Contrary to popular belief, Keurig isn’t the only maker of single-serve coffee machines. Other coffee manufacturers have come out with some of the best Keurig alternatives on the market. They are high-quality, compatible with Keurig’s famous K-Cups, and may even have more features.
Keurig alternatives
Coffee drinkers have long been searching for the best way to make delicious coffee. The rising popularity of newer coffee brewing methods, such as French press and pour-over, have put automatic coffee pots on the back burner.
One of the most common ways to brew coffee nowadays is using single-serve coffee makers. The concept is brilliant and convenient.
Rather than brewing an entire pot of coffee, users can brew the desired amount of coffee in single-serving sizes. Within minutes, you can enjoy a steaming cup of Kona coffee without letting an entire pot go to waste.
The most well-known maker of single-serve coffee makers is Keurig. Keurig machines and their K-Cups have paved the way for busy coffee drinkers to quickly make great-tasting coffee at the push of a button.
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Keurig Alternative Comparison Table
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Reviews: Top 10 Keurig Alternatives
Like other coffee makers, not all Keurig alternative options are made equally. To capitalize on the popularity of single-serve coffee machines, some coffee makers are made quickly and cheaply. To avoid buying a low-quality knock-off Keurig product, you’ll want to do your research and choose carefully.
Fortunately, we’ve gone through dozens of other alternative options to a Keurig and narrowed down the selection to the best 10 picks. Each of these Keurig alternatives satisfies the following criteria: compatibility with K-Cups, single-serve options, durable construction, and they’re quick and easy to use.
1. Best Pick-Mueller Single Serve Coffee Maker
Mueller’s single-serve coffee maker is a great value because it has many premium features at a reasonable price. That’s why we’ve selected it as our top pick.
One such feature is the coffee pod insert design that’s compatible with all K-Cups. You can then choose from 3 different brew sizes: short, medium, and long.
Brewing coffee requires a lot of water. The Mueller Ultima water tank is removable for easy fill-up. It can hold up to 45 ounces of water at a time. It’s also BPA-free.
As for quality, Mueller has had this model tested by two third-party labs. They’ve received both UL and ETL certification, which are the industry gold standards for safety.
Key Details
The Mueller Ultima is a compact model that weighs only 2.2 pounds and has modest dimensions, 15.2 x 13.7 x 9.2 inches. Making coffee with this machine is quick, easy, and doesn’t require a lot of space.
If you’ve ever had a traditional coffee pot, you know how long it can take before you get your precious coffee. Instead of waiting 10 minutes for your coffee to brew, the Mueller Ultima has your coffee ready in 1 minute or less.
Their rapid brew technology is a must-have feature for anyone with busy mornings. The Mueller Ultima is also very easy to use. Simply insert the coffee pod into the coffee maker, close the lever, and choose which cup size.
While the Mueller meets the requirements of a good Keurig alternative coffee maker, it’s not as easy to clean as other models. Some of the coffee granules from the single-serve pods may leak into the machinery. Since it’s a compact machine, clearing out the loose granules isn’t an easy task. Lastly, it comes with a two year warranty.
Pros
- 1-minute brew time
- Third-party tested and certified by UL and ETL
- 2-year warranty
Cons
- Can be difficult to clean
- Loose coffee grounds can cause clogging
- Makes loud noises during brewing
2. Cuisinart Premium Single-Serve Coffee Maker
Cuisinart is one of the best and most trustworthy makers of many high-quality kitchen appliances. It’s no surprise that their personal coffee machine makes our list of the 10 best. This model is compatible with all brands of single coffee cup pods, including the coveted K-Cup pods.
The Cuisinart is fully programmable with a wide range of features. We like that users can choose from 5 different single-serve cup sizes: 4, 6, 8, 10, and 12 ounces.
The removable water reservoir also has more capacity than other Keurig alternatives. This one can hold 72 ounces of water at a time, so users won’t have to refill the water tank as frequently.
Another convenient feature is the automatic shut off time. After 30 minutes of inactivity, the machine will shut itself off.
This is an energy-saving feature that we like to see in coffee brewing systems. Using the control panel, users can also program preset times to automatically turn on and off.
Key Details
This model measures in at 11 x 9.3 x 12.1 inches and weighs 5 pounds, so it will take up a lot of counter or storage space.
The Cuisinart is very easy to clean unlike other alternative Keurig options. It has a pre-programmed rinse feature to clean the brewing chamber in-between uses. This easy-to-clean feature combined with the charcoal water filter keeps the machine mess-free, which makes for better-tasting coffee.
What really sets this model apart from the competition is the digital display. The backlit LCD screen displays a programmable clock, power on, power off, automatic shut off, brew temperature, and brew size. Users can navigate the menu easily with the up and down arrow keys.
Right below the digital display is a button to brew plain hot water. This is convenient for tea, instant coffee, hot chocolate, and a variety of other hot drinks.
The only drawbacks of the Cuisinart are the bulky size and plastic materials. We’d like to see this model made with stainless steel instead of plastic, though we do like that the plastic is BPA-free. Lastly, it comes with a three year warranty.
Pros
- 72-ounce water reservoir requires fewer refills
- 5 single-serve cup sizes range from 4 to 12 ounces
- 3-year warranty
Cons
- Made of plastic
- More expensive than other Keurig alternatives
- Takes up a lot of counter space
3. Mr. Coffee Mini Brew Coffe Maker
Coffee lovers have argued that coffee brewed with fresh water tastes better. If this is true, then the Mr. Coffee brews some of the freshest coffee available.
This model uses a “pour-in, brew out” method that many single-serve coffee makers utilize. The amount of coffee brewed per serving is dependent on how much water is available in the water reservoir. You can brew up to 10 ounces per serving with this machine.
This model is compatible with all K-Cups as well as reusable filters. Mr. Coffee includes one free reusable pod with each model, so users can choose between disposable pods and coffee grounds.
Key Details
While this model accommodates larger coffee mugs, it’s still a compact option. The measurements are modest at just 7.4 x 11.8 x 14.5 inches. However, this is a heavy machine since it weighs 5 pounds. The heavy weight may be a drawback for some.
One feature we really like is the removable drip tray. This tray is adjustable to accommodate coffee cups of various sizes. For larger coffee mugs, its best to remove the drip tray. This feature also keeps the machine clean since it collects stray drops of coffee.
Another potential limitation is the smaller brew size. Most Keurig alternatives brew up to 12 ounces, but this machine maxes out at 10 ounces. Lastly, it comes with a one year warranty.
Pros
- Removable drip tray makes clean-up easy
- Brews up to 10 ounces per serving
- Water is fresh with each use
Cons
- Largest cup size is only 10 ounces
- Weighs 5 pounds.
- 1-year warranty only
4. Best Budget Pick- CHULUX Single Serve Coffee Maker Brewer
If you’re on a tight budget, then consider the CHULUX as a cheaper version of Keurig. It’s a fraction of the price of a Keurig with almost all of the same functions and features.
Most importantly, it’s compatible with nearly every brand of single-serve coffee pods. It works with all Keurig brand of K-Cups or you can use a reusable pod with your favorite coffee grounds.
The CHULUX is made of BPA-free plastic. It’s also been tested for safety by independent labs. A premium feature that we wouldn’t expect to see in a budget-friendly model is automatic shut off. However, the CHULUX powers off after brewing is finished to save on energy.
Part of what makes this product one of our best picks is that anyone can use it. There are no buttons or confusing directions. Simply insert the coffee pod, turn the safety lock, and close the lever. Then, the coffee automatically starts brewing.
Key Details
This is one of the most compact coffee makers on our list. It weighs less than 3 pounds and measures only 7.5 x 4.3 x 9.8 inches. With these dimensions, you can have one in your kitchen, office, dorm, classroom, or RV.
The CHULUX also brews a very smooth cup of coffee. A filter basket prevents loose grounds from creating a mess. This also prevents murky, bitter-tasting coffee.
There are some drawbacks, though. Most Keurig alternatives have pre-programmed cup sizes. This model determines cup size based on how much water is added to the water tank.
You can make up to 12 ounces of coffee at a time. Therefore, the water tank can only hold 12 ounces. Another limitation is that it’s not as quick to brew as other models. It takes about 3 minutes to heat up and another 1-2 minutes to brew. It comes with a one year warranty.
Pros
- Budget-friendly
- Easy to use
- Space-saving design
Cons
- Only 1-year warranty
- Takes 3-5 minutes to brew coffee
- Water tank capacity is only 12 ounces
5. Mixpresso Single Serve K-Cup Coffee Maker
Mixpresso considers their machine a “smart” coffee maker. Not only is it compatible with the popular and easy-to-find K-Cups, it’s also simple to use and energy efficient.
One feature we love to see in coffee makers is automatic shut off. This helps save on your electricity bill.
In addition, it’s more environmentally friendly to use less energy. After 2 hours of inactivity, the Mixpresso turns itself off automatically.
This coffee maker also has a large 45-ounce water reservoir. This is a convenient feature to have if you have a family of coffee drinkers. One tank gets you at least 6 cups of coffee before you need to refill it
Family members will also enjoy the 5 different cup sizes to choose from. Each member of your family can choose from 4, 6, 8, 10, or 12 ounces depending on how strong you prefer your coffee.
Key Details
This machine is not as small as other models. It’s on the larger side measuring in at 13.5 x 6.5 x 11 inches and weighing over 7 pounds. However, it is made with high-quality, durable materials. The plastic is BPA-free and the materials are FDA-approved for safety and quality.
Brew time varies significantly depending on the coffee machine. We’ve seen coffee pots that take 10 minutes, Keurig alternatives that take up to 5 minutes, and some that only take 1 minute.
The Mixpresso beats out all the competition as the fastest brewing Keurig alternative coffee machine. In just 30 seconds, this model brews a delicious cup of coffee.
This model also fits most coffee mugs, even the larger ones. If you like tall cups of coffee, then you’ll like the removable drip tray feature. This allows you to fit coffee mugs that are 7.5 inches tall.
Since this machine fits large coffee mugs and has a large water tank, it’s not as compact as other models. While it’s not space-saving, this is a durable and reasonably priced Keurig alternative. Lastly, it comes with a one year warranty.
Pros
- Quick 30 second brew time is convenient
- 45-ounce water tank requires fewer refills
- Automatic shut off feature is energy saving
Cons
- Not space-saving
- Weighs 7 pounds
- 1-year warranty only
6. Hamilton Beach The Scoop Single Serve Coffee Maker
This Hamilton Beach coffee maker does it all: scoops the coffee, makes coffee, and shuts off automatically. It’s a fully automatic single-serve machine that is easy to use and allows you to brew your favorite ground coffee.
The permanent filter acts as a scoop and measuring up. You can scoop up your ground coffee, place the scoop back on the coffee maker and start brewing. You get peace of mind knowing that the coffee maker automatically shuts off after brewing.
The Hamilton Beach single serve coffee maker allows you full control over brew strength. This is all dependent on how much water is in the water reservoir. You can add up to 12 ounces of water to the machine.
The adjustable stand is great for brewing a standard 8 ox cup of coffee or up to a 14 oz coffee. You can fit a 7″ tall travel mug under the spigot as well.
This machine is eco friendly, allowing you to skip the plastic pods and reuse the filter. YOu will save money and help reduce waste.
Key Details
Due to its compact size, this is one of the best models for people with limited storage space. It’s only 6.7 x 8.35 x 8.67 inches and 5 pounds.
It’s made of FDA-approved, stainless steel which gives it a sleek, modern look that is also durable.
With this product, you can enjoy your favorite ground coffee without needing yo brew an entire pot. The single serve scoop is convenient and very easy to use.
Pros
- No k cups or pods needed
- Brew various size coffees
- Adjustable cup holder stand
Cons
- Splashes when brewing which requires a taller cup
- Need to use coarsely ground coffee so it doesn’t go through filter
- Water does not reach boiling temperatures so coffee is warm rather than hot
7. Best Budget Pick- Elite Gourmet Personal Single-Serve Compact Coffee Maker
This Elite Gourmet coffee maker is powerful and compact. It’s also made with high-quality materials that are BPA-free and FDA-approved.
The Elite Gourmet single serve coffee maker brews a perfect 14 oz cup of coffee in just 60 seconds. The small size of the machine is perfect for taking with you on the go. Pack it in your bag to bring on vacation or just keep it on the counter at home. The clean design will keep you kitchen looking organized and functional.
You can also use ground coffee rather than k-cups, allowing you to make your favorite coffee shop coffees. The Elite Gourmet comes with a removable filter basket that is easy to clean and dishwasher-safe.
The one touch operation is very easy to use. You can just click, brew and go.
Key Details
While the Elite Gourmet is a compact model measuring only 6.88 x 5.11 x 9.64 inches and weighing just 2 pounds, it can fit tall coffee cups and travel mugs.
This machine includes a 14 oz travel mug that fits perfectly under the spigot.
If you grind your own coffee with a coffee grinder, then you’ll be happy to know that you can grind your own coffee and brew single servings with the Elite Gourmet model. This is an eco friendly and convenient way to brew your coffee at home.
The automatic shut-off feature is perfect for those on the go. YOu never have to worry about leaving the coffee pot on!
Pros
- Brews in 60 seconds
- Comes with a stainless steel travel mug.
- Uses coffee grounds rather than pods
Cons
- Small water tank capacity can only hold enough for one cup
- There is no off button.
- Need to use a tall mug to prevent splashing
8. Famiworths Single Serve Coffee Maker
This Faimsworth Single Serve Coffee Maker model is a great option for those looking for an easy to use machine that still offers two sizes of coffee. The small single serve coffee maker uses k cups which gives you lots and lots of coffee options.
The coffee maker has a brew control feature that lets you select the strength of your coffee. It brews the coffee to a perfect 170 degrees F, the ideal temperature for a hot coffee.
The Faimsworth Single Serve Coffee Maker is also just as versatile as a Keurig machine. It has additional parts depending on if you brew with K-Cups or with a reusable filter. It brews in just 3 minutes, giving you a hot cup of coffee quite quickly.
Key Details
The dimensions are some of the most compact that we’ve seen: 5 x 9 x 12 inches. It’s also lightweight at just 2.64 pounds. You can easily pack this on your travels or store it easily in the cabinet or on the counter.
One of the major pros of this machine is the sleek and ergonomic design. It’s a thin model. So squeezing it in between your other appliances is easy. Plus, it’s made with stainless steel which boosts quality and displays nicely.
One area where there’s room for improvement is the water tank. The cup size is determined by how much water is in the tank. So you must refill it frequently and carefully. It also comes with a one year warranty.
Pros
- Two sizes of coffee
- Self clean function
- Select brew strength
Cons
- Need to use tall mug to prevent splashes
- Not as durable as other machines
- Pod area often gets stuck
9. Hamilton Beach FlexBrew Coffee Maker
If you want the best of both worlds—a traditional coffee pot and a Keurig substitute—the Hamilton Beach FlexBrew is a great option. This coffee maker is uniquely designed to brew both a carafe of coffee or a single cup at a time.
The single-serve side is compatible with K-Cups. This model includes a brew basket that acts like a reusable single-serve filter. So you can brew your favorite coffee grounds one cup at a time.
It takes approximately 3 minutes to brew using the single-serve side. It’s energy efficient because the water only heats when you’re ready to brew.
The carafe side has some premium features that come in handy when you want to brew an entire pot. It has a 12-cup capacity which is great when having company over.
Key Details
This model measures 13.7 x 11.4 x 12.2 inches and weighs 13 pounds. It’s one of the larger ones on our list but worth it if you have the counter space.
The Hamilton Beach also has a permanent filter to eliminate the need for disposable paper filters. This saves on money and is more eco-friendly. Additionally, this model also shuts off after being idle for 2 hours, which is an energy-efficient feature we love to see.
The carafe side of this coffee maker also has several programmable options. You just use the buttons on the left to program your preferred brew strength, set brew time 24 hours in advance, and keep the pot warm for 2 hours.
Coffee pots are known to take up quite a bit of counter space. This model is packed with features, including both a carafe and single-serve function. Therefore, it’s dimensions aren’t space-saving. It also comes with only a one year warranty.
Pros
- Brews single-serve and 12-cup carafe
- Auto shut-off feature saves electricity
- 5 different single-serve cup sizes
Cons
- More expensive than other options
- Weighs 13 pounds
- Only 1 year warranty
10. EZBASICS Single Serve Coffee Maker
The EZBASICS is a versatile machine that’s suitable for all different types of pods or ground coffee. The compatibility with reusable coffee pods means that it works with any brand of coffee grounds so you can use your favorites.
The water tank is clearly labeled with ounce markers so you can fill the machine with the exact amount of water you’d like. This gives you the correctly sized coffee at the perfect strength.
The coffee maker has an automatic shut off feature and over heat prevention. The removable drip tray is easy to clean and catches any drips. You can brew a great cup of coffee in under 4 minutes.
Key Details
The EZBASICS is also energy-saving. It shuts off automatically when it’s not in use. In addition, it weighs just 4.3 pounds and measures 8.7 x 5.1 x 1.02 inches.
This is one of the slower brewing machines and takes 4 full minutes to brew coffee. The reusable filter is nice and the fact that you can use any kind of pods is a big plus.
The adjustable stand is quite nice and prevents splashing. The visual water reserve is easy to fill and gives you the perfect amount of coffee.
Pros
- Uses all types of pods
- Energy saving design
- Compact size
Cons
- Only makes up to a 10 oz cup
- Long 4 minute brew time
- No auto clean feature
Keurig Alternatives Buying Guide
Buying a coffee maker requires time and research. There’s an overwhelming amount of models to choose from and each one has different features.
To make things easier, we researched the best alternatives to Keurig on the market to eliminate this overwhelm. Below are some factors you should consider before buying your Keurig alternative.
How to Select the Best Keurig Alternative
The main function of a Keurig machine, and therefore the Keurig substitutes, is to brew single-serving sizes of barista-worthy coffee from home.
In addition, a good personal coffee maker should be quick, versatile, and durable. Bonus points if it’s energy-efficient, too.
Depending on your needs, here are the characteristics that may affect which model is best for you.
Single serving sizes
This method of brewing coffee takes the pressure out of making an entire pot. Instead, you can brew one cup of coffee at a time. This is perfect if there’s only one coffee drinker in your household or if everyone prefers different types of coffee.
The alternatives on our list have this single-serve feature. Some of them also have a dual function where you can choose between a single cup of coffee or an entire pot.
Pre-programmed cup sizes
There’s nothing more convenient than having various cup sizes to choose from. It’s even better when those cup sizes are pre-programmed onto the machine. All you have to do is press a button to choose which cup size you want to brew.
For instance, the Cuisinart, has 5 pre-programmed cup sizes. This feature is very user-friendly and adds an element of convenience.
Not all brands have this feature, though. Some models, like the CHULUX, base the serving size on how much water is available in the water tank. To use this feature, you must measure out the water and fill the tank.
The machine will then brew a cup of coffee equal to the amount of water in the reservoir. This is less convenient but still gives you control over how large your cup of coffee will be.
Versatility
A coffee maker should excel at its main purpose which is brewing hot single-serve cups of coffee. However, there are different ways to go about executing that purpose. Some of these ways include using coffee pods and reusable filters. A machine should be versatile to meet the needs of the user.
Compatible with K-Cup pods
The most popular maker of single-serve coffee pods is Keurig. You can find Keurig’s brand of coffee pods, called K-Cups, in almost every grocery store and online as well.
K-Cups can also be more affordable than other brands of coffee pods. For the accessibility and affordability, good Keurig alternatives should be compatible with K-Cup pods. Fortunately, all our 10 best picks are compatible.
Compatible with reusable filters
Reusable coffee pods are usually shaped like K-Cups. Therefore, most Keurig alternatives will be able to use them. They’re also easy to use, eco-friendly, and a cheaper alternative to K-Cups.
You can use a reusable coffee pod like you would disposable coffee filters. Simply pack in coffee grounds and insert the reusable pod into the coffee machine. You can buy coffee grounds or grind your own coffee beans.
Most of our recommended products are compatible with reusable pods. Some even include reusable filters for free. For instance, the Homia comes with 3 free reusable pods.
High-quality construction
One complaint that some Keurig users have is that the machine wears easily. Our recommendations are durable and sturdy enough to last you several years. Plus, a good warranty should put your mind at ease about quality. For instance, the Cuisinart comes with a 3-year warranty.
BPA-Free
Like the Keurig, most single-serve coffee makers are made with plastic. Many of our top picks, such as the Mixpresso, are made with high-quality plastic that’s BPA-free.
As many conscious consumers are aware, BPA is a chemical that leaches into food and drinks. It’s been known to pose certain health risks. So consumers are often advised to shop BPA-free when available. Other BPA-free options on our list include the Homia, Aicok, and more.
Third-party tested
There’s a reassurance that comes with products that are independently tested. It’s a way for companies to get unbiased and third-party results regarding safety and quality.
One way to get a third-party’s stamp of approval is getting UL certification and ETL certification. Mueller Ultima and CHULUX are examples on our list that have been third-party tested for safety and quality.
Quick Brew Time
A standard coffee pot can take around 10 minutes to brew. If you have busy mornings, then quick brew time may be an important feature for you.
Some brands on our Keurig alternatives list can take up to 5 minutes because the machine must first heat up the water. However, there are some options that are much quicker. The average brew time of a Keurig alternative is around 3 minutes. Some picks, like the Mueller Ultima, only require 1 minute.
If you’re looking for an even faster brew time, Mixpresso and Aicok both brew in approximately 30 seconds. This is the fastest brew time that we’ve seen.
Automatic Shut Off
Energy efficiency is a feature we like to see in any automatic machine. Since coffee makers are appliances most people use every day, having automatic shut off is preferred. It’s also a great safety feature as well.
Some brands on our list with this convenient feature include: Cuisinart, CHULUX, and more. Depending on the model, the machine will turn itself off immediately after use or up to 2 hours of inactivity.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do Keurig alternatives use K-Cup pods?
A: Yes and no. All 10 of our Keurig alernatives are compatible with K-Cups. However, other models on the market may not be compatible with them. If this is important to you, we recommend you refer back to our list above. Even if a machine is compatible with K-Cups that doesn’t mean you’re required to use them. You can use another brand of coffee pods or even a reusable coffee pod.
Q: What Keurig alternative is best for office use?
A: We recommend a machine that has a large water tank, multiple cup sizes to choose from, and quick brew time. The Mixpresso meets all these criteria. So it’s a great option for the office.
Q: Which Keurig alternative is easiest to clean?
A: Keurig users report that loose coffee grounds make the machine get very dirty. In addition, the opening is too small to clean easily. So we recommend The HAMSWAN as an excellent option if you want a machine that’s easy to clean. In fact, the HAMSWAN has a self-cleaning feature, so you never have to worry about cleaning up stubborn coffee messes again.
Conclusion
The days of brewing an entire coffee pot only to find that most of it goes to waste are long over. The popularity of the Keurig single-serve coffee maker changed the way that we buy and make coffee.
However, Keurig isn’t the only (or best) option when it comes to brewing one cup of coffee at a time. There are dozens of alternatives to Keurig on the market and we’ve selected the ten best in our opinion.
Our best pick, the Mueller Ultima, is a prime example of a premium coffee maker. It’s user friendly and compatible with all K-Cups. With 45 ounces of water tank space, it doesn’t need to be refilled frequently.
We also like that the Mueller has three different brew sizes and has received both UL and ETL certifications. Most importantly, its rapid brew technology has your coffee made in less than a minute.
We hope that after reading our detailed keurig alternative reviews and comprehensive buying guide, you’ll have all the information you need to select the best keurig alternative that is perfect for your kitchen.
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