Jura C3 Review: Is This New Machine Worth Buying?

Jura coffee machines are elegant, innovative, sometimes over-the-top and always a bit snobby. After all, that’s why people love the brand. Modesty just doesn’t fit its character. Things don’t look any different in this Jura C3 review.

It’s no surprise that every Jura machine that has touted simplicity as its hallmark has performed poorly in my fully automatic coffee machine tests. This wasn’t due to the beverages, the design or the quality. It was almost always because of the price-performance ratio. 

The Jura C3, a “Pure Coffee” fully automatic machine in the “Premium Economy” range is the latest attempt to create a machine that prioritizes simplicity. It offers only black coffee specialties, with no milk system and certainly no fancy new operating concept.

You’re supposed to be enticed to buy it solely based on the character of the drinks, the machine’s design, and Jura’s brand image. Can that really work? Well, I bought the Jura C3 to test out and I’ll do my best to answer that question in this updated review.

Jura C3

A rather limited machine that makes superb espresso

Compact footprint

Premium feel

Makes excellent coffee and espresso

Easy to use

Expensive for what you get

No milk system

CHECK PRICE

All specifications

Jura C3
Manufacturer	Jura
Model number	15780
Product category	Super automatic espresso machine
Removable brew group
Housing material	Plastic
Color options	Piano Black, Piano White
Milk frother	None
User interface	Text display with buttons
App
User profiles	Memo function only
Removable water reservoir
Water reservoir capacity	54.1 fl oz / 1.6 l
Number of boilers	1
Pump pressure	15 bar
Maximum cup height	4.3 in / 10.9 cm
Minimum cup height	3.1 in / 7.9 cm
Grinder	Stainless steel conical burr grinder
Grind adjustment levels	7
Bean hopper capacity	6.8 oz / 200.0 g
Pre-ground coffee bypass
Grounds discard container capacity	16
Specialty drinks	4
Pre-infusion
Adjustable coffee temperature
Adjustable milk foam temperature
Adjustable milk temperature
2-cup function	Yes (non-milk drinks only)
Pot function
Hot water function
Hot milk function
Milk foam only option
Water filter
Power consumption	1450 W
Weight	19.4 lb / 8.8 kg
Dimensions	12.8 x 10.2 x 17.2 in 32.5 x 25.9 x 43.7 cm
Warranty	2 years
Notes	Included Accessories: User manual, coffee scoop, water filter, cleaning products
Current price on Amazon	$1,199.00
All specifications

Jura C3 Review Overview

Coffeeness Medium Roast Espresso

Well-balanced with chocolate & hazelnut notes

Freshly roasted in Brooklyn

Very low acidity

To the Coffeeness Shop

It’s no coincidence that I’m already skeptical of the : it’s yet another attempt by the Swiss to popularize a fully automatic coffee machine without a milk frother. We’ve seen this before with the Jura ENA 4, the Jura E4 and a few other models that have long since faded into obscurity.

Jura’s marketing department has pulled out all the stops in describing the C3. But features like the Professional Aroma Grinder (P.A.G.), Jura Operating Experience (J.O.E.), or Pulse Extraction Process (P.E.P.) don’t sound quite as exciting as they used to.

So why not compare a fully automatic coffee machine to an airplane and call the C3 “Premium Economy Class”? Or why not advertise it with a full-size brewing unit and a grinder?

That’s kind of like advertising water by promoting wetness or a car by mentioning its steering wheel. And unfortunately, “Premium Economy” doesn’t sound like luxury and comfort, but rather like upselling seats on a budget airline.

It quickly becomes clear that Jura is well aware that the C3 in Piano Black doesn’t really offer much. The available functions are, after all, quite limited:

Other “Pure Coffee” fully automatic coffee machines, such as the Terra Kaffe Demi or the Melitta Caffeo Solo, don’t offer much more either. But they cost a good deal less.

I see no reasonable justification for Jura’s $1,199.00 asking price, whether in terms of the operating concept, the design, the technology or the dimensions of the C3. But the joke is: That’s exactly what defines Jura’s character.

Jura C3 Features

At this point, some of you will likely feel like the Jura C3 is pretty pointless. I mean, it can’t even make a cappuccino! Still, I know that many of you are interested in the idea of superb espresso at the touch of a button and don’t care about milk foam. So, for the latter crowd, let’s keep the ball rolling in this Jura C3 review.

Size and Design

One of the supposed standout features of the new C-Class, including the C3 and the Jura C9, is the compact dimensions of these fully automatic coffee machines. But even here, marketing claims and reality diverge:

Let’s compare the C3 with the Terra Kaffe Demi, currently one of the smallest fully automatic coffee machines on the market. Measuring 32.5 x 19.1 x 40 inches (12.8 x 7.5 x 15.7 centimeters) it’ll fit into any tight corner. The Jura C3 alone is a full 6 inches wider.

Furthermore, the C3 isn’t significantly more compact than other models from the same manufacturer. The current Jura E8, with its milk system and countless features, is only one centimeter wider, just under two centimeters taller, and not even three centimeters deeper.

With all that said, there’s no denying the fact that this is a sleek, understated design masterpiece. I particularly appreciate the C3’s elegant silhouette and convex-concave curves. What’s more, the machine’s 54-ounce (1.6-liter) water tank fits seamlessly into the side panel and features a nice wave design.

User Interface

I haven’t yet come across a Jura fully automatic coffee machine whose control system I’ve been completely wowed by. The Swiss are constantly experimenting with new front panel and display designs, but they never quite hit the mark.

The Easy Control Panel on the Jura C3 immediately evokes a retro vibe. Even the button-based controls on the current E8 don’t look quite as outdated.

The Easy Control Panel is a text display with monochrome LCD animations during brewing and a few buttons for settings. Think of a Tamagotchi from 1997 and you’ll know what I mean.

Listen, I don’t need app control or touchscreen technology to be happy with a fully automatic machine. But for almost $1,200.00, I’d expect more modern features. Because text displays not only look outdated, they’re also less intuitive.

On the other hand, there are so few settings on the C3 that you won’t need much intuition or even the user manual. Once you’ve selected your coffee volume, strength and temperature settings, you won’t really need to adjust the Jura C3 again.

Precisely because there’s so little to do here, using the J.O.E. app is completely unnecessary. So you might as well skip it altogether.

Professional Aroma Grinder

Anyone who has always used any other grinder will have had to adjust to a few changes with Jura in recent times. The traditional grind settings are gradually being phased out, and instead, a scale ranging from Mild to Intense is displayed on the adjustment dial in the bean hopper.

Actually, I think this makes sense, since the standard navigation on fully automatic machines is hard for beginners to figure out. So the C3 makes it easy for us to select the second-finest setting in the Intense range, which is a sensible choice for most coffee beans.

At 68.5 decibels, the conical burr grinder in the C3 just barely meets my benchmark for a quiet grinder. However, the Swiss have once again proven that high-quality plastic and a well-crafted chassis improve a machine’s sound dampening capabilities. The quality of the grinder noise is neither annoying nor soothing; the machine sounds perfectly acceptable.

Specialty Drinks

There isn’t much to discuss in terms of specialty drinks, seeing as the Jura C3 makes only espresso and coffee. Still, if that sounds like your idea of the best fully automatic espresso machine, you’re in luck.

I’m slowly running out of words to describe the varied espresso and coffee flavors from a Jura machine. I mean, there are only so many times I can use “chocolatey,” “multifaceted” and “tangy” without sounding boring. Then again, the C3 espresso is very chocolatey, multifaceted and tangy.

This all comes down to Jura’s legendary P.E.P. brewing technology. Here, the Swiss came up with a magical way to get around the inherent pressure and grinder limitations of super automatic machines. And it’s been a complete triumph, putting Jura coffee machines light years ahead the competition.

How to Use the Jura C3

Trust me when I tell you that using the Jura C3 will be a piece of cake. While the user interface is overly simplistic for my taste, it’s easy to use. So, I doubt you’ll need to open the user manual when you’re first making coffee. Once you’ve unboxed the coffee machine, make sure to rinse removable parts, paying special attention to the water tank.

Once that’s done, you’ll need to install the CLEARYL Smart+ water filter. Jura claims that this filter will eliminate the need for descaling, but I’m skeptical. Either way, it’ll certainly cut down on the frequency of having to descale the machine.

Now it’s time to make espresso or coffee. Them’s your choices. Add fresh water to the tank and pour your best espresso beans into the bean hopper. My usual serving size recommendations apply to espresso and coffee: Set the espresso to 1.4 ounces (40 milliliters) and stick to 4 ounces (120 milliliters) for coffee. You can adjust the water volume using the arrow keys.

Similar to the grinder settings, Jura describes the coffee strength here not with numbers or bean symbols, but with words. The third setting I recommend is labeled “Intense” on the display. This is also a helpful guide for those new to fully automatic machines.

If you want to start a double brew, you need to press the corresponding button twice in quick succession. However, this can go wrong if you press the button too enthusiastically or your finger slips.

How Does Espresso From the Jura C3 Taste?

Given the absence of a milk system, the Jura C3 naturally has to deliver top-notch coffee and espresso. Otherwise, it would be a total letdown. But as expected, the Swiss prove – at least when it comes to specialty coffees – why they’re so popular in the first place.

The espresso steams at a solid 149 degrees Fahrenheit (65 degrees Celsius) in the cup and, especially when compared to something like the Tchibo, demonstrates the true strength of Jura fully automatic coffee machines: 

In terms of taste, it’s obvious that the Swiss machines extract more from your beans; the drink is overall richer, more full-bodied and objectively tastier. Plus, it’s nearly seven degrees hotter.

Similar results apply to coffee. The crema is darker, the coffee richer and the mouthfeel more complex than with Tchibo. Only when it comes to temperature do the two brands match: Jura reaches 181 degrees Fahrenheit (83 degrees Celsius), Tchibo one degree less.

We could now debate whether this superior coffee experience justifies the premium price tag after all. I mean, that’s all coffee purists want.

However, I’m of the opinion that you’re better off with something like the DeLonghi Magnifica Evo. For way less money, it offers a full-fledged milk system, a grinder of equally high quality and excellent espresso – all without any gimmicks.

Best Coffee for the Jura C3

Coffeeness Medium Roast Espresso

Well-balanced with chocolate & hazelnut notes

Freshly roasted in Brooklyn

Very low acidity

To the Coffeeness Shop

After 10 years reviewing super automatics and espresso machines, and over 15 years reviewing coffee beans, we’re proud to offer our own Coffeeness Espresso Blend. Comprising ethically farmed and sourced coffee beans, our Espresso Blend is expertly roasted in small batches to guarantee freshness.

This premium blend of direct trade Brazilian coffee beans produces rich, bold and complex espresso that’s ideal straight or paired with milk. Featuring notes of chocolate and hazelnut, our Espresso Blend is particularly low in acidity, making it easy on the stomach.

Here’s how we recommend setting up your Jura C3 for the perfect cup of coffee:

Jura C3 Cleaning & Descaling: Some Coffee Machines Are More Complicated

Fortunately, there really isn’t much to say about cleaning the Jura C3. Of course, the full-size brewing unit can’t be removed; you clean it using the rinse cycles and, every now and then, with Jura Cleaning Tablets. Elsewhere, you should empty and rinse the water tank, drip tray and used coffee grounds container daily.

By the way, the ribbed design on the water tank isn’t just for looks – the indentations make it easier to grip the thing securely. When design and function go hand in hand, I’m always a fan.

As soon as the Jura C3 prompts you to run its descaling program, you should take care of it, even if you’re using a water filter.

For this, I’d recommend digging out the user manual, since the minimalist display is hardly any help when following the steps. You can use Jura Descaling Tablets or another more reasonably priced product.

Jura C3 vs ENA 4

Currently available for $1,199.00, the Jura ENA 4 is another of Jura’s compact fully automatic espresso machines.

Ordinarily, I’d assume that the C3 is meant to replace the ENA 4. However, the latter machine was recently given a grinder upgrade, so it seems like it’s here to stay for a while. Now equipped with the P.A.G. grinder, the ENA 4 has a slightly more modern-looking user interface than the Jura C3. Overall, though, the ENA 4 isn’t as sleek as the C3.

Both machines make only coffee and espresso, and both offer three strength adjustment levels. However, I know for sure that you can’t adjust the drink temperature on the ENA 4’s user interface. Then again, during my testing the espresso was always delivered at the ideal temperature for sipping.

The Jura ENA 4 features an external cylindrical water tank, which Jura made a big deal out of when the machine was released. But to be honest, I find it kind of annoying. As with the C3, you’re going to spend a lot of money on the ENA 4, and you’ll never have milk foaming capabilities. If you’re fine with that, the ENA 4 could be the machine for you. 

See Also: Jura ENA 4 Review

Jura C3 vs ENA 4 Comparison Chart

Verdict: Jura C3 Review

Jura C3

A rather limited machine that makes superb espresso

Compact footprint

Premium feel

Makes excellent coffee and espresso

Easy to use

Expensive for what you get

No milk system

CHECK PRICE

All specifications

Jura C3
Manufacturer	Jura
Model number	15780
Product category	Super automatic espresso machine
Removable brew group
Housing material	Plastic
Color options	Piano Black, Piano White
Milk frother	None
User interface	Text display with buttons
App
User profiles	Memo function only
Removable water reservoir
Water reservoir capacity	54.1 fl oz / 1.6 l
Number of boilers	1
Pump pressure	15 bar
Maximum cup height	4.3 in / 10.9 cm
Minimum cup height	3.1 in / 7.9 cm
Grinder	Stainless steel conical burr grinder
Grind adjustment levels	7
Bean hopper capacity	6.8 oz / 200.0 g
Pre-ground coffee bypass
Grounds discard container capacity	16
Specialty drinks	4
Pre-infusion
Adjustable coffee temperature
Adjustable milk foam temperature
Adjustable milk temperature
2-cup function	Yes (non-milk drinks only)
Pot function
Hot water function
Hot milk function
Milk foam only option
Water filter
Power consumption	1450 W
Weight	19.4 lb / 8.8 kg
Dimensions	12.8 x 10.2 x 17.2 in 32.5 x 25.9 x 43.7 cm
Warranty	2 years
Notes	Included Accessories: User manual, coffee scoop, water filter, cleaning products
Current price on Amazon	$1,199.00
All specifications

I don’t need to think long and hard about it; my verdict should be clear: I’m not going to shell out $1,199.00 for a fully automatic machine that can only make black coffee drinks. Not even if the espresso is as top-notch as it gets.

If Jura only charged $800.00 or at least offered cold brew or more modern technology overall, I’d be an instant fan of the Jura C3. This just confirms once again that Jura lacks a sense of reality in many ways.

If you really want the best fully automatic espresso machine without a milk system, the Terra Kaffe Demi is a much better choice. That said, I’m not a fan of pure coffee machines. After all, sooner or later you’ll find yourself in a situation where someone wants a cappuccino or something similar.

If you absolutely must own a Jura coffee machine, invest a little more and go for the all-in-one expert, the Jura E8. Its price is far more justified – especially if you ignore the updated version and go hunting for the previous generation model.

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