How to Get the Best One Cup Coffee Maker

One cup coffee makers are great for people who just want a single cup of brew before taking off in the morning. They offer more than that though. They are also perfect in any household when each person has different tastes in their morning beverage. When you brew a single cup of coffee with a pod system, each cup can be something entirely different, and yet, there will be no residual flavor from the beverage made beforehand.

The other great thing about these handy devices is that excess coffee doesn't sit around to get burnt or cold. Every cup is a fresh cup.

These appliances are very easy to clean. Generally, you just need to keep the tray clean by wiping it up each day. Then you'll need to descale it occasionally. Some of these units will have an indicator light to let you know when it needs to be cleaned. Then it's a matter of following the manufacturer's instructions. Generally, pouring in a vinegar and water solution to run through the machine, and then following this with a water rinse is all that's needed.

Choosing a one cup coffee maker isn't a difficult task but there are a few things to think about to get the one that is best for you.

Pod systems versus drip systems

Drip system models allow the user to select any standard ground coffee for use. This makes the ongoing expense reasonable. However, the process of making a cup is a bit more involved as you have to insert a filter, measure the coffee, and clean up afterward. A model that uses a pod system uses pre-measured packets or pods of coffee. This limits the choices of which coffees you drink. The pods are more expensive per serving than when buying the ground variety. However, the system is very easy and quick. The user simply places the pod in the machine, adds water, and presses a button to begin brewing. There is virtually no clean up needed.

Some pod system devices do work with a variety of brands and offer 50, 60 or 70 varieties of beverages. While they have a higher ongoing cost than a drip system, they are less expensive than purchasing beverages in most coffee shops.

Beverage Sizes

Some one cup coffee makers will brew a 4 ounce cup, others will brew a 6 ounce cup, and others may give the user several options from 4 ounces to 12 ounces. You'll also want to know what size mug the coffee maker will accommodate. Some can handle only small mugs while others can handle nearly any size up to, and including, tall travel mugs.

Water Reservoir

If more than one person will be using the machine or if you will be wanting more than one cup of coffee, you'll also want to consider the water reservoir. Some reservoirs can handle 16 ounces of water, others 48 ounces or more. A larger reservoir means that you won't have to refill as often making the process faster when you're pressed for time.

Speed

If you're always pressed for time in the morning, then the speed at which the machine will brew your cup is important. Some require preheating, some don't. Of course one that is fully programmable and allows you to pre-set a time for it to begin the brewing process can help too.

Flexibility

Some of these devices can allow the user to make a number of beverages. Coffees, teas, lattes, cappacinos, and so forth. If you don't have a need to brew more than a standard cup of coffee then these features are meaningless, but if your household or tastes extend into these areas, this is an important thing to consider.

Convenience Features

Auto shut off is important for those of us who might occasionally forget to shut off the coffee maker. Some offer an indicator light so that you know when you need to descale any hard water/mineral deposits. Of course some also offer more controls such as the ability to adjust temperature, brew time, and so forth.