Pros:
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Does everything a coffee lover would want
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Includes phone app
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Convenient touch-screen controls
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Pods are eco-friendly
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Used pod storage
Home baristas and caffeine fiends, listen up! The Bruvi BV-01 Brewer is our favorite option for an all-in-one machine that makes café-quality drinks at the touch of a button. Boasting convenient touchscreen controls and true, high-pressure espresso capabilities, it’s akin to having an at-home barista.
Features like eco-friendly B-Pods, used pod storage and a helpful phone app round out this pricey pick. While the cost is higher than the other options, it’s built to last through years of use. Additionally, the phone app offers tons of functionality, including remote or scheduled brewing and easy pod ordering. It logs what type of pods you’re using and how many brews you’ve done. There’s even a chart that details your daily, weekly and monthly use—handy for those looking to track their caffeine consumption.
“I love that you can wake up to a brewed cup of joe via the app,” says Sheri. “Having the option to brew on ‘low acid’ mode and adjust the temperature are high-level features.”
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While the use of B-Pods may seem limiting, offerings include some of the best coffee brands. Klatch, Wonderland and Spellbinder are all available options, among dozens of others. Its many brew options are also laid out in a touch-screen menu that’s as simple to navigate as it is fun. While the coffee and espresso quality varies based on the brands you brew, we believe that the myriad options and heirloom quality make this machine well worth the higher price tag.
Pods/grounds: B-Pods only | Specialty drink or features: Coffee, true high-pressure espresso, Americano, cold brew, iced coffee, infused coffee and matcha latte, hot water | Cup clearance: 6.5 in. | Water reservoir size: 70 oz. | Brewing size: 6-12 oz., single or double shot espresso
Pros:
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Handsome look
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Compact
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Uses both grounds or pods
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Wallet-friendly
Cons:
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Must be refilled for each cup
For many of us, the best single-serve coffee maker machines are simple, small and stylish. Enter: The Haden Single Serve Coffee Maker. This mini-machine takes up only five inches of space, so it easily squeezes onto a crowded counter. At under 11 inches high, it also sits under shorter cabinet clearances. It comes in three stylish shades, including powder blue, ivory and handsome black and gold options.
The flexibility to use both grounds and pods makes it easy to brew your favorite organic coffee brands quickly. An adjustable nozzle that gives up to six inches of clearance fits both short and taller cups flawlessly. While the water tank only takes about a cup’s worth of liquid at a time, we do love the smaller footprint this provides. One-touch operation makes this an ideal option for those who prefer a simple cup to fancier frappes.
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Because it costs a quarter of the price of luxury options, it’s a good budget-friendly alternative. Plus, thanks to its rounded shape and chrome details, it looks just as luxe on a counter as the high-end options.
Pods/grounds: Both | Specialty drink or features: No | Cup clearance: 6 in. | Water reservoir size: 14 oz. | Brewing size: 6-14 oz.
What to Look for When Buying a Single-Serve Coffee Maker
Each cup of coffee is as one-of-a-kind as the person enjoying it. It’s important to consider your own routines and preferences when choosing a single-serve coffee maker. The most important considerations include brewing method, cup strength and temperature, special features, tank size and longevity.
Brew Method
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According to Sydney, it’s important to consider how each machine brews up its respective cup—especially for machines that produce “cold brew” or “iced” coffees, which tend to err on the watery side. Additionally, those who covet variety in their morning cup (or already have a coffee brand they’re loyal to) should opt for a machine that uses grounds rather than K-Cups or proprietary pods. Some machines even offer the flexibility to use both pods and grounds.
Cup Strength and Temperature
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While some machines offer a nice, strong cup, others use brewing methods and temperatures that produce a weaker cup overall. Those who prefer a more robust cup should seek machines with custom strength settings and higher temperatures—not too high, though, as temperatures over 205 degrees Fahrenheit may burn the grounds, giving the coffee a bad flavor. Those who prefer absolute control over their cup should opt for machines like the Bruvi BV-01 Brewer, which let you choose your own brew temperature.
Special Features
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In addition to strength, think about any special features you’d enjoy. While some single-serve coffee makers are relatively basic, others include bells and whistles that mimic an at-home barista. “I consider special features like frothers, Â built-in grinders or an iced coffee feature that actually does a good job and doesn’t make the coffee too watery big pluses,” says Sydney.Â
Tank Size
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Sydney also suggests finding a water tank with a good-sized water reservoir, as refilling it before brewing a cup is a tedious addition to morning routines. However, that depends on your space.
“Some have very large water tanks, which can be handy so you don’t have to refill as often but can be a detractor if you’re working with space limitations,” says culinary assistant Margaret Knoebel.
Longevity
Margaret also suggests considering longevity. This includes not just the machine’s durability, but also the required equipment and pods. “Some brands are more picky about using only their pods, which can be a detractor when your favorite flavor gets discontinued. Or worse, the machine stops being made!” she says.Â
Why You Should Trust Us
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Our Product Testing and Shopping Teams have a combined decade of experience testing and evaluating products. As purveyors of everything from the best coffee subscriptions to the best coffee products, we are passionate about our morning brew. We conducted all tests in our Product Testing Lab under controlled conditions to rate each brush’s performance. Our team spent an estimated 30 hours on this test, including researching, sourcing, intake and testing the products.
For this piece, we also consulted Sydney Manning, a former barista, Editorial Coordinator and Product Tester. Throughout the process, she provided guidance on what to look for in a single-serve coffee maker. We also spoke to culinary assistant Margaret Knoebel for additional insight.
Margaret is a culinary assistant at Taste of Home, where she prepares recipes for the photo studio and creates cooking videos. She tests the recipe contest submissions for Taste of Home, so if you submit recipes often, Margaret knows your name and loves to read about how you created each dish!
She’s an alumna of the Culinary Institute of America, where she earned degrees in baking and pastry arts. When not baking at work or at home, you can find Margaret reading or hanging out with her golden doodle, Annie.
How We Found the Best Single-Serve Coffee Maker
First, we located the top-selling single-serve coffee makers at several retailers, including Walmart, Amazon, Sur La Table, and Wayfair. We tested 14 machines, performing roughly 10 tests on each brewer. Testers brewed over 50 coffee drinks and collected more than 450 data points for this analysis.
To ensure the most apples-to-apples comparisons possible, all of these coffee drinks were made with Eight O’Clock Coffee Original Medium Roast Ground Coffee, Eight O’Clock Coffee Original Medium Roast K-Cups, and Eight O’Clock Coffee 100% Colombian Peaks Medium Roast Whole Bean Coffee.
All tea was made with Twinings of London English Breakfast Tea K-Cup Pods. The exceptions are coffee drinks made in the Nespresso, Lor and Bruvi machines, which take only proprietary capsules.
We evaluated each machine based on the following criteria: setup and assembly, specs, construction and appearance, performance, cleaning and value.
Setup and Assembly
Testers read the user manual, noting its clarity and helpfulness. They then set up and filled coffee makers and noted the ease of the process.
Specs, Construction and Appearance
For this category, we examine each appliance’s construction and overall look, measure the length of the cord and determine the height of the cup compartment. Notes on appearance also include:
- Buttons, toggles, screens, etc.
- Brewing size options (in fluid ounces)
- Specialty drink settings
- Water tank (capacity, removability, etc.)
- Pods/grounds
- Additional notable features
Performance
Testers brew at least three beverages in each single-cup coffee maker. They utilize as many settings as possible to get a feel for the breadth of the machine’s functionality. When available, we make a cappuccino, cold brew and regular cup of coffee in various sizes and with both grounds and pods. We make a strong and regular cup of coffee in various sizes for lower-level machines. For all machines, we also look at:
- Fluid ounce measurement
- Ease of use/intuitiveness
- Quality/taste of beverages
- Quality/durability of the machine
- Relative noise levels while in use
- Relative speed
For those machines that offer an iced coffee setting, we measure the temperature of the iced coffee directly after output. Testers try each beverage and gauge its quality/strength and the success of its execution if it’s a specialty drink. Testers then evaluate any accessories, such as a milk frother, on-unit storage or a water cycle.
Cleaning
Testers clean each one-cup coffee maker. We rinse the water tank, clean out the grounds if applicable and wipe down any splash marks. Then, we assess the ease of the process. We also examine:
- Manufacturer’s cleaning/care instructions
- Required cleaning solutions/products
- Dishwasher compatibility
Value
Value is the final consideration. Testers evaluate each single-serve coffee maker’s score and then look at the cost. We note whether or not each is worth the price, which indicates its value. Any warranty information also falls into this category. Lastly, we noted who each pick is best for (e.g. home baristas, morning rushers, those who enjoy variety, etc.).
We Also Tested
- Chulux Single Serve Coffee Maker: We liked that this option works with both grounds and K-Cups and it gets fairly hot. It also comes in multiple colors and is small and compact enough to fit in most kitchens. Unfortunately, testers note that this one “looks like a toy,” meaning it likely won’t last long with daily use. There are better, more robust options at a similar price.
- Hamilton Beach The Scoop Single Serve Coffee Maker: This basic, no-frills unit works well enough for most, and we appreciate the slim design. It includes a scoop and a reusable filter, making it rather eco-friendly as well. Unfortunately, it splattered a dangerous amount while brewing.
- Black+Decker Single-Serve Coffee Maker: While this one comes with a tumbler, it feels cheap, and the coffee doesn’t taste very nice. In addition, tester Sheri notes that she was surprised that before turning it on, the heating element appeared to be engaged. This makes us think that this machine should be immediately unplugged after use. Overall, we find it a safety concern.
- Bella Dual Brew Single Serve Coffee Maker: We found this machine perfect for the dorm room, camper or other small spaces and are impressed with the number of color choices. It uses both pods and grounds. That said, it’s rather pricey for such a basic performance.
FAQ
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What is the number one single-serve coffee maker?
According to our tests, the overall best-rated single-serve coffee maker is the Ninja Single-Serve Pods & Grounds Specialty Coffee Maker. Outfitting a coffee bar or looking for a reliable morning pick-me-up? In our tests, we find the Ninja Pods and Grounds brewer a reliable all-in-one that delivers a dang good cup quietly and quickly.
Is there a better option than Keurig?
Keurig has a reputation as one of the best coffee makers for single-serve cups. However, your best option depends on the coffee types you enjoy. Keurig offers a plethora of machines. They tackle everything from a simple steamy mug of coffee to iced beverages and tea. They’re easy to use and come in an assortment of setups that fit kitchens of all sizes.
On the other hand, some options, like the Bruvi BV-01 Brewer, offer additional bells and whistles worth considering. These include app controls and special brew settings for matcha tea, espresso shots and true cold brew. That said, there aren’t as many machine varieties to choose from, so your options are rather limited when it comes to look and size.
Is Nespresso better than Keurig?
While each of these top single-serve coffee maker brands uses similar brew methods, there are key differences. Keurig coffee pods come in a variety of brands and styles. Some make coffee, while others are capable of hot chocolate, tea and savory options like bone broth. It’s even possible to secure reusable K-Cup pods that you can fill with your favorite grounds.
On the other hand, Nespresso pods are proprietary. While a few pod kits allow you to fill your pods, these are more labor-intensive. However, Nespresso machines are built to expertly extract espresso. This makes them an excellent pick for coffee enthusiasts. The choice between Nespresso and Keurig really comes down to your own preferences.