Which Single Coffee Maker is Right For You?

If you're the only person in your family who needs an iced coffee you can cut down on costs and hassle by buying an brewer that is single-serve. Which model is the best single cup coffee maker for you?

The machines are simple to use but require a steady supply of pods, K-Cups or capsules at a price per cup. Be sure to check your source before purchasing.

What is a single coffee maker?

A single coffee maker single cup maker is a tiny device that can brew one cup of fresh, delicious coffee or tea on demand. They're typically quick, simple to use, and come with a variety of options. Although they might cost more upfront than a standard coffee maker, many customers discover that the savings they make on tea and coffee at the coffee maker single shop quickly pays for the initial investment.

The majority of single-serve coffee machines employ pre-packaged "K-Cups", or pods of coffee or tea bags. These can be hard or soft pods (adhesive free) comprised of filter paper or plastic capsules that contain ground or whole bean. They also may have an open drawer for loose tea and some have an additional drawer for hot water for making hot chocolate or iced tea. Some can even brew espresso for those who like caffeinated drinks on occasion.

For those who prefer a traditional cup of coffee, a variety of models are available to make drip-style coffee, like a French press or moka pot. Some models can make espresso-style coffee, cappuccinos and lattes using an additional add-on or milk frother. Some of the most sophisticated Brewers can disperse hot liquid into a travel mug so that you can drink coffee or tea on the go.

In our extensive tests of the top single coffee makers, we looked for specific features that differentiate them from one another for instance, how quickly they heat and brew depending on 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, as well as what sizes of cups the machine could take.

Unlike other appliances, which you can often use for a few years before replacing, most coffee and tea makers last only about five years. You'll want to think about how long you plan to keep it for and consider the cost of purchasing and replenishing the supplies. It's a good idea estimate your annual consumption of tea or coffee to help you decide on the right product for your needs and budget.

What should I consider when choosing a single coffee maker?