When comparing the Jura X6 vs X8, the most noticeable difference I’ve seen is in the variety of coffee specialties each offers. The Jura X6 has a respectable selection of 12 coffee specialties, while the Jura X8 steps it up significantly with 21 specialty coffees. What’s more, the X8 features two boilers compared to the X6’s single boiler. So the X8, no doubt, is the overall winner.
Jura X8 Vs X6: Specs & Features Comparison Chart
Last update on 2024-11-18 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Jura X8 Vs X6: Differences
The X8 knocked out the X6 with a 3-0 lead. Let’s dive into all the differences and similarities between them!
Coffee Flavor & Brewing System
Winner: Jura X8
Built-in Grinder
Both have an innovative built-in AromaG3 grinder, which is designed to crush the whole beans down to perfection in a shorter time. It’s adjustable, too, allowing you to fine-tune the coarseness of the coffee beans to suit your taste preferences. Remember to only do this while it’s running to prevent any damage to the grinder and ensure it continues to work efficiently.
Heating System
The Jura X8 has two boilers. With one boiler dedicated to heating water for coffee brewing and the other for milk steaming, the X8 can perform both tasks simultaneously.
On the other hand, in machines with a single boiler, like the X6, there’s a waiting period as the machine adjusts the water temperature between brewing and steaming, which can slow down the process.
But wait for seconds, doesn’t the X6 have no milk system? Oh, it turns out that having only one boiler isn’t a downside to this one because a two-boiler system is overkill for it.
Brewing System
Speaking of espresso extraction on these machines, Jura’s Intelligent Pre-Brew Aroma System and Pulse Extraction Process are exactly what you’ll get. Well, these technologies may sound ridiculous, but they actually produce premium shots of coffee.
The Intelligent Pre-Brew Aroma System (I.P.B.A.S.) pre-moistens the coffee grounds before the actual brewing process begins. This pre-brewing step helps to release more of the coffee’s aroma and flavor nuances, which might otherwise be missed in a standard brewing process.
The Pulse Extraction Process (P.E.P.) process involves forcing hot water through the coffee grounds in short intervals or pulses. Instead of a steady stream of water, P.E.P. uses these pulses to optimize the extraction time, allowing for the fullest possible extraction of flavor. This is particularly effective for short specialty coffees like espresso or ristretto, where the process ensures a more intense and aromatic flavor.
Pre-programmed Coffee Options & Programmability
Winner: Jura X8
| Jura X8 | Jura X6 |
|---|---|
| Ristretto 2 × Ristretto Espresso 2 × Espresso Coffee 2 × Coffee Special coffee 2 × Special coffee Pot of coffee Caffè latte 2 × Caffè latte Cappuccino 2 × Cappuccino Flat white 2 × Flat white Latte macchiato 2 × Latte macchiato Portion of milk 2 × Portion of milk Hot water Hot water for green tea | Ristretto 2 × Ristretto Espresso 2 × Espresso Coffee 2 × Coffee Special coffee Espresso doppio Pot of coffee Hot water Hot water for green tea Hot water for black tea |
The X6 has 12 different drinks, which is quite impressive, but the X8 even blows my mind with 21 one-touch specialties. It seems like the X8 was designed with the X6 as a foundation but tailored for larger settings, such as busy offices, small cafes, or even upscale waiting rooms where a variety of preferences need to be catered to. Of course, that also means the X8 would be overkill for home use.
Among the various one-touch options, I am impressed with their ability to brew a large pot of coffee. This feature really is a lifesaver for meetings or gatherings, and it is also what I found on Delonghi Dinamica Plus. Instead of brewing individual cups, they can make a large batch that’s ready to serve a group of people craving caffeine.
The X8 has a pair of milk dispensing outlets located parallel to a pair of outlets for espresso. That means it can make two milk-based beverages at once, while most machines, including the X6, can only brew espresso in pairs.
Both the X6 and X8 have 10 levels of coffee strength and 2 levels of brewing temperature, as well as the ability to adjust the length of the shot and the amount of milk foam. Still, the X8 takes the lead with programmable milk foam temperature with 10 levels, which isn’t something you see in many espresso machines. Unfortunately, these machines don’t have user profiles or anything similar to store your personalized drinks in a separate place.
Milk Frothing System
Winner: Jura X8
This is not really a comparison since only the X8 has a milk system. Thanks to Jura’s fine foam technology, it can produce high-quality milk foam for drinks like cappuccinos, but it doesn’t quite reach the level of microfoam with the finer, silkier texture necessary for a perfect flat white. So if you are a die-hard fan of flat white, it may not satisfy you.
And as always, the X8 doesn’t come with any milk containers. For those who are new to high-end coffee machines or who might appreciate the convenience of an all-in-one package, this absence could be seen as a minor drawback.
Jura X8 Vs X6: Similarities
Design & Convenience
Dimensions & User Interface
| Jura X8 | Jura X6 | |
|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 14.7 x 20.6 x 18.1 inches | 14.7 x 20.6 x 18.1 inches |
| Weight | 30.9 lbs | 26.4 lbs |
Spout & Cup Clearance
| Jura X8 | Jura X6 | |
|---|---|---|
| Spigot Type | Dual | Dual |
| Cup Clearance | 2.6-6 inches | 2.6-6 inches |
Like other Jura super-automatic machines, both the X6 and X8 have a height-adjustable dispensing unit, which can go all the way up to 6 inches for latte glasses or big travel mugs.
Both also share a separate faucet for hot water. This nifty feature is really useful for more than just making coffee. For instance, it’s perfect for times when you feel like brewing tea or even making other hot beverages like hot cocoa. It’s much quicker than boiling water in a kettle, so I guess something is about to be forgotten!
Water Reservoir & Bean Hopper
| Jura X8 | Jura X6 | |
|---|---|---|
| Water Reservoir | 5 liter | 5 liter |
| Bean Hopper | 0.5 kg (can be extended to 1 kg) | 0.5 kg (can be extended to 1 kg) |
Their 5-liter water tanks are huge. This is a great thing since no one really enjoys the interruption of having to refill the water tank too often, wouldn’t you agree?
But even if you don’t use up all the water in a day, you should empty the reservoir at the end of the day and refill it with fresh water the next morning. Doing so will help prevent any buildup or growth inside the water tank. Plus, using fresh water each day ensures that every cup of coffee you brew is as fresh and delicious as possible.
Luckily, Jura ships a water filter with each of them. I highly recommend installing the water filter to reduce any impurities or unwanted tastes from the tap water, which can significantly affect the flavor of your coffee. What’s more, the filter can also extend the lifespan of the machine by preventing scale buildup.
Their hopper feeders are also quite large, and more importantly, both have an airtight lid to ensure that the beans are kept in an optimal environment, safe from external elements like air and moisture. This is crucial because exposure to air can cause the beans to lose their aroma and flavor over time, which can greatly affect the taste of the coffee.
Cleaning & Maintenance
The brew groups of these machines are fixed and not removable, so cleaning them relies on an automatic program that you run when they notify you when it’s the right time. All it takes is a Jura’s cleaning tablet and roughly 30 minutes of your time, I promise. You should also do a quick clean of the X8’s milk system and frothing parts daily and do a deeper cleaning monthly.
App Connectivity
Both are compatible with Jura’s J.O.E. app, allowing you to order a coffee without having to leave your desk. It’s a game-changer, especially when you’re submerged in work. No more waiting around at the coffee maker, wondering when you’ll get your caffeine fix.
The app also works with an Apple Watch, which is incredibly handy for those times when your phone is low on battery or if you’re caught up in a call. With just a few taps on my watch, you can order one of my top three drinks from the X8, just like having a personal barista right at your wrist!
I should also say that the J.O.E. app knows Siri. All you have to do is set up your preferences and create a Siri shortcut for these drinks. The next time you desire coffee, simply say that to Siri, and the ideal cup will be delivered to you in no time. Now, if only there was a way to send the drink to your desk – that would be the ultimate dream!
Quick Rundown Of Jura X8
- AromaG3 grinder
- Pulse Extraction Process (P.E.P.) ensures the optimum extraction time
- Water tank capacity 167.3 oz - optional extra connection kit
- 17.6 oz capacity bean container with aroma preservation cover
- Catering use
Last update on 2024-11-18 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Quick Rundown Of Jura X6
Product Videos
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References
- Jura X8: https://www.jura.com/en/professional/machines/X8-Platin-EA-15413
- Jura X6: https://cee.jura.com/en/professional/machines/X6-Dark-Inox-EU-15154
Felix Hendricks is a skilled barista with over 12 years of experience. He excels in crafting coffee and has a strong foundation in coffee machine mechanics. Felix holds a Coffee Machine Maintenance Certification from the Coffee Equipment Technical Institute, showcasing his ability to diagnose and repair coffee machines. He’s also worked as a quality control specialist, selecting premium coffee beans for optimal flavor. Felix has a diverse work history, including stints at renowned coffee spots like Café Euphoria & Starbucks. His expertise in both brewing and machine maintenance makes him a respected figure in the coffee industry.