Are you looking for a convenient, fast, and versatile way to brew your favorite coffee? If so, you might want to consider a Keurig coffee maker. Keurig is a leading brand of single-serve coffee makers that use K-cup pods to deliver a fresh and delicious cup of coffee in minutes. Whether you need a simple machine for your small kitchen, a multifunctional one for your specialty drinks, or a large-capacity one for your big batches, there is a Keurig coffee maker that suits your needs and budget.
In this article, we will review some of the best Keurig coffee makers of 2024, based on our testing and research, and highlight their features, pros, and cons. We will also provide some tips on how to choose the right Keurig coffee maker for you, and answer some frequently asked questions about Keurig products.
How to Choose the Right Keurig Coffee Maker for You
Before we dive into the reviews of the best Keurig coffee makers, let’s first discuss some factors that you should consider when choosing the right Keurig coffee maker for you. Here are some questions that you should ask yourself:
- What is your budget? Keurig coffee makers vary in price, depending on the model, features, and capacity. You can find basic models for under $100, or more advanced ones for over $200. You should also factor in the cost of the K-cup pods, which can range from $0.25 to $0.75 per pod, depending on the brand, flavor, and quantity. You can save money by using reusable K-cup filters, which allow you to use your own ground coffee, but they may not be compatible with all Keurig models.
- What is your preferred brew size and strength? Keurig coffee makers can brew different cup sizes, ranging from 4 to 12 oz, depending on the model. Some models also have a strong brew option, which increases the brewing time and extracts more flavor from the coffee grounds. Some models also have a shot brew option, which produces a concentrated shot of coffee that can be used for making espresso-like drinks. You should choose a Keurig coffee maker that can brew the cup size and strength that you like, or that can accommodate different preferences if you share the machine with others.
- What is your available space? Keurig coffee makers come in different sizes and shapes, depending on the model. Some models are compact and slim, which can fit in any small space, while others are bulky and wide, which may require more counter space. You should measure your available space and compare it with the dimensions of the Keurig coffee maker that you are interested in, to make sure that it will fit in your kitchen.
- What are your desired features? Keurig coffee makers have different features that can enhance your coffee-making experience. Some features that you may look for are:
- A large water reservoir, that can hold enough water for multiple cups of coffee, and reduce the frequency of refilling.
- A removable drip tray, which can catch any spills or drips, and allow you to use taller mugs or travel cups.
- A temperature control, which can let you adjust the temperature of the brewed coffee, according to your preference.
- A high-altitude setting, which can modify the brewing pressure for high altitudes, and prevent under-extraction or overflow.
- An iced coffee option, which can brew a stronger cup of coffee over ice, and prevent dilution.
- A hot water dispenser, which can provide hot water for other purposes, such as tea, oatmeal, or soup.
- A built-in milk frother, which can heat and froth any type of milk, and enable you to make lattes, cappuccinos, or other specialty drinks.
- A smart start feature, which can heat and brew in one process, and save you time and energy.
- A programmable timer, which can let you set the machine to brew at a specific time, and wake up to a fresh cup of coffee.
- A descaling indicator, which can alert you when the machine needs to be cleaned, and prevent mineral buildup and performance issues.
- A smart app, which can connect the machine to your smartphone or tablet, and allow you to customize your brew settings, monitor the water level, order K-cup pods, and access recipes and tips.
You should choose a Keurig coffee maker that has the features that you need and want, and that are worth the extra cost.
Best Keurig Coffee Makers of 2024
Now that you know what to look for when choosing a Keurig coffee maker, let’s take a look at some of the best Keurig coffee makers of 2024, based on our testing and research. We have selected five models that stand out for their performance, versatility, and convenience, and that can cater to different needs and preferences. Here are our top picks:
| Model | Price | Brew Sizes | Brew Options | Water Reservoir | Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Keurig K-Cafe Single-Serve Coffee, Latte & Cappuccino Maker | $199.99 | 6, 8, 10, 12 oz | Regular, Strong, Shot | 60 oz | Built-in milk frother, Smart start, Removable drip tray, Dishwasher-safe parts |
| Keurig K-Duo Plus Single-Serve & Carafe Coffee Maker | $229.99 | 6, 8, 10, 12 oz (single-serve), 6, 8, 10, 12 cups (carafe) | Regular, Strong | 60 oz | Thermal carafe, Pause and pour, Programmable timer, Removable reservoir, Multiple position reservoir |
| Keurig K-Elite Single-Serve Coffee Maker | $169.99 | 4, 6, 8, 10, 12 oz | Regular, Strong, Iced | 75 oz | Temperature control, Hot water dispenser, High-altitude setting, Removable drip tray, Descaling indicator |
| Keurig K-Slim Single-Serve Coffee Maker | $109.99 | 8, 10, 12 oz | Regular | 46 oz | Multistream technology, Auto-off feature, Removable drip tray |
| Keurig K-Mini Single-Serve Coffee Maker | $79.99 | 6-12 oz | Regular | N/A | Cord storage, Energy-efficient, Removable drip tray |
Best Overall: Keurig K-Cafe Single-Serve Coffee, Latte & Cappuccino Maker
The Keurig K-Cafe is our top pick for the best overall Keurig coffee maker, as it offers a great combination of performance, versatility, and convenience. This machine can brew regular coffee, as well as espresso-like shots, lattes, and cappuccinos, thanks to its strong and shot brew options and its built-in milk frother. You can choose from four brew sizes, ranging from 6 to 12 oz, and adjust the temperature and froth settings to your preference. The K-Cafe has a large 60 oz water reservoir that can make up to six cups before refilling, and a removable drip tray that can accommodate travel mugs up to 7.2 inches tall. The machine is also easy to use and clean, with simple button controls, a smart start features, and dishwasher-safe parts.
Pros:
- Can make a variety of coffee drinks, including lattes and cappuccinos
- Has a large water reservoir and a removable drip tray
- Has a built-in milk frother that can heat and froth any type of milk
- Has a smart start feature that heats and brews in one process
- Has simple button controls and dishwasher-safe parts
Cons:
- May be too bulky for some countertops
- May not produce authentic espresso shots
- May be noisy during brewing and frothing
Best Budget: Keurig K-Slim Single-Serve Coffee Maker
The Keurig K-Slim is our best budget choice, as it offers a fast and effective way to brew a great cup of coffee at an affordable price. This machine can brew three cup sizes, 8, 10, and 12 oz, in less than two minutes, and uses a multistream technology that extracts more flavor and aroma from the coffee grounds. The K-Slim has a slim and sleek design that can fit in any small space, measuring only 5 inches wide. It also has a 46 oz water reservoir that can make up to four cups before refilling, and an auto-off feature that turns off the machine 5 minutes after the last brew to save energy.
Pros:
- Has a fast and efficient brewing system with multistream technology
- Has a slim and sleek design that can fit in any small space
- Has a decent water reservoir and an auto-off feature
- Has a low price tag
Cons:
- Does not have a strong brew option or a temperature control
- Does not have a removable drip tray or a descaling indicator
- May not be compatible with some reusable K-cup filters
Best for Small Kitchens: Keurig K-Mini Single-Serve Coffee Maker
The Keurig K-Mini is our best choice for small kitchens, as it is the most compact and portable Keurig coffee maker available. This machine can brew any cup size between 6 and 12 oz, and has a cord storage feature that makes it easy to store and transport. The K-Mini has a simple and easy-to-use operation, as you just need to add fresh water to the reservoir, insert your K-cup pod, and press the brew button. The machine also has an energy-efficient feature that turns off the machine 90 seconds after the last brew, and a removable drip tray that can hold a full accidental brew for easy cleanup.
Pros:
- Has a compact and portable design that can fit anywhere
- Has a cord storage feature that makes it easy to store and transport
- Has a simple and easy-to-use operation
- Has an energy-efficient feature and a removable drip tray
Cons:
- Does not have a water reservoir or a water level indicator
- Does not have a strong brew option or a temperature control
- May not be very durable or consistent
Best for Specialty Drinks: Keurig K-Elite Single-Serve Coffee Maker
The Keurig K-Elite is our best choice for specialty drinks, as it can brew iced coffee and dispense hot water for tea, oatmeal, or soup, in addition to regular coffee. This machine can brew five cup sizes, 4, 6, 8, 10, and 12 oz, and has a strong brew option for a more intense flavor. The K-Elite has a large 75 oz water reservoir that can make up to eight cups before refilling, and a removable drip tray that can accommodate travel mugs up to 7.2 inches tall. The machine also has a temperature control that lets you choose from five settings, and a high-altitude setting that adjusts the brewing pressure for high altitudes.
Pros:
- Can brew iced coffee and dispense hot water for other purposes
- Can brew five-cup sizes and has a strong brew option
- Has a large water reservoir and a removable drip tray
- Has a temperature control and a high-altitude setting
Cons:
- May be too expensive for some budgets
- May not produce authentic iced coffee or hot water
- May be noisy and prone to leaking
Best for Large Batches: Keurig K-Duo Plus Single-Serve & Carafe Coffee Maker
The Keurig K-Duo Plus is our best choice for large batches, as it can brew both single-serve and carafe coffee, and allow you to enjoy the best of both worlds. This machine can brew six cup sizes, 6, 8, 10, 12 oz (single-serve), and 6, 8, 10, 12 cups (carafe), and has a strong brew option for both modes. The K-Duo Plus comes with a 12-cup thermal carafe that can keep your coffee hot for hours and a pause-and-pour feature that lets you pour a cup before the brewing is complete. The machine also has a 60 oz water reservoir that can be removed and positioned on different sides of the brewer, and a programmable timer that lets you schedule your brew up to 24 hours in advance.
Pros:
- Can brew both single-serve and carafe coffee
- Can brew six-cup sizes and has a strong brew option for both modes
- Comes with a thermal carafe and a pause-and-pour feature
- Has a removable and multiple-position water reservoir
- Has a programmable timer
Cons:
- May be too costly and complex for some users
- May not be compatible with all K-cup pods or reusable filters
- May require more maintenance and cleaning
Frequently Asked Questions about Keurig Coffee Makers
To help you make an informed decision, we have also compiled some of the most frequently asked questions about Keurig coffee makers, and provided some answers based on our research and experience. Here are some of the common questions that you may have:
- Are Keurig coffee makers worth it? Keurig coffee makers are worth it if you value convenience, speed, and variety in your coffee-making. Keurig coffee makers can brew a fresh and delicious cup of coffee in minutes, with minimal effort and cleanup. You can also choose from hundreds of flavors and brands of K-cup pods, or use your own ground coffee with a reusable filter, to suit your taste and preference. However, Keurig coffee makers may not be worth it if you are looking for a more authentic, economical, or eco-friendly way to brew your coffee. Keurig coffee makers may not produce the same quality and flavor as other brewing methods, such as drip, pour-over, or French press. Keurig coffee makers may also be more expensive and wasteful than other options, as the K-cup pods are not cheap and not easily recyclable.
- How long do Keurig coffee makers last? Keurig coffee makers can last for several years, depending on the model, usage, and maintenance. According to Keurig, their coffee makers have a lifespan of 3 to 5 years, but some users have reported that their machines have lasted longer or shorter than that. The longevity of your Keurig coffee maker may depend on how often you use it, how well you clean it, and how you store it. To extend the life of your Keurig coffee maker, you should follow the manufacturer’s instructions on how to use, clean, and descale your machine regularly, and avoid using hard water, distilled water, or non-compatible pods or filters.
- How do I clean and descale my Keurig coffee maker? Cleaning and descaling your Keurig coffee maker is important to maintain its performance and hygiene. Cleaning your Keurig coffee maker involves removing and washing the removable parts, such as the water reservoir, the lid, the drip tray, and the pod holder, with warm, soapy water, and wiping the exterior of the machine with a damp cloth. Descaling your Keurig coffee maker involves running a solution of water and white vinegar or a Keurig descaling solution through the machine, and then rinsing it with water. You should clean your Keurig coffee maker at least once a week, and descale it every 3 to 6 months, or more often if you use hard water or notice mineral buildup in your machine. You should also follow the specific instructions for your Keurig model, which you can find in the user manual or on the Keurig website.
Conclusion
Keurig coffee makers are a smart choice for anyone who wants a convenient, fast, and versatile way to brew their favorite coffee. Depending on your needs and budget, you can choose from a range of models that offer different features, sizes, and capacities. We hope this article has helped you find the best Keurig coffee maker for your home or office, or at least given you some ideas on what to look for. Happy brewing!
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