If you love coffee, you should definitely invest in the best single cup coffee maker. This will provide you with a convenient way to satisfy your cravings for a caffeine fix. Whether it is for a cup of joe to welcome a new day or a hot drink to keep you alert in the office, this is going to be an excellent item to have. It will allow you to effortlessly prepare your own coffee and will result into huge savings as against to buying your drink in overpriced coffee shops.
As you start searching for a single serve coffeemaker, you will be overwhelmed with the possibilities that you will be confronted with. Some people may take a look at price and make it as the basis of their purchase decision, but this is never enough as it can lead into compromising quality. You should carefully take a look at the technical specifications, innovative features, and feedbacks from other people.
Are you on the lookout for the best single serve coffee maker that you can find on the market? There is no need to search any further. Keep on reading the rest of this buying guide. We will provide you with insights on some of the most important factors that should be taken into consideration. We will also have short reviews of some of the models that we can highly-recommend.
Top 10 Best Single Serve Coffee Maker Reviews/ Best Single Cup Coffee Maker Reviews
In this part, we will have a rundown of some of the best options that you can consider, as well as the features that give them an advantage above other choices within the competitive landscape.
Keurig 2.0 Brewing System
Those who are looking for a programmable coffeemaker will surely be happy knowing this model, which is made by one of the most trusted names within the product category. Because of this, you can enjoy the best when it comes to flexibility as you will have complete control on how it works, such as its brew strength.
The sleek appeal of this model is another thing that can prove to be impressive. This is one of the coffeemakers that you can display in the counter. It is stylish, and for sure, will captivate the attention of anyone passing by the kitchen. From all of the coffeemakers from Keurig, this is the most budget-friendly on the market.
Even if it is made by a trusted and globally-known brand, you can expect the price to be competitive, making it perfect for an entry-level coffeemaker. The 2-inch touch screen display is another feature that you will love. It may not be large, but the size is generous enough to provide you with a good display. Because it is touch screen, this can also be user-friendly.
Pros
- Nine brewing options
- Speed
Cons
- Lack of temperature control
- Works only with K-cups
Keurig K45 Elite Brewing System
Based on the opinions that have been shared by the users of this product, one thing that they liked the most is the charcoal filter system. This means that even if you are using tap water, you can expect the coffee to taste clean and crisp given the dependable filtration system that comes with this model.
If you are looking for a coffeemaker that is easy to use, this should be on the top of your list. The buttons are laid out strategically and the manufacturer provides detailed instructions on how you can maximize the functionality of the product.
When it comes to versatility, you have another good reason to consider this single cup coffeemaker. It is compatible with a wide array of K-cups, making it useful regardless of what flavor you want for your coffee.
It is also worth noting that it can brew your coffee in less than a minute. With this lightning-fast speed, there is no wonder why it is a model that is well-received by many. You do not need to wait for a long time before you can finally sip your dose of caffeine.
Pros
- Brews quietly
- Quick brewing
Cons
- Needs regular cleaning
- No automatic start
Cuisinart SS-700 Single Serve Coffee Brewer
This is another option that stands out in the market for personal coffeemakers. Consistency is one of the reasons on why this is the case. All throughout the functional life of this product you can expect consistent results, which means that you can enjoy flavorful coffee all the time.
One feature that is worth highlighting about this model is its big water reservoir which can handle up to 80 ounces. This means that it will take several brewing before you need to have it refilled. This, however, can also be a problem as it increases the size of the coffeemaker, making it consume larger space in the counter.
If you are searching for a product that is effortless to maintain, you have to consider this model. With just mild soap and running water, you can easily have it cleaned right after every use. This makes it a snap to ensure its long-term functionality.
Words of praises have also been expressed about its control panel, which is one of the reasons why it is user-friendly. It displays the information that you need to know and will provide you with different choices to take full control of how your coffee will be brewed.
Pros
- Easy to maintain
- Large water reservoir
Cons
- Expensive price
- Mostly made from plastic
Bunn MCU Single Cup Multi-Use Home Coffee Brewer
The versatility of this model is one of the best things that you can enjoy. Users will be given the opportunity to brew pod or K-cups, which is an option that is not usually found in other models. There are four separate drawers that will provide users with more options with regards to what they can brew.
There are also many features that make it user-friendly. For instance, it has Spin Lid, allowing you to add water in a snap. It also brews your coffee, or even your tea, in less than one minute. You do not need to wait long before you can finally enjoy your freshly-brewed drink.
Many of the users of this model also loved the Pulse function, which is basically the one that is responsible for providing extra strong brews. This is ideal for people who prefer coffee with higher strength.
Lastly, many also fell in love with the durable construction of this model. This means that it will be able to withstand long-term use in the absence of compromising its functionality. From the materials used to its overall design, it is built with durability in mind.
Pros
- Excellent customer service
- Easy to use
Cons
- No water reservoir
- No adjustable temperature
Mr. Coffee BVMC-KG6R-001 Single Serve Coffee Brewer
Innovation meets affordability – this is perhaps the best way to describe this product, often considered by many as the best single serve coffeemaker. It has a wealth of advanced features, yet it comes with an affordable price, making it a budget-friendly option.
This is also excellent because it is versatile. You will have the option to brew your coffee in three different sizes – 6, 8, and 10 ounces.
Being user-friendly is another reason why this is a top option within the product category. All that you need is to put your cup and select the desired brewing option. Even cleaning the unit will be effortless on your end, allowing users to maintain its superior quality in spite of frequent and long-term use.
This has also been praised by many for operating without noise. Even if it is powerful and quick, you can expect it to function without producing an annoying sound.
The removable drip tray is also a plus. This makes it easy to catch the drippings and can also be removed to be able to accommodate even taller cups.
Lastly, many buyers also loved that it already comes with a 5-piece variety pack of K-cups. You can start making your drink once it is received without having to buy K-cups.
Pros
- Large water tank
- Automatic shut-off feature
Cons
- Limited to the use of K-cups
- No programmable features
Keurig K40 Elite Brewing System
The motor of this coffeemaker is perhaps one of its best features. It has 1,500 watts, making it an excellent choice for a coffeemaker. With this impressive power, it also means that you do not have to wait long before your coffee is ready. In less than one minute, you can already enjoy your caffeine fix.
The small size of this model is also a good reason to have it considered above all others. It can make only one cup at a time, which means that it is good for personal use. This also means that there will be less waste as you will only be making coffee that is right for you.
It is also going to be effortless to clean. The main parts, which include the reservoir, brewing basket, and carafe, are all dishwasher-safe. Most of the parts can be washed by placing them directly under running water. For sure, maintaining their optimal quality will be almost effortless on your end.
It is going to be a flexible addition in the kitchen. It can be used not only for making coffee, but also for tea, hot chocolate, and even for iced tea.
Pros
- Automatic shut-off
- Powerful motor
Cons
- Limited programmability
- Looks flimsy
Keurig K75 Single Cup Home Brewing System with Water Filter Kit
More than just temperature, the quality of water will also have an effect on the output. Therefore, if the water has impurities, which is common if it was sourced from tap, the coffee may taste stale or lacking in flavor. This model is an excellent choice because of the built-in water filtration. This makes sure that you will have clean-tasting coffee all the time.
Speed is another reason why this will make an exceptional pick. Before you start, fill it with water and allow it to initially heat for about five minutes. Once this process is complete, it will be about only twenty seconds before you can brew one cup.
The LCD control panel has also left many users in awe. This is good not only in terms of aesthetics, but also when it comes to being user-friendly. You can easily see the controls and you will be able to monitor the functioning of the machine, leaving no room for guesswork.
You will also love it for its versatility. It can brew in five different sizes – 4, 6, 8, 10, and 12-ounce cups.
Lastly, as one of the top options for the best single serve coffeemaker, many of the reviews were also positive because of the large tank of this model. The reservoir can hold up to 72 ounces of water.
Pros
- Large reservoir
- Has water filtration
Cons
- Water filter is expensive
- Not long lasting
Keurig K145 OfficePro Brewing System
If there is one reason why this will make a good option within the product category, it would be because it is made from heavy duty materials. The manufacturer invested in the right materials to ensure that it is going to be functional for an extended period. Since it is built for the office, it is constructed in such a way that it can withstand heavy use.
The well-thought design of this model is also worth highlighting. For instance, it comes with a removable drop tray. You can easily have it removed and take out any mess from the drippings. When it is removed, you will also be able to brew your coffee even in a taller mug.
This is going to be an exceptional choice for people who are looking for options that can prove to be energy-efficient. This is possible because of the automatic shut-off feature, allowing you to consume less energy. If it has been left idle for at least two hours, the unit will power off on its own.
Lastly, you will love this product because it is more than just a coffeemaker. It is going to be a versatile addition in the office because it can also be used in making tea, hot chocolate, or iced beverage.
Pros
- Good for the office
- Durable
Cons
- Loud noise
- Takes a while to heat up
Nespresso A+GCA1-US-CH-NE VertuoLine Coffee Espresso Maker
Made by another name that is trusted on the market, it has captivated the attention of many people primarily because of its one-touch brewing, which is reflective of simplicity of its operations. It will eject the capsule once brewing is done.
The automatic blend recognition is another reason why this can be considered as an excellent product. This is made possible by the intelligent extraction system, one technology that makes it distinct from others within the competition. There is a bar code on the capsule, and this used to automatically optimize the setting for the best brew.
It also has Centrifusion extraction technology. This is a patented feature, which allows the capsules to make up to 7,000 rotations per minute. This leads into the perfect crema every time you make your coffee.
The capsules that are used in this coffeemaker are also highly commended. They are in hermetically-sealed aluminum cups. They are made with attention to every detail, making sure that robust flavor and aroma will be experienced in every capsule.
Pros
- Simple to use
- Effortless to clean
Cons
- Not hot enough
- Can be loud
Keurig Platinum K75 Gourmet Single Cup Coffee Maker
Speed is one of the main reasons why this model is a standout in the competitive landscape. Within just a few seconds, your coffee will be ready. The best thing is that you do not need to exert too much effort. The machine will take care of your caffeine fix!
To make it more user-friendly, it also comes with programmable controls. More so, there is an automatic shut off feature, which is vital for safety. The temperature can also be adjusted depending on how hot you want the water to be.
It has also been given words of praises by many because of the reusable coffee filter. This can make it economical in the long run.
The coffeemaker comes with 60-ounce water reservoir, which is quite large. You can also choose different cup sizes from 4 to 12 ounces.
There were some users, however, who noted that it has a certain chemical-like smell, which will be evident when you drink your coffee. This can be resolved by making sure that it is properly cleaned before its initial use.
Pros
- Brews in multiple sizes
- Brews quickly
Cons
- Expensive price
- Can lead into an unwanted aftertaste
Best Brands of Single Serve Coffeemaker
To have peace of mind with the decision that you are going to make, limit your choices to the following brands, which are some of the best according to feedbacks from their users:
Keurig
As one of the trusted brands in the marketplace, the company offers an extensive selection of products for every budget. If you want to make consistently delicious and effortlessly simple coffee at the comfort of your own place, this is a brand worth considering.
Cuisinart
This brand is known for a wealth of selection of kitchen products, including coffeemakers. To savor the good life – this is the mission of the company. To do this, they have been introducing innovative features in their products since the company started its operations in 1973.
Bunn
Since the 1950s, the company has been known for their coffeemakers, which are given favorable feedbacks because of their speed and simplicity. From its humble beginnings in Illinois, it has grown into a brand with global presence. They offer a variety of patented technologies, giving the company an edge above their competitors.
MrCoffee
The company is committed towards bringing a rich coffee experience at the comfort of your own home. Dubbed as “America’s Original Coffeemaker”, the company takes pride in their wide selection of products, including top-notch single cup coffeemakers.
Nespresso
The luxurious coffeemakers you see in coffee shops can be bought at home through the products from this brand. They also have a wide range of choices for capsules, providing users with diversity of flavors to explore. The brand was first introduced in 1967 by an inventor who used to work at Nestle.
Types of Single Serve Coffeemakers
Before you decide on which one to pick, let us first have a quick look at some of the common types of coffeemakers that you can see on the market:
K-cups/ T-Discs/ Capsules
The latter refers to the source of coffee that will be inserted in the machine. K-cups are from Keurig and they are stored in a small yogurt-style cups. Tassimo uses T-discs while Nespresso uses their capsules. Some of its benefits include variety, speed, and convenience.
Pods
In this type of single-serve coffeemaker, there is an encasement, comparable to a tea bag. This is where the coffee bean grinds will be placed. Once they are in their right position, the brewing process can automatically start.
Traditional Models
This is the most basic type that you can see within the product category, and hence, you can expect that this is also going to be an affordable choice. The coffee grinds and filter can be placed in a small area and brewing can start.
Why You Should Buy a Single Serve Coffeemaker
If you do not yet have a single serve coffeemaker, chances are, it is because you have no idea how it can be beneficial in more ways than one. With this, here are some of the reasons that can convince you to have the best single cup coffee maker:
- Convenience: This is perhaps one of the best benefits of a single serve coffeemaker. It will allow you to prepare your own cup of coffee within a few minutes. You do not have to exert a lot of effort and you can be sure that your caffeine fix is ready in a short while.
- Less Waste: If you are on your own at home, a multi-cup coffeemaker will lead into waste. With a single cup coffeemaker, on the other hand, you can make a drink that is good only for you, minimizing the possibility of waste.
- Cheap: The initial cost of a single serve coffeemaker may be high. When you think of the long-term cost, on the other hand, this will be a financially-sound investment. You can just make your own coffee than buy from overpriced coffee shops.
- Ease of Maintenance: A single cup coffeemaker is small and simple. With this, having it cleaned will not require too much effort on your part, providing you with the assurance that its superior quality will remain for long.
- Professional Results: Unless you are a barista or trained with coffee-making, you won’t be able to make good-tasting coffee at home. With the best single serve coffeemaker on the other hand, this can be effortlessly possible. You just need to have the right capsules, and for sure, you can create coffee that is comparable to what you can have in high-end coffee shops.
Essential Factors to Consider
In this section, we will discuss some of the most important considerations that will ensure making the right choice. By keeping these things in mind, there is a higher likelihood of making an option that won’t bring regrets and that can provide the best value for money.
Price
A lot of people will surely be tempted to buy products with cheap prices. However, being cheap does not necessarily mean being a good option, especially if it is going to sacrifice quality.
You should consider your coffeemaker as an investment. This means that you should not hesitate to spend more if this is going to be tantamount into being able to provide better quality and functionality.
There are many factors that will have an impact on the price of the coffeemaker. For instance, this could depend on the brand name of the product that you are going to choose. More so, the more features there are, the more expensive it is going to be. The warranty that is being offered by the manufacturer, as well as their customer service, will also affect cost.
Reviews
If you have no idea on which one is the best on the market, the best thing that you can do is to go online and look at the reviews that have been shared by other people. Many users are generous enough to share their insights and experiences, which will make it easy for you to differentiate one from the other.
If you do not trust the opinions of strangers, you can consider asking around from people you personally know. Pay attention to what they are saying about ease of use, ease of maintenance, durability, and quality of coffee, among others.
Warranty
For buyers who are looking for peace of mind about their purchase, they should consider the extent of the warranty coverage that is offered by the manufacturer. If they believe in the quality of their product, they will not hesitate to offer a long-lasting warranty.
The typical is one year, but it can go up to five years, with some even providing lifetime warranty. This means that within the warranty period, the manufacturer can execute the necessary repairs without costs on your end. Just make sure to read the terms and conditions from the manufacturer to avoid the warranty from being voided.
Brew Strength
In your search for the best option on the market, you should take into consideration the versatility of the coffeemaker. This means that you must be able to use it with optimal control and freedom. By being able to choose the brew strength, you can choose how you want the output to be.
You can choose to have it manually adjusted if you want more control. Whether you want the coffee to be lighter or darker, you can do it as you want.
Brewing Time
It is also important to consider the speed at which the product will make your coffee. Since it is a single cup coffeemaker, you can expect that your coffee will be ready within just a few seconds. Nonetheless, this will still depend on the individual technical specifications of the products.
For instance, the power or the wattage will impact how long it will be before your coffee is finally ready. The size of the cup that is being brewed will also be critical.
Cleaning and Maintenance
To prolong the functional life of the coffeemaker and to make sure that it is going to make the best brew all the time, you should have it cleaned regularly. It must be well-maintained. With this, you should take into account the maintenance that is required. It will be good if it is dishwasher-safe. You should also choose one that has fewer moving or removable parts. The manufacturer must provide comprehensive instructions on how it can be cleaned.
Overtime, your coffeemaker can demonstrate reduced functionality if it is not maintained properly. Calcification, for instance can be a problem. Mineral deposits and sediments from water can accumulate and harden. This is going to have a negative effect on the efficiency of the unit, and more importantly, the flavor of coffee. Make sure that it is cleaned religiously and properly to have the best cup of coffee every time it is used.
Durability
This is one thing that will have an impact on the overall quality of the coffeemaker. The materials that are used will be a primary consideration. Plastic is common, which is lightweight and cheap. More expensive materials include steel and aluminum.
It is important to invest in one that can withstand frequent and long-term use. However, it should also be noted that more than the materials that are used, you should also make it well-maintained if you want it to last long.
Style
Aesthetics is another important consideration, but often ignored by many people. A lot may not care about style and will most probably choose only on the basis of price. Nonetheless, it is also critical to consider the design of the model that you will choose.
A high-quality coffeemaker should be an excellent accent piece to any home. You can just leave it in the kitchen counter and it must blend well with your interior design, Chose colors that are complementary for your kitchen. While keeping in mind style, functionality and ease of use should never be compromised.
Water Reservoir
If you are looking for a product that can offer the best when it comes to convenience, you have to look for one that has a detachable reservoir. With a large reservoir, you won’t need to think about having the need to refill water frequently.
Even if you will only brew one cup at a time, with a reservoir that has generous size, you do not have to repeatedly add water. It will also be good if the water reservoir is transparent, which will make it easy to monitor its content and easily know when there is a need to add more.
If you are on a budget, on the other hand, you can forego this feature as this can significantly lessen the price tag of the coffeemaker.
Ease of Use
There are many people who are possibly intimidated with the idea of having a coffeemaker because of the assertion that its use is going to be complicated.
With this, you have to look for one that is effortless to operate. Having fewer buttons will be an indication of its simplicity. It will also be good if there are automatic features, allowing the unit to adjust on its own and not requiring the user to do different functions.
Aside from being easy to operate, it must also be easy to clean and maintain.
Safety
Convenience is a major reason why many people turn into single cup coffeemakers. You can just turn it on and within a short time, your caffeine fix is ready. However, there are also safety issues that should be addressed. One of the most critical would be overheating.
With this, we highly recommend that you choose a product that comes with automatic shut-off feature. Once the coffee is ready, it will turn off on its own, and hence, there is no risk for electrical problems that could result from overheating.
Water Filtration
This is a feature that is optional, but it will be good if you can choose a model that comes with this technology. This is going to make sure that the water is clean and safe once it is used for making coffee. To be assured that the aroma and flavor of your coffee will not be negatively altered, you need to use only clean or filtered water.
You can opt to have your own water filtration system at home, but a more convenient option is to choose a model that can filter water on its own. Water filters, however, should be replaced after a specified period to keep it optimally functioning.
Temperature Settings
When it comes to making the best-tasting coffee, temperature plays a critical role. According to coffee experts, the ideal brewing temperature would be 195 to 202 degrees Fahrenheit.
If you want the best coffeemaker, you should settle with one that comes with temperature control. This will allow you to be in complete control as you can change how hot or cold the water will be depending on your preferences. Automatic temperature adjustments will also be good to eliminate guesswork on your end.
Capsules
Modern coffeemakers require the use of capsules. Generally speaking, this is the one that will dictate the flavor of your coffee. Keurig, Nespresso, Hamilton Beach, and Bunn, among other brands, are compatible with different kinds of capsules.
You need to make sure that it can be used with capsules, and more importantly, you have to consider the variety of the flavors that are available. Keurig is one of the most popular because of the wide array of capsules that are compatible with their machines. Even the capsules from Starbucks can be used in a Keurig coffeemaker.
The cost of the capsules is also going to be a primary consideration as this is going to be indicative of the long-term cost of using the coffeemaker. Make sure that it is compatible with capsules that come with practical cost if you are looking for an option that can prove to be economical in the long run.
Noise
Even if a single cup coffeemaker is compact and small, it ca create a loud noise when it functions. From the kitchen, anyone around the area can know that you are brewing your coffee. This may be a petty issue for some people, but for others this is a critical concern.
If noise bothers you, it would be good to invest in more expensive models, specifically those that can brew coffee in a manner that is whisper quiet.
Package Inclusions
If you want to be provided with the best value for money in your search for the best single serve coffee maker, you have to take a look at what is included in the package. Aside from the actual coffeemaker, there could also be some accessories that are present.
More importantly, it should come with as election of capsules or K-cups. At least a dozen will be enough. Some also provides a rack or an organizer for the proper storage of the capsules.
Customer Support
Most of the buyers of single cup coffeemakers will most probably ignore this. It is important to choose a manufacturer that can provide exceptional customer support. This means that they must have a support team available round-the-clock to provide you with the assistance that you need.
If you need help in troubleshooting, you must be able to easily get in touch with their people and assistance should be immediately available. This means that any problem can be addressed the soonest.
Conclusion
Indeed, your search for the best single serve coffee maker/single cup coffee maker will never be an easy feat. If you start searching online, you will be overwhelmed with the long list of the products that you will be confronted with.
This, however, does not mean that you can just choose any product or decide on the basis of which one is the cheapest. It is important to think thoroughly and consult with the opinions of other people.
If you want to make a decision that you will not regret, we highly recommend that you keep an eye on the ten products we have earlier mentioned. We took a look at their features and considered the reviews of other users. With confidence, we can say that these brands and models are indeed some of the best that you will ever find.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why should I have a single serve coffee maker?
The reasons can be endless. It is cheaper than buying coffee from Starbucks or other coffee shops. It is also convenient and simple, especially if you choose the right model. Since it brews a single cup, it can also prevent waste. It can provide you with great-tasting coffee at the comfort of your own home, as if it has been prepared by a barista.
What is the best brand of single cup coffeemaker?
There is no definite answer to this question. It all boils down on personal preferences and budget. Generally speaking, however, some of the best include Keurig, Nespresso, Bunn, Mr. Coffee and Cuisinart. Do not just look at the brand name. Consider as well their features and reviews from their past users.
How do I clean my coffeemaker?
Follow the instructions that are specified by the manufacturer. Make sure that it is unplugged before cleaning. Take out all of the removable parts. Do not use abrasive cleaners as they can damage the materials. See first if it is dishwasher-safe. Make sure that they are completely dry before storage. You can also use a combination of water and white vinegar.
Are they energy-efficient?
Generally speaking, they consume minimal energy. This is basically because they brew only a single cup. When they are in idle mode, the peak power is only 60 watts. On the other hand, when it is brewing, the peak power is only about 1,500 watts.
How long does it take to make my coffee?
This is subjective and will depend on the type of single serve coffeemaker that will be chosen. Generally speaking, it could take between thirty seconds to one minute. Take note, however, that being faster does not necessarily mean being the better option.
Why does my coffee taste bad?
There are many reasons on why this is the case. One would most probably because you have used coffee beans with dismal quality. In most instances, it could also be because of your coffeemaker. Sediments or leftover soap from recent cleaning can significantly alter the taste of your drink.
Which coffee beans should I used?
This is going to be a matter of personal decision. Do you want it light or robust? Do you prefer the aroma to be strong or subtle? All these things can affect your choice for coffee beans. Generally speaking, however, you can use whatever beans you prefer.
Should I decalcify my coffeemaker?
Overtime, magnesium and calcium can cause problems in the heating element of your coffeemaker. This is especially true if you are using hard water from tap. Decalcifying is recommended to be done at least once a month. Refer to the instructions from the manufacturer to know how this can be done.
Can I adjust brew strength?
Yes you can, but not in all models. For those with the brew strength selector, you can adjust the strength depending on the flavor that you want. This will provide you with complete control on how you would want your coffee to be.
Is there a water filter included?
Water filtration is an uncommon feature, but most high-end models can offer such. This means that you can use even water from tap and the machine will have it filtered before making your coffee. This will make sure that the water is clean and most importantly, will improve the flavor of your coffee.
