Coffee is an essential part of many people’s morning routine, providing a much-needed jolt of caffeine to start the day.
However, for those with limited counter space in their kitchens, finding a suitable coffee maker can be a challenge.
Fortunately, under-cabinet coffee makers offer a space-saving solution that can help streamline your morning routine.
In this blog post, we will be exploring the best under-cabinet coffee makers on the market, highlighting their features and benefits to help you find the perfect compact coffee maker for your needs.
Whether you’re a single-serve enthusiast or need a pot to brew for a crowd, we’ve got you covered with five top options to choose from.
So, let’s dive in and discover the best under-cabinet coffee maker for your home!
At A Glance: The Top 5 Options For The Best Under Cabinet Coffee Maker
- Our Favorite Choice: SHARDOR 10-Cup Programmable Coffee Maker
- The Runner-Up: OXO 8-cup Stainless Steel Coffee Maker
- Best Budget Option: MR. Coffee 5-Cup Programmable Coffee Maker
- Best Customizability: Hamilton Beach 12 Cup Programmable Coffee Maker
- Best Compact Option: Keurig K-Supreme Coffee Maker
Hanging a carafe filled with hot coffee under the pressure of a cabinet may not be the most advisable option.
However, there are alternative ways to save space on your countertop and still enjoy a delicious cup of coffee to kick off your day.
That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the best coffee makers that can be mounted under cabinets.
Let’s explore our top picks and discover the perfect coffee maker that meets your needs!
More About Electric Under The Cabinet Coffee Makers
Electric coffee makers have revolutionized the process of brewing coffee, making it as easy as pressing a button.
There is an abundance of electric coffee makers to choose from, but the best options for under-the-counter use are typically smaller, beginner-level drip coffee makers.
What makes these coffee makers stand out is the vast array of brands, designs, materials, colors, and price points available.
With so many choices, even the most minimalistic coffee drinker can find a suitable compact coffee maker that meets their needs.
In our selection of electric under-the-counter coffee makers, we’ve included options with varying price points and features to cater to a range of preferences.
So whether you’re a picky coffee drinker or looking for a budget-friendly option, there’s a perfect fit for you.
The 5 Best Picks For The Best Under Cabinet Coffee Maker
In this section, we’ll dive into the 5 best under cabinet coffee maker options and highlight their unique features and benefits.
So, let’s get started and discover the best compact coffee maker for your needs!
1. SHARDOR 10-Cup Programmable Coffee Maker: Our Favorite Choice
SHARDOR is a specialized kitchen small appliance brand known for its quality burr coffee grinders, electric blade coffee grinders, hand mixers, and drip coffee makers.
The brand is dedicated to developing and launching durable cooking tools constantly.
One of their standout products is the SHARDOR 10-Cup Programmable Coffee Maker, which features a smart touchscreen with an LCD screen and touch screen for easy and intuitive start time and strength setting selection.
The coffee maker is also programmable, allowing you to easily set the brewing time up to 24 hours in advance to ensure hot coffee is ready when you need it.
The brewing strength adjustment feature enables you to choose regular or bold coffee, and the keep-warm and auto-off function keeps your fresh brew warm for up to 2 hours and automatically shuts off the unit in case you forget to turn it off when rushing out the door.
It’s important to note that when there is no coffee in the glass pot, it should not be placed on the coffee machine to keep warm.
The SHARDOR 10-Cup Programmable Coffee Maker has an easy-view water window that ensures you have the right water-to-coffee ratio for your desired taste.
The anti-drip system and pause-and-serve function allow you to pause and pour mid-brew without making a mess.
The stainless steel coffee maker has a removable filter basket, carafe lid, and touchscreen panel, making it easy to clean.
The permanent filter and measuring spoon are also included, eliminating the need for paper filters and allowing you to pour your desired amount of fresh-ground coffee directly into the unit.
Made from durable stainless steel, this coffee machine is built to withstand frequent and long-term use.
It’s an anticorrosive material that does not rust and is ideal for producing a machine that will be exposed to water or liquids.
This unit will last for a long time and be well worth the price.
With dimensions of 10.8 by 7.7 by 14.9 inches, the SHARDOR 10-Cup Programmable Coffee Maker is a compact machine that won’t take up too much space on your countertop.
Its 7.7-inch width means it will fit in smaller spaces on your counter, with the only element that sticks out is the handle of the coffee jug.
Overall, this coffee maker is a reliable and efficient addition to any coffee lover’s kitchen.
Pros
- Touchscreen control for easy cleaning and no risk of button breakage
- Programmable brewing up to 24 hours in advance for effortless fresh coffee in the morning
- Permanent filter and measuring spoon eliminate the need for paper filters and reduce daily waste
- Produces delicious coffee
- Easy to operate
- Excellent value for the cost
Cons
- The coffee lid adds extra height to the machine, which may require additional space under cabinets.
2. OXO 8-cup Stainless Steel Coffee Maker: The Runner-Up
The OXO Brew 8-Cup Coffee Maker is a sleek and compact machine with a polished and modern stainless steel design.
Its simple and intuitive navigation is made easy with only two buttons on its base and a lever on the front of the filter basket to select the batch size.
Setup only takes 15 minutes and the machine brews amazing single-serve and large-batch drip coffee that meets the Specialty Coffee Association’s standards.
The machine’s rainmaker shower head evenly distributes water over all of the coffee grounds for the best extraction and flavor.
Brewing time takes about seven to eight minutes for a full 8-cup batch of coffee. The single-serve feature is also a plus, allowing users to make a small amount of coffee for two-person households.
Cleaning the machine is straightforward, with most of the removable parts being dishwasher-safe. The machine retails for around $170, making it a great value for its quality and features.
The only downside is that filtered water must be used to fill the water reservoir as the machine doesn’t come with a water filter system.
Also, it’s important to mention that due to the water reservoir being located at the back of the machine, you may need to move the OXO coffee maker from under your cabinet since the lid adds significant height to it.
However, once you have filled the reservoir, stored everything away, and are ready to brew, the controls located at the front of the machine are easy to see, eliminating the need to blindly search for them on the side.
Overall, the OXO Brew 8-Cup Coffee Maker is a quality machine well worth the price.
Its design, performance, ease of use, and cleaning make it one of the best drip coffee makers on the market.
It’s no wonder this machine made it to the list, as it offers a quality cup of coffee along with all the desired features.
Pros
- Sleek and minimal design
- Easy to use
- Brews excellent drip coffee
- Can make both single-serve and large batches
Cons
- Does not have a water filter system
- The water reservoir is not removable
3. MR. Coffee 5-Cup Programmable Coffee Maker: Best Budget Option
The Mr. Coffee 5-Cup Programmable Coffee Maker is a perfect blend of functionality and aesthetics, designed to cater to the needs of small households and compact spaces.
With ounce markings, measuring coffee has never been easier, and the 2-hour auto-shutoff feature offers convenience and safety.
The Brew Later feature allows users to schedule a brewing cycle in advance, ensuring a fresh cup of coffee at any time of day.
The inclusion of the Mr. Coffee Water Filtration disk and frame ensures the production of better-tasting coffee, and the red tab on the disk frame indicates the need for a filter change.
Additional features include a reusable coffee filter, Grab-a-Cup Auto Pause that allows users to pour a cup mid-brew, an easy-view Water Window to prevent overflow, and a Lift & Clean Filter Basket that is dishwasher safe for easy cleaning.
The ergonomic carafe is designed for easy pouring and handling, while the sleek and minimalistic design adds an aesthetic touch to any kitchen.
Founded in 1970, Mr. Coffee has been producing quality coffee makers for American households, and the Mr. Coffee 5-Cup Coffee Maker is a testament to their expertise.
If you need a larger capacity coffee maker, Mr. Coffee also offers the 12-cup model.
Overall, the Mr. Coffee 5-Cup Programmable Coffee Maker is a reliable and practical choice for those who want quality coffee without sacrificing counter space.
Pros
- This compact coffee maker is a great basic option at a reasonable price.
- It is easy to use and consistently produces great coffee.
- Its small size makes it perfect for single-person use.
- Looks pretty sleek and minimalistic which we love
Cons
- Left-handed users may find the hinged lid opening to the right to be awkward.
- It can be easy to accidentally hit the ON button and stop the brewing process.
- The filter basket is noticeably narrower compared to previous models of Mr. Coffee machines.
4. Hamilton Beach 12 Cup Programmable Coffee Maker: Best Option For Customizability
The Hamilton Beach 12 Cup Programmable Coffee Maker is a great option for those who want a simple and convenient coffee maker for their daily needs.
One of its standout features is the FrontFill water reservoir and swing-open brew basket, which allows for easy access and makes it simpler to add water and coffee grounds.
Plus, the swing-out brew basket opens from the front and is designed for easy cleaning, making maintenance a breeze.
The Easy-Touch programming feature allows you to program the coffee maker up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring that you have hot coffee ready and waiting when you wake up in the morning.
Additionally, the Select-a-Brew brew-strength selector lets you customize the strength of your coffee, whether you prefer it regular, bold or with a 1-4 cup option.
For added convenience and peace of mind, this drip coffee maker also features an auto-shutoff function that turns off the machine after 2 hours, so you never have to worry about leaving it on when you’re not home.
This coffee maker is also designed for easy maintenance, with cleaning reminders that let you know when it’s time to run the self-cleaning cycle.
It also fits Hamilton Beach 80674R water filters (sold separately), which can improve the quality of your coffee.
Made from rust-resistant glass and plastic materials, this unit is durable and built to last.
Plus, with its compact dimensions of 7.95 by 12.9 by 13.9 inches, it won’t take up too much counter space and will reduce clutter in your kitchen.
Overall, the Hamilton Beach 12 Cup Programmable Coffee Maker is a great option for those who want a simple and convenient coffee maker that is designed to make their life easier.
With thoughtful features and durable materials, it’s sure to be a reliable and long-lasting addition to any kitchen.
Pros
- This unit is easily programmable, allowing you to prepare your coffee beforehand.
- The automatic shutoff will ensure the coffee maker is turned off after some time, preventing any disasters.
- The coffee machine can be filled from the front, without adding additional height to the machine.
- The AutoPause & Pour feature allows you to pour a cup of coffee while the brewing process is still ongoing.
Cons
- With something like buttons, there is always the risk that they can be pushed too hard and will sink into the machine.
5. Keurig K-Supreme Coffee Maker: Best Compact Option
If you’re in the market for a coffee maker that won’t break the bank and are familiar with the brand Keurig, you might want to consider the K-Supreme Coffee Maker.
Keurig is a popular manufacturer of both coffee machines and coffee pods.
The Keurig K-Supreme Coffee Maker is a mid-range machine that balances price and features, making it an excellent choice for coffee lovers who want customization without paying a premium.
The machine offers four brew sizes, which include 6, 8, 10, or 12 ounces of water, but the larger brews may be diluted.
The Strong button allows for a fuller extraction and bold brew. The Over Ice button compensates for dilution when brewed over melting ice cubes, making it perfect for iced coffee.
The Keurig K-Supreme is the first to feature MultiStream Technology, which punches five holes in the top of the K-Cup to inject hot water, providing an even saturation of the ground coffee in the K-Cup pod for improved extraction and richer aroma.
The machine is compatible with hundreds of K-Cup pods, including flavored coffee, tea, chai latte, and hot cocoa, and can also be used with Keurig’s My K-Cup Universal Reusable Coffee Filter.
This gives you the flexibility to utilize ground coffee from other brands as well, thereby increasing its versatility.
Several well-known coffee brands such as McCafé, Starbucks, and Dunkin also offer Keurig-compatible coffee, which can be used in your K-Supreme Coffee Maker with the help of the reusable filter.
This expands your coffee choices, allowing you to enjoy a more extensive selection of coffee flavors.
The push-button interface is straightforward, and clean-up is easy, with an automatic descale alert after 250 brews.
The reservoir of this coffee maker has a convenient dual-position feature that can be easily moved to create more counter space when necessary.
Additionally, the reservoir can be easily removed, allowing for easy cleaning around the coffee maker and effortless refilling.
The coffee brewing system is constructed using both plastic and metal components, ensuring its durability and ability to withstand frequent use.
The plastic material is resistant to water erosion, while the metal parts have been treated to prevent rusting and corrosion.
The K-Supreme is compact, standing at 12.15” by 7.85” by 12.02”, and is available in black, white, or gray.
The Keurig K-Supreme offers customization without being overwhelming, making it an excellent mid-range choice for coffee lovers.
Pros
- MultiStream Technology enhances the coffee quality
- Adjustable brew strength
- Easy to operate and maintain
- Dual-position water reservoir for convenient use
- Reminder to descale after every 250 brews to ensure optimal performance
Cons
- K-Cups may not produce the highest quality coffee
- No option to regulate the brew temperature
Buying Guide For Choosing The Best Under Cabinet Coffee Maker
Before purchasing your ideal under-the-cabinet coffee maker, there are several factors to consider.
With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to determine which machine or brewing method suits you best.
Each coffee lover will have unique preferences regarding their ideal coffee maker.
If you are undecided between different options, here are some essential points to keep in mind:
Size
Size is an important factor to consider when purchasing an under cabinet coffee maker.
Since this type of coffee maker is designed to be mounted under a cabinet, it is essential to measure the available space in your kitchen to ensure that the unit will fit properly.
It’s important to note that under cabinet coffee makers come in different sizes and shapes, so it’s important to find the right fit for your kitchen.
Some models are slim and compact, while others are more bulky and take up more space.
You’ll want to consider the size of the unit, as well as the height of your cabinets and the space between the counter and the cabinet, to ensure that the coffee maker will fit and function properly.
Additionally, you’ll want to consider the size of the carafe or cup that the coffee maker can accommodate.
If you have a large family or entertain guests frequently, you’ll want to choose a model that can brew enough coffee to meet your needs.
However, if you only need a single cup of coffee in the morning, a smaller unit may be more suitable.
Overall, it’s important to carefully consider the size of an under cabinet coffee maker before purchasing to ensure that it fits both your available space and your coffee brewing needs.
Brewing Method
There are various brewing methods, including drip coffee, espresso, French press, and more, and each one produces a different taste and aroma.
If you prefer drip coffee, then a standard under cabinet coffee maker will suffice.
However, if you enjoy the strong taste and rich aroma of espresso, then you may want to consider an under cabinet espresso machine.
Similarly, if you prefer a more hands-on brewing process, a French press under cabinet coffee maker might be more your style.
It’s essential to keep in mind that different brewing methods also come with varying degrees of complexity and time consumption.
While an espresso machine may produce high-quality coffee, it may take longer to prepare and require more maintenance than a standard drip coffee maker.
Therefore, when considering the preferred brewing method, it’s crucial to evaluate the level of convenience and maintenance required to maintain the machine’s quality and longevity.
Programmable Features
When considering an under cabinet coffee maker, programmable features are an important factor to consider.
These features allow you to set your preferred brewing time and strength, and some even have an auto-start function, so you can wake up to a freshly brewed cup of coffee.
Some programmable features to look for include the ability to set a specific brewing time, a timer that allows you to schedule brewing for later, and the ability to adjust the strength of the coffee.
Some machines also have a pause-and-serve feature that allows you to pour a cup of coffee mid-brew.
It’s important to consider which programmable features are important to you and your lifestyle.
For example, if you have a busy schedule, a coffee maker with an auto-start function can be a convenient option.
If you prefer to customize your brewing process, look for a machine with more advanced programmable features.
Overall, when buying an under cabinet coffee maker, it’s important to consider which programmable features will best suit your needs and lifestyle.
Build Quality
A good quality coffee maker should be durable and able to withstand frequent use.
The materials used in the construction of the coffee maker can affect its longevity and overall performance.
Coffee makers made with high-quality materials such as stainless steel and durable plastics tend to last longer and resist wear and tear.
It’s also important to consider the quality of the components such as the brewing basket and the water reservoir.
The build quality of an under cabinet coffee maker can also affect its ease of use and maintenance.
A well-constructed machine will have easily accessible parts, making it easy to clean and perform maintenance tasks.
Additionally, a sturdy and well-built machine will be less prone to leaks and other malfunctions that can disrupt your morning routine.
Overall, when considering the build quality of an under-cabinet coffee maker, it’s important to look for a machine made with high-quality materials and well-designed components.
Investing in a well-built coffee maker will ensure a great cup of coffee and save you money in the long run by avoiding frequent replacements and repairs.
Glass Or Thermal Carafe
When choosing a coffee maker, you may have the option of a glass carafe with a heat plate or an insulated, thermal carafe.
Each option has its advantages and disadvantages.
Glass carafes keep your coffee hot on the hotplate and produce a clean-tasting brew.
However, if the hotplate doesn’t have a sensitive thermostat, the coffee can burn if it’s left on the plate for too long.
Thermal carafes avoid the issue of burnt coffee and keep your coffee warm due to the insulated walls.
However, these carafes need to be preheated with hot water before brewing, or the coffee will cool down quickly when it’s first poured.
Budget
These machines come in various price ranges, and it’s important to find one that fits your budget.
However, it’s important to remember that a lower price tag may mean sacrificing some features or build quality.
If you’re on a tight budget, you may want to consider a straightforward under cabinet coffee maker that doesn’t have too many bells and whistles.
On the other hand, if you have a higher budget, you can look for models with more advanced features like programmable brewing, multiple brewing options, and higher capacity.
Regardless of your budget, it’s always a good idea to do your research and read reviews to ensure that you’re getting the best value for your money.
Keep in mind that a higher price doesn’t always mean a better product, and you may be able to find a great under cabinet coffee maker that fits both your budget and your needs.
What Are The Benefits Of An Under Cabinet Coffee Maker?
An under cabinet coffee maker can have several benefits, such as saving valuable counter space in the kitchen.
By installing the coffee maker under a cabinet, you can free up countertop space and make your kitchen look more organized.
Additionally, an under cabinet coffee maker can be more convenient as it allows for easy access to coffee without having to move the machine from its place.
Some models also have programmable features so that you can wake up to a freshly brewed cup of coffee in the morning.
Furthermore, an under cabinet coffee maker can be a great option for small kitchens or offices where space is limited.
What Makes Under Cabinet Coffee Makers Unique?
The type of brewing system used by the under cabinet coffee maker can greatly influence your decision to purchase.
You’ll need to consider if you prefer machines that work with coffee pods, whole beans, or ground coffee.
It’s important to note that different brands use varying systems, so you should ensure that the machine you select is compatible with the coffee type you prefer.
Moreover, the size of the coffee maker can vary. Some models are more compact and do not include a milk frother.
Meanwhile, larger models are capable of holding more water and can produce different types of coffee, such as cappuccinos and lattes, which may not be possible with smaller units.
Final Words
Having an under cabinet coffee maker can be a game-changer in saving counter space and making your morning routine more efficient.
With the variety of options available on the market, it’s important to consider factors such as preferred brewing method, programmable features, build quality, and budget when making a purchase.
Additionally, the choice between a glass or thermal carafe can also impact your decision.
By weighing these factors and considering our top 5 recommendations for compact under cabinet coffee makers, you can find the perfect machine to fit your needs and elevate your coffee experience.
FAQ’s
What should I put under a coffee maker?
A heat-resistant mat or tray is ideal to put under a coffee maker to protect your countertop from any spills or drips.
Additionally, a non-slip mat can also help to keep your coffee maker stable on your countertop.
How do I protect my coffee maker from steaming my cabinets?
To prevent damage to your cabinets from the heat and steam generated by your coffee maker, you may want to consider installing a heat shield.
These thermal barriers work by diverting the heat and steam away from your cabinets, and they can be an affordable solution to protect your cabinets.
Which personal coffee maker is best for home?
The best personal coffee maker for a home depends on your personal preferences.
Some popular options include single-serve coffee makers like Keurig and Nespresso, as well as pour-over coffee makers like Chemex and Hario V60.
What type of coffee maker is the most popular?
Drip coffee makers are the most popular type of coffee maker.
They are easy to use, affordable, and can brew large quantities of coffee at once.
Some popular brands include Breville, Cuisinart, and Bonavita.
What is the best coffee machine on the market today?
Some popular high-end coffee machines include the Breville Oracle Touch and the Jura E8, while some affordable options include the Bonavita BV1900TS and the Cuisinart DCC-3200P1.
Do more expensive coffee makers make better coffee?
Not necessarily.
While more expensive coffee makers may have advanced features and technology, the quality of the coffee ultimately depends on the quality of the beans, the grind size, and the water-to-coffee ratio.
A skilled barista can make excellent coffee with a simple coffee maker, while an inexperienced user may not be able to make good coffee even with an expensive coffee maker.
Is it OK to put a coffee maker under the cabinet?
It is generally safe to put a coffee maker under a cabinet, but it is important to ensure there is enough clearance for the machine to operate properly and for any steam or heat to dissipate.
It is recommended to leave at least 6 inches of clearance between the top of the coffee maker and the bottom of the cabinet.
Additionally, make sure the cabinet is made of a heat-resistant material and not susceptible to warping or damage from the heat and moisture produced by the coffee maker.
Finally, always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and safety guidelines to ensure proper use and prevent any potential hazards.
