Jura J8 vs DeLonghi PrimaDonna Soul

Q: Is the J8 better than the PrimaDonna Soul?

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

Q: How do the grinders compare?

The J8 uses a Steel Conical (P.A.G.2+), whereas the PrimaDonna Soul features a Steel Flat (Electronic). 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 J8 uses a Fixed brew group, while the PrimaDonna Soul uses a Removable 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 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.

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.

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

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 Jura or DeLonghi out of the repair shop, stick to these non-oily selections.

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.

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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.

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This is my #1 recommendation if you make milk drinks. The slightly darker roast punches through the milk better than the Super Crema.

Lavazza Gran Crema

South American Arabicas blended with South East Asian Robustas. Rich and intense with notes of dark chocolate and spices.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is the J8 better than the PrimaDonna Soul? ▼

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

How do the grinders compare? ▼

The J8 uses a Steel Conical (P.A.G.2+), whereas the PrimaDonna Soul features a Steel Flat (Electronic). 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 J8 uses a Fixed brew group, while the PrimaDonna Soul uses a Removable system. Generally, removable groups (like DeLonghi) allow for manual rinsing under a tap, while fixed groups (like Jura) rely on automated tablet cleaning cycles.