There was a time when my wife, a fellow coffee addict, decided to take a sabbatical from her beloved beverage. As a result, I found myself in a predicament every morning. Traditionally I would make an entire pot of coffee to share, but now it was just me. To avoid coffee waste and excessive brewing, I had to find a better way to make the perfect cup of joe for one.
At first, I tried using the traditional drip coffee maker and measuring out the right amount of water and coffee grounds for one cup. But it never tasted quite right. Then, I decided to find the best coffee maker for one person!
Since then, my wife has returned to her beloved coffee, but I still sometimes find myself in a rush and need to make a single cup before heading out. With all the data I collected, I compiled an (updated) list of coffee machines.
Key features for a coffee maker for one person
Finding the right coffee maker can be challenging when making coffee for one person. You don’t want to make too much or waste any of your precious beans, and you certainly don’t want to sacrifice flavor. Fortunately, there are plenty of options available that are designed specifically for solo coffee drinkers!
Machine size
Do you live in a mansion or a studio apartment? Depending on the size of your space, you’ll want to make sure the coffee maker you choose fits comfortably. Remember to account for accessories like filters and k-cups too!
Single serve or carafe
As mentioned before, single-serve coffee makers are designed for making one cup at a time. So, if you’re in a rush and need to get out the door with your steaming mug of joe, then it’s worth considering. On the other hand, a carafe machine is a better option if you need something that can make multiple cups of coffee at once.
Coffee type
When choosing your ideal coffee maker for one person, the type of coffee you prefer will make a big difference. The most common types are drip brewers, French Presses, single-serve machines, and espresso makers.
Brew speed
If you’re always in a rush or need to make coffee for one person quickly, you’ll want to look at the speed of the brewing process. Some coffee makers are faster than others, so check the brew speed before buying. However, if flavor is your priority, consider a machine that takes its time or even a manual brewing system.
Programmable settings
Plenty of machines offer these features if you’re a fan of pre-programmed settings. Some can be set to brew a single cup of coffee at the same time every day, and others even allow you to customize the temperature and strength.
Speed and brew time
Some coffee makers take a few minutes to get warmed up, while others are ready to go almost immediately. Make sure you check the brew time before purchasing so that you can make sure it fits into your schedule!
Cup size options
Look for a machine that can accommodate different cup sizes, from small mugs to travel cups. Most single-person coffee machines make a standard 8-ounce mug, but if you have a giant coffee mug, you’ll want to find a coffee maker that can fill it to the top!
Brewing options
Some machines can brew hot and iced coffee, while others may have customizable settings for strength and temperature. The more options available generally require a higher price and larger size. So balance the features you need and the size that’s right for you.
Ease of use
A good single-serve coffee maker should be simple to operate with minimal buttons or settings. But, if you like changing your routine, look for a machine with multiple brewing options. A good user interface with well-marked functions can improve the overall experience.
Cleaning and maintenance
Consider how easy it is to clean the machine after use and whether any parts are dishwasher safe. If the machine is one solid piece and you can’t access the inside, cleaning will be more challenging. But if there are removable parts that make it easier to reach those hard-to-get spots, then you’ll have an easier time keeping your coffee maker in tip-top shape.
Brand reputation and reliability
Look for brands with a good reputation for quality and customer service. A high-quality machine should last a long while and offer consistent performance. Reliable customer service can also make a tremendous difference if you ever need to troubleshoot any issues with your appliance.
Price
Finally, price is always a factor when choosing any appliance. Your budget will help determine which features you get and whether or not it fits into your lifestyle. But remember that buying quality can sometimes save you money in the long run.
Our list of coffee makers for one person
When it comes to making coffee for one person, plenty of options exist. We’ve done the legwork and found some of the best coffee makers on the market to accommodate your solo brewing needs. From programmable settings to speed and cup size flexibility, each one offers something special that can fit into any lifestyle. So take a look and see which one works best for you.
1. Ninja DualBrew Pro System Coffee Maker
Benefits:
- Versatile brewing options
- Compatible with both K-Cup and freshly ground beans
- 12-cup drip carafe option
- Frother included for making lattes and cappuccinos
- Single serve option allows for quick brew times
Are you looking for a coffee maker that can cater to your daily caffeine needs and your weekend brunch parties? Look no further than the Ninja DualBrew Pro System Coffee Maker! This versatile coffee maker is the perfect choice for a one-person home, offering various options for on-the-go coffee drinkers while having enough capacity to serve a crowd.
With its compatibility with both K-Cup pods and ground coffee, this coffee maker allows you to choose from Classic, Rich, Over Ice, and Specialty brews. Whether you prefer a strong cup of joe or something more mellow, the Ninja specialty coffee maker has got you covered. Plus, with its 12-cup drip coffee maker option, you can easily brew enough coffee for your Sunday brunch guests.
But that’s not all – this coffee maker also comes equipped with a frother, allowing you to make lattes and cappuccinos right at home. And if you’re in a hurry in the morning, the single-serve pod option lets you quickly brew a cup of coffee and be on your way.
2. Keurig K-Elite Coffee Maker
Benefits:
- Options for all types of coffee drinkers
- Programmable settings and cup size options
- Compatible with K-Cup pods and ground coffee
- Fast brew time
- Easy to use and clean
If you’re looking for the best single-serve coffee maker that’s both stylish and functional, look no further than the Keurig K-Elite Coffee Maker. This brewer offers a premium finish and programmable features that allow you to customize your beverage just as you desire.
One of the best things about this coffee maker is its compatibility with K-Cup pods. With a vast selection of flavors and roasts, you’ll never get bored with your morning cup of joe. Plus, using K-Cups is incredibly easy – pop one in and press go.
But the Keurig K-Elite isn’t just convenient – it also offers multiple brew options, so you can change your routine whenever you like. Choose from five different cup sizes and adjust the strength and temperature to your liking. And if you’re in the mood for something cold, there’s even an iced coffee setting.
Overall, the Keurig K-Elite Coffee Maker is the perfect choice for anyone who wants to enjoy their favorite coffee drinks at home hassle-free.
3. Cuisinart Single-Serve Coffee Brewer
Benefits:
- Compatible with K-Cup pods and ground coffee
- 12-cup drip coffee maker option
- 5 cup size options and adjustable strength/temperature settings
- 72-ounce water reservoir for multiple cups of coffee without refilling
- Compact size takes up minimal counter space
If you value a fresh cup of coffee throughout the day, then the Cuisinart Single-Serve Coffee Brewer is the perfect addition to your kitchen! With its extra-large 72-ounce water reservoir, you can make multiple cups of coffee without refilling it constantly.
But that’s not all – this brewer also offers a multitude of brew options, allowing you to customize your coffee just the way you like it. Choose from three serving sizes and easily adjust your brew’s strength. Plus, this coffee maker takes up minimal counter space with its compact proportions.
Whether you’re a busy professional who needs a quick pick-me-up between meetings or a stay-at-home parent who wants to enjoy a fresh cup of coffee while caring for the kids, the Cuisinart Single-Serve Coffee Brewer is an excellent choice.
4. Hamilton Beach FlexBrew Trio 2-Way Coffee Maker
Benefits:
- Compatible with espresso capsules, pods, or ground coffee
- Fast brewing – a cup in 1 minute
- Extra-large 56-ounce removable water reservoir for fewer refills
- Brews distinct amounts of coffee into selected cup sized
- Powerful 19-bar pressure espresso pump for a rich espresso crema
This incredible machine lets you brew a cup with espresso capsules, pods, or ground coffee, making it perfect for any coffee lover.
But that’s not all – this coffee maker is also incredibly fast. In the morning, every minute counts, and the Hamilton Beach FlexBrew Universal Coffee Maker prepares a 2.7-ounce cup of espresso or an 8-ounce cup of coffee in about 1 minute, so you still have to take out the trash.
And if you’re brewing for a crowd, you’ll love the convenience of the extra-large 56-ounce removable water reservoir.
But the best feature of this machine is its ability to brew different amounts of coffee into different-sized cups. Using an espresso capsule lets you brew your choice of 1.35, 2.7, or 5 ounces of espresso. Brewing with a coffee pod or ground coffee allows you to brew 8, 10, or 14 ounces of aromatic coffee.
And let’s not forget about the powerful 19-bar pressure espresso pump! This pump provides fast, reliable brewing performance and creates a rich espresso crema that makes you feel like a barista in your kitchen.
5. Keurig K-Café Serve Coffee Maker
Benefits:
- Attractive metal design
- Four cup sizes (6, 8, 10, and 12 ounces)
- Large 60-ounce water reservoir for fewer refills
- Smart Start function heats and brews in one process
- Energy efficient with auto-off feature
- Travel mug friendly; accommodates mugs up to 7.2 inches tall
Are you a specialty coffee lover looking for the perfect coffee maker to complement your kitchen? Look no further than the Keurig K-Café Serve Coffee Maker! The special edition coffee maker features a premium nickel-colored finish, metal handle, and drip tray that will add a touch of elegance to any kitchen.
But this coffee maker isn’t just about looks. It also boasts four cup sizes – 6, 8, 10, and 12 ounces – and simple button controls that allow you to brew delicious hot or iced lattes and cappuccinos. And with its sizeable 60-ounce water reservoir, you can brew up to six cups before refilling – saving you time and simplifying your morning ritual.
The Keurig K-Café Serve Coffee Maker also features a Smart Start function that heats your coffee maker and brews your beverage in a straightforward process – no need to wait for it to heat up before selecting your cup size. Plus, it’s energy efficient with a programmable auto-off feature that turns off the brewer two hours after the last brew for energy savings.
This coffee maker is travel mug friendly too! It accommodates travel mugs up to 7.2 inches tall and is top-rack dishwasher safe for easy cleanup. And if you prefer to use your own ground coffee, the Keurig K-Café Serve Coffee Maker is compatible with the My K-Cup Universal Reusable Coffee Filter (sold separately).
One of the best features of this coffee maker is its Brewer Maintenance Reminder. It alerts you when to descale your machine – a necessary process that removes built-up calcium deposits and ensures the best-tasting brew possible.
So why settle for a basic coffee maker when you can have all these fantastic features in one machine? Treat yourself to the Keurig K-Café Serve Coffee!
6. Mr. Coffee 5-Cup Mini Brew
Benefits:
- Small and compact for tight spaces
- Easy switch with power indicator lights
- Updated ergonomic carafe for easy pouring and handling
- Grab-a-Cup Auto Pause feature
- Lift and clean the filter basket for easy cleanup
Are you looking for an affordable and compact coffee maker that can keep you caffeinated all morning? The Mr. Coffee 5-Cup Mini Brew is your best bet! With the ability to make up to 25 oz. of coffee, this small pot brewer is perfect for two 12-oz. cups, making it ideal for couples or solo coffee drinkers who want a few cups to start their day.
The easy switch with a power indicator lights up to show when the coffee maker is on or reminds you to shut it off when you’re done brewing. Plus, the compact design is ideal for small spaces.
One of the most attractive features of this coffee maker is its updated ergonomic carafe. It provides easy pouring and handling alongside ounce markings for perfect measuring. The carafe is made of glass, so you can see exactly how much coffee you have left.
Another great feature is the Grab-a-Cup Auto Pause, which lets you grab a cup before brewing is finished. And with an easy-to-view water window that allows you to see the exact water level, preventing overflows, this coffee maker makes brewing your favorite blend a breeze.
Cleanup is also a snap with the Lift & Clean Filter Basket, which makes it easy to remove and clean your used filter without any mess or hassle.
7. Farberware 2-4 Cup Percolator
Benefits:
- Durable stainless steel construction
- Traditional brewing method for maximum flavor
- Automatically switches to keep warm function after brewing
- Cool touch lid and handle for safe and easy pouring
- Detachable cord simplifies serving and transportation
Are you a coffee lover who appreciates the traditional brewing method? Then the Farberware 2-4 Cup Percolator is the perfect appliance for you! This premium percolator is constructed with stainless steel, making it durable and a stylish addition to your kitchen.
The percolator’s stainless steel coffee basket is designed to extract maximum flavor from your favorite grounds, ensuring every cup of coffee is rich and delicious. Plus, once brewing is complete, the kettle automatically switches to its ‘keep warm’ function, so your coffee stays hot and ready to enjoy.
Safety and convenience are also key features of this percolator. The cool-touch lid and handle make it easy to transport and pour without fretting about burns. The rounded knob on the lid is easy to remove, enabling simple cleaning and maintenance.
This percolator has a 2-4 cup capacity, perfect for single-person households or small gatherings. And serving is easier thanks to the detachable cord that simplifies moving and pouring the kettle.
Its durable construction, maximum flavor extraction capabilities, automatic keep-warm function, safety features, and convenient size make it an excellent choice for any coffee lover.
8. Nespresso Inissia Espresso Machine by De’Longhi
Benefits:
- Petite yet vibrant design to complement any interior decor
- 0.7 L tank makes nine coffees without refilling
- Adjustable cup size
- High-pressure pump that delivers up to 19 bars of pressure
- One-touch operation and patented extraction system for barista-quality coffee
Suppose you’re a coffee lover who craves espresso’s rich, bold flavor but wants to avoid dealing with the hassle of traditional machines. In that case, the Nespresso Inissia Espresso Machine by De’Longhi is perfect for you! This petite yet vibrant gadget is crafted to perfectly complement any interior decor and comes with a wide selection of colors to find the ideal match for your home.
One of the best things about the Nespresso Inissia is that there’s virtually no waiting for the machine to warm up before you make your coffee selection. With just one touch and 25 seconds, the water reaches the ideal temperature to make up to 9 coffees without refilling the 0.7 L tank. You can adjust the cup size with two programmable Espresso and Lungo buttons to enjoy your favorite drink exactly how you like it.
The Nespresso Inissia also features a high-pressure pump that delivers up to 19 bars of pressure, ensuring that every cup is barista-quality. And thanks to its simple, one-touch operation and patented extraction system, making coffee has never been easier or more enjoyable.
In addition to its convenience and ease of use, the Nespresso Inissia also features an energy-saving mode that automatically switches off after 9 minutes. And with its Nespresso capsule system, you’ll enjoy the exceptional taste and unique aromas thanks to the preparation of high-quality coffees in hermetically sealed and recyclable aluminum capsules.
Each machine even includes a welcome set with 16 capsules containing individual aromas so you can try them all to find your favorite.
9. Cuisinart SS-GB1 Coffee Center Grind and Brew Plus
Benefits:
- Built-in coffee grinder mills whole beans just before brewing
- Charcoal-filtered hot water drip brews up to 12 cups of coffee
- Single-serve option with any single-cup pod
- 24-hour advance brewing and adjustable boldness and cup size settings for custom brew
Are you a hybrid worker who works from home and leaves to go to the office? Do you want to master the perfect cup of coffee every time without having to leave your house or spend a fortune at your local coffee shop? Look no further than the Cuisinart SS-GB1 Coffee Center Grind and Brew Plus!
This versatile 2 in 1 coffee maker is perfect for any hybrid worker needing a caffeine fix. The built-in coffee grinder mills whole beans into fine, even grounds just before brewing, ensuring that every cup is as fresh as possible. And with charcoal-filtered hot water drip-brewing up to 12 cups into the stylish glass carafe, you can make enough coffee for yourself and your coworkers.
But what if you only need one cup of coffee? No problem! The Coffee Center Grind and Brew Plus has a single-serve option. Just insert any single-cup pod into the brew chamber, select an 8, 10, or 12-ounce cup, and you’ll have fresh, hot coffee ready to go in minutes.
And with features like 24-hour advance brewing and the ability to select the boldness of your coffee and exactly how much to brew, this machine is truly customizable to fit your needs. So whether you’re working from home or on the go, the Cuisinart SS-GB1 Coffee Center Grind and Brew Plus has you covered.
10. Instant Pod 3-in-1 Coffee Maker
Benefits:
- Brews both K-Cup pods and Nespresso capsules
- Reusable pod allows you to use your own coffee grounds
- Adjustable brew strength for a bolder cup
- Automatic selection of optimum brew temperature and pressure
- Large 68oz water reservoir with low water and cleaning indicators
Do you want to avoid having multiple coffee machines taking up space in your kitchen? Look no further than the Instant Pod 3-in-1 Coffee Maker from the makers of the beloved Instant Pot. This versatile machine can brew K-Cup pods and Nespresso capsules, giving you endless options for your daily caffeine fix. But that’s not all – the included reusable pod allows you to use your own coffee grounds, so you can enjoy your favorite blend any time.
Not only does this coffee maker offer variety, but it also has adjustable brew strength for those days when you need a bolder cup of joe. And with its automatic selection of the optimum brew temperature and pressure, you can trust that every cup will be perfectly brewed. Plus, maintaining this machine is a breeze thanks to its large 68oz water reservoir and low water and cleaning indicators.
Say goodbye to cluttered countertops and hello to the ultimate single-person coffee machine with the Instant Pod 3-in-1 Coffee Maker.
11. NESCAFÉ Dolce Gusto Coffee Machine
Benefits:
- Ultra-compact
- High-pressure system (up to 15 bars)
- Hermetically sealed capsules preserve coffee freshness
- Customize beverage size with the toggle stick
- Eco-mode feature for energy efficiency
- 15 premium coffee creations
If you love fancy coffee but want to avoid the hassle of an espresso machine, then the Nescafe Dolce Gusto Coffee Machine is perfect! This upscale coffee machine is designed to make your morning effortless and your coffee delicious.
The Nescafe Dolce Gusto Genio 2 capsule coffee machine is ultra-compact, making it ideal for locations serving less than 6 cups per day. But don’t let its small size fool you – this machine packs a punch when creating professional quality coffees with a thick, velvety crema, thanks to its high-pressure system (up to 15 bars). And with hermetically sealed capsules that preserve coffee freshness, you’ll enjoy rich aromatic cups every time.
Using this automatic machine is incredibly easy: slide in a capsule, customize your beverage size with the toggle stick and push the button. Plus, with its eco-mode feature that automatically switches off after 5 minutes of inactivity, this machine has an A rating in energy consumption.
But what really sets this machine apart is the 15 premium coffee creations you can enjoy. Whether you like your coffee short or long, black or white, there’s something for everyone. From intense Espresso and aromatic Medium Roast to full-bodied Dark Roast, frothy Cappuccino, and smooth Latte Macchiato – stimulate your senses with these exciting coffee solutions.
And let’s not forget about how stunning these machines look in any professional space. So why settle for mediocre coffee when you can have professional quality at your fingertips?
Frequently Asked Question
What is a Single-Serve Coffee Maker?
A single-serve coffee maker can be more than a pod coffee maker. Small pot machines with a carafe and single-serve pod machines that brew one cup of coffee at a time. Some allow for ground coffee beans, while others use pre-packaged pods or capsules that contain the right amount of coffee for one cup.
What are the Benefits of Using a Single-Serve Coffee Maker?
There are several benefits to using a single-serve coffee maker:
– Convenience: You can quickly and easily make one cup of coffee without measuring the right amount of grounds.
– Variety: Many single-serve coffee makers offer different flavors and types of coffee pods, so you can try different blends without buying multiple bags of beans.
– Less Waste: Since you only make what you need, there’s less waste than brewing an entire pot that may go unused.
What are Some Popular Brands of Single-Serve Coffee Makers?
There are many brands of single-serve coffee makers on the market, but some popular ones include:
– Keurig
– Ninja
– Hamilton Beach
– Cuisinart
– Nespresso
What Features Should I Look for in the Best Single-Serve Coffee Maker?
When choosing a single-serve coffee maker, consider these features:
Pod Compatibility: Make sure the machine is compatible with your preferred brand of pods.
– Cup Size Options: Some single-serve coffee machines allow you to choose between different cup sizes.
– Brew Strength Control: If you like your coffee strong or weak, look for machines with brew strength control.
– Water Reservoir Size: Consider how often you want to refill the water reservoir and choose accordingly.
Can I use pre-ground coffee in a single-serve machine?
Yes, many single-serve coffee makers allow you to use ground coffee. Look for machines with a built-in grinder or adjustable filter baskets that let you choose the grind size. Some machines also have a dedicated pour-over feature specifically designed for ground coffee.
