Mornings are busy, afternoons can drag, and sometimes you just need a quick caffeine hit without fuss. Single-serve coffee makers keep things fast, simple, and delicious. I tested the most popular brewers of 2025 for speed, taste, and convenience. Here are the 6 best single-serve coffee makers you can buy on Amazon U.S.
Keurig K-Elite Single-Serve Coffee Maker
- Brew sizes: 4–12 oz
- Features: Strong brew + iced coffee option
- Reservoir: 75 oz removable
Why I like it: Reliable and versatile. The strong brew option makes a bolder cup, and the iced coffee mode is a nice touch.
Keurig K-Mini Plus
- Brew sizes: 6–12 oz
- Design: Slim 5-inch wide body
- Portability: Fits travel mugs up to 7” tall
Why I like it: Perfect for small spaces and dorms. Compact but still delivers the Keurig convenience.
Hamilton Beach FlexBrew Single-Serve Coffee Maker
- Compatibility: K-Cups or ground coffee
- Brew sizes: Up to 14 oz
- Design: Compact, affordable
Why I like it: Dual compatibility means freedom—use pods for speed or grounds for flavor. A budget-friendly workhorse.
Nespresso VertuoPlus Coffee and Espresso Maker
- Brews: Coffee and espresso with one-touch
- Capsules: Nespresso Vertuo system
- Reservoir: 40 oz
Why I like it: Café-quality espresso at home. Creamy crema and bold taste, all with the push of a button.
Chulux Single-Serve Coffee Maker
- Brew sizes: 12 oz max
- Compatibility: 1.0 & 2.0 K-Cups
- Design: Lightweight + travel-friendly
Why I like it: Cheap, cheerful, and portable. Great if you want a backup brewer or travel option.
Chefman InstaCoffee Single-Serve Brewer
- Brew sizes: 14 oz max
- Features: Works with K-Cups or grounds
- Speed: Brews in 30 seconds
Why I like it: Lightning fast. A great pick for mornings when you’re out the door in minutes.
Buying Guide – How to Choose the Right Single-Serve Coffee Maker
- Pod vs grounds: K-Cup machines are fastest; dual models let you use both.
- Brew sizes: Choose based on your favorite mug size. Most range from 6–14 oz.
- Footprint: Compact models like the K-Mini are best for tight kitchens.
- Extras: Look for strong brew, iced coffee modes, or espresso capability if you want versatility.
Quick Comparison
| Coffee Maker | Best For |
|---|---|
| Keurig K-Elite | Best overall single-serve |
| Keurig K-Mini Plus | Best compact option |
| Hamilton Beach FlexBrew | Best budget dual-use |
| Nespresso VertuoPlus | Best for espresso lovers |
| Chulux Single-Serve | Best travel-friendly |
| Chefman InstaCoffee | Best for speed |
FAQs
Do single-serve machines waste more plastic?
They can, but many pods are now recyclable. Dual models also let you use ground coffee with reusable filters.
Can I brew tea or cocoa in these machines?
Yes—many pods include tea and hot chocolate, and some machines even have hot water dispensers for versatility.
Are single-serve brewers good for families?
They’re best for individuals or households with different coffee preferences. For families, larger drip brewers may be more efficient.
The Bottom Line
If you want versatility, the Keurig K-Elite is the best choice. For small spaces, the K-Mini Plus works wonders. Espresso fans will love the Nespresso VertuoPlus, while speed demons should grab the Chefman InstaCoffee.