The perfect morning often starts with a single, perfect cup of coffee. Single-serve brewers offer unparalleled convenience for busy lifestyles, but navigating the budget-friendly end of the market can be a challenge.
The term “cheap” frequently raises concerns about performance and durability. How do you find a machine that offers both excellent value and consistent quality without compromising on the taste of your daily brew?
It’s about making a smart investment, no matter the price point. This guide is dedicated to solving that problem.
We’ve sifted through the options to identify the best cheap single serve coffee maker for various needs. Our comprehensive review will help you confidently select the best cheap single serve coffee maker, ensuring your mornings are powered by a delicious, hassle-free, and affordable cup every time.
IN THIS ARTICLE
Top 10 Best Cheap Single Serve Coffee Maker Compared
🏆 BEST OVERALL 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 single-button operation.
- Compact, narrow design is excellent for small spaces.
- Includes a 12 oz. insulated stainless steel travel mug.
4.8/5
Check Price on Amazon
🥈 2ND RUNNER UP Horavie Mini Single Serve Coffee Maker for K Cup and Ground Coffee
- Dual-brewing capability supports both K-pods and ground coffee.
- Compact and lightweight design is ideal for small spaces like offices or RVs.
- Simple one-button operation with a fast brew time of around two minutes.
- Features a helpful self-cleaning function and descaling reminder.
4.5/5
Check Price on Amazon
� BEST VALUE Elite Gourmet EHC114 Personal Single-Serve Compact Coffee Maker Brewer Includes 14Oz. Thermal Travel Mug with Stainless Steel Interior
- All-in-one system includes a 14 oz insulated travel mug.
- Simple one-touch operation is very user-friendly.
- Reusable filter reduces waste and the ongoing cost of paper filters.
- Quick brew cycle is perfect for busy mornings.
4.8/5
Check Price on Amazon
Tastyle Single Serve One Cup Coffee Maker
- Versatile brewing options for both K-pods and ground coffee.
- Compact, portable design is ideal for small spaces and travel.
- Simple one-touch operation with a quick brew time.
- Visible water tank with measurement markings for customized coffee strength.
4.4/5
Check Price on Amazon
BLACK+DECKER CM618 Single Serve Coffee Maker
- Very compact and space-saving design, ideal for small kitchens and dorms.
- Conveniently brews directly into the included travel mug.
- Automatic shutoff feature provides safety and energy efficiency.
- Simple, one-touch operation is very easy to use.
4.7/5
Check Price on Amazon
Ninja | Coffee Maker | Single Serve |Brew with Coffee Pods & Grounds| Compatible with K-Cup Coffee Pods | 4 Brew Styles
- Dual brewing system accepts both K-Cup pods and loose grounds.
- Four brew styles and a wide range of size options offer significant customization.
- Integrated, fold-away milk frother for creating coffeehouse-style beverages.
- Compact, space-saving design with a large, removable 56 oz. water reservoir.
4.7/5
Check Price on Amazon
Keurig K-Mini Single Serve K-Cup Pod Coffee Maker
- Extremely compact and slim design is perfect for small spaces.
- Fast brewing cycle produces a cup of coffee in minutes.
- Accommodates travel mugs up to 7 inches tall.
- Simple one-touch operation with no complex settings.
4.7/5
Check Price on Amazon
Keurig K-Express Single Serve K-Cup Pod Coffee Maker
- 42oz removable water reservoir reduces the need for constant refilling.
- Multiple brew options with three sizes and a ‘Strong Brew’ setting.
- Accommodates travel mugs up to 7.4 inches tall.
- Fast brewing process delivers coffee in minutes.
4.4/5
Check Price on Amazon
Karosie Single Serve Coffee Maker for K-Cup and Ground Coffee
- Dual-brewing compatible with both K-pods and ground coffee.
- Very compact and slim design is ideal for small spaces.
- Fast brewing cycle for a quick cup of coffee.
- Simple one-button operation makes it easy to use.
4.4/5
Check Price on Amazon
BELLA Single Serve Coffee Maker
- Dual compatibility for both ground coffee and pods.
- Adjustable drip tray fits various mug sizes, including travel mugs.
- Compact, space-saving design is ideal for small kitchens or offices.
- Simple one-touch operation for quick and easy use.
4.5/5
Check Price on Amazon
Detailed Reviews of the Best Cheap Single Serve Coffee Maker
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 personal coffee maker is a solid choice for those who prioritize speed and simplicity in their morning routine. True to its description, it brews a single cup in about a minute with a straightforward one-touch operation. The process is incredibly simple: add water, coffee grounds, and press the button.
The included 12 oz. insulated travel mug is a significant bonus, fitting neatly under the dispenser to make the grab-and-go process seamless. Its compact and narrow design is its strongest feature, making it genuinely suitable for tight spaces like a dorm room, a small office desk, or a crowded kitchen counter.
It doesn’t have the bells and whistles of more complex machines, but it reliably delivers a hot cup of coffee quickly. It serves its purpose well as a basic, efficient, and space-saving coffee solution.
Pros
- Very fast brew time, under 60 seconds.
- Extremely simple single-button operation.
- Compact, narrow design is excellent for small spaces.
- Includes a 12 oz. insulated stainless steel travel mug.
- Ideal for portability and use in dorms or offices.
Cons
- Limited to a single brew size (up to 12 oz).
- Lacks any advanced features like brew strength or temperature control.
Horavie Mini Single Serve Coffee Maker for K Cup and Ground Coffee – Dual-brewing capability supports both K-pods and ground coffee.

The Horavie single-serve coffee maker is a versatile and compact machine, suitable for various settings. Its primary strength is the dual-functionality, allowing for the use of both K-pods and ground coffee, which is a significant convenience. The brew sizes are flexible, ranging from 6 to 12 ounces, catering to different preferences.
Operation is very straightforward with a single button, and it delivers a hot cup of coffee in about two minutes. The inclusion of a self-cleaning function and a descaling reminder is a thoughtful addition for long-term maintenance. Its small footprint makes it an excellent fit for small kitchens, dorm rooms, or office desks.
The BPA-free materials and water-level window are practical touches that enhance the user experience. Overall, it performs its core function reliably and efficiently, offering a simple solution for a quick coffee.
Pros
- Dual-brewing capability supports both K-pods and ground coffee.
- Compact and lightweight design is ideal for small spaces like offices or RVs.
- Simple one-button operation with a fast brew time of around two minutes.
- Features a helpful self-cleaning function and descaling reminder.
- Offers flexible brew sizes from 6 to 12 ounces.
- Constructed from BPA-free materials for safety.
Cons
- The water tank is not removable and must be refilled for each cup.
- Lacks advanced settings for brew strength or temperature control.
Elite Gourmet EHC114 Personal Single-Serve Compact Coffee Maker Brewer Includes 14Oz. Thermal Travel Mug with Stainless Steel Interior – All-in-one system includes a 14 oz insulated travel mug.

The Elite Gourmet personal coffee maker is a straightforward appliance designed for convenience and speed. Its primary strength lies in its all-in-one design, bundling a 14-ounce insulated travel mug that fits directly under the dispenser. The one-touch operation is incredibly simple, making it ideal for busy mornings when you just need a quick cup to go.
Using your own coffee grounds with the included reusable filter is a nice touch, offering both cost savings and a reduction in waste compared to paper filters or pods. The brew time is respectably fast, delivering a hot cup of coffee without much delay. While it lacks advanced features, it successfully accomplishes its core function: brewing a single, fresh cup of coffee directly into a travel-ready mug.
It’s a compact and practical solution for a simple daily coffee routine.
Pros
- All-in-one system includes a 14 oz insulated travel mug.
- Simple one-touch operation is very user-friendly.
- Reusable filter reduces waste and the ongoing cost of paper filters.
- Quick brew cycle is perfect for busy mornings.
- Compact design saves counter space.
- Allows use of any preferred ground coffee.
Cons
- Limited to a single serving size per brew.
- Lacks programmable features like brew strength or temperature control.
Tastyle Single Serve One Cup Coffee Maker – Versatile brewing options for both K-pods and ground coffee.

This single-serve coffee maker is a solid option for anyone with limited space or in need of a portable brewing solution. Its compact design and carrying handle make it genuinely convenient for offices, dorms, or RVs. The ability to use both K-pods and ground coffee is a major plus, and the included reusable filter with a lid is a thoughtful touch.
Operation is very straightforward—just add water to your desired level using the visible markings (6 to 12 oz), insert your coffee, and press a single button. The auto shut-off and self-cleaning functions are practical features that add to its convenience and long-term maintenance. While it’s marketed for camping, it’s important to note the specific power requirements for off-grid use.
For everyday situations with a standard outlet, it performs reliably and efficiently, delivering a decent cup of coffee in about three minutes.
Pros
- Versatile brewing options for both K-pods and ground coffee.
- Compact, portable design is ideal for small spaces and travel.
- Simple one-touch operation with a quick brew time.
- Visible water tank with measurement markings for customized coffee strength.
- Features convenient auto shut-off and self-cleaning functions.
- BPA-free materials and ETL certified for safety.
Cons
- Requires a specific, high-output power bank (100V/500W+) for camping use, which is not standard.
- Brewing time is significantly longer when operating on lower voltage from a power bank.
BLACK+DECKER CM618 Single Serve Coffee Maker – Very compact and space-saving design, ideal for small kitchens and dorms.

This single-serve coffeemaker is a practical choice for anyone with limited counter space. Its compact design is well-suited for small kitchens, dorm rooms, or even an office desk. The machine functions exactly as described, brewing a single cup directly into the included stainless steel travel mug, which is a convenient feature for busy mornings.
The brewing process is straightforward, and the water heats to a suitable temperature that extracts good flavor from the coffee grounds. One of the most useful features is the automatic shutoff, which provides peace of mind by turning the unit off immediately after the brew cycle is complete. While it lacks the advanced settings of larger models, its simplicity is its core strength.
It’s a reliable, no-frills device for getting a quick, personal cup of coffee without any hassle.
Pros
- Very compact and space-saving design, ideal for small kitchens and dorms.
- Conveniently brews directly into the included travel mug.
- Automatic shutoff feature provides safety and energy efficiency.
- Simple, one-touch operation is very easy to use.
Cons
- Strictly a single-serve machine, not suitable for making multiple cups at once.
- Lacks advanced features like brew strength or temperature control.
Ninja | Coffee Maker | Single Serve |Brew with Coffee Pods & Grounds| Compatible with K-Cup Coffee Pods | 4 Brew Styles – Dual brewing system accepts both K-Cup pods and loose grounds.

This single-serve coffee maker offers impressive versatility for its compact size. A key feature is the dual brewing capability, allowing users to choose between the convenience of coffee pods or the customizability of their own grounds. It provides a wide range of brewing options, including four distinct styles—Classic, Rich, Over Ice, and Specialty—and numerous cup sizes for both pods and grounds, from 6 to 24 ounces.
The addition of a built-in, fold-away milk frother and a specialty concentrate setting makes it easy to create coffeehouse-style drinks like lattes and cappuccinos at home. Practical design elements include a removable 56-ounce water reservoir for easy refilling, a brew basket storage drawer, and the ability to accommodate travel mugs up to 8 inches tall. This machine seems well-suited for those who value variety in their daily coffee routine without sacrificing countertop space.
Pros
- Dual brewing system accepts both K-Cup pods and loose grounds.
- Four brew styles and a wide range of size options offer significant customization.
- Integrated, fold-away milk frother for creating coffeehouse-style beverages.
- Compact, space-saving design with a large, removable 56 oz. water reservoir.
- Specialty brew function creates a coffee concentrate for lattes and cappuccinos.
- Accommodates travel mugs up to 8 inches tall.
Cons
- Strictly a single-serve machine; it cannot brew a full pot or carafe of coffee.
- With numerous settings, there may be a slight learning curve to find the perfect brew.
Keurig K-Mini Single Serve K-Cup Pod Coffee Maker – Extremely compact and slim design is perfect for small spaces.

The Keurig K-Mini is a straightforward single-serve coffee maker designed with one primary goal: saving space. At less than five inches wide, it lives up to its promise, fitting easily into tight spots in dorm rooms, small apartments, or on a crowded office desk. The brewing process is simple: add 6 to 12 ounces of water to the one-cup reservoir, insert a K-Cup pod, and press the button.
Coffee is ready in a couple of minutes. The machine feels basic, lacking any temperature or strength controls. The auto-off feature is a nice touch for energy savings, and the removable drip tray is practical for fitting taller travel mugs.
While you have to refill the water for every single cup, it’s a trade-off for its ultra-compact size. It’s a no-frills machine that reliably delivers a quick, standard cup of coffee when you need it.
Pros
- Extremely compact and slim design is perfect for small spaces.
- Fast brewing cycle produces a cup of coffee in minutes.
- Accommodates travel mugs up to 7 inches tall.
- Simple one-touch operation with no complex settings.
- Energy-efficient with an automatic shut-off feature.
- Compatible with a reusable filter for using your own ground coffee.
Cons
- The one-cup reservoir requires you to add fresh water for every brew.
- Lacks advanced features like brew strength or temperature control.
Keurig K-Express Single Serve K-Cup Pod Coffee Maker – 42oz removable water reservoir reduces the need for constant refilling.

This single-serve coffee maker is a solid performer for daily use, offering a good balance of convenience and basic customization. The 42oz removable water reservoir is a standout feature, as it saves you from refilling before every single cup. Brewing is quick, and the choice of three cup sizes (8, 10, and 12 oz) is practical for most needs.
The ‘Strong Brew’ button provides a noticeable boost in flavor for those who prefer a more robust coffee. I also appreciate the thoughtful design elements like the removable drip tray, which easily accommodates taller travel mugs, and the energy-saving auto-off feature that powers down the machine five minutes after the last brew. While it doesn’t have the advanced settings of a high-end model, it reliably delivers a fresh, hot cup of coffee with minimal fuss, making it a dependable choice for a straightforward brewing experience.
Pros
- 42oz removable water reservoir reduces the need for constant refilling.
- Multiple brew options with three sizes and a ‘Strong Brew’ setting.
- Accommodates travel mugs up to 7.4 inches tall.
- Fast brewing process delivers coffee in minutes.
- Energy-efficient auto-off feature after 5 minutes of inactivity.
- Compatible with reusable filters for using your own ground coffee.
Cons
- The reusable My K-Cup filter is an essential accessory for flexibility but must be purchased separately.
- The 42oz reservoir, while convenient for one person, may require frequent refilling in a multi-user household.
Karosie Single Serve Coffee Maker for K-Cup and Ground Coffee – Dual-brewing compatible with both K-pods and ground coffee.

The Karosie single-serve coffee maker is a versatile and compact machine, ideal for personal use. Its primary strength lies in its dual-brewing capability, allowing you to use either K-pods or your own ground coffee, which caters to different tastes. The operation is straightforward with a single button, and it brews a cup quite rapidly, claiming as little as two minutes for a 12oz serving.
Its slim profile is genuinely space-saving, making it a great fit for small kitchens, dorms, or office environments. The visible water window is a nice feature for controlling the strength of your coffee, and the addition of a self-cleaning function and descaling indicator are practical for long-term maintenance. Built from BPA-free materials, it also addresses safety concerns.
Overall, it’s a functional and efficient coffee maker for a quick, no-fuss cup.
Pros
- Dual-brewing compatible with both K-pods and ground coffee.
- Very compact and slim design is ideal for small spaces.
- Fast brewing cycle for a quick cup of coffee.
- Simple one-button operation makes it easy to use.
- Includes a self-cleaning function and descaling indicator for maintenance.
- Visible water reservoir allows for control over brew strength.
Cons
- The single-serve water tank requires refilling for each cup.
- Maximum brew size is limited to 12 ounces, which may not fit larger travel mugs.
BELLA Single Serve Coffee Maker – Dual compatibility for both ground coffee and pods.

The Bella Single-Serve Coffee Maker is a solid choice for anyone seeking a straightforward and compact brewing solution. Its main appeal lies in its versatility, offering compatibility with both ground coffee and standard pods, which is a great feature. The machine allows you to brew various sizes, from a small 6oz cup up to a 14oz travel mug, and the adjustable drip tray accommodates taller cups easily.
The 14oz water reservoir is perfectly sized for the maximum brew, so you don’t have to refill it mid-cycle. Operation is simple with a single-touch button, making it ideal for busy mornings. While it lacks advanced features like brew strength or temperature control, its simplicity is part of its charm.
Cleanup is also convenient, with the filter, pod adapter, and drip tray being dishwasher-safe. It’s a practical, no-fuss machine for daily coffee needs.
Pros
- Dual compatibility for both ground coffee and pods.
- Adjustable drip tray fits various mug sizes, including travel mugs.
- Compact, space-saving design is ideal for small kitchens or offices.
- Simple one-touch operation for quick and easy use.
- Dishwasher-safe parts make for hassle-free cleanup.
Cons
- Water reservoir needs to be refilled for each large brew.
- Lacks advanced settings like brew strength or temperature control.
Buying Guide: What to Look For in a Best Cheap Single Serve Coffee Maker
Brewing Compatibility: Pods vs. Ground Coffee
A primary consideration is how you prefer to make your coffee. Many models, like the Horavie, Tastyle, and Ninja, offer dual-brewing capability, allowing you to use both K-Cup pods for convenience and your own ground coffee for freshness and variety. Others, such as the Elite Gourmet and BLACK+DECKER models, are designed specifically for ground coffee and often include a reusable filter. If you value versatility, a dual-system is an excellent choice for a best cheap single serve coffee maker.
Size, Design, and Portability
Single-serve coffee makers excel at saving counter space. Models like the Keurig K-Mini and Elite Gourmet EHC111A are highlighted for their extremely compact and narrow designs, making them perfect for dorm rooms, small apartments, offices, or even RVs. When choosing, consider the machine’s footprint and whether its portability is a priority for you. A lightweight, compact design is a key feature for those who need a coffee solution on the go or have limited kitchen real estate.
Speed and Ease of Use
For busy mornings, brew time and simplicity are crucial. Most of the top options feature a simple, one-touch button operation, removing any guesswork from the process. The Elite Gourmet EHC111A boasts an impressive brew time of under 60 seconds, while others like the Horavie and Keurig models brew a fresh cup in just a few minutes. If efficiency is your top priority, look for a machine that emphasizes a quick brew cycle and straightforward operation.
Customization and Advanced Features
While searching for the best cheap single serve coffee maker, you’ll find a range of features. Some brewers, like the Keurig K-Express, offer multiple brew sizes and a ‘Strong Brew’ setting. The Ninja model takes customization further with four brew styles and an integrated milk frother. Other convenient features to look for include self-cleaning functions (Horavie, Tastyle), auto shut-off for safety and energy savings (BLACK+DECKER, Keurig), and removable water reservoirs for easier refilling (Keurig K-Express, Ninja).
Included Accessories and Mug Compatibility
Many budget-friendly brewers come as all-in-one systems. The Elite Gourmet and BLACK+DECKER models, for instance, include an insulated stainless steel travel mug that the coffee brews directly into, adding significant value. It’s also important to check the drip tray or brew space. Models like the Keurig K-Express and Ninja are specifically designed to accommodate taller travel mugs, while the BELLA coffee maker features an adjustable drip tray to fit various cup sizes.
Frequently Asked Questions about Best Cheap Single Serve Coffee Maker
Can I use my own coffee grounds in these machines?
Yes, many models are designed for this. Products from brands like Elite Gourmet and BLACK+DECKER are made specifically for ground coffee and include a reusable filter. Furthermore, dual-brewing machines from Horavie, Tastyle, Ninja, and Karosie accept both pods and grounds. Even pod-centric brewers like the Keurig K-Mini and K-Express are compatible with a separately purchased reusable K-Cup filter, giving you the flexibility to use any coffee you prefer, making them a great best cheap single serve coffee maker.
Which models are best for extremely small spaces?
For very tight spaces like dorm rooms, office desks, or RVs, the most compact options are ideal. The Keurig K-Mini is specifically praised for its slim, 5-inch wide design. Similarly, the Elite Gourmet EHC111A and the BLACK+DECKER CM618 are highlighted for their narrow, space-saving footprints. These models prioritize a minimal design to deliver a great cup of coffee without cluttering your countertop, making them excellent choices when space is the
Conclusion: The Final Verdict
The Elite Gourmet EHC111A Personal Single-Serve Compact Coffee Maker Brewer Includes 14Oz. Stainless Steel Interior Thermal Travel Mug this is a no-frills machine that excels at making a basic cup of coffee quickly and conveniently. it is highly recommended for students, office workers, or anyone with limited space who values speed over customizable features.