Jura Z10 Review – Finally A Bean-To-Cup Cold Brew Machine?

Jura Z10 Review – My Ratings & Top Features

Who Should Buy The Jura Z10 Espresso Machine?

If you're someone who cherishes a fresh cup of joe without the fuss, the Jura Z10 is your match made in heaven.

Ideal for folks who love variety--think cold brew coffee to piping-hot espresso--all at the touch of a button. Super user-friendly, so there is no need for a barista degree!

On top of that, it is also great for busy households or small offices. It's an all-in-one premium coffee machine that makes everything for you.

For commercial spaces, this means that you don't have to hire a barista to staff your coffee booth.

Why I Decided To Review The Jura Z10

If you're like me, you've probably heard the whispers in the espresso community about the Jura Z10 being one of the best high-end espresso machines under $5000.

It's been making waves, and I thought, why not dive deep, test its claims, and give my fellow coffee aficionados a straight-up take on it?

After all, with so many options out there, making the right choice can be daunting. Here's a breakdown to give you a clearer picture:

What’s It Like To Live With The Jura Z10

Have you ever considered having a top-notch barista on standby in your kitchen? That's precisely the vibe with the Jura Z10.

Picture this: waking up, shuffling over to this sleek machine, and whipping up your go-to espresso-based drink without that annoying line at the cafe or the fuss of learning to pull the perfect shot.

Having tinkered with countless machines over the years, trust me, this one feels like having a coffee shop’s worth of expertise right at your fingertips.

So, if you're wondering whether this machine is all hype or the real deal, let's brew some truth together.

What's In The Box?

My delivery experience with the Jura Z10 was pretty seamless. From the moment I placed the order to the machine arriving at my doorstep, everything went like clockwork.

The packaging was robust, giving me confidence that the machine inside was untouched and in pristine condition.

Now, for the unboxing. Everything was impeccably organized, each piece in its rightful place. Here's what's inside:

I’ve had my fair share of super-automatic espresso machines, and the added cleaning tablets and filter cartridge are a really nice touch.

For other machines, they’re often sold separately, which means extra cost for users. However, for its high price tag, it’s something that you should expect.

Pulling My First Espresso Shot

If you’ve ever owned a fully automatic espresso machine before, you know that it requires an initial setup before you can start brewing your favorite drinks.

Let me share with you my experience:

Initial Set-Up

Setting up the Jura Z10 super-automatic espresso machine felt like unpacking any other new kitchen gadget but with a touch of excitement.

Picking the right spot on the counter was essential, especially with those ventilation slots to consider.

The machine has intuitive touch screen controls that made the initial configuration feel like I was setting up a new smartphone app--a bit overwhelming if you’re not used to digital gadgets, but super easy if you’ve been tinkering with smart devices for a while.

Next is setting up the built-in grinder. There's nothing much to set up here but simply adding beans to it.

However, I'd like to point out some of my favorite features about this one. First, the bean container and its aroma preservation cover keep the coffee beans fresh.

Of course, I also need to mention the Product Recognizing Grinder, a feature you'd only get from a high-end coffee machine like this.[1]

This stainless steel conical burr grinder automatically adjusts the grind size it produces based on the drink you're making.

Lastly, there's an option for you to use pre-ground coffee if you prefer drinking decaf or if you run out of coffee beans.

After loading the beans, the machine directs you to check the water hardness. Those Aquadur® test strips made it a quick and straightforward process.

All you have to do is dip the strip into your glass of water and wait for the result. Just make sure that the water you’re testing is the water you’ll be using to brew coffee drinks.

With the reading in hand, adjusting the machine's settings was just a few touchscreen taps away.

The initial set-up had the machine rinsing itself and getting prepped for its first brew. There are steps that you need to take, too, but simply follow the on-screen prompts, and you're all clear.

Pulling The Actual Shot

Now, let's move on to the most important part of this Jura Z10 review: checking how this super-automatic espresso machine makes coffee. Can it brew a perfect cup? Let's find out.

First up, features. Coffee lovers, especially those who have owned a super-automatic coffee machine, know this can make or break the quality of your coffee drinks.

The Jura Z10 comes with a Pulse Extraction Process, which, in simple words, ensures your coffee is extracted optimally. So, every time you brew, it's aiming for a perfected and delicious espresso shot.

On top of that, it has an eighth-generation brewing unit. This brew group allows the water to flow evenly through the coffee grounds, which allows for a consistent brewing process every time.

Okay, enough with the techie bits. Let's talk about the moment of truth: pulling that first espresso shot.

After making sure my beans were in the hopper and the settings were on point, it was showtime.

Thanks to its state-of-the-art brewing technology, the espresso flowed like liquid gold. It is crowned with the most beautiful, silky crema, making me feel like a proud coffee parent.

The best part? I didn't even do any heavy lifting. With just a touch of a button, I could brew quality espresso.

At the end of the day, what matters most is the coffee itself. With that first shot? The Jura Z10 proved it isn't just another pretty face on the counter.

It's a machine that's ready to elevate every coffee moment. And trust me, I'm here for it.

First Time Frothing Milk

Frothing milk has always been a delicate art for me. 

If you've ever tried to froth milk with manual tools, you know the dance: the precise angle, temperature, and rhythmic hand motion that sometimes feels more like a workout than a relaxing coffee ritual.

So, with a mix of skepticism and excitement, I decided to give the Jura Z10's frothing feature a spin.

Compared to manual frothing, the Z10 was like switching from a bicycle to a supercar. The machine promises precision without the elbow grease, and the resulting milk foam is impressive!

Out flowed creamy, velvety froth that held its form beautifully--no watery residue, just consistent, luxurious milk foam.

It was the kind of perfection I’d been chasing with my manual frother for ages, achieved in mere seconds by the Z10.

My favorite part about this automatic milk frother is that you can customize it depending on your preference. From how much milk you get in every brew to the milk temperature.

On top of that, you have the option to choose from milk foam or just hot milk.

I don't like that it doesn't come with a free milk container, but it's not a problem as you can just stick the milk tube straight in the carton.

In conclusion, the Jura Z10's frothing prowess left me genuinely impressed. It effortlessly raised the bar, making me wonder why I ever toiled with manual frothing.

How Much Control Do You Have Over The Coffee Experience?

With the Jura Z10 super-automatic coffee machine, you have complete control over how you brew hot coffee and even cold drinks (we’ll get to that later in this review!).

First off, this machine is like a Swiss Army knife for coffee lovers. You can play around with so many settings to get that cup just right.

The programmability of this espresso machine is off the charts. You know those days when you crave a stronger kick from your espresso or maybe a milkier latte?

The Z10 has got your coffee preferences covered. And don't even get me started on brewing temperature control.

I've had machines that serve too hot or cold coffees, but with the Z10, every sip is perfect.

On top of that, for folks who are into the nitty-gritty of coffee strength and brewing, it lets you adjust the extraction time.

In layman's terms, you decide how long your coffee dances with the water, ensuring it's neither too bitter nor too bland.

Here's the real kicker: the JURA app. I've seen a few coffee machine apps in my time, and most seem like an afterthought. Not this one. Jura's JOE is pretty slick.

Using WiFi connectivity (way more stable than Bluetooth, by the way) allows you to tweak your coffee settings without even getting off the couch.

All in all, if you're looking for a machine that lets you get technical without a Ph.D. in coffee science, this Jura coffee maker is your guy.

It’s like having your favorite local coffee shop right on your countertop.

How Does It Handle Different Roasts?

The Jura Z10 super-automatic coffee machine can easily handle all types of roasts, ensuring you get the optimal flavor of whatever coffee beans you use.

Thanks to its Product Recognizing Grinder, it adjusts its grind in what feels like a heartbeat; you don't even have to do anything.

It's not just a one-size-fits-all approach; this grinder tailors the grind based on the roast, going from finely ground coffee for those short, sharp espresso shots to making coffee coarser for your more relaxed brews.

It also adjusts based on the type of drink you're having.

Look, Feel, and Size Of The Machine

Weighing in at a solid 27 lbs, it has a commanding presence but isn't obnoxiously heavy. Size-wise, it's about 13x 15 x 18 inches, which is still relatively compact.

Now, onto the design: personally? I'm a fan. Its sleek silhouette doesn't just eat up counter space but rather adds a modern touch to the kitchen.

I've seen my fair share of automatic espresso machines, and the Z10 stands out. It's made for those who appreciate design as much as a good cup of coffee.

Even if you're tight on space, its size-to-performance ratio is a win. It's the kind of machine you want to show off, not shove in a corner. Did I mention that its build quality is impressive?

What Drinks Can It Make?

The Jura Z10 can make a wide range of coffee drinks, just like having a professional barista at your fingertips. 

With 32 specialty drinks on its menu, including both hot and cold drink options, it's a haven for cold coffee lovers.

Whether it's a scorching day or a chilly morning, the Z10 caters to every coffee whim, making it a true connoisseur's pick.

Here are the specialty drinks it can make:

That’s a lot, right? Well, that’s just something you’d expect with a premium coffee maker.

Something I’d like to highlight is its ability to make true cold brew coffees, which is very handy, especially during warmer months.

Unlike many super-automatic machines that can only brew hot drinks, the Jura Z10 prides itself on its cold extraction process, ensuring it makes cold specialty coffees that taste just right.

You just need to use cold water in your water tank, and it can create cold brew specialty coffee drinks in no time.

That is so much better than pouring hot coffee over ice to make iced coffee, which results in a watered-down cup.

From cold espresso to genuine latte or any refreshing beverage of your choice, this machine's versatility is unbeatable.

How Easy Is It To Use?

Navigating the Jura Z10 is a breeze. Imagine being curled up on your couch and dictating your coffee desires via the JURA app—no need to go to your kitchen or press too many buttons.

Brewing coffee? It's a one-touch affair. You can have a delicious cup of coffee or an iced latte in no time.

However, it's worth noting that while it's beginner-friendly, offering barista-quality brews at a simple press, for those of us who like to meddle a bit more, its programmability is a dream.

If you've ever played around with brewing temperatures or are specific about your milk temperature, the Z10 welcomes all your quirks.

So, novice or budding coffee aficionado, this machine adjusts to fit snugly into your coffee journey and taste preferences.

How Long Does It Take? (From Heat Up To First Sip)

With the Jura Z10, you don't have to wait long for a great coffee.

From the cold start, give it about 30-45 seconds, and it's primed for action--no longer are you left twiddling your thumbs.

By the time you pick your favorite mug and decide if you're in the mood for a biscotti, your machine's warmed up.

I'm talking less than a minute from heat up to that first perfect sip.

For anyone who values their time (and their coffee), the Z10's speed is a game-changer. It's like your caffeine fairy godmother granting you that quick coffee wish every morning.

Does It Have A Water Filtration System?

Yes, the Jura Z10 comes with a CLARIS Smart water filter cartridge, which ensures that unwanted minerals and impurities don’t get in your machine and cup of coffee.

It also has an Intelligent Water System (IWS) that knows when a filter cartridge is present and alerts you when you need to change it.

Why do these features matter? Well, if you allow hard water to run through your machine consistently, you're looking at frequent descaling and, ultimately, reduced machine life.

On top of that, your coffee will taste better without all those extras in the water.[2]

In essence, the Z10's filtration system guarantees a better cup of joe and ensures your prized machine stays in tip-top shape for longer.

So, it's not just about the drink in your cup but also about keeping your machine in its prime.

How Hard Is It To Clean and Descale?

The Jura Z10 is refreshingly straightforward to clean and maintain. Having been around many coffee makers in my time, I can tell you it can be a pain with some models.

Jura really has understood our collective groans about the cleaning process.

The Z10 often takes care of many cleaning tasks on its own, automatically running cleaning cycles after brewing, for instance.

However, when it comes to deep cleaning, the on-screen prompts are super helpful. No guesswork; just follow the steps. Descaling, though, is where I was genuinely impressed.

Thanks to that nifty Intelligent Water System I mentioned earlier, the machine stays ahead of limescale build-up.

When it's time to descale, the process isn't complex. The machine will let you know when it's time, and then it's mostly just a matter of adding the descaling solution and letting the Z10 do its thing.

So, my friend, fear not. This machine won't have you spending hours with a toothbrush in hand.

It's designed with real-world users in mind, ensuring that you spend more time enjoying your coffee than cleaning and maintenance.

My Favorite Parts About The Jura Z10

My Least Favorite Parts About The Jura Z10

Jura Z10 Vs Similar Machines

Jura Z10 Vs Jura S8

Both the Jura machines are super-automatic coffee machines. However, they cater to slightly different aficionados. 

The Z10, being pricier, boasts the unique ability to make cold brew and hot coffee, giving it an edge for those who crave variety.

The S8, while more budget-friendly, still brings Jura's signature PEP (Pulse Extraction Process) to the table, ensuring optimum extraction for every cup.

It's a robust choice if you're looking for efficiency without the cold brew flair.

Jura Z10 Vs Jura Giga 6

If we're talking Jura Z10 versus the Jura Giga 6, it's a bit like comparing a cutting-edge sports car to a luxury limo. Both are from the prestigious Jura line, so quality isn't questioned. 

The Z10? It's got innovation in its corner with that nifty cold coffee feature and a diverse range of specialties, making it perfect for those always keen to try something new.

The Giga 6, though, it's the big gun.

With dual bean hoppers and more drink choices than you can shake a stick at, it's for the true aficionado who wants it all and isn't afraid to shell out the bucks for it.

Jura Z10 Vs Breville Oracle Touch

Now, the Jura Z10 and Breville Oracle Touch? That's like comparing a top-tier European footballer to a star Aussie rules player.

The Z10's got that Swiss manufacturer precision and an impressive line-up of coffee specialties. It's all about consistency and efficiency.

On the other hand, the Oracle Touch espresso machine is for people who like to get their hands dirty (well, not literally).[3]

With its manual tamp and steam wand, it bridges the gap between automated and manual, giving a touch more involvement and control in the brewing process.

Their biggest difference is your involvement in the whole process.

People Also Ask (FAQs)

Conclusion - Is The Jura Z10 Worth Your Money?

After putting the Jura Z10 to the test, here's my verdict: If you value automation and variety, this machine might just be your next best friend. 

It's a powerhouse, blending Swiss precision with a broad range of drink options, including those rich cold brews in just a touch of a button.

However, if you're hunting for a more hands-on barista experience, I recommend the La Pavoni PUB 1. It's a challenge to use, but it will surely give you that manual experience you crave.

References: 

1. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1KvmiD0rz4Q
2. https://newgroundmag.com/2022/05/why-hard-water-could-be-ruining-your-coffee/
3. https://www.breville.com/us/en/products/espresso/bes990.html