Nothing like waking up in the morning with a cup of delicious coffee to start the day, right? Nowadays, you have so many ways to brew the perfect cup. From espresso machines to K-cup coffee makers, it’s hard to find the best 2-way coffee maker for your situation.
That’s why 2-way coffee makers were invented. These are coffee makers that have two functions. Usually, those two functions are the traditional carafe route (you know, ground coffee in a filter that drips into a large pot) or a K-cup, which can give you a single serving of coffee, and there are so many varieties of it.
Before you look for an extra cup of joe to process this, let’s look at the best dual coffee makers.
What Should I Look for When Buying a 2-Way Coffee Maker?
It’s what you’re going to start your morning off using, so it makes sense that you want to do a little digging before you decide which coffee maker works well for you. Here are some features to look out for.
What Two Ways Are Offered?
Typically, the two-way coffee maker has the traditional carafe method as well as a single-serve K-cup brewer. However, others may offer the ability to make espresso, iced coffee, or the ability to dispense hot water to make some tea.
How Much Can It Make?
Typically, the carafe part of the dual coffee maker is your average 12 cup size. However, you may need more or less depending on family size or how much coffee you make in a day.
Obviously, the more coffee that coffee makers can serve, the bigger the machine will be. Sometimes, you may have the space to fit it. However, if you live in a small home, you may consider a more compact one.
How Many Ways Can You Program It?
A coffee maker typically has several ways to program it. There’s the delay timer, which allows you to make the coffee before you go to bed, then the coffee maker brews it whenever you wake up. This method works well for most people, but some allow you to make a bolder brew. Others let you choose how much you want to make.
Display
A dual coffee maker tends to have a digital display that shows the time and what programming options you have. In addition, the clock will have its own method of setting it. Some methods are easier than others, but in general, it’s not too complicated.
Maintenance
You are going to have to clean the coffee machine every now and then. Sometimes, it’s easy to do, and others make it more complicated. Some coffee makers have a cleaning option to make the process a lot easier for you. Others are a little harder to clean, making it a hassle. Make sure you learn about needed maintenance beforehand. Later on, we will give you some basic tips on how to clean your coffee maker.
Budget
A coffee machine comes in a variety of prices. Dual coffee makers typically cost more than a cheap $20 unit, but even they come in a variety of prices. Some work well for those on a budget, while others are good if you have more money to spare. Sometimes, it’s good to have a coffee machine straight out of a coffee shop, but don’t spend more than you can afford.
Warranty
Finally, look into the coffee maker’s warranty. A good dual coffee maker will come with a decent warranty, as the manufacturers have stood by their product. Others, meanwhile, may have a poor warranty that could make you think twice.
Searching for the right machine is a process that can take a while. It is a commitment, as a good coffee maker should last you for a few years. Select one that fits all of your needs, and don’t be afraid to spend a little more if you have the budget. This way, you can ensure the most quality coffee out there.
Here’s How We’ve Determined the Best Dual Coffee Maker
We looked at several dual coffee makers of all budgets and types. Everyone has a different need for coffee, and we wanted to cover the most needs as possible. In addition, we looked for coffee makers that indeed had a 2-way function. No more, no less. Finally, we looked at the reviews. What were others saying about the coffee maker?
#1: Hamilton Beach Flexbrew (Best Value - All-Purpose)
When it comes to the best dual coffee makers, this one is the right balance between value and quality, and it gives you most of what you’re looking for in a dual coffee machine. The Hamilton Beach Flexibrew has both carafe and K-Cups as an option.
The carafe portion of the Hamilton Beach Flexibrew is your 12-cups of coffee size, making it good for most situations. It’s easy to pour in the water and brew coffee grounds. With this option you can use your own coffee grounds. Grind whole beans for an even fresher start.
The same applies to the K-Cup part of the Hamilton Beach Flexibrew. For the K-Cup portion, the dispenser should fit most travel mugs, making the Hamilton Beach Flexibrew ideal if you’re on the go.
You can choose the brew strength as well, picking from regular coffee or bold for more flavor. In addition, it has a delay if you want it to make coffee when you wake up. Its display is big and is great for telling time, with a clock that is easy to set.
Overall, the Hamilton Beach Flexibrew should be the first go-to coffee maker for any situation. Reviews agree, saying that it’s a versatile dual coffee machine that’s good for most uses. Whether you’re making multiple cups of coffee or you want to make a single serve using K-cups, the Hamilton Beach Flexibrew works well for most situations.
There was a minority of negative reviews of the Hamilton Beach Flexibrew, mostly with people who have duds or people whose coffee makers started leaking after a while, but as we said, that was in the minority.
In conclusion, the Hamilton Beach Flexibrew is one of the best dual coffee makers for most people. If you just want a quality dual coffee maker that gives you the best of both worlds, the Hamilton Beach Flexibrew is here for you.
#2: K-Duo By Keurig (Best Machine)
Keurig started the K-cup phenomenon back in 1998, and they still haven’t been beat. If you are looking for the best dual/2-way coffee maker, this is the one for you. It costs a little more, sure, but you get a high-quality dual coffee maker that makes a refreshing cup of coffee everytime.
Its cup glass carafe makes up to 12 cups of coffee, and you can select from several brew sizes as well. And, of course, you can brew K-cups as well. It is compatible with its own unique Keurig filter, which allows you to brew carafe coffee again and again without having to buy new filters.
One feature that makes it one of the best coffee makers is it has a 60 ounce water reservoir. This means that you don’t have to worry about filling up the water reservoir every use. You can also remove it in order to fill it up easier. In addition, it has programmable options, including the strong brew.
Also, you can buy this programmable coffee maker with Green Mountain coffee, which is available ground or in K-Cups. Or, you can just select the coffee maker on its own if you want your own coffee to get started with.
Overall, this is one of the best dual coffee makers around, and the reviews agree. Most people say it’s one of the best dual coffee makers on the market. Others love how well it brewed their coffee. The complaints are minimal. A few people talked about the coffee maker dripping, but this was in the minority.
This one is great if you just want a higher quality coffee maker that is two-way. As we said, a coffee maker is a commitment, so you want to look for one that you’ll be happy with having for several years to come.
#3: K-Elite By Keurig (Best Two-Way Coffee Maker with Iced Coffee)
Iced coffee is a great summertime energy drink. Of course, some people love to have a cup of coffee iced any day of the year. With a hot coffee maker, you can put ice in your coffee or chill the glass carafe, but it doesn’t quite taste the same unless you have a coffee maker that can brew it from the get-go.
This coffee maker brews K-cups from 4-12 ounces, with a strong brew option as well. It even comes with a hot liquid button. It also has a large reservoir of 75 ounces. However, the main appeal of this dual coffee maker is its ability to make iced coffee with its iced setting. It’s easy to brew it over ice while keeping the flavor ready to go.
Reviews of this iced dual coffee maker are chiefly positive, with most people saying that brews hot or cold ground coffee just fine. The negative reviews mostly concern people who got leaky units, but you can get a replacement.
Overall, this is a great little machine if you are looking for a coffee maker that can brew you a refreshing cup of iced coffee. That way, you don’t have to go to the expensive shops to get a cup.
#4: Mr Coffee Dual Coffee Maker (Best Space Saving)
If you are on a budget, you need to save space, or you’re looking for a dual coffee maker, this is for you. The Mr Coffee Combo Brewer Serve gives you the option of brewing coffee grounds or K-Cups. With its filter basket, it makes up to 10 cups. It comes with a stainless steel thermal carafe to keep coffee fresh and hot for hours.
The dual coffee maker has an easy button layout, giving you the ability to program it with ease and allowing you to adjust according to the level of your cup. It also has a water reservoir you can remove as well.
Reviews of this Mr Coffee Coffee Maker have been quite positive. Most say that it’s a high-quality coffee machine if you want a nice cup of coffee, be it from ground coffee or K-Cups. It manages to serve its purpose well in both regards. The negative reviews of the Single Serve are minimal. Most are from not reading instructions or wanting more features.
Overall, the Mr. Coffee Pod Plus Cup Combo Brewer is a great product. If you want the ability to brew either a single cup or up to 10 cups, you are going to love this space saving coffee maker.
#5: Cuisinart CHW-12P1 12-Cup (Best Coffee Maker and Hot Water Dispenser)
Sometimes, you do not use K-Cups, and you may just want a coffee maker that you can use as a hot water dispenser whenever you need it. This especially applies if you need some hot water to make tea, or have another use for hot water that your sink can’t provide.
The hot water maker is on the right side, and it’s quite easy to pour it in. Once you do so, there is an indicator that will tell you when it’s ready to dispense the hot water.
The coffee part comes with several features, including the ability to control the glass carafe temperature. It also includes a “clean” button for easy maintenance. Just pour a little cleaner or vinegar into the coffee maker, and you should be ready to clean the maker with ease.
Reviews of this coffee maker are quite positive. Most say that it works just perfect for their needs. Negative reviews follow the same beats, with some people getting a dual coffee maker that was a dud.
Overall, this is a great little two way coffee maker if you are looking for some instant hot water. See “The Cuisinart CHW-12 Coffeemaker Plus Hot Water System Advantage“.
#6: Ninja Hot and Cold Brewed System CP307 (Best Coffee and Tea Brew System)
Ninja is a heralded name in the world of small appliances and it does not disappoint with the robust Ninja Hot and Cold Brewed System CP307.
This is a powerhouse when it comes to functionality, usability, and efficiency. The stainless steel design is eye-catching as it offers an output of 10 cups and does not miss a bit as soon as it is put to the test. Whether it’s time to prepare a cup of frothing coffee or delightful tea, this machine is up for the job.
Its smart basket recognition ensures the transition between coffee and tea-making is a breeze. For those who want to ensure this does not take a long time to set up, Ninja has spent months engineering the transition to be smooth with this alert system.
It is active, easy to set up, and works like a charm in all types of situations.
Features
- Stainless Steel Design
- 10 Cup Output
- Comes With Smart Basket Recognition
- Offers Separate Tea and Coffee Baskets
- Comes With 6 Brew Sizes
- Dishwasher Safe Design
- Includes Premium Brewing Technology For Different Tea/Coffee Options
- Comes with a milk frother
PROS
- The rugged stainless steel design is excellent in all types of situations
- This appliance can easily transition between making tea and coffee in seconds
- Quickly swap between different brew sizes whether you are on the go or staying at home
- The 10 cup output is perfect for those looking to create a bigger batch in one shot
- It is easy to wash when it is time to clean the machine
CONS
- It does not come with a comprehensive user manual leaving some questions unanswered
- It can lose some of its consistency when trying to make coffee for more than 3 people
- Does not come with a warming tray – however, the thermal carafe will keep your coffee hot for hours
#7: DeLonghi BCO430 Combination Pump Espresso and 10-Cup Drip Coffee (Best Espresso and Coffee Combo)
When it comes to a professional-grade coffee maker that has been engineered with the user in mind, it’s time to look at this masterpiece from DeLonghi. The BCO430 is one of those coffee makers that does it all and offers robust results in minutes.
Once it is set up, the stainless steel design is captivating and looks the part. It also comes with an output of 10 cups making it easier for those who want to have multiple cups ready to go at once.
With its 24-hour programmable timer, it’s easy to set up and get ready for an early morning coffee. For those who want to have the coffee ready to go whenever they want it to be, this is a small appliance that is always active.
Whether it’s the gold tone filter or the front-loading design, this is a coffee machine that has thought of everything.
Features
- Stainless Steel Design
- Acts As A Front-Loading Coffee Machine
- Equipped With A 24-Hour Programmable Timer
- Includes a Gold Tone Filter
- Offers a Removable Reservoir (40 Ounces)
- Provides an Output of 10 Cups
PROS
- The programmable timer is a breeze to use and acts in sync with your patterns
- The removable reservoir is robust and easy to optimize for larger batches
- It has a refined design that is easy on the eyes and looks good on the countertop
- The gold tone filter is perfect for all of your coffee-making needs
CONS
- It does not warm the milk, which means taking extra time to do it in the microwave beforehand
- It is a pricey coffee maker and requires a sizable upfront payment
- The frothing feature takes a bit of time to get used to
For a detailed review of this machine, please visit Delonghi BCO430BM Review.
On a Budget? Try These:
Need a 2-way coffee maker for cheap? Here are some 2-way coffee makers that are quite affordable for those on a lower budget.
#1 Budget: Hamilton Beach 2-Way Brewer Coffee Maker
This is a dual coffee maker that dispenses coffee in a 12 cup carafe or in a travel mug, if you so wish. It doesn’t have the ability to make coffee from cups, but it’s great if you’re on the go and want to put some coffee into your travel mug as soon as possible.
#2 Budget: Kitchen Selectives Dual Coffee Maker
This is the best dual coffee maker if you just want two carafes. It’s great for small businesses or just people who drink a lot of coffee. The reviews of this dual coffee maker are a little mixed, with all things considered, but for the price, you can’t go wrong.
#3 Budget: Bella Dual Coffee Maker
This is a small two-way coffee maker that makes ground coffee or cups. It looks great and is currently going for a great price. You may want to check it out.
The downside of cheapie makers is that they may not last as long. Sometimes, you’re better off paying double and getting one that will last you a long time. However, if you are a college student, don’t have much money, or just want a backup, these will work just fine. At the end of the day, they serve their purpose, which is to brew you a hot cup of joe that you are going to love.
How Do You Clean a Coffee Maker?
In order to brew the best coffee, be it single serve or a carafe, it’s important for you to keep it clean. There are two main types of cleaning: regular and deep.
For regular cleaning, you need to do it after every use, and you probably do it already. You need to take the filter out of the brew basket, wash the basket, then wash the carafe as well.
However, deeper cleaning is a little different. You will need to do this every three months or so if you want to brew the best coffee and if you want to prevent buildup. Some articles will tell you to clean your coffee maker every three months, while others will tell you every month. We suppose it depends on how often you drink coffee, and how good you like your coffee.
If you use the coffee maker a lot, single serve or not, you should clean the coffee machine regularly. If you don’t use the coffee maker as much, you can be a little more lenient. Let’s look at some ways to do this.
The Vinegar Method
For a traditional carafe coffee maker, you need to clean the carafe first, then put three cups of vinegar and six cups of cold water into it. Go through the brew cycle, and once you brew a potful of vinegar, turn it off and wait for 15 minutes.
Afterwards, brew two water-only cycles to get rid of the taste of vinegar. Wait 15 minutes before each cycle.
Since this article is about two-way makers, let’s look at the single serve side of things.
For the single serve side, empty it out and remove the cup. A half cup of vinegar and a cup of cold water should be put into the single serve side. Then, brew the cup. Turn off the maker when it’s done and let the vinegar stay in the single serve side for 15 minutes.
Afterwards, brew two water cycles in the single serve side, separated by 15 minutes.
Soap and Water
You should not soak your coffee maker, single serve or not, in water. We don’t need you to tell you why. However, it’s worth it to wipe down the coffee machine every now and then. In addition, any removable part should be washed with soap and water, or put in the dishwasher.
You should always clean your coffee maker regularly. (You’d be surprised at how many people don’t.) Now only can it make the coffee taste worse if you don’t clean it out regularly, but it may cause a buildup of germs. Even mold. Gross! Cleaning your coffee maker will ensure you that you have the best testing coffee every time, be it a big pot or a single serve.
What Does Regular vs Bold Brew Mean?
If you buy these coffee makers, you may notice that they have an option to brew the coffee regularly or bold. You may wonder what the difference is.
It all depends on how strong you like your coffee. With the bold setting, the water drips slower. This means that you will get more flavor from every cup. Meanwhile, regular goes faster, but you may not get as much flavor. We recommend that you try both flavors out to see which one is the best for you.
How Much Money Can You Save Making Coffee at Home?
Some people buy coffee at a coffee shop every day. You even have some who get a deluxe Starbucks espresso every morning before they go to work. Getting coffee at a shop on occasion can be fun, but if you are doing it every day, you may want to reconsider. You could be wasting tons of money on overpriced coffee.
It all depends on how often you drink coffee in a restaurant. If you drink it every day, you could be saving hundreds every month. $4 cups of coffee can add up. In a year, you could be saving over a grand. Considering how much ground coffee and a coffee maker costs, there is little startup fee, either.
This isn’t to say you can’t enjoy the occasional Pumpkin Spice Latte or other specialty drinks at Starbucks (we certainly are getting one when the autumn air hits), but be a little more mindful of how often you’re going to the coffee store.
Verdict: Your Best Dual Coffee Makers
We chugged the entire 12 cup carafe looking for the best dual coffee maker, but we believe we found seven good ones. Whether you’re looking for a single serve, espresso, iced, or hot water, these dual coffee makers can get the job done. Let’s list them again.
First, the Hamilton Beach Flexbrew. This is a dual coffee maker that allows you to brew ground coffee in a 12 cup carafe or a single serve K-cup. It has features that should satisfy most coffee lovers, so check it out if you need a good two-way.
Second is the K-Duo. This is the best dual coffee maker for your money if you want ground coffee in a carafe and a single-serve K-Cup. It lasts the longest and is from Keurig, which is always a plus.
Third, there’s the K-Elite. If you are looking for the best dual coffee maker that can brew iced coffee, you can’t go wrong with this one.
Fourth, we have the Mr Coffee Dual Space Saving Coffee Maker. This is a budget two-way coffee maker. It can’t espresso, but it can brew coffee from either ground coffee or a K-Cup. All for a price that won’t break your bank.
Fifth, there’s the Cuisinart CHW-12P1 12-Cup. We recommend this one if you want to brew not just coffee in a carafe, but also make some hot water. This is great for tea, especially if you want to brew a single serve amount of tea. Check it out.
Sixth, is the Ninja Hot and Cold Brewed System CP307. This ideal if you enjoy both hot and cold coffee or tea.
Finally, we have the Delonghi BC0430BM Espresso Coffee Combo Machine. We recommend this one if you want variety. From lattes, cappuccino and espresso, in addition to just tasty coffee, you can have it all with one machine.
And there you go. Choosing the perfect coffee maker is important, whether you brew a single serve or in a carafe.
Finding a coffee maker that can give you some variety and is well-made means you’ll have one that lasts a long time. Plus, brewing coffee at home instead of buying it at a coffee shop every day can save you lots of money.
Here’s hoping you find the right coffee maker for you to brew the perfect cup. Good luck!