Ever found yourself torn between a quick single-serve pod and a full carafe for the family? That daily dilemma is exactly what a two way coffee maker is designed to solve. It’s like having two fantastic machines in one sleek countertop footprint, giving you the ultimate flexibility for whatever your morning throws at you. No more compromising on your caffeine needs, whether you’re flying solo or hosting a brunch.
In this review, we’re going to put a popular model through its paces. We’ll look at how easy it is to switch between modes, the quality of the brew from both sides, and whether it’s truly worth the investment for your kitchen. Let’s see if this versatile appliance can really deliver the best of both worlds without any major headaches or confusing setups.
Product Comparison Table: 10 Best Two Way Coffee Maker
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Ninja 12-Cup Programmable Coffee Brewer, 2 Brew Styles, Adjustable…
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9.9 |
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Ninja | Drip Coffee Maker | DualBrew Pro Hot…
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9.7 |
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Ninja Drip Coffee Maker With K Cup Combo, DualBrew…
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9.4 |
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Hamilton Beach 2-Way Programmable Coffee Maker, 12 Cup Glass…
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9.2 |
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Hamilton Beach 2-Way Programmable Coffee Maker, 12 Cup Glass…
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8.9 |
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Ninja Espresso & Coffee Maker & Barista System, 3…
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8.7 |
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Hamilton Beach 2-Way 12 Cup Programmable Drip Hot and…
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8.4 |
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Cuisinart 12-Cup Coffee Maker, Single-Serve Brewer Glass Carafe, Automatic…
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8.2 |
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Hamilton Beach FlexBrew Advanced 5-in-1 Programmable 12 Cup Drip…
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7.9 |
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AIRMSEN 12-Cup Programmable Dual Coffee Maker – Single Serve…
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7.7 |
Read Review |
Quick Review For Top 10 Two Way Coffee Maker
Ninja 12-Cup Programmable Coffee Brewer, 2 Brew Styles, Adjustable Warm Plate, 60oz Water Reservoir, Delay Brew – Black/Stainless Steel
The Ninja 12-Cup Programmable Coffee Brewer in Black/Stainless Steel is designed to give you a reliably great cup of coffee, your way, every single morning. It moves beyond the basic on/off switch with thoughtful features that adapt to your routine, whether your making a single travel mug or a full pot for guests. It starts with choice. The 2 Brew Styles let you pick Classic for a well-balanced cup or Rich for a more intense, full-bodied flavor.
Both options utilize Ninja’s Hotter Brewing Technology, which carefully manages temperature and water saturation for coffee that’s flavorful and smooth, never bitter. No matter which style you choose, the 12-Cup Glass Carafe is the perfect vessel, ready for your daily needs or when you have company over. And if it’s just for you, the dedicated Small Batch Function is a game-changer. It optimizes the brewing process for 1 to 4 cups, so your coffee is never weak or watered down.
Convenience is really where this brewer shines. The 24-hour programmable Delay Brew means you can set it the night before and wake up to the smell of freshly made coffee. The Adjustable Warming Plate then takes over, with settings to keep that coffee tasting fresh and hot for up to 4 hours without burning it. Filling the machine is easier too, thanks to the Removable Water Reservoir. You can simply carry the 60-oz tank to your sink instead of maneuvering the whole machine.
Ninja | Drip Coffee Maker | DualBrew Pro Hot & Iced Coffee Machine | Use with K-Cup Coffee Pods | 3 Brew Styles (Classic, Rich, & Iced) | 60oz Removable Reservoir & Dishwasher Safe | Black | CFP101
The Ninja DualBrew Pro Hot & Iced Coffee Machine (CFP101) in Black is designed to be the last coffee maker you’ll need to buy. It consolidates multiple appliances into one sleek unit, giving you the flexibility to brew exactly what you want, how you want it. Whether your morning calls for a quick single-serve pod or a full carafe for the family, this machine handles it all with impressive speed and consistency. Its core advantage is the true dual system.
You can use your favorite K-Cup pods for ultimate convenience, and Ninja claims it brews them faster than a leading competitor right from startup. When you prefer fresh grounds, you have a huge range of sizes to choose from—from a small cup all the way to a full 12-cup carafe. The included Smart Scoop takes the guesswork out of measuring, ensuring the right coffee-to-water ratio every single time. Flavor customization is a key feature with three distinct brew styles.
The ‘Classic’ setting is your go-to for a well-balanced cup. If you prefer a more intense flavor, the ‘Rich’ setting extracts more from the grounds or pod. For cold drinks, the dedicated ‘Over Ice’ setting is a game-changer; it brews a concentrated coffee directly over your ice so it chills instantly without becoming diluted and watery. This means you get cafe-quality iced coffee at home anytime. Practicality is well thought out.
Ninja Drip Coffee Maker With K Cup Combo, DualBrew Pro Specialty Coffee System, Coffee Machine Compatible with K-Cup Pods, 12 Cup Single Serve Coffee Makers with Paper Filter, CFP301
The Ninja DualBrew Pro Specialty Coffee System (CFP301) is designed for coffee drinkers who want one machine to handle it all. It combines a single-serve pod brewer with a full 12-cup carafe system, giving you serious flexibility for how you make your morning coffee or afternoon tea.
Its core feature is the 13-size dual coffee maker system. You can brew into five different sizes using your own grounds—from a small cup to an extra-large travel mug.
Or, use the included carafe to make anywhere from a quarter pot to a full 12-cup pot for a group. For convenience, it also brews four sizes from traditional K-Cup pods, giving you a total of thirteen brew size options to match exactly what you need.
Speed is a big plus here. This machine brews a pod faster than a leading Keurig competitor right from startup, which is great when you’re in a hurry. But it doesn’t sacrifice on taste.
You have four brew style choices: Classic, Rich, Over Ice, and a Specialty setting. These let you optimize flavor whether your using grounds or pods, and whether you want hot coffee or iced coffee. There’s even a dedicated setting for brewing tea.
A standout feature is the independent hot water system. It has its own spout, completely separate from the coffee dispenser. This eliminates any cross-contamination between coffee oils and your tea or hot chocolate.
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 a full pot at the same time. Its core idea is flexibility, letting you choose between a single fresh cup or a full 12-cup carafe without needing two separate machines taking up counter space. This model features two completly independent brewers in one unit. On one side, you have a single-serve coffee maker that brews directly into your cup or travel mug, up to 14 ounces.
It comes with a reusable mesh scoop—you just add your own ground coffee, place the scoop in the holder, and start brewing. It’s important to note this system is not compatible with K-Cup pods. The other side is a traditional drip coffee maker with a glass carafe that can brew up to 12 cups. Each side has its own dedicated water reservoir with a clear window, making it simple to see and fill the correct amount of water for your chosen brew method.
You gain several practical benefits from this two-in-one design. For single servings, you avoid the waste and ongoing cost of plastic pods, using your own ground coffee instead. The programmable timer works for the carafe side, so you can set it up to 24 hours in advance to have a full pot ready when you wake up. For both brew options, you can select a regular or bold brew strength.
Hamilton Beach 2-Way Programmable Coffee Maker, 12 Cup Glass Carafe And Single Serve Coffee Maker, White with Stainless Steel Accents, 49933
The Hamilton Beach 2-Way Programmable Coffee Maker, 49933, is designed for households where not everyone’s coffee routine is the same. It solves the common dilemma of wanting a quick single cup without wasting a full pot, all in one compact appliance on your counter. Its white and stainless steel design fits neatly into most kitchen decors, offering a clean and modern look. This machine’s core feature is its two independent brewers.
On one side, you can brew a full 12-cup pot into the included glass carafe, perfect for mornings with family or when you need to fuel a group. On the other side, a dedicated single-serve brewer makes up to 14 ounces directly into your favorite mug or travel tumbler. Each side has its own, separate water reservoir with a clear window, so you can easily see and fill the exact amount of water you need for either option.
This means you can even brew a single cup and a full pot at the exact same time, which is a huge time saver during busy mornings. The single-serve side is refreshingly simple. It comes with a reusable mesh scoop—you just fill it with your own ground coffee, place it in the brewer, and start. This system is a cost-effective and eco-friendly choice. You’re not locked into buying specific plastic pods, which reduces ongoing cost and a lot of plastic waste.
Ninja Espresso & Coffee Maker & Barista System, 3 Espresso Brew Styles, Single-Serve Coffee & Nespresso Capsule Compatible, Built-in Frother, Espresso, Cappuccino & Latte Maker, Black, CFN601
The Ninja Espresso & Coffee Maker & Barista System CFN601 is a versatile countertop appliance designed to consolidate your coffee and espresso needs into one machine. It’s built for those who enjoy choice, weather your morning ritual is a single shot of espresso or a full pot of drip coffee. At its core, the Barista Plus Technology utilizes a 19-bar pressure pump.
This system is engineered to brew espresso at an optimal temperature and pressure, aiming to extract a flavorful shot with a layer of silky-smooth crema. For espresso, the machine is compatible with both standard single-serve espresso pods and Nespresso capsules. You have three espresso style options: a classic 1.35-ounce Espresso, a longer 3.75-ounce Lungo, or a concentrated 1-ounce Over Ice shot meant to be poured directly over cold milk or ice.
Beyond capsules, you can also brew directly through your own coffee grounds. This function offers Classic, Rich, and Over Ice brew styles across nine different sizes. You can make a single cup, fill a travel mug, or brew a full 12-cup carafe to share. The included glass carafe sits on a warming plate to keep your coffee ready. Convenient features like Delay Brew and a Keep Warm function add to your daily routine. Creating milk-based drinks is integrated thanks to the built-in, fold-away frother.
Hamilton Beach 2-Way 12 Cup Programmable Drip Hot and Iced Coffee Maker & Single Serve Coffee Machine, Glass Carafe, Auto Pause and Pour, Black (47500J)
The Hamilton Beach 2-Way 12 Cup Programmable Drip Hot and Iced Coffee Maker & Single Serve Coffee Machine, Black (47500J) is designed for households where everyone has a different coffee routine. It combines two appliances in one compact unit, saving valuable counter space. On one side, you have a full 12-cup programmable drip coffee maker with a glass carafe. On the other, a single-serve brewer for those quick morning cups.
This setup means no more compromise between brewing a pot for the family or just a cup for yourself. Brewing is flexible to match your taste. The drip side features a unique AquaFlow showerhead that saturates coffee grounds evenly for a rich, full-flavored pot. You can choose from regular or bold brew strength, and there’s even a dedicated setting for making iced coffee that brews at a stronger concentration so it doesn’t get watered down by the ice.
The single-serve side uses your own ground coffee with a simple mesh scoop—just scoop, place, and brew. It’s important to note that neither side is compatible with K-Cup pods; this machine is for use with loose ground coffee only. Convenience is a major focus. The intuitive touchscreen display lets you program both sides up to 24 hours in advance, so your coffee is ready when you are. If you’re brewing a full pot, the Auto Pause and Pour feature lets you sneak a cup early without making a mess.
Cuisinart 12-Cup Coffee Maker, Single-Serve Brewer Glass Carafe, Automatic Hot & Iced Coffee Machine, Brew Strength Control and Brew Pause, SS-16, Stainless Steel
The Cuisinart SS-16 Coffee Maker is designed to handle your coffee routine, whether you need a quick single cup or a full pot for the household. It combines the convenience of a single-serve brewer with the capacity of a traditional 12-cup coffee maker, giving you flexibility without needing two separate machines on your counter. For your morning solo cup, this machine is ready. It works with any brand of single-cup pod, including popular Keurig K-Cup pods, so you have endless choices.
It also includes a reusable HomeBarista filter cup, perfect for using your own favorite ground coffee. You can choose from five different serving sizes—4, 6, 8, 10, or 12 ounces—to get just the right amount. When you need more, the sleek glass carafe brews up to a full 12 cups. The carafe has a stainless steel handle and a classic look that fits nicely in most kitchens. Just note, a “cup” here is about 5 ounces, which is a standard coffee measure. Functionality is where this model really shines.
It’s built to brew faster than many standard 12-cup makers, saving you some precious time. The 42-ounce removable water reservoir is easy to fill and has a clear window so you can always see the water level. Important features include programmable brew strength control, letting you choose from regular to bold, and even a specific setting for brewing over ice for a perfect iced coffee. You can also adjust the carafe temperature to keep your coffee hot just the way you like it.
Hamilton Beach FlexBrew Advanced 5-in-1 Programmable 12 Cup Drip and Single Serve Hot & Iced Coffee Maker with Movable 60 oz. Water Reservoir, Use Pod Packs and Grounds, Fast Brewing, Black (49924)
The Hamilton Beach FlexBrew Advanced 5-in-1 Programmable Coffee Maker (49924) is designed for households where everyone has a different coffee preference. It combines a full 12-cup drip machine and a single-serve brewer in one surprisingly compact unit, giving you serious flexibility without taking over your counter. At its core, this machine offers five distinct brewing methods. You can brew a single hot cup using a K-Cup pod or your own ground coffee.
You can also brew a single cup of iced coffee directly over ice. And, of course, you can brew a full 12-cup pot of coffee using ground coffee in the traditional carafe. This means whether you want a quick cup on the go or are preparing coffee for a group, you’re covered. The space-saving design is a key feature; it looks like a sleek single-serve brewer at first glance, but the 12-cup glass carafe is cleverly tucked on its side to maintain a slim footprint. Convenience is a major focus.
The large, removable 60 oz. water reservoir means you can brew a whole pot or up to seven single cups without a refill. You can even reposition this reservoir to the back or side of the machine to better fit your kitchen layout. For your morning routine, the programmable touchscreen lets you set Auto Brew the night before, so you wake up to freshly brewed coffee—either a single cup or a full carafe. It brews fast too, with a single hot cup ready in under two minutes.
AIRMSEN 12-Cup Programmable Dual Coffee Maker – Single Serve Machine for K-Cup Pods & Ground, 1000W Fast Brew, Delay Start, 2H Keep Warm, Touchscreen, 60oz Tank, Glass Carafe – Home & Office
The AIRMSEN 12-Cup Programmable Dual Coffee Maker is designed to end the morning compromise between personal preference and convenience. It’s a single appliance that truly functions as two complete coffee stations in one, eliminating the need for seperate machines cluttering your counter. Whether your household needs a full pot to start the day or everyone prefers a different type of coffee, this machine has the flexibility to handle it all. Its core feature is the dual brewing system.
For multi-serve moments, it brews a traditional pot into the included glass carafe, with options for 4 to 12 cups. For single servings, the dedicated side works with both K-Cup pods and your own ground coffee, giving you total choice. This means one person can enjoy a pod-based decaf while another brews a strong pot of their favorite dark roast, simultaneously. It’s a practical solution for offices or families with mixed tastes. Performance is centered on speed and control.
The 1000W dual boiler system is powerful, promising a full 12-cup pot in about 10 minutes and a hot single serve in under 90 seconds. You can program the machine the night before using the 24-hour delay start, so your coffee is ready exactly when you need it. The touchscreen panel makes it simple to select your brew size and adjust strength, and the auto-keep-warm function works for 2 hours on the carafe side, ensuring your coffee stays at the right temperature.
Two Way Coffee Maker Buying Guide
Ever wish your coffee machine could do more than just drip? A two way coffee maker are exactly that—a versatile appliance that typically brews a classic pot and also makes single-serve cups, often using pods. It’s a great fit for households where one person loves a full carafe and another wants a quick, personal cup. The key is finding the right balance for your counter and your routine.
Brewing Flexibility
This is the core of a two way system. Check what options it actually offers. Some combine a traditional drip brewer with a K-Cup pod holder. Others might include a carafe for ground coffee and a seperate spout for pod brewing. Think about what you’ll use most. If everyone in your home drinks the same roast each morning, the full pot function is perfect. But if preferences vary wildly by person or time of day, the single-serve side becomes a lifesaver.
Footprint and Design
Adding a second brewing method means the machine will be larger than a basic model. Measure your available counter space before you get too excited about features. Also, consider the carafe style. Some use a glass pot, while others have a thermal carafe that keeps coffee hot without a warming plate, which can be a nice perk if coffee sits for a while.
Ease of Cleaning
More features can mean more parts to maintain. A machine with a permanent filter for the drip side cuts down on paper waste, but it needs rinsing. The pod holder will need regular cleaning to prevent old coffee grounds from clogging it. Look for models with removable drip trays and accessible water reservoirs—it makes the daily wipe-down much simpler.
Water Reservoir Size
Pay attention to the tank capacity, especially if you plan on using the full-pot function often. A smaller reservoir means you’ll be refilling it frequently, which gets old fast. A larger tank is convenient, but it also increases the machine’s overall size. It’s a trade-off between convenience and the amount of space your willing to dedicate.
Frequently Asked Questions About Two Way Coffee Maker
What is a two way coffee maker?
A two way coffee maker is a single machine that can brew coffee two different ways. Most often, it combines a standard drip coffee maker with a single-serve pod brewer, like for K-Cups. This gives you flexibility for your daily routine.
Who is a two way coffee maker good for?
It’s perfect for households where people have different coffee tastes. One person might want a full pot for teh morning, while another just wants a quick single cup. It can also save counter space compared to having two separate machines.
Does it make good coffee both ways?
Generally, yes. The quality is comparable to dedicated machines. The drip side brews a traditional pot, and the pod side offers consistency and variety. Just be sure to clean both systems regularly for the best flavor.
Are thay difficult to use or clean?
Not at all. They are designed to be as simple as a normal coffee maker. Each brewing method has its own water reservoir and parts, which makes operation straightforward. Cleaning involves descaling and washing the removable pieces, just like you would with any brewer.
What should I look for when buying one?
Consider the carafe size for the drip side and check which pod types the single-serve side uses. Some work with multiple brands. Also, look at the machine’s footprint to ensure it fits on your counter. A programmable timer for the drip side is a handy feature too.
Are two way coffee makers more expensive?
They usually cost more than a basic drip machine, but less than buying two separate premium brewers. Think of it as a space-saving compromise that offers great convenience for the price.
Can I use ground coffee in the single-serve side?
Most models are designed for pods only on that side. However, some brands offer a reusable pod filter. This lets you use your own ground coffee, which can be more economical and reduce waste.
Is the water reservoir shared?
This varies by model. Some have one large shared tank, while others have two separate ones. A shared reservoir is common and works fine, as the machine directs water to the correct path depending on which brew method you choose.
What to Remember
Choosing teh right appliance for your kitchen is about what fits your daily life. Think about how you actually make coffee each morning. Do you need a single cup in a hurry, or a full pot for the family? Your answers will point you to the best choice for your counter.
In the end, a good two way coffee maker is simply about having options. It gives you the flexibility to handle different mornings without needing two separate machines. That way, you can enjoy your coffee just the way you like it, any day of the week.