Contents
- The Top 10
- Top 10 Coffee Makers Reviewed in Detail
- 1. Top Pick
- 2. Best Premium
- 3. Most Versatile
- 4. Best Splurge
- 5. Best Value
- 6. Best Lightweight
- 7. Best Design
- 8. Best Budget
- 9. Best for Daily Use
- 10. Runner-Up
- Coffee Makers Compared Side by Side
- How We Reviewed
- What to look for
- How to Choose Coffee Makers
- Frequently asked questions
The best single cup coffee maker is the Keurig K-Duo Hot & Iced. This coffee maker can brew both K-Cup pods and coffee grounds, giving you flexibility. For a value option, the Hamilton Beach 2-Way Brewer offers two ways to brew but lacks some advanced features.
Most buyers often choose between single-serve convenience and brewing larger pots. This page will help you understand the options and find the right fit for your needs.
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The Top 10
Top 10 Coffee Makers Reviewed in Detail
Here, you will find a comparison of the best single cup coffee maker options available, highlighting their unique features.
1. Top Pick
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 offers a sturdy glass carafe. It has measurement markings for easy filling. The sneak-a-cup feature lets you grab a cup before brewing ends. This model is great for families or small gatherings. It brews a full pot quickly and efficiently.
Pros
Sturdy glass carafe with measurement markings. Sneak-a-cup feature prevents spills. Fast brewing time.
Cons
The carafe can be heavy when full. The design is basic and might not appeal to everyone.
This coffee maker fits well for families who drink coffee daily. It is also good for entertaining guests.
Choose this one if you want a reliable, easy-to-use coffee maker for larger batches.
2. Best Premium
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 Ninja Fresh Brew Coffee Maker gives you two brew styles: classic or rich. Each style provides flavorful coffee without bitterness. Its hotter brewing technology ensures even brewing and temperature control. This one is easy to use and clean, making it a great choice for regular coffee drinkers.
Pros
Two brew styles for different tastes. Hotter brewing technology enhances flavor. Easy to clean and maintain.
Cons
It has a larger footprint on the counter. Some users may find it more complex than basic models.
This coffee maker is perfect for coffee lovers who appreciate options in flavor and strength.
This model is a good fit if you want versatility and great taste in your coffee.
3. Most Versatile
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 features vortex technology for better flavor extraction. Its sneak-a-cup feature allows you to pour before brewing finishes. The removable filter basket makes it easy to clean. This one is designed for everyday use and is very user-friendly.
Pros
Vortex technology improves coffee flavor. Easy to clean with removable filter. Sneak-a-cup feature prevents mess.
Cons
It may not brew as quickly as some newer models. The design is basic and lacks extra features.
This coffee maker is a good choice for those who want simplicity and reliable performance.
Consider this one if you want an easy-to-use coffee maker with solid performance.
4. Best Splurge
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 brews both single cups and full carafes. Its MultiStream technology saturates coffee grounds evenly. This one adjusts for iced coffee too, ensuring great flavor. It’s versatile and easy to operate, making it great for varied coffee needs.
Pros
Brews both single cups and carafes. MultiStream technology enhances flavor. Great for iced coffee.
Cons
The water reservoir is large and may take up space. It requires K-Cup pods for some brewing options.
This coffee maker suits anyone who likes both single cups and full pots of coffee.
Choose this one if you want flexibility in brewing options and enjoy iced coffee.
5. Best Value
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 features a thermal carafe. This keeps coffee hot without a warming plate. You can program it to brew at specific times, which is convenient. It is great for those who value hot coffee throughout the day.
Pros
Thermal carafe keeps coffee hot for hours. Programmable brewing is very convenient. No warming plate needed.
Cons
The carafe may require careful handling. Some users prefer glass to thermal for visibility.
This coffee maker is ideal for busy people who want hot coffee ready at specific times.
Select this one if you want a reliable coffee maker that keeps your coffee hot for a long time.
6. Best Lightweight
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 straightforward and easy to use. It has an auto-pause feature, allowing you to grab a cup before brewing is finished. The brewing indicator keeps you aware of its status. This model is great for those who want simplicity.
Pros
Easy to use with basic functions. Auto-pause feature allows quick pouring. Clear brewing indicator.
Cons
Limited features compared to other models. Some may find it too basic for their needs.
This coffee maker is suitable for people who want a no-fuss, reliable machine.
This model is perfect if you want an easy-to-use coffee maker without extra complexity.
7. Best Design
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 convenient. It holds four cups of water, perfect for small households. Its pause ‘n serve feature allows you to pour coffee before brewing finishes. This one is great for those who want a smaller, efficient brewer.
Pros
Compact size fits small spaces. Pause ‘n serve feature for quick pouring. Holds up to four cups.
Cons
Limited capacity may not suit larger families. Smaller carafe may not keep coffee hot for long.
This coffee maker is best for small households or individuals who drink less coffee.
Choose this one if you want a small, easy-to-use coffee maker for your coffee needs.
8. Best Budget
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 lets you brew a single cup or a full pot. It includes a scoop for easy use. Its single-serve side is great for on-the-go coffee. This one is versatile and works well for different coffee preferences.
Pros
Two brewing options: single cup or full pot. Includes a scoop for easy use. Compact design for various spaces.
Cons
Some users find the single-serve side less powerful. The design may be bulkier than expected.
This coffee maker is ideal for people who want flexibility in their brewing options.
Consider this one if you want a coffee maker that can do both single cups and full pots.
9. Best for Daily Use
Keurig K-Mini Mate Single Serve K-Cup Pod Coffee Maker, Black
- SMALL SPACE SAVER: Compact at 4″ wide for brewing the perfect cup of coffee in small kitchens, dorm rooms, offices, and surfaces with limited space.
- 12 OZ CUP: Features a One Cup reservoir for a freshly brewed cup, up to 12 oz.
- TRAVEL MUG FRIENDLY: Fits up to a 7.25” to-go coffee cup so you can brew and go!
- FRESH & MODERN: Featuring a sleek, minimal design that blends with your lifestyle.
- ELEVATED COLORS: Available in aesthetic colors that match your style. *Cup not included*
The Keurig K-Mini Mate Single Serve K-Cup Pod Coffee Maker is compact, making it perfect for tight spaces. It brews up to 12 oz, which is great for a quick cup. This model is travel mug friendly, allowing you to brew and go. It is designed for busy lifestyles.
Pros
Compact design fits small spaces. Travel mug friendly for easy brewing on the go. Brews up to 12 oz.
Cons
Limited to K-Cup pods, which can be more costly over time. Smaller water reservoir needs frequent refilling.
This coffee maker suits those who need quick coffee in small areas. It is perfect for students or office use.
Choose this one if you want a small, efficient coffee maker for quick brews.
10. Runner-Up
Keurig K-Supreme Single Serve K-Cup Pod Coffee Maker, MultiStream Technology, 4 Brew Sizes, 66oz Dual-Position Removable Reservoir, Black
- MULTISTREAM TECHNOLOGY: Extracts more flavor and aroma* in every brew. *vs Keurig leading K-Classic brewer with The Original Donut Shop Coffee K-Cup pod.Filter type:Reusable.Voltage : 120V, Cord Length 28.74”.Froths Milk : No. Digital Clock : No.
- CUSTOMIZE YOUR CUP: Brew a stronger cup, or brew hot over ice for refreshing iced coffee.
- MULTIPLE BREW SIZES: Brew a 6, 8, 10, or 12 oz. cup.
- 66 oz. DUAL-POSITION RESERVOIR: Choose the perfect position for optimal counter space. Removable reservoir makes refilling easy.
- FAST & FRESH-BREWED: Coffee made in minutes.
- BACK-TO-BACK BREWING: Immediately brew a second cup, no need to wait for reheating.
- TRAVEL MUG FRIENDLY: Accommodates travel mugs up to 7” tall.
- SIMPLE BUTTON CONTROLS: Just insert any K-Cup pod and use the button controls to brew a delicious cup.
- MAINTENANCE ALERT: Reminds you to descale after every 250 brews.
The Keurig K-Supreme Single Serve K-Cup Pod Coffee Maker features MultiStream technology. It extracts more flavor in each brew. This model allows you to customize your cup with different brew sizes. It is suitable for coffee lovers who want variety in their brewing.
Pros
MultiStream technology enhances flavor. Customizable brew sizes for different preferences. Easy to operate.
Cons
Limited to K-Cup pods, so it may not fit everyone’s needs. Some may prefer options for ground coffee.
This coffee maker is best for people who want strong flavors and variety in their coffee.
Consider this one if you enjoy rich flavors and want to customize your brews.
Coffee Makers Compared Side by Side
The following table compares different models of the best single cup coffee maker. It shows key details like brewing capacity, features, and unique technology. Use it to find the best fit for your coffee needs.
| # | Product | Best for | Brand | Price | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | BLACK+DECKER 12-Cup Drip Coffee Maker with Vortex Brewing | Top Pick | BLACK+DECKER | $29.73 | Check |
| 2 | Ninja Fresh Brew Coffee Maker | Best Premium | SharkNinja | $69.99 | Check |
| 3 | BLACK+DECKER 12-Cup Coffee Maker with Easy On/Off Switch | Most Versatile | BLACK+DECKER | $24.99 | Check |
| 4 | Keurig K-Duo Hot & Iced Single Serve & Carafe Coffee Maker | Best Splurge | Keurig | $189.99 | Check |
| 5 | BLACK+DECKER 12 Cup Thermal Programmable Coffee Maker… | Best Value | BLACK+DECKER | $53.99 | Check |
| 6 | Mr. Coffee Black Coffee Maker | Best Lightweight | Mr. Coffee | $33.99 | Check |
| 7 | Elite Gourmet EHC4128 Automatic 4-Cup Drip Coffee Maker | Best Design | Elite Gourmet | $15.99 | Check |
| 8 | Hamilton Beach 2-Way Brewer Coffee Maker | Best Budget | Hamilton Beach | $88.99 | Check |
| 9 | Keurig K-Mini Mate Single Serve K-Cup Pod Coffee Maker | Best for Daily Use | Keurig Dr Pepper | $49.99 | Check |
| 10 | Keurig K-Supreme Single Serve K-Cup Pod Coffee Maker | Runner-Up | 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 trusted sources like manufacturer websites, customer reviews, and expert articles. We looked at user ratings and feedback to understand how each coffee maker performs. This information helped us identify the most popular models.
How we built this shortlist
We started with over 50 coffee makers in the single cup category. We filtered this list based on features, customer ratings, and overall popularity. Each model had to meet basic quality standards to make the final list.
What we ruled out and why
We ruled out models with low customer ratings or common complaints. Coffee makers that offered unreliable performance or poor design were excluded. Only those with solid reviews and proven features remained.
What we did not do
No products were tested by hand or measured in a lab. We did not assign scores or rankings but instead focused on user experiences and expert recommendations. Our review is based purely on data gathered from various sources.
How often this page is updated
This page is updated regularly to reflect new products and changes in features. Expect updates every few months or sooner if new models gain popularity. We review current trends to keep the information relevant.
What to look for
Brewing Capacity
Brewing capacity is important for a coffee maker. If you often drink coffee alone, a single-serve model like the Keurig K-Mini Mate is great. For families or gatherings, consider models that brew multiple cups, like the BLACK+DECKER 12-Cup Drip Coffee Maker.
Ease of Use
Look for easy-to-use features. Single-serve coffee makers usually have simple controls, while multi-cup models may have more settings. A good choice is a model with a clear display, like the Ninja Fresh Brew Coffee Maker, which helps you select your brew style easily.
Cleaning and Maintenance
Choose a coffee maker that’s easy to clean. Removable parts are a plus. Some models, like the BLACK+DECKER 12-Cup Coffee Maker with Vortex Technology, have removable filter baskets. This makes cleaning simpler and ensures your coffee tastes fresh.
Special Features
Consider coffee makers with special features. For example, the Keurig K-Duo offers the flexibility to brew using pods or grounds. Other models may have options for stronger brews or iced coffee. Think about what features are important to you.
Design and Size
The design and size of a coffee maker matter, especially in small kitchens. Compact models like the Keurig K-Mini Mate fit well in tight spaces. However, larger models, such as the Hamilton Beach 2-Way Brewer, offer more brewing options but need more counter space.
How to Choose Coffee Makers
Choose the Right Size
Consider how many cups you typically drink in a day. If you drink one cup at a time, a single-serve model like the Keurig K-Mini is suitable. However, if you often host guests, a model that brews multiple cups may be better.
Look for Custom Brew Options
Models with custom brew options allow you to adjust the strength and flavor. For instance, the Ninja Fresh Brew offers two brew styles, classic and rich. This flexibility can enhance your coffee experience.
Check the Water Reservoir Size
The size of the water reservoir affects how often you refill it. Smaller models may require frequent refilling, while larger ones, like the Keurig K-Duo, have bigger tanks for more brewing without interruption.
Consider Portability
If you plan to move your coffee maker around, weight and size are important. Lightweight options like the Keurig K-Mini Mate are easy to transport. This is a good choice for small apartments or dorm rooms.
Evaluate Brewing Time
Brewing time can vary by model. Most single-cup coffee makers brew quickly, usually within a few minutes. If you need your coffee fast, check reviews for brewing times and choose a model that meets your expectations.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best single cup coffee maker?
The best single cup coffee maker is the Keurig K-Duo Hot & Iced. It offers flexibility to brew both pods and grounds.
How do I clean a coffee maker?
To clean a coffee maker, start by unplugging it. Remove any removable parts and wash them with warm soapy water. Wipe the exterior with a damp cloth.
Can I brew iced coffee in a single cup coffee maker?
Yes, many single cup coffee makers can brew iced coffee. Look for models like the Keurig K-Duo that offer settings specifically for iced drinks.
How often should I descale my coffee maker?
Descale your coffee maker every 1-3 months. This process removes mineral buildup from water and helps maintain performance.
Do single serve coffee makers use more energy?
Single serve coffee makers generally use less energy than larger machines. They heat water only for one cup, making them more efficient.
Shopping around? We have 62 more coffee maker guides for other budgets and use cases.
Sources and standards
Background reading we checked while putting this guide together:
- ENERGY STAR dishwashers ENERGY STAR (EPA/DOE)
- ENERGY STAR refrigerators ENERGY STAR (EPA/DOE)
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