For countless coffee lovers, the day doesn’t truly begin until the aroma of a freshly brewed pot fills the air. While the concept is simple, navigating the vast market of coffee machines to find the right one can be a daunting task.
This guide is dedicated to simplifying that choice. We’ve meticulously evaluated the top contenders to help you find the best single pot coffee maker for your kitchen.
Choosing the right appliance isn’t just about convenience; it’s about investing in consistent quality, optimal performance, and long-term value. Let us guide you through the essential features and considerations to ensure your daily ritual is perfected by the best single pot coffee maker for your needs.
IN THIS ARTICLE
Top 10 Best Single Pot Coffee Maker Compared
π BEST OVERALL Hamilton Beach 2-Way 12 Cup Programmable Drip Coffee Maker & Single Serve Machine
- Dual brewing options for both a full pot and a single cup.
- Uses ground coffee, reducing pod waste and cost.
- Programmable timer and adjustable brew strength.
- Separate water reservoirs for each brewer side.
4.5/5
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π₯ 2ND RUNNER UP Hamilton Beach FlexBrew Trio 2-Way Coffee Maker
- Versatile 3-in-1 brewing: Full carafe, single-serve pods, or single-serve grounds.
- Fast single-cup brewing in approximately 90 seconds.
- Large 56 oz. water reservoir minimizes the frequency of refills.
- Programmable timer and brew strength selection for the carafe.
4.8/5
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οΏ½ BEST VALUE Elite Gourmet EHC114 Personal Single-Serve Compact Coffee Maker Brewer Includes 14Oz. Thermal Travel Mug with Stainless Steel Interior
- Includes a 14 oz. insulated travel mug, ready to go.
- Simple one-touch operation is very user-friendly.
- Comes with a reusable filter, reducing waste and saving money.
- Fast brew time is ideal for busy schedules.
4.3/5
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Keurig K-Duo Hot & Iced Single Serve & Carafe Coffee Maker
- Versatile dual-brewing for K-Cup pods and ground coffee carafes.
- Large, shared 72oz water reservoir reduces the need for frequent refills.
- Multiple brew sizes and strength settings for customized drinks.
- Dedicated ‘Brew Over Ice’ function.
4.6/5
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Instant Pot K-Cup Pod Compatible Single Serve Coffee Maker with Reusable Pod and Bold Setting
- Fast brewing cycle, delivering coffee in about 90 seconds.
- Large 40oz removable water reservoir reduces the need for frequent refilling.
- Pre-infusion feature extracts more flavor from coffee grounds.
- Compatible with K-Cups and includes a reusable pod for ground coffee.
4.3/5
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Hamilton Beach 2-Way 12 Cup Programmable Drip Hot and Iced Coffee Maker & Single Serve Coffee Machine
- Dual brewing functionality for both single-serve cups and a full 12-cup carafe.
- Multiple brew settings, including bold and a dedicated iced coffee option.
- Programmable up to 24 hours in advance with an intuitive touch display.
- Compact design saves counter space by combining two appliances into one.
4.4/5
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Keurig K-Express Single Serve K-Cup Pod Coffee Maker
- Large 42oz removable water reservoir minimizes refills.
- Multiple brew sizes (8, 10, 12 oz) and a ‘Strong Brew’ option.
- Accommodates travel mugs up to 7.4 inches tall.
- Energy-efficient with a 5-minute auto-off feature.
4.8/5
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BLACK+DECKER CM618 Single Serve Coffee Maker
- Extremely compact, space-saving design is ideal for small living areas.
- Brews directly into the included travel mug for on-the-go convenience.
- Automatic shutoff feature enhances safety and saves energy.
- Simple, one-touch operation is very easy to use.
4.4/5
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Elite Gourmet EHC113M Personal Single-Serve Compact Coffee Maker Brewer Includes 14Oz. Stainless Steel Interior Thermal Travel Mug
- Very fast brewing time, ready in under a minute.
- Includes a 14 oz. insulated stainless steel travel mug.
- Compact and lightweight design is great for small spaces.
- Uses coffee grounds with an included reusable filter, reducing waste.
4.7/5
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Mecity Coffee Maker 3 in 1 Single Serve Coffee Machine
- Versatile design brews both coffee pods and loose-leaf tea.
- Large 50 oz water reservoir reduces the frequency of refills.
- Compact, space-saving footprint is ideal for small countertops.
- Quick brewing cycle delivers a cup in 60-100 seconds.
4.8/5
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Detailed Reviews of the Best Single Pot Coffee Maker
Hamilton Beach 2-Way 12 Cup Programmable Drip Coffee Maker & Single Serve Machine – Dual brewing options for both a full pot and a single cup.
The Hamilton Beach 2-Way Coffee Maker offers impressive versatility by combining a full-pot carafe brewer and a single-serve station into one appliance. The setup is straightforward, with separate, easy-to-fill water reservoirs for each side, which is a thoughtful design feature. Programming a pot for the morning is simple, and the option to choose between regular and bold strength is a nice touch.
The single-serve side uses a mesh scoop for your own ground coffee, which is both economical and eco-friendly. It brews a decent cup quickly, and the auto pause-and-pour for the carafe works as expected. The 2-hour keep warm function with automatic shutoff provides peace of mind.
Overall, it’s a practical and functional machine that capably serves different coffee needs, from a quick single cup to a full pot for multiple people, without requiring proprietary pods.
Pros
- Dual brewing options for both a full pot and a single cup.
- Uses ground coffee, reducing pod waste and cost.
- Programmable timer and adjustable brew strength.
- Separate water reservoirs for each brewer side.
- Includes convenient features like auto shutoff and pause-and-pour.
- Easy to operate and clean.
Cons
- The single-serve brewer is not compatible with K-Cup pods.
- Takes up more counter space than a standard single-function coffee maker.
Hamilton Beach FlexBrew Trio 2-Way Coffee Maker – Versatile 3-in-1 brewing: Full carafe, single-serve pods, or single-serve grounds.
The FlexBrew Trio Coffee Maker is a genuinely versatile appliance, successfully combining a full 12-cup carafe brewer with a single-serve station. The single-serve side is impressively quick, brewing a cup in about 90 seconds, and is compatible with both pods and your own coffee grounds. The large 56 oz.
water reservoir is a significant time-saver, reducing the need for constant refills for single servings. For full pots, the programmable ‘wake-up’ feature is reliable, and the ability to choose between regular and bold brew strengths is a nice touch. I also appreciate the Auto Pause & Pour function for grabbing a cup mid-brew.
The single-serve side offers multiple brew sizes, accommodating anything from a small cup to a travel mug, thanks to the removable cup rest. Cleaning is straightforward with a dishwasher-safe carafe and removable parts, making it a solid all-in-one solution for households with varied coffee preferences.
Pros
- Versatile 3-in-1 brewing: Full carafe, single-serve pods, or single-serve grounds.
- Fast single-cup brewing in approximately 90 seconds.
- Large 56 oz. water reservoir minimizes the frequency of refills.
- Programmable timer and brew strength selection for the carafe.
- Multiple brew size options for single servings to fit different mugs.
- Easy to clean with removable parts and a dishwasher-safe carafe.
Cons
- The all-in-one design has a larger footprint than a standard coffee maker.
- Requires switching out the single-serve pod holder and grounds basket.
Elite Gourmet EHC114 Personal Single-Serve Compact Coffee Maker Brewer Includes 14Oz. Thermal Travel Mug with Stainless Steel Interior – Includes a 14 oz. insulated travel mug, ready to go.
The Elite Gourmet single-serve coffee maker delivers on its promise of a quick and convenient cup of coffee. The one-touch operation is incredibly simple, making it perfect for rushed mornings. It brews a hot cup in just a few minutes, and the included 14 oz.
insulated travel mug is a major plus, fitting snugly under the dispenser and in most car cup holders. The build is compact, so it doesn’t take up much counter space, which is ideal for a small apartment or office. I appreciate the reusable filter, as it eliminates the recurring cost and waste of paper filters and allows me to use my favorite ground coffee.
While it lacks advanced features, it reliably performs its core function: brewing a single, decent-sized cup of coffee efficiently. Itβs a practical, no-frills machine for a daily coffee drinker on the go.
Pros
- Includes a 14 oz. insulated travel mug, ready to go.
- Simple one-touch operation is very user-friendly.
- Comes with a reusable filter, reducing waste and saving money.
- Fast brew time is ideal for busy schedules.
- Compact, space-saving design fits well in small kitchens or offices.
- Uses fresh coffee grounds, offering flexibility in coffee choice.
Cons
- Single-serve capacity is not suitable for making multiple cups at once.
- Does not accommodate coffee pods or K-cups, only ground coffee.
Keurig K-Duo Hot & Iced Single Serve & Carafe Coffee Maker – Versatile dual-brewing for K-Cup pods and ground coffee carafes.
This dual coffee maker offers considerable flexibility for households with varied coffee preferences. The ability to brew single-serve K-Cup pods or a full 12-cup carafe from the same machine is its main draw, saving significant counter space. The shared 72oz water reservoir is a practical feature, minimizing refills for both brewing methods.
Customization is a key strength, with four brew sizes for both single cups and the carafe. Features like ‘Strong Brew’ and a dedicated ‘Brew Over Ice’ setting provide welcome control over the final cup’s intensity and temperature. The programmable timer for the carafe is a great touch for morning routines, and the front-facing controls are straightforward to navigate.
It’s a well-designed machine that capably handles different brewing needs, from a quick single cup to a full pot for guests.
Pros
- Versatile dual-brewing for K-Cup pods and ground coffee carafes.
- Large, shared 72oz water reservoir reduces the need for frequent refills.
- Multiple brew sizes and strength settings for customized drinks.
- Dedicated ‘Brew Over Ice’ function.
- Space-saving design combines two brewers into one unit.
- Programmable auto-brew timer for the carafe.
Cons
- The number of settings and options may present a slight learning curve.
- While compact for a dual brewer, its footprint is larger than a standard single-function machine.
Instant Pot K-Cup Pod Compatible Single Serve Coffee Maker with Reusable Pod and Bold Setting – Fast brewing cycle, delivering coffee in about 90 seconds.
The Instant Solo Single Serve Coffee Maker is a capable and efficient machine for daily use. Its compatibility with both K-Cups and ground coffee (via the included reusable pod) offers great flexibility. The pre-infusion cycle, which soaks the grounds before brewing, genuinely seems to produce a more aromatic and flavorful cup.
Brewing is impressively fast, under 90 seconds, with simple options for 8, 10, or 12-ounce cups. The 40oz removable water reservoir is a standout feature, significantly reducing the frequency of refills. Its compact footprint is ideal for smaller kitchens or office spaces, and the interface is very straightforward with touch-sensitive buttons and audible alerts.
The dedicated ‘BOLD’ setting for making pour-over style iced coffee is a nice touch for those who enjoy a cold brew. Itβs a well-designed machine that reliably handles the fundamentals of single-serve brewing.
Pros
- Fast brewing cycle, delivering coffee in about 90 seconds.
- Large 40oz removable water reservoir reduces the need for frequent refilling.
- Pre-infusion feature extracts more flavor from coffee grounds.
- Compatible with K-Cups and includes a reusable pod for ground coffee.
- Compact, space-saving design fits well on crowded countertops.
- Removable drip tray accommodates taller travel mugs up to 7 inches.
Cons
- Limited brew size options, with no choices smaller than 8oz or larger than 12oz.
- Lacks advanced customization for brew strength or water temperature beyond the ‘BOLD’ setting.
Hamilton Beach 2-Way 12 Cup Programmable Drip Hot and Iced Coffee Maker & Single Serve Coffee Machine – Dual brewing functionality for both single-serve cups and a full 12-cup carafe.
The Hamilton Beach 2-Way Coffee Maker is a highly versatile appliance, effectively combining a full-pot brewer and a single-serve machine into one compact unit. Its flexibility is a major plus, allowing you to brew a 12-cup carafe or just a single mug using your favorite ground coffee. The various brew settings, including regular, bold, and even iced coffee, provide great customization.
The programmable timer and touch display are straightforward to use, making it easy to have coffee ready when you wake up. The AquaFlow showerhead seems to do a good job of saturating the grounds evenly for a balanced pot. Features like the 4-hour keep warm, auto-shutoff, and pause-and-pour add to its overall convenience.
The separate water reservoirs are also a thoughtful touch, simplifying the refilling process for either brew side. It’s a solid, all-in-one solution for households with different coffee needs.
Pros
- Dual brewing functionality for both single-serve cups and a full 12-cup carafe.
- Multiple brew settings, including bold and a dedicated iced coffee option.
- Programmable up to 24 hours in advance with an intuitive touch display.
- Compact design saves counter space by combining two appliances into one.
- Convenient features like auto-shutoff and pause-and-pour.
Cons
- Does not support K-Cup pods, limited to ground coffee only.
- The reusable single-serve mesh filter requires cleaning after each use.
Keurig K-Express Single Serve K-Cup Pod Coffee Maker – Large 42oz removable water reservoir minimizes refills.
This single-serve coffee maker is a capable and convenient machine for daily use. The 42-ounce water reservoir is a standout feature, reducing the frequency of refills, which is great for busy mornings. It brews coffee quickly, and the inclusion of a ‘Strong Brew’ button is a welcome addition for those who prefer a more robust flavor profile.
It offers three standard cup sizes (8, 10, and 12 oz), providing decent flexibility. The design is practical, with a removable drip tray that easily accommodates taller travel mugs. The auto-off function is a nice touch for energy savings and peace of mind.
While it performs all its core functions well, note that the reusable filter for ground coffee is a separate purchase. Overall, it’s a solid, user-friendly brewer that delivers a consistent cup of coffee without unnecessary complexity.
Pros
- Large 42oz removable water reservoir minimizes refills.
- Multiple brew sizes (8, 10, 12 oz) and a ‘Strong Brew’ option.
- Accommodates travel mugs up to 7.4 inches tall.
- Energy-efficient with a 5-minute auto-off feature.
- Compatible with reusable K-Cup filters for your own coffee grounds.
Cons
- The reusable My K-Cup filter must be purchased separately.
- Lacks smaller cup size options (e.g., 4 or 6 oz) found on some models.
BLACK+DECKER CM618 Single Serve Coffee Maker – Extremely compact, space-saving design is ideal for small living areas.
This single-serve coffeemaker delivers on its promise of convenience and simplicity. Its compact design is a significant advantage, fitting easily on a crowded countertop, in a dorm room, or in a small apartment kitchen. The process is straightforward: add grounds, add water, and it brews directly into the included stainless steel travel mug.
The coffee comes out at a hot, appropriate temperature, resulting in a decent-tasting cup for a machine in this category. The automatic shutoff feature is a welcome addition, providing peace of mind for busy mornings when you might forget to turn off appliances. While it lacks the bells and whistles of more expensive models, it performs its core function reliably.
Itβs a practical, no-fuss appliance for anyone needing a quick, single cup of coffee to start their day without taking up much space.
Pros
- Extremely compact, space-saving design is ideal for small living areas.
- Brews directly into the included travel mug for on-the-go convenience.
- Automatic shutoff feature enhances safety and saves energy.
- Simple, one-touch operation is very easy to use.
- Heats water to an effective brewing temperature for good flavor extraction.
Cons
- Primarily plastic construction may not feel as durable as more premium models.
- Lacks any customization options for brew strength or temperature.
Elite Gourmet EHC113M Personal Single-Serve Compact Coffee Maker Brewer Includes 14Oz. Stainless Steel Interior Thermal Travel Mug – Very fast brewing time, ready in under a minute.
The Elite Gourmet single-serve coffee maker is a straightforward and efficient machine for anyone needing a quick, personal cup of coffee. Its main appeal lies in its simplicity and speed; brewing a fresh cup from grounds takes less than a minute with a single button press. The all-in-one design is a major plus, as it includes a 14 oz.
insulated stainless steel travel mug that fits perfectly, eliminating the need for separate cups. The reusable filter is a nice touch for reducing waste and saving money compared to pod systems. Its compact, narrow design is genuinely a space-saver, making it ideal for small kitchens, office desks, or dorm rooms.
While it lacks advanced features, it reliably performs its core function of brewing a hot cup of coffee quickly, and the auto-shutoff feature provides peace of mind for busy mornings.
Pros
- Very fast brewing time, ready in under a minute.
- Includes a 14 oz. insulated stainless steel travel mug.
- Compact and lightweight design is great for small spaces.
- Uses coffee grounds with an included reusable filter, reducing waste.
- Simple one-touch operation is very easy to use.
- Features an auto-shutoff function for safety.
Cons
- Brewing is limited to a single serving size (14 oz.).
- Lacks options for customizing brew strength or temperature.
Mecity Coffee Maker 3 in 1 Single Serve Coffee Machine – Versatile design brews both coffee pods and loose-leaf tea.
This single-serve coffee maker is a solid choice for those seeking convenience and versatility. Its operation is straightforward: add water to the 50 oz removable reservoir, insert a coffee pod, select your size (6, 8, or 10 oz), and you’ll have a hot beverage in about a minute and a half. A notable feature is its ability to also brew loose-leaf tea using the included filters, which adds value.
The compact design, at just over 6 inches wide, makes it suitable for small kitchens, dorms, or office spaces. Cleaning is also simplified with detachable, washable parts and a dedicated descaling function that alerts you when it’s needed. The BPA-free water tank and internal components provide good peace of mind.
Overall, it performs its core functions efficiently and offers practical flexibility for daily use without a complicated setup.
Pros
- Versatile design brews both coffee pods and loose-leaf tea.
- Large 50 oz water reservoir reduces the frequency of refills.
- Compact, space-saving footprint is ideal for small countertops.
- Quick brewing cycle delivers a cup in 60-100 seconds.
- Offers three different brew sizes (6, 8, and 10 oz).
Cons
- The 6.3-inch maximum cup height will not accommodate taller travel mugs.
- Lacks advanced features like brew strength or temperature control.
Buying Guide: What to Look For in a Best Single Pot Coffee Maker
Brewing Versatility: Single Cup, Full Pot, or Both?
Your first decision when searching for the best single pot coffee maker is how you prefer to brew. If you only need one cup at a time, a compact, single-serve model like the Elite Gourmet or BLACK+DECKER is efficient and space-saving. However, if you entertain guests or have a multi-coffee-drinker household, a dual-brewer like the Hamilton Beach 2-Way or Keurig K-Duo offers the flexibility to brew a single serving or a full 12-cup carafe from one machine.
Coffee Source: Pods vs. Grounds
Consider your preference for convenience versus cost and environmental impact. Pod-based systems, like those from Keurig, offer speed and simplicity. However, machines that use coffee grounds, such as the Hamilton Beach and Elite Gourmet models, significantly reduce waste and ongoing costs. Many versatile options, like the Hamilton Beach FlexBrew Trio and the Instant Pot model, are compatible with both K-Cups and your own grounds via a reusable pod, providing the best of both worlds.
Capacity and Footprint
The physical size of the coffee maker and its water reservoir are crucial. For small kitchens, dorms, or offices, a compact design like the Mecity or Instant Pot is ideal. Pay attention to water reservoir capacity; a larger tank (40oz or more), like those on the Keurig K-Duo or Hamilton Beach FlexBrew Trio, minimizes the frequency of refills, which is a major convenience for daily users. A smaller, personal brewer may require refilling for each use.
Convenience and Customization Features
Modern coffee makers offer features that elevate the brewing experience. Look for programmable timers on models like the Hamilton Beach 2-Way, allowing you to wake up to fresh coffee. Adjustable brew strength and multiple size options, found on most Keurig and Hamilton Beach brewers, let you customize your cup. Additional features like an iced coffee setting, auto-shutoff for safety, and pause-and-pour functionality add significant value and convenience to your daily routine.
Frequently Asked Questions about Best Single Pot Coffee Maker
What’s the difference between a single-serve and a dual-brew coffee maker?
A single-serve machine, like the BLACK+DECKER CM618, is designed to brew just one cup at a time, often directly into a travel mug. A dual-brew model, such as the Hamilton Beach 2-Way or Keurig K-Duo, offers greater versatility. It combines a single-serve brewer and a full-size carafe brewer into one appliance. This allows you the flexibility to make a quick cup for yourself or a full pot when you have company.
Can I use my own coffee grounds in these machines?
Yes, many of the best single pot coffee maker models are designed for use with your own grounds. Machines like the Elite Gourmet EHC114 and Hamilton Beach 2-Way specifically use ground coffee with reusable filters, which reduces waste and cost. Even many pod-compatible brewers,
Conclusion: The Final Verdict
The Hamilton Beach 2-Way 12 Cup Programmable Drip Coffee Maker & Single Serve Machine this coffee maker is a great solution for households with diverse coffee-drinking habits. it offers excellent flexibility and useful features, making it a solid choice if you want both carafe and single-serve options without being tied to a pod system.