Cold brew coffee and iced coffee are two different types of beverages, each with its own distinct characteristics. Cold brew coffee is a coffee concentrate that is steeped in cold or room-temperature water for an extended period of time, typically 12-24 hours. The resulting drink is smooth, less acidic, and has a rich flavor. Iced coffee is made by brewing a hot cup of coffee and then pouring it over ice. The resulting drink is usually much more acidic than cold brew, and has a sharper taste. The cold brew process also extracts more caffeine from the beans than regular brewing methods, resulting in a stronger drink.
The other notable difference between cold brew and iced coffee is that cold brew is typically more expensive. This is because of the amount of time and labor that goes into the cold brew process. Iced coffee can be made quickly and cheaply, making it the more cost-effective option.