Single Serve Coffee Makers Comparison Single-serve coffee makers offer convenience for quick cups of hot or cold coffee. They can make use of pre-packaged coffee pods, or reusable filters that are filled with ground beans. Coffee drinkers who value individualization will require an appliance that can make a full-pot of espresso or drip coffee shots. These machines are also designed to reduce the environmental impact of disposable coffee pods. They use reusable or recyclable capsules. 1. Keurig K-Elite The K-Elite has a beautiful design that combines premium finishes with programming capabilities. It's one of the most versatile Keurigs in terms the kinds of beverages it can be brewed withit supports K-Cups as well as ground coffee, hot chocolate or tea. The large, removable 72-ounce tank can make up to seven medium-sized cups before requiring refills. It's also compatible with reusable 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 simple to use and navigate. The top control panel includes an energy button, a settings button along with up and down buttons for the menu and the "strong" button, a hot water button and four different sizes of brew and an "iced" button. A large LCD display with color coded colors allows you to easily see when the machine requires a descale or refill. The K-Elite is one of our favorite Keurigs has its drawbacks. It can be difficult for example to clean since it does not have a removable drip tray and the lid isn't secure. Also, the spout tends to leave a few splatters, especially when you use shorter travel mugs. In our Coffee Makers Test Program, we also tested the K-Elite and found that it performed well in all categories. It scored above average in first-cup speed, temperature consistency and repeat speed. It was also one of the fastest to heat water and brew a cup, and it was also the most likely to not produce grounds in your coffee. However, the K-Elite wasn't able to make as hot of a cup as our other top models. Additionally the iced option was not as flavorful as the strong brew. The K-Elite is a great option to anyone who is looking for a machine that is single-serve. It's available for purchase from many retailers, including Keurig's site, Amazon, Walmart and Wayfair. It's available for around $150. If you're looking to buy a lower-priced model, the K-Classic is a good option. It's a bit more expensive than the Elite however, not so much as our top selections. 2. Black+Decker Single-Serve Espresso Maker A single-serve machine gives you the convenience of a hot cup of coffee on demand. These machines are smaller, less bulky and ideal for small kitchens or dorms. They also allow you to prepare a variety different coffee drinks, including espresso-style shots and lattes. They are also simple to clean and operate and are a great option for busy households. The BLACK+DECKER CM618 may be one of the cheapest models available, but it offers some key features that are worth considering. It has an in-built filter that can accommodate ground coffee as well as pre-packaged soft coffee pods, and it has an auto-shutoff function that shuts the machine off after the brewing process has finished to save water and energy. It only takes minutes to perk one cup of coffee, and it comes with a thermos travel mug that can fit most standard car-cup holders (though you can use your own if you prefer). In our tests, we observed that the BLACK+DECKER could produce a delicious cup of coffee in less than half the amount of time it takes to make the typical model. It also has some programs that are typically reserved for higher-end models like an auto start. Its sleek, retro style is an ideal option for those who like an elegant look that is coordinated with other appliances in your kitchen, and its lightweight construction and water tank that is removable makes it easy to move. Our testers found it relatively user-friendly and use, with a simple menu and control panel that was simple to comprehend even for those without prior experience with a single-serve coffee machine. However, the brew speed was only average in our tests, and it was not capable of reaching 195°F for five or six minutes--the industry standard for optimal flavor. The brew temperature was noticeable higher than other models we tested, which could result in burned grounds and overheated coffee. Despite these issues the CM618 remains a great option for those on a limited 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 are different than K-Cup or Keurig machines because they use only the brand's own espresso and coffee pods. The brand splits its pod-based machines into two categories: Original and VertuoLine. Original machines brew espresso-based drinks, while VertuoLine models are designed to make larger coffee and milk recipes such as lattes and cappuccinos. Because they're designed to be used with Nespresso's recyclable and sustainable capsules, Original machines are more expensive than VertuoLine models. The VertuoLine NespressoXP371 comes with four different drink sizes and intelligent capsule detection and the centrifusion brewing technique. It features a modern and sleek design, as well as a removable 37-ounce water tank. It is user-friendly and has an automatic system that ejects pods that are used in a container integrated into the machine. It takes about 15 to 20 seconds to heat up and then is shut down by itself after nine minutes. In our tests, the XP371 made a good cup of coffee. It produced a good cup of coffee with a nice crema. It was also hot enough to drink in the morning without burning your tongue. However it was slower than other models to make. https://www.coffeee.uk/categories/single-serve-coffee-machines took 1 minute and 51 seconds to make 7.7 ounces of coffee which was the third-lowest speed in our tests. This isn't an issue but if you're used to brewing coffee quickly in the morning, it may be a problem. Overall, the Nespresso XP371 is a great choice for coffee and espresso lovers who are looking to cut down on waste. Its design is a bit more luxurious than a typical pod brewer and is compatible with Nespresso's reusable capsules, which are more environmentally friendly than K-Cups and other traditional pods available on the market. The VertuoLine's high price and dependence on proprietary capsules may cause some buyers to be hesitant. If you don't have the money to purchase a top-rated pod coffee maker but would like to have the convenience of a single-serve machine, then we recommend checking out our review of cup reusable. You can also test one of our top insulated tumblers to keep your coffee or tea warm. 4. Cuisinart DCC-1200 This coffee maker has received thousands of positive reviews from customers and has a variety of convenient features that other models don't have. The price is reasonable for a machine of this quality and it also has a sleek look. However, some owners have cited this model as a potential fire danger which is something you should be aware of when you're considering purchasing it. This fully automated coffeemaker comes with the ability to be programmed for 24 hours and you can set it to brew one or four cups at once or an entire pot of 12 cups. The carafe is a thermal one and the permanent gold tone filter made of wire mesh 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, lets you pour a cup. The auto-cleaning feature keeps the tank clean. The controls are well-spaced and clearly identified. You can quickly identify the functions of each button. Other features include a self-cleaning, alerts to reduce the calcification of the carafe and tank, an automatic shutoff, and a knuckle-guard dripless spout that allows for a easy pouring. This coffee maker is easy to use and comes with gorgeous brushed stainless finish. Some customers have complained that the gold toned mesh filter is difficult to clean. This may be a problem for those who prefer to use paper filters. Additionally, some have reported that they have difficulty getting the reservoir to fill up properly due to a design flaw that forces water through a tiny opening in the back of the machine and into the filter. Some users have complained that their Cuisinart Coffee Maker spits water and coffee grounds all over the counter when it is operating, but this is rare. In any case, this is a fantastic coffee maker that is worth a look if are seeking a basic model that has plenty of convenient features for a low price.