A How-To Guide For Single Serve Coffee Maker From Start To Finish
Single Serve Coffee Makers Comparison
Single-serve coffee makers offer convenience for a quick cup of hot or cold coffee. They may use pre-packaged coffee pods, or reusable filters that are filled with ground beans.
Coffee drinkers who value individualization will require machines that can make a full pot of drip coffee or espresso shots. These machines are also designed to lessen the environmental impact of disposable coffee pods. They make use of capsules that are recyclable or reusable.
1. Keurig K-Elite
The K-Elite is a stunning machine that has premium finishes and programmable features. It's one the most versatile Keurigs in terms the kinds of beverages it can be brewed with- it supports K-Cups, ground coffee and hot tea or chocolate. The large and removable 72-ounce water tank is able to dispense up to seven medium cups before needing refills. It's also compatible with reuseable K-Cup pods, which can save you money in the long run.
Despite having way more buttons on the control panel than other Keurig model, it's still easy to navigate and use. The top control panel features a power button, settings button, up and down buttons for the menu, a "strong" button and a hot water button as well as four different sizes of brew and an "iced" button. A large LCD with a color-coded display makes it easy to determine when the machine needs a descale or a refill.
While the K-Elite is one of our top Keurig models, it does have some downsides. For example, it can be difficult to clean, because it doesn't have a drip tray that can be detached and the lid isn't secured. The spout also tends to produce a splatter especially when you use shorter travel mugs.
In our Coffee Makers Test Program, we also tested the K-Elite and found that it performed well in all categories. It scored above average in first-cup speed, temperature consistency, and repeat speed.
It was also the quickest to heat the water and brew the cup. It was also the least likely machine to produce grounds. However the K-Elite wasn't able to make as hot of a cup as some of our other top models. The iced coffee was also less savory than its robust brew. The K-Elite is a great option for anyone looking for a machine that is single-serve. You can purchase it from many retailers including Keurig, Amazon, Walmart and Wayfair. It can be found for around $150. The K-Classic model is an option if you want a more affordable model. It costs a little more than the Elite however, not so much as our top selections.
2. Black+Decker Single-Serve Espresso Maker
A single-serve coffee maker gives you the convenience of a quick cup of hot coffee on demand. These machines are smaller and less bulky than drip models which makes them a great choice for small kitchens and dorm rooms. They can also make a variety coffee drinks, including espresso shots and lattes. They are also easy to clean and operate, making them a great option for busy households.
The BLACK+DECKER CM618 is among the cheapest models on the market but it has several important features that make it worth considering. It has a filter that is permanent that works with ground coffee or soft coffee pods. It also comes with an automatic shut-off function 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 can fit most standard car-cup holders (though you can use your own mug if you prefer).
In our tests, the BLACK+DECKER was able to create a delicious cup of coffee in less than half the time that it took the typical model we tested in our lab. It also has programmable features that are generally reserved for more expensive brewers, such as an automatic start.
Its retro-styled design is perfect for those who prefer to match their kitchen appliances. Its lightweight design and removable tank make it easy to carry. It was fairly user-friendly, with a digital control panel that was easy to use and a menu that anyone could understand. The brew speed in our tests was moderate, and the machine didn't reach 195degF within five or six minutes that is the industry standard for optimal flavor. The temperature of the brew was noticeable higher than other models in our tests, which could result in overheated coffee and burnt grounds. Despite these issues the CM618 is a great option for people on a tight budget who still want the flexibility to brew their preferred K-Cup pods or 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. coffee maker single serve -based machines into two categories which are VertuoLine and the Original. Original machines brew espresso-based drinks. VertuoLine models are designed to brew larger coffee and milk recipes such as cappuccinos and lattes. Because they're intended to be used in tandem with Nespresso's recyclable and sustainable capsules, the Original machines typically cost more than VertuoLine models.
The VertuoLine Nespresso XP371 offers four different sizes of drinks, smart capsule detection technology, and the company's signature centrifusion brewing method. It features a modern and sleek design, and an adjustable 37-ounce water tank. It is easy to operate and uses an automatic system that allows you to eject used pods into a built-in container. It takes between 15 and 20 seconds to heat up and then will shut down after nine minutes.
In our tests, the XP371 brewed an excellent cup of coffee. It had a nice crema and was hot enough to drink in the morning without worrying about burning your tongue. It was slower to prepare than other models. It took 1 min and 51 secs to make 7,7 ounces, which was third-fastest of the models we test. It's not a huge issue but if you're used to brewing coffee quickly in the morning, this could be an issue.
Overall, the Nespresso XP371 is a fantastic choice for coffee and espresso lovers who are looking to reduce waste. Its design is more luxurious than other pod brewers. It is also compatible with Nespresso capsules that are more eco-friendly. The VertuoLine's high price and dependence on proprietary capsules might cause some buyers to be hesitant.
If you don't have the money to purchase the best single-serve pod coffee maker, but still love the convenience of one-serve machines, we recommend checking out our best reusable cups review. You might also want to try one of our favorite tumblers with insulation to keep your coffee or tea warm.
4. Cuisinart DCC-1200
This coffee maker has been praised by thousands of users due to its convenient features, and many other models do not have these features. The price is quite reasonable for a product of its quality and has a sleek design to boot. However, some owners have reported this model as a potential fire hazard, and this is something that you should certainly keep in mind if you are considering buying it.
The fully automatic coffeemaker features 24-hour programmability and you can program it to brew just one or four cups at once or the entire pot of 12 cups. The carafe has thermal design and permanent gold-tone wire mesh filter as well as charcoal filter remove impurities, which enhances the flavor of the brewed beverage. The "Brew Pause", which interrupts the brewing process for 30 seconds, allows you to pour one cup. The auto-cleaning feature keeps the tank free of impurities.
The controls are evenly spaced and clearly marked. You'll be able to quickly determine what each button does. Other features include a self-cleaning that alerts you to decalcify the carafe and tank, an automatic shutoff, and a knuckle guard dripless spout for ease of pouring. This coffee maker is easy to use and comes with stunning brushed stainless finishes.
Some buyers have complained that the gold toned mesh filter is difficult to clean. This may be an issue for those who prefer paper filters. Some have also reported that they have difficulty getting the reservoir to fill properly due to an issue with the design that pushes water through a tiny opening in the back of the machine and into the filter.
Some have complained that their Cuisinart coffee maker spills coffee grounds and water all over the counter when it is in operation however this appears to be a rare event. In any case, this is a fantastic coffee maker worth a look if are looking for a simple model with plenty of convenience features at a very reasonable cost.