Hamilton Beach 2 Way 12 Cup Single Serve Coffee Maker 49980A

Looking for a coffee maker that does both single-serve coffees and a whole pot of percolated joe? The Hamilton Beach 2 Way Coffee Maker (49980A) could be the answer to your prayers.
It’s one of the best-selling coffee machines in the United States, adored by families, hard-pressed workers, coffee maker for office and anyone who wants a fresh cup of coffee brewed just the way they like it.
In this extensive review and buyer’s guide, we include everything you need to know about the Hamilton Beach 2-Way Coffee Maker. We’ll detail design,
performance, features, pros, cons, comparisons and answer frequently asked questions. By the time it’s over, you’ll know whether this is the coffee maker for your kitchen.
So, Why Would You Consider the Hamilton Beach 2-Way Coffee Maker?
The vast majority of coffee makers are designed to either make a single cup or a whole pot. The Hamilton Beach 49980A is a little bit of both:
- Make one cup of coffee for yourself in the morning before work.
- Great for brewing 12 units of coffee for family, friends, and coworkers.
- You can even use ground coffee (or soft pods) if that’s what you prefer.
This flexibility makes it a value-packed coffee maker for individuals who crave choices without having to purchase two separate machines.
What Makes the Hamilton Beach 2 Way Coffee Maker Unique?

Here’s why this coffee maker is worthy of its attention:
Two Ways to Brew
- Single-serve side for one cup.
- Carafe side of up to 12-2 oz.
Compatible with Ground Coffee and Pods
- Use your favourite ground coffee.
- Or use easy soft coffee pods for faster cups.
Programmable Timer
- Set it the night before.
- Wake up to hot, freshly brewed coffee.
Brew Strength Selector
- Opt for “regular” or “bold” coffee flavour.
- Ideal for families with various coffee tastes.
Auto Pause & Pour
- Get a cup despite there still being a carafe brewing.
Durable Glass Carafe
- Holds 12 cups.
- Drip-free pouring design.
Easy Cleaning
- This percolator automatically keeps coffee hot, maintains serving temperature and features a detachable cord for easy serving.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Compatible with Single Serve & Carafe Brewing (two ways to brew).
- Programmable brewing with a timer.
- Strong or regular brew settings.
- Easy to clean.
- Inexpensive when compared to other dual brewers.
Cons
- Requires more counter space than small single-serve machines.
- Doesn’t work with K-Cups (only soft pods or ground coffee).
- One side only, 14 oz. Max.
People’s Positive Reactions Towards the Hamilton Beach 2 Way 49980A Coffee Maker
Customers praise this machine for:
- Flexibility: Great for when one person wants a cup and another wants a pot.
- Durability: Solid construction, so you can enjoy it for years to come.
- Value for Money: The best thing is, you get two machines for one.
- Flavour: Deep coffee, punchy or not.
Several reviewers note that it saves them time in the morning and spares them the need for two different machines.
Who Should Get This Coffee Maker?
- Families who need single cups and full pots.
- Couples with different coffee needs.
- People on the go who need to program their coffee.
- Tiny offices where a few people drink coffee.
Buying Guide: Features to Consider in a Hamilton Beach 49980A Coffee Maker
Here are some things to consider when picking a coffee maker, such as the Hamilton Beach 2-Way:
- Capacity: Do you brew for a single individual or a group of people?
- Brew Options: Do you require single-serve, carafe, or both?
- Pod Compatibility: Do you use K-Cups, pods, or traditional ground coffee?
- Easy to Clean: Check for detachable components.
- Adjustable Settings: Auto-start shortcut for no-hassle operation.
- Price vs Value: Ensure you can afford it.
The Hamilton Beach 2-Way fulfils nearly all of that criteria.
Hamilton Beach 2-Way Coffee Maker vs. Other Coffee Makers
Feature | Hamilton Beach 49980A | Keurig K-Elite | Cuisinart 12-Cup Brew Central |
---|---|---|---|
Brew Type | Single + Carafe | Single Only | Carafe Only |
Brew Size | 1 cup or 12 cups | 6–12 oz | 12 cups |
Pods | Soft Pods / Ground | K-Cups | Ground Coffee |
Programmable | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Price Range | Affordable | Higher | Medium |
How to Use the Hamilton Beach Two-Way Coffee Maker

- Fill the water reservoir (either the single or carafe side).
- Insert a coffee ground or soft pod.
- Choose your brew size (cup size to carafe size).
- Select brew strength (regular or bold).
- Push “Brew Now” or program the time.
It is user-friendly for all.
Cleaning and Maintenance
- Clean the carafe after use.
- Remove and rinse filter baskets.
- Clean the drip tray.
- Run the vinegar + water cycle once a month for descaling.
It will last longer and keep coffee fresher with regular cleaning.
FAQs
Q: Can you use K-Cups in the Hamilton Beach 49980A?
A: No, it can use soft coffee pods or ground coffee.
Q: Can I make coffee in a travel mug?
A: Yes, it does: single-serve side brews up to 14 oz. Applicable for mugs.
Q: Is it easy to program?
A: Yes, it comes with a digital clock and a 24-hour timer.
Q: Could I pause for a pour while brewing?
A: Yes, the carafe side has auto pause & pour.
Q: How long does it keep coffee warm?
A: If the warmer plate is on, then the coffee will be warm.
Final Thoughts
The Hamilton Beach 2 Way Coffee Maker (49980A) is one of the most versatile and affordable coffee makers in the market. It addresses a common complaint — some mornings, you need one cup; other times, you need an entire pot.
With adjustable brewing, brew strength selection, and the choice of using ground coffee or pods, this coffee machine does it all, catering to your coffee needs and personal style.
If you’re seeking a coffee maker that can do it all and not blow your budget, you’ll find a lot to love about the Hamilton Beach 2-Way 49980A.
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