Single Serve Coffee Makers Comparison

Single-serve coffee machines can be used for a quick cup of coffee or cold brew. They can make use of pre-packaged coffee pods or reusable filters that are filled with ground beans.

Coffee drinkers who appreciate customization will want a machine which can make a full pot of drip coffee or espresso shots. These machines are also designed to minimize the environmental impact of disposable coffee pods. They make use of capsules that are recyclable or reusable.

1. Keurig K-Elite

The K-Elite has a beautiful design that blends premium finishes with customizable features. It's among the most versatile Keurig models in terms of the types of drinks it can brew. it can brew K-Cups and ground coffee as well as hot chocolate and tea. The large, reusable 72-ounce tank can produce up to seven medium-sized cups before requiring a refill. It's also compatible with reusable K-Cup pods, which could save you money in the long run.

Despite having way more buttons on its control panel than any other Keurig model, it's easy to navigate and use. The top control panel includes an energy button and a settings button. It also has up and down buttons to navigate the menu. There are also four different size brew buttons, an "iced button" as well as a "strong button" as well as one for hot water. A large LCD display with color coded colors allows you to easily see when the machine needs a descale or a refill.

While the K-Elite is one of our top Keurig models however, it has some disadvantages. It can be difficult for example to clean since it does not have a drip tray that is removable and the lid isn't secured. Also, the spout tends to leave a few splatters especially when using shorter travel mugs.

In our Coffee Makers Test Program, we also tested the K-Elite and found it to perform well in most categories. It did better than average in first-cup speed, repeat speed, and temperature consistency.

It was also the quickest to boil the water before brewing the cup. And it was the least likely to make grounds. However, the K-Elite did not make as hot of a cup as some of our other top models. The iced coffee also was less flavorful than its strong coffee. However, the K-Elite is a great choice for anyone who wants the convenience of one-serve coffee makers. It is available from numerous retailers, including Keurig, Amazon, Walmart and Wayfair. It can be found for around $150. The K-Classic model is also an option if are looking for a less expensive model. It's priced a bit higher than the Elite however, not as much as some of our top choices.

2. Single-Serve Coffee Maker BLACK+DECKER

A single serving coffee machine-serve machine enables you to make coffee quickly and on demand. These machines are smaller, less bulky and perfect for small kitchens or dorms. They also offer the ability to prepare a variety of different coffee beverages, including espresso-style shots and lattes. They are simple to clean and use and make a great choice for busy families.

The BLACK+DECKER CM618 may be one of the cheapest models on the market but it has some important attributes that are worth a look. It comes with a permanent filter which can be used with ground coffee or soft coffee pods. It also has an automatic shut-off function to conserve energy and water. It takes just a few minutes to brew one cup of coffee and comes with a thermos travel mug that is compatible with most standard car cup holders (though you can use your own mug if you prefer).

In our tests, we discovered that the BLACK+DECKER can make an excellent cup of coffee in less than half the time it took to produce the average model. It also has programmable functions that are usually reserved for more expensive models like an auto-start.

Its sleek, retro style is a perfect fit for anyone who appreciates an elegant look that is coordinated with other kitchen appliances Its lightweight construction and removable water tank makes it easy to move. Our testers found it relatively simple to operate and use, with a simple menu and control panel that was easy to understand even for those with no prior experience using a single-serve coffee machine. However, the brew time was only average in our tests, and it was not able to reach 195degF for five or six minutes--the industry standard for the best rated single serve coffee machines flavor. The brew temperature was also noticeably higher than that of other models in our tests and could result in overheated coffee and burnt grounds. However, despite these issues, the CM618 remains an excellent option for those on a budget who want to make brews using K-Cup pods and their own ground coffee.

3. Nespresso Vertuo Single-Serve Coffee Maker

Nespresso machines differ from K-Cup and Keurig machines since they make use of their own coffee pods. The brand separates its pod-based machines into two categories: VertuoLine and Original. VertuoLine machines are designed to create larger milk and coffee recipes, like lattes and cappuccinos. Original machines are more expensive than VertuoLine because they were made to be used with Nespresso capsules that can be reused and recycled.

The VertuoLine XP371 Nespresso comes with four different sizes of drink and intelligent capsule detection and the centrifusion brewing technique. It also has modern, sleek design and a removable water tank that can hold 37 ounces of water. The machine is easy-to-use and comes with an automated system that lets pods empty inside a container that is built inside the machine. It takes between 15 and 20 seconds to preheat and shuts down automatically after nine minutes.

In our tests, we found that the XP371 produced an excellent cup. It made a great cup of coffee that had an excellent crema. It was also hot enough to drink in the morning without burning your tongue. However it was slower than other models to prepare. It took 1 minute and 51 seconds to make 7.7 ounces of coffee which was the third-lowest speed in our tests. It's not a huge issue but if you're used to brewing coffee quickly in the morning, this could be an issue.

Overall the NespressoXP371 is a great choice for coffee and espresso lovers who wish to cut back on waste. Its design is more elegant than other pod brewers. It is also compatible with Nespresso capsules which are more sustainable. The VertuoLine's cost and dependence on proprietary capsules may turn some buyers off.

If you don't have the money to invest in a top-rated single serve coffee makers-serve pod maker but still love the convenience of one-serve machines, we recommend checking out our best reusable cups review. You might also want to consider one of our favorite tumblers with insulation to keep your tea or coffee warm.

4. Cuisinart DCC-1200

This coffee maker has been praised by thousands of users for its convenience features and many other models do not have them. Its price is quite reasonable for a product of its quality and has a sleek design to boot. However, some users have reported this model as a potential fire hazard and this is something to certainly keep in mind in the event that you're thinking of buying it.

The fully automated coffeemaker can be programmed for up to 24 hours. You can configure it to make four cups or twelve at the same time, or one cup or four cups. The carafe is thermal design and permanent gold-tone wire mesh filter and charcoal filter eliminate impurities, which enhances the flavor of the brew. There is a 30-second "Brew Pause" feature that interrupts the brewing cycle to allow you to pour a cup of brew, and the self-cleaning function keeps the tank clean.

The controls are well-spaced and clearly labeled. You'll be able to quickly determine the function of each button. Other features include a self-cleaning that alerts you to decalcify the tank and carafe as well as an automatic shutoff and a knuckle-guard dripless spout that allows for a comfortable pouring. This coffee maker is easy to use and comes with gorgeous brushed stainless finish.

However, some customers have found the permanent gold tone mesh filter difficult to clean, and this may be a problem for those who prefer paper filters. Some have also reported that they cannot get the reservoir to fill properly due to an issue with the design that pushes water through a tiny opening in the back of the machine before it goes into the filter.

Some have complained that their Cuisinart Coffee Maker spits water and coffee grounds all over the counter while it is operating, but this is an uncommon occurrence. In any case, this is a fantastic coffee maker that is worth a look if you are looking for a basic model with plenty of convenience features at a reasonable cost.