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7 Best Single Serve Coffee Makers of 2023 [Tested and Reviewed]

7 Best Single Serve Coffee Makers of 2023 [Tested and Reviewed]

Single-serve coffee makers allow you to enjoy a full-flavored cup of coffee by simply popping a pod in the machine. While big brands like Keurig and Cuisinart are often the go-to choices, finding the perfect machine that's easy to use daily and brews delicious coffee can be a challenge.

We've compared 7 bestselling single-serve coffee makers available online and put them to the test to recommend the best one for you.

We tested each product for the following:

  • Ease of use
  • Ease of cleaning
  • Taste (by expert)
  • Ones that brew fast
  • Ones that are quiet
  • Ones with a lot of drink choices

Which product ended up being the best of the best? We'll also tell you how to pick the best single-serve coffee maker on your own in our buying guide, so read on for more shopping tips.

Last updated 09/19/2023
Ryo Ito
Expert
Coffee and Brewing Equipment Specialist
Ryo Ito

Ryo Ito, also known as John, is the Managing Director of Bathtub Ltd. and a coffee specialist. After gaining experience working in several coffee shops, he founded BATHTUB COFFEE in 2018. With a mission of providing opportunities to baristas, he imports and sells coffee brewing equipment and coffee beans and conducts workshops. In 2021, John designed and released his first original brewing equipment, SIMPLIFY the Brewer. It is currently sold in over 25 countries, as well as in Japan.

Ryo Ito's Profile
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Daisuke Ainoya
Guide
Head of Kitchen and Coffee at mybest
Daisuke Ainoya

For seven years, Daisuke has served specialty coffees as a barista and taught hand-drip latte art seminars. Currently, at mybest, he conducts the verification for all coffee-related products and equipment, including major manufacturers such as Kalita, Hario, and De'longhi, and specialty coffee brands such as Starbucks, UCC, Maruyama Coffee, and Blue Bottle Coffee. He creates content with the motto of "making ordinary coffee more delicious" by utilizing his experience as a barista. In addition, he also operates his own coffee roastery.

Daisuke Ainoya's Profile
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How We Tested the Products

Scroll to testing method
We gathered the 7 bestselling Single Serve Coffee Makers and put them through rigorous testing.
  1. Ease of use

    1
    Ease of use

    When choosing a single-serve coffee maker, usability is a crucial factor. We looked for products that can be used daily without stress, evaluating them based on the following six aspects.Ease of setting the podEase of refilling the waterClarity of buttonsEase of adjusting the flavorWhether water splashes during brewingUsability of additional features (grinder, hot water, frother, timer, etc.)

  2. Ease of cleaning

    2
    Ease of cleaning

    For daily use, easy cleaning is a must. We sought products that are easy to maintain and keep clean, evaluating them based on the following four aspects.Is the pod holder easy to clean?Is there space to store used pods?Is the brewing spout prone to dripping?Is the inside of the body easy to clean?

  3. Taste (by expert)

    3
    Taste (by expert)

    The ability to brew delicious coffee that you'll want to drink every day is essential. We had a barista taste coffee brewed from all the products using the following six aspects to evaluate the quality of aroma, flavor balance, and texture.FlavorBodySweetnessBitternessAcidityAftertasteThe following pods were used for testing:Starbucks' Pike Place® Roast CoffeeDunkin's Original Blend Coffee

  4. Ones that brew fast

    4
    Ones that brew fast

    For those short on time, a quick brew time is a necessity. We timed how long it took to brew eight ounces of coffee and gave higher ratings to machines that could complete a brew in under two minutes.

  5. Ones that are quiet

    5
    Ones that are quiet

    The noise level may be a concern for those living with others or using the machine early in the morning or late at night. We placed a noise meter about six inches from the body and measured the operation noise, rating products under 60 decibels highly.Note that we only measured the noise of the motor and machinery, not the sound of water hitting the cup.

  6. Ones with a lot of drink choices

    6
    Ones with a lot of drink choices

    The variety of pods available might also be a consideration if you like to explore different flavors or enjoy drinks other than black coffee. We researched the types of pods each product supports, rating those with over 30 varieties highly. We only considered the types of pods officially recommended and regularly available, excluding limited-edition or seasonal flavors.Please note that we did not include limited-edition flavors, seasonal offerings, or pods not officially recommended in our evaluation. The results reflect only the types of pods that are officially recommended and regularly available.

All product tests
were conducted in-house at mybest

Company Facility
The expert oversees the Buying Guide only, and does not determine the products and services featured.The mybest team independently conducts its own tests to rank products.

Table of Contents

What's the Difference Between Single-Serve and Regular Coffee Makers?

With No Beans to Measure and Easy Cleaning, It's All About Convenience!

With No Beans to Measure and Easy Cleaning, It's All About Convenience!

The best thing about single-serve coffee makers is their convenience. Unlike drip coffee machines that require a dripper and filter, all you need with a single-serve coffee maker is a pod and water.


With drip coffee makers, you have to measure and refill the grounds every time you use them. But with single-serve machines, you just pop in a pre-filled coffee pod. You can easily adjust the flavor and intensity by changing the amount of water used for brewing, making it a great option if you like a little variety.


Ease of cleaning is another appealing feature. While drip coffee makers require you to wash the mill and dripper after each use, you simply throw away the pod after using a single-serve machine. The water reservoir and brewing spout are also a cinch to clean, so they're arguably the easiest type of coffee maker to maintain.

Twice as Quiet as a Coffee Maker With Grinder

Twice as Quiet as a Coffee Maker With Grinder

Another advantage of single-serve coffee makers is how quiet they are. This does vary between brands, but overall, none would be considered excessively noisy.


In our tests, we measured the noise level of different machines from about six inches away. The fully automatic coffee makers with built-in grinders were quite loud, with an average noise level of over 90 decibels. In contrast, the seven single-serve coffee makers we tested averaged just 58.7 decibels, which was much quieter.


Since there's no noisy grinder, you'll only hear the soft sound of the motor heating the water. This means you can enjoy a cup of coffee early in the morning or late at night without worrying about disturbing anyone.

What's the Running Cost of Single-Serve Coffee Pods?

The Cost per Cup Is Around $0.60

The Cost per Cup Is Around $0.60

The pods for a single-serve coffee maker cost around $0.60 each. The price may vary slightly depending on the type of pods compatible with your machine, but you can definitely enjoy a cup of coffee for less than a dollar.


It's true that a home-brewed coffee may not be quite as high quality as one carefully prepared by a coffee shop barista. However, a single-serve coffee maker is an excellent choice if you're not too particular about the subtle difference in taste and still want to enjoy delicious, freshly brewed coffee every day.

How to Choose Single Serve Coffee Makers

Here are the points to keep in mind when choosing the best Single Serve Coffee Makers.

1

If You Want to Enjoy Delicious Coffee on a Busy Morning, Ninja Is the Stand-Out Choice

If You Want to Enjoy Delicious Coffee on a Busy Morning, Ninja Is the Stand-Out Choice

The product that earned the highest marks in our tests for ease of use, taste, quick brewing time, quietness, and variety of compatible pods was Ninja's DualBrew System. Let's dive into what made it stand out.

Enjoy a Leisurely Coffee Even on Busy Mornings With a Brew Time of About 90 Seconds

Enjoy a Leisurely Coffee Even on Busy Mornings With a Brew Time of About 90 Seconds

One of the Ninja DualBrew's main draws is its quick brewing time. Even on a hectic morning, you can enjoy your coffee without the stress of waiting around for the grounds to slowly drip through.


In our tests, the Ninja took an average of 84.5 seconds to brew an 8-ounce cup of coffee, significantly less than the 198-second average of the lower-ranking products. A minute and a half is a noticeable difference, making this a great choice for those who want to enjoy their coffee right when they want it.

Enjoy a Fragrant, Satisfyingly Deep Flavor For Light or Dark Roast Coffee

Enjoy a Fragrant, Satisfyingly Deep Flavor For Light or Dark Roast Coffee

With the Ninja, which earned high marks from our expert taste tester, you can brew delicious coffee that highlights the aroma of the beans in the pod.


Generally, the taste of coffee brewed from a single-serve coffee maker depends on the grounds in the pod, so it's rare for the machine's performance to affect it. However, subtle adjustments in the timing and amount of water can change how well it brings out the coffee's flavor. We compared the taste of both dark and light roast coffee pods.


Ninja's machine earned high marks in our tests for both dark and light roast coffees. When brewing dark roast pods, our expert noted its balanced flavor and smoothness. Brewing light roast pods brought out a vibrant flavor with a grapefruit-like acidity.


The Ninja's ability to bring out the delicious flavor of any coffee, whether light or dark roast, is one of its star features. With its superior brewing technology and easy use, this is an excellent coffee maker.

With Over 200 Compatible Pods, You Can Enjoy Starbucks, Dunkin', and More at Home

With Over 200 Compatible Pods, You Can Enjoy Starbucks, Dunkin', and More at Home

The variety of compatible pods is another of the Ninja's top features. The pods used are K-cups, a type sold by Keurig.


Our research revealed that there are an astonishing 212 types of K-cups available, excluding seasonal and limited-edition offerings. The variety includes not only black coffee but also flavored options like vanilla and caramel, as well as milk-based drinks like black and chai tea.


A machine compatible with K-cup pods is perfect if you want to enjoy a different flavor every day. Collaborations with famous brands like Starbucks and Folgers are also available, and with over 200 pods to choose from, you're sure to find your favorite.

Be Aware That There Are a Lot of Parts, and Cleaning Can Be Tedious

Be Aware That There Are a Lot of Parts, and Cleaning Can Be Tedious

The only minor drawback to the Ninja is that cleaning it can be a bit of a chore. Among the products we tested, it was the only one that didn't quite satisfy us in terms of ease of cleaning.


While the top-rated products for ease of cleaning have only the pod holder to wash, the Ninja has five parts: the lid, brewing spout, pod holder, brew basket, and water reservoir. It's a positive that all parts except the body can be disassembled and washed, but the time it takes to clean them after each use is a drawback.


Also, the lack of indentations to easily remove the pod was a minus. Since the pod gets hot during use, it can be difficult to remove, and care must be taken not to get burned. 


With this in mind, it may not be suitable for those who want something easy to maintain and keep clean.

2

If You Want Something Easy to Clean and Simple to Use, Consider Cuisinart

If You Want Something Easy to Clean and Simple to Use, Consider Cuisinart

One product that ranked well overall in our tests, including for ease of cleaning, was Cuisinart's Grind & Brew. While the taste of the brewed coffee was slightly inferior to the top-ranked Ninja, it's still a good choice if you're looking for something easy to use that doesn't require much maintenance. Let's look at what made it great.

Easy Pod Removal and a No-Drip Spout Make Cleaning a Breeze

Easy Pod Removal and a No-Drip Spout Make Cleaning a Breeze

With Cuisinart's machine, you can forget about stressful daily cleaning. The only effort required is to throw away the pod after each use and take a little time to wipe down the body.


Our tests revealed four handy indentations for removing the pod easily after use. Plus, since water is less likely to drip after brewing, the area around the machine stays cleaner, saving you the effort of wiping it down.

With Labeled Buttons, You Only Need to Switch on and Select the Capacity

With Labeled Buttons, You Only Need to Switch on and Select the Capacity

A convenient feature of this product is the labeled buttons, which means you don't have to inspect the manual to work out what each one is for.


The Grind & Brew requires just two steps: turn on the power, select the capacity, and the brewing process starts. It's incredibly simple to operate and easy to understand, so you can make a quick cup of coffee even on the busiest mornings.

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7 Best Single-Serve Coffee Makers Ranking

Here are the best Single Serve Coffee Makers we found after testing them. We ranked them after weighting each of our testing specs.
Recommended
Price Performance
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Filter
Best-tasting coffee
Ease of use
Ease of cleaning
Compatible with many pods
Lengthy cord
Quick brew time
Brews quietly
Products
Image
mybest Score
Click to purchase
Key features
Ranking spec
Details
Taste (by expert)
Ease of cleaning
Ease of use
Ones that are quiet
Ones that brew fast
Ones with a lot of drink choices
Width
Depth
Height
Cord length
Weight
Water tank capacity
Energy use
Pressure
Brewing method
Available capsules
Used capsule storage
Coffee types
Drinks
Machine rental
Capsules included?
Pause and serve function
Steamer
Swing out filter basket
Start timer
Removable water tank
Auto-shutoff
Bluetooth compatible
Steaming wand
Warranty
Capsules tested
Recommended capsules
Accessories
Operation noise
Compatible capsules count
Number of parts
1

Ninja

DualBrew SystemCFP201

Ninja DualBrew System 1枚目
4.12

Perfect for Those Who Want Delicious Coffee With Ease

4.20
3.86
4.07
4.50
4.38
4.50

9.12 in.

11.3 in.

15.5 in.

2.4 ft.

9 lbs.

60 oz.

1550 W

120 bars

Drip

unknown

N/A

Ground, capsules

Coffee, strong coffee

unknown

K-Cup

K-Cup

Fold-away frother, 12-cup glass carafe, Ninja pod adapter, Ninja smart scoop™

45dB

212

5

2

Cuisinart

Grind & Brew

Cuisinart Grind & Brew 1枚目
4.07

A Breeze to Keep Clean and Great at Brewing Dark Roast Coffee Blends

4.02
4.04
3.98
4.23
4.25
4.50

11 in.

7.4 in.

12.5 in.

unknown

7.9 lbs.

48 oz.

unknown

unknown

Drip

unknown

N/A

Whole bean, ground, capsules

Coffee

Limited 3-year warranty

K-cup

Compatible with any single-cup pod, including Keurig K-Cup

Cuisinart HomeBarista reusable filter cup

59dB

212

5

3

Keurig

K-Latte5000200559

Keurig K-Latte 1枚目
4.04

Rich, Well-Balanced Flavor and Brews in Less Than a Minute

4.05
4.04
3.84
3.89
4.50
4.50

8.5 in.

13.2 in.

12.5 in.

unknown

unknown

36 oz.

1000 W

110 bars

Drip

3 count

N/A

Capsules

Coffee, latte, shot

N/A

K-Cup

K-Cup

N/A

71dB

212

4

4

Keurig

K-Elite5000197492

Keurig K-Elite 1枚目
4.00

Quick Brew Time, Ideal for Light Roast Coffee Lovers

3.87
3.95
3.93
4.08
4.50
4.50

9.9 in.

12.7 in.

13.1 in.

unknown

8 lbs.

75 oz.

1500 W

110 bars

Drip

unknown

N/A

Capsules

coffee, strong coffee, iced coffee, hot water, tea, hot cacoa

unknown

K-cup

K-Cup

1 water filter handle, 1 filter

63.9dB

212

4

5

Keurig 

K-Mini PlusK-Mini

Keurig  K-Mini Plus 1枚目
3.93

Remarkably Simple and Easy to Operate, but the Coffee Tends to Be Bitter

3.46
4.20
4.34
4.26
4.00
4.50

4.5 in.

11.3 in.

12.1 in.

0.85 ft.

4.6 lbs.

12 fl.

1500 W

120 bars

Drip

4 Count

Up to 9 pods

Capsules

Coffee

unknown

K-Cup

K-Cup

unknown

58dB

212

1

6

Hamilton Beach

FlexBrew49979

Hamilton Beach FlexBrew 1枚目
3.86

Detachable and Washable Pod Holder, but Brewing Takes Three Minutes

3.93
3.89
3.75
4.14
3.56
4.50

6.5 in.

10.2 in.

13.35 in.

unknown

3.22 lbs.

14 fl.

1050 W

110 bars

Drip

unknown

1 pod

Ground, capsules

Coffee

unknown

K-Cup

K-Cup

unknown

62dB

212

4

7

Instant 

Solo‎140-6014-01

Instant  Solo 1枚目
3.81

Easy to Tell When It Starts and Finishes Brewing, but the Resulting Flavor Is Bitter

3.38
4.26
3.84
4.45
4.34
4.50

5.3 in.

11.8 in.

12.6 in.

unknown

unknown

40 oz.

unknown

110 bars

Drip

unknown

unknown

Ground, capsules

Coffee

unknown

K-Cup

K-Cup

unknown

51.7dB

212

3

If you don't see the product you're looking for, you can request that it be listed.
No.1
Top Choice Single Serve Coffee Makers
No.1 in Taste (by expert)
No.1 in Ones that are quiet
No.1 in Ones with a lot of drink choices

NinjaDualBrew SystemCFP201

mybest Score
4.12
Taste (by expert)
4.20
|
Ease of cleaning
3.86
|
Ease of use
4.07
|
Ones that are quiet
4.50
|
Ones that brew fast
4.38
|
Ones with a lot of drink choices
4.50
View on Amazon
DualBrew System Image 1
Lowest price
$199.99
DrinksCoffee, strong coffee
Capsules testedK-Cup
Cord length
2.4 ft.
Coffee types
Ground, capsules
Operation noise
45dB
Number of parts
5

Perfect for Those Who Want Delicious Coffee With Ease

The Ninja DualBrew System is a versatile coffee maker equipped with a frother and the option of using either coffee grounds or pods. You can adjust the brew size from six to twelve ounces, allowing for a personalized coffee experience.


With an average brew time of just 84.5 seconds, you can prepare an eight-ounce coffee in a flash. The noise level is incredibly low at 45 decibels, with only the faint sound of the water heating. It's so subtle that it blends into the background hum of daily life, so you won't have to worry about any disruptive noise.


When brewing coffee pods with a bitter profile, the aroma is reminiscent of the sweetness of dark chocolate and the spiciness of nutmeg. The taste is slightly rich, with a balanced body that's neither too heavy nor too light. The harmony between bitterness and sweetness makes it easy to enjoy. Moreover, brewing light roast coffee pods brings out subtle fragrances like honey and lemon, along with a light yet smooth texture.


As for its usability, refilling the DualBrew System is a breeze thanks to the wide, stable water reservoir mouth on the right-hand side. The ability to check the remaining brewing time on its panel is another convenient feature. Plus, you can adjust the strength, cup size, and water volume, making it a great choice for those who like to customize their coffee.


Maintenance is relatively straightforward. All parts except the main body, including the brewing spout, pod holder, brew basket, and water reservoir, can be disassembled and cleaned. However, the number of removable parts does mean that cleaning can be a bit time-consuming, which resulted in a slightly lower rating. Another minor drawback is the lack of indentations in the pod holder, making it tricky to remove the pod after use.


The Ninja DualBrew System is an ideal choice for those seeking a quick and tasty coffee, even on busy mornings. Additionally, its compatibility with K-cup pods, available in over 200 flavors, adds to its appeal. If you're looking for a coffee maker that provides both convenience and variety, the DualBrew System might be the perfect fit for you.

Width9.12 in.
Depth11.3 in.
Height15.5 in.
Weight9 lbs.
Water tank capacity60 oz.
Energy use1550 W
Pressure120 bars
Brewing methodDrip
Available capsulesunknown
Used capsule storageN/A
Machine rental
Capsules included?
Pause and serve function
Steamer
Swing out filter basket
Start timer
Removable water tank
Auto-shutoff
Bluetooth compatible
Steaming wand
Warrantyunknown
Recommended capsulesK-Cup
AccessoriesFold-away frother, 12-cup glass carafe, Ninja pod adapter, Ninja smart scoop™
Compatible capsules count212
View all
Was this Ranking helpful?
No.2
No.1 in Ones with a lot of drink choices

CuisinartGrind & Brew

mybest Score
4.07
Taste (by expert)
4.02
|
Ease of cleaning
4.04
|
Ease of use
3.98
|
Ones that are quiet
4.23
|
Ones that brew fast
4.25
|
Ones with a lot of drink choices
4.50
Lowest price
$147.00
DrinksCoffee
Capsules testedK-cup
Cord length
unknown
Coffee types
Whole bean, ground, capsules
Operation noise
59dB
Number of parts
5

A Breeze to Keep Clean and Great at Brewing Dark Roast Coffee Blends

The Cuisinart Grind & Brew stands out with its adjustable brew size, offering options from eight to twelve ounces. Its unique selling point is the built-in grinder. You can use the freshly ground coffee in the provided cup as a pod, adding a touch of freshness to your brew.


The brew time is impressively quick, averaging 111 seconds, so you can have an eight-ounce coffee ready in less than two minutes. Plus, it runs quietly at just 59 decibels, a noise level that won't disturb your household during early mornings or late nights.


When it comes to flavor, brewing dark roast coffee pods results in a coffee with a gentle, honey-like sweetness in its aroma. The taste is somewhat rich, with a perfect balance of bitterness and acidity, making it very easy to drink. However, coffee brewed from light roast pods had a noticeable tartness and bitterness. This makes the Grind & Brew a great fit for those who have a preference for strong, dark roast coffee.


Maintenance is a breeze with the Grind & Brew. The water reservoir is removable, allowing for thorough cleaning. The pod holder design, with four indentations, makes it easy to remove and dispose of the hot pod after use. The spout also doesn't drip after the brew is complete, so you won't need to wipe it down after each use or spend time cleaning it every day.


In terms of usability, the Grind & Brew shines with its simplicity. Brewing starts with just the press of the power and brew size buttons, each of which is labeled for intuitive operation. Plus, you can adjust the strength and water volume, making it a great choice for those who enjoy experimenting with different flavors daily.


The Cuisinart Grind & Brew is a top recommendation for those seeking an easy-to-use and easy-to-maintain coffee maker for daily use. It's particularly worth considering if you love dark roast coffee.

Width11 in.
Depth7.4 in.
Height12.5 in.
Weight7.9 lbs.
Water tank capacity48 oz.
Energy useunknown
Pressureunknown
Brewing methodDrip
Available capsulesunknown
Used capsule storageN/A
Machine rental
Capsules included?
Pause and serve function
Steamer
Swing out filter basket
Start timer
Removable water tank
Auto-shutoff
Bluetooth compatible
Steaming wand
WarrantyLimited 3-year warranty
Recommended capsulesCompatible with any single-cup pod, including Keurig K-Cup
AccessoriesCuisinart HomeBarista reusable filter cup
Compatible capsules count212
View all
No.3
No.1 in Ones that brew fast
No.1 in Ones with a lot of drink choices

KeurigK-Latte5000200559

mybest Score
4.04
Taste (by expert)
4.05
|
Ease of cleaning
4.04
|
Ease of use
3.84
|
Ones that are quiet
3.89
|
Ones that brew fast
4.50
|
Ones with a lot of drink choices
4.50
Lowest price
$99.00
DrinksCoffee, latte, shot
Capsules testedK-Cup
Cord length
unknown
Coffee types
Capsules
Operation noise
71dB
Number of parts
4

Rich, Well-Balanced Flavor and Brews in Less Than a Minute

The Keurig K-Latte comes with an attached frother for steaming milk. In addition to being able to adjust the brew size to six, eight, or ten ounces, it also features the option to create a rich shot for lattes.


The brew time for an eight-ounce coffee is incredibly quick at an average of 58 seconds. Thanks to its ability to heat and maintain water temperature even when not in use, you can brew coffee in a very short time after startup.


When brewing dark roast pods, the aroma was marked by sweet, roasted notes like dark chocolate and toasty, nutty flavors. The flavor was well-balanced between bitterness and acidity, and its richness made it enjoyable even when combined with milk. However, coffee brewed from pods of a light roast had a somewhat light and thin flavor, making this product more suitable for those who usually prefer dark roast coffee.


Maintenance is convenient, with the wide-mouthed water reservoir being fully washable. The pod holder has two indentations, allowing for smooth disposal of the hot pod after use. Hardly any water drips from the spout after brewing, eliminating the need for constant cleaning around the machine.


The brew size selection and start buttons are integrated, and their functions are clearly labeled, so operating the machine is intuitive. However, the water reservoir is located at the back and must be removed for refilling, which can be a hassle. Also, water tends to splatter during brewing, so caution is needed to avoid burns from splashed water.


Although the sound of the motor produces a noticeable 71 decibels, the Keurig K-Latte is an excellent choice for those who want to quickly brew delicious dark roast coffee.

Width8.5 in.
Depth13.2 in.
Height12.5 in.
Weightunknown
Water tank capacity36 oz.
Energy use1000 W
Pressure110 bars
Brewing methodDrip
Available capsules3 count
Used capsule storageN/A
Machine rental
Capsules included?
Pause and serve function
Steamer
Swing out filter basket
Start timer
Removable water tank
Auto-shutoff
Bluetooth compatible
Steaming wand
WarrantyN/A
Recommended capsulesK-Cup
AccessoriesN/A
Compatible capsules count212
View all
No.4
No.1 in Ones that brew fast
No.1 in Ones with a lot of drink choices

KeurigK-Elite5000197492

mybest Score
4.00
Taste (by expert)
3.87
|
Ease of cleaning
3.95
|
Ease of use
3.93
|
Ones that are quiet
4.08
|
Ones that brew fast
4.50
|
Ones with a lot of drink choices
4.50
Lowest price
$189.99
Drinkscoffee, strong coffee, iced coffee, hot water, tea, hot cacoa
Capsules testedK-cup
Cord length
unknown
Coffee types
Capsules
Operation noise
63.9dB
Number of parts
4

Quick Brew Time, Ideal for Light Roast Coffee Lovers

The Keurig K-Elite stands out with its ability to customize your coffee size, offering options from four to twelve ounces. An added feature is its hot water dispensing capability, perfect for making soups or oatmeal.


With an impressive average brew time of just under 50 seconds, the K-Elite is the fastest among the products we tested. Its relatively quiet operation makes it a perfect fit for those seeking a quick cup of coffee at any time of the day.


Light roast coffee pods produced a coffee with a fruity aroma, evoking notes of pomegranate and orange. The balance between acidity and sweetness is excellent, and the smooth mouthfeel makes for an enjoyable drinking experience. However, when brewing dark roast pods, the coffee had a surprisingly light finish. It also had a slightly rough and bitter sensation that lingered after drinking, leading to a slightly lower rating.


As for usability, the K-Elite shines with its easily accessible water reservoir, simplifying the refilling process. The strength can be adjusted through six levels using the brew buttons, adding a layer of customization for those who enjoy experimenting with flavors. However, setting the pod requires a bit of effort as the top needs to be lifted, and there's a slight resistance when opening and closing. The machine features twelve buttons due to its multiple functions, which can be a bit overwhelming as they aren't text-labeled, and somewhat challenging to understand the brewing steps.


Maintenance is straightforward, thanks to the two indentations in the pod holder that allow for easy disposal of the hot pod after brewing. There were barely any coffee drips when removing the pod, keeping the surrounding area clean. However, a considerable amount of water continues to drip even after the brew is complete. It may be best to remove the cup a few seconds after the beep that indicates the brew is done.


The K-Elite's standout feature is its incredibly fast brew time. It's an excellent choice for those who, especially during busy times, want to quickly enjoy a delicious cup of coffee brewed from light roast pods.

Width9.9 in.
Depth12.7 in.
Height13.1 in.
Weight8 lbs.
Water tank capacity75 oz.
Energy use1500 W
Pressure110 bars
Brewing methodDrip
Available capsulesunknown
Used capsule storageN/A
Machine rental
Capsules included?
Pause and serve function
Steamer
Swing out filter basket
Start timer
Removable water tank
Auto-shutoff
Bluetooth compatible
Steaming wand
Warrantyunknown
Recommended capsulesK-Cup
Accessories1 water filter handle, 1 filter
Compatible capsules count212
View all
No.5
No.1 in Ease of use
No.1 in Ones with a lot of drink choices

Keurig K-Mini PlusK-Mini

mybest Score
3.93
Taste (by expert)
3.46
|
Ease of cleaning
4.20
|
Ease of use
4.34
|
Ones that are quiet
4.26
|
Ones that brew fast
4.00
|
Ones with a lot of drink choices
4.50
Lowest price
$109.99
DrinksCoffee
Capsules testedK-Cup
Cord length
0.85 ft.
Coffee types
Capsules
Operation noise
58dB
Number of parts
1

Remarkably Simple and Easy to Operate, but the Coffee Tends to Be Bitter

The Keurig K-Mini Plus is a product that prides itself on its compact width of just four and a half inches. It features an automatic power-off function that activates 90 seconds after the brew is complete.


The charm of this product lies in its simplicity and ease of operation. With just two buttons for power and brew start, you can prepare a coffee by simply setting the pod and pressing the central button. The amount of coffee brewed corresponds to the amount of water filled, so you can adjust the fill level to achieve your preferred strength.


With two indentations in the pod holder to easily dispose of the pod after brewing, maintenance is very simple. The pod holder is simple to keep clean as it's integrated with the brew spout and can be removed and washed all in one. The water reservoir is also shallow, so wiping and drying it is much easier.


The average brew time is 140 seconds, which is relatively quick. Also, with an operating noise level of 58 decibels, you can brew coffee without the stress of waiting or making a noise, even during busy morning hours.


On the downside, coffee brewed from dark roast pods had a spicy aroma reminiscent of chili or black pepper. While the balance of bitterness and acidity in the flavor wasn't bad, the roughness and bitterness on the tongue prevented a higher rating. Even when brewing pods for light roast coffee, it had a watered-down flavor. It gave the impression that it wasn't able to fully extract the flavor of the coffee grounds in the pod.


If you're not particular about the flavor of your coffee and are looking for a product that simplifies operation and maintenance, the Keurig K-Mini Plus might be worth considering.

Width4.5 in.
Depth11.3 in.
Height12.1 in.
Weight4.6 lbs.
Water tank capacity12 fl.
Energy use1500 W
Pressure120 bars
Brewing methodDrip
Available capsules4 Count
Used capsule storageUp to 9 pods
Machine rental
Capsules included?
Pause and serve function
Steamer
Swing out filter basket
Start timer
Removable water tank
Auto-shutoff
Bluetooth compatible
Steaming wand
Warrantyunknown
Recommended capsulesK-Cup
Accessoriesunknown
Compatible capsules count212
View all
No.6
No.1 in Ones with a lot of drink choices

Hamilton BeachFlexBrew49979

mybest Score
3.86
Taste (by expert)
3.93
|
Ease of cleaning
3.89
|
Ease of use
3.75
|
Ones that are quiet
4.14
|
Ones that brew fast
3.56
|
Ones with a lot of drink choices
4.50
Lowest price
$82.36
DrinksCoffee
Capsules testedK-Cup
Cord length
unknown
Coffee types
Ground, capsules
Operation noise
62dB
Number of parts
4

Detachable and Washable Pod Holder, but Brewing Takes Three Minutes

The Hamilton Beach FlexBrew is a versatile product that can handle up to 14 ounces of coffee. One of its unique features is that you can put coffee grounds directly into the holder, allowing it to function like a conventional coffee maker.

With an operating noise level of 62 decibels, it's relatively quiet and suitable for use at any time of the day. For maintenance, the pod holder has two indentations, making it easy to dispose of the hot pod after use. The brewing spout and pod holder are integrated and can be washed thoroughly, which is a plus. However, the non-removable water reservoir is difficult to clean, which kept it from receiving a higher rating. It's recommended to open the lid and dry the inside after each use.


The flavor of coffee brewed from dark roast pods is well-balanced between bitterness and acidity. While the flavor's body is somewhat strong, the smoothness makes it very easy to drink. However, when brewing light roast coffee pods, the aroma was weak, and there was a roughness left on the tongue. It might be worth considering for those who enjoy a strong dark roast coffee.


The average brew time is 193 seconds, which feels somewhat long. Compared to top-tier models that finish brewing in about a minute, the extended wait time for brewing led to a less impressive rating.


In terms of usability, the simplicity of having only two buttons is convenient. However, the water reservoir is mesh-like, making it difficult to empty once it's been filled. Also, the amount of coffee brewed depends on the amount of water added, so if you overfill, you'll need to empty all the water at once, which can be a hassle.

Width6.5 in.
Depth10.2 in.
Height13.35 in.
Weight3.22 lbs.
Water tank capacity14 fl.
Energy use1050 W
Pressure110 bars
Brewing methodDrip
Available capsulesunknown
Used capsule storage1 pod
Machine rental
Capsules included?
Pause and serve function
Steamer
Swing out filter basket
Start timer
Removable water tank
Auto-shutoff
Bluetooth compatible
Steaming wand
Warrantyunknown
Recommended capsulesK-Cup
Accessoriesunknown
Compatible capsules count212
View all
No.7
No.1 in Ease of cleaning
No.1 in Ones with a lot of drink choices

Instant Solo‎140-6014-01

mybest Score
3.81
Taste (by expert)
3.38
|
Ease of cleaning
4.26
|
Ease of use
3.84
|
Ones that are quiet
4.45
|
Ones that brew fast
4.34
|
Ones with a lot of drink choices
4.50
Lowest price
$99.95
DrinksCoffee
Capsules testedK-Cup
Cord length
unknown
Coffee types
Ground, capsules
Operation noise
51.7dB
Number of parts
3

Easy to Tell When It Starts and Finishes Brewing, but the Resulting Flavor Is Bitter

The Instant Solo is tailored for brewing coffee in eight, ten, and twelve-ounce servings. It utilizes a unique Pre-Infusion Process, where the coffee beans are soaked before the actual brewing begins.


One of its standout features is a fast brew time, averaging 91.5 seconds. This quick brew time eliminates the stress of waiting for your eight-ounce coffee. Plus, the noise level during operation is just 51.7 decibels, barely above the gentle hum of boiling water, making it a versatile choice for any time of the day.


The pod holder is thoughtfully designed with indentations at both ends, allowing for smooth removal of the pod post-brew. The convenience extends to cleaning as well. The water tank, pod holder, and brewing spout are all detachable and washable, simplifying daily upkeep.


The Instant Solo shines in usability with its touch-panel buttons that signal the start and end of the brewing process. You can adjust the strength of your coffee using the cup size and the bold button, offering a personalized brewing experience. However, it's worth noting that the lid requires a firm push to secure, and the water tends to splatter from the brewing spout. Caution is advised to prevent burns.


When it comes to taste, dark roast coffee pods result in a robust, bitter finish. The lack of sweetness and acidity seemed to throw off the flavor balance. As the coffee cooled, there was a noticeable roughness on the tongue, leading to a lower rating. Light roast coffee pods resulted in a strong, acidic taste with a hint of bitterness. Therefore, the Instant Solo might not be the ideal choice for those seeking a machine that can brew a delicious cup from any type of pod.

Width5.3 in.
Depth11.8 in.
Height12.6 in.
Weightunknown
Water tank capacity40 oz.
Energy useunknown
Pressure110 bars
Brewing methodDrip
Available capsulesunknown
Used capsule storageunknown
Machine rental
Capsules included?
Pause and serve function
Steamer
Swing out filter basket
Start timer
Removable water tank
Auto-shutoff
Bluetooth compatible
Steaming wand
Warrantyunknown
Recommended capsulesK-Cup
Accessoriesunknown
Compatible capsules count212
View all

How We Tested the Single-Serve Coffee Makers

Single Serve Coffee Makers Evaluation

For this review, we gathered seven top-selling single-serve coffee makers from retailers like Amazon, Walmart, and Target and conducted a thorough evaluation to determine the best product.


At mybest, we define the best single-serve coffee maker as one that's easy to use daily and brews delicious coffee.


Here's a breakdown of the criteria we used for our evaluation:

  • Ease of use
  • Ease of cleaning
  • Taste (coffee expert)
  • Ones that brew fast
  • Ones that are quiet
  • Ones with a lot of drink choices

Products we tested

  1. CuisinartGrind & Brew
  2. Hamilton BeachFlexBrew49979
  3. Instant Solo‎140-6014-01
  4. KeurigK-Elite5000197492
  5. KeurigK-Latte5000200559
  6. Keurig K-Mini PlusK-Mini
  7. NinjaDualBrew SystemCFP201
1

Ease of use

Ease of use

When choosing a single-serve coffee maker, usability is a crucial factor. We looked for products that can be used daily without stress, evaluating them based on the following six aspects.


  • Ease of setting the pod
  • Ease of refilling the water
  • Clarity of buttons
  • Ease of adjusting the flavor
  • Whether water splashes during brewing
  • Usability of additional features (grinder, hot water, frother, timer, etc.)

2

Ease of cleaning

Ease of cleaning

For daily use, easy cleaning is a must. We sought products that are easy to maintain and keep clean, evaluating them based on the following four aspects.


  • Is the pod holder easy to clean?
  • Is there space to store used pods?
  • Is the brewing spout prone to dripping?
  • Is the inside of the body easy to clean?
3

Taste (by expert)

Taste (by expert)

The ability to brew delicious coffee that you'll want to drink every day is essential. 


We had a barista taste coffee brewed from all the products using the following six aspects to evaluate the quality of aroma, flavor balance, and texture.

  • Flavor
  • Body
  • Sweetness
  • Bitterness
  • Acidity
  • Aftertaste


The following pods were used for testing:

  • Starbucks' Pike Place® Roast Coffee
  • Dunkin's Original Blend Coffee
4

Ones that brew fast

Ones that brew fast

For those short on time, a quick brew time is a necessity. We timed how long it took to brew eight ounces of coffee and gave higher ratings to machines that could complete a brew in under two minutes.

5

Ones that are quiet

Ones that are quiet

The noise level may be a concern for those living with others or using the machine early in the morning or late at night. We placed a noise meter about six inches from the body and measured the operation noise, rating products under 60 decibels highly.


Note that we only measured the noise of the motor and machinery, not the sound of water hitting the cup.

6

Ones with a lot of drink choices

Ones with a lot of drink choices

The variety of pods available might also be a consideration if you like to explore different flavors or enjoy drinks other than black coffee. We researched the types of pods each product supports, rating those with over 30 varieties highly. We only considered the types of pods officially recommended and regularly available, excluding limited-edition or seasonal flavors.


Please note that we did not include limited-edition flavors, seasonal offerings, or pods not officially recommended in our evaluation. The results reflect only the types of pods that are officially recommended and regularly available.

Top 5 Single Serve Coffee Makers

No. 1: NinjaDualBrew SystemCFP201

No. 2: CuisinartGrind & Brew

No. 3: KeurigK-Latte5000200559

No. 4: KeurigK-Elite5000197492

No. 5: Keurig K-Mini PlusK-Mini

View Full Ranking

The descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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  4. 7 Best Single Serve Coffee Makers of 2023 [Tested and Reviewed]

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