Let’s be honest—kitchen counters never seem to have enough space. Between the air fryer, the toaster, and that one junk bowl (yes, we all have one), it’s like playing Tetris every morning.
That’s why I fell in love with under counter coffee makers.
They’re the kind of thing you don’t know you need—until you use one. Whether you live in a small apartment, travel in an RV, or just want a tidy setup, this little switch can be a total game-changer.
So, What Is an Under Counter Coffee Maker?
Picture this: your coffee maker lives neatly under your cabinet, not hogging space on the counter. That’s an under counter (or under cabinet) coffee maker.
Some are mounted under the cabinet, others are built right into the counter—kind of like a fancy oven, but for caffeine.
I went with the under-cabinet kind, which worked great in my tiny kitchen. And later, I got one for our RV, too. Total space-saver. Total win.
Why I Switched (and Why You Might Want To)
Here’s the thing: I didn’t think I needed a new coffee maker. Mine worked fine. But the clutter? It was driving me nuts.
✔️ Space Saver
Mounting the machine under a cabinet freed up a whole corner of my counter. Suddenly, I had room to chop veggies without juggling mugs.
✔️ Looks Clean
It’s like giving your kitchen a mini makeover. No wires, no mess, just a sleek setup.
✔️ Great for RV Life
On road trips, space is gold. Our under counter brewer fits tight and uses less power. Plus, no spills while driving—huge bonus.
What to Look For (So You Don’t Regret Your Pick)
After some trial and error (and one unit that wobbled too much), here’s what I’d suggest keeping an eye on:
🔧 Mounting Hardware
Some models come with brackets, which helps a ton. Just make sure your cabinet can handle the weight. I once installed mine too close to the stove—big mistake. Learned that the hard way!
⏰ Auto-Brew or Timer
Waking up to fresh coffee? That’s joy. It’s the little things.
⚡ Power Use
If you’re off-grid or using an inverter (hello RV folks!), check the wattage. Some models sip power; others guzzle.
🧼 Easy to Clean
Trust me, if it’s not easy to rinse or pop into the dishwasher, you’ll start skipping it. And nothing ruins coffee faster than old grounds and moldy water tanks.
My Top Picks (Based on Real Use and Research)
Let’s break down a few popular options—these are either ones I’ve used or friends have raved about.
1. Black+Decker Spacemaker SCM1000BD – My Ride-or-Die
This one’s a classic for a reason. It’s sturdy, easy to install, and holds 12 cups—great when you have company.
Pros: Big capacity, auto shut-off, reliable.
Best for: Everyday home use or long RV stays.
2. Portable Mountable Brewer – Best for RV Adventures
Lightweight and simple. It’s made for the road and doesn’t drain your battery.
Pros: Compact, uses less power, easy to mount.
Best for: RV life, weekend camping trips.
3. Budget Hero – Basic Drip Coffee Maker
No bells, no whistles, just good coffee. This was my starter brewer—and I loved it.
Pros: Cheap, simple, does the job.
Best for: First-timers or college kitchens.
4. Built-In Espresso Systems – The Fancy Route
If you want luxury, this is it. Think café vibes in your kitchen.
Pros: Sleek, high-end, touch screen, espresso & drip.
Best for: Serious coffee lovers or design lovers.
A Few Quick Tips from My Kitchen (and My RV)
In a Regular Kitchen:
- Use the included mounting kit (or get a universal one).
- Leave space above the stove—it can get hot.
- Test your outlets before installation.
In an RV:
- Pick something light.
- Double-check your power setup (especially if off-grid).
- Use brackets or pads to keep it stable while driving.
Questions You Might Be Wondering About
Can I put a normal coffee maker under a cabinet?
Not really. Regular models get hot and could ruin your cabinet over time.
Are there special RV coffee makers?
Yes! Some are made to work with limited power and small spaces.
Do I need to hire someone to install it?
You can DIY it if you’re handy, especially if it comes with the kit.
Are the parts dishwasher safe?
Most carafes and filters are top-rack safe—but always check the manual.
So… Is It Worth It?
Short answer: yes. Long answer: heck yes.
If your mornings feel rushed or cluttered, or if you’re short on space, this is such a simple fix. It’s one of those small upgrades that changes the whole vibe of your kitchen or RV.
And when you brew that first cup hands-free? Feels like magic.
Still unsure which one to get? Let me help. I’ve tested a few of these and can help guide you based on your space, lifestyle, and budget.