Here are our picks for the best single serve coffee makers in 2022. Must read:
The best coffee subscription services: Get beans deliveredThe best coffee makers: Get the perfect brew at homeThe best coffee grinders: Elevate your morning cupThe best espresso machines: Make barista-quality drinksThe best cold brew coffee makers: Easy ice-cold javaThe best burr coffee grinders: Crush your beans, don’t chop theThe best French press coffee maker: better than Starbucks?
Nespresso pulls out all of the stops with its popular Vertuo Evoluo Coffee and Espresso Machine. Its silver design incorporates buttons for control, offering simple one-touch brewing with three different settings for your choice of espresso, alto, or coffee. You can even save your favorite settings, and warm-up time is just 25 seconds before you can begin brewing. Nespresso’s Centrifusion technology delivers authentic-tasting espresso and coffee, automatically adjusting itself to brew the best drink possible based on your beverage of choice. There are dark and medium roast options that are available in three intensities: 6, 7, and 8. The machine uses its exclusive Vertuo capsule technology that works much like K-Cups, brewing up to 14oz at a time. Thirty capsules are included, and then you will need to purchase more to continue enjoying your machine. A descaling reminder lets you know when it is time to rid your machine of calcium and mineral build-ups. For those looking to go green, this machine is environmentally-friendly, too, thanks to an eco-mode setting that automatically turns the machine off after nine minutes. Pros:
Exclusive Nespresso Centrifusion technologyExcellent for espressoDescaling reminder
Cons:
Restricted to Nespresso Vertuo capsulesPricey to replace Vertuo podsNot recommended for light roasts
The AeroPress Coffee and Espresso Maker accommodates both American- and espresso-style coffees – without any of the bitterness or acidity that can come with other machines. The microfilters are efficient in removing grit from your brew, and its signature rapid, total immersion brewing process takes just two minutes. When you don’t have a ton of time to spare, this machine is a perfect solution. Each press makes up to three cups, so it’s a great fit for both single and two-person households. Made of phthalate-free and BPA-free materials, this coffee maker is designed for home use with clean-up that is fast and efficient, lasting just a few seconds. And everything you need comes in a convenient tote bag. Pros:
Ready to go out of the boxSimple cleaning processTravel-friendly design
Cons:
Subpar heat retentionLimited controls for brew strength Not ideal for lighter roasts
The Hamilton Beach Scoop Single Serve Coffee Maker can brew 14 fluid-oz in less than 2.5 minutes. When you brew an 8oz cup, the brew time is cut down to just 90 seconds. Included is a single-serve scoop designed using a mesh filter, allowing for greater versatility when brewing different coffee varieties. There is also a regular automatic drip option, or you can upgrade to a bold brew. The automatic shutoff is a convenient addition to keep the home safe, while the sleek stainless steel design is easy to clean and offers great durability. Plus, there’s a spill-resistant drip tray to cut down on clean-up time and a built-in adjustable stand, which accommodates different cup sizes. Pros:
Adjustable standSimple cleaning processVariable brew strength
Cons:
Poor filteringSome users report plastic-like flavor Subject to overfilling
Keurig is a well-known name among coffee makers, offering several models that incorporate its exclusive K-Cup design. The K-Elite model’s plastic construction is accented with brushed silver and features an oversized 75oz. water reservoir. There are five different cup sizes available, including 4, 6, 8, 10, and 12oz. sizes, plus convenient buttons that give you full control of the brew type, strength, and size. The brew button allows you to choose a bolder brew, while the iced setting is excellent for warmer days. If you are in the mood for something different, like soup or oatmeal, the K-Elite has a hot water function that skips the brewing process altogether. The K-Elite is restricted to K-Cups and hot water, but if you purchase the additional Universal My K-Cup Reusable Coffee Filter, your machine can then accommodate coffee grounds, too. The removable drip tray is a welcome convenience, holding an entire cup in case of over-brewing. However, your cup size is limited to 7.2 inches tall. Keurig also incorporates an exclusive maintenance notification that will remind you when it is time to descale and clean your K-Elite machine. Pros:
Compatible with K-Cups Five brew sizes Separate beverage settings
Cons:
Higher price tagIt may be too tall for some spacesLengthy warm-up process
Brew function: Some single serve coffee makers may offer a lighter blend, but only coffee makers that are capable of stronger brews offer an espresso option. Type of coffee: While some machines are compatible with normal coffee grounds, others may rely upon manufacturer-specific products, like Keurig’s K-Cups. Brew time: The warm-up and brew process varies from machine to machine.Construction: The machine’s material will help determine not only how long clean-up will be but also how long the machine will last. Price: Single serve coffee makers range in price from budget-friendly and splurge-worthy.
It’s also important to consider any additional purchases that may be required to use your machine, such as Keurig’s K-Cups and Nespresso’s capsules. Keurig’s also aren’t too great for the environment because of their K-cups, but you can buy reusable K-cups that are more eco-friendly and let you put any coffee you want in.
