Counter space is a precious commodity in any kitchen, and a bulky coffee maker can monopolize it entirely. For those who love their daily brew but need to keep their workspace clear and functional, the solution lies in a smart, space-saving design. An under-cabinet or compact coffee maker can be a game-changer, offering full functionality without the footprint.
This roundup is dedicated to the best under-cabinet and small-footprint coffee makers available. We’ve curated a list of models that prioritize a slim profile, clever storage, or a compact build. Whether you’re a single-serve K-Cup enthusiast, a fan of a classic carafe, or someone who values versatility, there is a space-saving coffee maker here to fit your routine and your kitchen’s layout perfectly.
Our Top Space-Saving Coffee Maker Picks
- Keurig K-Mini Plus Single Serve K-Cup Pod Coffee Maker
- Keurig K-Slim Single Serve K-Cup Pod Coffee Maker
- BLACK+DECKER CM0700BZ 4-in-1 5-Cup Coffee Station
- Ninja CFP201 DualBrew System 12-Cup Coffee Maker
- Cuisinart 12-Cup Programmable PerfecTemp Thermal Carafe
- Bonavita 8 Cup Coffee Maker with Thermal Carafe
- Hamilton Beach The Scoop Single Serve Coffee Maker
- Cuisinart 4 Cup w/Stainless-Steel Carafe Coffeemaker
- CE251 12-Cup Glass Carafe Pot Replacement for Ninja
- Mr. Coffee 4-Cup Switch Coffee Maker
Keurig K-Mini Plus Single Serve K-Cup Pod Coffee Maker
Ideal for the tightest of spaces, the Keurig K-Mini Plus is less than five inches wide. Its slim profile allows it to tuck neatly under cabinets or into a small corner, making it a perfect choice for apartments, dorm rooms, or office nooks. The machine comes with a pod storage unit that fits directly into the brewer, holding up to nine K-Cup pods to keep your coffee station organized and clutter-free.
This model is travel mug friendly, allowing you to brew directly into a taller mug. It also features a Strong Brew setting for a more intense and robust cup of coffee. With its simple operation and minimal footprint, it delivers convenience without sacrificing counter space.
Keurig K-Slim Single Serve K-Cup Pod Coffee Maker
The Keurig K-Slim combines an ultra-sleek design with enhanced functionality. Like the K-Mini, it’s under five inches wide, but it adds a larger, removable 46-ounce water reservoir. This lets you brew multiple cups before needing a refill, which is great for serving a couple of people or for your own daily consumption without constant refilling.
It utilizes Multistream Technology, which is designed to extract the full flavor and aroma from the K-Cup pod for a better-tasting brew. You can choose from three different cup sizes to get the perfect amount of coffee every time. Its modern, slim look is a great fit for any contemporary kitchen.
BLACK+DECKER CM0700BZ 4-in-1 5-Cup Coffee Station
The BLACK+DECKER CM0700BZ is a compact and versatile coffee maker designed for small spaces. Its space-saving design is perfect for apartments, RVs, or dorm rooms. A standout feature is the “Sneak-a-Cup” function, which lets you temporarily pause the brewing cycle to pour a cup of coffee before the entire pot is finished, without creating a mess.
This 4-in-1 machine is compatible with ground coffee and various pod types, offering flexibility in your coffee choice. Cleanup is straightforward with the removable, dishwasher-safe brew basket. For those with smaller coffee needs, this five-cup capacity is practical and efficient.
Ninja CFP201 DualBrew System 12-Cup Coffee Maker
For households that can’t decide between single-serve and a full carafe, the Ninja DualBrew System is the ultimate solution. This versatile machine brews both ground coffee and K-Cup pods, offering a remarkable nine brew sizes for grounds and four for pods. Despite its robust feature set, it maintains a relatively compact footprint for a 12-cup machine.
It provides three brew style choices—Classic, Rich, and Over Ice—so you can customize your coffee’s strength and flavor. The Over Ice setting is specifically engineered to brew a concentrated coffee that won’t become watered down when poured over ice. This is an excellent choice for a family with diverse coffee preferences.
Cuisinart 12-Cup Programmable PerfecTemp Thermal Carafe
This Cuisinart model is for the coffee purist who needs a larger capacity but appreciates a clean, space-conscious design. It features a 12-cup thermal carafe that locks in heat and flavor for hours without a warming plate, which can scorch coffee. The 24-hour programmability means you can have your coffee ready exactly when you need it.
With Brew Strength Control, you can select a regular or bold brew to suit your taste. The 1-4 cup setting ensures that even when you’re making a smaller amount, the coffee is brewed at the optimal temperature for great flavor. It’s a high-performance machine that doesn’t require an excessive amount of counter space.
Bonavita 8 Cup Coffee Maker with Thermal Carafe
The Bonavita BV1900TS is certified by the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA), meaning it meets strict standards for brewing the perfect cup. It uses a one-touch operation to start the brewing process, which utilizes a precise 1500-watt heater and a showerhead to saturate the grounds evenly, ensuring optimal extraction.
Its compact design is focused on performance without unnecessary bells and whistles. The 8-cup thermal carafe keeps coffee hot without a warming plate. Many of its components, including the carafe lid and filter basket, are dishwasher safe for easy cleaning. This is a top-tier machine for those who value coffee quality above all else.
Hamilton Beach The Scoop Single Serve Coffee Maker
Hamilton Beach The Scoop offers an eco-friendly and economical alternative to pod machines. Its permanent filter is shaped like a scoop, so you can easily measure your favorite ground coffee without needing paper filters or plastic pods. This reduces waste and saves money over time.
The machine is designed for simplicity and speed, brewing a cup in just minutes. An adjustable stand lets you brew directly into a standard coffee cup or a travel mug up to 7 inches tall. Its straightforward operation and compact size make it a very practical choice for a quick, single serving.
Cuisinart 4 Cup w/Stainless-Steel Carafe Coffeemaker
When you only need a few cups at a time, the Cuisinart 4-Cup coffeemaker is an ideal and compact solution. It’s designed for small households, offices, or as a secondary brewer for decaffeinated coffee. The stainless-steel carafe includes a dripless pour spout and a knuckle guard to protect your hand from heat.
A brew-pause feature allows you to pour a cup before the brewing cycle is complete, so you don’t have to wait for the entire pot to finish. Its no-frills, reliable performance and small footprint make it a classic and highly functional choice for minimal counter space.
CE251 12-Cup Glass Carafe Pot Replacement for Ninja
This product is a replacement 12-cup glass carafe designed specifically for Ninja coffee brewers, including models CE251, CE201, and CE200. If your original carafe has broken or become damaged, this is an affordable way to restore your coffee maker to full functionality without having to replace the entire machine.
Made from heat-resistant borosilicate glass, this carafe is durable and designed to retain heat effectively. The wide mouth and detachable lid make it easy to clean by hand. It’s an essential accessory for Ninja coffee maker owners looking for a reliable replacement.
Mr. Coffee 4-Cup Switch Coffee Maker
The Mr. Coffee 4-Cup Switch Coffee Maker is the epitome of simplicity and compact design. With a straightforward one-button operation, it’s incredibly easy to use. Its small size makes it perfect for a studio apartment, office, or any location where space is at a premium.
This model brews up to four cups of coffee quickly and efficiently. The compact carafe is easy to handle and store. For those who want a no-nonsense, reliable machine that focuses solely on brewing a good pot of coffee without any complexity, this Mr. Coffee model is a trusted and space-efficient choice.
Buying Guide: What to Look For in an Under Cabinet Coffee Maker
When my kitchen counters started to feel more like a crowded appliance museum than a functional workspace, I knew I needed a solution. That’s when I started looking at under cabinet coffee makers. These space-saving machines are a game-changer for small kitchens, but not all are created equal. I’ve learned a few things about what separates a good model from a great one, and I want to share that with you.
First, consider the installation. Some models are true built-ins that require a more permanent setup, often involving wiring directly into your kitchen’s electrical system. Others are simply designed to be mounted under a cabinet but plug into a standard outlet. Think about your comfort level with installation and whether you’re renting or own your home. The plug-in models offer much more flexibility if you move frequently or aren’t handy with wiring.
Next, think about the brewing technology. Many under cabinet units use a pod-based system, like Keurig K-Cups, which is fantastic for speed and convenience. If you’re a single-coffee drinker or have a household with varied tastes, this is a huge plus. However, if you prefer brewing a full pot of coffee or are trying to reduce pod waste, look for a model that also offers a ground coffee option. Some advanced machines even have a built-in grinder, so you can have the freshest cup possible without needing a separate appliance.
Capacity is another big one. How much coffee do you drink in a morning? If it’s just you, a single-serve machine might be perfect. For a family or if you often have guests, a model with a larger water reservoir and the ability to brew a full carafe (usually around 10-12 cups) is a better fit. Don’t forget to check the physical dimensions, especially the height when mounted. You need to make sure it will actually fit comfortably under your cabinets with enough clearance for the carafe to slide in and out.
Finally, look at the features that matter to you. A programmable timer is a lifesaver for having coffee ready when you wake up. The water reservoir should be easy to remove and fill. A drip-stop feature prevents messes if you pull the carafe out mid-brew. And, of course, consider the cleanup—a removable brew group or dishwasher-safe parts can make your daily routine much simpler. By focusing on these key areas—installation, brewing style, capacity, and features—you can find one of the best under cabinet coffee makers that truly saves space and fits your lifestyle perfectly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are under cabinet coffee makers difficult to install?
Installation difficulty really depends on the model you choose. Many are designed for simple DIY installation. These typically come with a mounting bracket that you screw into the bottom of your cabinet. The machine then just clicks into place on this bracket. You plug it into a standard wall outlet, and you’re done. However, some high-end or true built-in models may require hardwiring directly into your home’s electrical system. For these, I strongly recommend hiring a professional electrician to ensure it’s done safely and to code. Always check the installation requirements before you buy.
Can I use my own ground coffee, or am I stuck with pods?
This is a great question and a common concern. You are definitely not stuck with pods! While many popular under cabinet models are designed for single-serve pods like K-Cups, a significant number of them offer a reusable filter basket. This basket allows you to use your own ground coffee, giving you the freedom to choose any brand or roast you like. Some of the more advanced units even have a built-in grinder for whole beans. When shopping, just look specifically for this feature if using ground coffee is important to you.
How do I clean and maintain an under cabinet coffee maker?
Cleaning is similar to a standard coffee maker but with a spatial twist. Regular descaling is the most important task to prevent mineral buildup and keep your coffee tasting great. Use a descaling solution or a vinegar-water mix as recommended by the manufacturer. For daily upkeep, wipe down the exterior and the drip tray. If your model has a removable water reservoir, take it out and wash it with warm, soapy water. The brew head or pod holder should also be wiped clean regularly. The key is to make sure all accessible parts are dry before you slide the unit back under the cabinet to prevent moisture damage to the wood.
Will it fit under my standard kitchen cabinets?
Most under cabinet coffee makers are designed specifically to fit under standard kitchen cabinets, which typically have a clearance of about 18 inches from the countertop. However, you must check the specific height of the unit. Remember to account for the space needed to fully open the lid for water refills or to insert a pod. It’s not just the machine’s height; it’s the functional height. Always measure the space from your countertop to the bottom of your cabinet before purchasing. This is the single most important step to ensure a proper fit for your new space-saving appliance.
What is the average cost of a good under cabinet model?
You can find a wide range of prices. Basic, single-serve pod machines start around $100 to $150. Mid-range models, which might include a thermal carafe, programmability, or a ground coffee option, typically fall in the $150 to $300 range. High-end units with features like built-in grinders, touchscreen displays, or advanced brewing systems can cost $400 or more. Your budget should align with the features you value most. You can certainly find one of the best under cabinet coffee makers without breaking the bank if you focus on the core functions you need.