Here is our review on the Jura S8 vs Jura Z8.
In this comparison review, I will be discussing which is the best espresso machine between the Jura S8 and Jura Z8.
The Jura S8 and Jura Z8 are both considered luxurious espresso machines so it’s important to know which one is best for you. Both of these machines have its pros, cons, and features including pricing and special features.
So, let’s get started:
- Jura S8 vs Z8: At A Glance
- Jura S8 Overview
- Jura Z8 Overview
- Jura S8 vs Z8: Features Compared
- Jura S8 vs Z8: The Winner
Jura S8 vs Z8: At A Glance
The Jura S8 and the Jura Z8 both seem like they have very similar functionality when looking at their designs. But there are a few features that differentiate these two machines from each other including programmability, sizing, and pricing.
The Jura S8 is on the more affordable perspective compared to the Jura Z8 which offers a bit more functionality. So if you would like to know which Jura machine is a better buying decision then make sure to read through our comparison review.
Jura S8 Overview
The Jura S8 is the start to the premium model machines of Jura which explains its striking stylish design. It was one of the first machines to introduce the large 4.3” touchscreen making it easy to navigate and customize the different beverages. However, when compared to the Jura Z8, the Jura S8 is a more affordable option that still comes with a high level of programmability.
Pros
More affordable than the Jura S8: The Jura S8 has an impressive range of speciality drinks it can make from espresso’s to herbal teas. This is a big upside if you love to try different beverages all the time.
More compact than the Jura Z8: Although the difference in size between these two machines is little, it’s still a lighter and smaller machine. This is convenient if you don’t have much kitchen counter space.
Cons
Less programmable than the Jura Z8: The Jura Z8 allows you to program and adjust the temperature of the milk/milk foam if you’re someone who likes to use hot milk in their coffee. Unfortunately, the Jura S8 does not come with this programmable feature.
Jura Z8 Overview
The Jura Z8 is one of the most premium and luxurious espresso machines for your home. It has arguably the best design out of all Jura’s espresso machines in my opinion. With its blue illuminated water tank, high quality build, and high level of programmability, there’s a reason for its expensive price tag.
Pros
Brews up to 21 specialty drinks: The Jura Z8 is one of the best espresso machines if you like a whopping range of specialty drinks. It has 6 more specialty drinks than the Jura S8 which means that this could influence your buying decision if you like full customization.
Dual thermoblock heating system: The Jura S8 allows you to brew espresso and steamed milk but only one at a time. With the Jura Z8’s dual thermoblock system, you can brew espresso and steam milk simultaneously which does save you more time.
Larger water tank capacity than the Jura S8: The Jura Z8’s water reservoir is almost 1/3 larger in size than the Jura S8’s water reservoir. This allows you to brew an extra 18 espresso shots before needing to refill the water reservoir.
Cons
More expensive than the Jura S8: The Jura Z8 is one of the most expensive espresso machines that Jura has to offer. Although the Jura S8 is also quite pricey, the Jura Z8 is over $1000 more expensive than the Jura S8.
Jura S8 vs Z8: Features Compared
Here is a list of features that both the Jura S8 and Jura Z8 have. I will also discuss how these features are compared between the two machines:
Grinder
The grinder is arguably the most important factor that determines the brewing quality of your espresso shot.
Fortunately, both the Jura S8 and Jura Z8 have the all new multi-level AromaG3 grinder which is currently the best grinder Jura produces. Multi-level grinders allow the espresso machine to grind at more precise grind sizes. This makes the espresso shots finer with more even extraction
Water Reservoir
The Jura S8 and Jura Z8 both have decent sized water reservoir capacities, however, there is a distinct difference between the two:
The Jura S8 has a 63.6 ounce water reservoir size whilst the Jura Z8 has a size of 81.3 ounces. The Jura Z8 is almost a third the size larger than the Jura S8 which makes the Jura Z8 the winner between the two.
What I also love about the Jura Z8 is that it comes with a blue illuminated water tank. This makes the overall design much more exciting compared to the Jura S8.
Special Features
Here is a table of all the advanced features that either the Jura S8 or Jura Z8 have:
| Feature | Jura S8 | Jura Z8 |
|---|---|---|
| Pulse Extraction Process | ✔ | ✔ |
| One Touch Lungo Function | ✖ | ✔ |
| One Touch Function | ✔ | ✖ |
| Grinder Type | Multi-level AromaG3 Grinder | Multi-level AromaG3 Grinder |
| High Performance Pump 15 Bar | 1 | 2 |
| Thermoblock Heating System | 1 | 2 |
| Fluid Systems | 1 | 2 |
| Milk System | HP3 | HP3 |
| Powder Chute For Ground Coffee | ✔ | ✔ |
| Aroma Preservation Cover | ✔ | ✔ |
| Active Bean Monitoring | ✔ | ✔ |
| Transmitter Supplied | ✖ | ✖ |
Digital Display
When it comes to the digital display, both the Jura S8 and Jura Z8 come with a 4.3 inch sensitive touch screen which makes it easy to operate the espresso machines.
I find the touchscreens to be easier to use compared to button operated screens like the Jura E8. This also makes these machines seem more premium.
Programmable Features
Here is a list of programmable features that the Jura S8 and Jura Z8 have:
| Feature | Jura S8 | Jura Z8 |
|---|---|---|
| Compatible with J.O.E® | ✔ | ✔ |
| Rotary Switch | ✖ | ✔ |
| Digital Display | 4.3” Touchscreen | 4.3” Touchscreen |
| Save, Copy, Personalize Beverages | ✔ | ✔ |
| Programmable Water Dosage | ✔ | ✔ |
| Specialty Drinks | 15 | 21 |
| Programmable Coffee Strength (Levels) | 10 | 10 |
| Programmable Milk Temperature (Levels) | ✖ | ✔ |
| Programmable Brewing Temperature (Levels) | 3 | 3 |
| Programmable Water Temperature (Levels) | 3 | 3 |
Milk System
Both the Jura S8 and Jura Z8 have identical milk systems which means you’re not missing out on any special features from either of the two. The only difference I would say between these two milk systems is that you can steam and brew simultaneously on the Jura Z8 unlike on the Jura S8.
Design
Here is a table that will best compare the Jura S8 and Jura Z8’s size and dimensions:
| Size/Dimension | Jura S8 | Jura Z8 |
|---|---|---|
| Weight (lbs) | 22.1 | 29.5 |
| Width (inches) | 11 | 12.6 |
| Height (inches) | 13.7 | 15 |
| Depth (inches) | 17.5 | 17.7 |
| Height Adjustable Dual Spout (inches) | ✖ | 3.2-6 |
| Height Adjustable Coffee Spout (inches) | 2.8-4.6 | 3.2-6 |
| Height Adjustable Cappuccino Spout (inches) | 4.4-6.2 | 3.2-6 |
| Height Adjustable Hot Water Spout (inches) | 4.4-6.2 | 3.2-6 |
| Water Tank Capacity (ounces) | 63.6 | 81.3 |
| Bean Hopper Capacity (ounces) | 9.9 | 9.9 |
| Coffee Grounds Container | 16 | 20 |
Cleaning and Maintenance
Cleaning and maintenance is pretty much the same when it comes to the Jura S8 vs Z8. Both these machines come with Jura’s automatic cleaning and descaling function as well as water filter cartridges.
The only manual requirements needed to do are wiping down the exterior parts of these machines every now and then. You also need to make sure to clean out the drip tray and grounds basket.
Pricing
There is a major difference in pricing when it comes to the Jura S8 and Jura Z8. The Jura S8 sits just under $3000 whilst the Jura Z8 is well over $4000. There is more than a $1000 difference between the two espresso machines which means that pricing will play a major role in your buying decision.
Jura S8 vs Z8: The Winner
The Jura S8 and Jura Z8 are obviously both fantastic espresso machines which makes it hard to choose a clear winner. But I am going to have to give first place to the Jura S8 over the Jura Z8.
Although the Jura Z8 has a dual thermoblock heating system and a bit more programmability, I don’t think it’s worth an extra $1500 over the Jura S8. However, if you want those extra features and more water capacity, then the Jura Z8 is still up for grabs.
If you’ve read this comparison review and found that neither of these espresso machines are for you, make sure to read our review on the Jura Z6 vs Jura S8.