DeLonghi PrimaDonna Soul vs Jura J8

Q: Is the PrimaDonna Soul better than the J8?

It depends on your priorities. The DeLonghi PrimaDonna Soul excels for users who want Bean Adapt Technology that dials in your grind automatically, while the Jura J8 is the better choice if you prioritize the Sweet Foam function to infuse milk foam with any syrup flavor.

Q: How do the grinders compare?

The PrimaDonna Soul uses a Steel Flat (Electronic), whereas the J8 features a Steel Conical (P.A.G.2+). While both are high-quality internal systems, they are sealed components. To prevent clogging and avoid expensive repairs, we strongly recommend using non-oily, medium-roast beans in both machines.

Q: Which machine is easier to clean?

The PrimaDonna Soul uses a Removable brew group, while the J8 uses a Fixed system. Generally, removable groups (like DeLonghi) allow for manual rinsing under a tap, while fixed groups (like Jura) rely on automated tablet cleaning cycles.

Buy the PrimaDonna Soul if you:

Want Bean Adapt Technology that dials in your grind automatically.
Want a removable brew group for thorough manual cleaning.
Demand the absolute best build quality and latest tech.

Buy the J8 if you:

Want the Sweet Foam function for flavored lattes.
Need the Coffee Eye to assist with cup placement.
Prefer a fixed brew group that cleans itself automatically.

Expert Verdict

"Choose the J8 for the Sweet Foam function for flavored lattes. Pick the PrimaDonna Soul if you value Bean Adapt Technology that dials in your grind automatically."

Tale of the Tape

Feature	PrimaDonna Soul	J8
Why Buy This?	Bean Adapt Technology that dials in your grind automatically	the Sweet Foam function to infuse milk foam with any syrup flavor
Interface	4.3" Touchscreen	4.3" Touchscreen
Milk System	Auto Carafe	Auto Tube (HP3)
Drink Variety	21 Drinks	31 Drinks
User Profiles	5	0
Grinder	Steel Flat (Electronic)	Steel Conical (P.A.G.2+)
Water Tank	74 oz	64 oz
Bean Hopper	17.6 oz	10 oz
Brew Group	Removable	Fixed
Dimensions	10.3x19x15.4	12.5x17.6x13.7
Connectivity	Yes	Yes (WiFi)
Special Feature	Bean Adapt Tech	Sweet Foam

Critical Maintenance Warning

Don't Ruin Your New Investment

Regardless of which machine you choose, both rely on internal grinders that are sensitive to oily beans. To keep your DeLonghi or Jura out of the repair shop, stick to these non-oily selections.

A Canadian legend. Since it is a Medium roast, it is much safer for your machine than their other dark roasts (which are too oily).

Kicking Horse Cliff Hanger

Silky, complex, and wild. Fairtrade and Organic.

Check Price (CA)

The Vancouver classic. If you care about Organic/Fairtrade but refuse to sacrifice crema, this is the one. It stands up beautifully to milk without being bitter.

Ethical Bean Sweet Espresso

100% Arabica, Fairtrade and Organic. A velvet mouthfeel with notes of toffee and baker's chocolate.

Check Price (CA)Check Price (US)

Finally, a decaf that produces actual crema. I serve this to guests and they never know it's decaf. Safe for your grinder too.

Lavazza Dek (Decaf)

Medium roast decaffeinated via natural water process.

Check Price (CA)Check Price (US)

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the PrimaDonna Soul better than the J8? ▼

It depends on your priorities. The DeLonghi PrimaDonna Soul excels for users who want Bean Adapt Technology that dials in your grind automatically, while the Jura J8 is the better choice if you prioritize the Sweet Foam function to infuse milk foam with any syrup flavor.

How do the grinders compare? ▼

The PrimaDonna Soul uses a Steel Flat (Electronic), whereas the J8 features a Steel Conical (P.A.G.2+). While both are high-quality internal systems, they are sealed components. To prevent clogging and avoid expensive repairs, we strongly recommend using non-oily, medium-roast beans in both machines.

Which machine is easier to clean? ▼

The PrimaDonna Soul uses a Removable brew group, while the J8 uses a Fixed system. Generally, removable groups (like DeLonghi) allow for manual rinsing under a tap, while fixed groups (like Jura) rely on automated tablet cleaning cycles.