Single Serve Coffee Makers Comparison

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

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

1. Keurig K-Elite

The K-Elite has a beautiful design that blends high-end finishes with programmable features. It's among the most versatile Keurig models in terms of what it can brew. it can brew K-Cups and ground coffee and hot tea and chocolate. The large, reusable 72-ounce tank is able to make up to seven medium-sized cups before requiring a refill. It's also compatible with refillable K-Cup pods, which can save you money over the long term.

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

Although the K-Elite is among our top Keurig models however, it has some downsides. For instance, it can be difficult to clean because it doesn't come with a drip tray that can be detached and the lid isn't secure. Also, the spout tends to produce a splatter, especially when you use smaller travel mugs.

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

It was also the most efficient to boil the water before brewing the cup. And it was the least likely to produce grounds. However the K-Elite did not make as hot of a cup as some of our other top models. Additionally the iced option was less flavorful than the strong coffee. The K-Elite is a great choice for anyone looking for a machine that is single cup coffee machines-serve. It's available for purchase at numerous retailers, including Keurig's site, Amazon, Walmart and Wayfair. You can purchase it for about $150. If you're looking for a cheaper model, the K-Classic is also worth considering. It's priced a bit higher than the Elite but isn't as expensive as some of our other top picks.

2. Single-Serve Espresso Maker Black+Decker

A single serve espresso machine-serve machine gives you the convenience of a quick hot cup of coffee on demand. These machines are smaller, less bulky and perfect for small kitchens or dorms. They are also able to make a variety of coffee drinks, including espresso shots and lattes. They are easy to use and clean and make a great choice for busy families.

The BLACK+DECKER CM618 may be one of the cheapest models available, but it offers some key features which make it worth a look. It has a filter that is permanent that can be used with both ground coffee and soft coffee pods. It also comes with an automatic shut-off feature that helps conserve energy and water. It takes only a few minutes to brew one cup of coffee and comes with a thermos travel mug that can fit most standard car-cup holders (though you can make use of your own if prefer).

In our tests, the BLACK+DECKER was able to produce a tasty pot of coffee in less than half the time that it took for the standard model we tested in our lab. It also comes with programmable features that are generally reserved for higher-end brewers including an automatic start.

Its retro-styled design is perfect for those who like to blend their kitchen appliances. Its light construction and tank that can be removed makes it easy to transport. It was relatively easy to use with a touch-screen control panel that was intuitive and an interface that anyone could comprehend. However, the brew time was only average in our tests, and it wasn't capable of reaching 195°F for more than five or six minutes, which is the industry standard for optimal flavor. The brew temperatures were higher than the other models we test and could result in overheated coffee or burnt grounds. Despite these concerns the CM618 is still a great option for people with a tight budget but want to brew their favorite K-Cup pods or their own ground coffee.

3. Nespresso Vertuo Single-Serve Coffee Maker

Nespresso machines differ from K-Cup and Keurig machines since they use their own coffee pods. The brand divides its pod-based machine into two categories that are VertuoLine and Original. VertuoLine machines are designed to create larger milk and coffee recipes, like lattes and cappuccinos. Since they're meant to be used in tandem with Nespresso's sustainable and reusable capsules, the Original machines typically cost more than VertuoLine models.

The VertuoLine Nespresso XP371 features four different sizes of drink as well as smart capsule detection and the centrifusion brewing technique. It also features a sleek, modern design and a water tank that is removable that can hold 37 ounces of water. The machine is simple to operate and features an automatic system that allows you to eject pods that are no longer used into an internal container. It takes 15 to 20 seconds for the machine to get heated, and shuts off automatically after nine minutes.

In our tests, we discovered that the XP371 produced a good cup. It had an excellent crema and was hot enough to enjoy in the morning without burning your tongue. It was slower to brew than other models. It took 1 minute and 51 seconds to brew 7,7 ounces, which was third-fastest of the models we examined. This isn't a deal-breaker, but it can be a problem if you're used to quick morning coffee brews.

Overall the NespressoXP371 is a great choice for those who love coffee and espresso who are looking to cut down on waste. Its design is a bit more luxurious than a typical pod brewer and it's compatible with Nespresso's reusable capsules, which are more eco-friendly than the K-Cups and other traditional pods on market. However the VertuoLine XP371's hefty price tag and dependence on proprietary capsules can be a deterrent for potential buyers.

If you don't have the money to buy a reputable pod coffee maker, but would like to have the convenience of a single-serve machine, then we suggest you check out our review of cup reusable. You might also want to consider one of our favorite tumblers with insulation to keep your tea or coffee warm.

4. Cuisinart DCC-1200

This coffee maker has been praised by a large number of users for its convenience features and other models don't have these features. The price is affordable for a machine of this quality and it also has a sleek look. Some owners have complained that this model is dangerous to fire. This is something you need to keep in mind before buying.

This fully automatic coffeemaker is programmable for all hours of the day. You can program it to brew four cups or 12 at a time, or one cup or four cups. The carafe is thermal and the permanent gold-tone filter with wire mesh and charcoal water filter eliminate impurities, which enhances the flavor of your brew. The "Brew Pause", which stops the brewing process for 30 seconds, allows you to pour the contents of a cup. The auto-cleaning feature keeps the tank clean.

The controls on this coffee maker are equally spaced and clearly marked, so you can easily find what each button does at a glance. Other features include a self-cleaning, alerts to decalcify the carafe and tank, an automatic shutoff, and a knuckle-guard dripless spout that allows for a ease of pouring. This coffee maker is easy to use and comes with stunning brushed stainless finishes.

Some buyers have complained that the gold toned permanent wire mesh filter is difficult to clean. This could be an issue for people who prefer paper filters. Some users have also complained that the reservoir doesn't fill properly due to an error in the design that pushes water into the filter through a small hole at the back of machine.

A few people have also complained that their Cuisinart coffee maker spills coffee grounds and water all over the counter when it is operating however this appears to be a rare occurrence. In any case, it is a great coffee maker that is worth a look if are looking for a basic model that comes with a lot of convenience features at a reasonable price.