Cold Brew vs. Iced Coffee: Which One Is Better for You?

The menus at coffee shops these days are getting longer and longer. Even the options for a simple iced coffee may seem too complicated. If you have ever wondered about the difference between a cold brew versus iced coffee, we’re here to give you an answer. And in a lot more detail — from a science, nutrition, and taste standpoint — than your busy barista has time for. 

What’s the difference between cold brew vs. iced coffee?

The main differences between cold brew and iced coffee stems from how they are made. This affects their taste, caffeine content, and cost. The table below provides a side-by-side comparison of their main differences. 

How are cold brew and iced coffee made?

Cold brew coffee sales have skyrocketed over the past decade. And many different brands and coffee shops are making their own versions. That is to say, there’s not one single way to make cold brew coffee. 

In general, it’s made by cold-pressing coarse coffee grounds over the course of 7 to 24 hours. Medium roast beans are most often used for cold brew. 

Iced coffee, on the other hand, starts with just regular hot brewed coffee. It’s then chilled in the refrigerator and served on ice. The coffee can be made using a French press, traditional drip coffee maker, or a pour-over method. 

Do you use the same kinds of beans for cold brew and iced coffee? 

Any medium or dark roast coffee bean will work for both cold brew and iced coffee. Although most manufacturers of cold brew coffee use Arabica beans for their quality and flavor. 

The main difference in the beans between cold brew and iced coffee is how they are ground. Cold brew beans should be coarse ground. Iced coffee beans should be finely ground just as you would for regular hot coffee. 

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Does cold brew or iced coffee have more caffeine?

Cold brew coffee has a slightly higher caffeine content (205 mg for 16 oz) when compared to iced coffee (185 mg for 16 oz). But each brand and coffee shop follows their own process for making cold brew coffee, which can affect the caffeine content. Check the label on any store-bought coffee drinks for their individual caffeine content. 

Is cold brew or iced coffee healthier?

Any type of plain coffee — iced or cold brew — is considered a low-calorie drink. This means it provides fewer than 5 calories per 16 oz cup. But the calories can add up depending on what you add to coffee. 

Sometimes it’s fun to enjoy a fancy coffee drink as a treat. But if you’re enjoying these drinks regularly, it’s helpful to be mindful of the calories and sugar. Specialty coffee drinks can have anywhere from 300 to 600 calories. 

Here are a few tips to make your cup of joe a little bit healthier: 

• Cut the pumps of sweetener or flavoring in half. Some drinks have four to six pumps of syrup in them. And just one pump of syrup has about 20 calories and 5 g of sugar.

• Opt for milk instead of creamer — 2% milk has fewer calories than whole milk and comes with high-quality protein. 

• If you’re making your coffee at home, consider using liquid stevia drops or a sugar substitute that doesn’t add calories.  

Beyond being low in calories, coffee also has been considered a functional beverage because of its health benefits. Certain compounds in coffee have been linked to positive effects on brain health, gut health, and heart health. It’s likely because coffee contains high levels of antioxidants. 

Research suggests that hot brew coffee has higher antioxidant content than cold brew. The hot water in the brewing process helps the coffee beans release health-promoting compounds — such as antioxidants — into the drink. 

How to make iced or cold brew coffee at home

It’s easier to make iced coffee at home than cold brew. 

For iced coffee, simply brew your own hot coffee using a drip coffee machine, French press, or pour over. According to the National Coffee Association, use 1 oz to 2 oz of fine grounds for every 6 oz of water. Then, cool in the fridge and top with ice. 

Cold brew coffee takes a bit more planning and preparation time. To make cold brew, you will need: 

• A coffee grinder (if you opt for whole beans) 

• Coffee filters 

• Medium roast coffee beans 

• A French press, cold brew coffee maker, or a jar 

• Filtered water (not softened or distilled) 

To make the cold brew coffee: 

1. Follow the instructions on your specific cold brew coffee maker if you’re going that route. If you’re using a jar or French press, you can experiment with different ratios of grounds to water for your preferred strength. A good place to start is to use 4 tbsp of grounds for 1 cup of water. 

2. Allow the coffee grounds and water to sit at room temperature or in the fridge for 12 hours. 

3. Then, use a filter or French press to separate the grounds from the cold brew. 

4. Enjoy the cold brew coffee cold and add your favorite type of milk. 

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Written by:

Kerry Hackworth, MS, RD, LDN

Kerry Hackworth has been in the field of nutrition for over a decade. Her career began in corporate wellness, where she provided personalized health coaching.

Edited by:

Katie E. Golden, MD

Katie E. Golden, MD, is a board-certified emergency medicine physician and a medical editor at GoodRx.

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