Jura Z8 vs. Jura S8

Jura Z8 vs Jura S8

Vipul M

06 Feb 2025 — 8 min read

Jura Z8 vs. Jura S8: Which Premium Coffee Machine is Right for You?

When it comes to high-end automatic coffee machines, Jura is a brand that consistently delivers top-quality espresso makers with cutting-edge technology. Among their premium offerings, the Jura Z8 and Jura S8 stand out as two of the most sought-after models. If you're considering investing in a Jura coffee machine, this in-depth comparison will help you decide which one best suits your needs.

Overview of Jura Z8 and Jura S8

Both the Jura Z8 and Jura S8 are feature-rich automatic coffee machines designed to provide a barista-quality coffee experience at home. While they share some similarities, they also have key differences that set them apart in terms of features, performance, and pricing.

Jura S8 vs Z8: Specs & Features Comparison

Feature	Jura S8	Jura Z8
Dimensions (H x W x D)	12.7 x 20.1 x 16.7 inches	15 x 12.6 x 17.7 inches
Weight	20 lbs	29.5 lbs
Water Tank Capacity	63.6 oz	81.3 oz
Bean Hopper Capacity	10 oz	9.9 oz
Heating System	Single Thermoblock	Dual Thermoblocks
Beverage Options	15	21
Touchscreen Display	4.3-inch	4.3-inch
Milk System	Carafe HP3	Carafe HP3
Coffee Strength Levels	3	3
Brewing Temperature Levels	3	3
Price	$2,499.00	$3,049.95
Ideal For	Great cappuccinos, budget-friendly	Top-quality espresso, premium features

Jura Z8 Overview

The Jura Z8 is a high-end, professional-grade coffee machine that is packed with features catering to coffee enthusiasts who want the ultimate experience. It is known for its ability to prepare dual specialty coffees simultaneously and boasts an advanced brewing system.

Key Features of Jura Z8:

21 pre-programmed coffee specialties
Dual spouts for simultaneous coffee preparation
Touchscreen color display
P.E.P. (Pulse Extraction Process) for enhanced flavor
Intelligent Water System (IWS) for optimal water filtration
Fine foam technology for superior milk froth
Large 2.4L (81 oz) water tank
10 oz bean hopper with aroma preservation lid
Compatible with Jura’s J.O.E. (Jura Operating Experience) app

Jura S8 Overview

The Jura S8 is a slightly more compact and budget-friendly option while still delivering excellent quality. It combines the best elements of Jura’s higher-end models in a stylish, modern design.

Key Features of Jura S8:

15 pre-programmed coffee specialties
4.3-inch touchscreen color display
P.E.P. technology for better extraction
Intelligent Water System (IWS)
Fine foam frother for creamy milk-based drinks
1.9L (64 oz) water tank
10 oz bean hopper
Compatible with Jura’s J.O.E. app

Design and Build Quality

The Jura Z8 and Jura S8 both showcase Jura’s renowned commitment to sleek design and premium craftsmanship, but they differ in materials and overall build quality. The Jura Z8 features a robust aluminum body, which not only enhances its durability but also gives it a high-end, professional appearance. This makes it an excellent choice for coffee enthusiasts who appreciate a more luxurious aesthetic and a machine that stands out as a statement piece in their kitchen. The aluminum construction adds a level of sophistication that elevates the overall experience of using the Z8.

On the other hand, the Jura S8 combines high-quality plastic with metal elements, striking a balance between elegance and practicality. This combination makes it slightly lighter and more compact than the Z8, making it a great option for those with limited counter space. Despite the lighter build, the S8 does not compromise on style, maintaining Jura’s signature modern design with clean lines and a premium finish. It offers a stylish and refined look while ensuring ease of placement in smaller kitchens.

Ultimately, the choice between the Jura Z8 and Jura S8 depends on individual preferences and kitchen space considerations. If you’re looking for a coffee machine that exudes luxury and makes a bold statement, the Jura Z8 is the ideal option. However, if you prefer a machine that is sleek yet space-efficient without sacrificing quality, the Jura S8 is an excellent alternative. Both models uphold Jura’s reputation for exceptional design and build quality, ensuring a premium coffee-making experience.

Ease of Use and Interface

The Jura Z8 and Jura S8 both prioritize ease of use with their intuitive touchscreen color displays, ensuring a seamless coffee-making experience. The Jura Z8 features a 4.3-inch screen, which is slightly larger than the display on the Jura S8, making navigation and selection more convenient. The increased screen size allows for clearer visuals and easier access to various settings, enhancing overall usability. Whether selecting a classic espresso or a specialty drink, both machines offer a straightforward interface that simplifies the brewing process.

One of the key advantages of the Jura Z8 is its expanded customization options. Users can fine-tune coffee strength, temperature, and milk froth levels with greater precision, allowing for a more personalized coffee experience. While the Jura S8 also provides customization, the Z8 offers a wider range of adjustments, making it an excellent choice for coffee enthusiasts who enjoy experimenting with different settings. These enhanced options give users more control over their beverages, ensuring a tailor-made cup every time.

Both machines integrate seamlessly with the Jura J.O.E. app, enabling remote operation via a smartphone. This feature allows users to prepare drinks from anywhere in their home, adding an extra layer of convenience. Whether you're entertaining guests or simply want to have your coffee ready as soon as you wake up, the app provides effortless control. Ultimately, both the Jura Z8 and S8 offer user-friendly interfaces and smart connectivity, making them excellent choices for those seeking a high-tech yet easy-to-use coffee machine.

Beverage Variety and Customization

One of the most significant differences between the two machines is the number of beverage options:

Jura Z8: 21 specialty drinks
Jura S8: 15 specialty drinks

The Jura Z8 provides more options, including one-touch Americano preparation, which is a notable feature for those who enjoy Americanos. Additionally, the Z8 can prepare two milk-based drinks at the same time, whereas the S8 can only prepare one.

Both machines allow for extensive customization, letting you adjust coffee strength, volume, milk froth consistency, and temperature settings to match your personal preferences.

Milk Frothing System

Both models feature Jura’s Fine Foam Technology, which ensures the perfect milk froth for cappuccinos, lattes, and other milk-based drinks. However, the Z8’s dual milk system allows for better efficiency when making multiple milk-based beverages at once, making it the better choice for families or offices where multiple people may want a latte at the same time.

Brewing Technology and Performance

Both machines come with Jura’s signature Pulse Extraction Process (P.E.P.), which optimizes extraction time for rich, aromatic espresso. Additionally, they both feature AromaG3 grinders, which are known for being twice as fast as conventional grinders while preserving the beans' aroma.

The Jura Z8 has an additional brewing system, allowing it to prepare two specialty drinks at once. This is a game-changer for households with multiple coffee drinkers.

Water Tank and Bean Hopper Capacity

Jura Z8: 2.4L (81 oz) water tank | 10 oz bean hopper
Jura S8: 1.9L (64 oz) water tank | 10 oz bean hopper

The Z8’s larger water reservoir means fewer refills, making it more convenient for heavy coffee drinkers or offices.

Cleaning and Maintenance

Both machines are equipped with Jura’s Intelligent Water System (IWS), which works with Jura’s CLEARYL filters to remove impurities and prevent scale buildup. Additionally, both feature automatic cleaning cycles, making maintenance a breeze.

The Jura Z8 has a slight edge with its automatic milk cleaning system, which simplifies the cleaning process for milk-based drinks.

Price and Value for Money

Jura Z8: Higher price point due to premium features and dual-coffee preparation capabilities.
Jura S8: More budget-friendly while still offering a premium coffee experience.

If you are looking for a top-tier, feature-packed machine and don’t mind the extra investment, the Jura Z8 is the way to go. However, if you want an exceptional coffee experience without the highest price tag, the Jura S8 offers great value for money.

Who Should Buy the Jura Z8?

The Jura Z8 is perfect for:

Coffee aficionados who want maximum customization and high-end features.
Households or offices that need dual coffee preparation capabilities.
Those who enjoy a wider variety of specialty coffee drinks.
Users who appreciate a luxurious design and a larger water reservoir.

Who Should Buy the Jura S8?

The Jura S8 is ideal for:

Users who want premium coffee quality at a lower price point.
Individuals who prefer a more compact design.
Those who drink mostly single milk-based coffee beverages.
People looking for an easy-to-use yet high-end coffee machine.

Quick Rundown of Jura Z8

Model: Jura Z8 Aluminum Automatic Espresso & Cappuccino Machine with Touch Screen

Key Features:

Dual Thermoblocks: Ensures the temperature is always perfect for brewing.
Nuanced Coffee Flavor: Produces robust and aromatic coffee with rich flavors.
Brewing Capacity: Can brew a large jug of coffee in one go, making it ideal for offices.
Convenient Touchscreen Control: 16 one-touch beverages for easy selection.
Milk Foam: Delivers creamy and velvety milk foam, perfect for lattes and flat whites, even cappuccinos.
Capacity: 81.3 oz water tank and 9.9 oz bean hopper.

Price: $3,049.95

Pros:

Dual Thermoblocks ensure perfect brewing temperature.
Robust and aromatic coffee flavor.
Can brew a large jug of coffee in one go, ideal for office use.
Convenient touchscreen control with 16 one-touch beverages.
Creamy milk foam for lattes, flat whites, and cappuccinos.

Cons:

Must empty the used pucks container frequently.

The Jura Z8 is a top-tier espresso machine that offers advanced features and superior brewing performance, making it an excellent choice for those who seek the best in coffee and espresso making.

Does this sound like the right machine for your coffee needs?

Quick Rundown of Jura S8

Model: Jura S8 15212 Automatic Coffee Machine w/ PEP, 64 oz Capacity, Programmable