Finding the perfect coffee maker for a compact kitchen can be a challenge, especially when counter space is at a premium. Under-cabinet models are a brilliant solution, designed to fit snugly against the wall and free up valuable workspace. These machines offer the full functionality of a standard coffee maker without the bulky footprint, making your morning routine efficient and organized.
Whether you prefer a full 12-cup carafe for the whole family or a single-serve machine for your personal cup, there is a space-saving option for every coffee preference. This roundup highlights a variety of the best under-cabinet coffee makers, from programmable drip machines to versatile espresso makers. We have selected models that prioritize both performance and a slim profile to help you maximize your kitchen’s potential.
Our Top Space-Saving Coffee Maker Picks
- Cuisinart 12-Cup Coffee Maker, Programmable PerfecTemp Thermal Carafe
- Bonavita 8 Cup Coffee Maker, One-Touch Pour Over Brewing
- Hamilton Beach The Scoop Single Serve Coffee Maker
- Cuisinart 4 Cup w/Stainless-Steel Carafe Coffeemaker
- Keurig K-Mini Single Serve K-Cup Pod Coffee Maker
- Nespresso Essenza Mini Espresso Machine by Breville
- Hamilton Beach 2-Way 12 Cup Programmable Drip Coffee Maker
- Cuisinart Single Serve 72-Ounce Reservoir Coffee Machine
- BLACK+DECKER 12-Cup Thermal Coffee Maker
- Mr. Coffee 5-Cup Coffee Maker
Cuisinart 12-Cup Coffee Maker, Programmable PerfecTemp Thermal Carafe
This fully programmable Cuisinart model is designed for households that need a larger volume of coffee without sacrificing counter space. Its advanced PerfecTemp technology ensures your coffee is brewed at the ideal temperature, resulting in a hotter and more flavorful cup. The thermal stainless steel carafe keeps coffee hot for hours without a warming plate, which can alter the taste.
You have full control over your brew with features like a 1-4 cup setting for smaller batches, Brew Strength Control for regular or bold coffee, and a convenient Brew Pause function. The 24-hour programmability means you can set it the night before and wake up to freshly brewed coffee. It also includes a self-clean function for easy maintenance.
Bonavita 8 Cup Coffee Maker, One-Touch Pour Over Brewing
The Bonavita 8-Cup coffee maker is SCA Certified, meaning it meets strict standards for brewing the perfect cup of coffee. It uses a one-touch operation to simulate the manual pour-over method, which is known for producing a clean and rich flavor profile. The powerful 1500-watt heater maintains a precise water temperature between 195°-205°F, which is critical for optimal extraction.
This machine is built for both performance and convenience. The thermal carafe, filter basket, and showerhead are all dishwasher safe, making cleanup simple. Its compact design fits easily under cabinets, and the automatic shut-off provides peace of mind. This is an excellent choice for coffee purists who want a consistently excellent brew with minimal effort.
Hamilton Beach The Scoop Single Serve Coffee Maker
This Hamilton Beach coffee maker simplifies single-serve brewing without the need for expensive pods. Its unique design features a permanent filter that doubles as a scoop, so you can easily measure and brew your favorite ground coffee. This system is both eco-friendly and economical, reducing waste from plastic pods and paper filters.
Brewing is quick and straightforward, producing a fresh cup in just minutes. The adjustable stand accommodates a standard 8-ounce mug or a taller travel mug up to 14 ounces. Its compact and slender profile is specifically designed to save space, making it a practical and budget-friendly option for small kitchens, offices, or dorm rooms.
Cuisinart 4 Cup w/Stainless-Steel Carafe Coffeemaker
Ideal for individuals or couples, this compact Cuisinart coffee maker brews up to four cups at a time. Its small footprint is perfect for tight spaces, fitting comfortably under any cabinet. The durable stainless-steel carafe includes a dripless pour spout and a knuckle guard to protect your hand from heat.
Despite its simple design, it includes a convenient Brew-pause feature that allows you to pour a cup before the brewing cycle is complete. This machine focuses on the essentials, providing a reliable and fast way to brew a small batch of coffee without any complicated programming or settings.
Keurig K-Mini Single Serve K-Cup Pod Coffee Maker
The Keurig K-Mini is one of the slimmest pod coffee makers available, measuring less than 5 inches wide. Its ultra-compact design is built for minimal counter space, and it even features built-in cord storage for a neat and tidy setup. This machine is the ultimate space-saving solution for K-Cup pod users.
It offers the convenience Keurig is known for, allowing you to brew any cup size between 6 and 12 ounces. The one-cup reservoir means you add fresh water for each brew, which keeps the machine’s profile incredibly slim. It’s a straightforward, no-fuss option for quickly preparing a single serving of coffee.
Nespresso Essenza Mini Espresso Machine by Breville
For those who prefer espresso-based drinks, the Nespresso Essenza Mini delivers barista-grade quality in a remarkably compact design. Its minimalist and small footprint makes it easy to tuck under a cabinet. The machine heats up in just 25 seconds and has an energy-saving automatic shut-off feature.
With a simple one-touch operation, you can brew two single-serve cup sizes: a 1.35-ounce espresso and a 5-ounce lungo. It uses Nespresso’s proprietary capsules to create a rich, crema-topped beverage consistently. This machine is perfect for creating a quick shot of espresso or a small coffee without taking up much space.
Hamilton Beach 2-Way 12 Cup Programmable Drip Coffee Maker
This versatile Hamilton Beach machine offers the best of both worlds, functioning as both a full 12-cup pot brewer and a single-serve coffee maker. Its flexibility is ideal for households where one person might want a single cup while others want a full carafe. The programmable timer allows you to set your brew in advance.
For single-serve brewing, it uses a reusable mesh scoop for your own ground coffee, avoiding the ongoing cost and waste of K-Cup pods. The auto-pause and pour feature lets you sneak a cup while the full pot is still brewing. This 2-way system provides maximum brewing options without requiring two separate appliances.
Cuisinart Single Serve 72-Ounce Reservoir Coffee Machine
This Cuisinart single-serve machine combines the convenience of pod-free brewing with a large 72-ounce water reservoir. You can brew directly into a travel mug or a standard cup, and it includes a programmable hot water dispenser for tea, hot chocolate, or oatmeal. Its larger reservoir means fewer refills, which is great for busy households.
The machine allows you to use your own ground coffee for ultimate variety and cost savings. Despite its larger capacity, it maintains a relatively compact design that fits well in a kitchen setup. It’s a feature-rich single-serve option for those who drink multiple cups throughout the day.
BLACK+DECKER 12-Cup Thermal Coffee Maker
The BLACK+DECKER 12-Cup Thermal Coffee Maker is designed to keep your coffee hot and tasting fresh for longer. It uses an insulated stainless steel carafe instead of a glass pot on a hot plate, which prevents the coffee from developing a burnt taste. The digital controls make programming your brew time simple.
This model includes thoughtful design elements for easy use and cleanup. The carafe features a wide-mouth opening, making it simple to clean with a damp cloth. The no-drip pour spout is engineered to prevent spills and messes while serving. It’s a reliable and practical choice for keeping a large quantity of coffee ready to serve.
Mr. Coffee 5-Cup Coffee Maker
The Mr. Coffee 5-Cup Coffee Maker is a classic, no-frills machine that excels in simplicity and space efficiency. Its compact size is ideal for small kitchens, RVs, or offices where space is limited. This model brews up to five cups at a time, which is perfect for one or two people.
Operation is straightforward with a simple on/off switch. The convenient brew pause feature allows you to pour a cup before the cycle finishes. As a trusted and affordable brand, Mr. Coffee provides a dependable way to brew a good pot of coffee without any complicated features or a large footprint.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Under Cabinet Coffee Maker
When my kitchen counters started feeling more like a cluttered appliance museum than a workspace, I knew I had to find a better solution for my daily coffee. That’s when I started looking into under cabinet coffee makers. These space-saving machines are a game-changer for small kitchens, but choosing the right one isn’t as simple as just picking the first model you see. After spending a lot of time researching and testing, I’ve figured out what really matters.
First, consider the installation. Some models are true built-ins that require a semi-permanent mounting under your cabinet, often needing a dedicated water line. Others are designed to sit on your counter but are incredibly slim to maximize space, sometimes with a mounting bracket for stability. Think about your comfort level with installation and whether you’re renting or own your home. A plumbed-in model is a more permanent commitment but offers the ultimate in convenience with no need to refill a water reservoir.
Next, think about the brewing technology. Do you prefer a classic drip coffee maker, or are you looking for a machine that can also make espresso and other specialty drinks? Some of the best under cabinet coffee makers are multi-functional, combining a coffee brewer with a milk frother for lattes and cappuccinos. If you’re a purist who just wants a great-tasting black coffee, a standard single-serve or carafe-style drip machine might be perfect. Also, pay close attention to the size. Measure the height of your cabinet clearance meticulously. You don’t want to fall in love with a model only to find it doesn’t fit in the space you have.
Finally, don’t forget about daily usability. How easy is it to refill the water tank and add coffee grounds? Is the interface intuitive? How simple is it to clean and descale? A machine that’s difficult to maintain will quickly become a source of frustration. Look for features like programmable timers, strength control, and a thermal carafe if you like your coffee to stay hot for hours. By weighing these factors—installation type, brewing style, physical dimensions, and user-friendliness—you can find a machine that saves precious counter space and brews a perfect cup every morning. This careful selection process is key to finding one of the 10 best under cabinet coffee makers for your home.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main advantage of an under cabinet coffee maker?
The biggest advantage is the massive amount of counter space you save. In a small kitchen, every square inch counts. By mounting your coffee maker under the cabinet, you free up the counter for food prep, other appliances, or just to have a cleaner, more open look. It also keeps the machine out of the way, reducing the risk of accidental bumps and spills.
Are these machines difficult to install?
It really depends on the model. Some are designed for simple DIY installation with a basic mounting bracket—you just screw it into the bottom of your cabinet and slide the machine in. Others, particularly those that connect directly to your home’s water line, are more complex and might require professional installation, especially if you’re not comfortable with basic plumbing. Always check the installation requirements before you buy.
Can I use my own coffee grounds, or do I need special pods?
Most under cabinet models are very flexible. Many are traditional drip coffee makers that use your favorite ground coffee. There are also single-serve versions that use K-Cups or other pods. Some advanced models even offer both options, giving you the flexibility to brew a single cup or a full carafe depending on your needs that day. You are not locked into one type of coffee.
How do I clean and maintain an under cabinet coffee maker?
Maintenance is similar to a standard countertop machine but with a bit more consideration for its location. You’ll still need to regularly run a vinegar solution or a commercial descaling product through it to remove mineral buildup. The key is ensuring the water reservoir and other removable parts are easy to access and take out for cleaning without having to dismount the entire unit. Wiping down the exterior is important to prevent grease and dust from building up in its semi-enclosed space.
Will an under cabinet coffee maker work with any type of cabinet?
Not necessarily. You need to check the specific height and depth requirements of the coffee maker against your cabinet’s dimensions. Most cabinets have a standard clearance, but it’s not universal. Also, the cabinet material matters; you need a solid wood or sturdy plywood cabinet to securely hold the mounting hardware. Particle board or very thin cabinets may not provide a strong enough anchor. When reviewing the list of the 10 best under cabinet coffee makers, always double-check the product specifications against your own kitchen layout.
Do these coffee makers make espresso as well?
Some do, but not all. A standard under cabinet drip coffee maker will brew regular coffee. If you’re looking for espresso-based drinks like lattes and cappuccinos, you need to seek out a specific model that includes an espresso pump and often a built-in or separate milk frothing system. These multi-functional machines are more expensive but can replace multiple countertop appliances.