Ever feel like your standard coffee pot is just too much for your morning routine? If you’re brewing for one or two people, a full 12-cup carafe often leads to waste or stale coffee reheated later. That’s where the humble five cup coffee maker truly shines, offering a perfect, compact solution that delivers just the right amount of fresh coffee without the fuss. It’s a game-changer for small households, office nooks, or anyone who values a freshly brewed pot every single time.
In this review, we’re getting up close with a popular model to see if it lives up to the promise. We’ll talk about how quick it brews, the quality of your morning cup, and whether its smaller footprint is actually a big advantage for your counter space and your daily ritual. Let’s dive in and see if this is the brewer you’ve been looking for.
Product Comparison Table: 10 Best Five Cup Coffee Maker
| Image | Why We Like This Product | Editor’s Rating | |
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Amazon Basics Coffee Makers, 5-Cup Coffee Machines with Reusable…
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9.5 |
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BLACK+DECKER 5-Cup Coffeemaker, DCM600B Black
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9.3 |
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Elite Gourmet EHC9420 Automatic 5-Cup Brew & Drip Coffee…
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9.1 |
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Elite Gourmet EHC4128 Automatic 4-Cup Brew & Drip Coffee…
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9.0 |
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Mr. Coffee® 5-Cup Mini Brew Switch Coffee Maker, Black
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8.8 |
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Mr. Coffee Programmable Coffee Maker 5 Cups with Auto…
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8.6 |
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Mr. Coffee 2134286 ® 5-Cup Mini Brew Switch Coffee…
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8.4 |
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Gourmia Drip Coffee Maker – 5 Cup, One-Touch Brew,…
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8.3 |
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KRUPS Simply Brew Compact 5 Cup Coffee Maker: Stainless…
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8.1 |
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Elite Gourmet EHC-5055 Automatic 5-Cup Brew & Drip Coffee…
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7.9 |
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Quick Review For Top 10 Five Cup Coffee Maker
Amazon Basics Coffee Makers, 5-Cup Coffee Machines with Reusable Filter, Coffee Pots, Black & Stainless Steel
The Amazon Basics 5-Cup Coffee Maker is a straightforward machine designed for simplicity and reliability. It brews just the right amount for a few people, making it a practical choice for small households, apartments, or a personal office space. Its compact size means it won’t take over your counter, fitting neatly into tight spots where a larger machine simply wouldn’t work.
Using it couldn’t be easier. You just add water and coffee, then press the single ON/OFF switch.
A clear indicator light lets you know it’s working, so there’s no guesswork involved. It’s a classic drip brewer that gets the job done without any complicated settings or programs to figure out. You can have a fresh pot ready with minimal effort, which is perfect for your morning routine.
Once your coffee is brewed, the integrated warming plate keeps it hot.
This feature ensures your coffee stays at a drinkable temperature until your ready for your next cup, and it’s designed to do so without burning the flavor. You can turn it off whenever you like, giving you full control. It’s a simple way to avoid wasting coffee or having to reheat a cold cup later.
Safety and durability are considered in its design.
BLACK+DECKER 5-Cup Coffeemaker, DCM600B Black
The BLACK+DECKER 5-Cup Coffeemaker, DCM600B, is a straightforward, reliable machine designed for simplicity and small spaces. It brews just the right amount for a couple of people or for someone who enjoys a few cups throughout the morning without waste. Its compact footprint is a major advantage, tucking neatly onto a crowded countertop, a small RV kitchenette, or a dorm room desk without taking over.
If you don’t need a full 12-cup pot every day, this size makes a lot of practical sense.
At the heart of this coffeemaker is the Duralife glass carafe. BLACK+DECKER reinforces this carafe to be more durable than standard glass, aiming to resist the everyday bumps and handling that can lead to cracks. It feels solid in your hand, and the handle is designed for a secure, comfortable grip.
Helpful markings on the side show you both the water level and the corresponding number of cups, taking the guesswork out of filling. You’ll know exactly how much water to add for the strength you prefer, which is a small but appreciated feature for consistency.
Operation is refreshingly simple. The removable filter basket is compatible with standard basket-style paper filters, and best of all, its dishwasher-safe.
Elite Gourmet EHC9420 Automatic 5-Cup Brew & Drip Coffee Maker with Pause N Serve Reusable Filter, On/Off Switch, Water Level Indicator
The Elite Gourmet EHC9420 Automatic 5-Cup Brew & Drip Coffee Maker is a straightforward machine designed for simplicity and practicality. It brews just the right amount of coffee for your personal use or for sharing with a few others, making it a great fit for small kitchens, offices, or dorm rooms. Its core function is to deliver a reliable cup of coffee without any fuss or complicated features that can get in the way.
A key component is the 5-cup glass carafe, which is the perfect size for brewing a fresh pot without waste. You won’t end up with stale, leftover coffee sitting on the burner for hours. The carafe pairs with a semi-transparent water reservoir that holds exactly what you need. The built-in water level indicator is a helpful visual guide, so you can easily see how much water you’re adding and avoid overfilling or underfilling the machine. It takes the guesswork out of the process.
One of the most appreciated features is the Pause ‘N Serve function. If you’re in a hurry and can’t wait for the full brewing cycle to complete, you can simply slide the carafe out to pour a cup mid-brew. The machine will pause the flow of coffee until you slide the carafe back into place, then it continues brewing without a mess. This is perfect for those mornings when every minute counts. The machine also includes a re-usable, permanent filter housed in a swing-out basket.
Elite Gourmet EHC4128 Automatic 4-Cup Brew & Drip Coffee Maker with Pause N Serve, Glass Carafe, Reusable Filter, On/Off Switch, Keep Warm, Water Level Indicator, Black
The Elite Gourmet EHC4128 Automatic 4-Cup Brew & Drip Coffee Maker is designed for simplicity and efficiency in your daily routine. Its compact size is perfect for a personal coffee ritual or for serving a couple of guests without the waste of a large pot. The semi-transparent water reservoir holds just enough for four cups, and the clear water level indicator takes the guesswork out of filling it. You’ll always know exactly how much coffee your about to make.
A key feature of this model is the Pause ‘N Serve function. This means you don’t have to wait for the entire brewing cycle to finish if your in a hurry. You can simply pause the machine, pour a cup, and then let it continue brewing. It’s a practical solution for those mornings when every minute counts. Once your coffee is ready, the automatic Keep Warm function engages to maintain the temperature, so that last cup is still pleasantly hot.
This coffee maker includes a reusable, permanent filter within its removable filter basket. This not only saves you from repeatedly buying paper filters but also reduces everyday waste. The filter basket is straightforward to clean under the tap, making your cleanup process quick and simple. The carafe is made of durable glass, which is classic and doesn’t retain old coffee flavors like some materials can.
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 a perfect fit for small kitchens, dorm rooms, offices, or any spot where counter space is at a premium. You won’t have to sacrifice a full pot of coffee just because you’re brewing for one or two people.
This little machine focuses on delivering exactly what you need without any complicated fuss.
A standout feature is the Grab-a-Cup Auto Pause function. If you’re in a hurry and can’t wait for the full cycle to finish, you can simply pull the carafe out mid-brew to pour an early cup. The brewing pauses automatically, then resumes when you slide the carafe back in place. It’s a thoughtful touch for those busy mornings when every minute counts.
Just remember, for the best experience and safety, its important to refer to the user manual provided before your first use. This ensures you get everything set up correctly from the start.
Cleanup is often the least enjoyable part of the coffee-making process, but this model aims to simplify it. The Lift & Clean Filter Basket is designed for easy removal. You can lift the entire basket, with the used paper filter and grounds, straight out of the machine for quick disposal.
Mr. Coffee Programmable Coffee Maker 5 Cups with Auto Pause Glass Carafe Compact Design Black
The Mr. Coffee Programmable Coffee Maker 5 Cups is a straightforward machine built for simplicity and convenience. Its compact design means it won’t dominate your countertop, fitting easily into cozy kitchens, dorm rooms, or office spaces. You get a full 25 ounces of capacity, which is ideal for brewing up to two good-sized mugs.
It’s just right for your morning routine or for sharing a quick pot with someone else.
One of it’s key features is the ability to program your brew time in advance. With the Brew Later function, you can set the timer before you go to bed and wake up to the smell of freshly made coffee. No more waiting or fumbling with filters when you’re half-awake. This feature integrates seamlessly with the auto shut-off, which ensures the machine turns itself off after two hours.
This provides peace of mind for safety and helps save a little bit on energy, which is always a good thing.
During the brew cycle, the Auto Pause function lets you sneak a cup before the pot is completely full. Just lift the carafe to pour, and the brewing pauses temporarily. When you slide it back onto the warming plate, it picks up right where it left off. This is perfect for those mornings when you need that first sip immediately.
Mr. Coffee 2134286 ® 5-Cup Mini Brew Switch Coffee Maker, White
The Mr. Coffee 2134286 5-Cup Mini Brew Switch Coffee Maker, White, is a straightforward, compact brewer designed for simplicity and small spaces. It brews up to 25 ounces of coffee, which is ideal for a couple of 12-ounce mugs or for someone who enjoys a few cups throughout the morning. Its entire design philosophy centers on removing fuss from your daily routine. You’ll appreciate the small footprint on your counter.
It fits easily in apartments, dorm rooms, offices, or as a secondary brewer in a guest room. The updated carafe is shaped for a comfortable grip and has clear ounce markings, so you can measure water directly into it for consistent results. No more guessing how much water to add. The easy-to-view water window on the side of the machine lets you confirm the level at a glance, preventing messy overflows before you even start. Operation is simple.
The main control is a single switch with a power indicator light. This light serves a dual purpose: it shows the machine is on and, because it stays lit, it acts as a helpful reminder to turn it off later. A key feature for mornings on the go is the Grab-a-Cup Auto Pause. If you just can’t wait for the full pot to finish, you can slide the carafe out to pour an early cup, and the brewing pauses automatically until you slide it back. It’s a small touch that adds real convenience.
Gourmia Drip Coffee Maker – 5 Cup, One-Touch Brew, Pause & Serve, Adjustable 4 Hr Keep Warm, EZ-View Water Window, Black
The Gourmia Drip Coffee Maker – 5 Cup is designed for the daily coffee drinker who values simplicity, space, and a reliably good cup. Its compact footprint, measuring just 9 inches deep by 6 inches wide, makes it an ideal companion for your kitchen counter, office breakroom, or dorm shelf. At only 3 pounds, its lightweight and slim profile means it won’t dominate your space, brewing just the right amount—up to five cups—for you or a couple of people.
One of it’s standout features is the set-and-forget programmability. You can set the brew time up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring a freshly made pot is waiting for you when you wake up or start your workday. No more waiting around for the machine to finish. The one-touch operation keeps things straightforward, so you can start your routine without fuss. Once brewing, the Pause & Serve function is a practical touch.
It lets you interrupt the cycle to pour a cup early, which is perfect for those mornings when you’re in a hurry. The system automatically stops the flow to prevent drips and mess, and it helps avoid over-extracting the rest of the coffee. After your coffee is ready, the adjustable keep-warm plate gives you control. You can set it to hold your coffee at the right temperature for anywhere from 30 minutes up to 4 hours.
KRUPS Simply Brew Compact 5 Cup Coffee Maker: Stainless Steel Design, Pause & Brew, Keep Warm, Reusable Filter, Drip-Free Carafe
The KRUPS Simply Brew Compact 5 Cup Coffee Maker is designed for those who value simplicity and efficiency in their daily coffee ritual. Its core purpose is to deliver a straightforward, reliable brewing experience tailored perfectly for smaller spaces and fewer people.
This coffee maker’s compact stainless steel design is its most immediate benefit. It fits easily on cramped countertops, in small kitchens, or in a office breakroom without dominating the space.
It brews a full five cups, which is ideal for one or two people. This means you can enjoy a fresh pot without the waste that comes from a larger machine, making it a practical choice for singles, couples, or small households. The build feels solid, and the stainless finish resists fingerprints and wipes clean easily.
Functionality is where this model really shines. The Pause & Brew feature is a small detail that makes a big difference in your routine.
If you need a cup before the cycle is finished, you can simply remove the carafe. The brewing pauses automatically, so no coffee spills onto the heating plate. You can pour that first cup immediately, then replace the carafe to let brewing resume. It’s a thoughtful addition that respects your time.
Once brewing is complete, the Keep Warm function takes over. It maintains your coffee at a pleasant drinking temperature for about half an hour.
Elite Gourmet EHC-5055 Automatic 5-Cup Brew & Drip Coffee Maker with Pause N Serve Reusable Filter, On/Off Switch, Water Level Indicator
The Elite Gourmet EHC-5055 Automatic 5-Cup Brew & Drip Coffee Maker is designed for simplicity and efficiency in your daily routine. It focuses on delivering a straightforward, reliable cup of coffee without any fuss or complicated features. If you’re someone who values a no-nonsense approach to your morning brew, this machine aligns with that practical mindset. Its core functionality starts with the semi-transparent water reservoir.
This holds up to five cups of water and includes a clear level indicator, so you can easily see exactly how much water you’ve added. This means you’ll never accidentally brew a half-pot or overfill it. The water goes directly into brewing a full 5-cup glass carafe. This size is ideal for an individual who enjoys multiple cups throughout the morning or for sharing with a couple of friends or family members.
The carafe is the right capacity to ensure coffee stays fresh and hot without leaving excessive leftovers that go to waste. A particularly handy feature is the Pause ‘N Serve function. This allows you to interrupt the brewing cycle mid-stream to pour a cup if you’re in a hurry. You don’t have to wait for the entire pot to finish before getting your first sip. Just slide the carafe out, pour, and slide it back to let brewing resume. It’s a simple solution for those rushed moments.
Five Cup Coffee Maker Buying Guide
For a small household or office, a five cup coffee maker hits a real sweet spot. It brews just enough for a couple of people without wasting beans or leaving a half-full carafe to get stale. You’ll want to look at brew speed, how easy it is to clean, and the overall size on your counter.
Brew Time and Convenience
Mornings can be rushed. How long are you willing to wait for your coffee? Some models can brew a full pot in under five minutes, while others might take closer to ten. If you’re always running out the door, a faster brew cycle or a programmable start feature is a huge plus. You can set it the night before and wake up to a ready pot.
Carafe Style and Warmth
This is a big one. Do you prefer a classic glass carafe on a hot plate, or a thermal carafe? A hot plate keeps coffee warm but can lead to a burnt taste if it sits too long. A thermal carafe doesn’t use a heating element, so it keeps coffee hot for hours without that bitter flavor. It’s great if you sip slowly throughout the morning.
Cleaning and Maintenance
Nobody likes a difficult clean-up. Check if the machine has a removable filter basket and water reservoir—these parts should go right in the dishwasher. Some models have a built-in cleaning cycle or alert you when it’s time to descale. A simpler design with fewer nooks and crannies usually means less hassle for you on a daily basis.
Footprint and Storage
Even a five cup machine needs a home on your counter. Measure your available space before you buy. Some are surprisingly compact, while others are taller or deeper. Consider where you’ll store it if you don’t plan to leave it out all the time. A smaller, lighter machine is much easier to tuck away in a cabinet when you need the space.
Frequently Asked Questions About Five Cup Coffee Maker
What exactly is a five cup coffee maker?
It’s a standard drip coffee maker designed to brew about five 5-ounce cups. That’s roughly 25 total ounces of coffee. In real terms, it makes enough for a couple large mugs or a few smaller servings. It’s perfect for small households or offices.
How many people does it actually serve?
This depends on how much coffee each person drinks. If you use a standard 8-ounce mug, it’ll make about three full mugs. So it’s ideal for 1-3 people. It’s not meant for big gatherings, but it’s just right for your daily morning brew.
Is it easy to clean and maintain?
Yes, most models are quite simple. The carafe, filter basket, and sometimes teh brew basket are dishwasher safe. You should run a water-vinegar mix through it monthly to decalcify it and keep it running smoothly. This prevents mineral buildup.
Can I use regular ground coffee in it?
Absolutely. You use the same ground coffee you’d use in any drip machine. A medium grind is typically best. Just add the grounds to a paper filter in the basket. The amount you use will determine the strength of your coffee.
Does it have an automatic shut-off feature?
Most modern five cup makers do have auto shut-off. This is a great safety feature that turns the warming plate off after a certain time, usually 30 minutes to 2 hours. Always check the product description to be sure the model you’re looking at includes it.
What’s the main advantage over a larger machine?
It saves counter space and brews a fresher pot for fewer people. With a big 12-cup maker, you might waste coffee or drink stale brew thats been sitting. A five cup maker means you’re more likely to brew a fresh pot every time, which taste better.
Are they generally affordable?
Yes, they are often very budget-friendly. You can find reliable basic models at a low price point. They are a cost-effective way to get your daily coffee without the complexity or expense of larger or single-serve machines.
Our Final Recommendation
So, there you have it. Finding the right coffee maker is really about matching it to your daily routine. Think about how many people you’re usually making coffee for and how much counter space you have. A good machine should fit your life, not the other way around.
For many households, a solid five cup coffee maker hits that sweet spot. It’s enough for a couple of people or for you to enjoy a few cups throughout your morning. It’s simple, it’s reliable, and it gets the job done without any fuss. We hope this helps you find a great match for your kitchen and your morning routine.