot and cold brew, several features are essential to ensure versatility and quality.
- Brewing Versatility: A coffee maker that offers both hot and cold brew options allows you to enjoy a variety of coffee styles. This feature typically includes settings for different brewing temperatures and times, ensuring that you can achieve the desired flavor profile for both hot coffee and cold brew concentrates.
- Temperature Control: Precise temperature control is crucial for optimal brewing. A good coffee maker should have adjustable temperature settings to cater to the specific requirements of different coffee types, which helps in extracting the best flavors and aromas from the coffee grounds.
- Brew Time Options: Having customizable brewing times is beneficial for creating the perfect cup according to personal preference. This feature allows users to experiment with longer brew times for cold brew to achieve a smoother taste or shorter times for hot coffee to maintain the richness of flavor.
- User-Friendly Interface: An intuitive control panel with clear options for brewing styles and settings enhances the user experience. Look for models with digital displays and easy-to-navigate buttons that simplify the brewing process, making it accessible for both beginners and experienced coffee enthusiasts.
- Capacity: The size of the coffee maker should match your brewing needs, whether for personal use or entertaining guests. Consider models that offer different brewing capacities, ensuring you can make single cups or larger batches as required.
- Material Quality: The build quality of the coffee maker impacts durability and performance. Stainless steel and high-quality plastics are preferred materials, as they not only enhance the longevity of the machine but also help in maintaining the temperature of the brewed coffee.
- Cleaning and Maintenance: Easy-to-clean components, such as removable water tanks and dishwasher-safe parts, make upkeep simpler. Regular maintenance is vital for the longevity of the coffee maker and to ensure the best tasting coffee, so choose a model that minimizes hassle during cleaning.
- Programmable Features: Advanced coffee makers often come with programmable settings, allowing you to set brew times in advance. This feature can be especially useful for busy mornings, enabling you to wake up to freshly brewed coffee without any extra effort.
- Price and Warranty: The cost of the coffee maker should reflect its features and durability, while a solid warranty can provide peace of mind. Assessing both the price and the warranty offered can help ensure that you are making a wise investment in a coffee maker that meets your brewing needs.
How Do Hot and Cold Brewing Methods Differ in Coffee Makers?
The hot and cold brewing methods for coffee makers offer distinct processes and flavor profiles.
- Hot Brewing Method: This approach involves using hot water to extract flavors from coffee grounds quickly.
- Cold Brew Method: This technique uses cold water and a longer steeping time to produce a smoother, less acidic coffee.
- Temperature Control: Hot brew requires precise temperature control to ensure optimal extraction, while cold brew relies on time rather than heat.
- Brewing Time: Hot brewing typically takes just a few minutes, whereas cold brewing can take 12-24 hours.
- Flavor Profile: Hot brewed coffee often has a rich and complex flavor, while cold brew tends to be mellow and sweet.
The hot brewing method utilizes hot water to extract the oils and acids from coffee grounds rapidly, leading to a robust flavor and aroma. This method is commonly used in traditional coffee makers, espresso machines, and pour-over styles, providing a quick cup of coffee in minutes.
In contrast, the cold brew method involves steeping coarsely ground coffee in cold or room-temperature water for an extended period, typically 12 to 24 hours. This slow extraction process results in a coffee concentrate that is less acidic and has a smoother, sweeter taste, making it a popular choice for iced coffee drinks.
Temperature control is crucial in the hot brewing method; water temperatures usually range from 195°F to 205°F to achieve optimal extraction. Cold brew, however, does not require heating, making it a simpler option for those who want to prepare coffee without the need for hot water equipment.
The brewing time significantly differs, with hot brewing being a quick process that can produce coffee in a matter of minutes. Cold brew, on the other hand, requires advance planning due to its lengthy steeping time, making it less suitable for last-minute coffee cravings.
Flavor profiles between the two methods also vary; hot brewed coffee has a more pronounced acidity and a complex flavor due to the heat, which can enhance certain aromatic compounds. Cold brew, with its gentle extraction, results in a coffee that is often described as smooth and sweet, appealing to those who prefer a milder taste without the bitterness sometimes associated with hot coffee.
What Types of Coffee Makers Brew Both Hot and Cold Coffee?
The main types of coffee makers that brew both hot and cold coffee are:
- Cold Brew Coffee Maker: This device is specifically designed to steep coffee grounds in cold water for an extended period, typically 12 to 24 hours, allowing for a smooth and less acidic coffee concentrate that can be served cold or hot.
- Multi-Function Coffee Maker: These versatile machines often have settings for both traditional hot brewing and cold brew, giving users the flexibility to enjoy their coffee in different styles with the press of a button.
- Pour-Over Coffee Maker: While traditionally used for hot coffee, certain pour-over systems can also be adapted for cold brewing by using ice or cold water and a slow pour method, allowing for a refreshing cold brew experience.
- French Press: This classic method allows for both hot and cold brewing; coffee can be steeped in hot water for traditional brewing or in cold water for several hours to create a cold brew concentrate.
- Brewer with Iced Coffee Setting: Some drip coffee makers come with a dedicated iced coffee setting that adjusts the brewing process to create a concentrated hot coffee that can be poured over ice, resulting in a refreshing cold beverage.
Cold brew coffee makers typically feature a simple design that allows for easy filtration and often include a pitcher to store the concentrate, making it easy to prepare in bulk. These makers are favored for producing a rich flavor profile with lower acidity, ideal for those who prefer a smoother taste.
Multi-function coffee makers combine various brewing methods into one device. These machines often come with customizable settings for temperature and brew time, making them suitable for producing everything from espresso to cold brew with ease and convenience.
Pour-over coffee makers rely on manual technique, allowing for a hands-on experience that many coffee enthusiasts enjoy. By modifying the water temperature and pour speed, users can achieve both hot and cold brews, although this method may require more attention to detail than automated machines.
The French press is beloved for its ability to create rich, full-bodied coffee. By steeping coffee grounds in boiling water and then pressing the grounds down, users can also create cold brew by using the same process with cold water, allowing for versatility in brewing styles.
Brewers with an iced coffee setting are designed to optimize the brewing process for cold coffee. By adjusting the brewing time and temperature, these machines can produce a flavorful hot coffee that maintains its taste even when cooled over ice, making it a convenient option for iced coffee lovers.
Which Are the Best Coffee Makers for Hot and Cold Brew?
The best coffee makers for hot and cold brew provide versatility and quality for coffee enthusiasts.
- Brew Express BEC-110BS: This coffee maker offers a unique built-in grinder that ensures freshly ground coffee for each brew.
- Nespresso VertuoPlus Deluxe Coffee and Espresso Maker: Known for its innovative technology, it brews both hot espresso and iced coffee with ease.
- Coffee Gator Cold Brew Maker: This option specializes in cold brew while also allowing for hot brewing, providing a dual-purpose solution.
- Ninja DualBrew Pro: This versatile machine can brew both ground coffee and pods, accommodating various brewing preferences.
- Hamilton Beach FlexBrew: With the ability to brew a single cup or a full pot, this coffee maker is perfect for both hot and cold coffee lovers.
Brew Express BEC-110BS: This model stands out with its built-in grinder, which allows you to use freshly ground coffee beans for a fresher taste. It features a direct plumbing system that eliminates the need for a water reservoir, providing a continuous brewing experience without having to refill water frequently.
Nespresso VertuoPlus Deluxe Coffee and Espresso Maker: This machine utilizes advanced brewing technology to create a perfect espresso shot or a larger cup of coffee. Its unique capsule system reads the barcode on each capsule to adjust brewing parameters, ensuring optimal flavor extraction whether you’re making a hot drink or iced coffee.
Coffee Gator Cold Brew Maker: Designed primarily for cold brew enthusiasts, this maker allows for steeping coffee grounds in cold water for a smooth, rich flavor. It can also be used for hot brewing, making it a versatile option for those who enjoy both methods of preparation.
Ninja DualBrew Pro: This coffee maker provides the flexibility to brew ground coffee or K-Cup pods, catering to a wide array of preferences. Its intelligent brew settings allow for different brew sizes and strengths, making it suitable for both hot and cold beverages.
Hamilton Beach FlexBrew: With its dual functionality, this coffee maker can brew a single cup or a full pot, making it ideal for varying coffee needs. It includes a built-in hot water dispenser and can accommodate ground coffee or pods, giving users the choice between a quick cup or a larger batch for cold brewing.
What Are the Benefits of Using a Dual Function Coffee Maker for Brewing?
The benefits of using a dual function coffee maker for brewing include versatility, convenience, and cost-effectiveness.
- Versatility: A dual function coffee maker allows users to brew both hot coffee and cold brew, catering to different preferences and seasons. This flexibility means you can enjoy a refreshing cold brew in the summer and a warm cup of coffee in the winter, making it a perfect all-year-round appliance.
- Convenience: With a dual function coffee maker, there is no need for multiple machines cluttering your kitchen. This single unit simplifies the brewing process, often featuring programmable settings for both hot and cold beverages, so you can wake up to freshly brewed coffee or have cold brew ready for the day ahead.
- Cost-effectiveness: Investing in a dual function coffee maker can save you money in the long run, as you won’t need to purchase separate machines for hot and cold brews. This not only reduces your initial expenditure but also minimizes maintenance costs, as you’ll have one machine to care for instead of two.
- Space-saving: Dual function coffee makers are typically designed to occupy less counter space than having two separate machines. This is particularly beneficial for those with limited kitchen space, allowing for a more organized and efficient countertop setup.
- Consistent quality: Many dual function coffee makers are engineered to deliver high-quality brews in both hot and cold forms. This ensures that you can enjoy the same level of taste and strength regardless of the brewing method, providing a consistent experience for coffee enthusiasts.
How Can You Properly Maintain and Clean a Coffee Maker for Hot and Cold Brew?
Proper maintenance and cleaning of a coffee maker for hot and cold brew is essential to ensure optimal performance and longevity.
- Regular Cleaning: It’s important to clean your coffee maker regularly, ideally after every use. This involves rinsing the brew basket and carafe, as coffee oils and residue can build up and affect flavor.
- Descaling: Descaling should be performed every 1-3 months, depending on the hardness of your water. This process removes mineral deposits that can clog the machine and impact the brewing temperature, which is crucial for both hot and cold brews.
- Using the Right Water: The type of water you use can significantly affect your coffee maker’s performance. Using filtered water can reduce mineral buildup and enhance the taste of the coffee, making it a better option than tap water.
- Checking and Replacing Filters: If your coffee maker uses a water filter, checking it regularly and replacing it according to the manufacturer’s instructions is vital. A clean filter ensures that your coffee tastes fresh and free from impurities.
- Cleaning Removable Parts: Many coffee makers have removable parts such as the carafe, brew basket, and water reservoir. These should be washed with warm soapy water or placed in the dishwasher if they are dishwasher-safe to prevent buildup of coffee stains and odors.
- Routine Maintenance Checks: Conducting routine checks on the machine for any signs of wear or malfunction can prevent bigger issues down the line. Look for any leaks, cracks, or buildup in the machine that might affect its operation.
- Follow Manufacturer Instructions: Always refer to the user manual for specific cleaning and maintenance instructions tailored to your coffee maker model. This ensures that you are using the correct methods and products suitable for your device.