Cold Brew Costs
Equipment
Basic: $15-30 (mason jar + filter)
Dedicated: $25-50 (cold brew maker)
Premium: $100-200 (Ninja, Toddy system)
Per Serving
Homemade: $0.25-0.50
Concentrate: $0.30-0.60 (makes 4-8 servings)
Café: $4-6
Espresso Costs
Equipment
Budget: $150-300
Mid-Range: $400-700
Premium: $800-2000+
+ Grinder: $150-400
Per Serving
Homemade: $0.30-0.60
Café: $3-5 (espresso), $5-7 (latte)
Yearly Comparison
Daily Drinker (365/year)
Cold Brew (home): $91-182/year + $25-50 equipment
Cold Brew (café): $1,460-2,190/year
Espresso (home): $109-219/year + $250-500 equipment + $150 grinder
Espresso (café): $1,095-2,555/year
Winner: Cold brew slightly cheaper at home
Weekend Drinker (100/year)
Cold Brew (home): $25-50/year
Cold Brew (café): $400-600/year
Espresso (home): $30-60/year
Espresso (café): $300-700/year
Winner: Similar cost - espresso more versatile
Pros and Cons
Cold Brew
Pros
- ✓ Much cheaper equipment
- ✓ Very low per-serving cost
- ✓ No technique required
- ✓ Batch brewing saves time
- ✓ Smooth, low acid flavor
Cons
- ✗ 12-24 hour steep time
- ✗ Less versatile (cold only)
- ✗ No crema or espresso flavor
- ✗ Requires planning ahead
- ✗ Different flavor profile
Espresso
Pros
- ✓ Versatile (hot, iced, lattes, etc.)
- ✓ Instant brewing (once machine heated)
- ✓ Authentic espresso flavor
- ✓ Craft hobby aspect
- ✓ Hot and cold drinks
Cons
- ✗ Higher equipment cost
- ✗ Learning curve
- ✗ Ongoing maintenance costs
- ✗ Requires fresh grinding
- ✗ Takes up counter space
