The Ultimate Guide to Finding the Perfect Keurig Coffee Maker: Unveiling the Top Picks, Tips, and Comparisons for 2023

Are you in the market for a new coffee maker? Look no further than the Keurig brand. With a range of options to suit any coffee lover's needs, Keurig has become synonymous with convenience and quality. But with so many choices available, how do you know which one is the best? In this article, we will delve into the world of Keurig coffee makers, exploring the top models available now, as well as discussing the ones that didn't make the cut. Whether you're catering to a crowd or have limited counter space, we have you covered. Plus, we'll answer some burning questions about Keurig machines and help you choose the perfect model for your needs. Join us as we dive into the world of the best Keurig coffee makers.

The Best Keurig Coffee Makers Available Now

When it comes to choosing the best coffee maker, you can trust Tom's Guide. Our expert reviewers dedicate hours to testing and comparing products and services to help you make the right choice. Find out more about how we test.

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The Keurig K-Cafe stands out as the top choice for a Keurig coffee maker. This machine combines the best features of both pod machines and countertop espresso appliances. During testing, our team found that the "strong" brew function provides a deeper, richer flavor of K-Cup coffee. The "shot" feature, which brews a concentrated, espresso-like 2-ounce pour of coffee, is a fantastic recreation of tasty espresso. The machine also comes with a milk frother that can heat and froth dairy and milk alternatives, allowing you to make lattes and cappuccinos with ease in less than two minutes.

We tested the brewing time of the K-Cafe and found that it takes an average of 36 seconds to brew a cup, slightly slower than the K-Elite and K-Classic. The milk frother, on the other hand, takes about one minute and 35 seconds per pitcher. It's important to note that the K-Cafe cannot brew and froth milk at the same time, and the frother is located on the right side of the machine, which may be inconvenient for left-handed individuals. However, the K-Cafe is the only Keurig model with a built-in milk frother, making it the most versatile option from the brand.

While we enjoyed the taste of the K-Cafe's coffee, we found that the temperatures were a bit lower than expected. None of the Keurigs we reviewed were able to brew coffee at hot temperatures. The hottest cup of coffee we measured from the K-Cafe was only 176 degrees Fahrenheit. If you prefer piping hot coffee, this may be disappointing.

The K-Cafe consumes about 160 kWh of energy, which is the highest among the Keurig machines we tested. However, this is expected from a machine that can both brew and froth. The machine also produces about 75 decibels of noise during the brew cycle, making it the second loudest among all the Keurigs we tested. However, the warm-up process is quieter, averaging around 65 decibels.

Despite its higher price, the K-Cafe is a superhero for those busy mornings when you want a barista experience without the wait. Whether you're looking to replicate the coffeehouse feel at home or simply want a bolder flavor of K-Cup coffee in the morning, the K-Cafe is the machine for you. Its user-friendly design makes it even better.

Read our comprehensive Keurig K-Cafe review to learn more.

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If you're looking for a compact Keurig machine that won't take up much counter space, the K-Slim is a reliable and convenient choice. It features a slender build, which is a departure from the usual bulky design of Keurig machines. The dishwasher-safe water reservoir and drip tray make maintenance hassle-free. The K-Slim also ensures a richer cup of coffee thanks to its multistream technology, which fully saturates the K-Cups and provides a bold flavor similar to other Keurig machines.

During testing, every cup of coffee brewed with the K-Slim delivered both depth and flavor. However, like all Keurigs, the K-Slim falls short in terms of achieving the hottest coffee temperature. The hottest recorded cup of coffee was 181 degrees Fahrenheit, while the lowest was 168 degrees Fahrenheit.

The average brew time for the K-Slim is 1 minute and 25 seconds, slightly longer than our top contenders like the K-Cafe and K-Elite. This is because the warm-up and brew cycles are combined in this model. However, the K-Slim is still capable of brewing a cup in less than two minutes.

With a noise level of about 74 decibels at the end of the brewing cycle, the K-Slim is relatively quiet. It consumes about 139 kWh of energy, slightly more than the K-Elite.

The K-Slim's minimalistic design may be a drawback for some. It can only brew three serving sizes - 8, 10, and 12 ounces. Additionally, the water reservoir is located at the rear of the machine, which may be slightly inconvenient during refills. However, if you're looking for a no-frills machine that delivers the best flavor of K-Cup coffee at an affordable price, the K-Slim is the perfect choice. It is available in various colors, including red, mint, gray, and white. That's why it deserves a spot on the list of the best Keurig coffee makers.

Read our in-depth review of the Keurig K-Slim to learn more.

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The key to a more flavorful K-Cup coffee is a slower brew, and the K-Elite's "strong" button feature delivers just that. This powerful Keurig model lacks a built-in milk frother. However, it compensates with several other features, including temperature control, a programmable clock for scheduling a warming function, a hot water dispenser, the ability to brew iced coffee, and a spacious 75-ounce water reservoir. The K-Elite also offers the widest range of serving sizes, allowing you to brew cups in sizes of 4, 6, 8, 10, and 12 ounces. It even comes with a Keurig-branded water filter to enhance the purity of the water used for brewing.

During testing, we found the K-Elite to be incredibly versatile, offering a range of coffee options. It brewed K-Cups faster than any other Keurig home model, with an average brew time of 34 seconds per serving. It consumes about 115 kWh of energy, slightly more than the smallest Keurig model, the K-Mini. With a smooth coffee pod latch and a noise level of 67dB, this machine is both easy to use and quiet during operation.

The K-Elite also produced the best-tasting coffee in our tests. The depth, flavor, and texture of the coffee were comparable to that of a typical coffee maker. However, like all the Keurigs we reviewed, the K-Elite falls short in reaching the temperatures needed for the absolute best taste. The hottest cup of coffee we measured from the K-Elite was 182 degrees Fahrenheit, while the warmest cup was 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

Despite its lack of a frother and higher price tag, the K-Elite is still one of the best Keurig coffee makers available. Its advanced features and exceptional performance make it a worthwhile investment.

Read our detailed review of the Keurig K-Elite to learn more.

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The K-Select is an upgraded version of the K-Classic, featuring a slightly smaller yet somewhat bulky design. It includes the coveted "strong" button found in only a few Keurig models, which enhances the flavor of K-Cups. Our testing confirmed that the K-Select offers more boldness and a quieter warm-up and brew cycle compared to the K-Classic. It also boasts a 52-ounce water reservoir, giving it a 4-ounce lead over its predecessor. Additionally, it can brew a 12-ounce serving, the largest size available for Keurigs on the market.

While most Keurigs have separate warming and brewing cycles that produce various levels of noise, the K-Select proved to be the quietest during the warm-up process, measuring 63 decibels. It reached about 67 decibels during the brewing cycle. This makes the K-Select the quietest Keurig we've tested. It consumes about 125 kWh of energy, lower than the K-Classic's 130 kWh. The K-Select is easy to use and clean, with a straightforward button layout and a removable water reservoir. However, it may result in more mess during brewing due to potential splashing.

On average, the K-Select takes 54 seconds to brew a cup of coffee, including the typically longer "strong" pour. It takes around 40 seconds to heat up, providing a fast brewing experience as expected with a Keurig machine.

The K-Select outshines other Keurig models with its ability to produce delicious coffee quietly. However, its considerable size and splashy brew cycle may hamper the otherwise easy cleanup process. Nevertheless, it remains one of the best Keurig coffee makers for its quiet operation and excellent results.

Read our comprehensive review of the Keurig K-Select to learn more.

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The K-Mini is the most user-friendly Keurig coffee maker available. Its water reservoir adjusts to match the exact serving size you desire - the amount of water you add determines the amount of coffee you'll get. It can hold and brew between 6 to 12 ounces. The K-Mini also features hideaway cord storage, making it easy to move around. With just two buttons - one for power and one for brew - operating this machine is a breeze. It is the smallest Keurig on the market, measuring just 4.5 inches in width and approximately 11 inches deep. It comes in attractive colors including green, rose, teal, gray, and red.

However, like many basic Keurigs without a "strong" setting or multistream technology, the K-Mini falls short in producing a deep flavor profile. The coffee brewed by this machine is just average and doesn't match up to the higher-ranked models on our list. The coffee from the K-Mini has a flat and slightly burnt taste, although the temperature was surprisingly hot at 189 degrees Fahrenheit, the highest recorded among all the models we tested. In fact, none of the coffee brewed was below 180 degrees.

The K-Mini has the longest brew time among all the Keurigs on our list, averaging 2 minutes and 33 seconds for each of the five cups we brewed. It is also the loudest, with a noise level of 80 decibels during the brewing cycle.

With that being said, the K-Mini is remarkably easy to operate due to its simple button layout and small water tank. It also consumes the least amount of energy, using 110 kWh. While constantly refilling the water reservoir may be a bit annoying, it ensures that water is not left sitting in the machine's tank, reducing waste. If you have limited space and want a no-frills coffee maker, the K-Mini is one of the best Keurig options available.

Read our detailed review of the Keurig K-Mini to learn more.

Which Keurig Coffee Makers Didn't Make the List?

We also tested the K-Classic and the K-155 Office Pro, but both machines did not perform well enough to make our list of the best Keurig coffee makers. The K-Classic brewed coffee quietly and quickly, but its bulky design held it back. The coffee it produced lacked depth and flavor. As for the K-155, while it featured a more modern and advanced design, it struggled in terms of flavor and did not offer good value for money.

Keurig coffee makers utilize K-Cups, which are small sealed pods containing ground coffee. After inserting the pod into the coffee maker, you select your desired cup size. The machine then punctures holes in both ends of the pod and forces water through the ground coffee, delivering it to your mug. The brewing process takes just a little over a minute once the water is hot.

Keurig offers a one-year warranty on all of its home coffee makers, covering usual everyday use. This means you're covered for the first year of your coffee maker's life. However, consumers generally report that their Keurig machines can last between two to five years, with some lasting up to 10 years. To make your machine last longer, regular maintenance and following the top tips below is recommended.

Best Keurig Coffee Maker for a Crowd

Keurig Office Pro Coffee Maker

Whether you regularly entertain guests or need to keep your team caffeinated, the Keurig Office Pro is the go-to coffee maker. With a 90-ounce water reservoir and a brew time of under one minute, it can handle the ongoing demand throughout the day without needing frequent refills.

This coffee maker offers plenty of customization options. Users can control the temperature using the touchscreen and select from a variety of cup sizes. It can even accommodate travel mugs. While it is designed for office use, its sleek appearance makes it a great addition to any kitchen if you need a coffee maker that keeps up with your needs.

Pros:

• Ideal for offices or large households
• Durable and shows no wear even after brewing multiple cups
• Quiet brewing process
• Easy to disassemble and clean

Cons:

• Higher price
• No carafe included, so making a large pot of coffee for the office or guests is not possible
• Larger footprint

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Best Keurig Coffee Maker for Small Spaces

Keurig K-Duo Plus Coffee Maker

The Keurig K-Duo Plus coffee maker proves that great things come in small packages. This coffee maker can accommodate both a coffee carafe and individual cups, making it versatile for different needs. Its slim and minimalist design is perfect for adding to your kitchen without taking up too much counter space. The K-Duo Plus is perfect for households with multiple coffee drinkers, allowing you to brew enough coffee for everyone or make a quick cup in the afternoon.

While the design is simple, the K-Duo Plus offers several noteworthy features. You can wake up to the smell of freshly brewed coffee thanks to its pre-programmed option.

If you're looking for more space-friendly coffee options, consider using a percolator to brew your coffee on the stove.

Pros:

• Smaller footprint
• Adjustable water reservoir to fit different sides of the coffee maker
• Brew sizes ranging from six to 12 ounces
• Pause and Pour feature allows you to pause the brew halfway through
• Carafe keeps coffee warm for up to two hours

Cons:

• Smaller water reservoir, so it cannot brew as much coffee as other Keurig models
• No built-in grinder

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How Long Do Keurigs Last?

Keurig offers a one-year warranty that covers defects in materials or workmanship under normal use. However, most consumers report that their Keurig machines last between three to five years, with some lasting up to 10 years.

Is Getting a Keurig Worth It?

If you're the only coffee drinker in your household or you only drink coffee occasionally, then owning a Keurig is definitely worth it. However, if you're very particular about the quality of your beans or need to brew a large pot of coffee for multiple people, a traditional drip coffee machine may be a better choice.

How Does the Keurig Milk Frother Work?

If your Keurig machine does not have a built-in milk frother, you can purchase one separately. The milk frother offers both hot frothing for hot cappuccinos and lattes and cold frothing for iced beverages. Simply press one of the two buttons, and within two to three minutes, regular milk will transform into a creamy, frothy consistency. Customers praise this frother and confirm that it works equally well with dairy and non-dairy milk. With a height of 8 inches and a circumference of less than 4 inches, it is easy to store when not in use.

How to Choose the Right Keurig Model for Your Needs

If the idea of pressing a button and getting consistently good coffee appeals to you, we understand. With so many different Keurig models to choose from, we'll do our best to help you out. We've even provided links to the best K cup coffee flavors and the best Starbucks Keurig cups if you need recommendations.

Wait, Keurig K-Cups aren't Just Generic Coffee Capsules?

Due to the widespread popularity of their unique coffee capsules, Keurig capsules are often mistakenly seen as generic alternatives. But, let us set the record straight - they're not! If you're planning to buy a Keurig machine thinking you can use your stock of plastic coffee capsules from another brand, you're in for a surprise. Keurig K-Cups are not compatible with other capsule or pod-based coffee makers, and vice versa.

Fortunately, Keurig is one of the companies that have introduced reusable alternatives. After choosing one of the best Keurig coffee makers from our list, we strongly recommend getting a My K-Cup Universal Reusable Filter from Amazon. This small coffee filter is inexpensive, practical, and works with any Keurig model. By using this reusable filter instead of single-use plastic capsules, you can reduce the environmental impact of your Keurig machine and even experiment with your own coffee grounds. A win-win situation!

Keurig Features

As of now, all Keurig machines share a few common features. They can brew a cup of coffee in a minute or less, have a removable drip tray (making cleaning easier and allowing for the use of travel mugs), have a removable reservoir, and feature an auto-off function to save electricity. Some newer Keurig models, like the Keurig K-Supreme line, even include MultiStream Technology for a more precise water dispensing system. Check out our detailed review of the Keurig K-Supreme for more information.

Functionalities

After considering the standard features offered by all Keurig models, think about the additional options you need. If the basic features meet your requirements, a cheaper, basic model may be the best choice for you. However, if you want more control over the strength of your coffee, the ability to set a timer, or different brew sizes, different models offer different features. We've outlined these features in our Keurig coffee maker reviews below.

Just Black Coffee or More?

Unlike Nespresso machines and Ninja coffee bars, a basic Keurig machine brews drip coffee. However, some models are more versatile and can froth milk, make tea, iced tea, a full pot of coffee, or even iced coffee. Check out our guide on how to make iced coffee with a Keurig for more information. Before investing in a more expensive machine, consider what you expect from your new coffee brewer. Our Nespresso vs Keurig post and Ninja coffee bar vs Keurig comparison might also help if you're considering a machine that doesn't use pods or capsules.

Size

The Keurig models available vary significantly in size. While most coffee makers are standard drip coffee machine size and can fit on any countertop, some can be quite large, especially if they have additional frothing or brewing features. On the other hand, some models are small and portable. We've included the size of each model to make your decision-making process easier.

Keurig comparison: The Top 6 Keurig Coffee Machines of 2023

Product Details

Budget Pick

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K55 Classic Coffee Maker

• Brews: coffee, tea, hot cocoa, and iced beverages
• Strong brew option: no
• Cup sizes: 6, 8, or 10 oz

Most Portable

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K-Mini Plus Single Serve Coffee Maker

• Brews: coffee, tea, hot cocoa
• Strong brew option: yes
• Cup sizes: 6-12 oz

Best Overall

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K-Elite

• Brews: coffee, tea, hot cocoa, and iced beverages
• Strong brew option: yes
• Cup sizes: 4, 6, 8, 10, and 12 oz

For the Office

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K155 Office Pro Premier Brewing System

• Brews: coffee, tea, hot cocoa, and iced beverages
• Strong brew option: no
• Cup sizes: 4, 6, 8, or 10 oz

For Large Households

SEE ON AMAZON

Keurig K-Cafe Single Serve K-Cup Pod Coffee, Latte And Cappuccino Maker

• Brews: coffee (black or concentrated shot), tea, hot cocoa, iced beverages, with frother for lattes or cappuccinos
• Strong brew option: yes
• Cup sizes: 4, 6, 8, or 10 oz

Best Quality Coffee

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K-Duo Plus

• Brews: coffee, tea, hot cocoa, drip coffee (with ground coffee)
• Strong brew option: yes
• Cup sizes: 6, 8, 10, or 12 oz (carafe: 6, 8, 10, or 12 cups)

Now that you are aware of the options, read our reviews to find the perfect Keurig K-Cup coffee machine for you.

This iconic classic, available in black or red, is a highly recommended pod machine. The Keurig K-Classic Coffee Maker offers great value for money and is comparable to more expensive Keurig models in terms of quality. It is perfect for those seeking a simple and intuitive machine without excessive features or flashy displays.

With the K-Classic Coffee Maker, you can enjoy a variety of hot or cold beverages, including coffee, tea, hot cocoa, and more. The minimalistic interface features easy-to-use buttons and offers three different brew sizes. Its removable 48-ounce reservoir allows you to enjoy a week's worth of 6 oz cups of coffee without the need for frequent refills. Cleaning and descaling the machine is also a breeze.

If you prefer a smaller and more portable option, you may also consider the Keurig K15. For a detailed comparison between the K-Classic Coffee Maker and its predecessor, the K50, check out our comprehensive review.

If you're looking for a coffee brewer that doesn't take up too much space in your kitchen or can be easily taken on trips, the K-Mini Plus is the perfect choice. Its slim design and availability in five different colors make it a stylish addition to any countertop.

The K-Mini Plus offers the convenience of single-serve brewing for coffee, tea, and hot cocoa. It also features a strong brew option for those who prefer a bolder flavor. With cup sizes ranging from 6 to 12 oz, you can customize the strength and volume of your brew. Additionally, the machine comes with a cord storage and a pod storage unit that can hold up to 9 K-cup coffee pods.

While the K-Mini Plus can only brew a single serve at a time, it compensates with its compact and portable design. If you're interested in exploring more travel coffee makers that don't require a power source, take a look at our recommendations.

The K-Elite stands out for its elegant and stylish design, making it the most sophisticated among the top Keurig coffee makers. Its premium brush looks enhance any kitchen, while its 75-ounce water reservoir is ideal for large households or those who prefer fewer refills.

What sets the K-Elite apart is its range of functionalities and quality. It offers five different serving sizes and a strong brew option for a customized brewing experience. Whether you desire a refreshing cup of iced coffee or hot water for tea or soups, the K-Elite has got you covered. The brew temperature control is a rare feature among Keurig models and allows you to adjust the temperature between 187 and 192°F. Additionally, you can fine-tune the altitude settings for optimal results.

With programmable features, such as setting the brew time in advance and automatic shut-off, the K-Elite ensures a hassle-free brewing experience. The Quiet Brew Technology minimizes machine noise, and the maintenance reminder notifies you when it's time to descale. If you're willing to compromise on certain features, the K-Select offers similar performance at a lower price. For a detailed review of the K-Elite, check out our comprehensive guide.

Getting the entire office to agree on anything can be challenging, especially when it comes to coffee preferences. However, the Keurig K155 Office Pro might just be the solution you need. It offers a wide selection of beverages, including coffee, tea, hot cocoa, and more, accommodating even the most diverse tastes. With four different brew sizes, you can easily cater to everyone's individual preferences.

The K155 Office Pro features an intuitive and interactive LCD display with a full-color touchscreen. This user-friendly interface allows you to adjust the brew temperature and language settings. You can also set the clock and program the brewer's automatic on/off feature to align with your office hours.

True to its name, the K155 Office Pro is the perfect Keurig model for office use. Knowing that this brewer will be waiting for you at work can certainly brighten up those Monday mornings.

If you're a fan of both black coffee and specialty coffee-based drinks, the Keurig K-Cafe is the ideal all-in-one coffee maker for you. This spacious Keurig machine comes with a dishwasher-safe frother that allows you to create frothy milk for lattes and cappuccinos, in addition to enjoying classic black coffee.

With the K-Cafe, you can choose from four different serving sizes and adjust the brew strength according to your taste preferences. The machine also features a smart start option, allowing you to choose the brew size before the machine heats up.

The K-Cafe's 60 oz water reservoir ensures you won't frequently need to refill it, while the descaling reminder makes maintenance simple. If you prefer an even more stylish option, consider the K-Cafe Special Edition, which features a premium nickel colored finish and metal handle and drip tray. For a complete overview of the K-Cafe, read our in-depth review.

If you enjoy both Keurig K-Cups and large pots of coffee, along with the delightful aroma of freshly brewed java in the morning, the newest Keurig model, the K-Duo Plus, is the perfect choice for you.

This versatile coffee maker allows you to brew both K-Cups and large carafes of black coffee using your own ground coffee. The 12-cup thermal carafe keeps your coffee warm for two hours, while the Pause & Pour feature allows you to enjoy a cup of coffee before the entire carafe has finished brewing.

With an intuitive interface and programmable features, such as the ability to program your brew up to 24 hours in advance, the K-Duo Plus ensures a customized and convenient brewing experience. The machine offers four different cup sizes and a 62 oz removable water reservoir that can be positioned on the left, right, or back of the main body.

So, who doesn't enjoy a large pot of joe? If you're interested in the K-Duo Plus, you might want to consider foregoing the K-Cup feature and opt for a drip coffee maker instead. For guidance on where to start, check out our list of SCAA approved drippers.

In conclusion, when it comes to finding the best Keurig coffee maker, it's important to consider your specific needs and preferences. Whether you're looking for a machine that can serve a crowd or one that fits perfectly in a small space, there are options available for everyone. Additionally, it's worth noting that Keurigs are known for their durability, so you can expect your investment to last. And if you're a fan of lattes and cappuccinos, the Keurig milk frother is a great addition to your coffee routine. Finally, with the 6 best Keurig coffee machines of 2023 compared, you can make a well-informed decision based on your personal taste and requirements. So go ahead and elevate your coffee experience with a Keurig!