Jura S8 vs X8: 2 Super-Automatic Machines. 1 Is Not As Stable As It Should Be

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In the debate of Jura S8 vs X8, I have found one machine to be faultier than advertised. But if you want a short answer to which is the better espresso maker, Jura S8 is the winner.

Jura S8 has a stable brewing operation that delivers nuanced and aromatic coffee cups after cups. It boasts of a consistent milk frothing system that can make airy and dry microfoam for lattes, macchiatos, or cappuccinos. The price also is reasonable for its quality. I recommend this machine for singles and couples.

Jura X8 has a giant water tank that should be ideal for a large family. This device can brew full-bodied and robust coffee while frothing microfoam. But, the operation isn´t consistent, and I have found some major minus points. Find out for more details below.

Jura S8 vs X8: Specs & Features Comparison Chart

Image
THE WINNER (#1)
Jura S8 15212 Automatic Coffee Machine w/PEP 64oz Capacity Programmable
THE RUNNER-UP (#2)
Jura X8 Platinum Automatic Espresso & Cappuccino Machine with Touch Screen
Model
JURA S8 15212
Jura X8
Dimensions (LxWxH)
12.7 x 20.1 x 16.7 Inches
14.7 x 18.1 x 18.5 inches
Color / Material
Chrome / Stainless Steel
Silver/ Platinum
Weight
20 pounds
30.9 pounds
Power / Voltage
1450W/ 120V
1450W/ 120V
Water Tank Capacity
63.6 oz
167.3 oz
Bean Hopper Capacity
10 oz
17.7 oz
Grinder
Multi-level AromaG3 grinder
Multi-level AromaG3 grinder
Heating System
1 Thermoblock
2 Thermoblocks
Automatic Water Filter Recognition
Touchscreen
Auto-purge
Side Water Tank
Brewing Temperature
Adjustable (3 levels)
Adjustable (2 levels)
Milk System
Carafe
Carafe
Preprogrammed Beverages
15
21
What I Like
Price
$2,206.17
Price not available
THE WINNER (#1)
Image
Jura S8 15212 Automatic Coffee Machine w/PEP 64oz Capacity Programmable
Model
JURA S8 15212
Dimensions (LxWxH)
12.7 x 20.1 x 16.7 Inches
Color / Material
Chrome / Stainless Steel
Weight
20 pounds
Power / Voltage
1450W/ 120V
Water Tank Capacity
63.6 oz
Bean Hopper Capacity
10 oz
Grinder
Multi-level AromaG3 grinder
Heating System
1 Thermoblock
Automatic Water Filter Recognition
Touchscreen
Auto-purge
Side Water Tank
Brewing Temperature
Adjustable (3 levels)
Milk System
Carafe
Preprogrammed Beverages
15
What I Like
Price
$2,206.17
More Info
THE RUNNER-UP (#2)
Image
Jura X8 Platinum Automatic Espresso & Cappuccino Machine with Touch Screen
Model
Jura X8
Dimensions (LxWxH)
14.7 x 18.1 x 18.5 inches
Color / Material
Silver/ Platinum
Weight
30.9 pounds
Power / Voltage
1450W/ 120V
Water Tank Capacity
167.3 oz
Bean Hopper Capacity
17.7 oz
Grinder
Multi-level AromaG3 grinder
Heating System
2 Thermoblocks
Automatic Water Filter Recognition
Touchscreen
Auto-purge
Side Water Tank
Brewing Temperature
Adjustable (2 levels)
Milk System
Carafe
Preprogrammed Beverages
21
What I Like
Price
Price not available
More Info

Last update on 2024-10-27 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Jura S8 vs X8: Differences

Jura S8 wins 3:1 facing Jura X8. The coffee flavor is better, and the operation is much more stable. Depending on the recipes, you can trust the former model to froth creamy or dry milk foam without witnessing mediocre results. It´s a very well-rounded espresso machine.

Coffee Flavor: Jura S8

+Grinder

When it comes to the grinders, I applause both machines. They share the same grinder technology: Aroma G3, which means they have the same 6 settings mechanism.

I have used both models countless times since I got them 2 months ago, and the grinders have been running smoothly without producing loud noise. Jams don´t seem to be a problem because I haven´t experienced it once. It will take me more time to declare with confidence that S8 and X8 don´t jam. But, so far so good.

+Dosing + tamping

With the same 5-16g automatic dosing and tamping, we can expect these models to deliver more or less the same coffee flavor. And it´s true. S8 and X8 brew almost the same types of coffee with the same notes of flavor. But, I still notice that S8 offers a smoother texture with a sweeter tinge. It´s very subtle, but you can tell that it´s there.

Jura S8 brews smooth and nuanced coffees with a sweet tinge
Jura S8 brews smooth and nuanced coffees with a sweet tinge

Also, the crema layers on S8´s espressos are to die for, and I firmly believe that adequate and consistent tamping plays a huge part in. Compared to X8, which can also make good crema, S8 is on another level. The layers are thick, nutty, creamy, and have a good mouthfeel. That´s what we should expect from an impressive espresso machine.

+Heating system

Jura S8 uses 1 Thermoblock while Jura X8 uses 2. But, I find their performance similar in terms of coffee temperature. And the heat-up time takes around 5-10 minutes if you want a hot cup of coffee. Both Jura S8 and Jura X8 can brew hot drinks. For me, this aspect is crucial if you want to enjoy your cup with patience. That´s what I have gotten so far with these babies.

Utilities: Jura X8

Jura X8 has more convenient features than S8, which includes a larger beverages variety and a bigger water tank. Jura X8 boasts of a special one-touch that allows the machine to brew a pot of coffee. If you drink a lot of coffee daily and don´t want to stand up frequently to get your coffee, this feature helps.

Jura X8 offers 21 beverages and a bigger water tank
Jura X8 offers 21 beverages and a bigger water tank

As for the water tank size, Jura X8 is equipped with a 101oz, while Jura S8 uses a 63.6oz one. Refilling X8 will definitely be less frequent.

But, I still want to highlight that S8 has 15 one-touch beverages, which is impressive, and it has a suitable water tank for single users or couples. It operates with higher stability also. So you have to consider carefully before you spend that dough.

Milk system: Jura S8

In coffee machines at the 2000-3000 dollar price range, we expect them to froth microfoam milk automatically and consistently. But, unfortunately, this isn’t always the case since some machines aren’t as stable as they should be according to the advertisements.

Jura S8 has the most flawless milk system that I have ever seen and it does its price justice. The milk system works smoothly, and it can froth dry and airy foam for cappuccinos, and macchiatos. The system switches from steamed milk to milk foam like a piece of cake. Overall, I really enjoy the milk texture that this model can deliver. 10/10

Jura S8 froths microfoam smoothly and consistently
Jura S8 froths microfoam smoothly and consistently

As for X8, it’s been quite sad for me to see the milk system break down from time to time. This model can deliver the same milk texture as Jura S8, but it lacks consistency. The milk frothing step usually is faulty, and it gives me water mixed with milk, not steamed milk or milk foam. So I’m not impressed with what I get so far.

Cleaning & Maintain: Tie 

Cleaning is not a difficult task with Jura S8 and X8 since they have an auto-purge system that rinses the dispensers with hot water when the machines start-up or shut off. This feature allows users to keep the brewing path clean and mold-free.

You don’t have to calculate when to clean them either. On their screens, the machines tell you when it’s time to clean the devices. Follow the instructions, and it should be fine.

Jura S8 vs X8: Similarities

Here are some basic similarities between Jura S8 and Jura X8.

Automatic Water Filter Recognition

Jura has developed a technology that allows its machines to detect CLEARYL Smart water filters automatically. You won’t have to set up the filters or anything. The machines put them to work without requiring a hectic setup.

Side Water Tank

With side water tanks, it’s very convenient to refill Jura S8 and X8. We don’t have to remove them to refill, and the machines don’t require much space as back-loaded espresso makers.

Quick Rundown Of Jura S8

Sale
Jura S8 15212 Automatic Coffee Machine w/PEP 64oz Capacity Programmable
  • ONE TOUCH: Prepare 15 barista quality specialties including espresso, coffee, cappuccino, flat white and latte macchiato at the touch of a button
  • PERFECT ESPRESSO: Ultimate coffee quality thanks to JURA's exclusive Pulse Extraction Process
  • CONICAL BURR GRINDER: Fast and precise AromaG3 grinder grinds whole beans to the optimum fineness
  • ECO FRIENDLY: JURA is always freshly ground, not capsuled - fresh taste with very limited waste - single serve machine
  • CAPACITY: 64 ounce water tank, 10 ounce bean container

Last update on 2024-10-27 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Pros
  • Very stable operation
  • Flavorful, nuanced, aromatic coffee
  • Coffees and espressos come out hot
  • Can froth microfoam with airy and dry texture, perfect for cappuccino
  • Intuitive system with straightforward control
  • Good price
Cons
  • Small water tank, ideal for small households or couples only

Quick Rundown Of Jura X8

Jura X8 Platinum Automatic Espresso & Cappuccino Machine with Touch Screen
  • 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 2024-10-27 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Pros
  • Airy and dry milk foam texture, great for cappuccino
  • Nuanced coffee flavor with thick and nutty crema
  • The machine doesn’t make much noise when grinding
  • Good coffee temperature
Cons
  • Faulty milk system that doesn’t operate with much stability
  • Noisy when frothing milk

Product Videos

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  4. Jura E8 vs X8 Review: Which One Is For You? Comparing The Features & Performance Of Jura’s Automated Espresso Machines

References:

Jura S8: https://us.jura.com/en/homeproducts/machines/S8-Moonlight-Silver-NA-15210-v19/Specifications

Jura X8: https://us.jura.com/en/professional/machines/X8-Platin-NA-15177/Specifications#tabs

5/5 - (1 vote)