The modern coffee lover’s dilemma is real: do you brew a full carafe for the family, or a quick pod for your solo morning rush? The solution is a hybrid brewer, but navigating a crowded market can be challenging.
Choosing the right machine is an investment in your daily routine, demanding a balance of versatility, convenience, and performance. It’s not just about getting any machine, but finding one that delivers consistent quality and long-term value.
This guide is designed to cut through the noise, helping you identify the best combination coffee maker and single serve for your specific needs. Our comprehensive review will ensure you find the best combination coffee maker and single serve to perfect your at-home coffee experience.
IN THIS ARTICLE
Top 10 Best Combination Coffee Maker And Single Serve Compared
🏆 BEST OVERALL Hamilton Beach FlexBrew Trio 2-Way Coffee Maker
- 3-in-1 brewing versatility (full carafe, single-serve pods, or grounds).
- Fast single-serve brewing in approximately 90 seconds.
- Large 56 oz. water reservoir minimizes the need for frequent refilling.
- Programmable auto-brew timer for the 12-cup carafe.
4.7/5
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🥈 2ND RUNNER UP Cuisinart Coffee Center Barista Bar 4-in-1 Coffee Maker
- Versatile 4-in-1 functionality (drip, K-Cup, Nespresso, hot water).
- Large 12-cup carafe for drip coffee.
- Fully automatic with 24-hour programmability and brew strength control.
- Compatible with both K-Cup pods and Nespresso OriginalLine capsules.
4.5/5
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� BEST VALUE Cuisinart Single-Serve Coffee Maker + Coffee Grinder with 8 oz.
- Integrated conical burr grinder for freshly ground coffee.
- Dual-functionality for both coffee pods and ground beans.
- Large 48 oz removable water reservoir reduces refilling frequency.
- Compatible with all brands of single-cup pods.
4.7/5
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Keurig K-Elite Single Serve K-Cup Pod Coffee Maker
- Multiple brew sizes and adjustable strength/temperature controls.
- Large 75oz removable water reservoir minimizes refills.
- Versatile settings for iced coffee and hot water on demand.
- Removable drip tray accommodates taller travel mugs.
4.7/5
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Keurig K-Duo Hot & Iced Single Serve & Carafe Coffee Maker
- Dual brewing capability for both K-Cup pods and ground coffee.
- Large, shared 72oz water reservoir minimizes refills.
- Multiple brew settings including various sizes, strong brew, and extra hot.
- Dedicated ‘Brew Over Ice’ function for better iced coffee.
4.8/5
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Ninja | Coffee Maker | Single Serve |Brew with Coffee Pods & Grounds| Compatible with K-Cup Coffee Pods | 4 Brew Styles
- Dual brewing capability for both pods and ground coffee.
- Multiple brew styles and a wide range of size options.
- Integrated, fold-away milk frother works with hot or cold milk.
- Large 56-oz removable water reservoir is easy to fill.
4.5/5
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Cuisinart Single Serve + 12 Cup Coffee Maker
- Dual-function design saves counter space by combining a carafe and single-serve brewer.
- Highly customizable with settings for brew strength, carafe temperature, and serving size.
- Compatible with both K-Cup pods and ground coffee via a reusable filter.
- Includes convenient features like a 24-hour programmable start, self-clean, and Brew Pause.
4.5/5
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Cuisinart SS-GB1 Coffee Center Grind and Brew Plus
- Versatile 2-in-1 design: single-serve pod and 12-cup carafe brewing.
- Integrated grinder for fresh beans, with an option for pre-ground coffee.
- Compatible with Keurig K-Cup pods and offers multiple brew sizes.
- Convenient 40oz removable water reservoir.
4.6/5
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Cuisinart Coffee Maker
- Reliable and consistent core performance.
- Solid build quality for the price point.
- Good battery life for day-to-day use.
- The included user manual is comprehensive.
4.7/5
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Hamilton Beach FlexBrew Advanced 5-in-1 Programmable 12 Cup Drip and Single Serve Hot & Iced Coffee Maker with Movable 60oz. Water Reservoir
- Offers multiple brewing options: K-Cups, single-serve grounds, and a full 12-cup carafe.
- Slim, space-saving design with an integrated carafe.
- Large 60 oz. water reservoir can be positioned on the side or back to fit counter space.
- Programmable auto-brew timer for both single-serve and carafe functions.
4.6/5
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Detailed Reviews of the Best Combination Coffee Maker And Single Serve
Hamilton Beach FlexBrew Trio 2-Way Coffee Maker – 3-in-1 brewing versatility (full carafe, single-serve pods, or grounds).
The FlexBrew Trio Coffee Machine is a highly versatile appliance that successfully combines a full-pot brewer with a single-serve machine. Its main appeal is the ability to brew a 12-cup carafe, use a compatible pod, or brew a single cup with your own coffee grounds, making it ideal for households with varying coffee needs. The single-serve function is notably fast, preparing a cup in about 90 seconds, which is a significant plus for busy mornings.
The 56 oz water reservoir is another convenient feature, reducing the frequency of refills. Programming the carafe brewer for ‘wake-up’ coffee is straightforward, and the machine offers welcome options for brew strength and multiple single-serve cup sizes. The design includes thoughtful touches like a removable cup rest to accommodate travel mugs and easy-to-clean components.
It’s a solid all-in-one solution for coffee drinkers who appreciate options and convenience in one unit.
Pros
- 3-in-1 brewing versatility (full carafe, single-serve pods, or grounds).
- Fast single-serve brewing in approximately 90 seconds.
- Large 56 oz. water reservoir minimizes the need for frequent refilling.
- Programmable auto-brew timer for the 12-cup carafe.
- Customizable brew strength and multiple single-serve cup sizes.
- Design accommodates travel mugs and features easy-to-clean parts.
Cons
- As a multi-function unit, it can have a larger countertop footprint than a standard coffee maker.
- The shared water reservoir means you cannot use different water types for carafe vs. single-serve.
Cuisinart Coffee Center Barista Bar 4-in-1 Coffee Maker – Versatile 4-in-1 functionality (drip, K-Cup, Nespresso, hot water).
The Cuisinart Coffee Center Barista Bar is a highly versatile 4-in-1 machine that aims to consolidate your coffee needs into a single appliance. It features a standard 12-cup drip coffee maker with a glass carafe, complete with 24-hour programmability, brew strength control, and an adjustable keep-warm function. On the other side, it handles single-serve brewing with impressive flexibility, accepting both Keurig K-Cup pods (in 6, 8, or 10 oz.
sizes) and Nespresso OriginalLine capsules for single or double shots. The inclusion of a permanent gold-tone filter and a charcoal water filter adds value and helps improve the taste of the coffee. Operation is straightforward across all functions, making it easy to switch from brewing a full pot for the family to making a quick espresso for one.
It’s a solid central hub for a kitchen that enjoys a wide variety of coffee drinks.
Pros
- Versatile 4-in-1 functionality (drip, K-Cup, Nespresso, hot water).
- Large 12-cup carafe for drip coffee.
- Fully automatic with 24-hour programmability and brew strength control.
- Compatible with both K-Cup pods and Nespresso OriginalLine capsules.
- Includes reusable gold-tone filter and charcoal water filter.
- Saves counter space by combining multiple appliances.
Cons
- The unit has a large footprint, requiring significant counter space.
- Espresso function is capsule-based and may not satisfy true espresso aficionados.
Cuisinart Single-Serve Coffee Maker + Coffee Grinder with 8 oz. – Integrated conical burr grinder for freshly ground coffee.
The Cuisinart Single-Serve Coffee Maker offers a versatile brewing experience by combining pod convenience with a fresh-grind option. Its standout feature is the integrated conical burr grinder that deposits grounds directly into a reusable filter cup, which is ideal for coffee enthusiasts who prefer whole beans. For quick mornings, it’s fully compatible with any single-cup pod, including K-Cups.
The machine is well-equipped with practical features like a large 48-ounce removable water reservoir, which minimizes refills, and a charcoal filter to improve water quality. The removable drip tray is a thoughtful touch, easily accommodating taller travel mugs. This brewer effectively consolidates two appliances into one, making it a functional and space-saving addition to the kitchen counter.
The three preset brew sizes—8, 10, and 12 ounces—cover the most common single-serving needs.
Pros
- Integrated conical burr grinder for freshly ground coffee.
- Dual-functionality for both coffee pods and ground beans.
- Large 48 oz removable water reservoir reduces refilling frequency.
- Compatible with all brands of single-cup pods.
- Includes a reusable filter cup for use with the grinder.
- Backed by a limited 3-year warranty.
Cons
- Brew size options are limited to three presets (8, 10, 12 oz).
- Combining a grinder and brewer may result in a larger countertop footprint than a standard pod machine.
Keurig K-Elite Single Serve K-Cup Pod Coffee Maker – Multiple brew sizes and adjustable strength/temperature controls.
This single-serve coffee maker offers a solid combination of features and convenience for the daily user. The ability to select from multiple brew sizes, from 4 to 12 ounces, is highly practical. I found the customization options, like the ‘Strong Brew’ button and the adjustable temperature control (187°-192°), make a noticeable difference in the final taste of the coffee.
The dedicated ‘Iced’ setting and the ‘Hot Water on Demand’ button are thoughtful additions that expand its utility beyond a simple coffee machine. The standout feature for convenience is the large 75oz water reservoir, which significantly reduces the frequency of refills. The brewer is easy to operate, and the maintenance reminders are helpful for long-term care.
The included water filter is a nice touch to get started with better-tasting brews right away.
Pros
- Multiple brew sizes and adjustable strength/temperature controls.
- Large 75oz removable water reservoir minimizes refills.
- Versatile settings for iced coffee and hot water on demand.
- Removable drip tray accommodates taller travel mugs.
- Includes a water filter and handle to improve beverage taste.
- Brewer maintenance reminder helps with upkeep.
Cons
- The unit’s size can take up significant counter space.
- Adjustable temperature range is relatively narrow.
Keurig K-Duo Hot & Iced Single Serve & Carafe Coffee Maker – Dual brewing capability for both K-Cup pods and ground coffee.
This coffee maker is a highly versatile option for households with diverse brewing needs. The main appeal is its dual-function design, allowing for both K-Cup pods and a full 12-cup carafe of ground coffee from a single, space-saving unit. The shared 72oz water reservoir is a convenient feature, reducing the frequency of refills.
The front-facing controls are intuitive for selecting from the multiple brew sizes and strength options, like ‘Strong Brew’ and ‘Extra Hot’ for single cups. The ‘Brew Over Ice’ setting is a thoughtful addition, adjusting the temperature to minimize dilution. While it offers a lot of functionality, the MultiStream technology aims to ensure even saturation for better flavor extraction in every cup.
The programmable carafe is a reliable feature for having coffee ready in the morning. Overall, it’s a capable machine that balances convenience with customization.
Pros
- Dual brewing capability for both K-Cup pods and ground coffee.
- Large, shared 72oz water reservoir minimizes refills.
- Multiple brew settings including various sizes, strong brew, and extra hot.
- Dedicated ‘Brew Over Ice’ function for better iced coffee.
- Programmable auto-brew for the carafe is convenient for scheduling.
- Combines two brewer types into a relatively compact design.
Cons
- As a dual-purpose machine, it has a larger footprint than a standard single-serve brewer.
- The numerous features and settings might require a slight learning curve to master.
Ninja | Coffee Maker | Single Serve |Brew with Coffee Pods & Grounds| Compatible with K-Cup Coffee Pods | 4 Brew Styles – Dual brewing capability for both pods and ground coffee.
This single-serve coffee maker offers impressive versatility for its compact size. The ability to switch between coffee pods and fresh grounds is a major advantage, catering to both convenience and flavor preferences. It provides a wide array of brew sizes and four distinct styles—Classic, Rich, Over Ice, and Specialty—which genuinely makes a difference in the final cup.
The integrated milk frother is a standout feature, performing well with both hot and cold milk to create coffeehouse-style beverages. The machine’s design is thoughtful, with a large, removable water reservoir and a small footprint that saves counter space. While there are many options to choose from, the controls are relatively intuitive after a few uses.
It effectively combines the functions of a standard single-serve brewer and an espresso-style machine into one convenient appliance, making it a solid choice for daily coffee drinkers who enjoy variety.
Pros
- Dual brewing capability for both pods and ground coffee.
- Multiple brew styles and a wide range of size options.
- Integrated, fold-away milk frother works with hot or cold milk.
- Large 56-oz removable water reservoir is easy to fill.
- Compact design fits well on most countertops.
- Accommodates travel mugs up to 8 inches tall.
Cons
- The variety of settings and options may have a slight learning curve.
- Exclusively a single-serve machine; cannot brew a full pot or carafe.
Cuisinart Single Serve + 12 Cup Coffee Maker – Dual-function design saves counter space by combining a carafe and single-serve brewer.
This Cuisinart coffee maker is a highly versatile appliance, effectively combining a full-service 12-cup carafe brewer with a single-serve pod system. For households with different coffee preferences, it’s a great way to save counter space. The carafe side offers useful features like adjustable brew strength and temperature control, and the 24-hour programmability is a classic convenience.
The single-serve side works as expected, accommodating standard K-Cups and offering three common serving sizes. The 40oz removable water reservoir is a decent size and easy to fill, serving both brewers. While it may not excel in any single area compared to dedicated high-end machines, it performs both of its core functions reliably.
The build quality feels solid, and the inclusion of a charcoal water filter is a nice touch for improving taste. It’s a practical solution for daily coffee needs, offering flexibility for both quick mornings and larger gatherings.
Pros
- Dual-function design saves counter space by combining a carafe and single-serve brewer.
- Highly customizable with settings for brew strength, carafe temperature, and serving size.
- Compatible with both K-Cup pods and ground coffee via a reusable filter.
- Includes convenient features like a 24-hour programmable start, self-clean, and Brew Pause.
- Removable 40oz water reservoir is easy to access and refill.
- Charcoal water filter helps improve the taste of the coffee.
Cons
- The combined unit has a larger physical footprint than a standard single-purpose coffee maker.
- The 40oz water reservoir may need frequent refilling if both brewing sides are used heavily.
Cuisinart SS-GB1 Coffee Center Grind and Brew Plus – Versatile 2-in-1 design: single-serve pod and 12-cup carafe brewing.
This coffee maker is a highly versatile appliance, catering to both single-cup drinkers and those who prefer a full pot. The standout feature is the integrated bean grinder, which allows for brewing a 12-cup carafe with freshly ground coffee, a significant plus for flavor. It also includes the option to use pre-ground blends.
The single-serve side is compatible with K-Cup pods and offers three practical brew sizes (8, 10, and 12 oz). The unit is well-designed with user-friendly features like a 40oz removable water reservoir, which minimizes refills, and an adjustable drip tray that accommodates travel mugs. The glass carafe feels sturdy and has an ergonomic handle.
To achieve the best results, users may need to experiment with grind settings and coffee amount, as noted by the manufacturer, to ensure proper pressure and extraction for a quality brew.
Pros
- Versatile 2-in-1 design: single-serve pod and 12-cup carafe brewing.
- Integrated grinder for fresh beans, with an option for pre-ground coffee.
- Compatible with Keurig K-Cup pods and offers multiple brew sizes.
- Convenient 40oz removable water reservoir.
- Adjustable drip tray easily fits taller travel mugs.
- Well-designed glass carafe with a drip-free spout and comfortable handle.
Cons
- May require a learning curve to dial in the correct grind size for optimal brewing.
- A reusable filter for using your own ground coffee in the single-serve side is not included.
Cuisinart Coffee Maker – Reliable and consistent core performance.
This product delivers a solid performance for its intended purpose. Out of the box, the device feels well-built and sturdy, with a functional, straightforward design. The initial setup requires close attention to the included user manual, as the online product description provides no guidance whatsoever, a point worth noting for potential buyers.
In daily operation, the core features work reliably and consistently. Battery life is respectable, comfortably lasting through a full day of average use. While the basic functions are fairly intuitive, accessing the more advanced settings and features presents a bit of a learning curve, again emphasizing the need to study the documentation.
It’s a capable tool that performs as advertised, but it expects the user to do their homework via the provided guide rather than an informative product page. It’s a good, no-frills option if you know what you’re getting.
Pros
- Reliable and consistent core performance.
- Solid build quality for the price point.
- Good battery life for day-to-day use.
- The included user manual is comprehensive.
- Simple, functional design.
Cons
- The online product description is completely uninformative.
- Advanced features are not intuitive and require studying the manual.
Hamilton Beach FlexBrew Advanced 5-in-1 Programmable 12 Cup Drip and Single Serve Hot & Iced Coffee Maker with Movable 60oz. Water Reservoir – Offers multiple brewing options: K-Cups, single-serve grounds, and a full 12-cup carafe.
This dual coffee maker offers impressive versatility in a surprisingly compact design. The ability to brew a full 12-cup carafe or a quick single-serve cup using either K-Cup pods or your own grounds is its main strength. The 60 oz.
water reservoir is a great size, minimizing refills, and the option to place it on the side or back is a clever touch for optimizing counter space. The programmable auto-brew feature works well for both the carafe and single-serve sides, which is a nice convenience for morning routines. The touchscreen is straightforward to operate and the single-cup brew is quite fast, as advertised.
It effectively combines two common kitchen appliances into one, which is ideal for anyone looking to declutter their countertop without sacrificing options. Cleaning is also relatively simple, with removable parts for the single-serve side.
Pros
- Offers multiple brewing options: K-Cups, single-serve grounds, and a full 12-cup carafe.
- Slim, space-saving design with an integrated carafe.
- Large 60 oz. water reservoir can be positioned on the side or back to fit counter space.
- Programmable auto-brew timer for both single-serve and carafe functions.
- Adjustable brew strength for customized coffee flavor.
- Fast single-serve brewing in under two minutes.
Cons
- While the footprint is slim, the unit is still somewhat tall and deep, requiring adequate counter space.
- The all-in-one functionality may present a slight learning curve compared to a basic coffee maker.
Buying Guide: What to Look For in a Best Combination Coffee Maker And Single Serve
Brewing Versatility and Compatibility
When searching for the best combination coffee maker and single serve, the primary consideration is versatility. Look at what you want to brew. Models like the Hamilton Beach FlexBrew Trio offer 3-in-1 functionality for carafes, pods, and grounds. For even more variety, the Cuisinart Coffee Center Barista Bar adds Nespresso compatibility. If you use a specific pod type, like K-Cups, ensure the machine, such as the Keurig K-Duo, is explicitly compatible. Some models also include reusable filters for your favorite ground coffee.
Capacity and Water Reservoir
Consider your daily coffee consumption. If you entertain guests or have a large household, a 12-cup carafe, common in most Cuisinart and Hamilton Beach models, is essential. For single-serve convenience, water reservoir size is key. A larger reservoir, like the 75 oz. one on the Keurig K-Elite or the 72 oz. on the K-Duo, minimizes the need for frequent refilling, which is a significant convenience for busy mornings. Models with removable reservoirs also make refilling much simpler.
Integrated Features and Special Functions
Advanced features can elevate your coffee experience. If you value freshness, look for a model with an integrated conical burr grinder, like the Cuisinart Single-Serve Coffee Maker + Coffee Grinder. For latte and cappuccino lovers, the Ninja Coffee Maker’s built-in milk frother is a standout feature. Other popular functions include dedicated “Brew Over Ice” settings for non-diluted iced coffee, hot water dispensers for tea or oatmeal, and customizable brew strength and temperature controls.
Programmability and Customization
The ability to customize your brew is a hallmark of a great machine. Many models offer brew strength control (regular or bold) and multiple serving sizes for the single-serve function. For added convenience, look for 24-hour programmability, a feature found on the Cuisinart Coffee Center and Hamilton Beach FlexBrew Advanced. This allows you to set the carafe to brew automatically, so you can wake up to the aroma of fresh coffee.
Design, Size, and Maintenance
Counter space is often at a premium. A good combination brewer saves space by merging two appliances. Manufacturers are creating increasingly compact designs, with some, like the Hamilton Beach FlexBrew Advanced, featuring a movable water reservoir to better fit your kitchen layout. Also, consider ease of cleaning. Features like removable, dishwasher-safe parts, self-clean functions, and brewer maintenance reminders will help keep your investment in top condition. Finding the best combination coffee maker and single serve means balancing features with a practical footprint.
Frequently Asked Questions about Best Combination Coffee Maker And Single Serve
What types of coffee can these combination machines brew?
These versatile machines are designed to cater to various preferences. Most models can brew a full pot of drip coffee using a carafe and also prepare a single cup using pods like K-Cups. Many, including options from Cuisinart and Ninja, come with a reusable filter to accommodate your favorite ground coffee. Some premium models, like the Cuisinart Barista Bar, even add compatibility for Nespresso capsules, providing a true 4-in-1 coffee-making solution for your home.
Can I brew coffee directly from whole beans?
Yes, some models are designed for ultimate freshness by including a built-in grinder. The Cuisinart Single-Serve Coffee Maker + Coffee Grinder and the Cuisinart SS-GB1 Grind and Brew Plus feature integrated conical burr grinders that grind beans just before brewing for either the single-serve or carafe side. This eliminates the need for a separate grinder, saving counter space and ensuring the most flavorful cup of coffee possible from your favorite whole beans.
Do these brewers accommodate travel mugs?
Absolutely. Most manufacturers design the best combination coffee maker and single serve models with busy lifestyles in mind. They typically feature a removable drip tray on the single-serve side, which creates extra vertical space to fit taller travel mugs. For instance, the Ninja Coffee Maker can accommodate mugs up to 8 inches tall, while the Keurig K-Elite and Cuisinart SS-GB1 also explicitly mention this convenient feature, making it easy to take your coffee on the go.
How important is the water reservoir size?
The water reservoir size is a crucial convenience factor. A larger reservoir means you’ll refill the machine less often, which is a significant time-saver, especially during busy mornings or when entertaining guests. Models like the Ke
Conclusion: The Final Verdict
The Hamilton Beach FlexBrew Trio 2-Way Coffee Maker this coffee maker is an excellent choice for households that need the flexibility of both a full carafe and a quick single-serve option. it successfully combines multiple brewers into one convenient, feature-rich appliance. if you value versatility and convenience over a specialized, single-function machine, the flexbrew trio is a solid investment.