The morning coffee ritual is a sacred moment for many, and the single-cup coffee maker has revolutionized this daily routine. Offering unparalleled speed and simplicity, these compact machines promise a perfect, fresh brew every time.
However, with a market flooded with countless models, finding the right one can be a daunting task. This guide is designed to cut through the noise, helping you identify the best top rated single cup coffee makers available today.
We focus on the crucial factors that define a great machine: brewing quality, user convenience, and overall value. Our comprehensive review will ensure you invest wisely in one of the best top rated single cup coffee makers to elevate your daily coffee experience.
IN THIS ARTICLE
Top 10 Best Top Rated Single Cup Coffee Makers Compared
π BEST OVERALL Keurig K-Elite Single Serve K-Cup Pod Coffee Maker
- Multiple brew sizes and strength settings (including iced coffee)
- Large 75oz removable water reservoir minimizes refills
- Dedicated hot water on demand button for non-coffee uses
- Adjustable temperature control for a customized brew
4.6/5
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π₯ 2ND RUNNER UP Elite Gourmet EHC-5055 Automatic 5-Cup Brew & Drip Coffee Maker with Pause N Serve Reusable Filter
- Compact size is ideal for small spaces.
- Extremely simple one-touch operation.
- Includes a reusable filter, reducing waste and cost.
- Pause ‘N Serve feature for mid-brew pouring.
4.3/5
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οΏ½ BEST VALUE Keurig K-Duo Hot & Iced Single Serve & Carafe Coffee Maker
- Versatile dual-brewing for both K-Cup pods and ground coffee carafes.
- Large, shared 72oz water reservoir minimizes the frequency of refills.
- Multiple customization settings including various brew sizes, a strong option, and an iced coffee mode.
- Space-saving design consolidates two separate appliances into one.
4.3/5
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Tastyle Single Serve One Cup Coffee Maker
- Compact and portable design is ideal for small spaces.
- Dual brewing capability for both K-pods and ground coffee.
- Simple one-touch operation and fast brewing time.
- Visible water tank with measurement markings for brew strength control.
4.4/5
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Keurig K-Mini Single Serve K-Cup Pod Coffee Maker
- Extremely slim and compact design is ideal for small spaces.
- Brews a single cup quickly, typically in just a few minutes.
- Removable drip tray allows for use with travel mugs up to 7 inches tall.
- Simple, one-button operation is very user-friendly.
4.5/5
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Pantrymade Deluxe 12-Cup Coffee Maker & Single Serve Brewer β Programmable
- Dual brewing options for both full carafes and single cups.
- Programmable timer allows for scheduled brewing.
- Compatible with both K-Cups and ground coffee for single-serve.
- Multiple brew sizes available for single servings.
4.5/5
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Keurig K-Supreme Single Serve K-Cup Pod Coffee Maker
- MultiStream technology provides a more robust and flavorful brew.
- Large 66 oz. water reservoir can be positioned on the side or back.
- Custom brew options including ‘strong’ and ‘over ice’ settings.
- Multiple brew sizes (6, 8, 10, 12 oz.).
4.4/5
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Keurig K-Express Single Serve K-Cup Pod Coffee Maker
- Strong Brew setting for a bolder coffee flavor.
- Versatile brew sizes (8, 10, 12 oz).
- Large 42oz removable water reservoir reduces frequent refilling.
- Accommodates travel mugs up to 7.4β tall.
4.6/5
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IMUSA USA B120-41V Aluminum Espresso Stovetop Coffeemaker 1-cup
- Compact and portable design is excellent for small kitchens or travel.
- Durable aluminum build effectively retains heat.
- Cool-touch handle and knob ensure safe and easy handling.
- Simple design with a side-pour spout allows for easy serving.
4.6/5
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Elite Gourmet EHC111A Personal Single-Serve Compact Coffee Maker Brewer Includes 14Oz. Stainless Steel Interior Thermal Travel Mug
- Very fast brew time, under 60 seconds.
- Extremely simple one-touch operation.
- Compact, space-saving design is ideal for small kitchens or offices.
- Includes a 12 oz. insulated stainless steel travel mug.
4.5/5
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Detailed Reviews of the Best Top Rated Single Cup Coffee Makers
Keurig K-Elite Single Serve K-Cup Pod Coffee Maker – Multiple brew sizes and strength settings (including iced coffee)
This coffee maker offers a solid range of features for the daily coffee drinker. The customization options are a major highlight, with five different cup sizes ranging from 4 to 12 ounces, plus a ‘Strong Brew’ button for a more robust flavor. I found the ‘Iced’ setting works well, brewing a concentrated shot over ice without tasting watered down.
The 75-ounce water reservoir is a significant time-saver, reducing the frequency of refills, and the hot water on demand is a convenient addition for tea or instant meals. The unit accommodates taller travel mugs, and the included water filter is a nice touch to improve taste from the start. The adjustable temperature control is a more advanced feature not always found at this price point.
Itβs a versatile and user-friendly machine that capably handles the morning coffee routine for a busy household.
Pros
- Multiple brew sizes and strength settings (including iced coffee)
- Large 75oz removable water reservoir minimizes refills
- Dedicated hot water on demand button for non-coffee uses
- Adjustable temperature control for a customized brew
- Removable drip tray accommodates tall travel mugs
- Includes a starter water filter and handle
Cons
- Does not include a reusable pod filter for using your own ground coffee.
- Replacement water filters are an ongoing cost.
Elite Gourmet EHC-5055 Automatic 5-Cup Brew & Drip Coffee Maker with Pause N Serve Reusable Filter – Compact size is ideal for small spaces.
This 5-cup coffee maker is a solid, no-frills machine that gets the job done. Its compact size is perfect for small kitchens, dorm rooms, or an office. The semi-transparent water reservoir is a helpful feature, making it easy to see how much water you’re adding and avoiding overflows.
Operation is as simple as it gets with a single on/off switch. I appreciate the included reusable filter, which is both environmentally friendly and saves money on disposable paper filters. The ‘Pause ‘N Serve’ function works as expected, letting you grab a cup before the full pot is ready without making a mess.
While it doesn’t have advanced features like a timer or auto-shutoff, it brews a decent pot of coffee quickly and consistently. It’s a reliable choice for anyone who just wants a straightforward coffee-making experience without any complicated programming.
Pros
- Compact size is ideal for small spaces.
- Extremely simple one-touch operation.
- Includes a reusable filter, reducing waste and cost.
- Pause ‘N Serve feature for mid-brew pouring.
- Clear water reservoir with level markings.
Cons
- Small 5-cup capacity may not be sufficient for households with multiple coffee drinkers.
- Lacks common features like an auto-shutoff function or programmable timer.
Keurig K-Duo Hot & Iced Single Serve & Carafe Coffee Maker – Versatile dual-brewing for both K-Cup pods and ground coffee carafes.
This dual-function coffee maker offers impressive flexibility, effectively combining a single-serve pod brewer and a multi-cup carafe machine into one unit. The primary benefit is saving counter space without sacrificing features. The shared 72oz water reservoir is a standout convenience, reducing the need for constant refills.
Its MultiStream technology seems to provide a consistent, well-saturated brew, and the specialized settings for ‘Strong Brew’ and ‘Brew Over Ice’ are welcome additions for customizing your drink. The front-facing control panel is intuitive, making it easy to navigate the various brew sizes and programmable options for the carafe. The pause-and-pour function is a small but practical detail that adds to its user-friendly design.
Overall, itβs a well-rounded machine that capably serves different coffee-drinking habits, from a quick single cup to a full pot for the family or guests.
Pros
- Versatile dual-brewing for both K-Cup pods and ground coffee carafes.
- Large, shared 72oz water reservoir minimizes the frequency of refills.
- Multiple customization settings including various brew sizes, a strong option, and an iced coffee mode.
- Space-saving design consolidates two separate appliances into one.
- Programmable auto-brew for the carafe is convenient for morning routines.
- Intuitive, front-facing controls are easy to use.
Cons
- Despite its ‘compact’ design, it will still occupy more counter space than a standard single-function brewer.
- The numerous features and settings may require a brief learning period to use effectively.
Tastyle Single Serve One Cup Coffee Maker – Compact and portable design is ideal for small spaces.
This single-serve coffee maker is a very practical choice for anyone with limited space. Its compact size and convenient to-go handle make it suitable for offices, dorms, or even an RV. The standout feature is its versatility, allowing you to brew with either K-pods or your own grounds using the included reusable filter.
Operation is incredibly simple with just one button, and it delivers a cup of coffee in about three minutes. The visible water tank, marked from 6 to 12 ounces, is a nice touch for customizing your coffee’s strength. I also appreciate the inclusion of a self-cleaning function and an energy-saving auto shut-off feature, which adds to its overall convenience and safety.
It’s a straightforward and efficient machine that does its job well without any complex settings, making it great for daily use.
Pros
- Compact and portable design is ideal for small spaces.
- Dual brewing capability for both K-pods and ground coffee.
- Simple one-touch operation and fast brewing time.
- Visible water tank with measurement markings for brew strength control.
- Features a self-cleaning function and energy-saving auto shut-off.
- Dishwasher-safe accessories make cleanup easy.
Cons
- Maximum 12 oz capacity may be small for users who prefer a larger mug of coffee.
- Requires a specific, high-output power bank (500W+) for true off-grid camping use.
Keurig K-Mini Single Serve K-Cup Pod Coffee Maker – Extremely slim and compact design is ideal for small spaces.
The Keurig K-Mini is a straightforward single-serve coffee maker that excels in its primary mission: saving space. At less than five inches wide, it fits comfortably in small kitchens, dorm rooms, or office nooks. Operation is simple: add water to the one-cup reservoir, insert a K-Cup pod, and brew.
It quickly produces a cup of coffee in sizes ranging from 6 to 12 ounces. The machine is also practical, featuring a removable drip tray to accommodate travel mugs and a neat cord storage compartment in the back. While it lacks any advanced settings like temperature or strength control, it delivers a consistent, fast cup for those who prioritize convenience and a minimal footprint.
The need to add fresh water for every single brew is a key characteristic to be aware of, but it ensures each cup is made with fresh water.
Pros
- Extremely slim and compact design is ideal for small spaces.
- Brews a single cup quickly, typically in just a few minutes.
- Removable drip tray allows for use with travel mugs up to 7 inches tall.
- Simple, one-button operation is very user-friendly.
- Integrated cord storage helps maintain a tidy countertop.
- Auto-off feature conserves energy.
Cons
- Requires adding fresh water to the reservoir for every individual cup.
- No brew strength or temperature control options.
Pantrymade Deluxe 12-Cup Coffee Maker & Single Serve Brewer β Programmable – Dual brewing options for both full carafes and single cups.
This dual-function coffee maker offers a practical solution for households with varying coffee needs. The ability to brew a full 12-cup carafe or a single serving is its main strength. The programmable timer is a convenient feature for having coffee ready in the morning, and the intuitive control panel makes it easy to operate.
For single-serve brewing, you have good flexibility with four different size options and compatibility with both K-Cups and ground coffee. The design is compact and fits well on most countertops without taking up excessive space. A key point to note is that the single-serve function requires you to add fresh water for each cup, which is an extra step but ensures a better-tasting brew.
The removable drip tray is also helpful for accommodating taller travel mugs. Overall, it’s a solid, versatile machine that performs as described.
Pros
- Dual brewing options for both full carafes and single cups.
- Programmable timer allows for scheduled brewing.
- Compatible with both K-Cups and ground coffee for single-serve.
- Multiple brew sizes available for single servings.
- Compact design is suitable for smaller kitchens.
- Easy to clean with a removable drip tray.
Cons
- Requires adding fresh water for each individual single-serve brew.
Keurig K-Supreme Single Serve K-Cup Pod Coffee Maker – MultiStream technology provides a more robust and flavorful brew.
The Keurig K-Supreme is a solid single-serve coffee maker that focuses on improving the quality of the brew itself. The standout feature is the MultiStream Technology, which is designed to saturate the grounds more evenly, resulting in a more flavorful and aromatic cup compared to older models. The user experience is straightforward, with simple button controls for selecting between four cup sizes (6-12 oz) and options for a stronger brew or a setting for iced coffee.
The 66 oz. water reservoir is a major convenience, and its dual-position design is a clever touch, allowing you to place it on the side or back to best fit your counter space. It brews quickly, is ready for a second cup immediately, and accommodates most travel mugs.
While it lacks premium features, it excels at its primary function: making a quick, consistent, and better-tasting cup of coffee.
Pros
- MultiStream technology provides a more robust and flavorful brew.
- Large 66 oz. water reservoir can be positioned on the side or back.
- Custom brew options including ‘strong’ and ‘over ice’ settings.
- Multiple brew sizes (6, 8, 10, 12 oz.).
- Fast, back-to-back brewing with no wait time.
- Accommodates travel mugs up to 7 inches tall.
Cons
- Lacks premium features like a built-in milk frother or a digital clock for auto-on functions.
- The simple button interface offers no temperature control.
Keurig K-Express Single Serve K-Cup Pod Coffee Maker – Strong Brew setting for a bolder coffee flavor.
This single-serve coffee maker is a solid choice for those seeking convenience and a bit of customization. The standout feature is the ‘Strong Brew’ setting, which genuinely enhances the coffee’s flavor for a more robust cup. It offers three practical cup sizes (8, 10, and 12 oz), catering to most daily needs.
The 42oz removable water reservoir is a significant plus, as it saves you from refilling after every single brew, handling about four cups before needing more water. The design is practical, with a removable drip tray to accommodate taller travel mugs and an energy-efficient auto-off feature that powers the machine down after five minutes of inactivity. While it’s compatible with a reusable filter for your own ground coffee, it’s important to note that this accessory must be purchased separately.
Overall, it’s a reliable machine that brews a good, quick cup of coffee without much fuss.
Pros
- Strong Brew setting for a bolder coffee flavor.
- Versatile brew sizes (8, 10, 12 oz).
- Large 42oz removable water reservoir reduces frequent refilling.
- Accommodates travel mugs up to 7.4β tall.
- Energy-saving auto-off feature.
- Fast brewing time, delivering coffee in minutes.
Cons
- The reusable My K-Cup filter for ground coffee is not included and must be purchased separately.
- Lacks smaller cup size options, such as 6 oz, which some users may prefer.
IMUSA USA B120-41V Aluminum Espresso Stovetop Coffeemaker 1-cup – Compact and portable design is excellent for small kitchens or travel.
This is a straightforward and compact coffee maker, well-suited for an individual’s daily routine. The aluminum construction feels durable and does a respectable job of keeping the coffee warm for a short period after brewing. Its small size is a major advantage for those with limited counter space or for anyone wanting a portable brewing option for travel.
The handling is safe and easy thanks to the cool-touch handle and knob, and the flip-top lid with a side-pour spout makes serving simple and clean. As noted by the manufacturer, achieving the perfect brew requires some user input. You’ll need to experiment with grind size, coffee quantity, and tamping pressure to get the results you want, which is typical for this style of Moka pot.
For a single user who enjoys a strong, espresso-style coffee, it performs its function reliably once you dial in your technique.
Pros
- Compact and portable design is excellent for small kitchens or travel.
- Durable aluminum build effectively retains heat.
- Cool-touch handle and knob ensure safe and easy handling.
- Simple design with a side-pour spout allows for easy serving.
- Perfectly sized for a single serving of strong coffee.
Cons
- Requires some trial and error with coffee grind and tamping to get a proper brew.
- Strictly a one-cup capacity, not suitable for making coffee for guests.
Elite Gourmet EHC111A Personal Single-Serve Compact Coffee Maker Brewer Includes 14Oz. Stainless Steel Interior Thermal Travel Mug – Very fast brew time, under 60 seconds.
This single-serve coffee maker delivers on its promise of a quick, simple cup of coffee. The sub-60-second brew time is genuinely impressive, making it ideal for rushed mornings. Operation is as straightforward as it getsβa single button starts the brewing process, delivering a hot, 12 oz.
serving consistently. The compact design is a major highlight; it takes up very little counter space, which is perfect for a small apartment, dorm room, or an office desk. The included 12 oz.
stainless steel travel mug is a thoughtful and practical addition, fitting perfectly under the spout so you can brew directly into it. While it lacks advanced features like brew strength adjustment or a programmable timer, it performs its core function reliably. It’s a no-frills device that brews a standard-sized cup of coffee quickly and efficiently.
Pros
- Very fast brew time, under 60 seconds.
- Extremely simple one-touch operation.
- Compact, space-saving design is ideal for small kitchens or offices.
- Includes a 12 oz. insulated stainless steel travel mug.
- Lightweight and portable for travel or moving.
Cons
- Limited to a single 12 oz. serving size.
- Lacks any advanced features like brew strength or temperature control.
Buying Guide: What to Look For in a Best Top Rated Single Cup Coffee Makers
Brewing Versatility: Pods, Grounds, or Both?
When choosing from the best top rated single cup coffee makers, a primary consideration is your preferred coffee type. If you value convenience, a pod-based machine like the Keurig K-Elite or K-Mini is perfect. For those who prefer to use their own coffee, models like the Elite Gourmet EHC-5055 include a reusable filter. For ultimate flexibility, dual-brew systems like the Keurig K-Duo, Tastyle, and Pantrymade Deluxe accommodate both K-Cup pods and ground coffee, giving you the best of both worlds.
Size and Kitchen Footprint
The physical size of the coffee maker is a crucial factor, especially for smaller kitchens, dorms, or offices. Models like the Keurig K-Mini, Tastyle, and IMUSA Stovetop Coffeemaker are designed to be extremely compact and portable. Conversely, if you want to minimize daily refills, a machine with a large water reservoir, such as the 75oz Keurig K-Elite or the 72oz K-Duo, is a better choice, though it will occupy more counter space.
Customization and Special Features
Consider what features will enhance your coffee experience. Many models offer multiple brew sizes, while brewers like the Keurig K-Elite and K-Supreme provide strength and temperature controls for a customized cup. If you enjoy other hot beverages, the K-Eliteβs dedicated hot water button is a major plus. For iced coffee lovers, the K-Elite, K-Duo, and K-Supreme all feature a specific “over ice” setting for a perfectly chilled, non-diluted drink.
Convenience and Ease of Use
Simplicity is key for a quick morning routine. Machines with one-touch operation, like the Elite Gourmet models and the Keurig K-Mini, are incredibly user-friendly. For those who like to wake up to fresh coffee, the programmable auto-brew feature on the Pantrymade Deluxe and Keurig K-Duo carafes is a game-changer. Other convenient features to look for include removable water reservoirs for easy filling, self-cleaning functions like on the Tastyle, and removable drip trays to accommodate tall travel mugs.
Frequently Asked Questions about Best Top Rated Single Cup Coffee Makers
Which models are best for very small spaces?
For those with limited counter space, several of the best top rated single cup coffee makers are designed to be compact. The Keurig K-Mini is extremely slim, and the Tastyle and Elite Gourmet models also boast a small footprint ideal for dorms or offices. The IMUSA stovetop maker is another excellent space-saving option, as it can be easily stored in a cabinet when not in use, offering a powerful brew without occupying permanent counter space.
Can any of these brewers use my own ground coffee?
Yes, several models offer the flexibility to use your own ground coffee, which can be more economical and environmentally friendly. The Keurig K-Duo and Pantrymade Deluxe are dual-brew systems that can brew both pods and a carafe of ground coffee. The Tastyle Single Serve model also has dual-brewing capability for both pods and grounds. Additionally, the Elite Gourmet EHC-5055 comes with a
Conclusion: The Final Verdict
The Keurig K-Elite Single Serve K-Cup Pod Coffee Maker overall, this is a highly versatile and convenient single-serve coffee maker. with its wide range of brew sizes, strength settings, and a large water reservoir, it’s well-suited for busy households with diverse coffee preferences. it’s a solid choice for anyone seeking a feature-rich brewer that simplifies the morning routine.