10 Best Single-Serve Coffee Makers, Tested and Reviewed

Get a taste of being a coffee expert at home using the espresso machine in your home.

The joy of Brewing your own coffee is unmatched and single-serve coffee makers help you in this endeavour every time you want. Whether you’re one to enjoy a good old-fashioned cup of drip coffee or a more modern cappuccino on the go, single cup coffee machines are very capable of making a tasty brew, and they may be as easy as the press of a button.

The excellent single-serve coffee makers  would be like your only best friend, and they are exactly what you have been looking for to have your perfect cup of coffee in a fast and convenient way without the side effects of the traditional ways to make a coffee. During all this experience we must note the fact that we offer more than 100 coffee cups from simple to sophisticated brewing techniques.

Whether it was drip coffee makers, French presses, portable brewers, Nespresso machines, cold brew methods, or espresso makers, our goal remained constant: to find the signature coffee with the best taste, which is home-brewed.

In particular, we devoted our attention almost to 30 best selling-spaced and well-regarded single-cup coffee makers from known and trusted brands, including Keurig, Cuisinart and Nespresso among others. Coffee drinkers can no longer afford to overlook the single-serve coffee maker in today’s fast-paced world. The single-serve coffee maker is not a desirable after all, but it is indeed a necessity.

Currently, these machines not only provide you with the convenience and variety, but essentially can make any sort of coffee your heart desires with the push of a button. Kick start your day with the help of a convenient and eco-friendly single-serve coffee maker, and transport yourself back to a vibrant cafe every time you take a sip. You have now been given intimate knowledge of which single cup coffee maker is the best in the market, by our experienced findings; therefore, you won’t miss on a perfect brew.

1

Best Overall Single-Serve Coffee Maker

Keurig K-Elite Single-Serve Coffee Maker

The Keurig brand podded coffee maker is our number one pick that brewed the best tasting coffee that consistently managed to be flavorful, full-bodied and smooth. Its intuitive control panel features simple buttons you can use to select from five drink sizes (4 oz to 12 oz each) and in regular, strong and iced brewing modes. But take note: The option for the serving size on the control panel is not self-evident as they do not mention the ounces used. Because I just look through the pictures of tea cups that keep changing their positions.

Our tester colleagues highlighted that the user manual was very clear and simple aiding in fast and easy identification of the brewing procedures. Amongst the all K-Cup coffee makers we reviewed, Keurig K-Elite offered one of the largest water reservoirs featuring 75 ounces (about 9 cups of coffee) which translates to fewer refilling. If you’re more of an enthusiast who enjoys grinding your own ground-coffee beans, the reusable filter attachment is another option for you, which is also available for purchasing separately.

Although the testers liked the fact that it achieved the desired temperature in less than 90 seconds, the caffeine machine had one more feature, the auto-on time, the design was 100% perfect.

2

Best Value Single-Serve Coffee Maker

BLACK+DECKER Single Serve Coffee Maker

You’ll probably face a shortage of countertop space and a simple morning coffee routine, if you buy the BLACK+DECKER Single-Serve Coffee Maker which is a compact brewer having a budget price. This machine is very simple to use because it has only one start button and automatically turns itself off at the end of the cycle. We used the 16-ounce travel mug as the measurement cup to fill the water reservoir. The machine will brew all the water you add. So make sure you measure your coffee accurately.

During the test, we observed that the filter, which is reusable, is pretty easy to get off and clean. Thus, non-electric parts are all top-rack dishwasher safe making this device even more functional. But beware if you decide not to use a travel mug: It was a common issue when drinking coffee from a regular mug for them to be splashed while brewing.

3

Best Single-Serve Coffee Maker With Grinder

Cuisinart Grind and Brew Single-Serve Coffee Maker

This compact Cuisinart coffee maker is different from other single-serve coffee makers which only provide two options: pods or pre-ground coffee beans. It is the only machine with a built-in grinder that dispenses coffee grounds into a reusable pod allowing you to have freshly ground cups of coffee. The trade-off is that it adds an extra step in the process: grind the beans, put the pod inside, then brew the coffee. The last step was the most difficult part we had to go through, but this cup of coffee with an excellent taste and medium-body was surely worth it.

If you are in a hurry or want to brew decaf, the reusable filter pod fits pre-ground coffee or any single-serving pods (such as Keurig K-cups). We noticed that this equipment came with a manual, but we did not need it because it was easy to understand just by using the machine. The capsule is super convenient to clean and the water container is detachable, so you can just fill it at your sink.

4

Best Large-Capacity Single-Serve Coffee Maker

Cuisinart Premium Single-Serve Coffee Machine

The Cuisinart Premium Single-Serve coffee maker does away with the need to stop and refill the water very frequently with the help of its 72 ounces removable water reservoir. Are included a reusable filter (which in turn is emplaced in the compartment which is situated on the right side of the machine). A group of people we received feedback from found that they could easily access and use the app. In our test we realized that it can just heat up the required amount in a matter of 90 seconds. It helped me time and again to get a hot cup of coffee at 172º F.

Select from five intimate yet generous drink sizes via a smart and low-energy LED-lit control panel. We found the arrow buttons could be kind of tricky to start with, but gradually started to feel natural. This rinsing and washing program removes the coffee residue after each brew, and our panellists found that it always brewed coffee that was delicious and full-bodied.

5

Best Single-Serve Coffee And Espresso Maker

Breville Nespresso Vertuo Coffee and Espresso Machine

We have collected has shown that the Nespresso Vertuo Coffee and Espresso Machine was among the best pod-operating espresso machines. It does not only give you a wonderful cup of coffee with a foamed crema that is both stable in temperature and volume per cup. Moreover, we make other quality single-serve coffee such as double espresso, a double serving of coffee and a regular size coffee with our specialty capsule of unmatched quality for a 14-ounce portion. The coffee tasting committee highly appreciated the coffee with smooth and foamy cream that made the coffee velvety smooth, even a tester who prefers milk in her coffee liked just the taste of coffee.

The coffee tasting committee highly appreciated the coffee with smooth and foamy cream that made the coffee velvety smooth; even a tester who prefers milk in her coffee liked just the taste of coffee.

The coffee machine offers a beautiful and smart design, with the low stand, which testers liked it so much and found it very easy to use. Espresso is just a touch away with an integrated reader that reads the bar code on the capsule and brews it accordingly. While the Nespresso VertuoPlus is brand limited to the large Nespresso capsules, it is also one of the most popular for the variety it offers, which is slightly over 30 flavors.

6

Best Single Serve Coffee Maker For Cappuccinos

Lavazza Expert Coffee Classy Plus Single Serve All-In-One

The outstanding feature that this model has that has made a great impression to us from our testing is that it’s an all-in-one machine. The user puts in a coffee pod to make a specific type of drink, then it froths the foam cappuccino and latte automatically and adds the pod for a drink. No need to go through several steps or change the tool designed to stick to another surface.

It can even be judged to be nut milk and provides three types of foam, so it is up to you what you would want and then more or less. The barista can provide a cappuccino, an Americano, an espresso lungo, or a regular cup of brewed coffee.

Our team of testers were “impressed beyond belief” by the machine due to the different functionality and usage. In addition, they declared that “brewing was straightforward, convenient and making the best cup coffee what the machine does”. Or, you may choose between Lavazza Blue Blue or Lavazza Expert capsules or use the filter provided with the machine and fill it with your favourite roasted coffee.

You can pre-choose the beverage you want to drink during the 40 seconds of bootup with just a click of the button. This not only trumps the other pick, but it is easy to store and won’t take up much of your counter space due to its small size. Of course,operate the machine properly and ensure that you turn it off after you are done with it,it doesn’t shut off automatically on its own.

7

Best Single-Serve Coffee Maker to use without Pods

Ninja Pods & Grounds Specialty Single-Serve Coffee Maker

Well-matched with both single-serve pods and ground coffee, this Ninja creates many lattes, macchiato, cappuccino, coffee drinks and more at home. It provides four different types of pods brew size, and six different types of coffee grounds brew size. A large number of variables are a good option if you like changes daily. Choose your coffee choice — classic, rich, over ice or specialty — and with the built-in frothing wand, transform your brew into a cappuccino or latte. Our tests revealed that it froths both hot and cold milk well, but you must heat the milk yourself separately; the wand doesn’t steam the milk.

Accessory storage on-board is another thing that we thought is super cool as you will never again have to rummage to find your missing measuring scoop. Next, the frothing wand neatly folds into the machine and is able to fit sidely conveniently into even the smallest of cupboards until the next time you use it.

8

Best Combo Machine Single Serve Coffee Maker

Ninja DualBrew Pro Single-Serve Coffee Maker

For all the flexibilities you need, the Ninja DualBrew Pro has got you covered: it functions as either a single-serve coffee maker or a larger-capacity carafe type with many customizing options in between. There are four brew styles: traditional, loaded, chilled, for a perfect companion with our fresh coffee beans and pods. A hot water system is available that you can use to make your instant soups, oatmeal, and others. Also, there is a foldaway milk frother to make lattes and cafe au lait drinks.

In our collection of the most excellent drip coffee makers, we liked the fact that the Ninja Coacy coffee maker has a program called iced coffee. It is reinforced with the special saturation control, so you don’t get your coffee diluted as beautiful and cold as if you brewed over ice. We are also obsessed with the espresso machine’s implemented frother, thus making some barista-level creations like cappuccino and iced coffee topped with cold foam.

9

Best Smart Single-Serve Coffee Maker

Keurig K-Supreme Plus Smart Coffee Maker

For those who just want an easy-to-use smart coffee maker, Keurig machine is the perfect solution. The latest addition to our range of technological features is the freshly introduced BrewID. This Keurig machine’s unique feature instantly identifies the coffee brand and roast, and optimizes the brew settings based on the recommendations of coffee professionals that crafted it. Nevertheless, you can customize the strength, temperature and size depending on your wishes.

Our tasters and professionals highly appreciated the taste of coffee and the ability to change the temperature and the strength of the brew even more. We learnt both the control panel and the application to be user friendly and easy even for the neophyte of smart home devices. Via the app, you can get the machine to start, and set up customization and schedule so that your coffee will be ready before you arrive. On the other side, pre-authorized coffee scheduling must be confirmed in the app before it starts, and only then can you wake up to the smell of fresh coffee.

10

Best Single-Serve Coffee Maker with thermal Carafe

Keurig K-Duo Plus Single Serve & Carafe Coffee Maker

The K-Duo Plus is dual compatible for single serves with K-Cups and reusable filters for fresh ground coffee that brews an entire pot. During our testing, it turned out to always brew coffee at the temperature and amount range that we desired, let alone the cup had a pleasant flavor and body. What makes us glad about the K-Duo Plus is the brew option variety, it comes with a thermal carafe that holds enough coffee for up to 12 cups and it does not use a warming plate. It can add an 8 inch tall travel cup to its holder – the biggest gap we found in our testing.

One of our favorite functions is the 60-ounce rotating removable water reservoir; you can position it to the left, right, or back according to counter space. It should be noted that this coffee machine has a scheduling function, which allows you to set up coffee brewing 24 hours in advance; it also features a mid-brew pausing button, meaning that you can pour from the carafe while the coffee is still brewing.

What to look for when buying a single-serve coffee maker?

Single-use coffee pods vs. reusable filters: Single-serve coffee machines are utilized predominantly in the use of retail coffee pods which happen to be consequently the practices of the popular K-cup pod brand which is by Keurig. In pods, the coffee is pre-measured for a specific quantity, so it is sold in small plastic or aluminium cups. In the pod there is a filter already built. K-Cups and capsules are great in terms of convenience but come with a high price tag compared to the home use of ground coffee. 

And while certain capsules like K-Cups can be recycled, first you need to take out the grounds and foil, and then you must verify with your local recycling facility that your plastic type is compostable. Soft pods are a popular alternative: Coffee depicts ground coffee, which is packaged in a round paper filter that resembles the one used for making tea, and which is plastic-free. A single-serve coffee brewer without the use of pods is an option if you prefer to not use pods and you can fill one up with your own ground coffee by using the reusable filter. 

Reusable filters which can help reduce the waste and plastic pollution (since they can be washed after each use)are definitely more eco-friendly. We found all these reusable filters to be simple to unlace from the coffee maker and way of doing them by putting them in a dishwashing machine. The recommended way of doing this is to use 2 tablespoons of ground coffee in a reusable filter for the size of the cup generating 6 ounces of coffee.

Water reservoir: Realize how often you do a mug of coffee a day. If you prepare 2-3 servings per day, a large reservoir would be perfect for you saving you time you spend on refilling. Some water bottles have handles giving them an easy carry characteristic. You only have to remove the cylinder and place it in the sink for a while to clean it. Even permanently hooked faucets are included, so the best solution is a spouted pitcher for refilling. Other than this ones there exist some that don’t come with any a reservoir and call for you to do the measurements and add water each time you need coffee.

Brewing options: While some of the single-serve coffee makers can only brew a single cup (and there are models that can offer you from one espresso to 16-ounce brew), some can get up to a travel mug size. The coffee selection might be basic (as in the choice of regular or strong brewed coffee), fancy (like cold or even cappuccino and lattes in the model of coffee machines which can froth milk up).

Speed: One of the perks of a single-serve coffee brewer is its ability to brew in less time. Some models boast a robust heating component that can warm up the water while brewing the coffee within a minute or less.Some of them have you placing the ground coffee in the bottom filter, thus requiring you to pour hot water. In our experiments we discovered that on average it took approximately 2 minutes to make an 8-ounce coffee cup.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a Single-cup coffee makers cost-effective and convenient?

Most of these machines are easy to clean and maintain however you should apart from ease of cleaning also look for removable parts and dishwasher-safe components to make the whole cleaning process more comfortable.

Which single-serve coffee is most suitable?

It just goes to show that taste and preferences are subjective. Depending on the brand brew systems (capsule brewing systems or filter brewers), the brew options may be different. For those who cannot make up their mind whether to buy this or that, I suggest choosing a machine the cup inserts for which are accepted by multiple brands.

What is that Nespresso compared to a Keurig?

Keurig machines are designed to serve coffee and tea, if not hot chocolate, using compatibility with Keurig’s K-cup pods. Besides the “espresso” K-cups, there are the products that are not strong enough and do not have the same depth or the signature layer as a shot of espresso.

Nespresso machines can be used to make either espresso or coffee and use the Nespresso capsules to do this, depending on the model. The espresso pods produce the shots which are just as bold that you will get from the old style pull—with nice texture on the crema—that you can later use to make cappuccinos, lattes, and other espresso based drinks.