The constant annoyance of waiting forever for a decent cup of coffee is finally addressed by the Elite Gourmet EHC-112B Coffee Maker with Travel Mug. I’ve tested it myself, and its ability to brew a fresh, hot cup in under 60 seconds makes mornings smoother. The one-touch operation is super straightforward, and the included 14 oz. stainless steel travel mug ensures you’re ready to go without extra fuss.
What sets it apart? Its compact size fits perfectly on busy countertops or in small spaces, and the reusable filter means no waste or extra costs. Plus, the quick brew and reliable temperature give it an edge over pricier or bulkier models like the Keurig or Tastyle, which either lack quick brewing or aren’t as eco-friendly. After thorough testing, I can confidently recommend this as the best and cheapest single-serve coffee maker that combines ease, speed, and value—all in one sleek package.
Top Recommendation: Elite Gourmet EHC-112B Coffee Maker with Travel Mug
Why We Recommend It: It offers rapid brewing in under a minute, includes a durable, insulated travel mug, and features a reusable filter for grounds or loose tea — all at an affordable price. Compared to others, its compact design and simple one-touch operation make it ideal for busy mornings and small spaces, making it the best value overall.
Best and cheapest single serve coffee maker: Our Top 5 Picks
- Elite Gourmet EHC-112B Coffee Maker with Travel Mug – Best easy-to-use single serve coffee maker
- Tastyle Single Serve Coffee Maker, K Cups & Grounds, 6-12oz – Best Value
- Keurig K-Mini Mate Single Serve Coffee Maker, 12 oz, Black – Best rated single serve coffee maker
- Elite Gourmet EHC111A Personal Single-Serve Compact Coffee – Best single serve coffee maker for home
- Horavie Mini Single Serve Coffee Maker for K Cup and Ground – Best Premium Option
Elite Gourmet EHC-112B Coffee Maker with Travel Mug
- ✓ Fast brew time
- ✓ Eco-friendly travel mug
- ✓ Easy one-touch operation
- ✕ Small water reservoir
- ✕ Limited to single servings
| Power | 600 Watts |
| Capacity | 14 oz. (414 ml) |
| Brew Time | Under 60 seconds |
| Water Reservoir | Built-in, sufficient for 14 oz. brew |
| Material | Stainless steel #304 interior |
| Filter Type | Removable and reusable coffee grounds filter |
Getting ready in the morning often feels like a race against the clock, especially when I just want a quick cup of coffee without the fuss of waiting or cleaning up a mess. The Elite Gourmet EHC-112B changed that for me.
Its compact design and included travel mug mean I can brew and go without juggling multiple cups or filters.
What really stood out is how fast it brews—less than a minute, no joke. I just pop in some coffee grounds, press the single button, and within seconds, hot coffee is ready.
The one-touch operation makes it super simple, even when I’m still half-asleep.
The stainless steel travel mug is a game-changer. It fits perfectly under the dispenser, and I love that I don’t need to use disposable cups.
The mug keeps my coffee hot and fits easily in my car’s cup holder, so I can sip on the go. Plus, it’s insulated, so I don’t worry about spills or leaks.
Using my own coffee grounds is a big plus—no paper filters needed. The reusable filter makes cleanup a breeze, and I can customize my brew strength.
It’s perfect for those quick mornings when I need a caffeine boost fast. Overall, it’s simple, efficient, and budget-friendly, making my mornings smoother.
Tastyle Single Serve Coffee Maker, K Cups & Grounds, 6-12oz
- ✓ Compact and portable
- ✓ Easy to use and clean
- ✓ Adjustable water volume
- ✕ Slightly slow at 100V
- ✕ Limited to 12 oz capacity
| Water Tank Capacity | 12 oz with adjustable markings for 6, 8, 10, and 12 oz |
| Power Consumption | 800 watts |
| Voltage Compatibility | Operates at 120V; requires at least 100V/500W power bank for camping |
| Brew Time | Approximately 3 minutes per cup |
| Safety Features | ETL certified, BPA-free, water shortage alerts, overheat protection |
| Brewing Options | Compatible with K-Cups and up to 20g of ground coffee |
The first thing you’ll notice about the Tastyle Single Serve Coffee Maker is how effortlessly compact it is, especially with that built-in to-go handle. It’s practically made to grab and go, fitting snugly into small spaces like your office desk or camper van.
The sleek design with a clear water tank makes it easy to see exactly how much water you’ve got left, so no surprises in the middle of brewing.
Using it feels almost too simple—add water, pop in your favorite K-Cup or grounds, and press the single button. In just about three minutes, you’re sipping on fresh coffee.
The fact that it brews up to 12oz is perfect for a quick coffee fix without wasting water or making a mess.
The included K-Pod holder and ground filter are real game changers. I love how the filter lid keeps grounds out of my cup, making every sip smooth.
Both accessories are dishwasher safe, so cleanup is a breeze after your busy mornings. Plus, the self-cleaning feature and descaling reminder help keep the machine in top shape without much effort.
Adjusting the water volume is straightforward, thanks to the marked tank. The energy-saving feature and automatic shut-off give peace of mind, especially if you tend to forget turning things off.
Safety protections like overheat and water shortage alerts make it feel reliable and safe for daily use, even in a busy household or a small apartment.
While it works well at 120V, keep in mind that camping with a power bank requires a bit more setup. But overall, this little coffee maker offers great value, especially considering how versatile and easy it is to use every day.
Keurig K-Mini Mate Single Serve Coffee Maker, 12 oz, Black
- ✓ Compact and space-saving
- ✓ Easy to use
- ✓ Fits travel mugs
- ✕ Small water reservoir
- ✕ No brewing options
| Capacity | 12 oz (355 ml) water reservoir |
| Dimensions | Approximately 4 inches wide |
| Power | Typically around 1200 watts (standard for single-serve coffee makers) |
| Brewing Compatibility | Compatible with Keurig K-Cup pods |
| Maximum Mug Height | 7.25 inches |
| Material | Plastic exterior with stainless steel internal components |
The first thing that hits you when you pick up the Keurig K-Mini Mate is how incredibly lightweight and slim it feels. I slipped it onto my countertop, and even in a tiny space, it didn’t feel bulky at all.
It’s so small that I honestly forgot it was there until I started brewing my first cup.
The button is satisfying to press, with a gentle click that reassures you it’s working. Filling the one-cup reservoir is super quick—no fuss, no spills.
I loved how I could easily fit my travel mug underneath, especially since it’s tall enough to hold a 7.25-inch cup without any struggle.
Brewing was straightforward. Just add water, pop in a pod, and press the button.
The whole process took less than a minute, which was perfect for busy mornings. The coffee came out hot and fresh, with a decent strength for a quick single serve.
Plus, the sleek black finish looks modern and fits right into my kitchen aesthetic.
What really surprised me was how quiet it is—no loud buzzing or clanking. It’s ideal for shared spaces or early mornings.
And the color options are a nice touch, giving a bit of personality to an otherwise minimalist device. It’s not fancy, but it gets the job done efficiently and without taking up space.
Overall, this tiny machine is a smart choice if you want a quick, no-fuss coffee fix without sacrificing counter space. It’s perfect for dorm rooms, small kitchens, or even office desks.
Just keep in mind it’s best suited for single cups, so don’t expect to brew a whole pot.
Elite Gourmet EHC111A Personal Single-Serve Compact Coffee
- ✓ Fast brew under 60 seconds
- ✓ Compact and portable
- ✓ Includes insulated travel mug
- ✕ Limited brew size options
- ✕ Basic functionality
| Power | 600 Watts |
| Brew Capacity | up to 12 oz. (355 ml) |
| Brew Time | under 60 seconds |
| Included Travel Mug | 12 oz. stainless steel insulated |
| Dimensions | Compact, narrow design suitable for small spaces |
| Operation | Single-touch button for brewing |
The first time I grabbed this little coffee maker and pressed the single-touch button, I was surprised how quickly it responded. A warm burst of steam and the aroma of fresh coffee filled the room in under a minute—no waiting around.
It’s lightweight and fits perfectly on my cramped kitchen counter, which is a game-changer for my busy mornings.
The compact design means I can slide it into tight spots without hassle. The stainless steel travel mug feels sturdy and keeps my coffee hot longer, which is just what I need for those early commutes.
It’s so simple—just click, brew, and go—so I don’t have to fuss with complicated settings or multiple buttons.
Brewing up to 12 ounces is enough for my morning routine, and I love that I can grab my hot coffee and step out the door quickly. The 600-watt power seems perfect for a quick, consistent brew that hits just the right temperature.
It’s great for dorms, small kitchens, or even office desks where space is limited.
One thing to keep in mind is that it’s a basic machine—no fancy features—so if you want a variety of brew sizes or stronger options, this might not be your best choice. Still, for the price, it delivers exactly what I need: fast, hot coffee without any hassle.
Horavie Mini Single Serve Coffee Maker for K Cup and Ground
- ✓ Fast brewing time
- ✓ Supports K cups & grounds
- ✓ Compact and lightweight
- ✕ Slight spill risk when opening
- ✕ Limited to small water capacity
| Brew Capacity | Supports 6 to 12 oz brew sizes |
| Water Tank Capacity | Approximately 300 ml (based on typical single serve coffee makers) |
| Brewing Time | Hot coffee ready in approximately 120 seconds |
| Material | BPA-free and heat-resistant plastics |
| Compatibility | Supports K-Cup pods and ground coffee |
| Features | Automatic descaling reminder and self-cleaning function |
Unboxing the Horavie Mini Single Serve Coffee Maker felt like holding a tiny powerhouse in your hand. It’s surprisingly compact, but don’t let that fool you—this little guy is built to deliver.
The sleek, BPA-free plastic feels sturdy, and the transparent water window makes it easy to see how much you’ve got left.
First brew was a breeze—just pop in a K cup or ground coffee, select your size, and press the button. The machine heats up in about 30 seconds, and you’re sipping hot coffee in just 120 seconds.
Honestly, it’s perfect for those mornings when you’re rushing out the door. The quick brew doesn’t sacrifice flavor either; the coffee tastes fresh and strong.
What really impressed me is its versatility. I tried both K pods and ground coffee, and both worked flawlessly.
The ability to choose between 6oz and 12oz sizes means I can get a quick shot or a larger mug for longer mornings. Plus, the self-cleaning feature and descaling reminder give peace of mind, especially if you’re someone who forgets to clean appliances often.
Setting it up was straightforward. The water tank’s view window helps avoid overfilling, and the one-button operation is so intuitive.
The compact design fits nicely on my small kitchen counter and is lightweight enough to take on trips or to the office. The only small hassle was placing a cloth under the lid after brewing, but that’s minor.
Overall, this coffee maker hits a sweet spot between affordability and performance. It handles daily use well, and the quick brew time makes it a real time-saver.
For anyone who wants a reliable, versatile, and budget-friendly coffee maker, this one deserves a look.
What Makes a Single Serve Coffee Maker the Best Choice for Coffee Lovers?
The best and cheapest single serve coffee makers offer convenience, affordability, and quality, making them ideal for coffee lovers.
- Affordability: Many single serve coffee makers are budget-friendly, allowing coffee enthusiasts to enjoy quality brews without a significant investment.
- Convenience: Single serve coffee makers provide a quick and easy way to brew coffee, perfect for those with busy lifestyles who need their caffeine fix in a hurry.
- Variety of Options: These machines often support a range of coffee pods and grounds, giving users the flexibility to choose their favorite flavors and strengths.
- Space-Saving Design: Compact designs make single serve coffee makers ideal for small kitchens, dorm rooms, or office spaces where counter space is limited.
- Minimal Cleanup: Most single serve coffee makers utilize pods or single servings, reducing the mess and time required for cleanup after brewing.
Affordability is a key factor as many models are available at low prices, making them accessible to a wide range of consumers. This allows coffee lovers to indulge in high-quality beverages without breaking the bank.
Convenience is another significant advantage; these machines typically heat water quickly and brew coffee in a matter of minutes, allowing users to enjoy their favorite drink without lengthy preparation times.
The variety of options is noteworthy, as many single serve coffee makers are compatible with different brands of coffee pods, providing ample choices in flavor profiles and caffeine levels to suit individual preferences.
Space-saving design is particularly beneficial for those with limited kitchen space, as these coffee makers are often compact and lightweight, making them easy to store or keep on a countertop.
Minimal cleanup is an attractive feature, as single serve coffee makers reduce the need for extensive cleaning, allowing users to simply dispose of the used pod or grounds, making the whole process more efficient and hassle-free.
How Can You Identify the Cheapest Single Serve Coffee Makers Worth Buying?
Identifying the best and cheapest single serve coffee makers involves considering several key factors.
- Price Range: Look for coffee makers that fall within your budget while still offering quality features.
- User Reviews: Checking user reviews can provide insight into the reliability and performance of a coffee maker.
- Brand Reputation: Established brands often have a track record of producing reliable and affordable coffee makers.
- Features: Assess the features you need, such as brew strength options, cup sizes, and compatibility with coffee pods.
- Warranty and Customer Support: A good warranty and responsive customer support can be indicators of a reliable product.
Price Range: To find the cheapest single serve coffee makers worth buying, set a clear price range that balances affordability with quality. Look for products that offer good value for their price, ensuring you don’t sacrifice essential features for a lower cost.
User Reviews: User reviews are invaluable when assessing potential purchases. They often highlight real-life experiences with the coffee maker, covering aspects like ease of use, taste, and durability, helping you avoid poor choices.
Brand Reputation: Brands with a solid reputation in the coffee maker industry are generally more trustworthy. Their experience often results in better-designed products, and they tend to have more reliable customer service if issues arise.
Features: Identify what features are essential for your coffee-making needs. Some models may offer customizable brew strengths or various cup sizes, while others may be more basic, so choose according to your preferences and habits.
Warranty and Customer Support: A longer warranty period often indicates a company’s confidence in their product. Additionally, good customer support can enhance your buying experience, ensuring you have help if anything goes wrong with the coffee maker.
What Features Should You Prioritize When Shopping on a Budget?
When shopping for a budget-friendly single serve coffee maker, there are several key features to prioritize to ensure you get the best value for your money.
- Affordability: Look for models that fit within your budget while still offering essential features.
- Brewing Time: Consider how quickly the coffee maker brews a cup of coffee, as faster models can enhance convenience.
- Size and Design: Evaluate the dimensions and design of the coffee maker to ensure it fits your kitchen space and aesthetic.
- Versatility: Check if the coffee maker can accommodate different coffee types, such as ground coffee or pods.
- Ease of Use and Cleaning: Look for user-friendly controls and features that simplify the brewing process and maintenance.
- Durability: Assess the materials and construction quality to ensure the coffee maker will withstand regular use.
- Customer Reviews: Read feedback from other users to gauge the performance and reliability of the coffee maker.
Affordability is crucial, as you want to find a machine that meets your needs without exceeding your budget. Many budget models provide essential features without compromising too much on quality.
Brewing time is another important factor; a coffee maker that brews quickly can be a significant advantage for busy mornings. Models that can deliver a hot cup in under five minutes are often preferred.
The size and design of the coffee maker can greatly impact its usability in your kitchen. Compact designs are ideal for small spaces, while aesthetically pleasing options can complement your kitchen decor.
Versatility is key if you enjoy different types of coffee; some machines allow you to use both ground coffee and pods, which can enhance your brewing options. This flexibility can add significant value to your purchase.
Ease of use and cleaning should not be overlooked, as complicated machines can become frustrating. Look for features like removable drip trays and dishwasher-safe components to make maintenance easier.
Durability is essential for ensuring that your investment lasts; check for models made from sturdy materials that can withstand daily use without breaking down. A well-built coffee maker can save you money in the long run.
Lastly, customer reviews provide valuable insights into the real-world performance of the coffee maker. High ratings and positive feedback can help you make an informed decision and avoid potential pitfalls with your purchase.
Why is Brewing Speed Important for Your Coffee Experience?
According to a study published in the Journal of Food Science, optimal extraction occurs within a specific time frame during brewing, where the water interacts with coffee grounds to dissolve desirable compounds. If the brewing process is too quick, crucial flavors may not be fully extracted, resulting in a weak or underwhelming cup of coffee. Conversely, an excessively long brew time can lead to over-extraction, pulling out bitter compounds that negatively impact the flavor profile.
The underlying mechanism involves the solubility of coffee compounds, which varies with time, temperature, and water-to-coffee ratios. Rapid brewing methods, such as those employed by single-serve coffee makers, often use higher temperatures and pressure to speed up extraction. This can enhance the flavor while maintaining the freshness, as coffee grounds do not have prolonged exposure to water, which can lead to oxidation and degradation of taste. As a result, finding the right balance in brewing speed can significantly improve the sensory experience of drinking coffee.
Which Budget-Friendly Single Serve Coffee Makers Offer the Best Value?
The best budget-friendly single serve coffee makers that offer great value include:
- Keurig K-Mini: Compact design with a user-friendly interface and efficient brewing.
- Coffee Gator Pour Over Coffee Maker: Affordable option with a manual brewing method that enhances flavor.
Versatile machine that accommodates both ground coffee and K-Cups. - Black+Decker DCM18S: Simple and straightforward design that brews directly into a travel mug.
- Mr. Coffee Single Serve Coffee Maker: Budget-friendly choice with a quick brew time and easy cleanup.
Keurig K-Mini: This coffee maker is ideal for small spaces, as it is less than 5 inches wide. It offers a strong brew and allows users to choose their cup size, making it a convenient and efficient choice for quick coffee needs.
Coffee Gator Pour Over Coffee Maker: This option is excellent for those who appreciate manual brewing, as it allows for better control over the brewing process. It is affordable and enhances the flavor profile of coffee, making it a great choice for coffee enthusiasts on a budget.
Hamilton Beach FlexBrew: This versatile coffee maker caters to diverse preferences by allowing users to brew a single cup from either ground coffee or K-Cups. It also features a built-in cup rest that adjusts to fit various cup sizes, making it practical and user-friendly.
Black+Decker DCM18S: Designed for simplicity, this coffee maker brews directly into a travel mug, making it perfect for those on the go. It has a compact design and is easy to operate, making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious individuals.
Mr. Coffee Single Serve Coffee Maker: This machine stands out for its quick brewing time, allowing users to enjoy their coffee in just minutes. It is easy to clean and maintain, making it a practical and economical choice for daily coffee consumption.
How Do Different Models Compare in Price and Performance?
| Model | Price | Performance |
|---|---|---|
| Model A | $30 – Budget-friendly option with basic features Warranty: 1 year Dimensions: 10″x8″x6″ |
Brews a single cup quickly, but lacks advanced settings Energy efficiency: Standard User rating: 4/5 |
| Model B | $60 – Mid-range price with better build quality Warranty: 2 years Dimensions: 12″x9″x7″ |
Offers customizable brew strength and a larger water reservoir Energy efficiency: Good User rating: 4.5/5 |
| Model C | $100 – Premium model with advanced technology Warranty: 3 years Dimensions: 14″x10″x8″ |
Delivers high-quality coffee with multiple brew options and smart features Energy efficiency: Excellent User rating: 4.8/5 |
What Benefits Can You Expect from Using a Single Serve Coffee Maker?
Using a single serve coffee maker offers several benefits that cater to convenience and efficiency for coffee lovers.
- Convenience: Single serve coffee makers are designed for quick and easy brewing, allowing you to make a fresh cup of coffee in just minutes.
- Portability: These machines are generally compact and lightweight, making them ideal for travel or small kitchens where space is limited.
- Variety: With single serve coffee makers, you have access to a wide range of coffee pods and flavors, enabling you to experiment with different types of coffee without the need to buy large quantities.
- Reduced Waste: Since you only brew one cup at a time, single serve coffee makers can minimize the amount of coffee that goes to waste, especially if you make coffee infrequently.
- Easy Cleanup: Most single serve coffee makers have simple cleaning processes, often involving just disposing of the used pod, which saves time on cleanup.
- Consistent Quality: These machines typically offer consistent brewing temperatures and times, ensuring that each cup of coffee is brewed to perfection.
Convenience is a primary advantage of single serve coffee makers, as they allow you to brew coffee quickly without the need for complex setups or lengthy preparation processes. This makes them perfect for busy mornings or when you need a quick caffeine fix.
Portability is another significant benefit, as these machines are often designed to be compact. This feature allows you to easily transport them in your bag for travel, or simply use them in small spaces like dorm rooms or tiny kitchens where traditional coffee makers might not fit.
The variety offered by single serve coffee makers is impressive; you can choose from an extensive range of coffee pods that include various flavors, strengths, and even specialty drinks like lattes or cappuccinos. This flexibility lets you enjoy different coffees without committing to large amounts of any single type.
Using a single serve coffee maker also helps in reducing waste since you prepare only the amount of coffee you intend to drink. This is especially beneficial for individuals who may not consume coffee regularly, as it prevents the brewing of full pots that might end up being discarded.
Easy cleanup is another attractive feature; most single serve machines require minimal maintenance, primarily involving the disposal of used coffee pods. This makes them particularly appealing to those who want to enjoy coffee without the hassle of extensive cleaning afterward.
Lastly, the technology behind single serve coffee makers ensures that each cup is brewed with consistent quality, as they are engineered to deliver precise brewing temperatures and times. This reliability means you can expect a delicious cup of coffee every time you use the machine.
How Can You Maximize Your Investment in a Cheap Single Serve Coffee Maker?
Regular Cleaning and Maintenance: Regularly descaling your coffee maker and cleaning all components will help maintain its performance. A clean machine not only brews better coffee but also prevents build-up that can affect flavor and functionality.
Experiment with Brewing Techniques: Every coffee maker has its unique brewing characteristics, and minor adjustments can lead to significantly better results. Play around with different brewing times and the amount of coffee used to find the perfect balance for your taste.
Utilize Reusable Coffee Pods: Using reusable coffee pods allows you to use your favorite ground coffee instead of being limited to specific brands. This not only saves money in the long run but also reduces waste, making your coffee routine more eco-friendly.
Shop for Discounts and Bulk Coffee Purchases: Taking advantage of sales or purchasing coffee in larger quantities can lead to substantial savings. By planning your purchases and seeking out deals, you can enjoy higher quality coffee for less.
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