Single Serve Coffee Makers Comparison

Single-serve coffee makers are convenient for quick cups of cold or hot coffee. They can use pre-packaged coffee pods or filters that are filled with ground beans.

Coffee drinkers who value personalization will likely need a machine that can make an entire pot of espresso-style drip coffee or drip shots. These machines are also designed to lessen the environmental impact of disposable coffee pods. They make use of capsules that are recyclable or reusable.

1. Keurig K-Elite

The K-Elite is a gorgeous design that combines premium finishes with programming capabilities. 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, removable 72-ounce tank can produce up to seven medium-sized cups before requiring a refill. It's also compatible with reuseable K-Cup pods, which can save you money over the long term.

Despite having way more buttons on the control panel than other Keurig model, it's easy to navigate and operate. The top control panel includes a power button and settings button. It also has buttons for up and down to navigate the menu. There are also four different brew size buttons and an "iced button" as well as an "iced button", a "strong button" as well as an option for hot water. A large LCD display with color coded colors makes it easy to determine when the machine requires a descale or refill.

The K-Elite is, despite being one of our top Keurigs, does have some drawbacks. It isn't easy for example to clean since it does not have a drip tray with a removable lid and the lid isn't secured. The spout also can cause splatters when using smaller travel cups.

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

It was also the quickest to boil the water before brewing the cup. It was also the least likely machine to make grounds. The K-Elite could not make a cup that was hotter than some of our top models. The iced coffee also was less savory than its robust brew. Nevertheless, the K-Elite is a fantastic choice for anyone who wants the convenience of one-serve coffee makers. It is available from many retailers including Keurig, Amazon, Walmart and Wayfair. It's priced about $150. The K-Classic model is an option if want a more affordable model. It costs a bit more than the Elite but isn't as costly as some of our other top picks.

2. Single-Serve Espresso Maker Black+Decker

A single-serve machine enables you to make coffee quickly and at any time. These machines are smaller, less bulky and perfect for small kitchens or dorms. They can also make a variety coffee drinks, including espresso shots and lattes. They are also easy to clean and operate and are a great choice for busy families.

The BLACK+DECKER CM618 might be one of the cheapest models on the market but it has some important attributes that are worth looking into. It has a permanent filter that works with ground coffee as well as soft coffee pods. It also has an automatic shut-off function to conserve energy and water. It takes just minutes to prepare a single brew coffee cup of coffee. The machine comes with a thermal travel cup that can be inserted into cup holders in cars.

In our tests, we discovered that the BLACK+DECKER could produce a delicious cup of coffee in less than half the amount of time required to make the average model. It also has functions that are normally reserved for higher-end brewers, such as an automatic start.

Its retro-styled design is ideal for those who want to match their kitchen appliances. Its lightweight construction and removable tank makes it easy to carry. Our testers found it relatively simple to operate and operated with a user-friendly digital control panel and menu that was easy to follow even for those without prior experience using a single-serve coffee machine. The brew time we measured in our tests was moderate, and the machine didn't attain 195degF in five or six minutes which is the industry standard for maximum flavor. The brew temperatures were also higher than other models we test and could result in burning or overheated coffee. However, despite these issues, the CM618 is an excellent option 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 differ from K-Cup and Keurig machines since they make use of their own coffee machine single cup pods. The brand separates its pod-based machines into two categories: Original and VertuoLine. Original machines brew espresso-based drinks, whereas VertuoLine models are designed to make larger coffee and milk recipes like lattes and cappuccinos. Because they're designed to be used in conjunction with Nespresso's recyclable and sustainable capsules, the Original machines tend to cost more than VertuoLine models.

The VertuoLine XP371 Nespresso comes with four different drink sizes and smart capsule detection and the centrifusion brewing method. It also has modern, sleek design and a water tank that is removable which holds 37 ounces water. The machine is simple to use and has an automated system that releases used pods into a built-in container. It takes between 15 and 20 seconds for the machine to warm up and then shuts down automatically after nine minutes.

In our tests, we discovered that the XP371 produced a great cup. It produced a good cup of coffee that had a nice crema. It was also hot enough to drink in the mornings without burning your tongue. It was slower to make than other models. It took 1 min and 51 secs to brew 7,7 ounces. This was 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 Nespresso XP371 is a fantastic choice for coffee and espresso enthusiasts who want to reduce waste. Its design is more luxurious than a typical pod brewer and it's compatible with Nespresso's reusable capsules, which are greener than K-Cups and other traditional pods on the market. The VertuoLine's cost and dependence on proprietary capsules may make some consumers turn away.

If you don't have the funds to buy a reputable pod coffee maker but would like to have the convenience of a single-serve machine then we recommend checking out our review of disposable cups. You can also use one of our preferred cups that are insulated to keep your coffee or tea warm.

4. Cuisinart DCC-1200

This coffee maker has received thousands of positive reviews from customers and has numerous features that many other models don't have. Its price tag is also affordable for a machine of its quality and has an elegant design. Some owners have reported that this model is dangerous to fire. This is something to be aware of before purchasing.

The fully automated coffeemaker can be programmed for up to all hours of the day. You can program it to brew four cups or 12 at each time, or just one cup or four cups. The carafe is a thermal one and the permanent gold-tone wire mesh filter and charcoal water filter eliminate impurities to enhance the flavor of your brew. The "Brew Pause", which will stop the brewing process for 30 seconds, allows you to pour one cup. The self-cleaning feature keeps the tank clean.

The controls on this coffee maker are evenly spaced and are clearly marked making it easy to determine what each button is at glance. Other features include an automatic shutoff, as well as an spout that is drip-free and has a knuckleguard. The coffee maker is very easy to use, and its stainless steel brushed finish is stunning on the counter.

Some buyers have complained that the permanent gold toned wire mesh filter is difficult to clean. This may be a problem for those who prefer to use paper filters. Some users have also reported that the reservoir doesn't fill correctly due to a flaw in the design that forces water into the filter through a tiny hole in the back of the machine.

Some people have complained that their Cuisinart Coffee Maker spews water and coffee grounds everywhere it is operating, but this is an uncommon occurrence. In any case, this is a great coffee maker worth a look if you are seeking a basic model that comes with a lot of convenience features at a reasonable price.