Comparison: Best Single Coffee Brewing System (Updated | Oct 22nd)
Choosing the right single-cup coffee brewing system can be overwhelming. From pod machines to pour-over setups, each offers unique advantages and disadvantages. This comparison aims to simplify your decision by exploring different brewing methods and the top-rated systems within each category. We’ll consider factors like ease of use, coffee quality, versatility, and cleaning requirements to help you find the perfect fit for your individual needs and preferences. Whether you’re a busy professional or a coffee connoisseur, our guide will provide valuable insights to brew the perfect single cup, every time.
Editor’s Choice
Best for a specific purpose
-
Best for grind and brew:
Cuisinart Single-Serve Coffee Maker + Coffee Grinder with 8 oz. -
Best for versatile brew sizes:
Ninja Drip Coffee Maker With K Cup Combo -
Best for fast brewing:
Ninja | Coffee Maker | DualBrew Single Serve System | 4 Brew Styles | Keep Warm Feature & Buit- In Frother | 14 Cup Glass Carafe & Removable 70oz Water Reservoir | Black | CFP451A -
Best for espresso and coffee:
Ninja Espresso & Coffee Maker & Barista System -
Best for sca certified:
OXO Brew 8-Cup Coffee Maker with Podless Single-Serve Function and Glass Carafe – SCA Certified -
Best for fast brewing:
Ninja | Drip Coffee Maker | DualBrew Pro Hot & Iced Coffee Machine | Use with K-Cup Coffee Pods | 3 Brew Styles (Classic -
Best for temperature control:
Keurig K-Elite Single Serve K-Cup Pod Coffee Maker -
Best for best value:
Keurig K-Express Single Serve K-Cup Pod Coffee Maker -
Best for most versatile:
Ninja | Coffee Maker | Single Serve |Brew with Coffee Pods & Grounds| Compatible with K-Cup Coffee Pods | 4 Brew Styles -
Best for specialty brews:
Ninja Specialty Fold-Away Frother (CM401) Coffee Maker
Product Comparison: Best Single Coffee Brewing System
Grind and Brew
Cuisinart Single-Serve Coffee Maker + Coffee Grinder with 8 oz., 10 oz., and 12 oz. Serving Size, Compatible with Single-Cup Pods, 48-Ounce Removable Reservoir, Stainless Steel, DGB-2
Cuisinart
- SINGLE-SERVE: The Cuisinart Single-Serve Coffee Maker features fully automatic brewing and offers three serving sizes—8 oz., 10 oz., or 12 oz.—compatible with any brand of single-cup pod, including Keurig K-Cup pods.
- SUPERIOR FUNCTIONALITY: Single-serve coffeemaker with 48 oz. removable water reservoir, charcoal water filter, and removable drip tray to accommodate travel mugs.
- GRIND YOUR BEANS: The coffee maker has a conical burr grinder that automatically grinds whole beans directly into the HomeBarista Reusable Filter Cup, preserving freshness and flavor with its sealed bean hopper.
- SIMPLIFY YOUR MORNING: This coffee machine allows you to fill your tank with ease featuring our easy-view water window and brew a single serving with freshly ground beans or use your favorite coffee pods.
- LIMITED 3-YEAR WARRANTY: The BPA-free Cuisinart single-serve coffee maker + coffee grinder comes with a limited 3-year warranty.
Versatile Brew Sizes
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
Ninja
- 13-SIZE DUAL COFFEE MAKER: Grounds and pods system with 5 grounds brew sizes (Sm, XL Cup, Travel, XL Travel Mug), 4 carafe sizes (¼, ½, ¾, Full Carafe), and 4 traditional pod brew sizes (6-12oz).
- FASTER BREWING: Brew a coffee pod faster than a leading Keurig coffee maker upon startup. Compatible with K-Cups, it's perfect for a busy lifestyle while delivering optimal flavor.
- 4 BREW STYLE CHOICES + TEA: Deliver optimal flavor for hot coffee, ice coffee, or tea. Select Classic, Rich, Over Ice, or Specialty for your favorite grounds or coffee pods, or water for tea.
- INDEPENDENT HOT WATER SYSTEM: Separate from the coffee dispenser to eliminate cross-contamination. 2 temperature settings—hot and boil—allow you to make instant soups, oatmeal, or hot cocoa.
- SPECIALTY BREW: Brew a super-rich coffee concentrate that you can use to create delicious lattes, macchiatos, cappuccinos, and other coffeehouse-style drinks.
- BUILT-IN, FOLD-AWAY FROTHER: Turn hot or cold milk or milk alternative into silky-smooth froth with the included, fold-away frother. Removable for easy cleaning.
- 60-OZ MULTI-POSITION WATER RESERVOIR: Allows you to position the reservoir on the side or rear of the machine to fit your space, plus it is removable for easy refilling.
- WHAT'S INCLUDED: Components include Ninja smart scoop, Fold-away frother, Ninja DualBrew Pro Specialty Coffee Maker, 1 Hole K-Cup pod adapter, 12-cup glass carafe.
Fast Brewing
Ninja | Coffee Maker | DualBrew Single Serve System | 4 Brew Styles | Keep Warm Feature & Buit- In Frother | 14 Cup Glass Carafe & Removable 70oz Water Reservoir | Black | CFP451A
Ninja
- FASTER BREWING: Brew coffee pods faster than the leading K-Cup coffee maker upon startup.
- DUAL COFFEE MAKER: Grounds and pods coffee system with 9 grounds brew sizes (Small Cup, Cup, XL Cup, Travel Mug, XL Travel Mug, ¼ Carafe, ½ Carafe, ¾ Carafe, or Full Carafe) in addition to 4 traditional pod brew sizes (6, 8, 10, or 12 oz.).
- 4 BREW STYLES: Select Classic, Rich, Specialty, or Over Ice for your grounds or coffee pods.
- MAKE ICED COFFEE: Brew fresh over ice for flavorful iced coffee that's never watered down.
- KEEP WARM FUNCTION: Adjustable warming plate keeps coffee warm for up to 4 hours.
- REMOVABLE WATER RESERVOIR: Conveniently carry the 70-oz. removable water reservoir to your sink for easy filling.
- FOLDABLE SINGLE-SERVE PLATFORM: Elevates your coffee mug to reduce splashing of freshly brewed coffee.
- THERMAL FLAVOR EXTRACTION DUO: Delivers perfect flavor for grounds and pods with even saturation and precise temperature control for ultra-flavorful coffee.
Espresso and Coffee
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
Ninja
- BARISTA PLUS TECHNOLOGY: The 19-bar pressure system delivers ultra-flavorful espresso with a silky-smooth crema by brewing at the optimal temperature and pressure.
- COFFEEHOUSE DRINKS AT HOME: The built-in, fold-away frother allows you to create espresso-based cappuccinos, lattes, flat whites, and more.
- BREW SINGLE-SERVE ESPRESSO: Choose your favorite espresso capsule and brew up to 3 styles: Espresso (1.35 oz), Lungo (3.75 oz), and Over Ice (1 oz).
- BREW THROUGH COFFEE GROUNDS: Make a Classic, Rich, or Over Ice brew. Select 9 different sizes ranging from cup, to travel mug, to a full 12-cup carafe.
- VERSATILITY TO ENTERTAIN: Treat your guests to an espresso-based coffeehouse drink or brew a 12-cup carafe for the crowd.
- ADJUSTABLE CUP TRAY: Whether you’re making a single-espresso shot or brewing into a 8-in travel mug, the adjustable cup tray can be matched to your needs.
- USED CAPSULE STORAGE BIN: The used capsule storage bin holds up to 20 capsules for easy recycling.
- CONVENIENT FEATURES: Delay Brew, Keep Warm, and Clean functions allow for convenient brewing.
SCA Certified
OXO Brew 8-Cup Coffee Maker with Podless Single-Serve Function and Glass Carafe – SCA Certified
OXO
- Preheats Water to SCA-Preferred Temperature: Water hits the grounds at194 F to 205 F for a fast, flavorful brew. BetterBrew precision technology controls water temperature and brew cycles; meeting the Specialty Coffee Association's Golden Cup standard.
- Keep Your Coffee Hot: The smart-timed warming plate will come on for two hours when brewing a half carafe, and four hours when brewing a full carafe.
- Single-Serve Capability – No Pods Needed: The single-serve accessory was designed for brewing 2–4 cups into the carafe or directly into a mug.
- Optimal Flavor Extraction with the Rainmaker Showerhead: Water is evenly distributed over your grounds to properly bloom coffee and give you optimal flavor extraction.
- Box Includes: 8-cup coffee maker, glass carafe with lid, brew basket, single-serve accessory, coffee scoop, drip tray/mug riser, 5 basket style small coffee filters and 5 large filters.
- Convenient Cleaning Mode: Avoid scale buildup. The clean button light will turn on after every 90 cycles as a helpful reminder to descale. The Rainmaker showerhead, brew basket, single serve accessory, coffee scoop and mug riser are all top-rack dishwasher safe. Hand wash the glass carafe and lid.
- Two-Year Warranty: Your OXO Brew appliance is guaranteed by OXO for two years from the date of purchase in the case of manufacturing defects in materials or workmanship. This OXO warranty is only offered on OXO Brew appliances sold new and utilized in the U.S. and Canada.
Fast Brewing
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
Ninja
- FASTER BREWING: Single serve coffee maker brews a coffee pod faster vs. Keurig K-Elite upon startup. Compatible with K-Cups, it's perfect for a busy lifestyle while delivering optimal flavor.
- DUAL SYSTEM: Grounds and pods system with 9 grounds brew sizes (Sm Cup, Cup, XL Cup, Travel Mug, XL Travel Mug, ¼ Carafe, ½ Carafe, ¾ Carafe, Full Carafe) and 4 pod brew sizes (6, 8, 10, 12 oz.).
- 3 BREW STYLE CHOICES: Select Classic, Rich, or Over Ice for your favorite grounds or coffee pods. The iced and hot coffee maker delivers optimal flavor that never tastes watered down.
- ICED COFFEE: Brew your favorite grounds or pods fresh over ice for flavorful iced coffee that's never watered down. Plus, customize your ice coffee sizing with 9 grounds sizes and 4 pod sizes.
- KEEP WARM FUNCTION: Adjustable warming plate keeps coffee warm for up to 4 hours. Upgrade traditional coffee pot and coffee makers with custom carafe sizing plus Delay Brew and Keep Warm Functions.
- 60-OZ. REMOVABLE RESERVOIR: Designed for easy grip, conveniently carry the 60-oz. removable water reservoir to your sink for easy filling and measuring.
- FOLDABLE SINGLE SERVE PLATFORM: For single cup coffee brewing, use the fold-away tray to elevate your coffee mug, reduce splashing of freshly brewed coffee, and minimize the mess.
- WHAT'S INCLUDED: Components include 12-Cup Glass Carafe, Ninja Smart Scoop, Ninja Pod Adapter, Paper Filter Kit, Ninja DualBrew Hot & Iced Coffee Maker
Temperature Control
Keurig K-Elite Single Serve K-Cup Pod Coffee Maker, with Strength and Temperature Control, Iced Coffee Capability, 8 to 12oz Brew Size, Programmable, Brushed Slate
Keurig
- WHAT'S IN THE BOX: One water filter handle, and one filter to help ensure your beverages taste their absolute best.Filter type:Reusable.Temperature: Adjust the brew temperature between 187° and 192°..Temperature Control : Allows you to adjust the temperature from 187° – 192
- BREWS MULTIPLE CUP SIZES: 4, 6, 8, 10, 12oz Enjoy the most popular cup sizes.
- STRONG BREW BUTTON: Increases the strength and bold taste of your coffee’s flavor.
- ICED SETTING: Brew hot over ice at the touch of a button for full-flavored, delicious iced coffee.
- HOT WATER ON DEMAND BUTTON: Perfect for instant soups or oatmeal.
- FAST & FRESH BREWED: Coffee made in minutes.
- LARGE 75oz WATER RESERVOIR: Allows you to brew 8 cups before having to refill, saving you time and simplifying your morning routine. Removable reservoir makes refilling easy.
- REMOVABLE DRIP TRAY: Accommodates travel mugs up to 7.2 inches tall and holds a full accidental brew for easy cleanup.
Best Value
Keurig K-Express Single Serve K-Cup Pod Coffee Maker, 3 Brew Sizes, Strong Button Feature, 42oz Removable Reservoir, Black
Keurig
- STRONG BREW: Increases the strength and bold taste of your coffee’s flavor.
- 3 CUP SIZES: Brew an 8, 10, or 12 oz. cup at the push of a button.
- MULTIPLE CUP WATER RESERVOIR: 42oz. removable reservoir lets you brew up to 4 cups before refilling. 8 oz. cup size
- FAST & FRESH BREWED: Delicious coffee made in minutes.
- TRAVEL MUG FRIENDLY: Removable drip tray accommodates travel mugs up to 7.4” tall.
- ENERGY EFFICIENT: Auto off feature turns off your coffee maker 5 minutes after the last brew, helping to save energy.
- COMPATIBLE WITH THE MY K-CUP UNIVERSAL REUSABLE COFFEE FILTER: Brew your own ground coffee (sold separately).
Most Versatile
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
Ninja
- BREW WITH PODS OR GROUNDS: Brew a single-serve cup of coffee with grounds for ultimate flavor or with a coffee pod for ultimate convenience in one small footprint.
- 4 BREW STYLES: Select Classic, Rich, Over Ice, or Specialty for your grounds or coffee pods.
- ULTIMATE BREW VERSATILITY: Brew a 6, 8, 10, or 12-oz. pod brew or choose from a 6, 8, 10, 12, 14, 18, or 24-oz. grounds brew. Brew more drink options vs. a leading single-serve coffee maker.
- COMPACT DESIGN AND STORAGE: Sleek, compact design takes up little countertop space, with a storage drawer for the brew basket or permanent filter when not in use.
- COFFEEHOUSE DRINKS AT HOME: Brew a super-rich coffee concentrate that you can use to create delicious lattes, macchiatos, cappuccinos, and other coffeehouse-style drinks.
- BUILT-IN, FOLD-AWAY FROTHER: Turns hot or cold milk/milk alternative into silky-smooth froth. Removable for easy cleaning.
- REMOVABLE RESERVOIR: Features a removable 56-oz. water reservoir for easy refilling.
- THERMAL FLAVOR EXTRACTION DUO: Delivers perfect flavor for grounds and pods with even saturation and precise temperature control for ultra-flavorful coffee.
Specialty Brews
Ninja Specialty Fold-Away Frother (CM401) Coffee Maker, Single Serve to 10 Cup (50 oz.), Glass Carafe, Black
Ninja
- COLD BREW: Brew tea or coffee at a lower temperature over ice for smooth, naturally sweet flavor in 10 to 15 minutes..BPA Free : Yes. Cord Length : 2.5 ft
- SEPARATE BASKETS: Keep flavors separate with different baskets for brewing coffee and loose or bagged tea.
- SMART BASKET RECOGNITION: System recognizes what's in the basket and automatically displays coffee or tea options.
- 6 BREW SIZES: Brew anything from a single cup to an XL cup, travel size, XL travel size, and half or full carafe with your coffee maker.
- 5 BREW STYLES: Choose your style with Classic, Rich, Over Ice, Cold Brew, or Specialty.
- TEA TYPES: Select your tea type, and the system will know the right temperature and number of steps needed.
- KEEPS IT HOT: The 50 oz. (10-Cup) Thermal Carafe is double-walled to keep your coffee and tea hot for up to 2 hours. No warming plate required.
- FOLD-AWAY FROTHER: Turn hot or cold milk into silky-smooth froth in seconds with the Hot and Cold Frother. Flips into the machine when not in use.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.com at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Buying Guide
FAQs
What is a single-serve coffee brewing system?
A single-serve coffee brewing system makes one cup of coffee at a time, offering convenience and minimizing waste.
Can single-serve coffee makers use both pods and ground coffee?
Yes, some single-serve coffee makers are compatible with both coffee pods (like K-Cups) and ground coffee.
What are the benefits of a single-serve coffee maker with a built-in grinder?
A built-in grinder ensures the freshest possible coffee by grinding beans right before brewing.
Do single-serve coffee makers offer different brew sizes?
Many single-serve coffee makers allow you to select from various brew sizes to customize your cup.
What is a 'strong brew' function on a single-serve coffee maker?
The 'strong brew' function allows you to brew a bolder, more concentrated cup of coffee.
What is a frother and why is it useful in a coffee maker?
A frother creates foamed milk, enabling you to make lattes, cappuccinos, and other specialty coffee drinks at home.
Are there single-serve coffee makers that can also brew iced coffee?
Yes, some models are designed to brew coffee specifically for iced beverages.
