Top Coffee Makers for Dorm Room Kitchens
Coffee Makers.For college students, coffee is often a necessity. After long nights of studying and short bursts of sleep, a quick and convenient cup of coffee can be the perfect way to jumpstart your day. However, with the limited space in dorm rooms, choosing the right coffee maker can be tricky. To help you out, we tested five of the best coffee makers suited for dorm life, evaluating them based on size, cost, and brewing quality. Here’s a guide to help you find the one that best meets your needs.Coffee Makers
Keurig
$59.99 AT AMAZON
Keurig K-Mini Single Serve K-Cup Pod Coffee Maker, 6 to 12oz Brew size, with Cord Storage, Perfect for Small Spaces, Evergreen
Bodum
$19.99
Bodum 34 oz Brazil French Press Coffee Maker, High-Heat Borosilicate Glass, Black – Made in Portugal
Fellow
$35.00
Fellow 16 oz Carter Move Travel Mug – Vacuum-Insulated Stainless Steel Travel Coffee Mug – Coffee Tumbler with Ceramic Interior and Splash Guard – Matte Black
How to Choose the Best Coffee Maker for Dorm Life
Selecting the ideal coffee maker comes down to your personal preferences and lifestyle. Consider the following factors before making your decision:
Size and Space Efficiency
Dorm rooms are typically small, so compactness is essential when choosing a coffee maker. You’ll want a machine that fits comfortably on a small desk, countertop, or even a shelf. Many coffee makers designed for single servings, like the Keurig K-Mini, are extremely space-efficient, making them ideal for dorm life. Compact coffee makers don’t just save space; they also make it easier to pack up and move when the semester ends.
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Brewing Capacity
Think about how much coffee you usually drink. If you’re someone who only needs one cup to get going, a single-serve coffee maker, like a Keurig, is a great option. It’s fast, efficient, and allows you to brew one cup at a time without any fuss. However, if you often study with friends or prefer brewing a few cups to last through the day, you may want to consider a larger option like the Mr. Coffee 5-Cup Mini. It’s still small enough for dorms but has the capacity to brew several cups at once.
Ease of Use
Busy college students don’t have time to deal with complicated coffee makers. You’ll want a machine that’s simple to operate, especially when you’re in a rush to make it to your 8 a.m. class. Single-serve models like Keurigs are extremely user-friendly: insert a pod, press a button, and you’ll have coffee in less than two minutes. If you opt for a traditional drip coffee maker, make sure it has features like auto shut-off or easy-to-clean components to keep your routine hassle-free.
Special Features
Some coffee makers offer advanced features, which can be useful depending on your preferences. For those who love variety in their coffee, machines like the Nespresso VertuoPlus offer more options. Not only can it brew regular coffee, but it also makes espresso and other specialty drinks like lattes. This could be a great investment if you enjoy experimenting with different coffee drinks from the comfort of your dorm. Cost and Maintenance
While sticking to a budget is crucial for most students, balancing cost with quality is important. Some models, like the Keurig, require purchasing coffee pods, which can add up over time, whereas machines that use ground coffee or reusable filters, like the Mr. Coffee, are more cost-effective in the long run. Additionally, consider how easy the machine is to clean. Coffee makers with fewer parts or those designed with easy-to-remove components will save you time and effort in maintaining them.
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University Rules and Regulations
Before purchasing a coffee maker, make sure to check your dorm’s policies regarding electrical appliances. Some universities have restrictions on appliances with hot plates or heating elements due to fire safety concerns. Always ensure that your coffee maker meets the guidelines set by your school to avoid potential issues.
Keurig K-Mini
This compact, single-serve coffee maker is perfect for small spaces. It’s easy to use, brews quickly, and doesn’t require any cleanup, making it ideal for students on the go.
Mr. Coffee 5-Cup Mini
If you prefer brewing multiple cups at once, the Mr. Coffee 5-Cup Mini offers great convenience in a small package. It’s simple to use, budget-friendly, and perfect for study sessions with friends.
Nespresso VertuoPlus
For those who enjoy variety and sophistication in their coffee, the Nespresso VertuoPlus offers the ability to make both espresso and regular coffee. It’s a bit more advanced, but it provides a premium coffee experience right in your dorm room.