Hrelec CMK001 2-Way Single Serve Coffee Maker: A Detailed Review

The Hrelec CMK001 Single Serve Coffee Maker is a compact and versatile brewing machine that offers convenience and tasty coffee at a reasonable price point. In this review, we analyze the features, performance, ease of use, and value proposition of this single-serve coffee maker. ## Overview The Hrelec CMK001 is a small-sized, single-serve brewer compatible with coffee pods and ground coffee. It's ideal for small kitchens or office spaces due to its compact design. The brewer can deliver cups ranging between 8 and 14 oz in just over a minute using either coffee pods or ground coffee. Key features include compatibility with leading coffee pods, a reusable filter basket, rapid brew technology, a self-cleaning function, and overflow protection. ## Design The Hrelec CMK001 sports a simple but classy black plastic exterior complemented with stainless steel accents. The coffee maker measures 5.27 x 8.19 x 11.3 inches, ensuring a small footprint on your counter. The control panel, located on the top, offers single-button operation, making it user-friendly. The water reservoir and internal components are mainly stainless steel and aluminum, ensuring a solid build quality for the price. ## Performance The brewer performs well, with the rapid heating system quickly bringing water to the optimal brewing temperature. A 10 oz cup takes just over 90 seconds to brew using a coffee pod. Brewing with ground coffee also works well, with the reusable filter accommodating up to 25g of coffee grounds. A 12 oz brew takes 2 minutes 30 seconds, aligning with the advertised time. The coffee produced has a good flavor with a medium body. The taste can be customized when using ground coffee, offering a tailored strength and flavor. ## Ease of Use The Hrelec CMK001 is easy to operate. Fill the reservoir, insert a coffee pod or ground coffee, place your cup, and press the button. The one-button design enhances usability. Maintenance is also straightforward due to the self-cleaning function. Regular descaling keeps the machine in good shape, maintaining a smooth operation. ## Value Priced at $39.99, the Hrelec CMK001 offers a solid value proposition. The ability to use both major coffee pods and ground coffee adds to its versatility. In comparison to similar models like the Mueller Austria Single Serve coffee maker, the Hrelec is $10 cheaper, providing equivalent features and performance. For those seeking an affordable and efficient single-cup brewer, the Hrelec CMK001 is a valuable option. ## Downsides The main drawback of the Hrelec CMK001 is the lack of programmability or customization. The brew size and strength are fixed unless you use more ground coffee. The heavy reliance on plastic in its build raises questions about its long-term durability. Some users have reported issues after a few months of use. Finally, the brewer may not accommodate larger travel mugs due to its 6.6-inch clearance. Only shorter to-go cups will fit under the brew head. In conclusion, the Hrelec CMK001 is a versatile, efficient, and affordable single-serve coffee maker. While it could improve its customization features and build quality, it still offers a great value for those seeking convenience and a good cup of coffee.