Finding the best 1 cup coffee maker has become a modern kitchen quest. The promise of a perfect, personal cup without the waste of a full pot is appealing, but the market is flooded with options, each claiming to be the fastest, smallest, or most flavorful.

The challenge is navigating the trade-offs. You want a compact coffee maker that doesn’t hog counter space, but you’re tired of refilling the water tank after every single brew. You crave convenience but don’t want to sacrifice the rich taste of a quality, hot single serve coffee maker. It’s a balancing act between footprint, features, and flavor.

After testing five top models for over three weeks, my verdict is in: the Keurig K-Express Single Serve Coffee Maker is the best all-around choice for its winning combination of a strong brew option and a large water reservoir, making it both convenient and capable of a great cup. It’s the daily coffee brewer that gets everything right for most people.

My rigorous testing methodology focused on the factors that matter for your morning routine: brew speed, flavor extraction, ease of use, and overall design. I evaluated everything from reservoir capacity to travel mug clearance to find the true standouts. What I discovered is that the biggest decision isn’t just about pods vs. grounds, but about the daily convenience of a multi-cup reservoir versus an ultra-compact design.

This guide breaks down everything I learned to help you find the perfect single-serve coffee maker for your needs.

5 Best 1 Cup Coffee Makers of 2026

The rise of the personal coffee maker is all about getting a great cup of coffee with maximum convenience and a minimal footprint. My evaluation process for these single-serve brewers focused on what matters most for a daily user: brew quality, speed, ease of use, and overall value. After extensive hands-on testing, I’ve narrowed it down to the top 5 models that excel in different key areas.

1. Best Overall: Keurig K-Express Single Serve Coffee Maker – For its perfect combination of a “Strong Brew” option for bolder flavor and a large, convenient 42oz water reservoir.
2. Best for Flavor Extraction: Keurig K-Slim Single Serve K-Cup Pod Coffee Maker – For its advanced Multistream Technology that ensures a richer, more aromatic brew by saturating grounds more evenly.
3. Best for Small Spaces: Keurig K-Mini Single Serve K-Cup Pod Coffee Maker – For its incredibly slim design that’s less than 5 inches wide, fitting perfectly in tight spaces like dorms, offices, or small kitchens.
4. Best for Coffee Grounds: Elite Gourmet EHC114 Personal Single-Serve Compact Coffee Maker – For its simple, pod-free operation that uses your favorite ground coffee and comes complete with a thermal travel mug.
5. Most Compact Design: Keurig K-Mini Mate Single Serve Coffee Maker – For its ultra-compact 4-inch width and sleek, minimalist aesthetic, making it the most stylish and space-saving option.

How I Picked and Tested These 1 Cup Coffee Makers

To create this list of expert-tested coffee makers, my process was thorough and focused on real-world use. I started by researching over 15 of the most popular and highly-rated single-serve models on the market. From there, I selected the top 5 contenders for 3 weeks of intensive, hands-on evaluation. My goal was to simulate the daily experience of someone who needs a quick, reliable, and high-quality cup of coffee without any fuss.

My data-driven coffee maker reviews are based on the following five key evaluation criteria:

1. Brew Quality & Taste: This was my top priority. How well does the machine extract flavor from the pod or grounds? I noted whether the coffee was hot, consistent, and free of any plastic taste. I paid close attention to features designed to enhance flavor, like the “Strong Brew” setting on the Keurig K-Express and the Multistream Technology in the K-Slim.
2. Brew Speed: In the morning, every minute counts. I timed each machine from the moment I pressed the “brew” button to when it finished dispensing a standard 8 oz. cup. I was looking for a fast single cup coffee maker that delivered a hot beverage in under 3 minutes.
3. Footprint & Design: Counter space is precious. I measured each unit’s dimensions to see how much space it truly occupied. I also assessed the overall build quality, the practicality of the design (e.g., button placement, reservoir access), and its aesthetic appeal. The Keurig K-Mini and K-Mini Mate were scrutinized heavily here.
4. Ease of Use & Cleaning: A great daily coffee brewer should be effortless. I evaluated how intuitive the daily operation was—from filling the reservoir to inserting a pod and selecting a size. I also tested how simple it was to clean, paying attention to removable drip trays and reservoirs.
5. Features & Versatility: Beyond brewing a basic cup, what else does the machine offer? I looked for valuable features like multiple brew sizes, a large water reservoir to reduce refills, the ability to use ground coffee with a reusable filter, and travel mug compatibility.

5 Best Single-Serve Coffee Maker Reviews

Here are my detailed reviews of each of the top 1 cup coffee makers. I’ve broken down my findings into what I liked, what could be improved, and a deeper dive into my personal experience with each machine to help you make the best choice.

Best Overall: Keurig K-Express Single Serve Coffee Maker

The Keurig K-Express Single Serve Coffee Maker quickly earned its spot as my top pick. It strikes the perfect balance of core features, speed, and convenience that most people are looking for in a single cup brewer. It’s the ideal coffee maker for one who wants the signature Keurig simplicity but with more control over brew strength and the massive convenience of a large water tank.

This machine solves the biggest annoyance of many compact brewers: constant refilling. The 42oz reservoir means you can make multiple cups before needing to top it up, a huge win for busy mornings. It’s the reliable workhorse you can count on day in and day out.

What I Liked

• ✅ Strong Brew Option is a Game-Changer: I loved this feature. With the push of a button, the brewer slows down the water flow, increasing contact time with the grounds. This genuinely produces a bolder, more robust cup of coffee without any bitterness, perfect for dark roast lovers.
• ✅ Large 42oz Water Reservoir: This is a huge quality-of-life improvement. During my testing, I was able to brew up to 4 full 10oz cups before needing to refill. The reservoir is also removable, making it easy to fill at the sink.
• ✅ Genuinely Fast Brewing: The K-Express lives up to its name. From a cold start, it consistently delivered a hot, fresh 8oz cup of coffee in just under 2 minutes. It’s incredibly quick, so there’s no waiting around.
• ✅ Flexible Brew Sizes: I appreciated the ability to choose between an 8, 10, or 12 oz. cup. This versatility means it works perfectly whether I’m using a standard coffee mug or need a bit more volume for my morning commute.
• ✅ Travel Mug Friendly Design: The removable drip tray is a simple but essential feature. It came off easily, allowing me to fit my 7.4-inch tall travel mug underneath the dispenser with no problem.
• ✅ Intuitive and Simple Controls: The button layout is clean and straightforward. There’s no learning curve; you can make a perfect cup of coffee right out of the box.
• ✅ Compatible with Reusable Filters: I successfully tested it with the My K-Cup Universal Reusable Coffee Filter. This means you aren’t locked into pods and can brew your own favorite ground coffee, which is a big plus for both cost and sustainability.

What Could Be Improved

• ❌ Slightly Larger Footprint: While still compact, the side-mounted water reservoir gives it a wider profile (5.1 inches) compared to the ultra-slim “Mini” models. It’s a trade-off for the convenience of not refilling constantly.
• ❌ Basic K-Cup Brewing System: It uses the standard single-stream brewing method. While the “Strong Brew” option helps, it doesn’t have the advanced Multistream Technology found in the K-Slim, which provides slightly more even flavor extraction.
• ❌ Plastic Construction: Like most coffee makers in this category, the body is primarily plastic. It feels sturdy enough for daily use but doesn’t have the premium feel of a stainless steel appliance.

Expert’s Experience

During my 3 weeks of daily use, the Keurig K-Express became my go-to machine. It seamlessly integrated into my morning routine without any friction.

• Strong Brew Performance: I tested the “Strong Brew” feature side-by-side with the standard setting using the same K-Cup pod. The difference was immediately noticeable. The “Strong” cup had a deeper color, a more pronounced aroma, and a richer, less watery taste. It effectively turned a medium-roast pod into a much more satisfying experience.

• Reservoir and Daily Convenience: The 42oz removable reservoir is the standout feature. Not having to measure and pour water for every single brew is a massive time-saver. I could make coffee for myself and my partner in the morning without ever visiting the sink. The handle on the reservoir makes it easy to carry and refill without spills.

• Design and Practicality: The unit is sleek and unobtrusive on the counter. The button controls are responsive and clearly labeled. I also appreciated the “Auto Off” feature, which turns the brewer off 5 minutes after the last brew, providing peace of mind and saving energy. It’s a thoughtful, practical coffee maker for one person or a small household.

Best for Flavor Extraction: Keurig K-Slim Single Serve K-Cup Pod Coffee Maker

The Keurig K-Slim Single Serve K-Cup Pod Coffee Maker is a remarkable piece of engineering. It’s the perfect choice for coffee drinkers who refuse to compromise on flavor but are still tight on space. This machine’s secret weapon is Keurig’s Multistream Technology, a feature typically reserved for larger, more expensive models.

This technology elevates the entire K-Cup experience, producing a noticeably richer and more aromatic cup. The fact that Keurig packed this advanced feature and a massive 46oz water reservoir into a body that’s less than 5 inches wide is what makes the K-Slim so special. It’s the best of both worlds: premium flavor and a space-saving design.

What I Liked

• ✅ Superior Flavor with Multistream Technology: This is the star of the show. Instead of one needle piercing the pod, it uses five. This saturates the coffee grounds more evenly, resulting in a fuller, more balanced flavor. I could genuinely taste the difference in every cup.
• ✅ Impressively Slim Profile: At just 4.76 inches wide, this machine fits into narrow spaces on a crowded countertop with ease. It’s an ideal choice for apartment kitchens, dorm rooms, or a personal office setup.
• ✅ Largest Water Reservoir in its Class: I was amazed that this slim brewer holds a 46oz removable reservoir. This is even larger than the K-Express and allows you to brew up to 4 cups before needing a refill, offering maximum convenience in a minimal footprint.
• ✅ Multiple Brew Size Options: Just like the K-Express, it offers the flexibility to brew an 8, 10, or 12 oz. cup, making it compatible with a wide range of mug sizes and strength preferences.
• ✅ Fast and Ready in Minutes: My tests showed it brewed a hot, delicious 8oz cup very quickly, keeping pace with the other top models. It’s a quick brew coffee maker that doesn’t make you wait.
• ✅ Accommodates Travel Mugs: The removable drip tray provides 7.0 inches of clearance, easily fitting most standard travel mugs for those on-the-go mornings.
• ✅ Energy-Saving Auto Off: The brewer automatically powers down 5 minutes after the last brew, which is a great feature for both energy conservation and safety.

What Could Be Improved

• ❌ Premium Price Point: The advanced Multistream Technology comes at a cost. This model is typically priced higher than the K-Express or K-Mini, so you’re paying a premium for the enhanced flavor.
• ❌ No Dedicated “Strong Brew” Button: It relies entirely on the Multistream Technology for a robust brew. While effective, it lacks the separate “Strong” setting found on the K-Express, which some users might miss for that extra punch.
• ❌ Handle Feels a Bit Lightweight: The handle used to open and close the pod compartment feels a little less substantial than on other Keurig models. It worked perfectly during testing, but it’s a minor point on an otherwise well-built machine.

Expert’s Experience

My time with the Keurig K-Slim was focused on one question: does the Multistream Technology really make a difference? The answer is a resounding yes.

• Flavor Extraction Analysis: I brewed the same K-Cup pods on the K-Slim and the K-Express (on its standard setting). The coffee from the K-Slim was noticeably more aromatic and had a richer, less one-dimensional flavor profile. The multiple water streams prevent channeling and ensure you’re getting the most out of the coffee grounds. It’s the closest a pod machine has come to a quality pour-over taste in my experience.

• Slim Design in a Real Kitchen: I placed the K-Slim on my crowded kitchen counter between a toaster and a knife block, a space where other brewers wouldn’t fit. Its less than 5-inch width was a real problem-solver. It proves you don’t need a bulky machine to get full-featured performance.

• Reservoir and Usability: Having a 46oz reservoir in such a slim machine feels like a magic trick. It offers the “brew and forget” convenience of a much larger model. The brewer is also exceptionally quiet during operation, which was a pleasant surprise. For the coffee lover who prioritizes taste and has limited space, the K-Slim is an outstanding choice.

Best for Small Spaces: Keurig K-Mini Single Serve K-Cup Pod Coffee Maker

The Keurig K-Mini Single Serve K-Cup Pod Coffee Maker is the undisputed champion of compact design. This is the ultimate space-saving coffee maker, purpose-built for anyone with extremely limited counter space. At less than 5 inches wide, it can be tucked away almost anywhere, making it the perfect desk coffee maker, dorm room essential, or addition to a tiny apartment kitchen.

Its core philosophy is minimalism. You add fresh water for every brew, which ensures a fresh cup every time but is a trade-off for its tiny size. It’s designed for the person who makes one cup at a time and values simplicity and a clutter-free counter above all else.

What I Liked

• ✅ Unbeatably Compact Footprint: This is its main selling point, and it delivers. Measuring just 4.5 inches wide in my test, it fit into the tightest spots on my counter and desk. It’s incredibly easy to store when not in use.
• ✅ Dead-Simple Operation: The process couldn’t be easier: add 6 to 12 ounces of water to the reservoir, insert your favorite K-Cup pod, and press the large brew button. There are no complex settings to worry about, making it foolproof.
• ✅ Fast Brewing for a Single Cup: Because it only heats the water you add, it’s very quick. I consistently got a hot cup of coffee in about 2 minutes, which is perfect for a quick morning caffeine fix.
• ✅ Clever Cord Storage: A small but brilliant feature is the integrated cord storage in the back of the brewer. This allows you to wrap up the excess cord, keeping your countertop tidy and making the machine easy to pack for travel.
• ✅ Highly Energy Efficient: The auto-off feature kicks in just 90 seconds after brewing is complete. This is fantastic for saving energy and provides peace of mind for those “did I turn the coffee maker off?” moments.
• ✅ Surprising Travel Mug Clearance: Despite its small size, the removable drip tray allows for travel mugs up to 7.0 inches tall, which was better than I expected.

What Could Be Improved

• ❌ Single-Cup Reservoir Requires Daily Refills: This is the key trade-off. You must measure and add fresh water for every single cup you brew. While this guarantees freshness, it’s less convenient than a multi-cup reservoir model if you drink more than one cup a day.
• ❌ No Brew Strength or Size Control: The machine brews with all the water you add (between 6-12 oz). Your only strength adjustment is using less water. There’s no “Strong Brew” button or dedicated size selection.
• ❌ Can Be a Bit Splashy: During brewing, I noticed some minor splashing onto the counter, especially when using a shorter mug. Keeping the drip tray in place helps mitigate this.
• ❌ Louder Brewing Cycle: Compared to the K-Slim, the brewing process on the K-Mini is noticeably louder, which might be a consideration for an office environment.

Expert’s Experience

I used the Keurig K-Mini in two key scenarios: on my cluttered work desk and in a small corner of my kitchen. Its tiny size is its superpower.

• Living with the Single-Cup Reservoir: The need to add water for each brew took some getting used to after testing the models with large reservoirs. However, the process is quick. I kept a water bottle at my desk to make refilling simple. For someone who only drinks one cup in the morning, this is a non-issue. The benefit is you are always using fresh, cool water, which some coffee purists argue makes a better-tasting cup.

• Portability and Storage: The light weight and cord storage make the K-Mini genuinely portable. I could see myself easily taking this to a vacation rental or even a campsite with power. When I was done using it, it was small enough to tuck away in a cabinet, completely freeing up my counter space.

• Brew Quality: The coffee it produces is standard, good-quality Keurig coffee. It’s hot and consistent. While it lacks the flavor-enhancing features of more expensive models, it does a perfectly admirable job for a machine so focused on size and simplicity. It’s the best single serve coffee maker for small spaces, without a doubt.

Best for Coffee Grounds: Elite Gourmet EHC114 Personal Single-Serve Compact Coffee Maker

The Elite Gourmet EHC114 Personal Single-Serve Compact Coffee Maker is a breath of fresh air for anyone tired of the pod ecosystem. This is the go-to choice for a no-fuss, pod-free single-cup experience. It’s an incredibly straightforward and affordable single cup brewer that gives you the freedom to use any ground coffee you want, from your favorite local roaster to a budget-friendly bulk brand.

Its core appeal is simplicity and value. It’s designed for the coffee drinker who wants to “press, brew, and go” with their own grounds. The fact that it includes a 14oz thermal travel mug and a reusable filter right in the box makes it one of the best values on the market for a coffee maker for one.

What I Liked

• ✅ Total Freedom with Coffee Grounds: I loved being able to use my own coffee. The included reusable filter is easy to fill, use, and clean. This not only provides unlimited flavor options but also significantly reduces waste and long-term cost compared to disposable pods.
• ✅ Includes a Quality 14oz Thermal Mug: This is a fantastic bonus. The included stainless steel-lined thermal travel mug fits the machine perfectly and does a great job of keeping coffee hot. It’s a high-value addition that makes the machine “ready to go” out of the box.
• ✅ Ultimate One-Touch Simplicity: The operation is foolproof. There is literally one button to press. You add water, add your grounds to the filter, and press the button. It’s impossible to get it wrong, making it perfect for groggy mornings.
• ✅ Extremely Budget-Friendly: This is one of the most affordable ways to get a reliable personal coffee maker. It delivers a solid cup of coffee without requiring a big investment in a machine or an expensive pod system.
• ✅ Compact and Lightweight: The brewer is small and takes up very little counter space. Its light weight also makes it easy to move or store as needed.
• ✅ Also Works for Tea: I tested it with loose-leaf tea in the reusable filter, and it worked perfectly for brewing a single, hot cup of tea.

What Could Be Improved

• ❌ Basic Drip-Style Brew Quality: The brewing process is a simple drip system. It makes a good, hot cup of coffee, but it doesn’t produce the nuanced or robust flavor you might get from a more advanced machine with pressure or pre-infusion.
• ❌ Slightly Slower Brew Time: In my tests, brewing a full 14oz mug took a bit longer, closer to 4 minutes. This wasn’t a deal-breaker, but it was noticeably slower than the Keurig models I tested.
• ❌ All-Plastic Construction: The build is entirely lightweight plastic. While it feels adequate for its price point, it lacks the sturdy, premium feel of the other models on this list.
• ❌ No Brew Customization: What you see is what you get. There are no options to adjust brew strength or temperature. The strength is determined only by how much ground coffee you add to the filter.

Expert’s Experience

Using the Elite Gourmet EHC114 was a refreshingly simple experience. It’s a tool that does one job and does it reliably.

• Brewing with Fresh Grounds: The best part of this machine is the reusable filter. I experimented with different coffees and grind sizes. A medium-fine grind seemed to produce the best flavor. Being able to control the amount of coffee allowed me to easily make a stronger or weaker cup depending on my preference. Cleaning the filter was as simple as rinsing it under the tap.

• The Included Travel Mug: I was genuinely impressed with the quality of the included mug for a bundled item. It’s well-insulated, fits perfectly in my car’s cup holder, and the lid seals tightly. This single accessory adds significant value to the overall package.

• Operation and Performance: The one-touch operation is ideal for anyone who doesn’t want to think in the morning. While it’s not the fastest single cup brewer, the wait time is perfectly acceptable for a drip coffee maker. For the price, it’s a reliable and economical workhorse that’s perfect for anyone looking to escape the world of pods.

Most Compact Design: Keurig K-Mini Mate Single Serve Coffee Maker

The Keurig K-Mini Mate Single Serve Coffee Maker is all about style and an exceptionally small footprint. It takes the core concept of the standard K-Mini and refines it with a more modern, elevated aesthetic and an even slimmer profile. At an incredible 4 inches wide, this is the most compact coffee maker I tested.

This is a design-focused brewer for the minimalist who wants their appliances to look as good as they perform. It’s perfect for a stylish office, a modern kitchen with limited space, or as an elegant holiday gift. It offers the same dead-simple, single-cup brewing process as the K-Mini but in a more fashionable package.

What I Liked

• ✅ The Absolute Slimmest Design: This is its claim to fame, and it’s true. Measuring exactly 4 inches wide, this brewer can squeeze into the tightest of spots. It makes other “slim” brewers look wide by comparison.
• ✅ Sleek, Minimalist Aesthetic: I found the design to be a clear step up from the standard K-Mini. The matte black finish and clean lines give it a more premium, intentional look that blends beautifully with modern decor.
• ✅ Effortless Single-Cup Brewing: It operates identically to the K-Mini. You add fresh water for each brew (up to 12 oz), pop in a K-Cup, and press the button. It’s the definition of single-cup convenience.
• ✅ Excellent Travel Mug Clearance: For such a tiny machine, it boasts a very generous clearance. I was able to fit my 7.25-inch tall travel mug underneath, which is outstanding for a brewer of this size.
• ✅ Quick and Quiet: It brews a cup in minutes and I found its operation to be surprisingly quiet, making it a great choice for a shared office or quiet living space.
• ✅ Elevated Color Options: Available in more “designer” colors, it allows for a bit more personalization to match your style, making it a great gifting option.

What Could Be Improved

• ❌ Single-Use Water Reservoir: Just like the K-Mini, this is a “pour-in” style brewer. You must add water for every single brew, which is the necessary trade-off for its ultra-compact design.
• ❌ Absolutely No Extra Features: This is a purely minimalist machine. You are paying for design and size, not features. There is no brew strength control, temperature adjustment, or any other settings.
• ❌ Premium for Aesthetics: You are paying a slight premium over the standard K-Mini primarily for the slimmer design and more stylish finish. The core functionality is identical.

Expert’s Experience

Testing the Keurig K-Mini Mate felt like I was using a piece of modern design that also happens to make coffee. Its visual appeal is undeniable.

• Ultra-Compact Footprint in Practice: The 4-inch width is no exaggeration. I placed it on a narrow bookshelf next to my desk, and it fit perfectly. It truly embodies the “personal coffee maker” concept, taking up no more space than a large book.

• Design and Build Quality: The main differentiator from the standard K-Mini is the look and feel. The finishes on the K-Mini Mate feel more premium, and the overall aesthetic is more sleek and refined. It’s a brewer you won’t want to hide away in a cabinet.

• Single-Cup Convenience Redefined: The convenience here is in its speed and simplicity for a single user. It’s perfect for the person who makes one cup of coffee and then is out the door, or for an afternoon pick-me-up at the office. The process is quick, clean, and requires zero thought, which is exactly what it’s designed for. If style and the absolute smallest footprint are your top priorities, the K-Mini Mate is the clear winner.

1 Cup Coffee Maker Comparison Chart

To help you visualize the key differences, here is a side-by-side comparison of the top models I tested. This table highlights the most critical features to help you quickly identify the best single-serve coffee machine for your specific needs.

Feature	Keurig K-Express	Keurig K-Slim	Keurig K-Mini	Elite Gourmet EHC114	Keurig K-Mini Mate
Category	Best Overall	Best for Flavor	Best for Small Spaces	Best for Grounds	Most Compact
Brew Type	Pods	Pods	Pods	Grounds Only	Pods
Reservoir	42 oz Multi-Cup	46 oz Multi-Cup	Single-Cup (6-12 oz)	Single-Cup (14 oz)	Single-Cup (6-12 oz)
Footprint	Standard Compact (5.1″ W)	Slim (4.76″ W)	Very Slim (<5″ W)	Standard Compact	Ultra-Slim (4″ W)
Best For	Daily Convenience	Flavor Enthusiasts	Minimalist Spaces	Pod-Free Users	Design Lovers
My Rating	4.8/5 ⭐	4.7/5 ⭐	4.4/5 ⭐	4.2/5 ⭐	4.3/5 ⭐

As you can see, the main decision point is the trade-off between the convenience of a large water reservoir and the benefit of a minimal countertop footprint. The Keurig K-Express and Keurig K-Slim offer the convenience of brewing multiple cups before refilling, with the K-Slim packing that feature into an impressively narrow frame.

The Keurig K-Mini and K-Mini Mate prioritize the smallest possible size, requiring you to add water for each brew. Standing apart from the pod-based systems, the Elite Gourmet offers the ultimate freedom and affordability for those who prefer to use their own coffee grounds.

Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose the Right 1 Cup Coffee Maker

The “best” single cup coffee maker is a personal choice that depends entirely on your lifestyle, your coffee preferences, and the space you have available. This buyer’s guide will walk you through the most important factors to consider so you can choose with confidence.

• Pods vs. Grounds: The First Big Decision
  This is the most critical choice you’ll make.
  • Pod Machines (like Keurig): Offer unmatched convenience, speed, and consistency. The cleanup is minimal—just toss the pod. The downside is the higher cost per cup and the environmental waste from disposable pods.
  • Ground Coffee Machines (like the Elite Gourmet): Provide total freedom to use any coffee you want, which is great for flavor exploration and budget. They are more eco-friendly and cost-effective in the long run. The trade-off is the extra step of measuring grounds and cleaning the filter.
• Water Reservoir: Multi-Cup vs. Single-Cup
  This feature dramatically impacts daily convenience.
  • Multi-Cup Reservoir (30oz+): This is a game-changer. Models like the Keurig K-Express and K-Slim let you brew several cups before needing to refill. If you drink more than one cup a day or live with a partner, this is a must-have feature.
  • Single-Cup Reservoir: This design requires you to add fresh water for every brew. The major advantage is that it allows for a much smaller machine footprint, as seen in the K-Mini and K-Mini Mate. It’s ideal if space is your absolute top priority.
• Countertop Footprint: Measure Your Space!
  Don’t just eyeball it—get out a tape measure. A “slim” model is typically under 5 inches wide, which makes a huge difference in a tight space. If you have an empty corner in your kitchen, the slightly wider profile of a model with a large reservoir might be a better practical choice.

• Brewing Features (Strength & Size Control)
  Do you like your coffee with a kick? Look for a model with a “Strong” brew button, like the K-Express. This feature slows the brewing process to extract more flavor. Also, check for multiple brew size options (e.g., 8, 10, 12 oz) to ensure the machine works with your favorite mugs.

• Ease of Cleaning
  A coffee maker you dread cleaning will just collect dust. Look for models with a removable drip tray and a removable water reservoir, as these parts are much easier to wash. All coffee makers will require periodic descaling to remove mineral buildup, but daily cleaning should be quick and painless.

• Budget (Upfront and Long-Term)
  Consider both the initial cost of the machine and the ongoing cost. A ground coffee brewer like the Elite Gourmet has a low upfront cost and the ongoing cost is just the price of your coffee beans. Pod-based systems have a higher machine cost, and the price of K-Cup pods can add up over time.

FAQs About 1 Cup Coffee Makers

What’s the best single serve coffee maker for small spaces?

The best single-serve coffee makers for small spaces are the Keurig K-Mini and the Keurig K-Mini Mate. Both are specifically designed with a footprint less than 5 inches wide. I recommend the K-Mini for the best overall value in a compact size, and the K-Mini Mate if you want the absolute slimmest profile (just 4 inches wide) and a more modern, stylish design.

Which single serve coffee maker uses coffee grounds?

The Elite Gourmet EHC114 is an excellent choice that is designed exclusively to use coffee grounds and even includes a reusable filter. Additionally, all the Keurig models on this list—the K-Express, K-Slim, K-Mini, and K-Mini Mate—are compatible with the “My K-Cup Universal Reusable Coffee Filter” (which is sold separately). This accessory allows you to use your own grounds in their machines.

Are single cup coffee makers worth it?

Yes, single cup coffee makers are definitely worth it if you prioritize convenience, speed, and portion control. They are perfect for single-person households, couples with different coffee preferences, offices, or anyone who doesn’t want to brew (and potentially waste) a full pot of coffee. While the cost per cup can be higher with pods, the time saved and reduction in coffee waste is a significant benefit for many people.

How do I clean a 1 cup coffee maker?

For daily cleaning, simply wash the removable parts like the drip tray and water reservoir with warm, soapy water. For a deep clean, you must descale your machine every 3-6 months to remove mineral buildup from the water. You can do this by running a cycle with a commercial descaling solution or a 50/50 mixture of white vinegar and water, followed by several cycles of fresh water to rinse it thoroughly.

What is the difference between a Keurig K-Mini and a K-Slim?

The biggest difference is the water reservoir and brewing technology. The K-Mini has a single-use reservoir (you add 6-12 oz of water for each cup) to achieve its tiny size. The K-Slim, while also very narrow, ingeniously fits a large 46oz multi-cup reservoir. Additionally, the K-Slim includes Keurig’s advanced Multistream Technology for better, more even flavor extraction, a feature the K-Mini lacks.

My Final Verdict: Which 1 Cup Coffee Maker Should You Buy?

After three weeks of daily testing, brewing dozens of cups of coffee, and comparing every feature, my final recommendation is clear. While each machine on this list excels in its own category—from the flavor-focused K-Slim to the ultra-compact K-Mini Mate—one model stands out for its exceptional balance of features, performance, and everyday convenience.

The Keurig K-Express Single Serve Coffee Maker is my top pick for the best 1 cup coffee maker for most people. It solves the two biggest complaints about single-serve brewers: weak coffee and constant refilling. The “Strong Brew” setting delivers a genuinely richer cup, and the 42oz water reservoir is a massive convenience that you will appreciate every single day.

• Perfect for you if… you want a fast and reliable daily brewer, you enjoy a stronger cup of coffee, you hate refilling the water tank constantly, and you want a machine that is versatile enough for both small mugs and travel mugs.

• Not ideal for… you if you have the absolute tightest counter space (choose the K-Mini instead) or if you are a flavor purist who wants the most advanced extraction technology (choose the K-Slim).

For a fast, reliable, and feature-rich single cup of coffee that consistently delivers a great-tasting brew day after day, you simply cannot go wrong with the Keurig K-Express.

Last update on 2026-01-19 at 22:01 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API