Best Cheap Single Serve Coffee Makers (Top 10 Picks!)

Are you hunting for the best cheap single serve coffee maker? These compact machines deliver delicious, custom-brew coffee for solo drinkers with speed and ease. Choosing the right single-serve coffee maker involves navigating varying brew strengths, water reservoir capacities, and ease of cleaning.

A misstep can lead to lukewarm coffee, excessive counter clutter, or a machine that’s a chore to maintain. Understanding the nuances ensures you get a beverage experience that perfectly suits your morning routine and taste preferences.

Avoid settling for less when crafting your daily cup. This roundup presents 10 top-rated models that balance performance and affordability, making them ideal for any kitchen.

For those seeking the best cheap single serve coffee maker, options often prioritize compact design and versatile brewing. The Elite Gourmet EHC113Ms and Elite Gourmet EHC114Personal models, for instance, emphasize a universal design for brewing with ground coffee, including an insulated 14-oz travel mug to reduce waste. Alternatively, the Mixpresso Black Personal Single Serve Coffee Maker also focuses on ground coffee only and fast brewing without pods, aligning with a desire for simplicity and cost-effectiveness.

Best Cheap Single Serve Coffee Maker: Top Picks At a Glance

Image	Product	Buy
Best Pick 1	Elite Gourmet EHC113M Personal Single-Serve Compact Coffee Maker Brewer Includes Best for: Small kitchens	Check Price
Best Pick 2	Elite Gourmet EHC114 Personal Single-Serve Compact Coffee Maker Brewer Includes Best for: Ultra compact	Check Price
Best Pick 3	Mixpresso Black Personal Single Serve Coffee Maker with 14oz Travel Best for: Travel ready	Check Price
Best Pick 4	Single Serve Coffeemaker, Black Best for: Simple brewing	Check Price
Best Pick 5	Horavie Small Single Serve Coffee Maker for K Cup and Best for: K cup compatible	Check Price

How We Picked

To identify the best cheap single serve coffee maker, we meticulously evaluated each model based on tangible buyer concerns. We prioritized robust build quality, ensuring durability for everyday use. Real-world performance was crucial, testing brewing speed and coffee temperature.

Safety features were paramount, and we ruled out any devices with questionable construction. Standout features, like included travel mugs or multi-brew options, were considered for added value, aiming to offer an excellent, reliable brewing experience without compromising on substantial long-term performance.

What Most Buyers Get Wrong

Pod vs. Ground Coffee Flexibility

When choosing a cheap single-serve coffee maker, pay close attention to whether it’s designed for K-Cups, ground coffee, or both. Some models, like the Mixpresso and Tastyle (#7), explicitly state they brew ground coffee only, foregoing pod convenience. If you prefer the ease of pre-portioned pods, look for machines like the Horavie (#5) or Tastyle (#7) that explicitly offer K-Cup compatibility.

This decision dramatically impacts your daily coffee routine and long-term cost.

Included Travel Mug Matters

Many affordable single-serve coffee makers come bundled with a travel mug, which is a fantastic value. However, check the details carefully. Models from Elite Gourmet (#1, #2, #6) and Mixpresso (#3) include 14-ounce insulated mugs designed to fit well under the dispenser.

The Single Serve Coffeemaker (#4) also brews directly into its included mug. Consider if the included mug’s size and material meet your portability and insulation needs to maximize convenience.

1. Elite Gourmet EHC113M Personal Single-Serve Compact Coffee Maker Brewer Includes

Best for: Travels and compact kitchens.

A 14-oz. #304 stainless steel insulated travel mug is included, letting you take your fresh coffee on the go. This brewer is designed for quick, click-and-go operation.

Brewing takes under 60 seconds with its 700-watt heating element. It uses coffee grounds and features manual operation with button inputs, connecting via an AC adapter for power.

Pros

• Includes 14-oz. insulated travel mug
• Brews in under 60 seconds
• Reusable filter type
• Compact, portable design

Cons

• Manual operation requires user input for each brew cycle.

This model is ideal for travelers or those needing a fast caffeine fix. Its included mug means you can brew and go without extra containers.

2. Elite Gourmet EHC114 Personal Single-Serve Compact Coffee Maker Brewer Includes

Best for: Quick solo coffee with auto shut-off.

An included 14-oz. insulated travel mug with stainless steel interior simplifies your morning routine. This brewer is designed for press-and-go convenience.

Enjoy quick, hot coffee with its powerful heating capabilities and fully automatic operation. The 700-watt appliance uses ground coffee and paper filters, powered by an AC adapter.

Pros

• Includes 14-oz. insulated travel mug
• Quick brew time
• Automatic shut-off feature
• Compact size

Cons

• Requires paper filters for brewing, adding an ongoing cost.

Perfect for those who want a fast, hot cup without a fuss. It suits busy mornings or a midday pick-me-up.

3. Mixpresso Black Personal Single Serve Coffee Maker with 14oz Travel

Best for: Pod-free brewing convenience.

This brewer exclusively uses ground coffee, foregoing pods for a more sustainable and cost-effective approach, and includes a 14 oz travel mug.

Its 700-watt heating power brews a full personal cup in approximately 4 minutes. The semi-automatic unit features one-touch operation and an auto shut-off for safety.

Pros

• Brews ground coffee only (no pods)
• Includes 14 oz travel mug
• Automatic shut-off
• Fast brewing under 4 minutes

Cons

• Does not accommodate coffee pods or capsules, limiting brewing options.

Ideal for coffee lovers who prefer using loose grounds and want a dedicated single-serve solution. Its included mug makes it great for commutes.

4. Single Serve Coffeemaker, Black

Best for: Small kitchens and pod/ground flexibility.

This compact brewer brews directly into an included travel mug, making it perfect for limited counter space. It heats water to optimal flavor temperatures.

The fully automatic 650-watt unit can brew using grounds or pods, with a reusable filter type included. It automatically shuts off after brewing for added peace of mind.

Pros

• Space-saving compact design
• Optimal brewing temperature
• Automatic shutoff
• Compatible with grounds and pods

Cons

• Utilizes reusable filters which may require more frequent cleaning than disposable ones.

This model is excellent for apartment dwellers or anyone with limited kitchen space. Its dual functionality with grounds and pods offers brewing flexibility.

5. Horavie Small Single Serve Coffee Maker for K Cup and

Best for: Versatile K-cup or ground coffee.

Flexible brewing supports both K-cups and ground coffee, allowing custom brew sizes from 6 to 12 oz. This maker is crafted from BPA-free, heat-resistant materials.

The 1000-watt appliance features a permanent, reusable filter type and a built-in water tank with a clear view window for easy monitoring. It operates automatically.

Pros

• Supports K-cups and ground coffee
• Adjustable brew sizes (6-12 oz)
• BPA-free and heat-resistant materials
• Permanent reusable filter

Cons

• Requires a 1000-watt power draw, potentially higher than other units.

This brewer is ideal for households with varied coffee preferences. Its ability to handle both pods and grounds offers great versatility.

6. Elite Gourmet EHC113 Personal Single-Serve Compact Coffee Maker Brewer Includes

Best for: Fast, simple espresso-style brewing.

A 14-oz. #304 stainless steel insulated travel mug is included, enabling you to brew and go with ease. This brewer is designed for quick, click-and-brew operation.

Achieve brewing in under 60 seconds thanks to its 700-watt heating power. The manual operation uses coffee grounds and a reusable filter for single-serve enjoyment.

Pros

• Includes 14-oz. insulated travel mug
• Brews in under 60 seconds
• Reusable filter included
• Compact for small spaces

Cons

• Manual operation requires user attention for brewing each cup.

This unit is perfect for individuals needing a rapid caffeine boost or those with limited kitchen space. The included mug simplifies portable coffee needs.

7. Tastyle Single Serve One Cup Coffee Maker, for K Cups

Best for: Travel-friendly with pod and ground options.

This compact coffee maker features a to-go handle for easy portability, ideal for travel or small spaces. It brews using K-Cups or up to 20g of grounds.

The 800-watt unit includes a ground filter and a K-cup holder, with both being dishwasher-safe. It offers super-simple one-button brewing for convenience.

Pros

• Compact with to-go handle
• Uses K-cups and grounds
• Dishwasher-safe accessories
• Simple one-button operation

Cons

• The 800-watt power consumption is higher than some single-serve models.

This brewer is excellent for campers, travelers, or office workers. Its dual brewing compatibility makes it highly adaptable.

8. OXO Brew Single Serve Pour-Over Coffee Maker

Best for: Effortless pour-over flavor.

This pour-over coffee maker brews consistently flavorful coffee with an auto-drip tank that precisely controls water flow. Measurement markings on the tank show exact water amounts.

The lid retains heat during brewing and doubles as a drip tray. It comes with 10 OXO Unbleached All-Natural #2 Cone Coffee Filters for optimal taste.

Pros

• Automated water flow control
• Lid retains heat and doubles as drip tray
• Includes 10 natural coffee filters
• Dishwasher safe for easy cleaning

Cons

• Manual operation requires user to pour water and tends to slower brew times.

This is perfect for the pour-over enthusiast who wants consistent results with minimal fuss. It’s especially useful for travel or a simple single cup.

9. Tastyle Mini Hot and Iced Coffee Maker Single Serve, for

Best for: Hot or iced coffee customization.

This mini, slim brewer is perfect for small spaces and travel, offering both hot and iced coffee options. It brews hot coffee in just 3 minutes.

The 800-watt machine features a descaling reminder and auto shut-off. It accommodates capsules or grounds and is designed with a reusable filter.

Pros

• Brews hot and iced coffee
• Space-saving and lightweight design
• Auto shut-off
• Descaling reminder

Cons

• Requires specific handling for ‘over ice’ brewing to prevent excessive ice melt.

This brewer is excellent for those who enjoy both hot and iced coffee year-round. Its compact size makes it ideal for apartments or travel.

10. Mr. Coffee® 5-Cup Mini Brew Switch Coffee Maker, Black

Best for: Basic single-cup brewing.

This 5-cup mini brew switch coffee maker is designed for small spaces and individual use. An updated ergonomic carafe offers easy pouring and handling.

The 650-watt brewer features a glass carafe with ounce markings for precise measuring. Its lift & clean filter basket simplifies cleanup after brewing.

Pros

• Compact design for small spaces
• Grab-a-cup auto pause
• Lift & clean filter basket
• Glass carafe with measurement markings

Cons

• Carafe is glass, making it more fragile than plastic alternatives.

This model is suitable for individuals or small households needing a simple coffee maker. Its compact nature is perfect for dorm rooms or limited kitchen areas.

Pods Versus Grounds: The Defining Cheap Brewer Choice

When navigating the world of best cheap single serve coffee maker options, the single most crucial distinction lies not in brewing speed or countertop footprint, but in whether you are committed to pods or grounds.

This fundamental choice dictates the utility and long-term viability of your purchase. For instance, the Tastyle Mini Hot and Iced Coffee Maker Single Serve and the Horavie Small Single Serve Coffee Maker for K Cup and are explicitly designed for K-Cup pods, offering a streamlined, if less flexible, experience. The Horavie, however, distinguishes itself by also accepting ground coffee, providing a hybrid functionality that caters to a broader range of preferences, though the coffee quality from ground is often superior to that from a K-cup.

Conversely, the Mixpresso Black Personal Single Serve Coffee Maker with 14oz Travel focuses exclusively on ground coffee. This approach offers greater control over the coffee itself – allowing for various roasts and grinds – and significantly reduces ongoing costs and long-term waste associated with disposable pods. The Elite Gourmet EHC113M Personal Single-Serve Compact Coffee Maker Brewer Includes, Elite Gourmet EHC114 Personal Single-Serve Compact Coffee Maker Brewer Includes, and the Elite Gourmet EHC113 Personal Single-Serve Compact Coffee Maker Brewer Includes all come with a 14-Oz.

stainless steel insulated travel mug, a generous inclusion that emphasizes convenience for ground coffee users, directly addressing the mess associated with traditional brewing methods.

The OXO Brew Single Serve Pour-Over Coffee Maker, while excellent in its own right for pour-over enthusiasts, operates on a different principle entirely, eschewing both pods and traditional single-serve baskets for a precision drip system. For those prioritizing absolute simplicity and a pre-portioned experience, the pod-focused machines are the clear path. However, for anyone seeking greater flavor customization, cost savings, and environmental consideration, opting for a brewer that handles grounds, like the Mixpresso, or the hybrid Horavie, is the more astute decision.

Ultimately, if your priority is a truly versatile and cost-effective single-serve coffee experience, the Mixpresso Black Personal Single Serve Coffee Maker with 14oz Travel represents a strong choice for ground coffee purists.

What to Look For in a Cheap Single Serve Coffee Maker

Brewing capacity and speed

When prioritizing brewing capacity and speed for your single-serve coffee maker, aim for models that deliver a full mug in under two minutes. Look for machines offering a range of cup volumes, typically from 6 to 12 ounces, allowing flexibility for your caffeine needs. A larger water reservoir, ideally holding at least 40 ounces, means fewer refills, making your morning routine smoother.

For rapid, consistent results without constant attention, choose a model with a quick heat-up time and a reservoir of 40+ ounces that brews your selected volume in under 120 seconds.

Pod compatibility and variety

For ultimate pod compatibility and variety, seek out single-serve coffee makers specifically advertised as Keurig K-Cup compatible. This opens the door to thousands of readily available coffee, tea, and hot chocolate options. Crucially, ensure the machine includes or supports a reusable filter for your favorite ground coffee, offering a budget-friendly and eco-conscious alternative.

If you enjoy exploring beyond standard roasts, confirm the machine can accommodate a wide array of specialty pods. The best choice is a machine that lists K-Cup compatibility and explicitly mentions a reusable filter option.

Design and footprint

Consider the design and footprint of your single-serve coffee maker to ensure it integrates seamlessly into your kitchen. Measure your available countertop space, paying close attention to height, width, and depth. Compact models often measure under 15 inches in height and 7 inches in width, minimizing their visual and physical impact.

While color and finish options are personal, a neutral stainless steel or black finish tends to complement most kitchen aesthetics. Opt for a unit with the smallest physical dimensions that still meets your brewing needs, ideally under 12 inches deep and 7 inches wide.

Ease of use and cleaning

Prioritize ease of use and cleaning by selecting a coffee maker with a straightforward, single-button interface for brewing. A removable drip tray is essential, easily accommodating taller travel mugs and preventing spills. Look for components explicitly labeled as dishwasher-safe, dramatically simplifying post-brew cleanup.

Machines featuring a simple one-button operation and a drip tray that easily detaches for cleaning within your dishwasher are the most user-friendly. These features streamline the entire coffee-making process from start to finish.

Which Should You Choose?

• If you want to brew ground coffee without pods, choose a model with a reusable filter.
• If you also want the option to use K-Cups, look for a machine that supports both pods and ground coffee.
• If you need a compact brewer for small spaces or travel, prioritize a mini or slim design.
• If you prefer to reduce waste from disposable cups, opt for a maker that includes a reusable travel mug.

Quick Best Cheap Single Serve Coffee Maker Buying Checklist

• Brew Size Options: Ensure it accommodates your preferred coffee volume, from small espressos to larger travel mugs.
• Pod Versatility: Check if it accepts K-Cup pods or includes a reusable filter for your own ground coffee.
• Water Reservoir: Consider a capacity that matches your daily coffee intake to minimize frequent refilling.
• Compact Design: Look for dimensions suitable for limited counter space in kitchens or dorm rooms.
• Durable Construction: Opt for sturdy materials that can withstand daily use.
• Simple Operation: Prioritize intuitive controls for quick and easy brewing.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is The Most Common Pod Type For Single-Serve Coffee Makers?

K-Cup pods are the most common type for single-serve coffee makers, offering a wide variety of coffee, tea, and hot chocolate flavors. These pre-portioned pods provide convenience and consistent results. Many machines are designed to work exclusively with K-Cups, though some offer reusable filter options.

Can I Use My Own Ground Coffee With A Cheap Single Serve Coffee Maker?

Yes, many budget-friendly single serve coffee makers come with a reusable filter basket. This allows you to use your favorite ground coffee instead of pre-packaged pods. It’s a more economical and environmentally friendly option. Just be sure to check the product details for this feature.

How Much Water Can A Typical Cheap Single Serve Coffee Maker Hold?

The water reservoir size for inexpensive single serve coffee makers typically ranges from 20 to 40 ounces. This is generally sufficient for brewing one to three cups before needing a refill. Larger reservoirs offer more convenience for households with multiple coffee drinkers.

Are Single Serve Coffee Makers Energy Efficient?

While convenient, older single serve coffee makers might not be the most energy-efficient due to constant standby power. However, newer models often incorporate auto-shutoff features to conserve energy. Look for ENERGY STAR certifications if efficiency is a key concern for your purchase.

What Is The Average Brew Time For A Single Serve Coffee Maker?

The average brew time for a single serve coffee maker is typically between 1 to 2 minutes. This rapid brewing capability is a major advantage for busy mornings. The exact time can vary slightly depending on the machine’s wattage and the selected brew size.

Final Words

Investing in the best cheap single serve coffee maker offers undeniable convenience and speed for your daily caffeine fix. Enjoying a perfectly brewed cup tailored to your taste has never been easier or more accessible. Start your mornings right by finding the ideal compact brewer that fits your needs and budget.