Jura S8 Review - Best Automatic Machine On The Market?
The Jura S8 super-automatic espresso machine is the epitome of coffee luxury.
It features an Aroma G3 grinder, the Pulse Extraction Process, and 15 specialty drinks. And that only scratches the surface of its innovative features.
I’ve analyzed its performance, design, and advanced capabilities to answer whether the Jura S8 can fulfill your deepest coffee desires.
Here’s my verdict so you can make an informed decision and get that perfect home-brewed indulgence.
Jura S8 Review – My Ratings & Top Features
I rate Jura S8 4.8 out of 5. Jura coffee machines are among the best super-automatic espresso machines you can buy nowadays, and S8 is no different.
This coffee machine has a wide range of the newest Jura technology that works together to create flavorful drinks at the touch of a button.
I have almost no negative remarks — except for the price. Here’s exactly why I think the Jura S8 is a great coffee maker.
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Key Features
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Things I Like
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Things I Don’t Like
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Who Should Buy The Jura S8?
The Jura S8 super-automatic espresso machine is best for coffee enthusiasts who want barista-quality coffee drinks without the barista-level effort.
If you’re busy and want a seamless morning routine, you’ll love pressing a button and getting a drink without any work needed.
Overall, it’s a great choice for those who want automation and for the machine to do most of the work.
Why I Decided To Review The Jura S8
My first ever coffee machine was a Nespresso, and I’ve always had a soft spot for the super-automatic espresso machines.
Jura, with all of its innovative technology, is a far cry from the simplicity of Nespresso, so as a fervent coffee aficionado, I had to give it a try.
Jura's reputation for delivering café-quality beverages at home piqued my curiosity.
I wanted to check the quality of the drinks it makes and determine how the machine operates during continuous use so fellow coffee enthusiasts can make an informed decision before investing in the Jura S8.
Testing Conditions
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Days Tested |
30 |
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Cups Brewed Per Day |
2 to 3 |
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Level Of Experience Needed |
Beginner |
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Reviewer Background |
I'm a home brewing enthusiast who's used and tested several espresso machines over the years. I started with Nespresso Vertuo and recently upgraded to Rocket Espresso Appartamento. |
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Environment Tested |
Home kitchen |
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Money Saved Per Year |
Around $1,000 |
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Favorite Drink To Brew |
Espresso & Latte |
What’s It Like To Live With The Jura S8?
Here’s my experience using this super-automatic espresso machine, starting from the first time I pulled a shot and frothed milk.
What’s In The Box?
Jura S8 box contains:
- Jura E8 super automatic espresso machine
- Water hardness test strip
- CLEARYL water filter
- Coffee scoop
- Cleaning tablets
- Milk cleaning system liquid
- Cleaning container
- Owner's Manual
My order was processed in under two business days, and I received it in a cardboard box with lots of bubble wrap.
The machine was well-packaged and arrived undamaged.
It’d be nice if Jura offered free shipping, especially considering the high price of their espresso machines.
Instead, the shipping fee is determined by your zip code and the weight of the coffee machine.[1]
Pulling My First Espresso Shot
The first thing I did after taking the S8 out of the box was to prepare it for brewing.
This includes determining the water hardness level, filling the bean hopper, running the rinsing cycle, and inserting the filter cartridge in the water tank.
Once this was done, I pulled my first shot:
- I placed a cup under the spout
- I touched the espresso on the touchscreen
- I waited for the coffee machine to make my brew
That’s it. Once the prep steps were done, the actual brewing process was incredibly simple, and I got delicious coffee in seconds.
These are the key features that Jura S8 uses to make barista-quality drinks:
- Intelligent Pre-Brew Aroma System (IPBAS) — This is the first step of the brewing process. The coffee maker automatically determines the amount of coffee needed and dispenses the correct water amount. This ensures consistent drink results every time.
- Pulse Extraction Process (PEP) — This is effectively pre-infusion, only Jura gave it a fancier name. The coffee machine forces water through the freshly ground coffee in short bursts (pulses). The water pre-infuses coffee grounds so they expand, giving you a richer coffee flavor.
- Aroma G3 grinder — Multi-level stainless steel conical burr grinder that efficiently crushes the coffee beans and preserves the flavor.
First Time Frothing Milk
Jura S8 prepares various milk-based drinks. Here’s how I got milk foam using its Professional Fine Foam frother:
- I poured milk into the milk jug.
- I connected the milk tube to the machine and inserted the other end into the milk jug.
- I chose milk froth on the display and waited until the machine was done frothing.
Jura coffee machines make various milk-based coffee beverages, and you can adjust the milk foam as you like.
Overall, the more I used the S8, the more I learned how to customize it.
For example, the milk frothing system can create a fine froth for lattes or an airy froth for cappuccinos.
The machine even pauses after frothing milk for latte macchiatos, which lets the milk separate, and you get those delicious layers.
Really, what more can you ask for?
How Much Control Do You Have Over The Jura S8?
Generally, Jura automatic coffee machines give you a lot of control over the brewing process, and S8 is no exception.
Here’s all the control you have over this fully-automatic coffee machine:
- Adjustable water levels
- 10 coffee strength settings
- Programmable amount of milk foam
- 3 levels of brewing temperature
- 3 levels of water temperature
You can also choose between seven grind settings, and you can even set the time between pouring the milk and the espresso.
Overall, the level of control is impressive and much higher compared to other fully automatic espresso machines I used.
How Does It Handle Different Roasts?
Jura S8 handles different roasts well, thanks to the AromaG3 grinder.
You can adjust the grind settings to achieve the ideal grind level, depending on the beans you use.
The machine's programming lets you tailor the extraction parameters, so Jura S8 can extract the best from each roast.
Overall, whether you're a fan of the bright notes in a light roast or the deep intensity of a dark roast, the Jura S8's meticulous handling of different roasts guarantees a consistently satisfying coffee experience.
Plus, you can use pre-ground coffee, which is great when you want decaf.
Look, Feel, and Size Of The Machine
Jura S8 looks and feels premium. Keep in mind this is a large machine that will dominate your kitchen counter with dimensions 11 x 13.4 x 17.3 in.
However, the machine has a modern design with clean lines and is available in silver, black, or chrome, so you can easily find a color that fits your kitchen vibe.
The removable drip tray is located at the bottom, with two spouts in the center of the machine.
One spout is for espresso and coffee, and one is for milk-based drinks.
This means you can make a latte macchiato or a cappuccino without having to move the cup. Plus, dual spouts mean you can make two drinks at once.
The automatic milk frother is located to the right and has a dial that lets you adjust the milk texture.
The touchscreen is located above the coffee spout, and this is the design feature I liked best.
I've seen some reports of users complaining about the screen's response. However, I didn't have any issues.
The screen is large and clearly shows all drink options and important notifications (such as to empty drip tray or refill the bean hopper).
The 64 oz water reservoir is located in the back. I loved its ribbed design and how it enhanced the machine’s overall aesthetic.
Plus, it’s large, so you won’t have to refill it multiple times a day.
What Drinks Can It Make?
Jura S8 can make an impressive 15 coffee drinks:
- Ristretto
- 2 x ristretto
- Espresso
- 2 x espresso
- Regular coffee
- 2 x coffee
- Macchiato
- Caffe latte
- Cappuccino
- Flat white
- Latte macchiato
- Portion of milk foam
- Portion of milk
- Hot water
- Hot water for green tea
Overall, the list of coffee and milk-based drinks is extensive, although I’d like to have an option for double espresso for a cappuccino and flat white.
Also, Jura lists hot water for tea as a separate option.
However, one thing the machine can’t do is make cold brew and iced coffee.
How Easy Is It To Use?
Even if you’re transitioning from a semi-automatic espresso machine to a fully automatic one, you won’t have issues setting up and using it.
The touch screen makes the use incredibly easy. It’s intuitive and guides you through every step, so you won’t reach for the user manual.
Moreover, I liked how you can adjust the specialty coffees while the drink is being made.
You can even save your preferences using the touch screen, and the machine will remember them for future use.
You can even rename, copy, and delete each drink and even add new coffee recipes.
This makes a huge difference if you’re sharing your machine with another person with different preferences.
Overall, the Jura S8 coffee machine has an easy-to-use operating system.
How Long Does It Take? (From Heat Up To First Sip)
It takes around two minutes from heat up to the first sip, which is faster than many other coffee machines.
Jura S8 coffee machine has a Thermoblock heating system that reaches optimal brewing temperature in around a minute.
It takes around 30 to 40 seconds for the coffee machine to pull single or double shots.
If you’re making a milk-based drink, the milk system takes another minute to create hot milk.
In this case, you’ll have to wait around three minutes to enjoy your first sip.
Does It Have A Water Filtration System?
Yes, Jura S8 has a water filtration system called Intelligent Water System.
Jura's Intelligent Water System means there's a CLEARYL Claris smart filter in the water reservoir.
The machine recognizes when the Claris smart filter is inserted into the water tank and lets you know when it's time to change it.[2]
How Hard Is It To Clean and Descale?
Jura S8 is very easy to clean and descale. In fact, if you use the water filter, you won’t even have to descale.
You should do daily maintenance tasks, such as cleaning the milk frother after making warm milk to prevent milk curdling and ruining your espresso macchiato.
Empty the drip tray and the puck container as needed, and rinse them.
After 180 brewed drinks, the S8 will prompt you to clean it. The cleaning process takes 20 minutes, so keep this in mind.
Simply touch the “clean the machine” option on the touch screen, choose clean, and start.
Don’t forget to place the receptacle under the coffee spout and the milk spouts.
The machine will prompt you when it’s time to add the cleaning tablet.[3]
Overall, the cleaning process is easy, thanks to the detailed instructions on the display.
My Favorite Parts About The Jura S8
My absolute favorite part about the Jura S8 super-automatic machine is that it’s completely programmable.
You can choose everything from high-coffee dosing, number of espresso shots, coffee temperature, and coffee strength to grind size.
I also liked that both the coffee and milk system spots are adjustable, as well as the hot water function.
The cappuccino and hot water spout have a max height of 6 in, so you can fit a taller glass.
Moreover, I could lower the coffee spout to 2.8 in, which preserves the crema.
Finally, I liked the large capacity of the used puck container. I could enjoy my best espresso without having to clean the automatic coffee machine straight away.
My Least Favorite Parts
My least favorite part about the Jura S8 is the fixed brew group. I can’t take it out and remove the leftover coffee grinds.
However, Jura claims this isn’t an issue, and I admit I didn’t notice any changes in my coffee even though I used this machine for a while.
Finally, I didn’t like the S8 has fewer drink options compared to other machines in the Jura lineup, including more affordable models.
Jura S8 Vs Similar Machines
Here’s how Jura S8 compares to other similar machines.
Jura S8 Vs E8
Jura S8 and E8 are extremely similar models.
The E8 has a somewhat more compact footprint, but both machines have the same build quality and self-cleaning options.
Both Jura S8 and E8 have the same high-end features, such as the IPBAS, PEP, Aroma G3 grinder, and Intelligent Water System, so you won't notice a difference in coffee quality.
However, Jura E8 has more drink options — 17 compared to S8’s 15. Also, E8 doesn’t have a touchscreen display but an LCD with corresponding buttons.
Overall, the E8 is a better option in terms of value, except if you’re set on having a color touchscreen display.
Related Article - Jura E8 Review
Jura S8 Vs Z8
Jura Z8 is another high-end Jura coffee machine. It has the same brewing technology and programmability as the S8.
For example, the brewing system is Thermoblock with IPBAS, PEP, AromaG3 grinder, and the Intelligent Water System.
The main difference is that the Z8 is made from aluminum and has fewer plastic parts compared to the S8. Z8 also has an impressive 21 drink options.
Most of these are double shot options, and cafe barista and lungo barista so that you can be a professional barista at home.
Barista HQ Note: Jura has discontinued Z8. However, you can still find some refurbished models.
Related Article - Jura Z10 Review
Jura S8 Vs DeLonghi Dinamica Plus
DeLonghi Dinamica Plus is another super-automatic machine. It has a slightly more compact design than the S8, with dimensions 9.3 x 16.9 x 13.7 in.
Dinamica Plus can make 16 drinks at the touch of a button.
It has a built-in LatteCrema Automatic milk frother that creates excellent foam for milk drinks using a milk carafe (there aren’t any tubes).
Most importantly, Dinamica Plus has a grinder with 13 settings, which is considerably more compared to the Jura S8.
Finally, this machine also comes with a touchscreen display that’s somewhat smaller than Jura’s.
Overall, Dinamica Plus has mostly the same features as the Jura. It creates good milk foam and a large variety of drinks at a much lower price.
Related Article - Delonghi Dinamica Review
FAQs
Can Jura S8 make lattes?
Yes, Jura S8 can make lattes. It has many creative features for milk frothing that let you customize the latte to your preferences.
Does Jura S8 grind beans?
Yes, Jura S8 grinds beans. The coffee maker has an AromaG3 conical burr grinder with seven settings that create even coffee grounds.
When did the Jura S8 come out?
Jura S8 came out in July 2018.
How often do you clean the Jura S8?
You should wipe clean the Jura S8 espresso machine daily, especially the milk frothing system. You should do the cleaning cycle after 180 brewed drinks.
Why is milk not coming out from Jura S8?
Milk isn’t coming out of the Jura S8 because the milk frother could be clogged with calcium deposits. You should disassemble it and clean it with water and soap.
Does Jura S8 come with a milk container?
No, the Jura S8 doesn’t come with a milk container. Generally, Jura coffee makers don’t come with milk containers, which is surprising considering how expensive they are.
Is The Jura S8 Worth Your Money?
Jura S8 is worth your money if you’re looking for coffee makers that can make excellent coffee at the push of a button.
It’s also one of the best espresso machines for coffee lovers who want a large display.
It has plenty of key features that ensure quality drinks, such as the Pulse Extraction Process, high-quality grinder, and pre-infusion.
Plus, it’s excellent build quality and keeps the beans fresh.
However, if a touchscreen display isn’t your main priority, my advice is to check out the Jura E8.
It has the same features as the S8, plus it can make more specialty drinks.
| Check Latest Price |
Jura S8
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Resources:
- https://shopjura.com/shipping-policy
- https://us.jura.com/en/homeproducts/clearyl-filter-system-n
- https://us.jura.com/-/media/global/pdf/manuals-na/Home/S8/download_short_manual
Parker Russell is a coffee professional and the founder of Black Ink Coffee. As an expert in the field of coffee roasting, cupping (professional Q-Grader) and brewing, Parker has established Black Ink as brand that fuels the grind of dreamers.