Amazon Basics Dual Brew Single Serve Capsule Coffee Maker, 14 oz, Black and SS Review

Introduction

Product Overview

The Amazon Basics Dual Brew Single Serve Capsule Coffee Maker is a versatile and convenient addition to any kitchen. This single-serve coffee maker offers two brewing modes, allowing you to choose between using k-cup capsules or fresh coffee grounds. It is the perfect size for kitchens, break rooms, dorm rooms, and more. Plus, it fits standard coffee cups or travel mugs ranging from 6 to 14 ounces.

Unique Features

One unique feature of this coffee maker is its 24-ounce refillable water reservoir. Although it does not have a large water reservoir like some other models, this coffee maker’s portable size and single-serve design make up for it. The removable drip tray also adds convenience and ensures easy cleanup after each brew cycle. Additionally, the coffee maker has an auto-shutoff function, providing peace of mind if you forget to turn it off.

However, it is important to note that this coffee maker is intended to be used with K-Cup style capsules. When used with defective or other style capsules, the appliance may not operate properly, potentially leading to leaks or spills.

Now, let’s take a look at what customers have to say about the Amazon Basics Dual Brew Single Serve Capsule Coffee Maker.

Customer Reviews

• Makes great coffee but injector does not puncture all brands of coffee. Update: working great just have to push down lid harder.
• Great addition to the kitchen – small footprint, easy to use, brewed coffee good, reservoir easy to fill. This product is much easier to use and clean than the large, expensive brand I have used for years. The reason for a four-star is the insert for ground coffee. The remaining used coffee grounds after making one cup are very wet and difficult to clean and dry for another cup. My solution for two small cups is to do 10 oz into a small pitcher and divide it between my spouse and me. I would like to purchase another insert, but haven’t heard anything about it being available.
• Purchased this waiting on my Keurig (which is not even 7 months of use)- blew up. This is good for a backup but like it says Basic Single serve, that’s what it is. Have to get use to it after using Keurig’s for over 8 years+
• So easy to use, very well built (solid). The price is right as well. Though built to travel, I’m using it in place of my 3rd Keurig brewer that has stopped working (i.e., I’ve had 3 that have stopped working for reasons unknown). Though the Amazon brewer has room for only one cup of water (up to 14 ounces…so that’s a good-sized cup), not having a large water reservoir is not really a great disadvantage. So if you like the K-cups, this is the coffee brewer for you, whether used at home for your daily coffee and/or taking it with you to the motel when on vacation.
• I add ground coffee. Really ingenious design! Also accepts Keurig cups, but I like the reusable basket for ground coffee. Must remember to add water each time because no reservoir. Excellent purchase for the price, unique.

Based on these reviews, it is evident that the Amazon Basics Dual Brew Single Serve Capsule Coffee Maker delivers great coffee and is easy to use. Some users have experienced difficulties with certain brands of coffee not being punctured properly, but this issue was resolved by applying more pressure to the lid. The coffee maker’s compact size and excellent performance make it an ideal choice for those looking for an affordable alternative to larger, more expensive brands.

Product Performance

The Amazon Basics Dual Brew Single Serve Capsule Coffee Maker offers a versatile and convenient brewing experience. With its dual brewing modes, you can switch between using K-cup capsules or fresh coffee grounds for traditional brewing. This makes it a great choice for those who enjoy both options or want the flexibility to switch between them.

Positive Experiences

Customers have praised this coffee maker for its ease of use and durable construction. Many have found it to be a reliable replacement for their previous brewers, even those from well-known brands. The compact design, although it only holds one cup of water, has not been a significant disadvantage for users. In fact, it is seen as a good-sized cup that is suitable for daily use or taking on vacation.

The option to use ground coffee with the reusable basket has been particularly appreciated by customers. They view it as an ingenious design feature that adds to the versatility of the coffee maker. Additionally, the affordable price of the product has been a notable factor in the positive experiences shared by customers.

Negative Experiences

A common drawback mentioned by some customers is the absence of a larger refillable water reservoir in the compact version. This means that the reservoir needs to be filled for each brew, which can be inconvenient for those who prefer a continuous brewing experience. Some users have expressed difficulty pouring water into the small reservoir without spillage, requiring the use of a tool with a small spout.

Other negative experiences include the initial plastic taste that required several rounds of water to eliminate, as well as the difficulty in positioning taller mugs on the plastic drip tray. These issues, however, did not greatly affect the overall satisfaction with the coffee maker.

Despite a few minor drawbacks, the Amazon Basics Dual Brew Single Serve Capsule Coffee Maker has been widely regarded as a reliable and cost-effective option for single-serve brewing. While it may not have all the advanced features of higher-end models, it serves its purpose well and provides a satisfying coffee experience.

Ease of Use

Convenient Design

The Amazon Basics Dual Brew Single Serve Capsule Coffee Maker is designed with convenience in mind. Whether you’re brewing a cup of coffee in your kitchen, break room, or dorm room, this single-serve coffee maker is the perfect companion. Its compact size and sleek black and stainless steel finish make it a stylish addition to any space.

One of the standout features of this coffee maker is its dual brewing modes. You have the option to switch between convenient K-cup capsule brewing or using fresh coffee grounds for a more traditional brewing experience. This gives you the flexibility to enjoy your favorite coffee however you like it.

The coffee maker is also designed to accommodate standard coffee cups or travel mugs, with a capacity ranging from 6 to 14 ounces. This means you can brew coffee for yourself at home or take it with you on the go.

Simplified Operation

Using the Amazon Basics Dual Brew Single Serve Capsule Coffee Maker is incredibly easy. It is equipped with a 24-ounce refillable water reservoir, allowing you to make multiple cups of coffee without the need for constant refilling. The removable drip tray ensures easy cleanup, and the auto-shutoff function ensures that the brew cycle is complete before the machine turns off.

Customers have praised the simplicity and user-friendly nature of this coffee maker. One reviewer mentioned that it is so easy to use and very well built. Another customer mentioned that despite its single-cup water capacity, the absence of a larger water reservoir did not pose a significant disadvantage.

the Amazon Basics Dual Brew Single Serve Capsule Coffee Maker offers a convenient and simplified brewing experience. Whether you prefer K-cups or fresh coffee grounds, this coffee maker is a reliable and easy-to-use option for your daily cup of joe.

Durability

Well-built Construction

The Amazon Basics Dual Brew Single Serve Capsule Coffee Maker is known for its solid and sturdy construction. Users have praised the machine for its durability, especially considering its affordable price. The coffee maker is designed with high-quality materials that ensure it can withstand regular use without showing signs of wear and tear.

Comparative Longevity

While the durability of the Amazon Basics Dual Brew Single Serve Capsule Coffee Maker is generally praised, some users have reported issues with its longevity. One reviewer mentioned that the machine worked flawlessly for about 90 days, brewing an average of three cups per day. However, after this period, the coffee maker stopped filling the cup properly, only reaching about a quarter of the way. Despite attempts to clean the machine with vinegar, the issue persisted.

It is important to note that this reviewer’s experience may not be representative of the product’s overall longevity. Other users have reported longer-lasting performance, with the coffee maker functioning well for extended periods.

while the Amazon Basics Dual Brew Single Serve Capsule Coffee Maker is generally well-built and durable, it is important to keep in mind that individual experiences may vary.

Water Reservoir

Small Capacity

The Amazon Basics Dual Brew Single Serve Capsule Coffee Maker comes with a small 24 ounce refillable water reservoir. While this capacity may be suitable for individuals or small households, it may not be ideal for those who require multiple cups of coffee throughout the day or prefer a larger reservoir for convenience.

Some users mentioned that they had to refill the reservoir for each brew, which can be inconvenient. If you have tall mugs, pouring the water from the mug into the small reservoir can be a challenge, often resulting in spills on the counter. However, if you have smaller mugs, this may not be an issue.

Implications on Usage

The smaller water reservoir of this coffee maker may require some adjustments to your brewing routine. While it may be manageable for individuals or those who only need a few cups per day, it is important to consider the frequency and volume of coffee that you consume before making a purchase.

If you are a forgetful person or prefer a machine that turns itself off after each cup, the auto-shutoff function of this coffee maker can be a convenient feature. Additionally, the option to use either k-cup capsules or fresh coffee grounds provides flexibility to cater to your taste preferences.

while the small capacity of the water reservoir may have implications on usage, this compact coffee maker offers various brewing options and is well-suited for individuals or small households looking for a cost-effective solution that doesn’t take up much counter space.

Compatibility

Suitable for Different Coffee Options

The Amazon Basics Dual Brew Single Serve Capsule Coffee Maker offers versatile compatibility with various coffee options, making it a convenient choice for every coffee enthusiast. Whether you prefer the ease of using K-Cup capsules or the traditional brewing method with fresh coffee grounds, this coffee maker has you covered. Switch between the two brewing modes effortlessly, allowing you to enjoy your favorite coffee just the way you like it.

The single-serve design of this coffee maker makes it an ideal addition to any kitchen, break room, or even dorm room. It fits standard coffee cups as well as travel mugs, accommodating a range of sizes from 6 to 14 ounces. The 24 ounce refillable water reservoir ensures you have enough water for multiple brews without the need for frequent refills.

Limitations and Considerations

It is important to note some limitations and considerations when using the Amazon Basics Dual Brew Coffee Maker. Firstly, ensure that you use K-Cup style capsules specifically designed for this machine, as using defective or other style capsules may result in the appliance not operating properly. This could potentially lead to leaks or hot liquid and coffee spills.

Additionally, the product description highlights that proper brewing pressure requires a fine grind, adequate amount of coffee, and proper tamping of the grounds. Failure to adhere to these guidelines may result in inadequate pressure for a proper brew. It is also worth mentioning that the amount of espresso extracted may vary depending on the grind size and amount, requiring potential reprogramming when adjustments are made.

Despite these considerations, customers have generally praised the Amazon Basics Dual Brew Single Serve Capsule Coffee Maker for its performance and value. Many users have appreciated its compact size, ease of use, and the option to brew directly into different-sized mugs. There have been some concerns regarding the wetness of the used coffee grounds and the smaller water reservoir in certain models, but overall, the positive customer reviews establish this coffee maker as a reliable and cost-effective choice.

Pros and Cons

Advantages

• Versatile Brewing Options: The Amazon Basics Dual Brew Single Serve Capsule Coffee Maker offers the convenience of both k-cup capsule brewing and traditional brewing with fresh coffee grounds. This gives you the flexibility to choose your preferred brewing method based on your taste and preference.
• Compact and Portable Design: With its single-serve design, this coffee maker is perfect for kitchens, break rooms, dorm rooms, and more. It easily fits standard coffee cups or travel mugs ranging from 6 to 14 ounces. The compact size also makes it easy to store and transport.
• Easy to Clean: The removable drip tray allows for easy cleanup, ensuring that your brewing area remains tidy and free from any spills or messes. Additionally, the auto-shutoff function after the brew cycle is complete adds an extra layer of convenience and safety.

Disadvantages

• Limited Durability: Some users have reported that the coffee maker stopped filling the cup properly after approximately 90 days of use. Although cleaning was attempted to fix the issue, it did not resolve the problem. This suggests a potential durability issue with the product.
• Compatibility Issues: While the coffee maker accepts both k-cup capsules and fresh coffee grounds, there have been reports that the injector does not puncture all brands of coffee capsules. This may limit the variety of coffee capsules that can be used with the machine.
• Lack of Convenience Features: Unlike some other coffee makers in the market, this Amazon Basics model does not have a larger refillable water reservoir. This means that the reservoir needs to be filled for each brew, which may be inconvenient for some users.
• Plastic Taste and Size Limitation: Some users have experienced a plastic taste in their initial batches of coffee, requiring multiple rinses to eliminate the taste. Additionally, the diameter of the plastic drip tray may not accommodate larger cups, making it difficult to position them perfectly.

Despite these disadvantages, the Amazon Basics Dual Brew Single Serve Capsule Coffee Maker offers versatility, convenience, and ease of use at an affordable price. It is a suitable option for those seeking a compact and portable coffee maker for their daily brewing needs.

Conclusion

Final Thoughts

The Amazon Basics Dual Brew Single Serve Capsule Coffee Maker is a convenient and user-friendly coffee maker that offers dual brewing modes. You can switch between using k-cup capsules or fresh coffee grounds for your preferred brewing method. With its single-serve design, it is perfect for kitchens, break rooms, dorm rooms, and more.

Recommendation

Based on customer reviews, this coffee maker is a great addition to any kitchen. It has a small footprint, making it ideal for limited countertop space. Users have praised its ease of use and the quality of the coffee it brews. The reservoir is also easy to fill, and the removable drip tray allows for easy cleanup.

However, some users have experienced difficulties when using the insert for ground coffee. The remaining used coffee grounds can be wet and difficult to clean and dry for another cup. It is suggested to do a double brew of 10 ounces into a small pitcher and divide it between two cups as a solution.

In terms of compatibility, the machine works flawlessly with official k-cups. However, it may not handle alternative k-cups, such as those marketed as “eco friendly,” very well. The needle may not puncture them properly, resulting in overflowing and ruined cups of coffee.

Overall, if you stick to genuine vacuum seal k-cups or use the reusable filter, this machine is a good choice. It is affordable, well-built, and easy to use. Just keep in mind the potential compatibility issues with certain k-cups.

Please note that this product is intended to be used with K-Cup style capsules. Using defective or other style capsules may cause the appliance to not operate properly, potentially leading to leaks or spills.