8 Best Single-Serve Coffee Makers in Australia (2024)

Single-serve coffee makers have become a staple in many Australian homes. They offer a quick, convenient way to brew a perfect cup of coffee without the hassle of grinding beans or cleaning up a big pot.

In this blog, I've explored the best single-serve coffee makers available in Australia to make your search easier. I'll guide you through expert reviews that discuss each model's unique features, pros and cons, and how they can transform your coffee experience. Ready? Let's deep dive.

My Top Picks

This guide is quite long, as it involved researching and evaluating over 20 single-serve coffee machines in Australia. If you’re in a hurry or need to make a quick decision, here are my top three picks:

Breville Precision Brewer Thermal

Best single-serve coffee maker for most people with six brewing modes, PID temperature control, dual filter baskets, and a pour-over brew option.

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Keurig K-Compact Single-Serve

Best single-serve coffee machine for home use with a compact build, 1 L water capacity, quick brew in under a minute, and energy-efficient auto-off feature.

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Nespresso ENV90Y Vertuo Pop Solo

Best Nespresso single-cup coffee maker with a compact design, diverse drink options, automatic software updates, and a budget-friendly price point.

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Top 8 Single-Serve Coffee Makers for Australians

My review process of the top single-serve coffee machines in Australia considered each model's brewing time, ease of use, coffee quality, cleaning process, and customer reviews. The top eight picks evaluated below were shortlisted based on these criteria, alongside expert opinions.

1. Breville Precision Brewer Thermal

Best for Most People

The Breville Precision Brewer Thermal is a single-serve coffee maker that combines innovation with simplicity, ensuring a perfect cup every time, no matter your coffee preferences. It packs six unique brewing modes; a gold cup, a fast brew, a strong brew, refreshing ice coffee, a cold brew, and a personalised brew option called My Brew.

Breville's My Brew feature allows for a personalised coffee experience, letting you tweak various elements such as bloom, water temperature, flow rate, and brew time according to the bean's age, origin, and roast. For single-serve, the coffee maker has a Small Cup Detection feature and a Steep and Release valve that controls how long the water and coffee mix together when you're making a single cup of coffee (up to 590 ml) or a cold brew coffee.

The Precision Brewer's thermal insulated, stainless steel carafe keeps your coffee hot for an extended period. It also has a heating system that adjusts the water temperature between 91 and 95°C automatically. Additionally, the coffee maker is compatible with pour-over coffee makers like Hario V6 or Kalita Wave, giving you more options to make your coffee.

Pros

• Six brewing modes
• Innovative pour-over option
• Control over the brewing process
• PID temperature control
• Dual filter baskets

Cons

• Slightly larger footprint
• Not a dedicated single-cup machine

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2. Cuisinart Grind & Brew Single-Serve Brewer

Best Single-Serve Coffee Maker With Grinder

The Cuisinart Grind & Brew Single-Serve Brewer offers three brew options; ground beans, pre-ground coffee, or single-use pods. It has an integrated conical burr grinder that grinds whole beans to your ideal consistency and a special HomeBarista Reusable Filter Cup, which is stored in the machine where the ground coffee goes. The coffee maker can hold up to 100 grams of coffee beans and has a sealed lid to keep the beans fresh for a long time.

To prepare a cup of coffee, the machine has push-button control for three beverage sizes (227, 283, and 340 grams). It's also compatible with any single-cup pod, including Keurig K-Cups. You can use your favourite pods or opt for the eco-friendly route with your coffee grounds. Cuisinart also offers programmable features that allow for adjustments based on grind size and coffee amount, providing extra flexibility.

The single-serve coffee maker packs a 1.36-litre removable water reservoir that is easy to fill. Even better, Cuisinart includes a charcoal water filter that enhances the quality of the water used for brewing. The water tank also has an easy-view water window, ensuring effortless water level monitoring. For build quality, the machine has excellent craftsmanship and a thoughtful, sturdy design. Its compact size makes it a perfect fit for limited counter space.

Pros

• Reusable filter Cup
• Easy-to-clean components
• Integrated conical burr mill grinder
• Offers three brewing options
• Charcoal water filter
• Quiet brewing

Cons

• Prone to leaks with paper filters
• Intermittent grinding speed delays
• Frequent grounds ejection

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3. Elite Gourmet EHC111A Coffee Maker

Best Single Coffee Maker With No Pods

Elite Gourmet's EHC111A Coffee Maker has a robust 600W heating system that achieves a brew within 60 seconds. This level of expediency is beneficial if you have a demanding schedule. But beyond its rapid performance, the machine also impresses with the richness and consistency of the coffee it produces.

Included with the device is a thermal travel mug crafted from 304 stainless steel. Whether for lengthy road journeys or extended commutes, this thermal mug is designed to maintain beverage warmth. The machine's tall opening is perfectly tailored for tall travel mugs. The coffee maker also features a one-touch control panel and a clear water level indicator.

The Elite Gourmet EHC111A can also double up as a tea brewer - a versatile choice for those who enjoy both beverages. On the sustainability front, the removable, reusable filter is a step in the right direction, allowing for eco-friendly brewing using ground coffee. The thermal reset switch and auto shut-off function not only speak of the safety measures in place but also highlight the machine's energy-conserving capabilities.

Pros

• Quick caffeine brew
• Easy brewing with one-touch control
• Eco-friendly, cost-effective filter
• Safety with thermal reset, auto shut-off
• Steel mug keeps coffee hot

Cons

• No warming plate
• Learning curve for new users

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4. Keurig K-Compact Single-Serve

Best Single-Serve Coffee Machine for Home

The Keurig K-Compact has a slender profile, at just over 8 inches wide, ensuring it fits seamlessly into any kitchen. This coffee maker offers the flexibility to brew 170, 227, or 283-gram cups in under a minute. While it's a pod coffee machine, you also have the option to use your own ground coffee with the My K-Cup Universal Reusable Coffee Filter, which adds an extra layer of customisation.

Keurig's 1-litre removable water reservoir means you can brew multiple cups before needing a refill. It also has a Smart Start feature that streamlines the brewing process, i.e., heating and brewing in one simple step. And for extra convenience, it has button controls that make it easy to operate – insert a pod, choose your cup size, and enjoy a perfect cup every time.

The K-Compact Single-Serve is not only efficient in space but also in energy consumption. The auto-off feature turns off the coffee maker after two hours of inactivity, contributing to energy savings. I recommend it for its style, efficiency, and versatility. Its space-saving design, multiple brewing options, and thoughtful features make it my standout choice for home coffee enthusiasts.

Pros

• Space-saving design
• Removable water reservoir
• Quick brewing in under a minute
• Energy-efficient auto-off feature
• Brews multiple cup sizes

Cons

• Loud when heating water
• Button controls only

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5. Nespresso Vertuo Pop Solo ENV90Y

Best Nespresso Single-Cup Coffee Maker

Nespresso Vertuo Pop Solo ENV90Y is a pint-sized coffee machine with features that make it a delightful addition to any coffee lover's kitchen. It has a playful and compact design that doesn't demand much space, yet it manages to make a statement with its fresh colours and stylish curves. And while compact, its water tank capacity of 0.56 L is good enough for a single serve.

But that's not all; with its barcoded Vertuo pods, the machine serves up a variety of coffee sizes, from the classic espresso to generous mug-sized servings. It accommodates four different coffee cup sizes: mug, gran lungo, double espresso, and espresso, through three different coffee pod sizes. You can easily brew a cup of coffee at the touch of a button. The coffee maker also features a quick 30-second heat-up time, reducing any unnecessary delays.

For consistent brew and quality, the coffee maker has Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity, which allows Nespresso to automatically send software updates to the Vertuo Pop to keep up with the latest Nespresso coffee experience.

Pros

• Compact design
• Diverse drink options
• Budget-friendly alternative
• Automatic software updates
• Easy to use

Cons

• Not suitable for oversized mugs

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6. De’Longhi Dinamica Plus

Best Single-Serve Coffee Machine for Offices

The Dinamica Plus is a single-serve coffee machine and a fully automatic espresso machine. It has a built-in conical grinder, a Smart-One-Touch System with 16 one-touch or customised drinks, and a LatteCrema Automatic Milk solution.

The LatteCrema milk frothing system is the single-serve coffee maker's unique feature. It's an efficient milk frothing system for fine-textured milk foam. To use it, you only need to fasten the milk jug to the machine's front panel. The froth produced is usable with beverages such as cappuccino, latte macchiato, etc. It comes with a thermal milk jug that, when not in use, may be stored in the refrigerator to keep your milk fresh.

The Dinamica Plus has a simple-to-use touchscreen interface that is large enough (9 cm) for quick navigation and drink customisation. There is also the Coffee Link App that lets you control your coffee maker from your smartphone or tablet. And for further convenience, the Dinamica Plus includes an adjustable spout to make more room for various mug sizes. You can also adjust it downwards to reduce splashes and keep your machine clean.

Pros

• 16 programmed coffee drinks
• LatteCrema milk frothing system
• 9cm TFT coloured touch display
• Adjustable spout height
• Smart app connectivity

Cons

• Limited milk temperature control

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7. Westinghouse 3-in-1 Capsule Coffee Machine

Best Single-Head Coffee Capsule Machine

The Westinghouse 3-in-1 Capsule Coffee Machine offers significant advantages. Primarily, it comes with three adapters, which frees you from the constraints of using a single brand's capsules. This machine is compatible with Nespresso and Dolce-Gusto capsules and ground coffee. You also get a 700 ml water tank to brew up to 7 cups of espresso or 4 cups of coffee before refill. And, speaking of refills, the tank is detachable, so you can fill it up straight from your tap.

Another impressive feature is the machine's high-pressure pump. It boasts a pressure level of 19 bars, which, in simpler terms, means you're likely to get a richer espresso shot. For a quick brew, the coffee maker warms up in roughly 40 seconds. And its adjustable cup button is a nod to versatility, giving you control over your brew size. I recommend it if you want a compact, versatile, fast, and quality single-serve coffee maker.

Pros

• Three brew options
• 40 seconds warm-up time
• 19-bar high-pressure pump
• User-focused design

Cons

• Recommended for small jugs

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8. Piccolo Roccia

Best Single-Group Coffee Machine

The Piccolo Roccia Single Group Machine has a compact build that is made of a solid mix of stainless steel and painted steel. The attention to detail in its internal and external parts is incredibly commendable. The sturdy single-group espresso machine is designed with precision to deliver an exceptional espresso experience right in the comfort of your home.

For features and functionalities, it has a built-in digital shot timer, "Tempo," which assists in achieving that spot-on extraction coffee lovers chase. It's a handy tool, especially for beginners. The Piccolo Roccia also includes features that enhance usability. You get an ergo filter holder, easy clean functionality, and a plug-and-play setup that makes it user-friendly.

Piccolo's single-group coffee machine has a 1-litre drip water tray, a practical addition preventing mess during brewing. There are also two different cleaning brushes available for maintenance and cleaning when necessary. The coffeemaker has a security valve that adds an extra layer of safety. And its AU/NZ home certification provides an extra layer of assurance, meeting the necessary standards for home use.

Pros

• Durability and elegant
• Inbuilt digital shot timer
• User-friendly features
• Easy to maintain

Cons

• Limited customisation options
• Suited to individuals or smaller households

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Best Single Coffee Machine: The Single-Serve Showstopper

When it comes to single-serve coffee machines in Australia, finding the perfect blend of functionality, design, and capacity can be a bit of a hunt. However, for those wanting a top-notch experience backed by a trusted brand, there's one standout: the Breville Precision Coffee Brewer Thermal. Let's delve deeper into what sets this machine apart from the crowd.

#1 - Good Design and Build

Crafted with a brushed stainless steel finish, the Breville Precision Brewer is robust and elegant, seamlessly complementing both modern and classic kitchen interiors. It also boasts a compact yet efficient footprint with dimensions of 33.8 D x 31.3 W x 40.7 H centimetres.

#2 - Generous Capacity

Breville's coffee machine has a sizable 2-litre water reservoir. This generous capacity ensures that you won't find yourself constantly refilling. Whether for your morning cup of coffee or serving guests throughout the day, this machine keeps up, providing consistent performance.

#3 - Special Jug Feature

While many single-serve machines are tailored exclusively for individual cups, the Breville Precision Coffee Brewer provides the flexibility to brew larger quantities, courtesy of its unique special jug feature. This is perfect if one cup isn't often enough or when you're entertaining a group.

#4 - A Trusted Brand

Breville is a quality and innovative brand with a rich legacy of producing top-tier kitchen appliances. Their single-serve coffee machine is no exception, mirroring the brand's commitment to excellence, quality, and user-focused design.

What's a Single Cup Coffee Maker Called?

Single-cup coffee makers, often referred to as single-serve coffee machines, are an increasingly popular choice for many Australians. These machines, as their name suggests, brew just one cup of coffee at a time. They're perfect for those who live alone, have diverse taste preferences within a household, or want a fresh cup every time without brewing a whole pot.

Pod Coffee Machines

Another variation of the single-serve coffee machine is the pod machine. These machines are specifically designed to brew coffee from specially prepared sealed capsules or 'pods'. The pods contain a precise amount of coffee grounds, ensuring a consistent taste each time. Renowned brands like Nespresso and Dolce Gusto have carved a niche for themselves in the Australian market due to their ease of use and consistency.

Why Get a Single-Cup Coffee Maker?

Single-serve machines also often have a vast array of flavours and blends available. Whether you're in the mood for a robust dark roast, a creamy latte, or even a flavoured coffee, you'll find a pod or capsule to satisfy your craving.

Additionally, many modern machines come with adjustable settings, allowing you to tweak brewing parameters such as strength and temperature, ensuring a cup that’s tailored to individual preferences.

How Do You Make Coffee in a Single Cup Maker?

Making coffee in a single-cup maker is a simple process. Whether you're using a pod-based system or a machine with a reusable filter. Follow the comprehensive stepwise guide below to brew your perfect cup.

For Pod-Based Machines:

1. Insert the Pod: Open the machine's lid or chamber and place the pod in the designated slot, ensuring it fits snugly.
2. Fill the Water Reservoir: Open the water tank lid, fill it up to the indicated maximum line using fresh, cold water, and secure the lid back.
3. Select Brew Size and Strength: Some machines allow you to choose the size of your cup or the coffee's strength. If yours does, make your selection now.
4. Press Start: Once you've made your choices, hit the brew or start button. The machine will then begin its brewing cycle.
5. Enjoy Your Brew: Once the machine indicates it's done, carefully remove your cup and enjoy your freshly brewed coffee.

For Machines with Reusable Filters:

1. Prepare the Coffee Grounds: Measure out the desired amount of coffee grounds. For a stronger cup, use more grounds.
2. Place the Coffee in the Filter: Open the machine's lid and add the coffee grounds to the reusable filter.
3. Fill the Water Reservoir: As with the pod-based machine, you'll need to add fresh, cold water up to the machine's indicated line.
4. Select Your Preferences: If your machine allows for customisation, adjust the settings to your liking now.
5. Press Start: Initiate the brewing process by pressing the start button.
6. Coffee is Ready: Once the brewing cycle is complete, remove your cup, and give it a gentle stir if you like; your coffee is ready.

How Does a Single-Cup Coffee Maker Work?

A single-cup coffee maker, also known as a pod coffee maker or single-serve coffee maker, operates by brewing a single serving of coffee at a time. Here's a general overview of how these machines work:

1. Water Intake: First, pour the desired amount of water into the reservoir. This is crucial for brewing and maintaining the machine's internal temperature.
2. Heating: Once initiated, the machine begins heating the water to an optimal brewing temperature. This usually hovers between 90°C and 96°C, ensuring a balanced extraction.
3. Pressurising: As the water heats, the machine pressurises it, preparing for even distribution through the coffee grounds.
4. Brewing: The hot, pressurised water is then directed through the coffee pod or grounds. As it passes through, it extracts flavours and aromas, resulting in a rich, full-bodied coffee.
5. Dispensing: The brewed coffee then makes its way through the machine's spout, filling your waiting cup with a steaming, aromatic delight.

Pods vs. Ground Coffee

While you may be familiar with pod-based systems, thanks to brands like Nespresso or Keurig, not all single-serve machines use pods. Some allow for fresh coffee grounds, offering a touch more flexibility in flavour and strength.

• Pods are pre-packed coffee capsules that contain a pre-measured amount of coffee grounds, often sealed to preserve freshness. When hot water is forced through the pod, it interacts with the grounds, and your coffee is brewed in seconds.
• Ground coffee machines typically feature a basket or filter compartment. Here, you add your fresh coffee grounds, and when water is passed through, it brews your coffee.

The Role of Pressure

In any coffee discussion, especially when discussing espresso, pressure is paramount. Many single-serve machines, particularly those aiming to replicate espresso, use pressure to enhance the brewing process.

• Increased Extraction: Under pressure, hot water is forced through coffee grounds more effectively. This ensures a rapid and even extraction of the coffee's oils and essences, giving you a fuller flavour.
• Creamy Crema: If you're a fan of that golden, frothy layer atop your espresso, you have pressure to thank. Proper pressurisation results in a beautiful crema, indicating a well-brewed cup.

Now you know how single-serve coffee makers work. The next time you press that brew button, spare a thought for the intricate dance of water, heat, and pressure that brings your favourite drink to life.

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Wrapping Up

Having delved into the world of single-serve coffee machines and explored the details about brewing, features, and differences that make some better than others, it's evident that there's a wide range of models available, guaranteeing there's an option for you. Armed with your newfound knowledge, find that perfect single-serve coffee machine that turns every morning into a café escapade.