What to Look For in a Single Serving Coffee Maker
A single-serve machine can make an espresso cup in under a minute. It is also less messy and wasteful than the traditional pot of coffee.
Noah Kaufman, the editor of Epi's
reviews single serve coffee makers, is a fan of this machine with a pod design for its sleek and smart features. It's programmeable and can be used to fill a travel mug prior to the morning commute.
Pods
Single-serve coffee pods or soft pods are discs covered with paper that brew a single cup of coffee. They can be used with a variety of different coffee makers, such as those manufactured by Bunn Black & Decker and Philips. Soft pods can be reused and recyclable, in contrast to metal or plastic capsules that are thrown out after use. Some people do not like the idea of throwing away the disposable pods that are single-use, which contribute to global waste production.
A good alternative is a
single serve coffee maker that comes with a built-in grinder, which allows you to grind your own beans or make use of ground coffee instead of pre-packaged pods. Some models also have a water reservoir that is removable that is great if you want to save the cost of your daily cup of coffee. The size of the water reservoir varies between machines and it is therefore important to determine the amount you'll need before purchasing one-serve coffee makers.
The top single-serve machines come with various options that allow you to modify your coffee's strength as well as the temperature and the speed of brewing. For example, some models come with the My Brew setting that allows you to tailor the brewing process for your personal preferences and tastes. These features are ideal for those who love coffee and want to ensure their cup of joe is as perfect as they can get it.
If you like the convenience of single-serve pods, but hate to throw away plastic, then think about a model which uses reusable coffee capsules made from recyclable and biodegradable materials. These pods are more expensive than traditional capsules, but they provide the same convenience and high-quality cups.
Consider purchasing a single-serve machine for those who are professional who is always on the go and wants to make a quick cup of coffee at work. This type of coffee maker can create an intense cup of espresso in less than one minute it's faster than a drip brewer can provide. You'll also be able to make milk-based drinks, such as cappuccinos and lattes.
Beans
The primary drawbacks of single-serve machines are the waste they generate. Many of these machines produce many plastic containers that end in landfills and cause harm to the environment. If you're looking to lessen your environmental footprint, look for models with reusable or compostable pods.
You can also choose one that uses beans to brew coffee. This is a great choice for those who enjoy the flavor of freshly ground coffee. These machines are bigger and cost more than pod-based models. You'll also need to buy a grinder and a reusable or compostable filter for these types of machines.
Another option is to purchase a dual-brew coffee maker, which can create a pot of regular coffee and one cup at a time. This machine is a good option for large families or those who like drinking multiple cups throughout the day. It takes longer to make a cup than other models and requires more beans and water however it will save you money over the long term because you won't need to buy as many pods or coffee bags.
The model comes with a single-serve side that produces up to 14 ounces of coffee and a carafe that can hold up to 12 mugs of standard coffee. It's programmable up to 24 hours in advance, and can fit an extra mug for travel on the single-serve side for those who have to grab a quick cup before going to work or school. It also has a sizeable bean hopper and an easy-to-use touchscreen, which allows you to make your drink exactly as you'd like it.
Filter
The type of filter that is used in a
single serve pod coffee maker-serving coffee maker could affect the taste of your coffee. Some machines employ recycled paper filters for K-Cups or ground coffee, while others use disposable paper filters. Select a machine that accepts your own filters that you can reuse if you want to reduce your consumption and impact on the environment.
You'll also want to think about what size cup you prefer. If you usually drink more than one cup in the morning or will be sharing your single-serve coffee maker with others, you'll require an brewer that is able to accommodate a larger range of serving sizes. The Mueller single-serve coffee maker, for instance, can brew up to six, 10 or 15-ounce cups of coffee. It can also make espresso shots as well as hot cocoa, in addition to drip coffee.
When selecting a single-serve coffee maker, it is important to think about the brew time. Certain models can heat water and brew coffee in less than two minutes, while others might take longer to make a carafe of hot coffee. If you're in a hurry you may locate a model that utilizes disposable K-Cups or coffee pods to be the most convenient.
You'll also need to decide if you'd like coffee maker that has a built-in reservoir or one that requires you to add water. Some models come with a removable tank which can hold up to 40 oz. of water. Others have a reservoir, which is filled each time you make a cup. If you're limited on space, one-serve coffee maker that requires you to add your own water could be the best option for your kitchen. The BLACK+DECKER coffee maker is a great example. It occupies only a tiny space on your counter, and it has a simple button to start the machine. It also shuts off automatically when the brewing process is finished. The process of adding your own water to the machine, however, could require some extra work since you'll need to measure and pour in the water you've poured before beginning your beverage.
Temperature
Temperature is the primary aspect in the brewing of coffee. To get the best flavor out of your beans, your water needs to be at the correct temperature. The higher the temperature of the water the more coffee will dissolve and the stronger the drink.
Most single-serving coffee makers are equipped with a heater which is used to heat water to the perfect temperature for brewing (195-205 degrees Fahrenheit). However, certain machines are better in keeping the water warm than others. The Mueller AdirChef
Single Serve Pod Coffee Maker was one of the best machines that we tested. It was able keep the water warm throughout the brewing process, and was the only one that did not require a cool down flush (which involves running a pot through the pipes).
These coffee makers are unique in the way they heat water. Instead of a pump these coffee makers utilize an electronic check valve that allows water to flow in a
single cup coffee maker direction. This valve is paired with a tubing system that has the heater attached. The heater heats the tubing until it reaches the brewing temperature, at when it opens the check valve and pumps the water through the system and out of the tubing into your cup.
Some machines have digital displays that tell you the time until your coffee is ready. This is helpful if are planning to make several cups at a time or are worried about the water temperature. Some models also include an indicator light to notify you when the brew is finished.
Some machines offer different brew sizes which range from espresso shots to 16-ounce brews which fit in most regular coffee cups. In addition, some offer milk-frothing options for cappuccinos and lattes. Another alternative is a dual coffee maker, which can be used for single-serve and carafe making. Dual coffee makers like the Technivorm Moccamaster Cup One are excellent examples.