Cuisinart Single Serve + 12 Cup Coffee Maker, 3-Size Brew Options 6, 8, 10 oz, Programmable, Stainless Steel, Cream
$269.99
In stock
- Brew a full 12-cup carafe or a single cup with this versatile machine.
- Choose from three convenient brew sizes: 6, 8, or 10 ounces.
- Perfect for households with both single-serve and pot coffee drinkers.
- Cuisinart's reliable brewing technology delivers rich, flavorful coffee every time.
- Compact design fits on any countertop while offering two brewing options.
Our Score
Cuisinart SS-15 Review — Dual Brew for Countertop Versatility: Two Review
The Cuisinart SS-15 is a dual coffee maker that combines a single-serve brewer with a 12-cup carafe. It aims to satisfy households where some want a quick cup and others prefer a full pot. With compatibility for K-Cup pods and ground coffee via an included reusable filter, this machine offers flexibility without cluttering the counter with two separate devices. The programmable carafe side features a 24-hour brew start, brew strength control, and a Brew Pause function for mid-cycle pouring. Priced around $270, it competes directly with other dual brewers like the Keurig Duo. Reviewers often praise its reliability and coffee quality, though some note a learning curve for the controls and potential leaking if parts aren't seated correctly.
Product Overview
Many owners appreciate the convenience of choosing between a single cup and a full pot without needing two appliances. The single-serve side uses a 40-ounce removable reservoir and offers three serving sizes (6, 8, or 10 ounces). It accepts any K-Cup pod or, with the included reusable filter cup, your own ground coffee. The carafe side brews up to 12 cups into a glass carafe with a stainless steel handle and body. Both reservoirs include a charcoal water filter to improve taste. The machine measures 10.13 by 14.25 by 10.38 inches and weighs enough to feel sturdy on the counter. The controls are button-based with a separate power switch—some users find the programming for the auto-brew feature a bit involved, requiring a few steps to set. The carafe's spout is narrow, which can cause splashing when pouring; reviewers suggest using a taller cup on the single-serve side to avoid splatter. A removable drip tray accommodates travel mugs. The machine is BPA free and has an energy-save mode. Regular descaling is recommended, and both water filters should be replaced every few months. The single-serve reservoir can be removed for easy filling, but overfilling it may cause leakage from the base. Overall, the SS-15 is a capable dual brewer that earns high marks for versatility once users get past the initial setup quirks.
Key Features
Dual Brew Capability
- ✓Brew a full 12-cup carafe or a single cup from the same machine.
- ✓Switch between modes with separate water reservoirs and brew systems.
- ✓Ideal for households with different coffee consumption habits.
Single-Serve Flexibility
- ✓Choose from 6, 8, or 10-ounce serving sizes.
- ✓Compatible with any K-Cup brand pod or ground coffee using the included reusable filter cup.
- ✓Removable 40-ounce water reservoir for easy refilling.
Programmable 12-Cup Carafe
- ✓24-hour brew start lets you set coffee the night before.
- ✓Adjustable auto-off from 0 to 4 hours for energy savings.
- ✓Brew strength control for light or bold flavor.
- ✓Brew Pause feature lets you pour a cup before the cycle finishes.
Charcoal Water Filters
- ✓Both reservoirs include a charcoal filter to reduce chlorine and improve taste.
- ✓Easy to replace; filters are widely available.
- ✓Helps maintain cleaner coffee over time.
Brew Pause & Ready Alert
- ✓Pour a cup mid-brew without making a mess.
- ✓Five beeps signal when the carafe cycle is complete.
- ✓Ready alert cannot be turned off, but it's not overly loud.
Easy-View Water Window
- ✓See water level at a glance on both reservoirs.
- ✓Carafe reservoir has a window on the side.
- ✓Single-serve reservoir is clear plastic for visibility.
Removable Drip Tray
- ✓Accommodates travel mugs up to 7 inches tall.
- ✓Removable for easy cleaning.
- ✓Prevents spills and splatter on the counter.
BPA-Free Construction
- ✓All water contact parts are BPA free.
- ✓Safe for daily use.
- ✓Meets standard food safety requirements.
Build & Materials
The Cuisinart SS-15 is built with a brushed stainless steel body and a glass carafe that feels sturdy. The water reservoirs are made of clear plastic, which allows easy monitoring of water levels. The single-serve side has a removable reservoir that sits on a base with a gasket; if not fully seated, it can leak. The carafe uses a standard flip-top lid and a stainless steel handle. The overall footprint is substantial (14.25 inches wide), but it's no wider than many single-serve machines. The control panel has rubberized buttons that are responsive, though the labeling could be larger for easier reading. The included reusable filter cup for grounds is a nice touch, but it must be pushed down until it snaps into place—otherwise, it may not brew properly. The drip tray is plastic and slides out for cleaning. The machine feels durable; several reviewers report it lasting many years with proper care.
Pros and Cons
What Works
- ✓Offers both single-serve and full-pot brewing in one unit.
- ✓Coffee from the carafe side is hot and strong, with adjustable brew strength.
- ✓Single-serve side works with any K-Cup brand or ground coffee.
- ✓Charcoal water filters improve taste in both reservoirs.
- ✓Brew Pause and programmable timer add convenience.
- ✓Removable drip tray fits tall travel mugs.
- ✓Energy-save mode and adjustable auto-off for safety.
- ✓Many owners report the machine lasts 5-8 years with regular use.
What Doesn't
- ✗Large footprint takes up significant counter space.
- ✗Carafe spout is narrow and can cause spills when pouring.
- ✗Programming the auto-brew requires several steps each time.
- ✗Single-serve reservoir may leak if overfilled or not seated properly.
- ✗The ready alert beeps cannot be silenced.
- ✗Water reservoir openings are small, making filling with a carafe awkward.
The Verdict
The Cuisinart SS-15 is a reliable dual coffee maker that delivers on its promise of flexibility. It makes good coffee on both sides, and the programmable carafe adds morning convenience. While it has some quirks—like a narrow carafe spout and a multi-step programming process—most owners find these acceptable given the machine's longevity and performance. If you need both single-serve and full-pot brewing without sacrificing counter space to two devices, this is a solid choice.
Price vs. Value
What You Get
- Two brewing systems in one compact countertop unit.
- Programmable 12-cup carafe with brew strength and timer.
- Single-serve side compatible with K-Cups and ground coffee.
- Charcoal water filters for both reservoirs.
- Reusable filter cup for grounds included.
- Reputable brand with many long-lasting units reported by owners.
What You Pay
Around $270 retail, occasionally on sale for $200.
Maintenance Tips
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use my own ground coffee in the single-serve side?
How do I prevent leaks from the single-serve reservoir?
Why does my K-Cup pod sometimes explode during brewing?
How often should I clean the machine?
Does the carafe side stay hot after brewing?
Can I brew a single cup and a full pot at the same time?
What is the warranty for the Cuisinart SS-15?
(3) Comments
Product Specifications
Last updated:
