Single Serve Coffee Makers Comparison

single serve coffee reviews-serve coffee machines can be used for a quick cup or cold brew. They can use pre-packaged pods of coffee or reusable filters stuffed with ground beans.

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

1. Keurig K-Elite

The K-Elite is a gorgeous design that blends premium finishes with programmable features. It's among the most versatile Keurig models in terms of the types of drinks it can brew -- it supports K-Cups and ground coffee as well as hot chocolate and tea. Its large and removable 72-ounce water tank can serve up to seven medium cups before needing refills. It's also compatible with reusable K-Cup pods, which could save you money in the long run.

It's simple to use, even having more buttons than any other Keurig. The top control panel features the power button, the settings button as well as up and down buttons for the menu and the "strong" button and a hot water button and four different sizes of brew and an "iced" button. A large LCD with a color-coded display makes it easy to determine when the machine needs a descale or refill.

Although the K-Elite is one of our top Keurig models, it does have some negatives. It can, for instance, be difficult to clean because it doesn't have a drip tray that can be detached 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 tried the K-Elite and discovered that it performed well in all categories. It scored above average in first-cup speed as well as repeat speed and temperature consistency.

It was also the most efficient to warm the water and then brew the cup. It was also the least likely to produce grounds. However, the K-Elite wasn't able to make as hot of a cup as our other top models. The iced coffee was less flavorful than its strong brew. The K-Elite is a great option to anyone who is looking for a single-serve machine. You can purchase it from many retailers including Keurig, Amazon, Walmart, and Wayfair. You can find it for about $150. The K-Classic model is also an option if are looking for a less expensive model. It's a bit more expensive than the Elite, but not as much as some of our top selections.

2. Single-Serve Espresso Maker, Black+Decker

A single pod coffee-serve coffee maker gives you the convenience of a hot cup of coffee on demand. These machines are smaller and compact than drip models which makes them a great choice for small kitchens and dorm rooms. They also offer the ability to prepare a variety different coffee drinks, including espresso-style shots and lattes. They are simple to use and clean, making them an excellent option for busy households.

The BLACK+DECKER CM618 might be among the most affordable models on the market but it offers some key features that are worth considering. It has a permanent filter that can accommodate both ground coffee and pre-packaged soft coffee pods and it comes with an auto-shutoff feature that shuts the machine off after brewing to conserve water and energy. It takes just a few minutes to prepare a single serving coffee maker cup of coffee. The machine comes with a thermal travel mug that fits in most standard car cup holders.

In our tests the BLACK+DECKER was capable to make a delicious pot of coffee with less than half the amount of time it took the typical model in our lab. It also comes with functions that are normally reserved for brewers with higher prices like an automatic start.

Its sleek, retro style is a perfect choice for anyone who enjoys an aesthetically pleasing design that blends with other kitchen appliances and its light weight construction and removable water tank make it easy to transport. Our testers found it easy to use and operated with a user-friendly digital control panel and menu that was simple to comprehend even for those with no prior experience using a single-serve espresso machine. However, the brew time was not the best in our tests, and it wasn't capable of reaching 195°F for five or six minutes--the industry standard for the best flavor. The brew temperatures were also higher than other models we tried, which could lead to overheated coffee or burnt grounds. Despite these issues the CM618 remains a great option for those on a limited budget who want to brew K-Cup pods and their own ground coffee.

3. Nespresso Vertuo Single-Serve Coffee Maker

Nespresso machines are a bit different from K-Cup or Keurig machines as they only use the brand's espresso and coffee pods. The brand divides its pod-based machines into two categories: VertuoLine and Original. Original machines make espresso-based drinks. 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 were made to be used with Nespresso capsules that can be reused and recycled.

The VertuoLine NespressoXP371 comes with four different drink sizes, smart capsule detection technology and the company's signature centrifusion process for brewing. It also features a sleek, modern design and a water tank that is removable that holds 37 ounces of water. It is simple to use and has an automatic system that lets pods empty inside a container that is built inside the machine. It takes 15 to 20 seconds for the machine to warm up and then shuts down automatically after 9 minutes.

In our tests, we discovered that the XP371 was a good cup. It had a nice crema and was hot enough to drink 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 of coffee which was the third-lowest speed in our tests. This isn't a big deal however if you're used to brewing coffee quickly in the morning, it could be a problem.

Overall, the NespressoXP371 makes a great choice for espresso and coffee enthusiasts who want to reduce waste. Its design is more luxurious than other pod brewers. It's also compatible with Nespresso capsules that are more eco-friendly. The VertuoLine's price is high and its dependence on proprietary capsules may make some consumers turn away.

If you don't have the money to invest in the best single-serve pod coffee maker, but you still enjoy the convenience of a single serve coffee brewer-serve machine We suggest checking out our top reusable cups review. You can also use one of our favorite cup insulated ones to keep your tea or coffee warm.

4. Cuisinart DCC-1200

This coffee maker has been praised by thousands of users due to its convenient features and other models don't have them. The price is affordable for a machine of this quality and it has a sleek design. However, some owners have cited this model as a possible fire hazard and this is something you should certainly keep in mind if you are considering buying it.

The fully automatic coffeemaker features the ability to be programmed for 24 hours and you can set it to brew one or four cups at once or a full pot of 12. The carafe has thermal design and permanent gold-tone wire mesh filter as well as charcoal filter remove impurities, thus enhancing the taste of the brewed beverage. The "Brew Pause", which interrupts the brewing process for 30 seconds, allows you to pour one cup. The self-cleaning feature keeps the tank free of impurities.

The controls are evenly spaced and clearly labeled. It is easy to determine what each button does. Other features include an automatic shutoff and drip-free spout that has the knuckleguard. This coffee maker is also extremely easy to use and its stainless steel brushed finish looks beautiful on the countertop.

However, some customers have reported that the permanent gold tone wire mesh filter difficult to clean, and this may be a problem for those who prefer paper filters. Additionally, some have complained that they are unable to get the reservoir to fill up properly due to an issue with the design that pushes water through a small opening in the back of the machine before it goes into the filter.

Some people have complained that their Cuisinart Coffee Maker spits coffee grounds and water all over the counter while it is operating, but this appears to be an uncommon occurrence. In any case, it is a great coffee maker that is worth checking out if you are seeking a basic model that comes with a lot of convenience features at a very reasonable price.