Which Single Coffee Maker is Right For You?
If you're the only person in your home who would like a hot cup of coffee you can cut down on costs and hassle by buying a single-serve brewer. But which model is right for you?
They are simple to use, but they require a continuous supply of pods, K Cups, or capsules that cost per cup. So make sure you have a reliable source before making the purchase.
What is a single-serve coffee maker?
A single coffee maker is a tiny appliance that can make one cup of fresh, flavorful tea or coffee at any time. They're typically fast, easy to operate, and offer a range of choices. While they can cost more upfront than a standard coffee maker, many customers discover that the savings they make on tea and coffee at the coffee shop quickly pays for the initial investment.
The majority of
single pod coffee maker-serve coffee machines employ pre-packaged "K-Cups" also known as pods of coffee, or tea bags. These can be soft or hard pods (adhesive free) composed of filter paper or plastic capsules with whole or ground beans. Some models have drawers for storing loose tea, while others have an extra drawer to hold hot water so that you can make iced coffees or hot chocolates. Some even have the ability to brew espresso, for those who like caffeinated drinks on occasion.
For people who prefer a traditional cup of coffee, many models are available to make drip-style coffee, like a French press or moka pot. Some models can brew lattes, cappuccinos or espresso-style coffee with an additional add-on. In addition, some of the most sophisticated makers can even pour hot water to fill a travel mug for on-the-go tea or coffee.
In our extensive testing of the best single coffee makers we looked for characteristics that differentiate them from one another like how fast they make and brew coffee, whether the coffee was hot or lukewarm, how they functioned with various sizes of tumblers and cups and their ease of cleaning and maintenance. We also tried a variety of cocoas, coffees, and teas to determine which ones were the most effective to brew and the sizes of cups that the machine could accommodate.
Contrary to other appliances, that are typically used for a few years before replacing them, most coffee and tea makers last only approximately five years. It is important to consider the length of time you intend to keep it and compare that to the cost of buying and replenishing supplies. It's a good idea to estimate your annual consumption of coffee or tea to help you choose the right model for your budget and needs.
How do I choose a single coffee machine?
If you're looking to enjoy just one cup of coffee at the push of an button, a single-serve maker is the best option. The Good Housekeeping Institute Kitchen Appliances and Innovation Lab evaluated a variety of these devices and found that they're more capable than ever in making delicious coffee. When selecting a model it's important to consider several aspects.
The first step is to choose which kind of brew you want to make. A lot of single-serve machines can only brew a cup of coffee at a time, but some machines can also make tea, espresso, or hot chocolate. Some machines can brew lattes or cappuccinos if you use the right pods or capsules.
Another aspect to consider is the amount you're willing to spend. A single-serve machine may cost more upfront than a standard brewer but it will save you money in the end by eliminating expensive coffee shop purchases. Be sure to be aware of the cost of the teas and coffees you want to brew to calculate the total cost over time.
In the end, you'll need decide whether you're content with the amount of waste that these devices generate. The good news is that most models are now reusable, recyclable, or compostable options for their pods and K-Cups, so you can help cut down on the amount of plastic in your home.
In the end, you should select a single-serve model that is a good fit for your preferences and lifestyle. If you're looking to keep your machine clean and tidy then select a model that is easy to clean. If you want to have more control over the coffee you drink, consider a machine that lets you grind your own coffee beans.
Jamie Kim is the Senior Product Tester at the Good Housekeeping Institute. She's been with the company since the year 2018 and has tried various products, including a variety of coffee and espresso makers. She has a strong passion for food and drink, and especially enjoys trying new coffee and tea varieties. She's a self-professed "coffee fanatic" who believes that the perfect cup of coffee starts with the correct brewing technique.
What is the best single-serve coffee maker?
There are a few things to be aware of when you are evaluating the best single coffee maker for your needs. Consider first the type of coffee you like to drink and any extra features that you may want (like the capability to brew hot tea or chocolate). Think about the cost and availability of the teas or coffees you enjoy. Take into consideration how many cups coffee you intend to brew in a single batch. This will help you determine the size of the machine you'll need.
The Bodum model is a great choice for those who want a simple, single coffee maker. It's also easy on your budget. This simple French press can brew an 8or 14-ounce cup within a matter of minutes, and keep your cup hot for up to four hours, making it perfect for those who prefer to space between their breaks throughout the day. It also doesn't need paper filters or K-Cups and can be used with any kind of ground coffee.
Bruvi is another option, which offers the convenience of the convenience of K-Cup without the plastic waste. The pod-free brewing device is made from bio-based components and is 100% recyclable. It is a great choice for environmentally conscious customers. In our tests, the Bruvi produced eight-ounce cups in just two minutes. It also had an intuitive touchscreen interface that let us easily change preferences.
Pod coffee makers are more competent than ever in delivering a silky-smooth cup of coffee, and their speedy brewing speeds make them a great alternative to tinkering with a French press or waiting for traditional drip machines to get you started in the morning. In actual fact, the team in the Good Housekeeping Institute Kitchen Appliances and Innovation Lab has examined a variety of pod-based machines and concluded that the Keurig K-Elite and Nespresso VertuoPlus are amongst the best.
Our staff evaluates the top single-serve brewing equipment by brewing at least 10 cups of coffee in each. They also check how they are able to fill the reservoir with water, as well as how versatile they are. We found that the most effective single-serve brewing units were those that had the most customizable options, while remaining user-friendly.
Which
single coffee machine is right for me
There are a variety of methods to make coffee at home, each with its own pros and cons. Single-serve coffee makers are the best choice for those looking for convenience without sacrificing taste. Like the name implies, these machines can make only one cup at a time, and consume less counter space than their larger counterparts. They also have a faster brewing time which means that you could be sipping your morning java within 30 seconds.
However, as we all know, not all machines are made to be the same. Before purchasing a machine it is essential to consider the kind of coffee you enjoy and how often you will use your machine. If you love the taste of a silky-smooth latte and prefer a pod-based machine with brands like Keurig and Nespresso is the best option for you. If you're looking for more control over your morning cup of coffee you should consider a coffee grinder and French press could be the better choice.