Craving the savory bliss of your favorite barista-brewed espresso but can’t find the time to swing by your beloved coffee shop? Yes, Jura has got you covered! This Swiss brand has crafted a line of exceptional super-automatic coffee machines, to make this caffeinated dream come true.
Brimming with state-of-the-art features and eye-catching appearance, it’s no hyperbole to dub the Jura Giga 5 the “Ferrari” of coffee machines. This luxury gadget is living proof that refined, exquisite coffee can be created in your own kitchen. As one of Jura’s priciest models, its lofty price tag is enough to raise the eyebrows of many people. However, consider it an investment – it could prove less expensive than your daily trips to the local coffee shop over time.
If the Jura GIGA 5 seems a tad extravagant for your home use or exceeds your budget, consider the Jura Z6 as a fantastic alternative. This one boasts many of Jura’s cutting-edge features, like the Aroma G3 conical grinder, I.P.B.A.S., P.E.P., and even artificial intelligence, and so forth and so on.
Jura Giga 5 Vs Z6: Comparison Chart
Last update on 2023-11-30 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Jura Giga 5 Vs Z6: Differences
The Jura Giga 5 outshines the Z6 with a 4-2 win and two ties. That’s just the tip of the iceberg! There’s a treasure trove of exceptional features just waiting for you to uncover!
Coffee Flavour
Winner: Tie
Built-in Grinder
Jura Z6 features an Aroma G3 conical grinder, which is designed for grinding quickly with minimal noise. Better yet, it doesn’t overheat in operation, so it does not burn the coffee powders, retaining the full, rich aroma of the coffee beans. As a leap forward in grinder technology, the Aroma G3 is quoted for extracting up to 12.2% more aroma than conventional grinders. I can’t personally verify the precision of this claim, but I am confident that it surpasses the performance of the Aroma G2 grinder, commonly found in more affordable models like the Jura D6.
The Jura Z6 offers only six grind settings. To be honest, I initially expected to get more grind settings on such an expensive machine. But I don’t consider this a con since I could easily find an optimal setting that suited my taste, and adjusting between settings was a straightforward task. Remember that changing the grinding level when the grinder isn’t operating may damage the grinder adjustment switch. In addition, coffee beans that are treated with additives, such as sugar, freeze-dried coffee, or ground coffee, can damage the grinder as well.
On the flip side, the Jura Giga 5 features two wear-free ceramic disc grinders. Compared with stainless steel discs, they have some outstanding advantages, such as not wearing out quickly and providing years of consistent, reliable grinding. Also, these grinders are less likely to cause the beans to overheat, which can damage their flavor. However, this type of grinder produces a slightly less consistent grind size than the Aroma G3 conical grinder, which can potentially affect the flavor extraction in brewing espresso.
Each grinder of the Jura Giga 5 has five grind settings. You can adjust each grinder to a different setting, allowing you to play around with various combinations of fineness and coarseness to unlock unique flavors in espresso.
Heating System
While the Jura Giga 5 is equipped with a dual thermoblock boiler system, the Z6 comes with a single boiler setup. Considering the premium pricing of the Z6, I initially expected it to include a dual boiler system, but it doesn’t.
Due to its single boiler design, the Z6 cannot brew and steam simultaneously. Consequently, these two processes will occur sequentially, either brewing first and then steaming or vice versa. Fortunately, Jura made up for this by equipping the Z6 with thermoblock technology.
Instead of heating up a full water boiler, the thermoblock boiler just heats the water on demand for brewing (or steaming). That way, this technology can significantly speed up the weather-heating process, reportedly reducing downtime to a mere 10 seconds. I found the actual delay between processes to last a bit longer, around 13-14 seconds, but that’s still a significant improvement.
On the other hand, the GIGA 5 boasts a dual internal thermoblock system, enabling simultaneous heating of milk and coffee. This feature allows for quicker preparation of milk-based beverages like macchiatos and cappuccinos or the seamless brewing of consecutive espressos, which results in fewer queues and far more happy faces in the morning.
Although the Z6 can’t brew and steam simultaneously, its rapid water heating mechanism compensates for this. So if your usage is typically limited to one or two drinks per session at home, this won’t pose a significant disadvantage. Meanwhile, the Jura Giga 5, with its dual heating ability, is an ideal fit for environments such as coffee shops, large offices, or restaurants, where there’s a constant demand for larger batches of coffee.
Brewing System
As for the brewing system, the Jura Giga 5 vs Z6 share a stellar combination of the Intelligent Pre-Brew Aroma System and the Pulse Extraction Process.
These innovations are the fruit of years of meticulous research by the ingenious minds at Jura, all aimed at delivering superior espresso experiences to coffee connoisseurs worldwide. As a result, the Jura Giga 5 and Z6 machines are virtually neck and neck in their ability to deliver exceptional espresso flavors. To avoid overwhelming you with these potentially perplexing terms, let me explain them in a more accessible way:
The Intelligent Pre-Brew Aroma System (or I.P.B.A.S.) essentially pre-moistens the coffee grounds with a dash of hot water before brewing. Specifically, a small quantity of hot water is introduced into the coffee grounds to make them swell, which maximizes the extraction of the rich flavors from the coffee.
Following this, the Pulse Extraction Process (or P.E.P.), the cornerstone of the brewing system, comes into play. Unlike many other models maintaining a continuous flow, this system pulses hot water through the ground coffee in short bursts. The result? An espresso that astounds you with unprecedented intensity and aromas.
Milk Frothing System
Both the Jura Giga 5 vs Z6 come equipped with a fully automatic milk frothing system, allowing you to enjoy finely textured and long-lasting milk without having to tire your wrist to master the art of manual frothing.
Both models also allow you to fine-tune the amount of milk and foam in sec per cup. This may require a bit of trial and error to find the optimal ratio. In this respect, I prefer the Jura S8 since Its milk frother has a switch that allows me to adjust the milk foam in real time, giving me even more control over my own destiny!
One area where the Jura Z6 shines brighter than its competitor is its ability to adjust the temperature of milk and milk foam across ten different levels. Once you’ve chosen your preferred setting, it will automatically apply to all beverages that require milk.
These machines automate almost everything, and the only thing you need to do is push a button, making them beginner-friendly. So you don’t have to be a seasoned barista to make those delicious cappuccinos. But don’t expect to get the latte art often found in the coffee house. That’s why baristas always say No to super-automatic machines and give the nod to wand-equipped machines.
It is worth noting that the Jura Z6 does not come with a milk container. Considering this one cost me over three grand, all necessary accessories should be included. Of course, if you wish, you can purchase a Jura milk carafe separately, or alternatively, use a suitable container you already have at hand.
Design & Usability
Winner: Jura Giga 5
Dimensions, Footprint, & Weight
| Jura Giga 5 | Jura Z6 | |
|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 13 x 15 x 20 inches | 12.6 x 17.7 x 14.8 inches |
| Weight | 40 pounds | 25.4 lbs |
If your heart is set on a machine with an ultra-modern or out-of-this-world aesthetic, these models may not meet your expectations. It appears that the Jura engineers have channeled their creativity into crafting a device capable of producing the perfect cup of coffee rather than a mere kitchen ornament. However, these models exude a hard-to-ignore and understated elegance that is bound to draw the eye and make them the centerpiece of any kitchen.
The Jura Giga 5 is one of the biggest and heaviest super-autos I’ve ever touched, but it has enough reason to justify this – It has a generous water reservoir and twin ample-sized bean hoppers, among other features I’ll discuss in detail later. So this behemoth is ideally suited to bustling office environments or large families. But, if you have more modest kitchen space or counters, the Jura Z6 would be a better fit, despite not being exactly compact.
Pre-Programmed Coffee Options
| Jura Giga 5 | Jura Z6 |
|---|---|
| Ristretto espresso Coffee Cappuccino Caffè latte Macchiato Espresso macchiato Latte macchiato Portion of milk foam, Portion of milk Hot water 2 x Ristretto 2 x Espresso 2 x Coffee 2 x Cappuccino 2 x Caffè latte 2 x Macchiato 2 x Latte macchiato 2 x Portion of milk foam 2 x Portion of milk | Ristretto Espresso Coffee Cappuccino Latte macchiato Flat white Espresso macchiato Portion of milk foam Milk Hot water 2 x Ristretto 2 x Espresso 2 x Coffee |
One defining feature of super-automatic coffee machines is the array of one-touch beverage selections they offer, and both the Jura Giga 5 vs Z6 certainly uphold this tradition. The Jura Giga 5 left me awe-struck with its 20 pre-programmed drink options – this wide variety makes this one a godsend in bustling cafes, law firms, architectural studios, and large corporate offices alike. On the other hand, the Jura Z6 boasts 14 drink presets, which is also great. These machines seem overkill for home use, but they can ensure every coffee craving is catered for, minus the need for a professional barista.
For those seeking a deeper dive into the barista experience, these machines offer many customizable settings. You can adjust parameters such as coffee strength, water temperature, amount of milk, and amount of milk foam, to name a few, allowing you to craft a near-infinite array of drink variations. At the end of the day, once you’ve found your own favorite recipes, you can save them and have them ready for future use with the push of a button.
Moreover, you can also use pre-ground coffee with these machines by pouring it into the bypass doser. This feature benefits households with decaf drinkers or serves as a handy backup on those hectic mornings when you’re short on time for the full “bean-to-cup” process.
Spout & Cup Clearance
| Jura Giga 5 | Jura Z6 | |
|---|---|---|
| Spout Type | Dual | Dual |
| Cup Clearance | 2.7 – 6.2 inches | 3.2 – 6 inches |
Both the Jura Giga 5 vs Z6 feature a butterfly-designed coffee spout that can be adjusted vertically and horizontally for ultimate flexibility. While the Jura Giga 5 has a wider cup clearance, theoretically accommodating a broader range of cups and mugs, both machines comfortably fit all my cups, even the travel-sized ones. They also have an adjustable hot water spout that can be used for making tea or diluting espresso.
Meanwhile, the Jura Giga 5 stands out with its dual milk spout design, contrasting with the single spout featured on the Jura Z6. This means that the Giga 5 has the capability to brew two milk-based beverages (cappuccino, caffè latte, and espresso) simultaneously, a feat that its counterpart, the Z6, can’t match. There is a handy, reliable light here.
The Z6 comes equipped with a magnetically-secured splash guard aligned with the milk spout, a nifty feature intended to prevent any stray droplets of coffee or milk from splattering onto the machine’s casing. I noticed there was still a considerable amount of splatter, but half a loaf is better than none.
Water Reservoir & Bean Hopper
| Jura Giga 5 | Jura Z6 | |
|---|---|---|
| Water Reservoir | 2.57 liter | 2.4 liter |
| Bean Hopper | 0.29 liter | 0.29 liter |
The Jura Giga 5 boasts a robust 2.57-liter water tank, slightly outpacing the already sizeable 2.4-liter reservoir of the Jura Z6. This means they make about fifteen 6-ounce cups before needing to be refilled. These large volumes are typically more than sufficient for home use and are even adequate in more demanding settings like bars and cafes.
The Giga 5’s water tank comes equipped with an integrated light that can be set to either ‘permanent’ mode, keeping the reservoir consistently illuminated, or ‘temporary’ mode, which only lights up while the machine is in use. This feature is a commendable addition, as it makes monitoring the water level a breeze, even if it’s midnight or if the machine is located in a less brightly lit space.
On the other hand, the Jura Z6’s bean hopper has a capacity of 0.29 liter, while the Jura Giga 5 excels with a pair of 0.29-liter bean tanks. The dual hopper design of the latter allows for larger storage of one bean type or the use of two different types of beans simultaneously. As a result, you can create new recipes by mixing the coffee from the two bean hoppers with various proportions ( 100% left, 75% left – 25% right, a balanced 50-50 blend, 25% left – 75% right, and 100% right). This is a godsend for coffee connoisseurs who love the opportunity to experiment and create their own one-of-a-kind coffee blends.
Cleaning & Maintenance
Winner: Tie
Another thing that is also automated on these machines is maintenance. They will alert you when cleaning and maintenance are needed via their digital displays. And all you need to do is prepare the necessary materials, such as cleaning tablets for descaling the machine, a multi-compartment milk system container, and a milk cleaner for cleaning milk systems. After that, the machine will take care of the rest.
In addition, there are a few manual tasks you need to perform periodically, including emptying the dregs basket as well as the drip tray and cleaning the milk frother. All of them are straightforward and don’t take much time, but they are crucial for maintaining the performance and hygiene of the espresso machine.
Water usually contains various minerals, including calcium and its compounds, which can deposit scale inside the coffee machine when heated. This not only affects the performance of the gadget but also negatively impacts the taste of the espresso over time.
Luckily, you can mitigate, if not entirely avoid, this concern by employing the Clearyl filter cartridge, an accessory that’s included in the package. Although the use of this filter is discretionary, I strongly endorse it, particularly when the water hardness exceeds 10°dH (You can measure this using the provided Aquadur test strip). The display will also let you know when the filter needs to be replaced.
Utilities & Other Features
Winner: Jura Giga 5
User Interface & App Connectivity
A shared feature between the Jura Giga 5 and the Z6 is the vibrant and crystal-clear TFT (Thin Film Transistor) color display. While it may not offer touch capability, this doesn’t detract from its appeal, in my opinion. It is easy to choose the desired beverage and make all the customizations through the buttons. Better yet, as mentioned above, it also gives maintenance notifications, so you always know when your machine needs a little tender loving care.
Moreover, the J.O.E app facilitates a comprehensive remote control over the espresso brewing journey, ranging from drink selection to intricate customizations. As such, you can linger a little longer in your morning slumber and entrust the coffee preparation entirely to your personalized, automated barista.
Artificial Intelligence
A distinct advantage of the Jura Z6 over the Giga 5 is its intelligent functionality that learns and memorizes your beverage preferences. Then it will prioritize and showcases your favorite selections on the primary display for easy access. Thanks to that, you can continue your unfinished sleep and let the machine do the job.
Energy Saving
Like many smartphones, these espresso machines incorporate an “Energy Saving,” which reduces the device’s power consumption while temporarily suspending some functionalities. Furthermore, they include an “Automatic switch-off” function, which, when activated, the machine will switch off automatically after the preset time following the last action on it, reducing energy consumption. This feature is a godsend to those who may sometimes forget to switch off their appliances. Moreover, the Jura Giga 5 includes a “Timer” feature, allowing you to program the machine’s operation hours for each day of the week, automating its power on and off based on your customized schedule.
Barista Recipes
This is one of my favorite features. When it is activated, the Giga 5’s list of available drinks will be expanded to more than 30 options, including some unique milk-based beverages and enticing cocktails. When you choose one of these special recipes, the display will walk you through all the needed steps to prepare the drink, from preparing the ingredients.
Quick Rundown Of Jura Giga 5
- MASTER BREWER: Brews an unprecedented range of specialty coffees
- FEATURES: Two Grinders and Two Heating Systems
- TFT DISPLAY: Allows you to easily brew your speciality coffee in no time
- PROGRAMMABLE: 19 individually programmable specialty coffees
- BUNDLE INCLUDES: Jura Giga 5 13623 Cappuccino and Latte Macchiato System, Jura Cup Warmer Black Stainless Steel, Jura Cool Control Milk Cooler, Capresso 25-pack Coffee Machine Cleaning Tablets, 2 Espresso Cups and Saucers
Last update on 2023-11-30 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Quick Rundown Of Jura Z6
- The pulse extraction process (P.E.P.) allows the whole bouquet of aromas to Blossom. Result: possibly the best Espresso of all time - at the touch of a button
- The innovative nozzle technology prepares fine, compact and very tempting milk foam. The machine switches from milk to milk foam fully automatically
- The Z6 packs incredible performance into compact Dimensions. All the control elements are conveniently accessible on the front
- Maintenance is just as easy as preparing a Coffee: one touch of a button is all that's needed
- Only Original Jura maintenance products Guarantee complete hygiene and protection. Only our protective formulas have been carefully optimized to suit the programmed and materials used in Jura automatic machines.
Last update on 2023-11-30 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
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References:
- Jura Giga 5: https://sa.jura.com/en/homeproducts/machines/GIGA-5-Alu-13717SA
- Jura Z6: https://au.jura.com/en/homeproducts/factory-service-machines/Z6-2018-Diamond-Black-INT-15263-S1
I’m Floyd J. Alcock, an experienced barista with a deep love for coffee. I curate personalized coffee experiences, guiding customers through diverse flavor profiles and suggesting ideal brewing methods. My extensive knowledge of espresso machines enables me to recommend the best equipment to match specific needs and budgets. Sharing my expertise and passion with coffee enthusiasts brings immense satisfaction. I look forward to continuing my journey of coffee discovery with every customer I serve, fostering connections over a shared love for this magical beverage.