Best Coffee Makers for Small Spaces: Compact Machines That Brew Big Flavor
Just because you live in a small apartment or RV doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy a morning cup of coffee! These compact coffee makers are not just ideal for small spaces; they offer a range of options and features that put you in control of your coffee brewing experience. Whether you’re looking for a single-cup machine, a smaller drip coffee maker, or something that does more than just brew coffee, there’s a compact coffee maker out there for you.
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Things to Consider Before Buying a Small Coffee Maker:
- Size: Will it fit in your kitchen or under cabinets?
- Quantity of Coffee: Are you brewing solely for yourself and your friends?
- Size of Water Tank: Smaller tanks may require you to fill them more frequently.
- Cleaning: There are fewer parts, which makes it easier to clean.
- Cord Length and Storage: How easy is it to store when not in use?
- Noise Level: If you live in an apartment with thin walls or you wake up early and your family doesn’t, a quieter unit is better.
With this information in mind, you can choose the perfect coffee maker for your space and get delicious coffee!
Features to Consider in a Coffee Maker
When space is at a premium, the right features are essential:
- Thin Frames: Look for frames that are 6-8 inches wide or less.
- Auto Shut-Off: No need to worry, this model is equipped with an Auto shut-off feature.
- Easy to Clean: Search for parts that detach for easy cleaning.
- Travel Mug Friendly: Ideal for those concoctions that need to go everywhere you do.
- Storage-Friendly: Things that can wrap up like cords, parts that fold away so they take up less space, are helpful.
5 Best Coffee Makers for Small Spaces Top Pick
1. Keurig K-Mini Single Serve Coffee Maker
- Size: Single Serve (K-Cups Compatible)
- Width: Less than 5 inches
- Water Tank: One cup at a time
- Brew Sizes: Choose 6-12 oz
Why It’s Great for Small Spaces
The Keurig K-Mini is the most compact brewer available, and you do not have to give up the space, convenience, or style that you enjoy! It brews coffee quickly, and K-Cups also work.
Pros
- Very small and easy to use
- Turns off automatically to conserve energy
- Select from various cup sizes
Cons
- You have to fill it with water every time you want to make coffee
Perfect For
Those in tight quarters — small-water-apartment-dwellers, we’re looking at you — and even those who want a quick cup of joe!
2. Nespresso Essenza Mini Espresso Machine by De’Longhi, Red
- Type: Espresso, uses capsules
- Size: 4.3 inches wide
- Water Tank: 20.3 oz Water Tank
- Pressure: 19 Bars
Why It’s Good for Small Spaces
This espresso machine is cute and petite. It heats up in just under 30 seconds and can slide into your cupboard or onto a narrow shelf.
Pros
- Heats up fast
- Takes up very little space
- Makes delicious espresso
Cons
- Compatible only with Nespresso capsules
Great For
Espresso lovers who don’t have a lot of counter space.
3. BLACK+DECKER 5-Cup Coffee Maker
- Type: Drip Coffee Maker
- Carafe: Produces 5 cups brewed in a glass pot
- Size: About 7 inches wide
Why It’s Great for Small Spaces
This coffee maker is slim and narrower compared to most, so it can fit under cabinets with ease and yet still brew enough coffee for 1–2 caffeine lovers. It’s equipped with a warming plate to keep coffee warm, and even has a window for gauging the water level.
Pros
- Small and budget-friendly
- Easy to use
- For 1 or 2 coffee drinkers
Cons
- Doesn’t have programmable settings
Good for
Anyone who wants a straightforward and economical way to make drip coffee.
4. AeroPress Coffee and Espresso Maker
- Type: Manual Press
- Makes: 1–3 Cups
- Small and lightweight size for easy carrying
Why It Works for Small Spaces
AeroPress, so small! It doesn’t require electricity, and it brews a mean glass of coffee or espresso. This one’s great for travelers and small kitchens.
Pros
- Easy to take with you
- Makes delicious coffee
- Simple to clean
Cons
- You need to make coffee by hand, so it’s not good for large groups
Ideal For
Travelers, students, and anyone who appreciates the ability to control how they brew their coffee.
5. Capresso 5-Cup Mini Drip Coffee Maker
- Type: Drip
- Carafe: 5-Cup Glass
- Functions: Programmable timer and hot plate
Why It’s Good for Small Spaces
Despite being compact, you’ll appreciate how handy it is to have this little coffee maker around. You can use a timer so your coffee is ready when you rise. It even has a reusable filter, so you don’t have to use paper ones.
Pros
- The size is small, but it has a lot of things!
- No need for paper filters
- It will self-shut off for safety
Cons
- A little on the tall side; could be too tall for really low cabinets
Great For
It’s a busy morning in compact kitchens.
Compact Coffee Maker Comparison Table
| Product | Dimensions (W x D x H) | Brew Type | Capacity | Special Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Keurig K-Mini | 4.5” x 11.3” x 12.1” | Single-Serve (K-Cup) | 6–12 oz | Cord storage, sleek design |
| Nespresso Essenza Mini | 4.3” x 8.1” x 12.8” | Espresso | 0.6 L | Fast heat-up, minimalist |
| AeroPress Go | 4.6” x 3.6” x 3.6” | Manual Brew | 1–3 cups | Portable with travel mug |
| Black+Decker 5-Cup | 7.3” x 9.4” x 10.6” | Drip | 5 cups | Easy-view water window |
| Hamilton Beach Scoop | 7.5” x 9.8” x 13.5” | Single-Serve (Grounds) | 14 oz | Built-in mesh filter |
How to Choose the Right Small Coffee Maker?
- Size: Assess how much space you have. Coffee makers less than 6 inches wide work well on slim counters.
- Brew Size: Consider whether you want to brew a whole pot of coffee or just one small cup in the morning.
- Water Tank: The removable water tank is convenient to fill, but it will occupy more of your counter’s real estate.
- Type of Coffee Maker: Think about your preferred brew method and where you’ll be able to plug the coffee maker in before choosing a manual maker, a pod machine, or a drip coffee maker.
- Portability: If you travel a lot (i.e., you camp, live in an RV or dorm, etc.), light options are critical, such as the AeroPress.
How to Care For Little Coffee Makers
To maintain the condition of your coffee maker and ensure your coffee tastes delicious, you should:
- Descaling Monthly: Prevent mineral buildup by using vinegar or a special cleaner.
- Wipe It Down: Keep the exterior clean, especially if you’re working within a narrow space.
- Empty the Water Tank: Helps prevent mold if you’re not using the thing.
- Weekly Clean Parts: Don’t forget to clean the filters, the baskets, and the carafes.
FAQs: The Best Coffee Makers for Small Spaces
Q: What’s the best coffee maker for a small kitchen?
A: The Keurig K-Mini or Nespresso’s Essenza Mini are solid options, as they’re small and produce good coffee.
Q: Can I get a small coffee maker that grinds coffee?
A: Yes, but they’re rare. You could get a little coffee maker and a tiny grinder.
Q: Are mini coffee machines not as durable?
A: Not really! Products from brands like Nespresso and AeroPress are durable and will last a long time.
Q: What is the best small-space coffee maker?
A: Original manual coffee makers, such as AeroPress, offer no sound insulation. The Nespresso Essenza is also relatively quiet for an electric machine.
Final Thoughts: Little Package, Lot of Taste
You can enjoy great coffee even if you live in a small space! Whether you’re after a one-cup espresso or a plain-old brewed cup of joe, there’s a small footprint coffee maker for you. Stashing one of these diminutive machines in your kitchen can help your coffee routine get better, without taking up too much space.