Best 12-Volt Coffee Maker to Make a Hot Cup On the Move

Ian Mutuli
Updated on
Ian Mutuli

Ian Mutuli

Founder and Managing Editor of Archute. He is also a graduate architect from The University of Nairobi, Kenya.
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If you are constantly on the move or are planning a long trip, there is no reason not to enjoy a good cup of coffee as you go. The best 12-volt coffee maker is designed to get power from your car, RV, boat, or truck's cigarette lighter.

Now, while they are smaller than traditional kitchen coffee makers, these 12v coffee makers get the job done in no time but will make coffee in lesser quantities. 

We have compiled this list with five of the best 12-volt coffee makers you can find today, so read on to understand what makes them unique. Towards the end of this article, we will also share some vital factors you will need to consider when buying and answer a few questions about these coffee makers.

1. Makita 12-Volt Cordless Coffee Maker

Makita DCM501Z 18V LXT/ 12V Max CXT Lithium-Ion...
  • Brews one 5 ounce cup of coffee in 5 minutes when powered by a...
  • Brews upto (3) 5 ounce Cups of Coffee on a single 5.0Ah LXT...
  • No paper filters needed; Permanent drip filter allows grounds to...
  • Uses single-serve packs or ground coffee
  • Compact design at only 8-9/16" tall with a 3-1/2" cup clearance

This cordless coffee maker is for use at home or if you are on the move. It uses a 12V battery that is however not part of the package when buying the drone. However, as a Makita battery, you can get one at a nearby store or even other Makita tools out there.

This is a small coffee maker that you can carry with you almost anywhere, it has less than five pounds. It has a permanent drip filter and it can brew a five ounce cup of coffee in less than five minutes. It can be in single serving packs, or ground coffee.

It is handy, inexpensive, and has a robust body, and an attached handle for ease of transportation. It also works with 18-volt batteries and has boil-dry protection which means that it switches off when it detects that the water is hot.

Pros:

  • Affordable coffee maker
  • Compact body with a carry handle for easy portability
  • Compatible 12v and 18v batteries
  • Makes coffee fast

Cons:

  • Does not come with the battery

2. CONQUECO Portable Espresso Machine, 12v Car Coffee Maker 

CONQUECO Portable Espresso Machine Travel: 12v Car...
  • No Standalone lithium batteries are sold with the product.
  • 2.5 Minutes Fast Self Heating: USE COLD WATER: press the power...
  • UP TO 8 CUPS FOR ONE CHARGE: Are you still complaining the old...
  • Max 80ml Water Capacity: Are you still complaining that the...
  • Compatible with the 12V 24V Car cigarette lighter: With the...

The CONQUECO Portable Espresso Machine can be used in your car if you have a 12V outlet, or with batteries. This product heats water in as little as 2.5 minutes and even prepares up to 8 cups per a charge making perfect for camping, road trips or any time you need that espresso.

The CONQUECO Portable Espresso Machine is an ideal tool for travelers and campers who need fast and easily prepared espresso. Being compact and easily installed in a car, it’s very practical on a long ride; however, the small volume and limitations of the battery application suggest that it is suitable for sporadic brewing only. Especially suitable for those who need a compact device and are able to do a very fast run to the espresso.

Pros:

  • Portable and lightweight
  • Quick heating
  • Offers multiple power options

Cons:

  • Small capacity

3. RoadPro RPSC785 12-Volt Coffee Maker

RoadPro RPSC785 12-Volt Coffee Maker with Glass Carafe...
  • NOTE: Do not use an adapter or an extension cord. Requires 12...
  • In as little as 20 minutes you can have a full pot of coffee
  • Dishwasher safe glass carafe for easy cleaning and 20-ounce...
  • Economical and eco-friendly with a reusable filter
  • Ample 7-foot 12-volt fused power cord makes brewing simple using...
The RoadPro RPSC785 12-Volt Coffee Maker is a portable coffee maker or also known as trucker, traveler, or even camper coffee maker. It has to be connected to a 12V power source which is common with automobiles; it is therefore suitable for use when on long journeys. It has a 20 oz glass carafe and a filter that can be used again and again eliminating coffee pod waste.

The RoadPro RPSC785 12-Volt Coffee Maker comes with a reusable filter and will hold 20oz of coffee making it suitable for coffee lovers on the road. It can work best for truck drivers or campers that do not like the taste of coffee from the pods and have a lot of time to wait while brewing their coffee.

Pros:

  • Comes with a reusable filter
  • Serves 2-3 cups per brew
  • Comes with an auto shutoff feature

Cons:

  • Cord length
  • Noisy operation

4. Avigator Portable 12V Car Coffee Maker

avigator Portable Coffee Maker, 12V Car Coffee Maker,...
  • 【12V COFFEE MAKER】Power your car coffee maker by connecting...
  • 【PORTABLE COFFEE MAKER】5.9"D x 6.3"W x 9.1"H Whether you're...
  • 【EASY-TO-CLEAN】Savor the convenience of effortless...
  • 【FAST HEATING FOR INSTANT SATISFACTION】Experience the luxury...
  • 【COFFEE ON THE GO】With our travel coffee maker for car by...

The Avigator Portable Coffee Maker is designed for occasional users of coffee and is designed for carrying while travelling. It comes with a 12V car cigarette lighter socket accessory and is best suited for use in camps, RV’s as well as long drives. This coffee maker is perfect when making fresh ground coffee with ease, and comes with an auto shut off function.

The Avigator Portable 12V Coffee Maker is another amazing appliance for anyone that travels frequently and cannot do without his or her coffee. Though the advantage of quick brewing and automatic shut-off that make it convenient for the users are appealing features, the small carriage capacity makes it suitable for single use. Organic coffee is ideal for people who prefer getting fresh coffee while on the move and not via pod system equipment.

Pros:

  • Auto shut-off for safety
  • Simple operation
  • Fits most cup holders
  • Features a reusable filter

Cons:

  • Not ideal for large groups

5. COTGCO Portable Espresso Coffee Machine (Forest Green)

COTGCO Portable Espresso Coffee Machine: 12V Electric...
  • No Standalone lithium batteries are sold with the product.
  • PORTABLE ELECTRIC HEATING COFFEE MACHINE: The upgraded coffee...
  • SMALL TRAVEL ESPRESSO MAKER: Improved heating system allows you...
  • PORTABLE AND COMPACT: New capsule locking mode makes it easier to...
  • POWER SHORTAGE ALARM: It is equipped with a power shortage alarm...
The COTGCO Portable Espresso Coffee Machine is one of the portable espresso coffee machines which is ideal for regular travelers who are instant coffee lovers. With a forest green finish and self-heating feature and compatibility with Nespresso capsules, this is an ideal brewing companion for camping, RV or hiking trips.

The COTGCO Portable Espresso Coffee Machine has a number of interesting features including battery operation and self-heating, and Nespresso capsule compatibility. It is ideal for all people who still like to get a cup of the best Espresso and Tar while camping, travelling or even during a working day. Of course, this is still a small mug and the battery capacity is also low, but if you need coffee on the go this is definitely worth a shot.

Pros:

  • Comes with a self-heating function
  • Capsule compatibility
  • Works with car power outlets, battery mode, or plug-in adapters.

Cons:

  • Limited to espresso shots 

What Are the Important Things to Check When Buying the Best 12 Volt Coffee Maker?

While we share the best 12-volt coffee makers with you, here are some features that could be on your check list once you are out to shop for one. 

a) Max Amperage

As you wait to get your 12-volt coffee makers it is important to know that not all models require the same power.

If you must use it at home, in your office, in your car for instance, ensure that the 12 volts DC outlet that you will be using can support the machine.

This way if you require to make coffee then it will be possible to use the correct 12v DC outlet without damaging the power outlet for use.

b) Portability

When you need the best 12V coffee makers, consider the portability. This product may have a compact appearance as a cup holder in your car or a curved pocket in your traveling bag. If you want one to take with you on your escapes, there are even models with a magnetic base and you can eliminate the spills as you travel up and down by roads.

If you want you can go for one that is nil powered one which can make several cups of coffee at once. If you use this model you could also get a firm stand that holds your coffee maker firmly in place as the car moves.

c) Capacity

Another factor before purchasing is the size and the number of cups of coffee it is possible to prepare at one go. It always boils down to the amount of coffee that you need or the number of individuals that will be served coffee. You can find a coffee maker that will make one cup for you, another that can make several more milliliters for two or more people.

d) Brewing time and coffee quality

To start with, there are two models of these portable coffee machines which you can purchase. The different models with which you can choose include a Nespresso coffee maker or a ground coffee maker.

Further, the time your device takes to brew coffee also matters when selecting it out of the available products. For instance, if you have a need for a fast coffee maker you may select one that possesses a high rate per interior temperature.

e) Build Quality

Your 12V coffee maker should be built with the toughest material to ensure it stands the test of time. In the case of most espresso makers on the market today, their bodies are usually insulated and the cups that are included are made from stainless steel; this is highly recommend as it is hygienically clean besides being durable. Still, large coffee makers are made of thick plastic and available with stainless steel or glass carafe.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About the Best 12-Volt Coffee Maker

a) How does a portable coffee maker work?

It functions like countertop coffee maker by brewing coffee grounds or Nespresso coffee capsules. The only difference is in its ability to have rechargeable batteries and let you make coffee anywhere. Or you can take it, screw it in the 12V DC socket typically found in car to make a cup of hot coffee.

b) Where should I plug my coffee makers?

It is crucial you find out how much amps your DC outlet is capable of delivering before purchasing the device. Then, look for a coffee maker that will work with that kind of power Always choose one which has enough power to be used with that supply.

Almost all outlets, be they car or home, will have a label showing the maximum current that the outlet can handle. For example, 12V DC outlet may suggest the max amperage of 10Amps to 20 Amps, the latter of which will suffice for most portable coffee makers.

c) Can I use different coffee pods or capsules with my coffee maker?

Generally, the manufacture’s recommendation should always be followed on which pod or capsule should be used in the machine. If you can’t get the exact models, you might search how to make the best seal within the unit.

d) Do the coffee makers make coffee fast?

All the traditional espresso and other coffee makers cannot take less than five minutes to prepare the coffee. But you can add an extra little twist and use boiling water rather than cold when brewing it.

e) Can I use the coffee maker daily?

Yes, you can use portable coffee machine as often as you want or as per your requirement. However be informed that this can lead to faster discharge of the battery in question.

However, washing of cups will be necessary to avert damage that may be arising from staining. It is also recommended that you should disconnect it as soon as you make your coffee.

f) Can I use the portable coffee machine to make tea?

Most portable coffee machines are also capable of brewing tea, as well as heating drinking water. The best one for tea will have a filter that is reusable, which you can wash in order to get out any taste of tea when you wish to brew coffee.

Ian Mutuli

About the author

Ian Mutuli

Founder and Managing Editor of Archute. He is also a graduate architect from The University of Nairobi, Kenya.
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