Nitro cold brew has taken over the coffee lover’s scene in the last decade. Known for its velvety flavor, this cold cup of Joe supplies a heftier hit of caffeine and can be seen coming straight from a keg at most coffee shops around the country. But I’ve always wondered if you can brew nitro coffee at home.
Yes, you can brew nitro coffee at home. So, I’ve rounded up five of the best nitro cold brew coffee makers on the market today that you can brew at home. And the greatest part is it’ll be a cheaper way to support your caffeine habit. Not to mention, you’ll get to play with nitrogen in the comfort of your own home, like the mad coffee chemist we all dream of becoming.
Top Picks If You’re In A Hurry…
Infusing cold brew with nitrogen gas creates a thicker texture and mouthfeel, allowing drinkers to often forego the addition of cream or sugar, leading to a low-calorie coffee option. Each cup can come with an equally hefty price tag of up to $6.00, creating a rather expensive luxury if you find that it’s your preferred go to order.
Best Nitro Cold Brew Coffee Maker Reviews
1. GrowlerWerks uKeg Nitro Cold Brew Coffee Maker
GrowlerWerks is back again with great option for making nitro cold brew that will hit the spot every time. This company is known for their ingenuity when it comes to pressurized beer keg systems and this product carries that tradition of quality flawlessly. A favorite of ours, this is an all-in-one set up great for matching batches for your work weeks or for supplying your get together with great coffee.
- Insulated to ensure temperature is maintained when left outside of the refrigerator.
- Capable of brewing coffee within same unit, reducing the amount of hardware required to make good coffee.
- Volume indicator to visibly show how much cold brew is left to enjoy before you need to start a new batch.
- Includes a pressure gauge to monitor gas levels, which translates to fresh and frothy.
- Carrying handle for easy transport so you can take it with to the next event, if you want to share that is.
- Shorter height build makes it easier to store in smaller refrigerators if you so choose.
- Priciest option of the bunch.
- Nitrogen chargers sold separately.
- You will need to purchase more brew filters if you choose to use the all-in-one function as only 4 are included with the initial order of this product.
Relatively easy to use, you won’t go wrong if you choose to invest this nitro coffee kit. Coffee can be brewed in this device before infusing, but it is also compatible with cold brew made separately. It’s double vacuum sealed walls allow you to leave it out at room temperature for an extended period of time as well as helps keep the cold brew fresh for multiple days if you don’t plan on drinking the batch within a day or two.
2. NitroPress Nitro Coffee Maker
From across the pond comes another great option for making nitrogen infused coffee at home. Sold by Hatfields London, this nitro coffee maker is best suited for the single or couple household. It also allows for some versatility and can be used to create nitrogen infused cocktails when you need something a little stronger. Afterall, half our lives are spent wondering if it’s too late to drink coffee and the other half too early to have a cocktail.
- Smaller design makes it easier to travel with and takes up less room when storing.
- Smaller holding capacity allows for one-time use, ensuring a fresh pour every time with the use of a new cartilage.
- Beautiful design that looks great as a gift.
- Can be used for cold brew coffee or cocktails.
- Very easy to use.
- Does not have an insulated construction so it’s not recommended to leave at room temperature if looking to keep contents cold.
- Smaller capacity makes it limiting in how many beverages you can serve before needing a new batch.
- Cold brew coffee must be made separately.
- Requires more motor skills to serve than other options.
This product was made with busy kitchens and people in mind. It’s easy to use, easy to clean and provide just enough nitro cold brew to get you through each day. It also looks quite professional to have a handheld device that requires a bit of hand mastery, such as flipping upside down and squeezing the handle. If you’re looking for something simple and sleek to take your cold brew to the next level, this nitro coffee kit will do you right.
3. Royal Brew Nitro Cold Brew Coffee Maker Home Keg Kit System
From the reputable company, Royal Brew, that has been established since 1987 comes our third great option for the best nitro cold brew coffee maker that can be used at home. Made to model stout beer dispensing systems, the overall look of this set up is very characteristic of a typical keg system.
- The overall look and feel are very professional and will be a talking point amongst friends.
- From an established company who backs their products for a lifetime.
- Comes with two cleaning brushes for easy cleaning between uses.
- Easy to carry handles implemented into the design of the keg body.
- Can be used with either 2 Nitrogen (N2) cartilages or 1 Nitrous Oxide (N2O) cartilage.
- Cold brew needs to be made separately.
- Although it comes in a 64-ounce capacity, it is recommended to put in 40 – 48 ounces of cold brew for optimal performance.
- Standing at almost 14” tall, it may be difficult to store in your refrigerator without adequate space.
- Although it’s made with stainless steel, it is not insulated so it will need to be stored in refrigerator at all times not in use to keep contents cold.
This is a classic option that most readily resembles the set up you would see at a coffee shop, just one a much smaller scale. It displays an iconic design sure to be a hit amongst friends and family who visit your house. It’s versatility in what cartilages it is compatible with make shopping for replacement cartilages a more lenient experience. This company really values the quality of their products and are there to assist you in the off-chance you have any issues.
4. NutriChef NCNTROCB10 Nitro Cold Brew Coffee Maker
Similar to the previous option, this NutriChef cold brew coffee maker is designed to resemble the stout keg set up characteristic of coffee shops. NutriChef is another reputable company that has vast knowledge and expertise in pressurized dispensing systems. A bonus here is they don’t print their branding directly onto the design of the keg for a modern and sleek feel that can be displayed aesthetically where you so choose.
- Easy to assemble with a hexagonal screw cap that is easy to grip.
- Works great with store bought cold brew and homemade cold brew.
- Lack of visible branding for a professional feel.
- Lightweight, weighing in at around 5 pounds total.
- Sleek and classic design.
- This set up is not insulated, so will need to be returned to refrigerator to keep contents cold.
- Stands at over 14”, perhaps making storage a bit challenging in small spaces.
- Cold brew must be made separately.
- No warranty included in purchase.
- N2O cartridges sold separately.
NutriChef’s nitro cold brew coffee system is a great straight forward option with a classic and visually interesting appearance. It’s easy to use and will deliver a quality pour, creating that creamy and velvety beverage you’re looking for. This product is likely the most classic of all and will be a great addition to any classic nitro cold brew lover’s kitchen and morning routine set up.
5. AT HOME Nitro Cold Brew Coffee Maker
The last but certainly not least option on our best nitro cold brew coffee maker list for you today is made by HB Brewing. An American company of nitro cold brew loving folks who just want to provide you with the great flavor without the hefty coffee shop price tag. This option comes with a bit more frills than the previous two mini keg set ups discussed if you’re one of those that are sold on the little things.
- Customizable by color and construction (double walled version is an increased cost).
- Classic keg construction and feel with a unique look.
- Two handles designed into the body of the mini keg.
- Comes with a thorough instruction guide for easy set up.
- Pressure valve allows for storage of unused cold brew for multiple days.
- Satisfaction guaranteed by the manufacturer.
- Single wall design isn’t insulated so unit will need to be refrigerated to keep contents cold (insulated version available with upcharge).
- Tall construction of over 14” tall could make it difficult to store in smaller spaces.
- Coffee must be cold brewed separately or purchased from store.
- N2O cartilages must be purchased separately.
If you’re looking for something to resemble the classic ensemble of the coffee shops’ nitro cold brew set up but still want flexibility in its customization, this is a great option for you. Additionally, this is the only company out of our reviewed nitro coffee kits here that have that mini keg set up and offer an insulated option as well. HB Brewing has taken extensive care to make sure you have additional replacement and cleaning parts to keep your set up working and creating great nitro cold brew.
Nitro Cold Brew Coffee System Buying Guide
Choosing the best nitro cold brew coffee maker can seem like a confusing decision when you start looking into all the available options out there. Afterall, many of us haven’t much experience in infusing gas into our drinks. But with the right set up, of which we’ve outline five reliable options here, it is easier than you would think.
There are a few main things to consider when trying to decide which nitro coffee kit to purchase, depending on your intended use and preferred way of drinking nitro cold brew.
You need to consider how you will supply your cold brew. Whether you have a favorite pre-made, store bought brand, you already own a cold brew maker, or you’d like to have a nitrobrew maker that can also make the cold brew before infusing, this needs to be decided first. Out of our options today, only one is an all-in-one set up, so the other four will require pre-made cold brew (either by you separately or store bought) before using the system to nitro infuse the coffee.
Serving Capacity
Next you’ll need to think about your consumption habits. How much nitro cold brew you or your household drinks per day will influence the size of the nitrobrew coffee maker needs to be. Most of our options here have a 64-ounce capacity, allowing for four to six pours. The option from Hatfields London has a smaller capacity and will only provide two glasses of fresh nitro cold brew per use.
While we are talking about consumption habits, you’ll also need to consider if you will be using this product at events and parties to offer friends and family a taste of great nitro cold brew. If you plan on using your set up in this way, you’ll need to consider an insulated option as those are the builds that keep the contents cold while it sits out at room temperature.
Storage Space
Storage Space is also important to consider, especially for the non-insulated options. Most of the mini keg designed options are a bit on the skinnier yet taller size, potentially making it difficult to store in smaller refrigerators.
The GrowlerWerks nitro cold brew coffee system quite a bit shorter than the mini keg set ups but wider in size so you will need more room across. The Hatfields London option is perfect for small kitchens and areas with limited storage space.
It is best to evaluate the room you plan to dedicate to your new nitro coffee kit and pay attention to the dimensions listed on the product page to make sure you’re getting a product that will not only work for you, but for your space as well.
Need Nitrogen Cartridges
With all of these options, you will need Nitrogen cartridges. Some models are compatible with both Nitrogen (N2) and Nitrous Oxide (N2O), making it simpler to purchase cartridges. Each batch of nitro cold brew will require new cartridges so these will be an on-going purchase.
While brand or the store that you buy them from don’t matter as much as long as you’re getting the type you need, a few of the options we have given recommendations for also have the recommended nitrogen cartridges listed with the coffee maker.
Important to note about the difference between N2 and N2O: If you want the coffee shop effect, use straight N2. Nitrous oxide is sweet-tasting and creates foamy, coarse bubbles. This is mostly commonly known for whipping cream. Nitrogen gas is flavorless and inert, and it creates a head of cascading bubbles if the conditions are correct. Coffee shops use this, and it creates that thicker mouthfeel for your nitro cold brew without altering the flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Nitro coffee has the same impact on health as a regular brewed coffee. Brewing coffee with nitrogen does not have a negative effect on your body or create a danger in any way. It could have a positive health impact as nitro coffee is sweeter which means you might not need to add cream and sugar.
Nitrogen is injected into the coffee at a high pressure. Since nitrogen doesn’t easily dissolve in water it makes the coffee thick and foamy. Nitrogen is colorless and odorless, but it does add a sweet flavor to the coffee.
Because of the ratio of coffee beans to water nitro coffee does have more caffeine than regular coffee. A 16 ounce cup has around 280 milligrams of caffeine compared to a drip coffee maker which has about 11 milligrams. 200 to 300 mg of caffeine a day is considered to be a moderate amount of caffeine per day by experts.
Best Nitro Cold Brew Coffee Maker And Conclusion
The ability to make nitro cold brew at home is truly beautiful. You get to avoid leaving the house (or needing to if you WFH) and avoid paying for an overpriced cup. It’s also quite fun to play with these set ups and create something delicious. Your friends and family will likely be converted to the magic that is nitro cold brew once you start serving them up with one of these nitro cold brew coffee systems.
We know there are a lot of options out there when looking for the best nitro cold brew coffee maker but hopefully we have helped present you with some of the best options available and helped to narrow in on what you are looking for. Happy brewing and happy nitro-ing!