10 Best 1 Cup Coffee Makers for Solo Drinkers

The perfect personal brewer for solo coffee drinkers. You know the struggle: brewing a whole pot just for yourself leads to wasted coffee and a stale carafe by afternoon. That’s where a dedicated 1 cup coffee maker shines. It delivers a fresh, hot cup exactly when you want it, with no fuss and zero waste. It’s the simple solution we’ve all needed.

Forget complicated settings or cleaning a huge machine. This is about speed, consistency, and reclaiming your morning ritual. We tested the top models to find which ones truly deliver on that promise of a perfect single serve. Let’s see which one might be your new kitchen hero.

Product Comparison Table: 10 Best 1 Cup Coffee Maker

Image Why We Like This Product Editor’s Rating
Keurig Keurig K-Express Single Serve K-Cup Pod Coffee Maker, 3…

  • Brew a stronger cup or three sizes in minutes
  • Energy-saving auto-off and a large, removable water reservoir

9.7

Read Review

Keurig Keurig K-Mini Mate Single Serve K-Cup Pod Coffee Maker,…

  • Brews a full 12 oz cup in a sleek, space-saving design
  • Compact 4″ width fits anywhere, perfect for small spaces

9.5

Read Review

Keurig Keurig K-Mini Mate Single Serve K-Cup Pod Coffee Maker,…

  • Brews a full 12 oz cup into travel mugs
  • Ultra-compact, fits anywhere at just 4 inches wide

9.4

Read Review

Keurig Keurig K-Mini Mate Single Serve K-Cup Pod Coffee Maker,…

  • Brews a full 12 oz cup into your travel mug
  • Sleek, compact design fits perfectly in tight spaces

9.2

Read Review

Keurig Keurig K-Mini Single Serve K-Cup Pod Coffee Maker, 6…

  • Fits anywhere, less than five inches wide
  • Brew any cup size from 6 to 12 ounces

9.0

Read Review

Tastyle Tastyle Mini Hot and Iced Coffee Maker Single Serve,…

  • Brews perfect iced or hot coffee in minutes
  • Uses less grounds and works with pods

8.9

Read Review

Horavie Horavie Mini Single Serve Coffee Maker for K Cup…

  • Brews K-Cups and ground coffee in minutes
  • Compact, one-button design for any space

8.7

Read Review

Tastyle Tastyle Single Serve One Cup Coffee Maker, for K…

  • Brew pods or grounds anywhere with a to-go handle
  • One-button simplicity for a perfect cup in minutes

8.5

Read Review

Elite Elite Gourmet EHC242M Personal Single-Serve Compact Coffee Maker Brewer…

  • Brew fresh coffee in minutes with your favorite grounds
  • Includes travel mug and reusable filter—no waste, no extra cost

8.4

Read Review

Single Single Serve Coffeemaker, Black

  • Brews directly into your travel mug. Grab and go
  • Compact design fits perfectly in small spaces

8.2

Read Review

Quick Review For Top 10 1 Cup Coffee Maker

Keurig K-Express Single Serve K-Cup Pod Coffee Maker, 3 Brew Sizes, Strong Button Feature, 42oz Removable Reservoir, Warm Stone


Keurig K-Express Single Serve K-Cup Pod Coffee Maker, 3 Brew Sizes, Strong Button Feature, 42oz Removable Reservoir, Warm Stone

The Keurig K-Express Single Serve K-Cup Pod Coffee Maker is designed for straightforward, no-fuss coffee at home. It’s a compact brewer that focuses on getting you a fresh cup quickly, without complicated settings or a large footprint on your counter.

You have three brew size options with this machine: 8, 10, or 12 ounces. Choosing your cup size is as simple as pressing a button. If you prefer a more robust flavor from your K-Cup pod, the dedicated Strong Brew button is there for you.

It adjusts the brewing cycle to give you a more intense and fuller-bodied cup, which is great for those mornings where you need an extra kick.

Speed is a key feature here. The K-Express heats up rapidly and brews your coffee in just minutes. The 42-ounce removable water reservoir is a practical touch. It allows you to brew several cups—up to four 8-ounce servings—before you need to refill it. Being removable makes it easy to fill at your sink and helps keep the unit clean.

The drip tray is also removable, and it’s designed to fit most standard travel mugs up to 7.4 inches tall, so you can brew directly into your to-go cup without any hassle.

For convenience and energy savings, the brewer includes an auto-off function. It will automatically turn itself off five minutes after your last brew, so you don’t have to worry about it if you’re rushing out the door. Another useful feature is it’s compatibility with the My K-Cup Universal Reusable Coffee Filter.

Check It On Amazon

Keurig K-Mini Mate Single Serve K-Cup Pod Coffee Maker, Brews Up to 12 oz Cup, Compact Portable Coffee Machine for Small Spaces, Great for Dorms & Offices, Black


Keurig K-Mini Mate Single Serve K-Cup Pod Coffee Maker, Brews Up to 12 oz Cup, Compact Portable Coffee Machine for Small Spaces, Great for Dorms & Offices, Black

The Keurig K-Mini Mate Single Serve K-Cup Pod Coffee Maker is a coffee machine designed for one simple, essential task: to brew you a single, fresh cup of coffee without taking up your valuable counter space. Its entire design philosophy centers on minimalism and efficiency, making it a practical choice for specific living and working situations. If your kitchen, office desk, or dorm room surface is constantly cluttered, the K-Mini Mate’s compact footprint is its biggest advantage.

At just 4 inches wide, it can tuck into the smallest of gaps. You can easily move it out of the way when not in use, or leave it on a corner of your desk without it becoming a permanent fixture. This isn’t a machine for entertaining a crowd; it’s a personal brewer for your daily routine. It features a one-cup water reservoir, meaning you add fresh water each time you brew.

This ensures your coffee is made with new water every single time, and it eliminates the need for a large, bulky tank that needs constant refilling and cleaning. The brewer accommodates a cup size up to 12 ounces, giving you a decently sized morning brew. A particularly handy feature is its removable drip tray, which allows it to fit taller travel mugs up to 7.25 inches.

Check It On Amazon

Keurig K-Mini Mate Single Serve K-Cup Pod Coffee Maker, Brews Up to 12 oz Cup, Compact Portable Coffee Machine for Small Spaces, Great for Dorms & Offices, Glamping Green


Keurig K-Mini Mate Single Serve K-Cup Pod Coffee Maker, Brews Up to 12 oz Cup, Compact Portable Coffee Machine for Small Spaces, Great for Dorms & Offices, Glamping Green

The Keurig K-Mini Mate Single Serve K-Cup Pod Coffee Maker is for anyone who needs a great cup of coffee without the bulk of a full-size machine. Its entire reason for being is simplicity and saving space, making it a practical choice for specific lifestyles and places.

Lets talk about its size first, because thats the headline. At just 4 inches wide, this is one of the most compact brewers Keurig makes.

It fits perfectly on a crowded kitchen counter, a small office desk, a dorm room shelf, or even in a camper or RV. It tucks away easily when not in use, freeing up valuable surface real estate. If you’ve ever felt like your coffee maker was taking over, this model solves that problem completely.

Despite its small footprint, it brews a full, up to 12-ounce cup of coffee.

The one-cup reservoir means you add fresh water for each brew, which some prefer as it ensures you’re not using stale water sitting in a tank. This system is straightforward: pop in your favorite K-Cup pod, add the corresponding amount of water, and press brew. There’s no complicated programming or large water reservoirs to manage.

A particularly useful feature is its travel mug compatibility.

Check It On Amazon

Keurig K-Mini Mate Single Serve K-Cup Pod Coffee Maker, Brews Up to 12 oz Cup, Compact Portable Coffee Machine for Small Spaces, Great for Dorms & Offices, Red Rocks


Keurig K-Mini Mate Single Serve K-Cup Pod Coffee Maker, Brews Up to 12 oz Cup, Compact Portable Coffee Machine for Small Spaces, Great for Dorms & Offices, Red Rocks

The Keurig K-Mini Mate Single Serve K-Cup Pod Coffee Maker is a coffee machine designed for one simple purpose: to give you a great cup of coffee without taking up much room. If your counter space is precious, this brewer’s compact build, at just 4 inches wide, makes it a practical solution. It fits perfectly in a small apartment kitchen, on a crowded office desk, or in a dorm room where every inch counts. You get a full-function coffee maker that doesn’t dominate your surface.

One of it’s key features is its ability to brew a cup up to 12 ounces. The machine uses a one-cup reservoir, so you add fresh water each time you brew. This means every cup is made with new water, which can contribute to a cleaner taste profile for your coffee. The process is straightforward: pop in a K-Cup pod, add water to the marked fill line for your desired cup size, and press brew. In about a minute, you have a hot, fresh cup ready. Portability is another strong point.

The K-Mini Mate is light and easy to move, but its travel-mug-friendly design really adds to its on-the-go utility. The drip tray is removable, allowing you to fit a travel mug or to-go cup up to 7.25 inches tall underneath. This means you can brew directly into your insulated mug before heading out the door, keeping your coffee hot for longer and eliminating the need to transfer it from a regular cup. It’s a small detail that makes your morning routine more efficient.

Check It On Amazon

Keurig K-Mini Single Serve K-Cup Pod Coffee Maker, 6 to 12oz Brew size, with Cord Storage, Perfect for Small Spaces, Black


Keurig K-Mini Single Serve K-Cup Pod Coffee Maker, 6 to 12oz Brew size, with Cord Storage, Perfect for Small Spaces, Black

The Keurig K-Mini Single Serve Coffee Maker is designed for simplicity and space-saving efficiency. If your countertop is crowded or your kitchen is compact, this machine’s slim profile, at less than five inches wide, means it can tuck into almost any spot. It’s a straightforward solution for getting your coffee fix without a complicated setup.

You control the brew size, choosing any amount between six and twelve ounces.

This flexibility lets you make a smaller, stronger cup or a larger, milder one, all using your favorite Keurig K-Cup pods. There’s no permanent water reservoir to manage or clean; you just add fresh water directly into the machine for each cup you make. This means every brew starts with clean water, and the machine is ready for storage or travel when your not using it.

The brewing process is quick, delivering a fresh cup in just a couple minutes from start to finish.

Practical features keep things neat and easy. The integrated cord storage wraps the power cord around the base, eliminating clutter and making the unit simple to move. The removable drip tray is a key feature for convenience. It slides out to fit most travel mugs up to seven inches tall, so you can brew directly into your to-go cup.

Check It On Amazon

Tastyle Mini Hot and Iced Coffee Maker Single Serve, for K Cup and Ground, 6 to 14 Oz Brew Sizes, with Recipe Book, for Home, Travel, RV, Office and Dorm, Classic Black (2.0 Version)


Tastyle Mini Hot and Iced Coffee Maker Single Serve, for K Cup and Ground, 6 to 14 Oz Brew Sizes, with Recipe Book, for Home, Travel, RV, Office and Dorm, Classic Black (2.0 Version)

The Tastyle Mini Hot and Iced Coffee Maker Single Serve (2.0 Version) is a compact machine designed for how you actually live. Its mini and slim profile takes up minimal counter space, making it a great fit for a small kitchen, office desk, or dorm room. Because it’s so lightweight, you can easily tuck it into a suitcase for travel, use it in your RV, or bring it along to a hotel stay. This is a coffee maker that goes where you go.

What really sets this model apart is its dedicated over ice brew function. You get two options in one machine: hot brew and over ice. The over ice setting is smart—it starts with a hotter brew temperature to fully extract the coffee flavor from your grounds, then cools the coffee down as it brews directly over your cup of ice. This means you get a stong, flavorful iced coffee with less melted ice watering it down.

It brews in about three minutes, and the included recipe book gives you ideas to customize your drinks. The coffee from the over ice function is significantly cooler than the hot brew, perfect for a refreshing chill. You have complete flexibility with your coffee choice. This machine brews both standard K-Cup pods and your own favorite ground coffee, thanks to a reusable filter included.

Check It On Amazon

Horavie Mini Single Serve Coffee Maker for K Cup and Ground Coffee, Fast Brew One Cup Coffee Machine with Descaling Reminder and Water Window, 6 to 12 oz. Brew Sizes, Black


Horavie Mini Single Serve Coffee Maker for K Cup and Ground Coffee, Fast Brew One Cup Coffee Machine with Descaling Reminder and Water Window, 6 to 12 oz. Brew Sizes, Black

The Horavie Mini Single Serve Coffee Maker is designed for simplicity and flexibility in your daily routine. This compact machine brews a single cup directly into your mug, supporting both K-Cup pods and your own ground coffee. It gives you control over your brew size, offering options from a strong 6-ounce shot to a full 12-ounce cup to match your mood.

Whether you prefer the convenience of a pod or the customization of loose grounds, this machine handles it without any fuss.

Constructed with BPA-free and heat-resistant materials, the Horavie prioritizes safety and durability for everyday use. A clear water window on the side is a practical feature, letting you easily check the water level before you start brewing. This helps avoid any interuptions and ensures you have just the right amount for your selected cup size.

The overall design is straightforward, centered around a one-button operation. You press it, and in about two minutes, you have a fresh, hot coffee—ideal for busy mornings when time is tight.

Its small footprint makes the Horavie a versatile companion. It fits perfectly in a cozy apartment kitchen, on a crowded office counter, or even in an RV where space is premium. It’s light enough to move around as needed, making it a personal coffee station wherever you are.

Check It On Amazon

Tastyle Single Serve One Cup Coffee Maker, for K Cups and Grounds, Mini Coffee Maker with Portable Handle, 6 to 12 Oz Brew Size, for Travel, Camping, Office, RV and Dorm, 120V, Black and Gold


Tastyle Single Serve One Cup Coffee Maker, for K Cups and Grounds, Mini Coffee Maker with Portable Handle, 6 to 12 Oz Brew Size, for Travel, Camping, Office, RV and Dorm, 120V, Black and Gold

The Tastyle Single Serve One Cup Coffee Maker is designed for anyone who needs a personal, no-fuss coffee solution outside of a traditional kitchen. Its core idea is simplicity and portability, letting you have a reliable brew wherever you have access to power.

This mini coffee maker is built with travel in mind. It has a integrated carry handle, making it easy to pack and move.

Its compact size fits well in tight spaces like a dorm room desk, an office counter, an RV galley, or even in a suitcase for hotel stays. For camping, note that it requires a specific power source; you’ll need a power bank capable of at least 100V output and 500W power to operate it away from a standard outlet, though brewing time will be longer at that voltage.

Operation is straightforward.

You have two brewing options: use your favorite K-Cup pods with the included holder, or use loose ground coffee with the reusable mesh filter, which can hold up to 20 grams. The filter’s lid helps keep grounds out of your cup. Both of these parts are dishwasher-safe for easy cleanup. You simply fill the 12-ounce visible water tank to your desired mark—choosing from 6, 8, 10, or 12 ounces to control strength—add your coffee, and press the single button.

Check It On Amazon

Elite Gourmet EHC242M Personal Single-Serve Compact Coffee Maker Brewer Includes 12oz. Dual Wall, Travel Mug with Stainless Steel Interior, Compatible with Coffee Grounds, Reusable Mesh Filter, Mint


Elite Gourmet EHC242M Personal Single-Serve Compact Coffee Maker Brewer Includes 12oz. Dual Wall, Travel Mug with Stainless Steel Interior, Compatible with Coffee Grounds, Reusable Mesh Filter, Mint

The Elite Gourmet EHC242M Personal Single-Serve Compact Coffee Maker is designed for the person who values a fresh, personal cup of coffee without the waste or the wait. This compact system puts you in control, letting you brew exactly what you want, when you want it, using your favorite coffee grounds. At its heart, this coffee maker is about simplicity and efficiency. The one-touch operation is incredibly straightforward.

You add your coffee, press the button, and in just minutes, you have a fresh, hot brew. Its 700-watt system heats water quickly, so you’re not standing around waiting. It’s perfect for those rushed mornings when every minute counts, providing a quick pick-me-up before you head out the door. You save the trip to the coffee shop and the time spent in line. A standout feature is the included 12-ounce dual-wall travel mug. This isn’t an afterthought; it’s an integral part of the brewer.

The mug has a stainless steel interior to help maintain temperature and fits snugly under the coffee dispenser. Once your coffee is brewed, you simply put on the lid with its stopper and go. It’s designed to fit most car cup holders, making your commute or errands that much smoother. Because you’re using a reusable mug, you eliminate the need for disposable paper or plastic cups, which is a win for both your wallet and the environment. The brewer champions using fresh ground coffee.

Check It On Amazon

Single Serve Coffeemaker, Black


Single Serve Coffeemaker, Black

The Single Serve Coffeemaker in Black is designed for the individual who values simplicity and efficiency in their morning routine. Its core purpose is straightforward: to brew one perfect cup of coffee directly into your travel mug, eliminating extra dishes and complication.

This isn’t an appliance meant for entertaining a crowd; it’s a personal brewer that focuses entirely on your coffee.

Its construction combines durable plastic with stainless steel accents, offering a sleek, modern look in black that fits with most kitchen decors. The real highlight is its compact footprint. We know counter space is precious, especially in small kitchens, cozy apartments, or busy dorm rooms.

This coffeemaker’s space-saving design ensures it tucks neatly into a corner, leaving room for your other essentials without sacrificing your daily brew.

Functionality is where this model truly shines. It heats water to the optimal brewing temperature, which is a critical detail often overlooked in single-serve machines. Properly heated water ensures the coffee grounds are extracted correctly, giving you a cup with balanced flavor and avoiding a weak or bitter taste.

Check It On Amazon

1 Cup Coffee Maker Buying Guide

The ideal single-serve brewer minimizes waste without sacrificing coffee quality. But with so many options, how do your choose the right one for your morning routine? This guide breaks down the key factors to consider when selecting your perfect 1 cup coffee maker.

Brewing Method & Pod Compatibility

Do you love the convenience of pre-filled pods, or prefer the flexibility and lower cost of ground coffee? Machines designed for K-Cups or Nespresso pods are incredibly fast and mess-free. However, if you want to use your own favorite grounds, look for a model with a reusable filter basket. Some brewers even offer both options, giving you the best of both worlds.

Size and Footprint

Counter space is precious. A major advantage of a single-cup machine is its small size. Before you buy, measure your available space. Consider not just the brewer’s width and depth, but also its height—you’ll need to fit your favorite mug underneath the spout. A compact, lightweight design is also a plus if you plan to tuck it away after use or take it traveling.

Brew Strength and Temperature

Not all machines brew the same. For a rich, full-flavored cup, look for a brewer with adjustable strength settings. Water temperature is crucial too; proper extraction happens around 195°F to 205°F. A machine that doesn’t get hot enough can produce weak, sour coffee. Reading reviews can often tell you if a model consistently brews a hot, satisfying cup.

Ease of Cleaning

Nobody wants a complicated clean-up. Removable parts like the drip tray and water reservoir should be easy to take out and wash. For pod machines, check how often you need to decalcify it and how simple the process is. A brewer with minimal nooks and crannies will save you time and keep your coffee tasting fresh, without old oils or residue affecting the flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions About 1 Cup Coffee Maker

What is a 1 cup coffee maker?

It’s a small appliance designed to brew just a single serving of coffee. It’s perfect for one person, small kitchens, or offices. You don’t have to make a whole pot, which means less waste and fresher coffee each time.

How does it work?

Most models are very simple. You add water to a reservoir and put ground coffee in a filter. Press a button, and hot water drips through the grounds into your mug. It’s quick, usually taking just a couple minutes from start to finish.

Can I use regular ground coffee?

Yes, absolutely. You use the same ground coffee you’d use in a standard drip machine. Some people prefer a slightly finer grind for a single cup, but pre-ground coffee from the store works perfectly fine.

Are thay easy to clean?

Generally, yes. Many have removable parts that are dishwasher safe. It’s important to decalcify or descale it occasionally if you have hard water. A quick rinse after each use keeps it tasting great.

Do they make strong coffee?

You can control the strength. Using more coffee grounds or a darker roast will give you a bolder cup. Some machines even have a “bold” or “strong brew” button that slows the water flow for better extraction.

What’s the difference between this and a pod machine?

A 1 cup drip maker uses your own ground coffee, which is often cheaper and creates less waste than pods. Pod machines, like Keurigs, are more about convenience and speed but limit your coffee choices a bit more.

Can I make tea or hot water with it?

Many models can. You can run just hot water through the machine without coffee grounds. This is handy for making tea, instant soups, or hot cocoa. Just check the product description to be sure.

Are they expensive to run?

Not really. They use less electricity than a full-size pot becuase they heat less water. Since you’re only brewing what you need, you also save money on coffee by not wasting a half-pot. The initial cost is usually quite low to.

Wrapping Things Up

Your solo coffee journey begins with these options. Finding the right fit is about matching a machine to your morning style. Do you want speed, or a specific brew strength? Is a small footprint your main priority? Answering these simple questions points you toward your perfect daily cup.

No matter which model you choose, a dedicated 1 cup coffee maker simplifies your routine. It promises a fresh, hot cup with minimal fuss and no waste. It’s a straightforward tool for a reliable result, giving you more time to enjoy that first, important sip. So consider what you need most, and you’ll find a great partner for your personal coffee ritual.

Leave a Comment