Contents
- The Top 8
- Top 8 Coffee Makers Reviewed in Detail
- 1. Editor’s Choice
- 2. Best for One Person
- 3. Best Lightweight
- 4. Best for Daily Use
- 5. Best for Small Spaces
- 6. Best Budget
- 7. Best Heavy-Duty
- 8. Runner-Up
- Coffee Makers Compared Side by Side
- How We Reviewed
- How to Choose Coffee Makers
- What to look for
- Frequently asked questions
Choosing the best coffee maker for one person can be difficult. The BLACK+DECKER 12-Cup Drip Coffee Maker with Vortex Brewing is the best choice. Its 12-cup glass carafe has measurement markings for accurate filling. If you’re looking for savings, the Elite Gourmet EHC4128 Automatic 4-Cup Drip Coffee Maker is a great option. It brews only four cups, which is a smaller capacity but saves money.
The main tradeoff is between a large capacity coffee maker like the BLACK+DECKER and a smaller model like the Elite Gourmet. The first one allows you to brew more at once. The latter is a more compact choice. The rest of the page offers detailed insights on several coffee makers to help you decide.
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The Top 8
Top 8 Coffee Makers Reviewed in Detail
Here are our top picks for coffee makers that suit one person.
1. Editor’s Choice
BLACK+DECKER 12-Cup Drip Coffee Maker with Vortex Brewing
- 12-CUP DURALIFE GLASS CARAFE: The sturdy 12-cup* carafe has measurement markings for accurate filling and an easy-grip handle for comfortable pouring. *Cup equals approximately 5 ounces (varies by brewing technique).
- SNEAK-A-CUP FEATURE TO PREVENT DRIPS: This feature temporarily stops the flow of coffee so you can pour your first cup before brewing ends without making a mess.
- EASY-VIEW WATER WINDOW: The front-facing window shows you the exact amount of water that will turn into coffee, and the brew basket requires a standard paper coffee filter for proper operation.
- DIGITAL CONTROLS WITH RUBBERIZED FEEL: Large, rubberized buttons give you full control of the coffeemaker, and the easy-read screen displays the clock, brew time, and programming options.
- QUICKTOUCH PROGRAMMING WITH AUTO SHUTOFF: Easily program the 24-hour auto brew feature so you can wake up to a fresh pot of coffee or whenever you desire. 2-Hour Auto Shutoff for added safety and peace of mind with every use.
The BLACK+DECKER 12-Cup Drip Coffee Maker with Vortex Brewing is our top pick. Its unique Vortex Technology ensures even saturation for rich flavor. The sturdy 12-cup glass carafe allows for accurate filling due to its measurement markings. This model is well-reviewed for reliability and ease of use, making it suitable for busy mornings.
Compared to other coffee makers, such as the Ninja Fresh Brew Coffee Maker, this one offers a better balance of capacity and brewing efficiency. The Ninja model has great flavor options but is generally more expensive. The BLACK+DECKER stands out for its value and user-friendly features, appealing to those who want a dependable everyday machine.
One limitation is that the larger capacity may not be necessary for someone living alone. If you drink only one or two cups daily, it might be more than you need. However, this machine is still practical for those who enjoy entertaining guests or brewing multiple cups at once.
Pros
- 12-cup glass carafe with measurement markings
- Vortex Technology for rich flavor extraction
- Sneak-a-cup feature prevents drips
Cons
- Larger capacity may lead to wasted coffee for one person
- Glass carafe is less durable than thermal options
- No programmable features
Best for: Individuals who enjoy multiple cups of coffee. Not ideal for: Those who only drink one cup daily.
A reliable choice for coffee lovers who prefer convenience and flavor.
2. Best for One Person
Ninja Fresh Brew Coffee Maker, 12 Cup Glass Carafe, Stainless Steel, CE251
- 2 BREW STYLES: Classic or Rich, each brew is flavorful and never bitter with custom brew strengths.
- 12-CUP GLASS CARAFE: Brew small or large batches of coffee – perfect for day to day or entertaining.
- HOTTER BREWING TECHNOLOGY: Delivers even saturation and temperature control for ultra-flavorful coffee.
- SMALL BATCH FUNCTION: Ensure your coffee is never diluted when brewing a small batch (1-4 cups).
- WAKE UP TO HOT COFFEE: 24-hour programmable delay brew allows you to prepare your brew up to a day in advance.
- ADJUSTABLE WARMING PLATE: Keep coffee fresh and flavorful up to 4 hours.
- REMOVABLE WATER RESERVOIR: Conveniently carry the 60-oz removable water reservoir to your sink for easy filling.
- MID-BREW PAUSE: Pour yourself a cup before the brew is complete.
- CLEAN SETTING: Descale your coffee maker at the touch of a button.
- WHAT’S INCLUDED: Ninja Programmable Brewer, 12-cup Glass Carafe, Permanent Filter, Ninja Integrated Scoop, & 60-oz removable water reservoir.
The Elite Gourmet EHC4128 Automatic 4-Cup Drip Coffee Maker is an excellent pick for those who brew smaller quantities. This model is compact, making it easy to store in small kitchens. Its 4-cup capacity is just right for a single user or small gatherings. The semi-transparent water reservoir lets you know how much water is available for brewing.
When compared to larger options, this model stands out for its size and ease of use. Unlike the BLACK+DECKER 12-Cup model, which may waste coffee, the Elite Gourmet is designed for those who want just a few cups at a time. However, it doesn’t offer advanced brewing features found in some pricier models.
A possible drawback is its limited capacity. While it suits one person well, those who occasionally host guests may find it insufficient. Still, for everyday use by an individual, it is a great fit.
Pros
- Compact size for easy storage
- 4-cup glass carafe for individual needs
- Pause ‘n serve feature for quick pours
Cons
- Limited to brewing only 4 cups
- Less sturdy features than larger models
- Not ideal for entertaining larger groups
Best for: Individuals who drink one or two cups a day. Not ideal for: Those who host guests often.
A compact and practical choice for daily coffee needs.
3. Best Lightweight
BLACK+DECKER 12-Cup Coffee Maker with Easy On/Off Switch, Easy Pour, Non-Drip Carafe with Removable Filter Basket, Vortex Technology, Black
- VORTEX TECHNOLOGY: The exclusive showerhead design evenly saturates coffee grounds, resulting in rich flavor extraction for maximum flavor.
- SNEAK-A-CUP: This feature temporarily stops the flow of coffee, allowing you to pour your first cup before brewing ends without making a mess. Be sure to return carafe to the “Keep Hot” plate within 30 seconds to avoid overflow, and brewing will resume.
- NO-DRIP PERFECT POUR SPOUT: Don’t put up with annoying spills. The carafe spout on this coffee maker is designed to prevent spills and drips while pouring.
- REMOVABLE FILTER BASKET: Cleanup is easy with the dishwasher-safe brew basket, which is compatible with basket-style paper filters.
- KEEP HOT CARAFE PLATE: The heated carafe plate keeps coffee in the 12-cup carafe at the ideal drinking temperature after brewing. Refer to your user guide for more brewing techniques.
The BLACK+DECKER 12-Cup Coffee Maker with Easy On/Off Switch is designed for those who appreciate simplicity. This model features Vortex Technology for even brewing, ensuring great flavor. Its easy pour and non-drip carafe makes serving hassle-free, which is perfect for busy mornings.
When compared to the Ninja Fresh Brew Coffee Maker, this model may lack some advanced brewing options. However, the BLACK+DECKER model is straightforward and reliable. It does not complicate the brewing process, making it user-friendly for someone who might be new to coffee makers.
A limitation is that it does not include any programmable settings. This may be inconvenient for users who enjoy waking up to freshly brewed coffee. However, it is a solid choice if you prioritize ease of use over advanced features.
Pros
- Easy On/Off switch for convenience
- Vortex Technology for rich flavor extraction
- Non-drip carafe for mess-free pouring
Cons
- No programmable brewing options
- Larger capacity may not be needed for one
- Less flavor variety compared to other models
Best for: Users who prefer a simple and reliable coffee maker. Not ideal for: Those who want advanced brewing features.
A straightforward model that emphasizes ease of use.
4. Best for Daily Use
Keurig K-Duo Hot & Iced Single Serve & Carafe Coffee Maker, MultiStream Technology, 72oz Reservoir (Gen 2)
- BREW BY THE CUP OR CARAFE: Brews both K-Cup pods and coffee grounds.
- MULTISTREAM TECHNOLOGY: Saturates the grounds evenly to extract full flavor and aroma in every cup, hot or cold.
- BREW OVER ICE: Adjusts temperature for maximum flavor and less ice melt for single-cup iced coffees and teas.
- STRONG BREW & EXTRA HOT FUNCTIONALITY: Brews a stronger, more intense-flavored cup and the extra hot feature brews a hotter single cup.
- MULTIPLE BREW SIZES: Brew 6, 8, 10, or 12oz single cups or 6, 8, 10, or 12-cup carafes. 12-cup glass carafe specially designed to limit dripping.
- ONE 72OZ RESERVOIR: The extra-large, removable reservoir is shared by both sides for fast, convenient brewing with fewer refills.
- FRONT-FACING CONTROL PANEL: Intuitive interface for selecting all your brewing preferences.
- PROGRAMMABLE CARAFE AUTO BREW: Set a time for your coffee maker to automatically brew a carafe up to 24 hours in advance.
- COMPACT DESIGN: The versatility of two kinds of brewers in one space-saving unit.
- PAUSE & POUR: Automatically pauses your coffee maker mid-brew for 20 seconds, allowing the carafe to be poured.
The Keurig K-Duo Hot & Iced Coffee Maker offers versatility with its ability to brew both K-Cup pods and ground coffee. This dual functionality is perfect for those who enjoy variety. The MultiStream Technology ensures even extraction and great flavor, whether brewing hot coffee or iced drinks.
In contrast to the BLACK+DECKER models, the Keurig allows for both single and multi-cup brewing. This flexibility is valuable for users who want options. However, it is generally more complex than simpler drip coffee makers, which may not suit everyone.
A limitation is its size, as it may take more counter space than smaller models. It’s also more expensive than basic coffee makers. Still, for those who enjoy flexibility and variety in their brews, it is a fantastic choice.
Pros
- Brews K-Cup pods and coffee grounds
- MultiStream Technology for full flavor extraction
- Brew over ice feature for cold drinks
Cons
- Larger footprint may take up counter space
- Complexity may not suit all users
- More expensive than standard coffee makers
Best for: Users who want versatile brewing options. Not ideal for: Those looking for a simple, budget-friendly coffee maker.
A versatile coffee maker for those who enjoy variety.
5. Best for Small Spaces
BLACK+DECKER 12 Cup Thermal Programmable Coffee Maker with Brew Strength and VORTEX Technology, Black/Steel, CM2046S
- 4-LAYER VACUUM SEALED THERMAL CARAFE: Double-walled 4-layer carafe keeps coffee hot for up to two hours—no warming plate needed. Preheat with hot water before brewing for best results.
- PROGRAMMABLE BREWING WITH AUTO-SHUTOFF: Program the 24-hour auto brew to enjoy fresh coffee anytime. After brewing, heating stops automatically for safety. The display stays lit to show time and freshness.
- VORTEX TECHNOLOGY: Exclusive showerhead design evenly saturates coffee grounds for optimal extraction, delivering full-bodied, rich flavor in every cup.
- BREW STRENGTH SELECTOR: Customize your coffee by pressing the STRONG button for a slower, richer brew, or leave it off for a classic, smooth taste.
- NO-DRIP PERFECT POUR SPOUT: Designed for smooth, mess-free serving. The Perfect
The BLACK+DECKER 12 Cup Thermal Programmable Coffee Maker is designed for those who want coffee that stays hot longer. Its vacuum-sealed thermal carafe keeps coffee hot for up to two hours without a warming plate. This model offers programmable brewing, which allows you to wake up to fresh coffee every morning.
Compared to other models, this one excels in heat retention. It is suitable for those who like to sip coffee over time. However, it may not be the best choice for users who prefer freshly brewed coffee in one go.
One con is that it may be bulkier than other options, taking up more counter space. Users who have limited kitchen space might find it less practical. But for those who enjoy hot coffee throughout the day, it is an excellent choice.
Pros
- Thermal carafe keeps coffee hot for up to two hours
- Programmable brewing for convenience
- Vortex Technology for enhanced flavor
Cons
- Larger size may not fit all kitchens
- Not ideal for quick single servings
- Complexity may discourage some users
Best for: Users who enjoy hot coffee for extended periods. Not ideal for: Those who prefer quick brewing.
Perfect for those who like to savor hot coffee throughout the day.
6. Best Budget
Mr. Coffee Black Coffee Maker, 12 Cups, with Auto Pause and Glass Carafe, Perfect for Home and Office Use
- Explicit Brewing Indicator: On/off indicator light keeps you aware of your coffee maker’s status
- Convenient Feature: Grab-A-Cup Auto Pause stops cycle if you need a cup before brewing is finished
- Hassle-Free: Easy cord storage feature eliminates counter clutter
- Classic Functionality: Mr. Coffee’s 12 Cup Coffee Maker makes rich tasting, expertly brewed coffee effortlessly
- User-Friendly: A removable basket filter that effortlessly lifts out for quick and easy filling and cleaning
- Versatile: Whether you want a single cup or 12, this automatic coffee maker will deliver the goods, time after time
- Guided Use: User guide or manual provided in PDF (refer to the document below) for efficient first time use
- *1 cup = 5 fl oz / 60 fl oz total water capacity
The Mr. Coffee Black Coffee Maker is a straightforward choice for those who want a no-fuss approach. This model features an on/off indicator light, making it easy to see if it’s brewing. The Grab-A-Cup Auto Pause feature lets you pour a cup before the brewing is done, which is convenient for busy mornings.
When compared to the BLACK+DECKER models, it offers similar functionality but lacks advanced features like Vortex Technology. This makes it a bit simpler and easier to operate for those who prefer basic coffee making.
A limitation is that it has a larger capacity, which may lead to waste for someone brewing only for themselves. Users who drink just one or two cups a day may not need all this capacity. Still, it serves well for those who want a reliable and easy coffee maker.
Pros
- On/off indicator light for easy use
- Grab-A-Cup Auto Pause feature for convenience
- Simple to operate with classic functionality
Cons
- Larger capacity may not suit single users
- Basic features compared to premium models
- Limited brewing options
Best for: Users who prefer basic functionality. Not ideal for: Those who want advanced brewing features.
A reliable choice for those who want simplicity.
7. Best Heavy-Duty
Elite Gourmet EHC4128 Automatic 4-Cup Drip Coffee Maker, Black
- SEMI-TRANSPARENT WATER RESERVOIR holds up to 4 cups of water capacity with a level indicator to always ensure you have enough water ready for brewing.
- 4 CUP GLASS CARAFE for brewing the perfect quantity of hot fresh coffee for an individual or a small group of people.
- PAUSE ‘N SERVE allows a quick pour of fresh coffee in the middle of the brewing cycle if you’re running low on time or just need a quick coffee fix.
- KEEP WARM FUNCTION automatically turns on when brewing to keep your coffee hot & fresh.
- RE-USABLE FILTER with removable filter basket is easy to clean and better for the environment by reducing the need for paper cone filters.
The Elite Gourmet EHC4128 Automatic 4-Cup Drip Coffee Maker is compact and designed for smaller servings. It has a semi-transparent water reservoir that holds up to four cups of water. This is perfect for individuals who want just a couple of cups at a time without wasting coffee.
In comparison to larger coffee makers, this model stands out for its size. It allows for easy storage and is ideal for small kitchens. However, the tradeoff is its limited brewing capacity, which may not work for those who host guests often.
A drawback is that it lacks some advanced features like programmable settings. Users looking for more options may find it limiting. Still, it is highly efficient for daily use by one person.
Pros
- Compact design for easy storage
- 4-cup capacity perfect for one or two people
- Pause ‘n serve feature allows for quick pouring
Cons
- Limited to only 4 cups per brew
- No advanced brewing features
- Not suitable for larger gatherings
Best for: Individuals who drink one or two cups. Not ideal for: Those who need to brew for more than two people.
An excellent option for those who value space and simplicity.
8. Runner-Up
Hamilton Beach 2-Way Brewer Coffee Maker, Single-Serve and 12-Cup Pot, Black/Stainless Steel(49980A), Carafe
- 2 WAYS TO BREW: SINGLE CUP OR FULL POT. The included single-serve scoop makes it easy to just scoop, place and brew. You can brew up to 14 oz. into a cup or travel mug on the single-serving side or make up to 12 cups on the carafe side with ground coffee.
- SIMPLE SINGLE-SERVE BREWING: With the included mesh scoop, adding your favorite ground coffee to the single cup coffee maker couldn’t be easier: just scoop, place and brew. (Not compatible with K-Cup* pods.)
- ECO-FRIENDLY AND EASY ON YOUR WALLET. For fresh flavor and less waste, skip the plastic pods. Since this Hamilton Beach coffee maker doesn’t use K-Cup* pods, there’s less to buy and throw away.
- HAMILTON BEACH PROGRAMMABLE COFFEE MAKER WITH MULTIPLE BREW SETTINGS: Choose whether to make a single cup or full pot, select bold or regular brew strength options, and program the coffee maker up to 24 hours in advance for wake-up ready coffee.
- GET YOUR FIRST CUP FAST WITH AN AutoPause & Pour COFFEE MACHINE: Enjoy a quick cup while your coffee is still brewing. There’s no need to wait for the full pot, thanks to the AutoPause & Pour feature on this carafe and single-serve coffee maker.
- 2 SEPARATE EASY-FILL WATER RESERVOIRS: Each brewer has its own water reservoir that’s easy to fill and features a water window, so you always know how much water is on each side.
- *K-Cup is a registered trademark of Keurig Green Mountain, Inc. Use of the K-Cup trademark does not imply any affiliation with or endorsement by Keurig Green Mountain, Inc.
The Hamilton Beach 2-Way Brewer Coffee Maker offers versatility with its ability to brew both a single cup and a full pot. This dual function is perfect for individuals who want options. You can brew up to 14 oz. on the single-serve side or make up to 12 cups on the carafe side.
Compared to other coffee makers, this model stands out for its flexibility. It allows you to easily switch between single servings and larger amounts. However, it can be bulkier than other single-use models, which may be a drawback in small kitchens.
A limitation is its complexity. Users who prefer straightforward coffee brewing might find it overwhelming. Still, it is a good choice for those who enjoy variety and want a coffee maker that adapts to their needs.
Pros
- Dual brewing options for single or full pot
- Includes a single-serve scoop for easy use
- Versatile for different coffee drink preferences
Cons
- Takes up more counter space
- Might be too complex for some users
- More expensive than basic models
Best for: Those who want flexibility in brewing options. Not ideal for: Users seeking a simple coffee maker.
A flexible option for coffee drinkers who want both single servings and full pots.
Coffee Makers Compared Side by Side
The comparison table below shows key features of each coffee maker. You can find details on capacity, brewing style, and special features. Look at the rows based on the best coffee maker for one person or the best value option.
| # | Product | Best for | Brand | Price | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | BLACK+DECKER 12-Cup Drip Coffee Maker with Vortex Brewing | Editor's Choice | BLACK+DECKER | $29.73 | Check |
| 2 | Ninja Fresh Brew Coffee Maker | Best for One Person | SharkNinja | $69.99 | Check |
| 3 | BLACK+DECKER 12-Cup Coffee Maker with Easy On/Off Switch | Best Lightweight | BLACK+DECKER | $24.99 | Check |
| 4 | Keurig K-Duo Hot & Iced Single Serve & Carafe Coffee Maker | Best for Daily Use | Keurig | $189.99 | Check |
| 5 | BLACK+DECKER 12 Cup Thermal Programmable Coffee Maker… | Best for Small Spaces | BLACK+DECKER | $53.99 | Check |
| 6 | Mr. Coffee Black Coffee Maker | Best Budget | Mr. Coffee | $33.99 | Check |
| 7 | Elite Gourmet EHC4128 Automatic 4-Cup Drip Coffee Maker | Best Heavy-Duty | Elite Gourmet | $15.99 | Check |
| 8 | Hamilton Beach 2-Way Brewer Coffee Maker | Runner-Up | Hamilton Beach | $88.99 | Check |
| 9 | Keurig K-Mini Mate Single Serve K-Cup Pod Coffee Maker | — | Keurig Dr Pepper | $49.99 | Check |
| 10 | Keurig K-Supreme Single Serve K-Cup Pod Coffee Maker | — | Keurig | $99.99 | Check |
Prices come from Amazon and change often. The price on Amazon at checkout is the one that applies.
How We Reviewed
Where our data comes from
Our data comes from reliable online sources, including product listings and expert reviews. We looked at major retailers and manufacturer websites to gather detailed information. This ensures that the data reflects what is currently available.
How we built this shortlist
To create this shortlist, we analyzed over 30 coffee makers focusing on features relevant to single users. We looked for models that are compact and easy to use, narrowing down the list based on capacity and customer reviews. Each pick has specific features that cater to individuals.
What we ruled out and why
We ruled out coffee makers that lacked essential features for single users. Models without clear brewing capacities or those that received poor customer feedback were not included. Our focus was on products that have been well-reviewed for reliability and ease of use.
What we did not do
No hands-on testing or lab measurements were conducted for this article. We did not create any scores or rankings. Our analysis is based solely on researched data from credible sources and user experiences.
How often this page is updated
This page will be updated regularly to reflect new products and any changes in specifications. Expect updates at least every three months. This ensures that you have the most current information when shopping.
How to Choose Coffee Makers
Consider Your Daily Coffee Intake
Think about how much coffee you drink daily. If you only need one or two cups, a smaller model like a 4-cup maker is suitable. For those who enjoy several cups throughout the day, consider a larger 12-cup coffee maker.
Look for Brewing Features
Different coffee makers have various brewing features. Some offer options for rich or classic brews. These features can enhance the flavor of your coffee. Choosing a maker with these options helps you customize your brew.
Check the Carafe Material
Carafes can be glass or thermal. Glass carafes are easy to clean but may break. Thermal carafes keep coffee hot longer without heat plates. Choose based on your preference for convenience or heat retention.
Evaluate Size and Counter Space
Consider how much space you have in your kitchen. Some coffee makers are bulky and take up a lot of counter space. Compact models are great for smaller areas but still provide enough coffee per brew.
Assess Brewing Speed
Brewing speed is important if you want coffee quickly. Some models brew a pot in minutes, while others take longer. If you’re in a rush each morning, look for models that prioritize quick brewing.
What to look for
Capacity
Capacity is key for choosing a coffee maker. For one person, a model with a smaller carafe, like a 4-cup option, can provide enough coffee for daily use. Larger models can brew up to 12 cups but may lead to waste if you don’t drink that much.
Brewing Technology
Brewing technology impacts flavor and temperature. Features like Vortex Technology or MultiStream Technology can improve extraction. This means better flavor from the coffee grounds, making your daily cup taste better.
Ease of Cleaning
Cleaning your coffee maker should be simple. Look for models with removable filters and carafes. These features make it easier to keep your machine in good shape and your coffee tasting fresh.
Programmable Features
Programmable features can enhance convenience. Many coffee makers allow you to set a timer. This means you can wake up to freshly brewed coffee without needing to turn the machine on yourself.
Special Features
Some coffee makers offer unique features. For example, a ‘sneak-a-cup’ option lets you pour a cup before brewing finishes. Assess these extras based on your personal habits and preferences.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best coffee maker for one person?
The best coffee maker for one person is the BLACK+DECKER 12-Cup Drip Coffee Maker. It offers a durable carafe and convenient features.
How many cups can a single-serve coffee maker brew?
A single-serve coffee maker typically brews one cup at a time. This is perfect for individual use.
Are thermal carafes better than glass carafes?
Thermal carafes keep coffee hot longer without needing a warming plate. They are also less likely to break compared to glass.
Can I brew iced coffee with these machines?
Yes, some coffee makers, like the Keurig K-Duo, can brew hot coffee and iced coffee. Look for models with this capability.
What features to look for in a coffee maker for one person?
Look for capacity, brewing speed, and ease of cleaning. Features like programmability can also add convenience.
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