Ever find yourself staring at a full pot of coffee you know you won’t finish? That daily waste is exactly why the humble one cup drip coffee maker has become a kitchen hero for solo sippers. It promises a fresh, hot cup with zero fuss and no leftover guilt, making your morning routine simpler and way more sustainable. It’s a straightforward solution that just makes sense for so many of us.
But with so many models on the market, how do you choose the right one? We’ve tested the top contenders to find which machines deliver on that perfect single-serve promise. Let’s dive into which brewers offer the best flavor, speed, and reliability for your daily cup.
Product Comparison Table: 10 Best One Cup Drip Coffee Maker
| Image | Why We Like This Product | Editor’s Rating | |
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Elite Gourmet EHC111A Personal Single-Serve Compact Coffee Maker Brewer…
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9.7 |
Read Review |
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OXO Brew Single Serve Pour-Over Coffee Maker
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9.5 |
Read Review |
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Hamilton Beach The Scoop Single Serve Coffee Maker &…
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9.3 |
Read Review |
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Melitta Filter Coffee Maker, Single Cup Pour-Over Brewer, Black,…
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9.1 |
Read Review |
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Elite Gourmet EHC113 Personal Single-Serve Compact Coffee Maker Brewer…
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8.9 |
Read Review |
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Single Serve Coffeemaker, Black
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8.6 |
Read Review |
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Mr. Coffee® 5-Cup Mini Brew Switch Coffee Maker, Black
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8.4 |
Read Review |
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Elite Gourmet EHC113M Personal Single-Serve Compact Coffee Maker Brewer…
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8.2 |
Read Review |
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Keurig K-Express Single Serve Coffee Maker – Strong Brew…
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8.0 |
Read Review |
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Bodum 17oz Pour Over Coffee Maker, High-Heat Borosilicate Glass…
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7.8 |
Read Review |
Quick Review For Top 10 One Cup Drip Coffee Maker
Elite Gourmet EHC111A Personal Single-Serve Compact Coffee Maker Brewer Includes 14Oz. Stainless Steel Interior Thermal Travel Mug, Compatible with Coffee Grounds, Reusable Filter, Black
The Elite Gourmet EHC111A Personal Single-Serve Compact Coffee Maker is designed for one simple thing: getting a fresh, hot cup of coffee into your hands with minimal fuss. If your morning routine feels rushed or your kitchen space is limited, this brewer aims to streamline your day right from the first sip. Its core promise is speed. The 600-watt system can brew a cup in under 60 seconds, which is a genuine help when every minute counts.
You just add your favorite coffee grounds—it uses a reusable filter, so no ongoing cost for pods or paper filters—press the single button, and it gets to work. The operation couldn’t be simpler; it’s truly a one-touch process. It heats water to what’s described as a coffee-house temperature, so you’re getting a properly hot brew, not just warm water. This consistency is key for a satisfying cup. A major highlight is the included 14-ounce stainless steel thermal travel mug.
The mug is designed to fit directly under the dispenser, so your coffee flows right into it. The insulation means your drink stays hot for your commute, and the lid secures it for spill-resistant travel. The “click, brew, and go” idea is literally built in. You don’t have to transfer your coffee from a pot to a mug, which saves time and avoids another dish to wash. It’s a thoughtful feature that makes the whole system cohesive. The design philosophy here is compact and personal.
OXO Brew Single Serve Pour-Over Coffee Maker
The OXO Brew Single Serve Pour-Over Coffee Maker is for anyone who loves the taste of a carefully crafted pour-over but wants to skip the fuss and technique. It brings the control and flavor of a manual brew into your morning routine without the need for a gooseneck kettle or a steady hand. This brewer’s key feature is it’s auto-drip tank. You fill it with hot water, and it takes over from there, controlling the water flow automatically.
This ensures a consistent, well-balanced extraction every single time. You get the full, flavorful notes of your favorite coffee grounds without the risk of over or under-pouring. The tank has clear measurement markings, showing you exactly how much water to add for your perfect cup, up to 12 ounces. This takes the guesswork out completely—just add water to the line corresponding to your desired brew size. A clever design detail is the brewer’s lid.
It snaps onto the top of the tank during brewing to help retain heat, which is crucial for proper extraction. Once your coffee is done, the lid easily converts into a handy drip tray. You can place your brewer right on top of your mug, and the lid-catch any final drips, keeping your counter clean. It’s a simple but effective two-in-one feature that shows thoughtful engineering. The brewer comes ready to use with 10 OXO Unbleached All-Natural #2 cone filters.
Hamilton Beach The Scoop Single Serve Coffee Maker & Fast Grounds Brewer for 8-14oz. Cups, Brews in Minutes, Black (47620), Next Gen
The Hamilton Beach The Scoop Single Serve Coffee Maker (47620), Next Gen, is designed for anyone who wants a straightforward, no-fuss cup of coffee without the ongoing cost and waste of single-use pods. It’s a simple machine that puts you in control of your brew, from the beans you choose to the size of your morning mug.
Its core feature is right in the name: The Scoop.
The machine’s permanent filter is shaped like a scoop, so you can use it to directly measure your favorite ground coffee from the bag. There’s no need for a separate scoop or messy measuring spoons. You just scoop your preferred amount, place the filter into the machine, and you’re ready to brew. This direct approach eliminates the guesswork and simplifies your routine.
It’s a very intuitive system that gets you from cabinet to coffee cup with minimal steps.
This design is also inherently eco-friendly and easy on your wallet. Because it uses a permanent, reusable filter and your own ground coffee, you completely avoid buying disposable plastic K-Cup pods or paper filters. There’s less to purchase over time and virtually nothing to throw away after each cup. You get to enjoy fresh coffee flavor while reducing kitchen waste, which is a win-win.
Melitta Filter Coffee Maker, Single Cup Pour-Over Brewer, Black, 1 Count (640007)
Melitta Filter Coffee Maker, Single Cup Pour-Over Brewer, Black, 1 Count (640007)
For coffee drinkers who value control and clarity in their cup, the Melitta Single Cup Pour-Over Brewer offers a straightforward and rewarding path. This isn’t about complex machinery or pre-programmed buttons. It’s about the simple ritual of handcrafting a single, excellent serving of coffee, exactly how you like it.
The system is elegantly minimal: a durable plastic cone, designed to sit directly on your favorite mug, and it even comes with a starter pack of Melitta’s own Number 2 paper filters to get you going right away. The process itself is part of the appeal. You place a filter in the cone, add your freshly ground coffee, and slowly pour hot water over the grounds. This manual method is favored by many coffee aficionados for good reason.
It allows you to control every variable—the speed of your pour, the water temperature, and the saturation of the grounds—which directly influences the flavor extraction. The cone’s smart design gives you a clear view, so you can easily monitor the water level and avoid any messy overflows. This hands-on approach means you’re not just making coffee; you’re actively participating in brewing it, which many find to be a calming and satisfying start to the day.
Elite Gourmet EHC113 Personal Single-Serve Compact Coffee Maker Brewer Includes 14Oz. Stainless Steel Interior Thermal Travel Mug, Compatible with Coffee Grounds, Reusable Filter, Black
The Elite Gourmet EHC113 Personal Single-Serve Compact Coffee Maker is designed for one simple purpose: to get a fresh, hot cup of coffee into your hands quickly and without fuss. It’s a complete personal brewing system that’s ideal for busy mornings, small spaces, or anyone who wants to avoid the daily coffee shop line and waste. At its heart, this is a brewer that uses your own coffee grounds.
You’re in control of the blend and strength, using the included reusable filter—no need for disposable paper filters or expensive pods. That means less waste and more flavor tailored just for you. The operation couldn’t be simpler. With a one-touch button, the 600-watt system heats and brews directly into the included 14-ounce travel mug in under a minute. Seriously, from scooping grounds to having a ready-to-go cup takes about 60 seconds. It’s about saving you valuable time.
And speaking of the mug, it’s a key feature. This isn’t a flimsy paper cup; it’s a stainless steel thermal mug with a #304 interior. The brewer is built to dispense right into it, and the mug’s size is made to fit standard car cup holders. You click brew, it fills the mug, you snap on the lid, and you’re out the door. The coffee stays hot during your commute, and you’ve eliminated a disposable cup. It’s a win-win.
Single Serve Coffeemaker, Black
The Single Serve Coffeemaker in Black is designed for one simple purpose: to get you a great cup of coffee, fast, with minimal fuss. It’s built for individuals, people who live alone or have different schedules than their housemates. If your morning routine is hectic or your kitchen counter space is precious, this machine aims to fit seamlessly into your life.
Its core design is compact and thoughtful. This isn’t a large, bulky appliance.
It’s made to save space, making it a practical choice for small kitchens, studio apartments, dorm rooms, or even an office cubicle. A key feature is the included travel mug. The coffeemaker brews directly into it, so you can literally grab and go the moment it’s finished. There’s no extra carafe to wash or transfer from, which cuts down on cleanup and gets you out the door quicker.
The construction uses a combination of plastic and stainless steel, offering durability where it counts and keeping the overall unit lightweight.
We know a good cup isn’t just about convenience—it’s about taste. This model focuses on achieving optimal brewing temperature. The internal system heats the water to the level recommended by coffee experts, which is crucial for properly extracting flavor from your grounds.
Mr. Coffee® 5-Cup Mini Brew Switch Coffee Maker, Black
The Mr. Coffee® 5-Cup Mini Brew Switch Coffee Maker, Black is designed for simplicity and convenience in your daily routine. Its compact footprint makes it an ideal solution for small kitchens, dorm rooms, offices, or any space where a full-sized coffee maker just doesn’t fit. You get a dedicated machine that brews just the right amount for a few cups, minimizing waste and countertop clutter.
The updated ergonomic carafe is easy to hold and pour, and its glass construction features clear ounce markings so you can measure water and coffee perfectly every time.
One of the standout features of this mini brewer is the Grab-a-Cup Auto Pause function. If you need to sneak a cup of coffee before the brewing cycle is completely finished, you can simply lift the carafe out. The machine automatically pauses the flow, so you don’t end up with a mess on the hot plate.
It then resumes brewing once you place the carafe back. This is perfect for those mornings when you just can’t wait for the entire pot to finish. Cleanup is also straightforward, thanks to the Lift & Clean Filter Basket. You can easily remove the entire basket—filter and all—to dispose of grounds without any fuss. This helps keep the machine tidy with minimal effort.
It’s important to note that you should refer to the user guide or manual provided before first use.
Elite Gourmet EHC113M Personal Single-Serve Compact Coffee Maker Brewer Includes 14Oz. Stainless Steel Interior Thermal Travel Mug, Compatible with Coffee Grounds, Reusable Filter, Mint
The Elite Gourmet EHC113M Personal Single-Serve Compact Coffee Maker is designed for simplicity and efficiency in your daily routine. This compact brewer focuses on getting you a fresh, personal cup of coffee quickly, without the fuss or waste of single-use pods. It’s a straightforward solution for anyone with limited space or a tight morning schedule. At its core, this system is built around convenience and portability.
The brewer itself is narrow and lightweight, making it easy to tuck away in a small kitchen, dorm, or office. It’s also simple to pack for trips. The included 14-ounce stainless steel thermal travel mug is a key feature. It has a 304-grade interior, fits under the brewer’s dispenser, and is designed to slot into most car cup holders. This means you can brew your coffee directly into the mug, snap on the lid, and head out the door immediately.
There’s no need for disposable paper cups, which reduces waste and keeps your coffee hotter for longer during your commute. Operation could not be more simpler. With a one-touch button, the 600-watt system heats water and brews a full mug of coffee in under 60 seconds. You use your own preferred coffee grounds with the provided reusable filter, allowing you to control the strength and flavor of each cup. This also means no ongoing cost for proprietary pods or paper filters.
Keurig K-Express Single Serve Coffee Maker – Strong Brew Option, 42oz Reservoir, Sleek Design for Holiday Hosting & Gifting, Black
The Keurig K-Express Single Serve Coffee Maker is a straightforward machine designed to fit right into your daily routine. It brews a single, fresh cup of coffee quickly, which means no more waiting for a full pot or dealing with wasted coffee. Its compact, sleek black design looks good on any counter and won’t take up to much space, making it a practical choice for kitchens of all sizes. One of it’s key features is the Strong Brew option.
If you find that your regular K-Cup coffee sometimes tastes a bit weak, this button is for you. It adjusts the brewing process to extract more flavor, giving you a bolder and more robust cup without needing a different pod. You can choose from three cup sizes—8, 10, or 12 ounces—with just a push of a button, so whether you want a small strong shot or a larger mug, you’re covered. The 42-ounce removable water reservoir is a real convenience.
You can brew up to four cups before needing a refill, which is perfect for when you have a couple of guests or just don’t want to refill constantly. The reservoir is easy to take out and fill at your sink. Plus, the removable drip tray slides out to fit most travel mugs, so you can brew directly into your to-go cup without any spills. This machine is built with simplicity in mind. It heats up fast and brews a cup in minutes, getting you your coffee without a long wait.
Bodum 17oz Pour Over Coffee Maker, High-Heat Borosilicate Glass with Reusable Stainless Steel Filter and Cork Grip – Made in Portugal
The Bodum 17oz Pour Over Coffee Maker is a thoughtfully designed manual brewer that focuses on simplicity, flavor, and sustainability. It brings the classic pour-over ritual into your kitchen without the need for paper filters, offering a straightforward path to a clean and robust cup of coffee.
At its core, this brewer is built around an innovative, environmentally friendly concept. It uses a permanent stainless steel filter, which is a key feature.
This means you won’t be buying or throwing away paper filters ever again, significantly reducing waste. More importantly, this metal filter allows the coffee’s natural essential oils to pass through into your cup, unlike paper which can absorb them. This results in a brew with more body and a richer, more complex flavor profile that many coffee enthusiasts prefer.
The carafe is made from high-heat borosilicate glass, a material known for its durability and resistance to thermal shock.
This glass is completely neutral, meaning it won’t impart any flavors or aromas of its own to your coffee. Your coffee tastes exactly as it should, with all its intended notes and characteristics preserved from the brew to the last sip. The glass is also remarkably easy to clean, and both the carafe and the stainless steel filter are dishwasher safe for ultimate convenience.
Handling the hot carafe is secure and comfortable thanks to its integrated cork sleeve.
One Cup Drip Coffee Maker Buying Guide
For a single, fresh cup without a full pot, a one cup drip coffee maker is a real space-saver. It’s straightforward: you add grounds and water, and it brews directly into your mug. The key is finding one that fits your morning routine and counter space.
Brew Speed and Temperature
How long are you willing to wait? Some models brew in under three minutes, while others take a bit longer. A faster brew is great for rushed mornings, but ensure it still heats water to teh proper temperature—around 195°F to 205°F—for good extraction. A machine that brews to cold won’t taste right.
Mug Size and Carafe Compatibility
Check the clearance under the brew head. Will it fit your favorite tall travel mug? Many have adjustable trays or even include a small, reusable carafe. If you sometimes want a second cup for a friend, a model with a carafe is a smart choice over a strict single-mug design.
Ease of Cleaning
This is a daily task, so keep it simple. Look for a removable drip tray and a filter basket that’s easy to rinse. Some have permanent filters, which saves you buying paper ones, but thay need regular washing. A machine with lots of nooks can be frustrating to clean.
Footprint and Storage
Your kitchen real estate is valuable. These are compact by design, but some are surprisingly deep. If you plan to tuck it away, measure your cabinet shelf first. A slender, vertical design often fits easier on a crowded counter or stores better than a wide one.
Extra Features You Might Want
Consider what’s useful for you. A programmable timer means your coffee is ready when you wake up. A pause-and-serve function lets you grab the mug mid-brew. A simple on/off switch might be all you need, and that’s perfectly fine. Don’t pay for features you won’t actually use.
Frequently Asked Questions About One Cup Drip Coffee Maker
What is a one cup drip coffee maker?
It’s a small machine that brews a single serving of coffee directly into your mug. You add ground coffee to a filter, pour in water, and it drips hot water through teh grounds. It’s simple and fast.
How is it different from a single-serve pod machine?
It uses your own ground coffee instead of pre-packaged pods. This gives you more choice in coffee type and is often less expensive per cup. It also creates less plastic waste, which is a nice bonus.
Can I use it for tea or hot water?
Most models have a hot water function. You can run just hot water through it for tea, cocoa, or instant soups. Just be sure to clean it well afterwards so your coffee doesn’t taste like tea.
What kind of coffee grounds work best?
You can use any pre-ground coffee meant for drip machines. A medium grind is typically ideal. Avoid espresso-fine grinds as thay can clog the filter and make a mess.
Is it easy to clean?
Yes, they are generally very easy. The main parts are the carafe or mug stand, the filter basket, and the water reservoir. Most are dishwasher safe for quick cleaning. A quick rinse after each use keeps it fresh.
How long does it take to brew a cup?
It’s quite quick! Most machines will brew a fresh cup in about 2 to 4 minutes. It’s perfect for when your in a hurry in the morning and need just one cup.
Can I make a stronger cup of coffee?
Absolutely. You can control the strength by using more coffee grounds for the same amount of water. Some models also have a “bold” or strength setting if you prefer a more robust flavor.
Do they come with a reusable filter?
Many models include a permanent, mesh filter. This means you don’t need to buy paper filters all the time. If yours doesn’t, you can usually buy a compatible reusable one seperately.
Conclusion
So, that’s a good look at what these little machines can do. They’re really about making things easy for you. You get a fresh cup without any fuss or leftover coffee. It’s a simple way to start your day right.
In the end, choosing the right one cup drip coffee maker comes down to your own routine. Think about what you need most—speed, strength, or just keeping it simple. Once you find your match, you can enjoy a perfect single serving every morning. It’s a small thing that makes a big difference in your day, don’t you think?