Jura introduces new compact coffee machine

Jura has introduced the A8, a new ultra-compact coffee machine aimed at urban kitchens with limited counter space. Measuring only 19 cm in width, the A8 is designed to offer the features of a high-end automatic coffee machine in a much smaller footprint.

A8 competes with similar models

The A8 joins the market alongside models such as the Krups Coffee Crush, Philips Baristina, KitchenAid KF4, and Cuisinart EM550E. Priced at 999 €, it promises to deliver all the features of a high-end machine without any compromises, including a touchscreen interface, a wide range of recipes, and the ability to brew two coffees at once.

Design and construction of the A8

The A8 is primarily made of plastic with some stainless steel elements, but it has a high-quality finish and a trustworthy design. It is one of the few machines in its size category to include a true touchscreen interface, which is smooth and user-friendly, guiding users through various settings for coffee and milk-based drinks.

Recipe options and customization

The A8 offers a wide range of recipes, including classic espresso and long black, as well as variations like Hot Brew and Light Brew, and milk-based drinks such as cappuccino, flat white, and latte macchiato. It also includes customization options like brewing two coffees simultaneously and adjusting the grind, features not always found in smaller models.

User interface and software quirks

The A8's touchscreen interface is effective for guiding maintenance and settings, but the software has some peculiarities. For example, users can only adjust the coffee intensity once the grinding process has started, and the water volume in the cup can only be adjusted during the pre-infusion phase.

Water reservoir and maintenance

The A8 has a smaller water reservoir (0.8 L) and smaller collection trays, requiring more frequent refills and emptying. However, it alerts users when water or coffee grounds are running low, helping to prevent interruptions. The machine also limits access to the extraction chamber, relying on descaling tablets and automatic cycles for cleaning.

Efficient water use and noise levels

The A8 uses significantly less water for cleaning compared to similar models, using only 29.5 ml upon startup and 11.6 ml upon shutdown. It is also relatively quiet, with noise levels of 60 dB during grinding and 43 dB during extraction, making it suitable for early mornings.

Precision in coffee brewing

The A8 offers a precision mechanism with up to 10 coffee intensities, validated by laboratory weight measurements. The grinder delivers between 7.5 g and 13.5 g of ground coffee, ensuring a good espresso with the lowest setting meeting the minimum 7 g requirement. The temperature range is also extensive, from 78.5 °C to 91 °C.

Performance and flow rate

The A8 has a slightly less than ideal flow rate, delivering 35.6 ml for a 40 ml request in 15 seconds, which is faster than the typical 20 seconds for optimal flavor extraction. Despite this, it performs well in terms of precision and quiet operation.

Comparisons with similar models

Compared to the Krups Coffee Crush and Cuisinart EM550E, the A8 justifies its higher cost with a true touchscreen interface and detailed settings. While the KitchenAid KF4 offers similar finish quality and noise levels, the A8 has an advantage in navigation fluidity and precise grinding measurements. The Delonghi Rivelia is a larger alternative that includes a milk jug and interchangeable grain containers.