7 Best Small Coffee Makers For Minimalist Living

Looking for an efficient small coffee maker but confused about the right pick? Here comes the hand-picked list of the best small coffee makers that can render a memorable coffee experience in every brew.

In the words of Bil Keane, the renowned American cartoonist – “hugs are like a boomerang – you get it right back.” In the world of coffee connoisseurs, the saying may go far beyond those regular ones and relate to coffee; as for every coffeecionado, joe is the most-awaited and best-loved liquid hug to the brain. So, when you know that a few cups of joe in a day keeps the stress away, you must be looking for some quick fixes to prepare them whenever the craving kicks in.

Here I’m with a narrowed-down list of the best small coffee makers that are perfect for your compact countertop. These gizmos are efficient, easy to use, versatile, and affordable, making them the epitome of space-saving and convenience. Here we go!

Note: If you are still not sure about buying a small coffee machine, consider looking at our list of Best Coffee Makers or more specifically Best Drip Coffee Makers to compare your decision.

Best Small Coffee Makers – 7 Top Picks

1. BLACK+DECKER CM0700B 5-Cup Coffee Maker – Overall Best

Last update on 2024-10-11 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Topping the list, the Black+Decker CM0700B 5-cup coffee maker in a single word is impressive. The utterly compact, simple, and easy-to-use outlook of this coffee maker sets an example of how a small coffee maker should be. The gizmo allows you to enjoy quickly brewed coffee without any of those bells and whistles – there’s just a single button for on and off, and that’s all!

It boasts a sneak-a-cup feature which allows you to steal a cup mid-brewing. Though you might find this feature in other coffee makers, too, the best part with the CM0700B is that it doesn’t drip at all after you grab your cuppa joe, thus keeping the place mess-free. The lighted on/off switch adds more convenience. Guess what? The user manual it comes with has only three pages of instructions – evidencing how easy it is to use, clean, and maintain. 

The glass carafe is ergonomically designed and will be filled with great-tasting coffee made by this cute little coffee maker. Additionally, the filter basket is easily accessible and dishwasher friendly. If you are worried about the temperature of the brewed coffee as it’s a small coffee maker, be rest assured that the coffee is going to be as hot as it should be. 

What we liked

• Effortless and easy to use
• Lighted on/off switch to let you know when it’s own
• Sneak-a-cup feature to grab a cup mid-brew
• Easy to clean with a dishwasher-friendly filter basket

What we don’t like

• Being a small coffee maker, there’s no control over brew settings
• Needs paper filters

Verdict

Overall, it’s fairly priced, well-performing, compact, easy to use, and a durable 5-cup coffee maker that will probably leave you with no complaints. Besides, with over 1000+ 5-star ratings on Amazon, the BLACK+DECKER CM0700B evidences the satisfaction level of its users.

2. Cuisinart DCC-450BK – Best Small Coffee Maker With Thermal Carafe

Last update on 2024-10-11 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Cuisinart is a name that hardly needs any introduction in the kitchen appliances segment, and when it comes to coffee makers in specific, it has produced pieces of brilliance. The Cuisinart DCC-450BK is yet another coffeemaker from the brand that is meant to gratify your coffee cravings without occupying much space or wastage of beans that one could probably face if trying to brew for self in a larger machine.

Talking about its convenience, it comes with a 4-cup thermal steel carafe which features a knuckle guard and dripless pour spout to help you pour coffee readily. Besides being shatterproof, the carafe is meant to last for the long run, and many customers claim that it does. Additionally, with this gizmo, you won’t be deprived of the beloved feature ‘brew-pause,’ which allows you to sneak a cup mid-brew. 

The sleek and brushed chrome finishing outlook of this coffee maker is capable enough to enhance the aesthetics of your kitchen. If you are someone who usually has a rush in the morning, this black beauty will brew a full pot of coffee in around 8 minutes, followed by a 30 minutes auto shut-off for safety. 

You might find the machine making a little noise, but that’s just for the first minute when the water flows through. However, be rest assured that you are going to enjoy delectable cuppa joe with this little jewel. 

What we liked

• Compact and sturdy built
• Performs fast
• Auto shut-off
• Avant-garde thermal steel carafe
• Comes with a very affordable price tag

What we don’t like

• Doesn’t come with a filter
• A bit difficult to fit regular filter size; you will need to fold it in. 

Verdict

In a one-liner, if you are looking for an inexpensive and sturdy coffee maker for brewing up to 4cups, look no further than the Cuisinart DCC-450BK coffee maker. 

3. Mr. Coffee 2134286 – Best Small 5-Cup Coffee Maker

Last update on 2024-10-16 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Simplicity and efficiency are the terms that define Mr. Coffee 2134286 the best. Be it your kitchen countertop or office with very little space to accommodate a coffee maker, this one is going to take its place with ease. It comes with two of the favorite color options – black and white, and with its minimal footprint, it does look impressive. 

The gadget has a one-button operation which makes it very easy to use for almost anyone. The carafe is ergonomically designed and boasts ounce markings making it easier for you to measure. However, there have been complaints stating that this coffee maker is somewhat difficult to use for left-handed people. 

Talking about features, you will get to enjoy grab-a-cup functionality for sipping coffee even before the brewing process is completed. Additionally, you can easily track the water level of this coffee maker with an easy-to-view reservoir. Therefore, with an ounce-marked carafe and the ease of gauging water level, one can brew exactly the amount of coffee that they need. 

By using the simple mechanical switch, you can turn the machine on/off. The switch boasts a power indicator light which will remind you to turn the machine off in case you forget to. The overall capacity of Mr. Coffee 2134286 is brewing 25oz. Of coffee, i.e., perfect two 12oz. Cups, or in case you travel a lot, the capacity is enough to fill your travel mug. 

What we liked

• Easy to use, clean, and operate
• Measurements become easy with an ounce-marked carafe
• Simplistic and compact design

What we don’t like

• Left-handed users complain about the difficulty to use 
• Lacks auto shut-off 

Verdict

In a one-liner, if you are looking to bring home a coffee maker that doesn’t give you a headache but just delectable coffee with a minimal footprint – you can consider grabbing the Mr. Coffee 2134286 5-cup coffee maker. 

4. Keurig K-Mini Coffee Maker – Best Small Keurig Coffee Maker

Last update on 2024-10-11 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

One of the best-selling products from the comrade of the elite brand Keurig, the K-Mini coffee maker is absolutely a great fit for most households and budgets. Compatible with regular k-cups, this gizmo turns you coffee-ready with just a touch of a button. It weighs just 4.6 pounds and excels in serving hot and delectable coffee in a jiffy. 

If you are someone who is fond of colors, you will be delighted with its array of color options starting from dusty rose and oasis to poppy red, studio gray, and of course, black. This is something you are not likely to find with any other coffee maker at this price point. It has a transparent 12-ounce water reservoir and boasts cord storage at the back to ease the job in case you need to transport it. 

A power button, a brew button, and a blinking light to indicate that it’s ready to brew – that’s all you need to brew your cuppa joe with this machine. However, you won’t be able to control the cup size. To brew the amount of coffee you need, fill the reservoir with an equivalent amount of water, between 6-12 ounces, and the machine will brew it all. 

A feature that many of you might like, especially travelers, is the drip tray which, when removed, can accommodate travel mugs up to 7 inches. Besides, the removable drip tray makes it convenient to clean the machine as well. But keep in mind that there’s no cleaning or descaling indicator, which means you will have to remember when you last performed the two processes. 

To help save energy, the Keurig K-mini comes with an auto shut-off feature that turns off the machine just after 90 seconds of your last brew. In a nutshell, it’s simply the best small coffee maker if hot and tasty coffee is your primary goal. 

What we liked

• Compact design
• Various color options to meet the aesthetics of any household 
• Compatible with every k-cups
• Brews delicious coffee in a jiffy
• Inexpensive

What we don’t like

• A bit noisy
• The water reservoir needs to be refilled every time you brew 

Verdict

In a nutshell, it’s simply the best small coffee maker if hot and tasty coffee is your primary goal. It’s simple, agile, amazingly affordable, and it does its job precisely.

You might like: Best Keurig Coffee Machines

5. Gevi 4 Cups Coffee Maker – Best Small Coffee Maker with Warming Plate

Last update on 2024-10-11 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Looking to have a small coffee maker that not only saves space but is well-rounded with cool features? Well, The Gevi 4-Cup maker should be the one on your radar! Though it’s fairly priced and a small coffee maker, it boasts advanced features like a hot plate, auto shut-off, and anti-drip prevention. Besides, with a stainless steel finish, the appliance looks quite alluring. 

When it comes to the overall performance of this coffee maker, it works like a charm and will not leave you with any complaints about the quality of cups it brews. Additionally, the hot plate allows you to keep your coffee warm for as long as 2 hours. What’s likable is that it’s one of the quietest coffee makers; thus, none of the sleeping members in the house will feel disturbed. 

The carafe is made out of borosilicate BPA-free material, and due to its ergonomic design, you will find handling it pretty easy. Additionally, it also boasts overheating protection which means that the carafe won’t heat up if empty. You will have the ability to brew a full pot or a few cups as and when required, and the next time you brew, the machine will remember your previous selection, and just by adding water and pressing a button, you will get your coffee ready. 

What we liked

• Boasts auto shut-off
• Keeps coffee warm for up to 2 hours
• Boil protection 
• Minimal noise
• The stainless steel finish gives it an appealing look 

What we don’t like

• The top opening is too small, which makes pouring water a bit difficult
• Many say that it brews less amount of coffee than expected

Verdict

To conclude, the Gevi 4-cup is the best small coffee maker for individuals or small families with some must-have features and quality brewing. This gizmo barely has any competition based on its offering against the price. 

6. ADIRchef Mini – Best Small Single Serve Coffee Maker

Last update on 2024-10-12 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

The synonym for portability, ADIRchef mini is meant to be your companion wherever you go. Doesn’t matter if you lack space; you can place this coffee maker almost anywhere – it’s that compact. The colorful black, green, orange, red, and sour green gives you a break from those monotonous black, stainless steel, or brown coffee makers, adding more to its beauty. 

The gadget remains consistent and delivers delectable, super-hot coffee each and every time. It comes with an insulated cup that keeps your coffee warm and fits almost every vehicle’s cup holder. Additionally, the 15-ounce stainless steel travel mug which comes along with the coffee maker is sturdy enough to last for a couple of years. 

The usability leaves a positive impression as the one-touch operation makes it hassle-free to brew, followed by the auto shut-off feature. All you need to do is open the top lid, fill coffee grounds and water, and press a button – that’s all, and you will be enjoying your cuppa jew within minutes. To help you save on money and be eco-friendly at the same time, this little genius comes with a permanent filter, omitting the need for using paper filters.

What we liked

• Amazingly lightweight and portable
• Incredible pricing 
• Brews hot and delectable coffee in minutes
• Comes with an array of color options
• Dishwasher safe, thus easy to clean

What we don’t like

• Not compatible with k-cups
• Complaints of water getting stuck between the outer and inner layer

Verdict

Weighing just 1.3 pounds with a dimension of 6.7 x 5.1 x 10.1 inches along with a free travel mug, the ADIRchef Mini is probably the best small coffee maker for households lacking space, travelers, or those who love sipping coffee on their way to work. Though the brand is new to the market, it seems they are trying to deliver avant-garde products at a steal price. 

7. Elite Gourmet EHC111A – Best Personal Coffee Maker

Last update on 2024-10-13 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Adorable, easy to operate, and super compact – the Elite Gourmet EHC111A is an excellent choice for those who don’t want to be standing around 5-10 minutes for their coffee to brew. Not everyone is willing to spend a chunk of money to enjoy delicious cups of coffee in the morning, and that’s where this machine kicks in with an immensely affordable price tag. 

Note: It brews coffee in under 60 seconds. Now, this is something that has probably started pushing you to count on this machine, especially if your family consists of older members. Besides, it comes with features like auto shut-off for conserving energy and a thermal reset switch to avoid overheating. The reusable filter ensures that you don’t face a situation where you run out of paper filters and thus, wait to brew until you bring one. 

The Elite Gourmet EHC111A comes with a tall thermal travel mug which is insulated both on the interior and exterior sides to keep your coffee warm for longer durations. In case you love tea or have family members who prefer tea, you will have the liberty to use loose-tea leaf and relish tea time. 

What we liked

• Easy to use and clean
• Dishwasher safe
• Brews in under a minute
• Comes with a well-insulated travel mug
• Boasts reusable filter

What we don’t like

• Leaks water at times
• It can accommodate up to 5½ inches of the mug, which is shorter than most standard travel mugs. However, the one it comes with fits well, so you might not get troubled. 

Verdict

If you wish to taste deliciousness within a minute without hitting your pocket hard, the Elite Gourmet EHC111A is likely going to be the best pick for you!

Why a Small Coffee Maker?

Innovations in coffee-making tech have been at their peak in recent years, and small coffee makers are one of the finest examples. Granted, we all love coffee, but that doesn’t necessarily mean that you will have to spend a chunk of your hard-earned money and get big-sized gizmos to help you enjoy a cup of joe. 

Besides, not everyone wants to come across those bells and whistles – all they want is a delectable cup of coffee without any hassle. Many home baristas may not find small coffee makers convincing as it doesn’t allow controlling each and every aspect of brewing a cup of magic. 

However, if it’s just about enjoying excellent coffee rather than delving into the brewing methodology, small coffee makers are indeed the finest pick. Here’s a list of benefits that comes along with a small coffee maker:

Freshness in every cup

Any coffee enthusiast will certainly know that fact – Freshly brewed coffee tastes the best, and this is the greatest advantage of having a small coffee maker. Unlike a pot sitting for hours with small coffee makers, you will be getting 100% fresh coffee each and every time. 

Convenience at its best

Small makers brew straight into a cup or a travel mug, whereas standard coffee makers will brew it in a pot – this convenience is something that conveniences many to choose small coffee makers over the standard ones. Besides, in case you are running late at any point in time, you can grab a cup within minutes with a press of a button.

Savings matter

When you bring a small coffee maker, that means you will be brewing one cup at a time, therefore using less coffee and minimal wastage, thus saving a decent amount of money. On the other hand, if you compare your per cup cost with that of a cafe, you will be saving even more. 

Experimenting becomes exciting

These days, there are loads of specialty coffee and flavors available, out of which you might fall in love with a few. Thus, a small-sized coffee maker enables you to experiment with them easily through different pods or by mixing different cups to invent your own flavor. 

Fewer elements to clean

Of course, with a small coffee maker, you won’t have to come across multiple elements to clean and maintain. This helps save time as there will be fewer stains, mess, and elements to spend time with. 

What to Consider when Buying a Small Coffee Maker

Millions have shifted from traditional large-sized coffee makers to small java makers due to the ease to use, minimal mess, and a few minutes to get their coffee ready. However, even in this segment, no two coffee makers are similar, thus making it mandatory for certain things to consider before bringing a small compact coffee maker home. Mentioned below are the 5 things to consider when planning to buy a small coffee maker-

1. Size of the machine

Typically, these machines are way more compact than those electric dinosaurs; however, the height, weight, and width vary from one brand to another. Therefore, it’s important to check the size of the machine so that you can easily accommodate it in the place where you would love to see it. Besides, if your primary objective to buy a small coffee maker is due to a lack of space, this factor becomes inevitable. 

2. Grinds that the machine uses

Well, some coffee makers might work with various coffee pods, while some might be devoted to their own specialty grinds. Therefore, if you are someone for whom diversity is the spice of life, make sure that you check the compatibility of the coffee maker you are willing to buy. 

3. Adjustable cup size

If you often use a travel mug filled with delicious coffee to enjoy your commute to work or elsewhere, ensure that the coffee maker accommodates the mug size you will probably use. You will find coffee makers having a removable drip tray that helps you brew directly into your mug with ease, and these will probably be your pick. 

4. Checking if the parts are dishwasher friendly 

Agreed, hand washing is not a pleasant task to do for many, thus making it compulsory to check if the coffee maker’s parts are dishwasher friendly. 

5. Water reservoir capacity

The bigger, the better – this applies when you are looking for the water tank capacity of your coffee maker. Though it varies a lot in different coffee makers, you will usually find small coffee makers with a capacity anywhere between 50-85 ounces. This factor may not be that essential if you are buying the machine for your home; however, if it’s for office use, you must pay attention to it unless you are ok with refilling it multiple times. 

Limitations of Small Coffee Makers

Granted, small coffee makers offer several tangible benefits, but they have a few drawbacks though. They typically lack fancier features, including specific brewing temperature and espresso add-ons; thus, you won’t have much control over the brew. Besides, they can make only 2-3 cups of joe at a time. However, their simplistic outlook and streamlined silhouettes for easy storage rationally make up for the said limitations. 

Wrapping up

That’s all, folks! We are sure that after going through the details provided, now you’re very much decided on which small coffee maker you should pick up for quick, easy, and flavorful coffee experiences. Before heading to the purchase, don’t forget to check your requirements well and tally them with the gizmo that you’re going to buy. Hope you’ll enjoy a delightful purchasing experience – good luck!