What's The Fuss About Single Serve Coffee Maker? Single Serve Coffee Makers Comparison

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

Coffee drinkers who value customization will likely want an appliance that can make a full pot of espresso-style drip coffee or drip shots. These machines are also designed to lessen the environmental impact caused by disposable coffee pods. They use recyclable or reusable capsules.

1. Keurig K-Elite

The K-Elite is a stunning machine that combines premium finishes and programmable features. It's one the most versatile Keurigs in terms of the kinds of beverages it can be brewed withit can be used with K-Cups as well as ground coffee, hot chocolate or tea. The large, removable 72-ounce tank can produce up to seven medium-sized cups before requiring refills. It also works with reusable K-Cups, which will save you money over the course of time.

It's simple to use, even when it has more buttons than any other Keurig. The top control panel contains the power button as well as a settings button. It also has up and down buttons to navigate the menu. There are four different brew size buttons, an "iced button" and a "strong button" as well as a button for hot water. A large LCD display with color coded colors makes it easy to see when the machine needs a descale or refill.

The K-Elite is, despite being one of our favorite Keurigs however, it has some disadvantages. For example, it can be difficult to clean because it doesn't come with an adjustable drip tray, and the lid isn't secured. The spout also can result in splatters when you use smaller travel cups.

In our Coffee Makers Test Program we also tested the K-Elite and found it to perform well in all categories. It scored above average for first-cup speed, temperature consistency and repeat speed.

It was also one of the fastest ways to heat water and make a cup, and it was the least likely to create grounds in your coffee. However, the K-Elite was not able to create as hot of a cup as our other top models. In addition the iced version was less tasty than the stronger cup. However, the K-Elite is a great option for anyone looking for the convenience of one-serve coffee makers. It is available from numerous retailers, including Keurig, Amazon, Walmart, and Wayfair. It's priced around $150. The K-Classic model is also an option if need a lower-cost model. It's a bit more expensive than the Elite but not as much as some of our top selections.

2. Black+Decker Single-Serve Espresso Maker

A single-serve machine enables you to prepare coffee quickly and at any time. These machines are smaller and compact than drip models which makes them a great option for small kitchens or dorm rooms. They can also be used to prepare a variety of different coffee drinks, including espresso-style shots and lattes. They are also simple to clean and operate, making them a great option for busy households.

The BLACK+DECKER CM618 may be among the most affordable models available, however it comes with a few key features which make it worth a look. It comes with a permanent filter that can be used with ground coffee or soft coffee pods. It also comes with an automatic shut-off feature that helps conserve energy and water. It takes only minutes to make a single cup of coffee. The machine comes with a thermal travel mug that can be inserted into cup holders in cars.

In our tests, the BLACK+DECKER was able to make a delicious pot of coffee in less than half the time it took the average model we tested in our lab. It also comes with programming options that are typically reserved for brewers with higher prices including an automatic start.

Its retro-styled design is ideal for those who want to coordinate their kitchen appliances. Its light construction and tank that can be removed makes it easy to transport. It was surprisingly user-friendly with a touch-screen control panel that was intuitive and an interface that anyone could be able to comprehend. However, the brew speed was not the best in our tests, and it was not capable of reaching 195 degrees F for more than five or six minutes, which is the industry standard for the best flavor. The brew temperatures were also higher than the other models we test which could result in overheated coffee or burnt grounds. Despite these concerns, the CM618 remains a great choice for those on a tight budget who want to make brews using K-Cup pods as well as their own ground coffee.

3. Nespresso Vertuo Single-Serve Coffee Maker

Nespresso machines are different from K-Cup and Keurig machines as they only use the brand's own espresso and coffee pods. The brand separates its pod-based machines into two categories: VertuoLine and Original. Original machines brew espresso-based drinks, whereas VertuoLine models are designed to make larger milk and coffee recipes such as cappuccinos and lattes. Original machines are more expensive than VertuoLine because they are specifically designed to work with Nespresso capsules that can be reused and reused.

The VertuoLine XP371 Nespresso offers four different sizes of drinks and smart capsule detection technology and the company's signature centrifusion brewing method. It features a modern and sleek design, and comes with a removable 37-ounce water tank. It is simple to use and comes with an automated system that lets pods empty in a container built inside the machine. It takes between 15 and 20 seconds to heat up and shuts down automatically after nine minutes.

In our tests, the XP371 made an excellent cup of coffee. It had a nice crema and was hot enough to drink in the morning without having to worry about burning your tongue. However, it was slower than other models to prepare. It took 1 minute and 51 secs to make 7,7 ounces, which is the third slowest of all the models we tested. This isn't a deal-breaker but it could be a problem if you're familiar with quick morning coffee making.

Overall, the NespressoXP371 is a fantastic option for coffee and espresso lovers who are looking to reduce waste. Its design is more luxurious than other pod brewers. It is also compatible with Nespresso capsules that are more eco-friendly. However the VertuoLine XP371's pricey cost and dependence on proprietary capsules could be a nagging issue for buyers who are interested in buying.

If single coffee brewer to buy the best single-serve pod maker but are still in love with the convenience of one-serve machines we suggest you check out our top reusable cups review. You can also try one of our favorite tumblers with insulation to keep your tea or coffee warm.

4. Cuisinart DCC-1200

This coffee maker has received thousands of favorable reviews from its users and comes with a variety of convenient features that many other models don't have. The price is very reasonable for a machine of its quality and has an elegant design. Some owners have complained that this model is a fire hazard. This is something to keep in mind before buying.


This fully automatic coffeemaker can be programmed to run for 24 hours. You can configure it to make four cups or 12 at the same time, or one cup or four cups. The carafe is a thermal one and the permanent gold tone filter with wire mesh and charcoal water filter remove impurities to enhance the flavor of your brew. There is a 30 second "Brew Pause" feature that will stop the brewing process so you can make a cup, and the self-cleaning function helps keep the tank clean.

The controls are well-spaced and clearly identified. You can quickly identify what each button does. Other features include an automatic shutoff and a dripless spout with Knuckleguard. This coffee maker is easy to use and has stunning brushed stainless finishes.

Some buyers have reported that the permanent gold toned wire mesh filter is difficult to clean. This may be an issue for those who prefer paper filters. Additionally, some have complained that they are unable to get the reservoir to fill correctly 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.

A few people have also complained that their Cuisinart coffee maker spits coffee grounds and water everywhere when it is in operation but this appears to be a rare occurrence. In all likelihood, this is a top-quality coffee maker that is worth checking out if you are looking for a basic model that has plenty of convenient features at a reasonable cost.