For coffee lovers, the morning routine often revolves around that perfect cup of joe. Whether you’re the only coffee drinker in the house or catering to a crowd, the ideal coffee maker adapts to your daily needs. Some days call for brewing a full coffee pot to keep you energized throughout the morning, while other times, a single serve cup is all you need to kickstart your day. Instead of investing in multiple coffee machines that hog precious counter space, consider the convenience of a hybrid coffee maker – a machine that seamlessly blends the functionality of a coffee pot and a single serve brewer.
These innovative appliances are designed to handle both single-cup and full-carafe brewing, making them an excellent choice for individuals with varied coffee habits or households with different preferences. Having personally tested numerous coffee makers, I’ve witnessed firsthand how a top-notch dual-brew machine can simplify your coffee routine without compromising on the quality of your brew. To help you discover the best Coffee Pot And Single Serve options, we’ve rigorously researched and tested some of the most popular hybrid models available on the market.
Our Top Picks
Best Overall:
Ninja Specialty Coffee Maker at Amazon $170
Best Keurig:
SALE
Keurig K-Duo Plus Coffee Maker at Amazon $230 $164
Best Splurge:
Breville Precision Brewer Coffee Maker at Amazon $300
Best Budget:
Hamilton Beach 2-Way Programmable Coffee Maker at Amazon $70
Best Coffee and Espresso:
De’Longhi All-in-One Coffee and Espresso Maker at Amazon $320
Best Design:
Braun MultiServe KF9170SI Coffee Maker at Amazon $200
Best Thermal:
OXO Brew 12-Cup Coffee Maker with Single-Serve at Amazon $300
Best with Grinder:
Cuisinart Coffee Center Grind & Brew Plus at Amazon $230
Best Overall
Ninja Specialty Coffee Maker
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PHOTO: Amazon
$170 at Amazon $160 at Wayfair $170 at Home Depot
What We Like
- Versatile brew sizes from single cup to full coffee pot
- Built-in milk frother for specialty drinks
- Consistently strong and flavorful coffee
What We Don’t Like
- Espresso function is not true espresso
Ninja CM407 Specialty Coffee Maker Review
The Ninja Specialty Coffee Maker takes the crown as our top pick due to its exceptional versatility and user-friendly design. Offering six brew sizes, from a single 9.5-ounce cup to a generous 50-ounce coffee pot, it provides remarkable flexibility for any coffee need. Its customizable settings allow you to select from classic, rich, over ice, and specialty brew options, each delivering a consistently bold and satisfying coffee flavor. The clearly labeled buttons make this machine remarkably intuitive and easy to operate.
For those who enjoy milk-based coffee beverages, the integrated frother arm effortlessly creates foam from dairy or non-dairy milk, perfectly complementing the specialty brew setting. While this function produces a concentrated coffee rather than a true espresso shot, it still provides a robust base for crafting delicious cappuccinos and lattes.
We put both the CM401 and CM407 models through rigorous testing. The primary distinction lies in the CM401’s stainless steel carafe and absence of a warming plate, compared to the CM407’s glass carafe. A significant advantage of the CM401 is that all its components are dishwasher-safe, simplifying cleanup.
Although it comes with a higher price tag than a basic drip coffee maker and has a larger footprint, the Ninja Specialty Coffee Maker justifies its cost with its wide range of drink options, consistently strong brews, and ease of use. If you’re seeking a machine that truly does it all – from single serve to full coffee pot and beyond – this is an outstanding choice.
Capacity: 50 ounces | Dimensions: 12 x 15 x 8.8 inches | Brew Sizes: 4 ounces, 9.5 ounces, 11.5 ounces, 14 ounces, 18 ounces, 25 ounces (half carafe), 50 ounces (full carafe)
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PHOTO: The Spruce Eats / Vicky Wasik
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PHOTO: The Spruce Eats / Vicky Wasik
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PHOTO: The Spruce Eats / Vicky Wasik
Best Keurig
Keurig K-Duo Plus Coffee Maker
PHOTO: Amazon
$230 $164 at Amazon $156 at Walmart $200 at Wayfair
What We Like
- Versatile dual brew system: coffee pot and single serve K-Cup
- Adjustable water reservoir for flexible placement
- Space-saving slim design
What We Don’t Like
- Requires hand cleaning of all parts
- Not the best value proposition
Keurig, renowned for its single-serve brewers, demonstrates its versatility with the K-Duo Plus Coffee Maker. This dual coffee machine seamlessly integrates the convenience of K-Cup pods with the option to brew a full coffee pot when needed, offering exceptional flexibility.
A top-loading door allows for easy insertion of K-Cups or a reusable K-Cup filter for single-serve options ranging from 6 to 12 ounces. Adjacent to this, the brew basket accommodates coffee grounds for brewing carafes from 6 to 12 cups. A notable design element is its adjustable water reservoir, which can be positioned at the rear or side, adapting to your kitchen layout. Its slim profile further conserves counter space by combining the single-serve and coffee pot brewing functions into one unit. To brew a single cup, simply place your mug where the carafe would typically sit.
A minor drawback is the requirement to hand wash all components, including the thermal carafe. While it produces a stronger brew than many other Keurig models we’ve tested, it still doesn’t quite match the robustness of a traditional drip coffee pot. Despite not being the most budget-friendly option, the Keurig K-Duo Plus is ideal for those who value the convenience of coffee pods without sacrificing the ability to brew a full pot of coffee.
Capacity: 60 ounces | Dimensions: 15.9 x 7.7 x 14.2 inches | Brew Sizes: 6 ounces, 8 ounces, 10 ounces, 12 ounces, 30 ounces (6 cups), 40 ounces (8 cups), 50 ounces (10 cups), 60 ounces (12 cups)
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PHOTO: The Spruce Eats / Cheyenne Elwell
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PHOTO: The Spruce Eats / Cheyenne Elwell
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PHOTO: The Spruce Eats / Cheyenne Elwell
Best Splurge
Breville Precision Brewer Coffee Maker
PHOTO: Amazon
$300 at Amazon $330 at Sur La Table View on Breville.com
What We Like
- Six pre-set brewing modes for coffee pot and single serve
- Adjustable brew time, temperature, and flow rate for customization
- Pour-over adapter compatibility for manual brewing enthusiasts
- Elegant, high-end aesthetic
What We Don’t Like
- Initial setup can be complex
Breville Precision Brewer Review
For unparalleled customization, the Breville Precision Brewer stands in a league of its own. It expertly handles both single servings and large coffee pots (up to 60 ounces) and boasts six distinct brewing modes: Gold, Fast, Strong, Iced, Cold Brew, and My Brew. The Gold setting adheres to Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) standards, ensuring an optimal cup of coffee every time, eliminating guesswork. For those who enjoy fine-tuning their coffee, the My Brew setting is a standout feature, allowing precise adjustments to brew time, temperature, and flow rate for a truly personalized cup.
A unique aspect of this machine is its pour-over capability. While the pour-over adapter kit is sold separately, it adds a distinctive feature to this automatic coffee maker, enabling specialty-style brewing with minimal effort.
The initial setup and array of customization options might feel overwhelming at first. However, once you become familiar with the settings, the level of control it provides is well worth the learning curve.
The Breville Precision Brewer comes with a 60-ounce glass carafe, and a thermal brushed stainless steel carafe version is also available. In our tests, the stainless steel carafe kept coffee hot for several hours without any flavor degradation. True to Breville’s design philosophy, this coffee maker is both stylish and highly functional, seamlessly integrating into any kitchen. Although a significant investment, its customization options, precision brewing, and 2-year warranty make it a worthwhile choice for serious coffee aficionados looking for a top-tier coffee pot and single serve machine.
Capacity: 60 ounces | Dimensions: 12.7 x 6.7 x 15.7 inches | Brew Sizes: 8 ounces, 12 ounces, 16 ounces, 20 ounces, 30 ounces (6 cups), 40 ounces (8 cups), 50 ounces (10 cups), 60 ounces (12 cups)
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PHOTO: The Spruce Eats / Cheyenne Elwell
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PHOTO: The Spruce Eats / Cheyenne Elwell
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PHOTO: The Spruce Eats / Cheyenne Elwell
Ready to Upgrade Your Morning Java? These Are the 10 Best High-End Coffee Makers
Best Budget
Hamilton Beach 2-Way Programmable Coffee Maker
PHOTO: Amazon
$70 at Amazon $112 $107 at Walmart $70 at Wayfair
What We Like
- Simple and intuitive operation for coffee pot and single serve
- Single-serve side accommodates travel mugs
- Convenient pause-and-pour feature
What We Don’t Like
- Non-removable water reservoirs make refilling slightly inconvenient
As its name implies, this 2-way brewer efficiently brews both single servings and full coffee pots, depending on the side of the machine you utilize. Similar to many dual coffee makers, one side is designed for single servings up to 14 ounces and can accommodate a travel mug, while the other side features a 12-cup glass carafe with its own brew basket and separate water reservoir. Both reservoirs are non-removable, which can pose a slight challenge for refilling if the machine is positioned under overhead cabinets.
The overall user experience is straightforward, with clearly marked controls that simplify operation. It includes several programmable features, such as brew strength adjustments, a 24-hour timer, and a pause-and-serve function that allows you to pour a cup mid-brew.
Despite its array of features, this machine offers exceptional value for a dual brewer, making it a budget-friendly entry point into the world of versatile coffee pot and single serve machines.
Capacity: 60 ounces | Dimensions: 11 x 12.2 x 13.9 inches | Brew Sizes: Up to 14 ounces (single serve), up to 60 ounces (carafe)
Best Coffee and Espresso
De’Longhi All-in-One Coffee and Espresso Maker
PHOTO: Amazon
$320 $289 at Amazon $300 at Target $300 at Wayfair
What We Like
- Combines espresso and drip coffee pot brewing in one machine
- Rapid-heating steam wand for milk frothing
- Easy cleaning process
What We Don’t Like
- Drip tray requires frequent emptying
Typically, brewing both espresso and drip coffee at home necessitates two separate machines, consuming valuable counter space. However, the De’Longhi All-in-One Coffee and Espresso Maker elegantly solves this problem. It merges a 10-cup coffee pot for traditional drip coffee with an espresso setup and a steam wand for lattes and cappuccinos, providing both options in a single, sleek design.
A standout feature is its steam wand, which heats up swiftly and produces rich, velvety milk froth. For multitasking enthusiasts, it can even brew a pot of coffee and pull espresso shots simultaneously, particularly useful for crafting a “red eye” – a coffee with an added espresso shot.
Cleaning is relatively straightforward, although the drip tray needs regular emptying to prevent overflow. Overall, this machine is an excellent choice for those desiring the convenience of both espresso-based drinks and classic drip coffee from a single appliance.
Capacity: 10 cups | Dimensions: 11 x 14.5 x 12.8 inches | Brew Sizes: Up to 47 ounces (carafe)
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PHOTO: The Spruce Eats / Vicky Wasik
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PHOTO: The Spruce Eats / Vicky Wasik
Best Design
Braun MultiServe KF9170SI Coffee Maker
PHOTO: Amazon
$200 $180 at Amazon $180 at Walmart $180 at Wayfair
What We Like
- Space-efficient slim design for coffee pot and single serve
- SCA certified for optimal brewing performance
- Multiple brew sizes from 5 oz single serve to 10-cup coffee pot
- Integrated hot water dispenser
What We Don’t Like
- Slightly higher price point
Counter space is often a premium, especially when choosing a dual coffee maker. The Braun MultiServe addresses this with its slim, multi-functional design, seamlessly blending versatility with exceptional coffee quality. It’s thoughtfully designed for ease of use and incorporates a high-caliber brewing system.
This machine holds the SCA’s Golden Cup Standard certification, ensuring optimal brewing parameters, including precise temperature, timing, and solubility. Users can customize their brew with settings for iced coffee, strong, and mild options.
The Braun MultiServe accommodates both single cups and full coffee pots, offering seven brew sizes from a 5-ounce single serve to a full 10-cup carafe. The single-serve function utilizes the same brew area as the carafe – simply replace the carafe with your mug as needed. It’s worth noting that this machine uses ground coffee and does not support coffee pods.
An added bonus is the built-in hot water dispenser with six temperature settings, ideal for various teas and instant beverages, ranging from 158°F for white tea to 203°F for herbal infusions, ensuring the correct temperature for each drink.
Considering its intuitive controls, versatile drink options, elegant design, and 3-year warranty, the Braun MultiServe presents excellent value for its price.
Capacity: 50 ounces | Dimensions: 7.1 x 13 x 15 inches | Brew Sizes: 5 ounces, 8 ounces, 12 ounces, 16 ounces, 20 ounces, 25 ounces (half carafe), 50 ounces (full carafe)
Best Thermal
OXO Brew 12-Cup Coffee Maker with Single-Serve
PHOTO: Amazon
$300 $280 at Amazon $300 at Oxo
What We Like
- Compact design for a coffee pot and single serve combo
- Interchangeable brew baskets for optimal brewing of different sizes
- Consistently high coffee quality
What We Don’t Like
- Higher price point
- Requires different filter sizes for each brew basket
The OXO Brew 12-Cup Coffee Maker excels in several key aspects, including design, brewing performance, drink versatility, and especially its thermal carafe. In our evaluations, the carafe performed exceptionally well, justifying the machine’s premium price. After eight hours, coffee temperature remained at a consistent 140 degrees, showcasing impressive heat retention. Unlike glass carafes with warming plates that can alter coffee flavor over time, thermal carafes better preserve the original taste. Taste tests at 1, 4, and 8-hour intervals confirmed consistent richness and balance.
This machine adapts to varying brew sizes with interchangeable brew baskets. The smaller basket is designed for one to four cups, while the larger one accommodates up to 12 cups. Both fit seamlessly into the same compartment and utilize appropriately sized paper filters, although smaller filters were slightly less common. After 30 days of testing, coffee quality remained consistently excellent regardless of batch size, indicating the machine effectively adjusts brew time and coffee-to-water ratio.
A minor drawback is the non-removable water reservoir, which can make refilling and cleaning slightly inconvenient. However, the machine’s slim, compact design is a significant advantage, especially for a dual coffee maker.
Capacity: 60 ounces | Dimensions: 12.3 x 8 x 14.5 inches | Brew Sizes: Up to 20 ounces (single serve), up to 60 ounces (carafe)
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PHOTO: The Spruce Eats / Derek Rose
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PHOTO: The Spruce Eats / Derek Rose
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PHOTO: The Spruce Eats / Derek Rose
Best with Grinder
Cuisinart Coffee Center Grind & Brew Plus
PHOTO: Amazon
$230 at Amazon $230 at Walmart $230 at Wayfair
What We Like
- All-in-one design with grinder for coffee pot and single serve
- Compatible with both coffee pods and ground coffee
- Removable grinder for easy cleaning
What We Don’t Like
- Blade grinder is less consistent than burr grinders
- Slower brew time for full coffee pots
For those who prioritize the freshest possible coffee, the Cuisinart Coffee Center Grind and Brew Plus elevates the dual coffee maker experience with its integrated grinder. Like many hybrid machines, it features both a single-serve side and a carafe brewing side. The single-serve function brews 8 to 12 ounces per cup, with sufficient clearance for travel mugs when the drip tray is removed. However, the grinder is exclusively for full coffee pots and does not operate for single servings.
On the carafe side, the machine includes a dedicated water reservoir and a compartment for whole beans, freshly grinding them just before brewing. While it lacks built-in bean storage, this can be advantageous – storing beans in their original packaging or a coffee bean canister helps maintain freshness until brewing.
The Coffee Center Grind and Brew Plus supports both coffee pods and K-Cups, and its carafe holds up to 60 ounces. The primary downside is its blade grinder, which is less consistent than a burr grinder and can result in a slightly more bitter brew. However, blade grinders are generally more affordable, contributing to a lower overall machine cost.
Cleaning is simple, as the blade grinder is fully removable for easy washing. We found that coffee brewed consistently hot at 188°F, delivering strong flavor for both single cups and full pots. The only notable drawback was a slightly longer than average brew time for a full coffee pot, approximately nine minutes.
Capacity: 60 ounces | Dimensions: 10.8 x 11.7 x 15.9 inches | Brew Sizes: 8 ounces, 10 ounces, 12 ounces, up to 60 ounces (full carafe)
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PHOTO: The Spruce Eats / Russell Kilgore
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PHOTO: The Spruce Eats / Russell Kilgore
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PHOTO: The Spruce Eats / Russell Kilgore
We Found the Best Manual Coffee Grinders for Consistent Coffee at Home
Why Choose a Coffee Pot with Single Serve Functionality?
Opting for a coffee pot with single serve functionality, often termed a dual coffee maker or combo coffee maker, offers numerous benefits for modern coffee drinkers:
- Versatility: The primary advantage is adaptability. Whether you need a quick single cup in the morning or a full pot for guests or a workday, these machines cover all bases.
- Space Saving: Instead of cluttering your counter with two separate appliances, a dual coffee maker consolidates both functions into one unit, saving valuable space.
- Cost-Effective: Purchasing one dual machine is typically more economical than buying a separate single-serve brewer and a full-pot coffee maker.
- Variety: Many models offer a range of brew sizes and strengths, catering to individual preferences and different types of coffee beverages, from regular drip coffee to specialty drinks.
- Convenience: For households with varying coffee needs or individuals who enjoy both single cups and pots of coffee, a dual coffee maker provides ultimate convenience and flexibility.
How to Choose the Right Coffee Pot and Single Serve Coffee Maker
Selecting the best coffee pot and single serve coffee maker depends on your specific needs and preferences. Here are key factors to consider:
Size
Dual coffee machines generally occupy more counter space than standard coffee pots. Many feature distinct sections for single-serve and carafe brewing, resulting in a wider footprint. However, some higher-end models integrate all brewing sizes into a single area for a more compact design. Assess your available counter space and decide if a more space-saving model is worth the investment.
Type
While most single-serve coffee makers use pods like K-Cups or Nespresso capsules, dual coffee makers often have fewer pod-compatible options. Some models exclusively use ground coffee for single servings, while others offer the flexibility to brew both single cups and full pots using grounds. Consider your preference: pods offer convenience and minimal mess, while grounds provide greater coffee variety and reduce waste.
Carafe Design
The carafe type significantly impacts how long your coffee stays hot and maintains its flavor.
- Thermal Carafes: Ideal for brewing larger batches, thermal carafes keep coffee hot for hours without altering its taste. They rely on insulation rather than a heating element, preserving coffee freshness without burning or bitterness.
- Glass Carafes: Typically more affordable, glass carafes sit on a warming plate to maintain heat. While effective for keeping coffee warm, prolonged warming can gradually degrade flavor and potentially scorch the coffee.
If you tend to consume coffee over several hours or frequently brew full pots, a thermal carafe is generally the better choice for consistently great-tasting coffee.
FAQs About Coffee Pot and Single Serve Machines
What coffee grind size should I use?
A medium grind is generally suitable for both drip coffee and single-serve brewing in most dual coffee makers. This grind size provides a balanced extraction. Too coarse a grind can lead to weak coffee, while too fine a grind can cause bitterness. Most pre-ground coffee and coffee pods use a medium grind. If your machine also brews espresso, consult the manufacturer’s guidelines, as a fine grind is typically recommended for optimal espresso extraction.
How much caffeine is in a cup of coffee?
A 12-ounce cup of regular coffee can contain between 75 and 240 milligrams of caffeine. The precise amount varies based on brewing method, coffee-to-water ratio, roast level, and coffee maker type. Lighter roasts tend to have slightly more caffeine than darker roasts. Surprisingly, an espresso shot contains less caffeine than a full cup of brewed coffee.
Is a thermal coffee pot better than glass?
In the coffee industry, thermal carafes are generally preferred for maintaining the flavor of freshly brewed coffee for longer durations. Unlike glass coffee pots on warming plates, which can cause a scorched or burnt taste over time, thermal carafes use insulation to keep coffee hot without flavor alteration. Glass carafes maintain freshness for about 1-2 hours, while thermal carafes are better for extended warmth and flavor preservation.
How do you clean a dual coffee maker?
Cleaning procedures vary by model, so always refer to your user manual. General cleaning guidelines include:
- Daily Cleaning: Wash the carafe and brew basket, discard used grounds or pods, and empty the drip tray and water reservoir if needed.
- Dishwasher-Safe Parts: Many glass carafes, brew baskets, drip trays, and reusable filters are top-rack dishwasher safe (confirm with the manual).
- Hand-Wash Only: Thermal carafes, water reservoirs, and built-in grinders usually require hand washing.
- Deep Cleaning (Descaling): Descale every 1-3 months using a descaling solution or a 1:1 vinegar-water mix to remove mineral buildup. Rinse thoroughly with fresh water afterward.
- Surface Cleaning: Regularly wipe the exterior to prevent buildup.
Regular maintenance ensures fresh coffee and efficient machine operation.
Final Verdict: The Best of Both Worlds in Coffee Brewing
For its exceptional versatility and ease of use, the Ninja Specialty Coffee Maker stands out as a top choice in dual coffee machines. Its integrated frothing arm enables users to create specialty drinks alongside full pots, single mugs, and iced coffee. For a splurge-worthy option, the Breville Precision Brewer offers a sleek design and highly customizable settings, delivering premium, flavorful coffee in both single and large batches, making it a perfect coffee pot and single serve solution.
How We Tested Coffee Pot and Single Serve Coffee Makers
We have rigorously tested numerous coffee makers over the years, both in-home and in our dedicated testing lab, to identify the best machines. Our tests, encompassing everything from Keurig models to machines with built-in grinders, consistently focus on these key attributes:
- Coffee Quality: Taste is paramount. Features and design are secondary to brew quality. We tested each coffee maker with the same coffee, noting strength, bitterness, smoothness, and mouthfeel.
- Brewing Time and Temperature: Brew time and temperature are critical for optimal coffee extraction. We timed each machine’s brewing process and measured the temperature of the freshly brewed coffee using a thermometer.
- Ease of Use: We evaluated each dual coffee maker, noting features enhancing efficiency and user comfort. Prior to brewing, we assessed setup ease and control intuitiveness.
How We Test Products
Why Trust The Spruce Eats?
Cheyenne Elwell is a seasoned coffee writer and product tester with extensive experience in brewing methods, coffee equipment, and industry trends. Since 2018, she has tested and reviewed coffee products for The Spruce Eats, providing in-depth analysis of espresso machines, pour-over setups, and more. She also manages Baked Brewed Beautiful, a website dedicated to coffee education and product reviews. Cheyenne’s hands-on experience and deep passion for coffee ensure that every recommendation is supported by thorough testing and expertise.
Our Favorite Thermal Carafe Coffee Makers Keep Coffee Hot for Over 5 Hours
