Try as we might, there’s just no changing the hearts and minds of some people, even our dearest loved ones, by presenting them with inconvenient truths. I’m talking, of course, about people who prefer coffee from pods. But based on the popularity of coffee pod machines, it seems those of us who haven’t been assimilated into pod people are outnumbered. And, to be fair, even if the quality of their coffee is all over the place, we can’t deny they’re convenience. My goal here is to find single-serve coffee makers that can blend that convenience with coffee I actually want to drink.

The best single-serve coffee makers

Best single-serve coffee maker overall: Nespresso Vertuo Plus

Best K-cup compatible machine: Chefman Caffeinator

Best pod-free single-serve coffee maker: Cuisinart Custom Grind and Brew

Best small drip coffee maker: Ratio Four

Best single-serve coffee maker for cold brew: Cumulus

In addition to plastic and aluminum pods, there’s a bevy of grounds-based coffee makers that specialize in…