Coffee is a daily ritual for many of us, making a reliable coffee maker essential kitchen equipment. Single serve coffee makers have grown in popularity because they brew just one cup at a time. These convenient machines save time, reduce waste, and ensure each cup is fresh.
Single serve coffee makers come in various styles, from pod-based systems to filter options that work with your favorite ground coffee. They’re perfect for households where people drink coffee at different times or prefer different flavors. Many models brew coffee in under a minute, making them ideal for busy mornings.
When choosing a single serve coffee maker, pay attention to brewing capacity, compatibility with coffee pods or grounds, and size. Some machines take up significant counter space, while others are compact enough for small kitchens or travel. Water reservoir size is also important—larger tanks mean fewer refills but take up more space. We tested fifteen single serve coffee makers to find ones that deliver excellent coffee quickly and consistently.
| Feature | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Brewing capacity | Determines cup size options (6-12 oz typically) |
| Compatibility | Works with pods, grounds, or both |
| Water reservoir | Larger means fewer refills needed |
| Size | Must fit your available counter space |
| Brew time | Ranges from 30 seconds to 3 minutes |
Single serve coffee makers use either coffee pods or ground coffee. Pod systems like Keurig or Nespresso are extremely convenient but create more waste and limit coffee options. Machines that use ground coffee offer more flexibility in coffee selection and are more environmentally friendly, though they require a bit more cleanup.
Most single serve machines have programmable settings for cup size and strength. More advanced models include features like temperature control, milk frothing capabilities, and programmable start times. These extras add convenience but also increase the price.
Cleaning requirements vary between models. Pod machines need regular descaling to remove mineral buildup, while ground coffee systems require more frequent cleaning of filters and brewing chambers. Some models have dishwasher-safe parts, making maintenance easier.
Water quality affects coffee taste significantly. Some single serve machines include built-in water filters, which is helpful if you have hard water. These filters need replacement every few months, adding to maintenance costs.
Best Single Serve Coffee Makers
We’ve found the top single serve coffee makers that make brewing your morning cup simple and quick. These machines let you enjoy fresh coffee without making a full pot, saving time and reducing waste. Our picks include different price points and features to match your needs.
Keurig K-Mini Coffee Maker
The Keurig K-Mini is a space-saving single-serve coffee maker that delivers quick, quality coffee with minimal fuss, making it perfect for small kitchens or offices.
Pros
- Incredibly compact design at less than 5 inches wide
- Simple one-button operation with quick brewing
- Versatile 6-12oz cup size options
Cons
- Single cup reservoir needs refilling each time
- Limited to K-Cup pods unless you buy the separate reusable filter
- No water temperature control options
I recently tried this little Keurig, and I was surprised by how little counter space it actually needs. The sleek black matte finish looks modern and fits nicely in my small kitchen corner. Its compact size doesn’t mean it skimps on performance though – my coffee was ready in just a few minutes.
The simplicity of this machine stands out immediately. You just add fresh water to the reservoir (which holds exactly one cup), pop in your K-Cup pod, and press brew. Within minutes, I had a steaming cup of coffee. The ability to choose between 6-12oz serving sizes is handy when I want a stronger brew or a larger cup.
We found the cord storage feature particularly useful. The cord tucks away neatly, keeping countertops tidy. The auto-off feature that kicks in after 90 seconds saves energy and gives peace of mind. I also appreciated the removable drip tray that accommodates travel mugs up to 7 inches tall – perfect for my morning commute.
This machine works with hundreds of K-Cup varieties, from coffee to tea to hot chocolate. While it doesn’t come with the reusable filter for ground coffee, that accessory can be purchased separately. The quick heat-up time means I’m not waiting long for that first cup of the day.
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Size | 4.5″D x 11.3″W x 12.1″H |
| Weight | 4.6 pounds |
| Brew Sizes | 6-12 oz |
| Colors Available | Multiple matte finishes |
| Auto-Off | 90 seconds after brewing |
| Travel Mug Friendly | Up to 7 inches tall |
Ninja Single-Serve Coffee Maker
The Ninja PB051 delivers incredible versatility in a compact design, making it perfect for coffee lovers who want both pod convenience and ground coffee flavor options.
Pros
- Works with both coffee pods and grounds in one compact machine
- Built-in milk frother for making specialty drinks at home
- Accommodates travel mugs up to 24 oz
Cons
- Water reservoir needs frequent refilling for larger drinks
- Slightly higher price point than basic single-serve machines
- Frother doesn’t heat milk, only froths it
I recently tried the Ninja PB051 single-serve coffee maker, and it’s quickly become my morning go-to. What sets this machine apart is its flexibility – you can use K-Cup pods when you’re in a hurry or your favorite ground coffee when you want that perfect flavor. The machine takes up minimal counter space yet offers features usually found in much larger machines.
The built-in frother folds away neatly when not in use, which is super convenient. I’ve made some impressive lattes with it, though remember it only froths milk and doesn’t heat it. The frother works equally well with dairy or plant-based milks, creating that cafe-quality foam that makes coffee drinks special.
One feature we really appreciate is the size versatility. You can brew anything from a small 6-ounce cup to a large 24-ounce travel mug. The thermal extraction technology produces noticeably better flavor than our old single-serve machine, with none of that watered-down taste. For iced coffee lovers, the “Over Ice” setting brews a stronger concentrate that doesn’t taste diluted when the ice melts.
| Brew Size Options | Pod Brewing | Ground Coffee Brewing |
|---|---|---|
| Small Cup | 6-12 oz | 6-12 oz |
| Large Cup | Not available | 14 oz |
| Travel Mug | Not available | 18-24 oz |
Cleaning is straightforward with the removable parts. The storage drawer for the brew basket is a thoughtful touch that keeps everything tidy. While the 56-ounce water reservoir isn’t the largest we’ve seen, it’s removable for easy filling and holds enough for several cups before needing a refill.
Keurig K-Express Coffee Maker
The Keurig K-Express delivers quick, tasty coffee at an affordable price point, making it a smart choice for anyone seeking convenience without breaking the bank.
Pros
- Easy setup with quick brewing time
- Compact design fits well in small spaces
- Strong brew button adds extra flavor kick
Cons
- Water tank can be tricky to insert without spilling
- Water filter sold separately
- Limited to 4 cups before refilling
We tried the Keurig K-Express recently and were impressed by how simple it was to use. After unboxing, we had it running in minutes with no complicated setup. The sleek black design looks modern on our counter without taking up too much space. This machine is perfect for kitchens where counter space is at a premium.
The coffee quality surprised us for such a compact machine. We tested all three cup sizes (8, 10, and 12 oz), and each delivered a hot, fresh-tasting brew. The strong button makes a noticeable difference, giving our morning coffee that extra kick we sometimes need. When brewing back-to-back cups for guests, we didn’t have to wait for the machine to reheat – a feature we really appreciate.
The 42-ounce water tank holds enough for about 4 cups before needing a refill, which works well for small households or office spaces. We found the tank removal and replacement mostly smooth, though it took a bit of practice to avoid minor spills. For those who prefer ground coffee, the machine works with the My K-Cup reusable filter (bought separately). Overall, this Keurig offers great value with its simple operation, quick brewing, and compact footprint.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Brew Sizes | 8, 10, and 12 oz |
| Water Reservoir | 42 oz (makes about 4 cups) |
| Special Features | Strong brew button, auto-off after 5 minutes |
| Travel Mug | Accommodates mugs up to 7.4″ tall |
| Dimensions | 15″D x 7″W x 15″H |
Ninja Single-Serve Coffee Maker
The Ninja PB041ST coffee maker offers amazing versatility for both pod and ground coffee lovers with impressive brew options that make it worth adding to your kitchen.
Pros
- Works with both coffee pods and grounds
- Multiple brew sizes from small cups to travel mugs
- Three distinct brew styles including an iced coffee option
Cons
- Takes up more counter space than some competitors
- Slightly longer brew time for richer coffee
- More expensive than basic single-serve machines
We tested the Ninja PB041ST in our kitchen for several weeks and found it really stands out from other single-serve brewers. The machine feels sturdy with its stone finish that resists fingerprints. Its control panel is straightforward with clear buttons for selecting your brew size and style.
The flexibility of this machine impressed us. We could use our favorite K-Cup pods when we wanted convenience or switch to fresh grounds when we had more time. The permanent filter included with the machine saved us money on paper filters. Morning coffee tasted rich and full-bodied, especially when using the “Rich” setting.
One feature we particularly loved was the iced coffee function. It brewed a stronger concentrate that didn’t taste watered down when poured over ice. This saved us trips to coffee shops during hot weather. The large 56-ounce water reservoir meant less refilling, and we could easily remove it for cleaning or refilling at the sink.
The machine accommodates travel mugs up to 24 ounces, which was perfect for busy mornings. We noticed the coffee stayed hot throughout the entire cup thanks to its temperature control technology. The storage drawer for the brew basket is a clever space-saving design when you’re not using it.
| Brew Options | Pod Sizes | Ground Coffee Sizes |
|---|---|---|
| Classic | 6, 8, 10, 12 oz | 6, 8, 10, 12, 18, 24 oz |
| Rich | 6, 8, 10, 12 oz | 6, 8, 10, 12, 18, 24 oz |
| Over Ice | 6, 8, 10, 12 oz | 6, 8, 10, 12, 18, 24 oz |
Tastyle Portable Coffee Maker
This compact single-serve coffee maker offers impressive versatility for travelers and those with limited counter space.
Pros
- Works with both K-cups and ground coffee
- Truly portable with carry handle and compact size
- Simple one-button operation
Cons
- No drip tray to catch spills
- Coffee flavor not as strong as larger machines
- Water tank is small at 12 oz maximum
We recently tested the Tastyle portable coffee maker during a weekend camping trip, and it performed better than expected. The lightweight design made it easy to pack, and the handle was sturdy enough for carrying between our campsite and cabin. What surprised us most was how quickly it brewed – our morning cup was ready in about three minutes.
The ability to use both K-cups and ground coffee gives this machine an edge over similar portable models. When we tried the ground coffee option with the included reusable filter, we needed to use about 20% more coffee than we normally would to get a strong cup. The mesh filter did a good job keeping grounds out of our coffee.
Setting up the water level is simple with the clearly marked tank. We found the 10 oz setting produced the best balance of flavor and volume. One thing to watch for – after brewing, a few drops tend to leak out since there’s no drip tray. Keeping a small towel underneath solved this problem easily. The auto shut-off feature gives peace of mind when rushing out the door.
For small spaces like dorms, RVs, or office desks, this coffee maker fits perfectly where larger Keurigs can’t. We appreciate that it’s ETL certified and BPA-free. The descaling reminder is a thoughtful touch that should help extend the machine’s life.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Size | 8.1″D x 4.6″W x 9.8″H |
| Weight | 2.42 pounds |
| Brew Options | K-cups, Ground Coffee |
| Brew Sizes | 6, 8, 10, 12 oz |
| Power | 800 watts |
| Safety Features | Auto shut-off, BPA-free, Overheat protection |
Elite Gourmet Personal Coffee Maker
This compact single-serve coffee maker offers great value for anyone who needs a quick cup without taking up much counter space.
Pros
- Includes reusable filter and travel mug
- Very compact size perfect for small spaces
- Simple one-touch operation with auto shut-off
Cons
- Only makes one cup at a time
- Some users report button sticking issues
- May not last beyond a year of regular use
I tested the Elite Gourmet Personal Coffee Maker in mint green, and its compact design immediately caught my eye. The unit barely takes up any counter space in my kitchen, making it perfect for small apartments or office desks. The mint color adds a nice pop of color without being too flashy.
Setting up this coffee maker couldn’t be easier. I just added water to the reservoir, put my favorite coffee grounds in the included reusable filter, and pressed the single button. Within minutes, I had a hot cup of coffee ready to go. The included 14-oz travel mug fits perfectly under the dispenser and keeps coffee hot for about an hour with its stainless steel interior.
The auto shut-off feature gives peace of mind when rushing out the door. We found the coffee temperature to be just right – hot but not scalding. Clean-up is a breeze since both the filter and travel mug are dishwasher safe. For about the price of a few coffee shop visits, this little machine delivers consistent results without the need for expensive pods or paper filters.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 14 oz |
| Included Items | Travel mug, lid, reusable filter |
| Special Features | Auto shut-off, compact design |
| Best For | Dorms, small kitchens, RVs, offices |
| Power | 600 watts |
SHARDOR Single Serve Coffee Maker
The SHARDOR Single Serve Coffee Maker offers exceptional versatility with both K-cup and ground coffee options, making it an ideal choice for coffee lovers seeking convenience without sacrificing quality.
Pros
- Brews both hot and iced coffee with multiple size options
- Works with K-cups and ground coffee (no need for expensive pods)
- Large 50 oz water tank means less refilling
Cons
- Not UL certified according to some reviews
- Regular filter may allow some grounds to escape
- Some users report an odd taste initially
I recently tried this matte black coffee maker and was impressed by how quickly it heats up. Within seconds, I had a steaming cup of coffee ready to go. The machine fits perfectly in my small kitchen space without hogging the counter.
The ability to choose between K-cups and ground coffee is a game-changer. When I want something quick, I pop in a K-cup. For my weekend ritual, I use the reusable filter with my favorite grounds. The five brew sizes (6, 8, 10, 12, and 14 ounces) let me make anything from a strong morning shot to a travel mug for the road.
We found the bold brew setting particularly useful for those mornings when we needed an extra kick. The removable water tank makes refilling and cleaning super easy. No more awkward maneuvering to fill the reservoir. The machine accommodates travel mugs up to 6.3 inches tall, which is perfect for on-the-go coffee drinkers.
The iced coffee function works surprisingly well. Just add ice to your cup before brewing, and the machine makes a more concentrated coffee that doesn’t taste watered down once the ice melts. It’s a nice alternative to pricier coffee shop cold brews.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Brew Sizes | 6, 8, 10, 12, 14 oz |
| Compatible With | K-Cup pods, ground coffee |
| Water Tank | 50 oz removable |
| Special Features | Hot/iced brewing, bold brew setting |
| Dimensions | 10″D x 6.3″W x 11″H |
Maintenance is simple with this machine. The drip tray comes off for easy cleaning, and the clear water tank lets you see when it needs a rinse. After using it for a few weeks, we haven’t noticed any significant buildup or issues.
Cuisinart Premium Single-Serve Coffee Maker
The Cuisinart SS-10P1 delivers excellent versatility and convenience for any coffee lover who wants multiple brewing options without the hassle of frequent refills.
Pros
- Large 72-ounce water reservoir needs fewer refills
- Compatible with K-Cups and includes reusable filter for ground coffee
- Adjustable temperature and multiple cup size options (4-12 oz)
Cons
- Takes up significant counter space
- Slightly noisy during brewing
- More expensive than basic single-serve models
We recently tried the Cuisinart Premium Single-Serve Brewer and were impressed by its flexibility. The machine lets us choose from five different cup sizes ranging from 4 to 12 ounces. This feature is perfect when we want a strong shot of coffee in the morning or a larger cup to enjoy throughout the day.
The temperature control setting stands out as something many competitors don’t offer. We found it useful to adjust the heat level based on what we were brewing. For coffee, we preferred the hotter setting, while for tea and hot chocolate, a slightly lower temperature worked better. The hot water button is handy for making instant soups or oatmeal without running a brew cycle.
Cleaning is straightforward with the rinse function. After brewing several cups, we pressed the rinse button, and it quickly cleaned the internal brew chamber. The removable drip tray easily accommodates travel mugs, and the water reservoir detaches for simple refilling. The included reusable filter saves money and reduces waste compared to using K-Cups for every brew.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 72-ounce water reservoir |
| Cup Sizes | 5 options (4, 6, 8, 10, 12 oz) |
| Special Features | Hot water button, programmable, adjustable temperature |
| Compatibility | K-Cup pods and included reusable filter |
| Dimensions | 11.03″D x 9.33″W x 12.13″H |
The blue backlit LCD display makes programming the auto on/off function simple. We set it to turn on just before we wake up, and having hot coffee ready saves precious morning time. The charcoal water filter improves taste by removing impurities from tap water, which makes a noticeable difference in flavor.
Horavie Mini Coffee Maker
The Horavie Mini Single Serve Coffee Maker is worth buying for its versatility with both K-cups and ground coffee, making it perfect for small spaces and travelers who need quick, convenient brewing.
Pros
- Works with both K-cups and ground coffee
- Brews quickly in about 2 minutes
- Compact size fits easily in small spaces
Cons
- Small water tank needs frequent refilling
- Pod holder can be tricky to open initially
- May not last as long as premium brands
I just tried this Horavie coffee maker in my kitchen, and it’s surprisingly efficient for such a compact machine. The setup was simple – just plug it in, add water, and choose between the K-cup holder or ground coffee filter. The whole brewing process took just about 2 minutes from start to finish, which is faster than my old Keurig.
The size is perfect for my cramped apartment counter. It stands at just 9.45 inches tall and has a small footprint, yet still delivers a satisfying cup. I love that you can choose your cup size from 6 to 12 ounces. When I used a K-cup at the 8-ounce setting, the coffee had good strength without tasting watered down.
What really stands out is the flexibility. Yesterday I used K-cups, but this morning I switched to my favorite ground coffee with the included reusable filter. The water window lets me see exactly how much water I’m adding. The self-cleaning function is a nice touch – the machine alerts you when it needs descaling with a red light. This feature should help it last longer than other budget coffee makers I’ve used.
Tastyle Mini Coffee Maker
This compact coffee maker is a great choice for anyone who needs a versatile, space-saving option for brewing both hot and iced coffee at home or on the go.
Pros
- Brews both K-cups and ground coffee
- Compact size perfect for travel and small spaces
- Makes hot or iced coffee with various brew sizes
Cons
- Water tank needs refilling for each use
- Some users report leaking after brewing
- Makes high-pitched noise during operation
We recently tested the Tastyle Mini Coffee Maker, and it’s surprisingly capable for such a small machine. The compact design takes up minimal counter space, making it ideal for dorm rooms, RVs, or offices with limited area. It weighs just 2.59 pounds, so it’s easy to pack for trips.
One feature we really appreciate is the versatility to use both K-cups and ground coffee. This flexibility saved us money and reduced waste when we wanted to use our favorite grounds instead of pods. The brewing process is quick too – our coffee was ready in about 3 minutes, and it came out at the perfect temperature of 175°F.
The iced coffee function works well for hot summer days. We followed the included recipe book and got a refreshing cold brew without it tasting watered down. The ability to choose brew sizes from 6 to 14 ounces lets us make anything from a strong small cup to a larger travel mug serving.
Cleaning is simple with the descaling reminder and self-cleaning function. Most parts can go in the dishwasher, which saved us time. We also felt safe using it thanks to the automatic shutoff feature and dry boil protection. These safety features are especially important when using it in places like dorms or offices.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Brewing Options | K-cups and ground coffee |
| Brew Sizes | 6-14 oz adjustable |
| Special Features | Hot and iced brewing, self-cleaning |
| Best Uses | Travel, dorms, RVs, small kitchens |
| Safety Features | Auto shutoff, dry boil protection |
Buying Guide
Choosing a single serve coffee maker means thinking about what you need most. We want to help you find the right machine for your kitchen and lifestyle.
Size and Counter Space
Your coffee maker needs to fit in your kitchen. Measure the space before buying. Some machines are compact, while others take up more room.
| Machine Type | Typical Width | Typical Height |
|---|---|---|
| Compact | 5-7 inches | 10-12 inches |
| Standard | 7-10 inches | 12-15 inches |
| Premium | 10-13 inches | 13-17 inches |
Cup Size Options
Look for a machine that makes the size of coffee you like. Most offer 6-12 oz options. Some machines let you make travel mug sizes too.
Brewing Speed
If you’re always in a rush, brewing speed matters. Fast machines can make coffee in under a minute. Others take 2-3 minutes.
Water Reservoir
A larger water tank means fewer refills. This is handy if multiple people use the machine. Small tanks may need filling after each cup.
Pod Compatibility
Check what type of pods the machine uses. Some only work with specific brands, while others accept many types or even ground coffee.
Temperature Control
Better machines let you adjust brewing temperature. This helps get the best flavor from different coffee types.
Price Range
Set a budget before shopping. Basic models start around $50, while premium machines can cost $200 or more. Think about which features are worth paying extra for.
Energy Efficiency
Look for auto-off features to save electricity. Some machines use more power than others to maintain water temperature.
Frequently Asked Questions
Coffee lovers often have questions about single serve coffee makers. We’ve gathered the most common questions to help you find the perfect coffee maker for your needs.
What are the top-rated single serve coffee makers currently on the market?
Keurig K-Elite offers programmable settings and strong brew options, making it popular for pod users. The Nespresso Vertuo Next combines compact design with excellent coffee quality.
For budget options, the BLACK+DECKER Single Serve Coffee Maker provides reliable performance at a lower price point. The Cuisinart SS-10 Premium Single-Serve Coffeemaker is highly rated for its durability and versatility.
The Ninja Specialty Coffee Maker stands out for those wanting both single cups and small batches. It offers multiple brew styles in one machine.
How do I choose a single serve coffee maker that doesn’t require pods?
Look for coffee makers with reusable filter baskets that accept ground coffee directly. Models like the Hamilton Beach Scoop and Ninja Specialty Coffee Maker are designed specifically for grounds.
Consider brew size options to ensure the machine makes the amount of coffee you prefer. Speed matters too – some models brew a cup in under a minute while others take longer.
Water reservoir capacity is important if you don’t want to refill constantly. Larger tanks mean less frequent refilling.
| Pod-Free Model | Key Features | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Hamilton Beach Scoop | Built-in metal filter, Fast brewing | $40-60 |
| Ninja Specialty | Multiple brew sizes, Built-in frother | $150-200 |
| Cuisinart DCC-3000 | Dispenses one cup at a time from internal tank | $90-130 |
What features should I look for in a single serve coffee maker with a built-in grinder?
Grind settings are essential – look for adjustable options to match your preferred coffee type. Blade grinders are cheaper but burr grinders deliver more consistent results.
Bean hopper capacity determines how often you’ll need to refill. A larger hopper means less frequent refilling.
Check for programmable features like brew strength adjustment and timing options. Temperature control is crucial for optimal flavor extraction.
Cleaning ease matters since ground coffee can create more mess than pods. Models with removable parts make maintenance simpler.
How can I use my own ground coffee in a single serve coffee maker?
For Keurig machines, purchase a reusable K-Cup filter like the “My K-Cup” that fits your specific model. These allow you to fill with your own grounds instead of disposable pods.
Other brands like Nespresso offer similar reusable capsule options. These typically come with a scoop for measuring the right amount of coffee.
Follow the recommended grind size for your machine – usually medium to medium-fine works best. Don’t overfill the filter as this can cause overflow or weak coffee.
What are common issues faced with single serve coffee makers and how can they be resolved?
Clogging often happens from mineral buildup. Regular descaling with vinegar or commercial descaling solution every 3-6 months prevents this problem.
Weak coffee usually results from using too little coffee or the wrong grind size. Try adjusting your coffee amount or using a finer grind.
Leaking machines might have damaged seals or gaskets. Check these components and replace if necessary.
Inconsistent brew sizes can indicate pump problems. Running a descaling cycle often resolves this issue.
Where can I find a reliable single serve coffee maker at a competitive price?
Major retailers like Target, Walmart, and Best Buy regularly offer competitive prices and seasonal sales on coffee makers. Amazon frequently has special deals and discount codes.
Manufacturer websites sometimes offer exclusive models or bundles not available elsewhere. Sign up for their newsletters to get notified of sales.
Refurbished models from certified dealers can save 20-40% off retail prices. These typically come with warranties similar to new products.
Consider shopping during major sales events like Black Friday, Cyber Monday, or Amazon Prime Day for the best deals.
