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The 5 Best Single Serve Coffee Maker No Pods (2024 Guide)

Charl Joost
Last Updated: December 30th, 2023

Buying coffee pods for your coffee maker can be a bothersome exercise which is where single-serve coffee makers come in.

In this article, we are going to look at our top picks of the best single serve coffee makers with no pods to help you choose your next coffee maker and make the decision easier.

Things to Consider Before Buying a Single-Serve Coffee Maker

things before buying a single serve coffee maker

How to Choose a Single Serve Coffee Maker

The main consideration you should always make when buying a coffee machine is setting a budget.

Buying a unit out of your budget may cause stress and could cause other issues down the line so ensure you set a budget first and stick to it when buying a new coffee machine.

What are the Benefits of a Coffee Machine with No Pods?

The main benefit of a coffee machine without pods is that you do not have to go out and buy single-use coffee pods each time you want to fix yourself a beverage.

Rather, with these units, you can add your favorite coffee grounds and make as many cups as you like before the grounds are finished.

A benefit to the environment is that you are not disposing of single-use coffee pods each time you want a drink. Some coffee pods are made from material that cannot be recycled so you can assure yourself that, with this unit, you are not creating additional waste and harm to the environment.

Things to Look For in a Single Serve Coffee Maker

Size

The size of the coffee maker is an important aspect to consider as a larger unit could create clutter in your kitchen.

In comparison, a smaller coffee maker may not stand up against frequent use or may not be strong enough for what you require. It is therefore important to consider the size of the unit in terms of water capacity as well as its dimensions.

Capacity

The capacity of the unit will be an important consideration. A smaller unit may have a smaller capacity and is ideal for one person, but if you have a large family that will want to make a few cups of coffee before needing to refill the water container, you will want to look for a unit with a larger capacity.

Materials

Certain materials will last longer than others when exposed to moisture or frequent use. For that reason, you want to ensure that the coffee maker you are purchasing is made from materials that will not experience great wear and tear in the short term and is more likely to last in the long term.

These are all things you must consider as poor-quality machines will require you to replace your coffee maker more frequently, adding up in the long run.

The strength and capacity of the coffee maker will affect the ease at which you use it, and the size should be ideal for what you are expecting from the unit.

Quick Overview: Our Top Picks for Best Single Serve Coffee Maker No Pods

IMAGEPRODUCTDETAILS
dstblcr-table__imageFamiworths Single Serve Coffee Maker
  • large Capacity Ground Coffee Basket
  • Compact Design
  • Auto Clean Function
CHECK CURRENT PRICESee Customer Reviews
dstblcr-table__imageHamilton Beach Single Serve Coffee Maker
  • Eco-friendly
  • Adjustable Stand
  • Automatic Shutoff
CHECK CURRENT PRICESee Customer Reviews
dstblcr-table__imageNinja CFP201 DualBrew 12-Cup Coffee Maker
  • Milk Frother
  • Removable Tank
  • Adjustable Warming Plate
CHECK CURRENT PRICESee Customer Reviews
dstblcr-table__imageWirsh Single Serve Coffee Maker
  • Eco-friendly
  • Illuminated LCD Display
  • Multiple Use
CHECK CURRENT PRICESee Customer Reviews
dstblcr-table__imageMr. Coffee Iced and Hot Coffee Maker
  • Quickly and Easily Brew
  • Easy Measuring System
  • Pod-Free
CHECK CURRENT PRICESee Customer Reviews

Top 5 Best Single Serve Coffee Maker with No Pods

1. Famiworths Single Serve Coffee Maker for Ground Coffee

Famiworths has produced a single-serve coffee maker that is compatible with ground coffee as well as K Cups. This unit comes with a coffee ground basket which can be used with coffee grounds and tea leaves, and there is an option to adjust the strength of the brew.

Price

For $60, this single-serve coffee machine is among the middle-range option on this list. The price reflects the benefit you would get from this unit, including its size and capacity, the materials used to make the coffee maker, and other benefits built into this price.

Capacity and Size

This single-serve coffee maker has dimensions of 5 by 9 by 12 inches, making it a compact option on this list. It will not take up needed space on your kitchen counter and will not add visual clutter to your kitchen.

The capacity of this unit is 14 US fluid ounces, which is enough to make 2 cups of coffee before needing to fill it.

A ground coffee basket is included with this machine, allowing you to fill it with 25 grams (or 0,9 ounces) of ground coffee to make it easier to brew your morning cup of coffee.

There is an additional option to put loose tea leaves in the basket to brew a strong cup of your preferred tea.

Materials and Durability

The primary material used to produce this coffee maker is stainless steel which is a durable material. It is anti-corrosive and rust-resistant so it will last against exposure to moisture and frequent use.

Pros

  • Self-cleaning: This unit will clean itself meaning you do not have to take the extra step yourself after making your coffee.
  • Fits most coffee cups: The height of the spout will not affect which mug you need to use to make your coffee as most will fit.
  • Compatible with ground coffee and k cups: If you happen to find a k cup flavor that you like, you can use it with this machine as well as using ground coffee.

Cons

  • High price point: At an approximate price of $60, this unit may be out of some budgets.

2. Hamilton Beach “The Scoop” Single Serve Coffee Maker

The Scoop is a single-serve coffee maker made and sold by Hamilton Beach. It is a somewhat compact coffee maker that will help you make your morning brew regardless of the size of your coffee cup.

Price

At an approximate price of $53, this coffee maker is in the middle of the price point of coffee makers. It could be affordable for some but should be considered if it is out of your budget.

Capacity and Size

The water drum in this coffee maker has a capacity of 14 US fluid ounces which means you will need to refill it more often between brewing your coffee.

Further, with dimensions of 6,7 by 8,35 by 8,67 inches, this is a somewhat compact unit that will no clutter your kitchen or be an eye sore.

Materials and Durability

Stainless steel is used throughout the body and outside of this coffee maker. It is a durable material that will not rust when exposed to liquids which is an ideal option for a coffee machine with hot water contained within.

Similarly, stainless steel is an easy material to clean meaning you will not have unwanted bacteria sitting on your coffee maker.

This material is a durable one that will decrease the frequency at which you need to replace your coffee maker. Over the long run, this will reduce the amount of money you are spending, with additional savings coming from not needing to buy coffee pods.

Pros

  • Adjustable stand: With an adjustable stand, you can change the height of your coffee cup, preventing your fresh brew from flicking over the brim or messing up on your counter.
  • Eco-friendly option: Given that this machine uses freshly ground coffee instead of coffee pods, you can ensure that each cup you make is not harming the environment.
  • Automatic shutoff: The machine will automatically shut off after your coffee has been brewed, meaning you do not need to turn it off yourself.

Cons

  • Considerable price: At an approximate price of $53, you need to consider whether the benefits of the coffee machine are worth what you are spending.

3. Ninja CFP201 Dual Brew System Coffee Maker

N.B.R. Enterprises has produced the Ninja CFP201 coffee maker which is compatible with ground coffee. With a milk frother, this machine is ideal for use with ground coffee or coffee pods depending on your preferences.

Price

At a high price of approximately $200, this Ninja coffee maker is the most expensive unit on this list. This is a unit that you would need to consider for some time before purchasing. Make sure the benefits of the machine are worth the price in your mind.

Capacity and Size

With dimensions of 9,08 by 11,18 by 15,4 inches, this coffee maker is the largest unit on this list. You would therefore need to have ample counter space available for this unit so that it does not cause visual clutter or take up needed space on your counters.

Ninja’s coffee maker comes with a removable water reservoir that holds up to 60 ounces of water. This is enough to make up to 10 cups of coffee with approximately 6 ounces of water per cup.

The entire unit weighs 9 pounds making it a heavier machine that may take some maneuvering to get set up initially.

Materials and Durability

Plastic is the main material used on the outside of the machine. It is generally a sturdy material when it is made thick enough, standing up against daily use and general wear and tear.

Additionally, stainless steel is used in this model which is anti-corrosive and rust-resistant.

Pros

  • Large water capacity: This unit holds up to 60 ounces of water reducing the frequency needed to refill it.
  • Durable materials: Plastic and stainless steel are durable materials meaning your coffee maker will last in the long run.
  • Dual coffee maker: The Ninja unit is compatible with coffee pods and ground coffee making it ideal for either preference.

Cons

  • High Price Point: At an approximate cost of $200, this is an expensive unit that would be out of most budgets.

4. Wirsh Single Serve Coffee Maker with Programmable Timer

Wirsh has produced a compact and affordable coffee maker that includes a programmable, 24-hour timer and an additional stainless steel travel mug. This is an ideal coffee maker for someone wanting a compact unit or wanting to make coffee quickly.

Price

For the price of approximately $37, the Wirsh coffee maker is the most affordable option on this list. Although it has a low price point, this unit is not cheaply made and has a host of benefits that will improve the coffee-making experience for you and others using it.

Capacity and Size

With dimensions of 5,1 by 7 by 11 inches, this coffee maker is the most compact unit among these options. The smaller size means it will not take up unnecessary space on your kitchen counter and will not cause clutter in your space.

Visually, it is a smaller unit that does not affect the overall image of your kitchen, making it an appealing option.

Materials and Durability

Plastic and stainless steel are the primary materials used in this coffee maker. Thick plastic is a durable material while stainless steel is anti-corrosive and rust-resistant. When exposed to moisture or liquids, this coffee machine will not wear down.

The 14-ounce travel coffee mug is made from stainless steel which is a durable and rust-resistant material. It will not wear down when exposed to moisture and will last in the long run.

With a double wall design, this travel mug will keep your coffee warm and allow you to take it with you on the go.

Pros

  • Additional parts: Wirsh has included a 14-ounce stainless steel travel mug with any purchase of this machine, allowing you to brew your coffee on your way out the front door.
  • Reusable coffee filter: a reusable coffee filter means you do not need to replace the coffee filter between each brew.
  • Affordable option: The most affordable option on this list, the Wirsh unit should fall within most budgets.

Cons

  • Small capacity: The water tank included in this coffee machine can hold 14 ounces of water, meaning you need to refill it more frequently.

5. Mr. Coffee Iced and Hot Coffee Maker, Single Serve Machine

For a coffee machine that makes it easy to make hot or iced coffee in varying sizes, Mr. Coffee’s single-serve coffee maker is an ideal option. It is a large but lightweight coffee maker that does not require coffee pods.

Price

Another mid-range coffee maker, the Mr. Coffee unit can be bought for approximately $55. This unit needs to be bought with some consideration but should be affordable for some people. The price reflects the benefits included in this coffee maker.

Capacity and Size

With dimensions of 7 by 10 by 16 inches, this unit is not the most compact model on this list but is still smaller than other units. It is unlikely to take up too much space on your kitchen counter and will not cause visual clutter that could make your kitchen look messy.

Materials and Durability

Made primarily of plastic, this unit is likely to last against frequent use and exposure to moisture. Plastic is a durable product when it is made thick enough and will reduce the frequency at which you need to replace your coffee maker.

Pros

  • Additional pieces: Mr. Coffee has included a reusable tumbler, lid, and straw with this coffee machine which means it is easy to make your iced coffee on the go.
  • Reusable filter: A reusable filter is included with this unit meaning you do not need to go buy coffee filters to use this coffee maker.
  • Compatible with iced and hot coffee: The spout of the coffee maker is at a height that allows a large, iced coffee tumbler to fit underneath as well as a mug for hot coffee.

Cons

  • Considerable price point: At approximately $55, you need to take some time to consider the benefits of this coffee machine before purchasing it.

Best Single Serve Coffee Maker – Final Thoughts

If you are looking to buy a single-serve coffee maker with no pods, there are things you need to consider. Price is the first consideration as some units may be out of your budget. T

he most affordable option on this list is the Wirsh Coffee Maker with a price of $37 while the most expensive option is the Ninja CFP201 at a price of approximately $200.

Size is another thing to consider as a coffee maker that is too large can cause clutter in your kitchen. The most compact unit on this list is Wirsh Coffee Maker with dimensions of 5,1” by 7” by 11” while the largest unit is Ninja CFP201 with dimensions of 9,08” by 11,18” by 15,4”.

Overall, we cannot choose which coffee maker on this list is our top pick. Coffee makers are a personal choice, and each person is going to expect something different from their machine. The price is dependent on your budget, the size can affect whether you buy it or not, and the capacity required is dependent on your needs.

Hopefully, this article has helped you decide which coffee maker you will be trying next. Careful consideration has been used to produce this list and we hope that one of these single-serve coffee makers will be ideal for you and will suit your needs.

About The Author

Charl Joost

Charl is a trainer, public speaker, and professional writer. While he has been coached to niche down, he has many passions. These include golf, gardening, technology, and a decent cup of coffee or two. Charl loves to learn about new products and tries everything he writes about.

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