Why Single Serve Coffee Maker Is Still Relevant In 2023
Single Serve Coffee Makers Comparison
Single-serve coffee machines can be used for a quick cup or cold brew. They can make use of pre-packaged bags of coffee or reusable filters filled with ground beans.
Coffee drinkers who value customization will want an appliance that can make a full pot of espresso or drip coffee shots. These machines are also designed to minimize the environmental impact of disposable coffee pods. They use capsules that are recyclable or reusable.
1. Keurig K-Elite
The K-Elite is a stunning machine that is a perfect blend of premium finishes and programmable features. It's among the most versatile Keurig models in terms of the types of drinks it can brew -- it can brew K-Cups and ground coffee and hot chocolate and tea. The large, reusable 72-ounce tank can produce up to seven medium-sized cups prior to needing refills. It's also compatible with reuseable K-Cup pods, which could save you money over the long term.
Despite having more buttons on its control panel than any other Keurig model, it's simple to use and navigate. The top control panel includes a power button, settings button, up and down buttons for the menu as well as a "strong" button that is hot water as well as four different sizes of brew and an "iced" button. A large, color-coded LCD display makes it easy to determine when the machine needs to descale or a refill.
The K-Elite is one of our top Keurigs however, it has some disadvantages. For example, it can be difficult to clean because it doesn't have a detachable drip tray and the lid isn't secured. The spout could also cause splatters when using shorter travel cups.
In our Coffee Makers Test Program we also tested the K-Elite and found it to perform well in all categories. It scored above average in first-cup speed as well as repeat speed and temperature consistency.
It was also the fastest to boil the water before brewing the cup. It was also the least likely machine to make grounds. However, the K-Elite was not able to create as hot of a cup as our other top models. The iced coffee also was less flavorful than its strong brew. The K-Elite is a great option for anyone seeking a single-serve machine. It is available at many retailers including Keurig, Amazon, Walmart and Wayfair. You can purchase it at around $150. The K-Classic model is also an option if need a lower-cost model. It's priced a bit higher than the Elite but isn't as costly as some of our other top choices.
2. BLACK+DECKER Single-Serve Espresso Maker
A single-serve coffee maker gives you the convenience of a hot cup of coffee on demand. These machines are smaller and more compact than drip models which makes them a great fit for small kitchens and dorm rooms. They can also be used to prepare a variety of different coffee drinks, including espresso-style shots and lattes. They are also simple to clean and operate making them an ideal option for busy households.
The BLACK+DECKER CM618 might be among the most affordable models on the market but it offers some key features which make it worth looking into. It comes with a permanent filter that works with ground coffee or soft coffee pods. It also comes with an automatic shut-off feature to save energy and water. It only takes just a few minutes to make a single cup of coffee, and it comes with a thermos travel mug that is compatible with most standard car cup holders (though you can use your own mug if you prefer).
In our tests the BLACK+DECKER was able to make a delicious pot of coffee with less than half the time it took the average model in our lab. It also has programs that are typically reserved for more expensive models like an auto start.
Its retro-styled design is perfect for those who prefer to blend their kitchen appliances. Its light construction and removable tank makes it easy to transport. It was fairly user-friendly with a touch-screen control panel that was simple and an easy menu that anyone can be able to comprehend. However, the brew time was not as good as we expected in our tests, and it wasn't capable of reaching 195°F for more than five or six minutes, which is the industry standard for the best flavor. The brew temperatures also were higher than the other models we tested and could result in burning or overheated coffee. Despite these issues the CM618 is a great option for people on a budget but want to brew their preferred K-Cup pods or their own ground coffee.
3. Nespresso Vertuo Single-Serve Coffee Maker
Nespresso machines differ from K-Cup and Keurig machines since they make use of their own coffee pods. The brand categorizes its pod-based machine into two categories which are VertuoLine and the Original. Original machines are designed to make espresso-based drinks. VertuoLine models are designed to make larger milk and coffee recipes, such as lattes and cappuccinos. Because they're intended to be used in tandem with Nespresso's reusable and sustainable capsules, the Original machines typically cost more than VertuoLine models.
The VertuoLine Nespresso XP371 offers four different sizes of drinks, intelligent capsule detection technology, and the company's signature centrifusion process for brewing. individual coffee brewer Coffeee has a modern and sleek design as well as an adjustable 37-ounce water tank. It is user-friendly and features an automatic system that lets pods empty inside a container that is built inside the machine. It takes between 15 and 20 seconds to warm up and then is shut down by itself after nine minutes.
In our tests, we discovered that the XP371 made a good cup. It had an excellent crema and was hot enough to enjoy in the morning without having to worry about burning your tongue. However, it was slower than other models to brew. It took 1 minute and 51 seconds to brew 7.7 ounces of coffee which was the third-lowest speed in our tests. This isn't a huge issue but it could be a problem if you're used to quick morning coffee and brews.
Overall the NespressoXP371 is an excellent choice for coffee and espresso lovers who wish to cut back on waste. Its design is more luxurious than other pod brewers. It's also compatible with Nespresso capsules that are more eco-friendly. The VertuoLine's price is high and its dependence on proprietary capsules could cause some buyers to be hesitant.
If you aren't able to purchase the best single-serve pod coffee maker but you still enjoy the convenience of using one-serve machines we suggest you check out our best reusable cups review. You could also consider one of our favorite tumblers that are insulated to keep your tea or coffee warm.
4. Cuisinart DCC-1200
This coffee maker has been praised by thousands of users for its convenience features and many other models do not have them. The price is reasonable for a machine of this quality and it has a sleek design. However, some users have reported this model as a potential fire hazard which is something you should be aware of if you are considering buying it.
The fully automated coffeemaker can be programmed for up to all hours of the day. You can program it to brew four cups or 12 at the same time, or one cup or four cups. The carafe has a thermal design and the permanent gold tone wire mesh filter and charcoal water filter eliminate impurities to enhance the flavor of your brew. There is a 30-second "Brew Pause" feature that stops the brewing process so you can pour a cup, and the self-cleaning function keeps the tank clean.
The controls on the coffee maker are evenly spaced and clearly marked, so you can easily identify what each button does at glance. Other features include a self-cleaning cycle and alerts to reduce the calcification of the carafe and tank as well as an automatic shutoff and a knuckle guard dripless spout that allows for a easy pouring. This coffee maker is also extremely user-friendly and its brushed stainless steel finish is stunning on the countertop.
However, some buyers have reported that the permanent gold tone wire mesh filter to be difficult to clean, and this could be a problem for those who prefer paper filters. Some users have also complained that the reservoir does not fill properly due to an error in the design that pushes water into the filter through a small hole in the back of the machine.
Some have complained that their Cuisinart coffee maker spills coffee grounds and water all over the counter while it's in operation but this appears to be an uncommon occurrence. It's a great coffee maker if you're looking for an affordable model that comes with many features that are convenient at a reasonable price.