Got a hectic morning routine? Feeling like you can never find enough time to make an entire pot of coffee? If so, a single-cup drip coffee maker is exactly what you need!
Too often, I rush to work for an early morning meeting. However, I never ruin my day by leaving the house without my coffee. My home brewer has a single-cup option, so I can quickly and easily brew up a fresh cup of joe. It’s the perfect solution for busy mornings when I need my caffeine fix in haste!
I don’t own all the coffee machines on this list, but I’ve had my share of caffeine-fueled experiences with them! Each one has pros and cons, from the standard single-cup drip to the pod machine. Check out our list to find the best single cup drip coffee maker ideally suited to keep you caffeinated throughout the day.
Key features of single-cup drip coffee maker
If you’re looking for a single-serve drip coffee maker, there are a few key features to consider as per our expertise:
Cup size options
When shopping for a single-cup drip coffee maker, you should also consider the size of the cup or mug it can handle. Most machines are designed to accommodate standard-sized mugs between 6-14 ounces. However, some models may have a larger capacity, so check the specifications before purchasing.
Easy to use
Many people choose single-cup drip coffee makers because they are easy to use and require minimal effort. Just fill the water reservoir, place your ground coffee or K-Cup in the machine, press a button to start brewing, and then enjoy your freshly made beverage.
Water reservoir
When selecting a single cup drip coffee maker, look for one with a large water reservoir to avoid constantly refilling it. A higher capacity reservoir allows you to brew more coffee without filling the machine again. This is especially useful if you have more than one person in your household who likes to drink coffee.
Built quality
Make sure the machine is built to last. Look for a model made from high-quality materials with a good warranty. Stainless steel is the best material for a coffee maker as it won’t corrode or rust and is easy to clean.
Integrated water filter
Some single-cup drip coffee makers have an integrated water filter to ensure the best-tasting coffee. This is especially important if you live in a hard water area, as it will help remove impurities and minerals from your tap water. Coffee is over 99% water, so make sure that water is as pure as possible.
Brew options
If you like to mix up your coffee routine, look for a machine with multiple brew options. Some machines have a bold option, while others create delicious iced coffee. The more options you have, the more creative you can be with your daily caffeine fix.
Compatibility with coffee pods
Sometimes you don’t have time to grind your beans or measure out coffee grounds. If this is the case, make sure to find a machine that is compatible with K-cups and other coffee pods. This way, you can quickly and easily pop in a pod and instantly enjoy the perfect cup of joe.
Filter basket style
Consider the style of filter basket that comes with the machine. Some models have a permanent filter basket, while others require disposable paper filters. Permanent filters are easier to clean and more eco-friendly, but you may need to buy special replacement parts if they break. On the other hand, disposable paper filters are better for keeping the sludge out of your cup.
Cleanup and maintenance
It would be best to look for a machine that is easy to clean and maintain. Check the user manual to see what cleaning and maintenance routine it requires. Most machines need some regular descaling, but you’ll want to make sure you know how often this needs to be
Size
Do you live in a mansion or a downtown studio apartment? The size of the machine is necessary to consider. If you have limited counter space, look for a compact model that only takes up a little room. Larger models may offer more features and capacities but require more kitchen space.
Auto shut-off
We all forget from time to time. So make sure to get a machine with an auto shut-off feature. This will ensure you don’t accidentally leave it on and waste energy or burn out the parts.
Delay brew
Do you love waking up to the smell of freshly brewed coffee? If so, look for a machine with a delay brew feature. This way, you can program your machine to start brewing coffee at a specific time each morning, so it’s ready when you wake up.
Price
Finally, consider your budget when shopping for a single cup drip coffee maker. A wide range of machines are available at various price points, so you should be able to find one that fits your needs without breaking the bank. Shop around and compare features and prices to get the best deal.
Our picks for the best single cup drip coffee makers
Let’s get back to the reason you landed here in the first place: finding a great single cup drip coffee maker.
1. Cuisinart Single Serve Coffee Maker
Benefits:
- Fully programmable
- Removable 72-ounce water reservoir
- Built-in water filter
- Auto-off feature
- Cup size from 4 – 12 ounces
If you’re looking for the best single serve coffee maker, look no further than the Cuisinart Single-Serve Coffee Maker. This fully programmable and versatile home-brewing unit is ideal for both personal use and entertaining guests. It has a 72 oz. capacity and features a removable reservoir, built-in water filter, removable drip tray, auto-off, and programmability.
The Cuisinart Single Serve Coffee Maker is one of the top-rated single serve coffee makers today. Consumer Reports gave it a convenience rating of Excellent, making it one of their top picks for Keurig K-Cup brewers. Other reviewers also gave it high marks in terms of value, calling it one of their favorite single-serve machines.
Whether you’re looking for a great cup of coffee to start your day or an easy way to entertain guests, the Cuisinart Single Serve Coffee Maker is sure to please. With its convenient features and excellent ratings from experts, you can be sure that this machine will always provide you with delicious coffee!
Read our full review of the Cuisinart Single-Serve coffee maker here.
2. Mr. Coffee Iced and Hot Single Serve Coffee Maker
Benefits:
- Brews both hot and iced coffee
- Reusable tumbler and filter included
- Compatible with ground coffee or single-serve pods
- Brews in under four minutes
- Classic sleek black design
Are you looking for the perfect single serve coffee maker to accommodate a divided household? Look no further than the Mr. Coffee Iced and Hot Single Serve Coffee Maker! This fantastic machine is designed to make hot and iced coffee, so everyone in your household can enjoy their favorite libation.
With the press of a button, you can easily brew flavorful iced coffee or bold, pod-free hot coffee in under four minutes. Plus, it comes with a reusable tumbler and filter, so you don’t have to worry about running out of supplies.
The Mr. Coffee Iced and Hot Single Serve Coffee Maker is also incredibly versatile. You can use it with ground coffee or single-serve pods, giving you plenty of options. And with its sleek black design, this machine looks great on any kitchen countertop.
3. Instant Solo Single Serve Coffee Maker
Benefits:
- Automatically selects the optimum brew temperature and pressure
- Compatible with K-Cup pods and ground coffee
- Part of the Instant Pot family of products
- Fast brewing time
- 40-ounce water reservoir for fewer refills throughout the day
The Instant Solo Single Serve Coffee Maker is the perfect addition to any kitchen. Its simple operation and easy maintenance make it an ideal choice for anyone looking for a great cup of coffee in no time.
This coffee maker automatically selects the optimum brew temperature and pressure, ensuring you get a delicious cup of coffee every time. Plus, it can handle both K-Cup pods and your favorite fresh ground coffee, giving you more options for brewing.
What makes this device even better is that it is part of the Instant Pot family of outstanding and reliable products. With this single serve coffee maker, you can enjoy fast brewing times, precise temperature control, and more. Plus, its 40-ounce water reservoir ensures you won’t have to constantly refill it throughout the day.
4. Hamilton Beach The Scoop Single Serve Coffee Maker
Benefits:
- Steel mesh combined scoop and filter easy measuring
- Built-in, adjustable stand flips to accommodate a standard cup or travel mug
- Two brew sizes: 8 and 14 ounce
- Removable water reservoir for easy filling
- Sleek stainless steel design perfect
- Regular and bold brew options
If you’re looking for a convenient way to enjoy your favorite coffee, look no further than the Hamilton Beach The Scoop Single Serve Coffee Maker. This single serve coffee maker allows you to make bold and regular-brew coffee with a simple button press. It features a steel mesh scoop for filtering freshly ground beans and comes with a built-in, adjustable stand that flips to accommodate a standard-size cup or travel mug.
The mesh filter doubles as a scoop, so measuring and pouring coffee into the machine is unnecessary. Plus, with two brew sizes, you can whip up an eight-ounce cup of coffee in a minute and a half or a 14-ounce travel mug in two minutes.
The Hamilton Beach Single Serve Scoop Coffeemaker is also incredibly easy to use. Just fill the removable reservoir with water, scoop your favorite ground coffee, select your desired brew size, and press the start button.
With its sleek stainless steel design and easy operation, the Hamilton Beach The Scoop Single Serve Coffee Maker is great for any small kitchen or office space.
5. BLACK and DECKER Single Serve Coffee Maker
Benefits:
- Brews a single cup of coffee in about 2 minutes
- One-touch operation for convenience
- Self-contained water reservoir
- Removable mesh filter basket for hassle-free cleaning
- Coffee grounds or pre-packaged pods can be used
- Included thermal mug fits most car cup holders
If you’re looking for a reliable and convenient way to make your morning cup of joe, the BLACK+DECKER Single-Serve Coffee Maker is an excellent choice. This coffee maker is ideal for an active, on-the-go lifestyle.
It can brew directly into the 16-ounce thermal mug, which fits most car cup holders, so you can take it anywhere. Plus, it’s easy to use – add coffee grounds or pre-packaged coffee pods and press the button to get your coffee fast!
The machine has a one-touch operation and can brew one cup of coffee in about 2 minutes. With its self-contained water reservoir and removable mesh filter basket, this single-serve coffee maker will make your mornings effortless and enjoyable.
6. Keurig K-Supreme Plus
Benefits:
- MultiStream technology ensures perfect extraction and strength
- Slim profile and stylish design
- Customizable options for stronger brews or iced drinks
- Programmable settings to automatically start brewing
- Compatible with K-Cup pods or reusable filter pod
I’m absolutely in love with my Keurig K-Supreme Plus coffee maker! It’s the perfect way to make a delicious cup of coffee every morning. The MultiStream Technology ensures that the K-cup pod is evenly saturated for perfect extraction and strength every time. It has a slim profile and stylish design that looks great on my countertop.
The K-Supreme Plus also offers customizable options. You can brew a more robust bold cup or an over-ice coffee for a refreshing cold drink. And with its programmable settings, It can be programmed to automatically start brewing at a specific time each day and wake you up to the smell of coffee.
Overall, the Keurig K-Supreme Plus is our list’s best pod coffee maker. I recommend this coffee machine to anyone looking for an easy and convenient way to make delicious coffee daily.
7. Chefman Single Serve Coffee Maker
Benefits:
- Ultra slim design to fit in tight spaces
- InstaCoffee technology for fresh coffee in 30 seconds
- Compatible with K-Cups and reusable mesh filter
- Single push to start function
- Auto shut off for safety and energy efficiency
This ultra-slim brewer is designed to fit in even the tightest of spaces, yet it still packs a punch when it comes to flavor. With the InstaCoffee Single-Serve Coffee Maker, you can make fresh coffee in 30 seconds. Just pour, push, and go.
It’s compatible with K-Cups and comes with a reusable mesh filter for fresh ground coffee. Coffee-making gets easier with a single push to start function. Plus, it has an auto shut-off feature for safety and energy efficiency.
8. KRUPS Simply Brew to Go Single Serve Drip Coffee Maker
Benefits:
- Brew up to 14oz in single serve
- Permanent coffee filter basket
- Stainless steel travel tumbler included
- Adjustable keep warm settings
Are you seeking a reliable coffee maker to make your morning routine a breeze? Check out the KRUPS Simply Brew to Go Single Serve Drip Coffee Maker! This fantastic machine is designed to brew single-serve coffee with just the push of a button. No pods or filter changes are needed – pour in your ground coffee and enjoy your favorite brew.
It has a permanent coffee filter basket for up to 14oz of each brew. This fantastic machine also comes with a stainless steel travel tumbler, so you have everything you need to take your favorite cup of joe on the go. The tumbler is 12 fluid ounces and fits perfectly in most cup holders, making it ideal for commuting or running errands.
Overall, the KRUPS Simply Brew to Go Single Serve Drip Coffee Maker is reliable and convenient. This machine will ensure you start your day right with its easy-to-use design and features like adjustable keep-warm temperature settings and stainless steel travel tumbler!
9. SPINN Coffee Maker Pro
Benefits:
- Fresh coffee bean system eliminates the need for wasteful pods
- Centrifugal technology for better brewing
- Built-in grinder for customizing your brew
- Includes water filter
The SPINN Coffee Maker Pro is the next evolution of fresh single serve coffee making at home. This revolutionary machine uses centrifugal technology to brew any drink in just 60 seconds, giving you the ultimate convenience and great-tasting coffee fast.
With its patented centrifuge brewing chamber, the SPINN Coffee Maker spins your coffee grounds up to 6000RPM, extracting more flavor and aroma than traditional methods like drip or French press. Plus, it’s energy-efficient and only requires you to tap a few buttons to get your perfect cup.
The built-in grinder and water filter make it easy to customize your brew for maximum flavor, while its bean-based system eliminates the need for wasteful pods.
10. Ninja CFP201 DualBrew System
Benefits:
- Brews both coffee grounds and coffee pods
- Makes hot and cold coffee
- Programmable timer for keeping warm up to 4 hours
- Adjustable temperature settings for customizing brews
- Specialty drink setting for espresso or latte drinks
The Ninja CFP201 DualBrew System is one of my all-time favorite brewing machines for single serve coffee. It’s an incredibly versatile machine that can make classic, rich, and over-ice brews from either coffee grounds or coffee pods. With its 60-ounce water reservoir and carafe, you can make up to 12 cups of coffee. Plus, the programmable timer lets you decide how long your pot will stay warm for up to 4 hours.
What really sets this machine apart is its ability to make specialty brews. Whether you’re looking for a bold espresso or a creamy latte, the Ninja CFP201 DualBrew System has you covered. The adjustable temperature settings let you customize your brew to get the perfect cup every time.
While the Ninja can also brew a full carafe, I still recommend it for those looking for a single serve machine. With its hot and cold brewing capabilities and specialty brews, this machine is sure to satisfy all your coffee needs and more!
Read our full review of the Ninja DualBRew Coffee System here!
Frequently Asked Questions
Are single cup drip coffee makers easy to use?
Yes, single cup drip coffee makers are designed to be easy to use. Most models come with a user manual explaining the machine’s setup and operation. Additionally, many models feature one-touch brewing for added convenience.
Can I adjust the strength of my coffee when using a single cup drip coffee maker?
Yes, many single cup drip coffee makers allow you to adjust the strength of your coffee by changing the amount of water used in each brew cycle. This is usually done by adjusting a dial or knob on the machine itself.
Do all single serve coffee makers require special filters?
No, not all single cup drip coffee makers require special filters. Some models are designed to work with standard paper filters, while others may have a reusable filter system built into the machine. Pod machines don’t require filters at all!
What beverages can I make with a single cup drip coffee maker?
Single cup drip coffee makers can make various hot and cold drinks, including regular and specialty coffees, teas, lattes, cappuccinos, and more.
Can you use fresh ground coffee in a single serve machine?
Yes, most single serve coffee machines can use freshly ground coffee beans. Check the user manual for your machine for specific instructions on how to use fresh grounds. You may also need to purchase a special filter basket if your machine does not come with one.
