The Cuisinart SS-5 and Cuisinart SS-6 are both compact single-serve coffee makers that are functionally almost identical, primarily differing in their model numbers likely for different retailers. Both are older, often discontinued models that offer the same 40-ounce water reservoir, three brew sizes, and K-Cup compatibility, making the choice between them dependent on current availability and price rather than features.
Here's everything you need to know to decide if one of these classic Cuisinart brewers is the right machine for you.
Cuisinart SS-5 Single-Serve Brewer
The Cuisinart SS-5 is a straightforward and compact single-serve coffee brewer designed for simplicity and convenience. As one of Cuisinart's earlier entries into the pod-based coffee market, it focuses on core functionality: brewing a quick cup of coffee using K-Cup pods without extra bells and whistles. Its space-saving design makes it a good fit for smaller kitchens, dorm rooms, or offices.
- What it is: A single-serve coffee machine compatible with Keurig K-Cup pods and other compatible single-serve capsules.
- Key features: 40-ounce removable water reservoir, three brewing sizes (6, 8, and 10 ounces), removable drip tray to accommodate travel mugs, and an internal charcoal water filter.
- Price: As an older, often discontinued model, price varies significantly. Typically found in the $70-$100 range for refurbished or new old stock.
- Dimensions: Approximately 14" H x 8" W x 14" D, making it relatively compact for a single-serve brewer.
- Materials/Construction: Features a durable plastic body with some stainless steel accents, consistent with kitchen appliances in its price range.
- Pros: Very simple to operate with just three buttons. Compact footprint saves counter space. Compatible with all K-Cup pods, offering wide flavor variety. Removable reservoir is easy to fill and clean.
- Cons: Limited brew sizes with no option for larger cups or bolder brews. No temperature or strength control. Being an older model, it can be difficult to find new and may not have a warranty.
The SS-5 is ideal for individuals who want a no-fuss K-Cup brewer and value simplicity and a compact design over advanced features.
Shop this product: https://www.amazon.com/Cuisinart-SS-5-Single-Serve-Brewer/dp/B00V49P2WY
Cuisinart SS-6 Single-Serve Brewer
The Cuisinart SS-6 is functionally a mirror image of the SS-5. It was likely produced as a minor model variant for different retailers or as a slight refresh within the same product generation. It offers identical features, from the water tank capacity to the available brew sizes, providing the same simple and efficient K-Cup brewing experience in a compact package.
- What it is: A single-serve coffee maker designed for K-Cup pod compatibility with basic, user-friendly features.
- Key features: Shares the same specs as the SS-5, including a 40 oz removable water reservoir, 6, 8, and 10-ounce pouring options, a drip tray for travel mugs, and a charcoal filter.
- Price: Much like the SS-5, it's an older model with pricing dependent on market availability. Expect to find it in a similar $70-$100 range when available.
- Dimensions: Approximately 14" H x 8" W x 14" D, identical to the SS-5.
- Materials/Construction: Assembled from durable plastic components with a design and build quality that matches the SS-5.
- Pros: Straightforward operation makes it easy for anyone to use. Fast brew time gets your coffee ready quickly. Works seamlessly with the vast library of K-Cup pods available.
- Cons: Lacks modern features like brew strength adjustment or an iced coffee setting. Water reservoir capacity is small compared to newer models. As a discontinued item, finding replacement parts or service can be difficult.
The SS-6 suits coffee drinkers who prioritize ease of use and can find it at a competitive price compared to other basic brewers.
Shop this product: https://www.ebay.com/p/133742410
Cuisinart SS-5 vs. SS-6 Comparison
Brewing Features & Options
In a direct comparison of features, the Cuisinart SS-5 and SS-6 are effectively twins. Both machines offer three preset brew sizes: 6 ounces for a stronger, more concentrated cup, 8 ounces for a standard-size coffee, and 10 ounces for a larger mug. They both work with any K-Cup compatible pod, giving you access to hundreds of coffee, tea, and hot cocoa varieties.
Neither model includes advanced controls for brew strength or water temperature, which are now common on newer single-serve brewers. For users who just want a consistently brewed, standard cup of coffee with the press of a single button, both the SS-5 and SS-6 deliver identical performance.
Design, Footprint & Capacity
Visually and functionally, these models are indistinguishable. They share the same physical dimensions and design language, featuring a slim profile that makes them an excellent choice for cluttered countertops, office breakrooms, or dorms. Their small footprint is one of their biggest selling points.
Both models come equipped with a 40-ounce water reservoir. This capacity is sufficient for brewing 4-6 cups of coffee before needing a refill, depending on the brew size selected. While adequate for one or two people, it's smaller than the reservoirs on many modern brewers, which often exceed 50 or 60 ounces. The removable drip tray on both units is a convenient touch, allowing you to fit most standard-sized travel mugs for coffee on the go.
Price & Availability
Since both the Cuisinart SS-5 and SS-6 are older models that are no longer in widespread production, the most significant difference you'll encounter is in their price and where you can find them. Their availability is limited to online marketplaces like Amazon, eBay, or dedicated refurbished goods retailers.
The price for either model fluctuates based on whether it is new old stock, refurbished, or used. There is no inherent price difference between an SS-5 and an SS-6, your choice should be guided by which one you can find in better condition or for a lower price from a reputable seller.
Which One Should You Choose?
Because these brewers are functionally the same, the choice between them comes down to availability and personal needs rather than features.
Choose the SS-5 OR SS-6 if:
- You're looking for a simple, budget-friendly K-Cup compatible brewer.
- You have limited counter space and need a machine with a small footprint.
- You prioritize ease of use over customizable features like brew strength.
- You can find a well-priced new or expertly refurbished unit active on a marketplace.
Consider a newer model if:
- You want more control over your coffee, such as brew strength and temperature settings.
- You need a larger water reservoir to avoid frequent refilling.
- You prefer buying a new product that comes with a full manufacturer's warranty.
- You want modern features like an iced coffee setting or multiple brew size options beyond 10 oz.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main difference between the Cuisinart SS-5 and SS-6?
There are no significant functional differences. Both have the same 40 oz water tank, three brew sizes (6, 8, 10 oz), and K-Cup compatibility. The different model numbers likely existed to distinguish units sold at different retail stores.
Are the Cuisinart SS-5 and SS-6 discontinued?
Yes, both of these are older models and are largely considered discontinued. They are not actively featured on the main Cuisinart website and are primarily available through third-party sellers as refurbished units or remaining new stock.
What kind of coffee pods do the SS-5 and SS-6 use?
Both machines are designed to be compatible with Keurig's K-Cup pods. This includes all officially licensed K-Cups as well as other third-party pods designed to fit Keurig brewers.
Can I use a reusable K-Cup with these models?
Yes, both the SS-5 and SS-6 are compatible with the Cuisinart HomeBarista Reusable Filter Cup and other similar reusable filter cups, allowing you to brew with your own ground coffee.
How big is the water reservoir on the SS-5 and SS-6?
Both models come with a 40-ounce removable water reservoir, which can typically brew about four 10-ounce cups of coffee before you need to refill it.
Can I fit a travel mug under the spout?
Yes. Both the SS-5 and SS-6 feature a removable drip tray. When the tray is taken out, it provides enough clearance to fit most standard-sized travel mugs underneath the dispenser.
How do you clean or descale a Cuisinart SS-5 or SS-6?
To descale, you should run a brewing cycle with a mixture of water and descaling solution (or white vinegar) in the reservoir. Run several more cycles with plain water to rinse the machine thoroughly. Refer to the user manual for specific instructions.
Are there more modern Cuisinart single-serve brewers available?
Yes, Cuisinart has released several newer, more advanced models. Modern options like the Cuisinart SS-10 and SS-15 offer larger water reservoirs, more brew sizes, strength control, and other improved features unavailable on the older SS-5 and SS-6.
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