Ever have one of those mornings where you just need a perfect cup of coffee, but brewing a whole pot feels like a massive chore? That’s where a good single cup drip coffee maker comes in, a true lifesaver for solo sippers or small households. It promises a fresh, hot brew in minutes with zero waste, which honestly sounds to good to be true sometimes.
But with so many models on the market, how do you find the one that’s right for you? We’ve tested the top contenders to cut through the noise. This review will break down everything from brew speed to flavor quality, helping you find your new morning hero without the guesswork.
Product Comparison Table: 10 Best Single 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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9.9 |
Read Review |
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Ninja | Coffee Maker | Single Serve |Brew with…
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9.7 |
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OXO Brew Single Serve Pour-Over Coffee Maker
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9.4 |
Read Review |
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Bodum 17oz Pour Over Coffee Maker, High-Heat Borosilicate Glass…
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9.2 |
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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8.7 |
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Mr. Coffee® 5-Cup Mini Brew Switch Coffee Maker, Black
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8.4 |
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Hamilton Beach The Scoop Single Serve Coffee Maker &…
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8.2 |
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Hamilton Beach 2-Way Programmable Coffee Maker, 12 Cup Glass…
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7.9 |
Read Review |
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Keurig K-Express Single Serve Coffee Maker – Strong Brew…
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7.7 |
Read Review |
Quick Review For Top 10 Single 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 as fast as possible. This isn’t a complicated machine with a dozen settings. It’s a straightforward brewer that respects your time, especially when your morning schedule is tight. Its biggest advantage is speed. The Quick Instant Brew feature means you can have a freshly brewed cup in under 60 seconds.
That’s faster than waiting in line at a cafe and quicker than most other brewing methods. You just add your favorite coffee grounds, press the single button, and it gets to work. The 600-watt system heats water rapidly, delivering coffee at a consistent, coffee-house temperature without any guesswork. The operation truly is single-touch, making it foolproof even before you’ve had your first sip. This coffee maker comes with a key accessory: a 12oz. stainless steel insulated travel mug.
The mug is designed to fit perfectly under the dispenser, so your coffee brews directly into it. The stainless steel interior helps keep it hot for your commute. There’s no need to transfer from a pot to a mug, which saves time and creates less mess. You literally click the button, let it brew, and then you can head out the door. The included reusable filter is also a nice touch, saving you money on paper filters and reducing waste.
Ninja | Coffee Maker | Single Serve |Brew with Coffee Pods & Grounds| Compatible with K-Cup Coffee Pods | 4 Brew Styles, up to 24oz Cup Sizes & 56oz Removable Reservoir | Black | PB051
The Ninja PB051 Single-Serve Coffee Maker is designed to fit your coffee routine, whatever that looks like. It gives you the freedom to choose between using your favorite ground coffee for a tailored flavor or popping in a K-Cup pod for pure speed and simplicity. You don’t have to commit to one method, which is great if your morning mood changes.
You get four distinct brew styles to pick from.
Choose ‘Classic’ for a well-balanced cup, ‘Rich’ for a more intense flavor, ‘Over Ice’ so your iced coffee doesn’t get watered down, or ‘Specialty’ which creates a concentrated brew perfect for making lattes and other coffeehouse-style drinks at home. The built-in, fold-away frother helps with that too—it heats and froths milk or alternatives for creamy cappuccinos, and it’s removable for easy cleaning.
When it comes to size, the versatility is impressive.
For pods, you can brew a 6, 8, 10, or 12-ounce cup. If you’re using grounds, your options expand to include 14, 18, and even a large 24-ounce travel mug size. The machine fits mugs up to 8 inches tall, so you can take your coffee straight from the brewer to your car. The 56-ounce water reservoir is removable, making it easy to fill at your sink instead of trying to pour water into the machine.
Despite all these features, the Ninja PB051 has a surprisingly compact design.
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 made pour-over but doesn’t want the fuss and technique it usually requires. It brings the cafe-quality experience right to your kitchen counter, with a design that handles the tricky parts for you. At it’s heart is the auto-drip tank. This is what makes everything so simple.
You just fill the tank with hot water—using the clear measurement markings that go up to 12 ounces—place it on top of the brewer, and it takes over from there. The tank controls the water flow automatically, releasing it in a steady, slow stream over your coffee grounds. This consistent saturation is key for extracting full, balanced flavor without any bitterness, and it happens with no pouring skill needed on your part. You get a reliable, delicious cup every single time.
The design includes several thoughtful features that add to the convenience. The lid is a great example; it snaps onto the bottom of the brewer to retain heat while your coffee is dripping through, which keeps the brew temperature optimal. Once your coffee is done, that same lid flips over to become a handy drip tray for your mug. This means you can move the whole setup straight from the brewer to your coffee station or sink without any mess.
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, flavorful cup.
At its core is the high-heat borosilicate glass carafe. This isn’t ordinary glass; it’s laboratory-grade material known for its durability and resistance to thermal shock.
More importantly, it’s completely inert. This means the glass won’t absorb any residual flavors or aromas from your coffee, and it won’t impart any of its own. Every time you brew, you’re getting the pure, unaltered taste profile of your beans, from the bright acidic notes to the deep, rich undertones.
The carafe also features clear measurement markings, so you can easily track your water as you pour.
Instead of disposable paper filters, this brewer uses a permanent, fine stainless steel mesh filter. This is a key feature for both your coffee and the environment. By eliminating paper, you significantly reduce ongoing waste and cost. The metal filter also allows coffee’s natural essential oils and fine micro-particles to pass through into your cup.
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 the individual who values speed, simplicity, and a good cup of coffee without the waste. This isn’t a complicated machine; it’s a straightforward solution for getting your coffee fix at home, at the office, or anywhere you need it. At its heart, this system is built around a 14-ounce stainless steel travel mug. The mug has a #304 interior, which is insulated to keep your coffee hot.
The real benefit is that it eliminates the need for disposable paper or plastic cups entirely. The mug fits right under the coffee dispenser, so your brew goes straight into the vessel you’ll drink from. It’s designed to fit most standard car cup holders too, making the transition from kitchen to car seamless. The process is as simple as it gets: just click the mug into place, press the one-touch button, and in under 60 seconds, your coffee is ready to go.
You have full control over your brew because this machine uses your own coffee grounds. It comes with a removable and reusable filter, so you can say goodbye to buying paper filters. Prefer a specific blend or a stronger grind? You can use it. Want to try loose-leaf tea? That works too. The 600-watt system heats water quickly, delivering coffee at the right temperature without the long wait or the high price of a coffee shop run.
Single Serve Coffeemaker, Black
The Single Serve Coffeemaker in Black is designed for one thing: getting you a great cup of coffee with zero fuss. It’s built for individuals, people who live alone, or households where everyone has their own favorite brew. If your morning routine needs to be simple and efficient, this machine fits right in. Its core advantage is the compact, space-saving design. This coffeemaker won’t dominate your counter.
It’s a perfect fit for small kitchens, cozy apartments, dorm rooms, or even an office desk. The unit brews directly into the included travel mug, which means one less dish to wash and your coffee is ready to go the moment it’s done. You just pop in your favorite ground coffee, add water, and press start. In minutes, you’re walking out the door with a fresh brew. We know good coffee depends on proper extraction. That’s why this model focuses on maintaining an optimal brewing temperature.
The system heats the water to the right level to properly saturate the coffee grounds, helping to ensure you get a balanced and flavorful cup every time. It’s a straightforward process that prioritizes consistency over complicated settings. Safety and convenience are built in with the automatic shutoff feature. Once the brewing cycle is complete, the coffeemaker turns itself off. This gives you peace of mind, especially on busy mornings when you’re rushing out.
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, especially if your counter space is limited or you typically brew for just yourself or one other person. Its compact footprint means it won’t dominate your kitchen, fitting easily into small apartments, dorm rooms, offices, or as a secondary brewer in a larger home.
The design is straightforward, focusing on the essentials of making a good pot of coffee without any complicated settings.
One of it’s most practical features is the Grab-a-Cup Auto Pause function. If you need to pour a cup of coffee before the full brewing cycle is complete, 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 resumes brewing once you slide the carafe back into place.
This is perfect for those mornings when you just can’t wait for the entire pot to finish. The updated ergonomic carafe is made of glass and is designed for a comfortable grip and controlled pouring, with clear ounce markings on the side to help you measure water and track how much you’ve brewed.
Cleanup is intentionally simple. The Lift & Clean filter basket allows you to easily remove the entire basket—filter and used grounds included—straight to the trash or compost.
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 offers a refreshingly simple alternative to more complicated machines.
Its core feature is the integrated scoop and filter. The permanent filter itself is shaped like a scoop, so you just dig into your bag of ground coffee, level it off, and place it right into the machine.
There’s no measuring spoon needed and no paper filters to buy or throw away. This approach is both economical and eco-friendly. You get to use any coffee you prefer, from the grocery store brand to your favorite local roast, and you avoid the plastic and packaging waste associated with K-Cup pods. It’s a win for your wallet and a small win for the planet.
Brewing is incredibly intuitive. There’s just one large button with a clear LED light.
You press it, the light comes on, and your coffee starts flowing in minutes. The process is quick, meaning you’re not waiting long for that first, fresh-brewed cup in the morning. The machine is built to accomodate different cup sizes, too. The adjustable cup stand flips up to fit a standard 8-ounce mug, or flips down to make room for a taller travel mug up to 7 inches high, holding up to 14 ounces of coffee.
Hamilton Beach 2-Way Programmable Coffee Maker, 12 Cup Glass Carafe And Single Serve Coffee Maker, Black with Stainless Steel Accents, 49980RG
The Hamilton Beach 2-Way Programmable Coffee Maker, 49980RG, is designed for households where not everyone wants the same amount of coffee at the same time. Its core idea is flexibility: it functions as both a full 12-cup pot brewer and a single-serve machine, all in one countertop footprint. This means you can make a large carafe for the family or a quick, individual cup for yourself without needing two separate appliances.
Brewing a single serving is straightforward.
The machine comes with a dedicated mesh scoop. You simply add your preferred ground coffee to the scoop, place it in the designated holder, and start the brew. It can make up to 14 ounces directly into your favorite mug or travel tumbler. It’s important to note this system is for ground coffee only; it does not work with pre-packaged plastic pods.
This approach is highlighted as a cost-saving and eco-friendly choice, as it eliminates the ongoing expense and waste associated with buying disposable pods. You’re just using the coffee you already have.
On the other side, the classic glass carafe handles larger batches, up to 12 cups. Each side—the single-serve and the carafe—has its own, separate water reservoir with a clear window.
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 for simplicity and a good, fast cup of coffee. It’s ideal if you want a no-fuss morning routine or need a reliable brewer for a home office or small space. Its sleek black design looks good on any counter and won’t take up much room, making it a practical choice for everyday use. One of it’s key features is the Strong Brew option. This setting is for those days when you need an extra kick.
It works by slowing down the brewing cycle slightly, allowing more time for the water to interact with the coffee grounds. The result is a more intense and bolder flavor from your favorite K-Cup pod, without any bitterness. You can choose from three cup sizes—8, 10, or 12 ounces—with just a push of a button. This flexibility lets you decide how much you want, whether it’s a smaller strong shot or a larger mug to sip on. The 42-ounce removable water reservoir is a convenient feature.
It holds enough water to brew up to four cups before you need a refill, which is perfect for serving a couple of guests or getting through your first few hours without a trip to the sink. Filling and cleaning it is easy since it comes right off. The brewer is also travel mug friendly. The drip tray is removable, so you can fit your favorite insulated mug underneath, up to 7.4 inches tall. This means you can brew directly into your to-go cup and head out the door with no spills.
Single Cup Drip Coffee Maker Buying Guide
For one perfect mug without a whole pot, a single cup drip coffee maker is your go-to. It’s simple: you add grounds, pour in water, and get a fresh brew fast. No waste, no fuss. But not all are the same, so a few key points can help you pick the right one.
Brew Size and Carafe Compatibility
Check the machine’s max brew size. Some only make a true 12-ounce mug, while others can handle a 14 or 16-ounce travel tumbler. Also, see if it brews directly into your own cup or needs a specific carafe. If you like using tall mugs, make sure there’s enough clearance underneath the filter.
Filter Type and Cleanup
This is a big one for daily ease. Most use a standard #2 paper filter, which is cheap and easy to find. Some models include a permanent mesh filter, saving you from buying papers. Just know that a reusable filter might let a bit more sediment through and needs a quick rinse after each use. Paper filters means you just toss the whole thing, grounds and all.
Water Reservoir Design
How you add water matters. Look for a reservoir with a clear, easy-pour window so you can measure accurately. A machine with a marked water tank lets you just fill once. Others require you to pour each cup’s worth manually into a top chamber—it’s simpler but means you gotta stand there. Choose based on your morning routine’s pace.
Footprint and Storage
Counter space is precious. These are generally compact, but measure the base and height, especially if you have low cabinets. Some have a very slim profile or a cord storage wrap. If you plan to tuck it away after use, check that its parts are easy to detach and that it’s lightweight enough to move.
Special Features and Extras
Consider what else might be useful. A pause-and-serve function lets you sneak a pour before it’s totally finished brewing. A built-in mesh filter is a nice bonus that saves on costs. A removable drip tray makes cleaning spills a breeze. Keep it simple, and only pay for features you’ll actually use reguarly.
Frequently Asked Questions About Single Cup Drip Coffee Maker
What is a single cup drip coffee maker?
It’s a small machine that brews one cup of coffee at a time. You put ground coffee in a filter, add water to a reservoir, and it drips hot water through teh grounds directly into your mug. It’s perfect for avoiding waste when you’re the only one drinking coffee.
How is it different from a pod machine?
It uses your own ground coffee instead of pre-packaged pods. This gives you more choice in coffee type and roast, and it often creates less waste and cost per cup. You do have to handle the grounds yourself, though.
Is the coffee as good as from a big pot?
Yes, it can be! The brew method is essentially the same. The key is using fresh, good-quality coffee grounds and the right grind size—usually a medium grind works best for these machines.
How fast does it brew?
Most models are very quick. They can typically brew a standard 8-12 ounce cup in about 3 to 5 minutes. It’s faster than a full pot because it heats a smaller amount of water.
Can I use it for tea or hot water?
Many models have a hot water function. This lets you dispense hot water without running it through coffee grounds. It’s great for making tea, instant soups, or oatmeal. Just check the product description to see if this feature is included.
Are thay easy to clean?
Generally, yes. The carafe is often just your mug. You mainly need to discard the used filter and grounds, and rinse the brew basket. A monthly clean with vinegar and water helps remove mineral buildup from the water tank.
What should I look for when buying one?
Consider the cup size it makes, the footprint on your counter, and any extra features. A pause-and-serve function lets you grab your mug mid-brew. An auto-shoff is also nice for safety and energy saving. Think about what fits your morning routine best.
Do they come with a permanent filter?
Some models do include a reusable mesh filter. This eliminates the need to buy paper filters, which is economical and eco-friendly. You just need to rinse it out after each use. If it doesn’t come with one, you can often buy one separately that fits.
Before You Decide
So, think about your own morning routine. Do you just need one good cup, fast? Or do you sometimes want a second? That’s the main thing to figure out. Check how easy the machine is to clean, too. A simple design can save you time and hassle every single day. It’s worth measuring the space on your counter as well, to make sure your new brewer will fit nicely.
In the end, the right single cup drip coffee maker for you is the one that matches how you actually live. It should make your morning simpler, not add another chore. Take a quick look at your favorite coffee brand to see what grind they recommend, as that can help narrow your choice. Once you find a model that fits, you can look forward to a reliably good cup that’s just for you.