Which Keurig Is Best? We Compare Keurig Models
Keurig personal brewers dominate the single cup coffee maker market and may be the first machines you’ll think of when you’re shopping for a personal brewer.
At first glance the number of Keurig models available makes choosing one seem daunting, and hard to determine which Keurig is best for you. But a closer look reveals that Keurig coffee machines share many traits. A simple comparison of the models can quickly narrow down the choices.
We’ve put together this Keurig Model Comparison Guide to help you easily sort through the options and determine what is the best Keurig model for you. After all, in the end, the best Keurig to buy is the one that most closely fits your needs.
Important NoteThe popular Keurig Special Edition, Platinum and Platinum Plus personal brewers, as well as the Vue series, have been discontinued but will be available for purchase until backlogs run out. Keurig will continue to support these machines. Learn more. |
In a Hurry?
Skip to the following sections for quick model overviews and comparisons:
What IS the Best Keurig Model?
Choosing a Keurig Made Easy – Decision-Tree Infographic (opens a new window)
Keurig K-Cup Brewing System Models for Home Use:
– K10/B10/B31 Mini Plus (the B30/K30 Mini is no longer being made)
– K45/B45 Elite (K40/B40)
– B145/K145
– B155/K155
Limited Availability – Discontinued Models for Home Use:
– K60/B60 Special Edition (K65/ B68)
– K75/B75 Platinum (K70/B70)
– K79/B79 Platinum Plus
– Vue – V500, V600, V700
Keurig 2.0 Models for Home Use:
– K350/K360/K300 (B350/B360/B300)
– K450/K460/K400 (B450/B460/B400)
– K550/K560/K500 (B550/B560/B500)
Commercial Models:
– DeskPro K130/B130
– K140/B140
– K145/B145
– K155/B155
– K150/B150
Why A Keurig Coffee Maker?
In some ways, Keurig has single-handedly revolutionized home coffee brewing. Fewer households are brewing big pots of coffee every morning, instead opting to quickly make fresh single cups whenever someone wants one. You no longer need to drink hours-old coffee or discard excess down the sink. And, you’re no longer limited to one brand or flavor, as you are when you buy coffee by the pound.
The advantages of K-Cup brewers are obvious. What may not be quite so obvious is how the cost of coffee adds up over time, and how the disposal of K-Cups can be an ecological problem. Keurig has addressed both of these issues with their reusable My K-Cup filter, designed to allow you to brew just about any standard ground coffee in some Keurig machines.
Keurig Models
Keurig is in transition. They originally expanded the number and type of models available, adding the Rivo, Vue and Keurig 2.0 lines. However, they have discontinued the Vue and many of the original K-Cup brewers in order to focus on the Keurig 2.0 line. Many of the discontinued models are still available, but if you have a favorite, grab it now before they all disappear from the shelves.
- The K-Cup Brewing System machines are the original K-Cup brewers that dominated the Keurig line for so long and that accommodate an ever growing selection of K-Cups. The Keurig Mini Plus and Keurig Elite will continue to be produced, but the Keurig Special Edition, Platinum and Platinum Plus have been discontinued. Learn more about K-Cups and the K-Cup Brewing System here.
. - Keurig Vue brewers, which offered more brewing options than the K-Cup system, have been discontinued but are still sometimes available for purchase (their brewing systems were used in the Keurig 2.0 line). These machines do not use K-Cups however, but instead use a more limited selection of Vue Packs, which will continue to be produced.
. - The Keurig 2.0 line allows you to brew single cups using K-Cups, and small carafes of up to 30 ounces using K-Carafe packs. These machines read the lids of newer K-Cups, certifying they are Keurig-produced, then optimize the brew for the flavor inside. In other words, they will only brew with Keurig brand pods with the special lid. All 250+ K-Cup flavors are available with the readable lids, but retailers are anxious to use up their stores of the older K-Cups before stocking the new ones. Check carefully before buying. Reusable My K-Cup and third party filters do not work with these machines.
. - The Rivo Cappuccino and Latte System produces espresso with Rivo Lavazza Espresso Cups and froths milk at the touch of a button. This popular and highly rated machine does a good job with these specialty coffees, but does not brew standard coffee with K-Cups.
. - There can be several model numbers for each Keurig machine. A “K” or “B” with the same following number are identical machines (K10, B10). In some cases similar number series are also the same machine, but may indicate slightly different features, or in the case of commercial machines, different UL listings. (K450/K460/K400 – the K400 doesn’t come with the water filter kit; B155 is for household and commercial use while the B150 is for commercial use).
Things to Look for When You Compare Keurig Models
Ready to choose? Skip to the Keurig Models Simplified infographic.
There are a number of features to consider when deciding between Keurig models. Here’s a list to get you started, but you may have other considerations to add to it that are unique to your situation. These apply directly to the K-Cup Brewing System machines, but some apply to other lines as well.
Location Where the Keurig Will Be Used – Most Keurig models are UL listed for Household Use Only. If you’ll be using your machine at the office, in a commercial building or in some dorms you’ll need a brewer that’s listed for Commercial Use. Learn more about why UL listings matter when selecting a single cup coffee maker here.
Size of the Machine – Is your counter space limited? Then you’ll probably need to know how much space each machine takes up, and whether or not it comfortably sits under upper cabinets. Or, consider setting up a brewing station near the kitchen. You’ll find some ideas here on our Coffee Organizers board on Pinterest.
Cup Size Options – Some machines brew a single cup size, while others allow you to choose between 4-12 ounces per cup. Keep in mind that the more water per cup, the milder the brew is likely to be.
Brewing Times – Most Keurigs brew in a minute or less from hot water in the reservoir. The Mini Plus, which does not have a water reservoir can take 2-3 minutes – still, much faster than most other coffee making methods. When adding water, it’s advised to use room temperature water. Otherwise, you’ll need to wait longer for the water to heat for that first cup.
Water Reservoir Size and Design – The Mini Plus has a water reservoir just big enough for one cup of coffee – meaning you’ll need to pour water into the machine every time you make a cup. However, all the other machines have removable reservoirs that you can take to the sink to fill, ranging from 40 – 80 ounces. These machines also keep hot water on hand for the fastest brewing and for dispensing for other uses
Hot Water Dispenser – While all Keurig models can produce a cup of hot water for tea, hot chocolate, instant oatmeal, etc., some make it easier than others. If this is an important feature for you, choose a machine with a hot water dispenser button.
My K-Cup Adaptability – Not every machine works with the reusable My K-Cup filter (or other third-party reusable filters), and none of the 2.0 machines or commercial machines do (with the exception of the K155). If you’ll always use K-Cups, then any Keurig model will work for you. However, if you’ll ever want to brew your favorite ground coffee then consider the Mini Plus, Elite or OfficePro Premiere (which can also be used at home).
Quiet Brew Technology – Most models employ Quiet Brew Technology so your coffee making is as quiet as possible. Two that don’t are the K10 Mini Plus and the OfficePro, so these machines are a little louder.
Energy Saving Features – Most models of Keurigs will automatically turn themselves off 90 seconds after brewing is done. The OfficePro will shut off after 2 hours.
Programmable – Do you want your coffee hot and ready to drink when you get up? Then a programmable model would be a good choice for you.
Water Feed Plumbing Kit – the commercial B150 and B155 machines have a plumbing kit available that allows you to hook up a water line to feed the machine’s reservoir, eliminating trips to the sink. Don’t forget that the B155 can be used at home.
Water Filtering – There’s an optional water filter kit for some machines that eliminates unpleasant tastes in water.
User Ratings – Once you’ve narrowed down the choices, take a look at user ratings (and how many ratings there are – a handful may not be enough to get a clear picture). It often helps to know how users feel about the models you’re considering. If you need to decide between models with similar functionality, a higher rating can often be the deciding factor.
So, What Is the Best Keurig Model?
If you’re asking this question, you may be wondering about performance and durability. All Keurig K-Cup models use the same brewing system and operate similarly. When you compare Keurig models and user reviews you soon realize that differences have more to do with features than with performance.
Keurig 2.0 brewers all operate similarily, as well. The major difference between machines is how large the water reservoir is and how many cup size options there are, which simplifies comparison between models.
Two commercial models are also UL rated for Household Use – the K145 and the K155. These commercial models are designed to stand up to heavy use and can be good choices for households that brew a lot of coffee.
Because of the nature of these machines, Keurig K-Cup coffee makers can seem a little tempermental at times. Performance issues often have to do with coffee grounds getting inside the entrance or exit needles (easy to clean out) or the machine needing to have mineral buildup removed from internal parts (a simple descaling process takes care of this).
For the fewest problems, bottled or spring water is recommended, not distilled, softened, or hard water with lots of mineral content. On the off chance that you receive a malfunctioning machine, Keurig is very good about offering replacements.
Keurig Models Simplified – Infographic
The infographic below can help you quickly determine which machine has the features you want. Scroll below the infographic for more information about individual machines for home use, discontinued models (limited supplies available), the Keurig 2.0’s and machines for commercial use. Click on the image to expand it into a larger version (look for the gray multi-arrows icon in the upper right corner after you click).
Keurig K-Cup Brewing System Models for Home Use
Keurig K10/B31 MINI Plus Brewing System, Black
Keurig K10, B10, B31 Mini Plus (the B30/K30 is no longer being made) – This compact Keurig model comes in several vibrant colors
Keurig K45 Elite Brewing System, Black
Keurig Elite (K45, B45) – This popular best-selling model has a removable 48 ounce water reservoir and can brew 3 cup sizes – 6, 8 and 10 ounces (the K40/B40 has 2 cup sizes, otherwise is identical to the K45/B45). Dispense hot water by running a brew cycle without a K-Cup installed. The My K-Cup reusable filter works in this machine, as do some third-party filters. The included Water Filter Starter Kit
Keurig B145 OfficePRO Brewing System
The OfficePRO (B145, K145) is a popular K-Cup machine for households and small offices (up to 15 people). The 48 ounce reservoir is removable and can be filled at the sink. Choose between 3 cup sizes (6, 8 and 10 ounces). Water heats and coffee brews in less than a minute. Turns itself off after being idle for 2 hours. Can accommodate some third party reusable filters (Solofill and Ekobrew filters are reported to work well). Removable drip tray allows brewing into taller mugs. The internal tank can be easily drained by pressing a button. A little louder than those with Quiet Brew Technology. UL listed for both Household and Commercial Use. 13″ H x 10″ W x 11″ D. 4.5 stars.
Keurig B155 Commercial Brewing System
K155, B155 Commercial Brewing System (OfficePro Premiere) – A nice machine for busy households, home offices and mid-sized commercial offices, as the reservoir holds up to 90 ounces and brews a cup in less than a minute. 4 cups sizes – 4, 6, 8 and 10 ounces – and you can choose the water temperature, program Auto On/Off and choose English, Spanish or French language view screens. Ekobrew and Solofill reusable filters can be accommodated. Removable drip tray for brewing taller mugs. Can be hooked up to a water line with the Direct Water Line Plumbing Kit
Limited Supplies – Discontinued K-Cup Brewing System Models
Keurig B60 Special Edition Brewing System
Keurig Special Edition (K60, K65, B60, B68 – the K66 is an older model) – This highly rated mid-priced machine has a 60 ounce reservoir that can be filled at the sink. Brew 3 cup sizes – 6, 8 and 10 ounces in less than a minute. Choose the water temperature, program Auto On/Off and be alerted when it needs descaling. Removable drip tray allows for taller mugs. Handy digital clock. Dishwasher safe parts. Can accommodate the My-Cup filter and reusable third-party filters. The optional Water Filter Starter Kit
Keurig K75 Single-Cup Platinum Home-Brewing System
Keurig Platinum (B70, K75, B75) – This popular model has a 72 ounce reservoir that can be filled at the sink and can brew 5 cup sizes – 4, 6, 8, 10 and 12 ounces – in less than a minute. Program the cup size, Auto On/Off and water temperature. This model also has a built in digital clock, descale alert, removable drip tray, and dishwasher safe parts. The optional Water Filter Starter Kit with charcoal filters can remove off-tastes from your water. Comes in black or brown and silver, or silver with black, and with a blue LED screen. 12.2” H x 16.8” W x 14.9” D. 4.5 stars.
Platinum Plus (K79, B79) – Has all the features of the Platinum model plus a hot water dispenser and rinse cycle for keeping the internal plumbing clear.
Keurig Vue V700 Single Serve Coffee System
The Vue machines brew a little differently than the K-Cup Brewing System machines and offer several advantages. For starters, you can program coffee strength and water temperature via the colored touchscreen on the V700. Users report being able to produce bolder coffee than with K-Cup models. Brews in under one minute. 74 ounce water reservoir that can be filled at the sink. 8 cup sizes, from 4 ounces to 18 ounces. Program Auto On/Off. Adjustable drip tray but reportedly does not accept some travel mugs. Produces hot water for hot chocolate and such by running a cycle without a Vue Pack in place. UL listed for Household Use Only.
The Vue brewers do not use K-Cups but instead requires special Vue Packs, some of which are available in “mug” sizes for larger cups. The selection of Vue Packs in limited, and often not available locally, but the third party KCV-Cup reusable coffee filter set
V600
V500
Keurig 2.0 Models for Home Use
The Keurig 2.0 Series uses the new Keurig 2.0 Brewing Technology, which gives you a choice between brewing single cups and 4-cup carafes (up to 30 ounces). These models read the lids of K-Cups, verify they are Keurig originals and optimize the brewing process for the type of coffee in the cup.
The machines in this new line are not getting good reviews, but nearly all of the complaints are because they will only brew with Keurig K-Cups that have the readable lids (made after July 2014) and not older or generic K-Cups. If you have older K-Cups on hand, Keurig will provide you with a coupon to replace them with the new K-Cups. Not all retailers carry the new K-Cups, but will switch over once current supplies run out, so make sure you can find your favorite flavor in the new K-Cup before buying a 2.0 machine. These machines also accept K-Carafe packs. Vue Packs are gradually being switched over to work with the 2.0s as well as the Vue machines.
The reusable My K-Cup filters, as well as third party filters do not work with these machines, which is another thing some users dislike.
However, users who don’t care about the new K-Cups or using ground coffee in a reusable filter seem to be quite happy with the 2.0 brewers. They cite ease of use, better coffee, the ability to brew bolder coffee and having more brewing options as features they appreciate. They also enjoy being able to brew a carafe on weekend mornings.
Update |
For storage, empty the reservoir, store in an upright position and do not allow the machine to freeze. The internal tank cannot be drained. Be sure to do a cleansing brew before using the machine again.
A cleansing brew (without K-Cup or pack) is recommended after brewing hot chocolate packs.
Keurig does not recommend putting any of the parts, including the included carafe, in the dishwasher – wash them by hand. All plastic parts are BPA free.
These brewers are UL Listed for Household Use Only.
Visit our review for full details and comparisons of the Keurig 2.0 single cup coffee makers.
Keurig K350 2.0 Brewer, Black
K350, K360 – 60 ounce reservoir – 10 brew sizes from 4 – 30 ounces. Black and white LCD touch screen, coffee strength control, auto on/off, water filter and cartridge, carafe that holds 4 8-ounce cups. Produces hot water by brewing without a K-Cup. Removable drip tray and water reservoir. Quiet performance. 13.45” H x 10.43” W x 13.63” D. The K300 model is identical but does not have the water filter.
Keurig K450 2.0 Brewer, Black
K450, K460 – 70 ounce reservoir – 10 brew sizes from 4 – 30 ounces. Color LCD touch screen, programmable clock, auto on/off, coffee strength control, water filter and cartridge, carafe. Produces hot water by running a cycle without a K-Cup. Removable drip tray and water reservoir. Quiet performance. 16” H x 12.7” W x 18.3” D. The K400 model is identical but does not have the water filter.
Keurig K550 2.0 Brewer
K550, K560 – 80 ounce reservoir – Brew 10 cup sizes from 4 – 30 ounces. Large color LCD screen touch screen, customizable night light, auto on/off, programmable clock, hot water dispenser (must hold it down until the cup is full), coffee strength control (users love the “strong” setting), water filter and cartridge, carafe. Removable drip tray and water reservoir. Quiet performance. 16” H x 12.7” W x 18.3” D. The K500 model is identical but does not have the water filter.
Keurig Coffee Makers for Commercial Use
Keurig DeskPRO K130/B130 Brewing System
The DeskPRO (K130, B130) is a sturdy little machine made for the hospitality industry. It uses K-Cups to brew one 8-ounce cup of coffee at a time and shuts off automatically once it’s done. This machine requires adding water for each cup (no reservoir). Since the water needs to heat for every cup, this personal brewer takes a little longer, about 3 minutes. The drip tray can be removed to accommodate a taller mug. Hot water can be dispensed into a cup by running a brew cycle without a K-Cup in place. Some third party reusable filters work with this machine (Ekobrew, Solofill). A little louder than some (no Quiet Brew Technology). UL listed for Commercial Use Only. 11.1″ H x 10.0″ D x 7.0″ W. 4 stars. Read our review.
Keurig B140 Small Office Coffeemaker
The Keurig Small Office coffee maker (B140, K140) is for small offices of up to 15 people – 3 cup sizes, 6, 8 and 10 ounces. 48 ounce water reservoir. Some third party reusable filters work with this machine, such as those by Ekobrew. The drip tray is removable. Brews a cup in less than a minute. Press the Auto-Off button to turn it off if unused for 2 hours. Easily drain the internal tank by pressing a button. UL listed for Commercial Use Only. 13” H x 10” W x 11” D. 4 stars.
Keurig B145 OfficePRO Brewing System
The OfficePRO (B145, K145) is a popular K-Cup machine for small offices (up to 15 people). The 48 ounce reservoir is removable and can be filled at the sink. Choose between 3 cup sizes (6, 8 and 10 ounces). Water heats and coffee brews in less than a minute. Turns itself off after being idle for 2 hours. Can accommodate some third party reusable filters (Solofill and Ekobrew filters seem to work well). Removable drip tray allows brewing into taller mugs. The internal tank can be easily drained by pressing a button. A little louder than those with Quiet Brew Technology. UL listed for Household and Commercial Use. 13″ H x 10″ W x 11″ D. 4.5 stars.
Keurig B155 Commercial Brewing System
OfficePRO Premiere Commercial Brewing System (K155, B155) – A nice machine for larger offices (up to 30 people), as the reservoir holds up to 90 ounces and brews a cup in less than a minute. 4 cups sizes – 4, 6, 8 and 10 ounces – and you can choose the water temperature, program Auto Off/On and choose English, Spanish or French language view screens. Ekobrew and Solofill reusable filters can be accommodated. Removable drip tray for brewing taller mugs. Can be hooked up to a water line with the Direct Water Line Plumbing Kit
Keurig B150 Commercial Brewing System
K150, B150 Commercial Brewing System – Brews 5 cups sizes – 4, 6, 8, 10 and 12 ounces. 90 ounce removable water reservoir. Brews in less than a minute. Can accommodate some third party resusable filters. You’re able to program water temperature, Auto On/Off and English, French or Spanish view screens. Third party reusable filters work with this machine. Removable drip tray. Easy to drain. Quiet Brew Technology. NSF certified. Hook it up to a water line with the included plumbing kit, if desired. UL listed for Commercial Use Only. 13.9” H x 10.4” W x 14” D. 4 stars.
Thanks for all the info. I felt like I was ready to go for a 2.0 model after reading, but then the comments left me unsure again. When it comes to the 2.0, how many different coffee companies have pods available? I tried to find Peet’s in 2.0 cups, but I couldn’t tell on the Peet’s website if they make the pods despite also selling a 2.0 machine. Will the 2.0 cups eventually replace the normal k-cups on the shelf? If I buy a K45, for example, will the 2.0 be standard by the end of 2015?
I think the Peet’s K-Cups will work fine with the 2.0 models, Collin. The K-Cups pictured on the Peet’s website have the band around the outer edge of the lids that identifies K-Cups that work in 2.0s, plus the Peet’s K-Cup descriptions say they work with all Keurigs. The new Keurig sanctioned K-cups (with the band around the outer rim of the lid plus the Keurig logo) work with all machines, not just the 2.0 models (just to clarify, 2.0 refers to the newest machine model, not to K-Cups). So, you could say the new K-Cups are already the norm. You won’t have any problem using them in any Keurig K-Cup machine. There are 250+ K-Cup flavors available by a lot of different brands, which you can explore at Keurig.com. I hope this helps – good luck!
We have the B30. Water does not flow into the system, it just stays on top. We have ordered the recall kit. Does that have something to do with this problem?
I don’t think the recall affects the problem you’re having, Don. It sounds to me like the needles need to be cleaned so water can flow through them (see the maintenance video on this page) and/or the machine needs to be descaled. If that doesn’t help, or you’ve barely used the machine, call Keurig support for troubleshooting help (866-901-2739). Good luck!
I am confused!!! Which machine makes lattes?
Cindy, the Rivo makes true lattes. There are flavored latte K-Cups that work with all of the machines but they aren’t the real thing.
Can the 2.0 fit into the Vue machine. We have a Vue machine and wonder is there an adapter from Vue to K cup
Rebecca, there’s a reusable filter that gets good reviews, the Kooking Cup for Keurig Vue
, that allows you to use either ground coffee or any K-Cup in a Vue machine. I hope this answers your question!
Thanks guys for pointing out the Freedom Ring (aka Freedom Clip) it looks like a FANTASTIC option for those stuck with a Keurig that want to use their own coffee. I’m really on the fence between the old version without DRM and the new version that can do a carafe, but the Freedom Clip may have just tipped me over the fence, though I hate giving Keurig money for their monopoly, I can now take it away by brewing my own coffee.
I just want to point out that the Freedom Ring allows a 2.0 to brew older and generic K-Cups in addition to the new Keurig DRM K-Cups. For brewing your own coffee you’ll probably want one of the new reusable filters built for the 2.0s. Together, you’ll have all the coffee options of the older machines plus the carafe option. Happy brewing!
Between the 2.0 300 and the 2.0 350, how do I know whether I should get the one with a water filter?
Carol, how does your water taste? If it has any disagreeable flavors, like hints of sulfur or chlorine, then the water filter kit is a good idea. Good tasting water produces the best coffee. If you’re using filtered or bottled water then you probably don’t need the water filter, but choose based on the taste of the water you brew coffee with.
This article was very helpful. I bought a k460 from SAMs and when I got home the brewer model in the box was a k450. Are these the same? Should I return it
Lisa, the K460 and K450 machines are identical, although they may have different assortments of K-Cups packaged with them. Sounds like you’re good to go!
love this article. I got a K45 for Christmas, and at first I was hoping I would get the new 2.0. I was a little disappointed, but after reading this I now realize that I would way rather have this one. the only other one that I think I would love would be the K75…it seems almost exactly the same except it has a few more cup sizes and a screen…also it alerts you when it needs to be cleaned…but im sure it is a lot more expensive and those extra features aren’t THAT important to me. overall I am happy with my Christmas present. thanks for the help! (:
I’m glad you’re happy with your Christmas present, Brooke. And thank you for letting us know our article helped!
Hello I just received the 2.0 model for Christmas and realized I could only use the newer kcups, which are more expensive and hard to find. Before using it I wanted to check on some things in case I needed to exchange for a different model. Are there any models that I can use the other brand of kcups with? I would actually love to share what I’m looking for with you and maybe you can help me decide which is best..
thank you so much in advance!
I would like to have a water reservoir, I would like to me able to use ground coffee (not necessary) , I would love the option to buy other brands of the cups, I don’t need a water filter, I would like more than one cup size option but again not necessary.. I am the only one that drinks coffee at my house, but my children love tea and hot chocolate. Hope this helps, and I hope you can help me
-Jessica
Jessica, I think you’d be happy with the K45 Elite, as that has a water reservoir (48 ounce reservoir, 3 cup sizes), accepts a reusable filter for ground coffee and accommodates K-Cups from any maker (not just the new ones from Keurig). If you’d like a larger water reservoir and more cup size choices, then you might consider the K-75 Platinum (5 cup sizes, 72 ounce reservoir).
Having said that, third-party vendors are now producing “hacks” for the 2.0. The free Freedom Ring allows any K-Cup to work with the 2.0. And, new reusable filters that allow brewing with ground coffee are getting good reviews: Eco-Fill
and the Eco-Fill with paper filters
(both by Perfect Pod).
Good luck! I hope you’ll let us know what you decide to do.
Thanks so much for the great information. I got the k45 elite and love it. Now I want to get a reusable filter so I can use my own coffee and save some money. There are many options to choose. Have you done any reseach on which is the best?
Tina, Keurig would recommend the My K-Cup reusable filter
for your K45, but there are third-party filters that get better reviews from users: Ekobrew
, Brew and Save
, and Solofill
. If a little sludge in the bottom bothers you, than you may be happier with a filter that requires disposable paper filters, such as the EZ Cup system
. Or, use a paper filter, like those from EZ Cup in the Solofill or Ekobrew filters. Good luck!
Thanks for the thorough presentation. I’ve wanted a Keurig for a while, but was always thrown off by varying reviews and the price of k-cups as compared to regular coffee. My husband bought me the 2.0 that costco sells, but I made him return it as I do not want to be limited to certain k-cups. He made me promise to get another one. I’m glad I found this site. I decided on the Elite. I wish it brewed to 12ounces, but overall I think it’s the best for me. Thanks again.
Congratulations, Theresa, on finding the right Keurig! We’re glad we could help. ; )
This article was incredibly helpful. I am long-time Tassimo customer who has now gotten fed up with the lack of selection and availability of coffee pods. I like the idea of the Keurig because of the flexibility (i.e. my K Cup, pods in supermarket, etc.), but when I started shopping, I got completely confused by the various models and the reviews and dissatisfaction of buyers. Your article, especially the color flow chart allowed me to narrow down to a couple of models which allow the greatest flexibility of pod choices: the K145 Elite and K155. Thank you. You saved me a lot of aggravation and cost!
Lisa, thank you for letting us know our article helped. Happy brewing!
Hello, do any of theses make caramel lattes besides the New Rivo?
Eileen, you would need an espresso maker, like the Rivo, to produce true lattes. However, if it’s the flavor you’re looking for, rather than authenticity, there are some creative recipes out there for creating caramel latte concoctions with regular Keurigs and K-Cups. Search Pinterest for “k-cup caramel latte recipe”. Here’s one that looks yummy.
Can the internal tank for the b155 be drained?
Yes, Lisa, the internal tank on the B155 can be drained by disconnecting the tubing in the back that can be attached to a direct water line.
Hi. what is the difference between the keurig K70 and K75?
Jack, the K70 and K75 are identical machines. However, they may be packaged a little differently. For example, one may have extra K-Cups in the box and the other may have a water filter instead. Check out the product descriptions to determine what may (or may not) be different about what’s packaged with the machines. Good luck!
Help I cant decide what to do I have twins that love coffee ad the different brands of the lattes and stuff. I was thinking on getting them the elite k 45 but also saw the elite k40 what is the difference and what the best for them, they live at home so they would be making it and taking it with them to school and so on.. Help !!!
Diane, the K45 has three brew size options (6, 8 and 10 ounces) while the K40 has two. Otherwise the machines are identical (but I’d go with the K45). With the drip try removed they can accommodate a travel mug of 7″ tall, give or take a little, which may be important to your daughters. K-Cups come in many flavors, including lattes and such, but these machines do not brew true espresso. Even so, there are 250+ K-Cup flavors to choose from and many coffee shop flavors. These machines also brew ground coffee using the My K-Cup reusable filter (sold separately). It seems to me that this would be a good machine for your daughters, provided their favorite travel mugs fit – with one hesitation. If they’ll want to make a thermos of coffee to take with them for the day, then one of the Keurig 2.0 machines that brew small carafes of coffee may be a better choice for filling a thermos. Learn more here. Good luck!
We just bought the K460 at Samsclub. Thank you for the information concerning the 2.0 only using the machine readable lids.
I have a question…does the K460 always keep the water in the reservoir pre-heated or does it shut that feature off after a certain time period? If it does keep it pre-heated, I wonder how much electricity it uses and how much it costs to keep it running? My wife is the only one that drinks coffee and usually that’s only 1 or 2 cups in the morning.
Larry, the K450 uses 1500 watts and has an energy saver feature. You can program when you want the machine to turn on and heat in the morning (you still need to manually activate the brew cycle). You can also program when it should turn off for the day (set it for X number of minutes after the last brew). So, to answer your question, once the Auto Off has been set to your specifications, the machine will turn off and water cool until the time you specify for Auto On to kick in, which sounds perfect for your needs. Enjoy your machine!
I got the keurig Model 2.0 / 500. I’m disappointed in a lot of things! First of all I used. purified water and it tells me it wants to be descaled every week! I used the power saver feature but every time I did, when I woke up the next morning and turned it on, it didn’t work for 45 minutes and I had to play with it that long before it would! Finally there’s the DRM, the scanner that allows you to only use the expensive Keurig K Cups for brewing coffee! I obtained something called the freedom ring which allows me to buy the other brands of coffee pods for half the price! I sure wouldn’t buy it again!!!
Jeff, I’m sorry to hear you’re having so many problems with your Keurig. It sounds like your machine is defective, as it’s definitely not working as it should. I suggest you call Keurig and explain the troubles you’re having (866-901-2739). They’re very good about honoring the warranty and making sure your machine is performing as it should. Good luck!
P.S. Don’t mention the freedom ring, as Keurig won’t be thrilled to know you’re “gaming” the system (and it might affect the warranty – I don’t know for sure). It’s a great addon (http://www.pinterest.com/pin/378161699935811357/) and should not have any effect on the other issues, which are related to the timer.
I love the Keurig Office Pro B145 and the B130! People are always complaining about the pumps going bad on home models, but i have had zero problems with either commercial machine. The B145 lives at home and has been extremely dependable. The B130 sits on my computer table at work and makes me a cup of tea or ccffee whenver I want it with minimum fuss. We actually bought a second one to take traveling–we regularly stay at a no-frills hotel in Maine that has very few amenities, and this works pefectly.
Thank you for sharing your experience, Beatrix! You make a great point. I read somewhere that the commercial machines are built to handle 10 times the usage that home machines typically receive. But, it’s important to remember to pay attention to UL listings and choose appropriately for the location where the machine will be used (as you have!). Thank goodness Keurig has commercial models that are also listed for Household use (K145/B145, K155/B155). Those who drink a lot of coffee are likely to find that these machines last longer in the home than some of the other models.
Just bought my first machine for the family Christmas present. Decided on the k45 elite. over the 2.0 did not want to be limited to what k cup I could use since our favorite coffee is Gevalia. I hope I made the right choice?
Alan, that’s an excellent choice for your first Keurig. I would be thrilled, and I bet your family will be too! ; )
Great article!!
Thanks for the information.
It’s very helpful, I was confused which Keurig to buy. As there are so many out in market
But after reading this I have decided to buy
Keurig 560
Congratulations, Pinky, on finding your Keurig. Thanks for letting us know our article helped!
Loved your article. I had the K300, but it frustrated me that I could not use ground coffee anymore and was limited to only using the K-cups. Today I went and bought myself the Elite, which I can now use for my ground coffee as well. Great article. Thanks.
Glad we could help, Marlene, and thanks for letting us know! Sounds like you found just what you need. Happy brewing!
I just purchased 2 Keurig machines. A K350 w/carafe and a K145 OfficePro. I want to give one machine to my daughter for Christmas and the other for a high school senior party gift for dorm room use. My daughter has friends & family come to visit and after reading this information, I’m not sure which one to give her. Of course I want to give her the better of the two. What do you suggest?
Hi Lori,
I can think of pros and cons for either option, but the deciding factor is probably the UL listings. While some dorms allow students to use machines that are listed for Household Use Only, some require machines listed for Commercial Use Only. Since the K145 is listed for both, that’s the safest choice for the student.
That fits with my original thought of recommending you give your daughter the K350, which is great for entertaining as well as daily use. That machine is also likely to require a larger coffee budget in order to take advantage of all of the brew size options (cups, travel mugs and carafes).
The K350 is great for entertaining because of the larger water reservoir and being able to brew a carafe (instead of having to wait for individual cups).
To take full advantage of the machine, the K350 requires buying K-Cups and K-Carafe packs (and maybe eventually Vue packs, too, for larger mug sizes). I’m guessing your daughter may better be able to afford the ongoing coffee costs than a college student.
The K145 is built for heavier use, has a smaller water reservoir, has fewer cup size options and can accept third-party reusable filters for ground coffee, which may fit better in the dorm room (ground coffee would be easier on student budgets).
The argument can be made that the K145 would be a better choice for your daughter because it’s built for heavier use. But I’m going to side with economics and UL listings and suggest you give her the K350 and give the K145 to the student (I can imagine everyone on the floor using it!).
I hope this helps. Let us know what you decide. (And wow, what great gifts, whatever choice you make!)
Awesome! I love the flowchart. Helped me make up my mind to get the k45
That’s great, Allan! Glad we could help.
Thanks for posting all of the info on the Keurig coffee makers. I have decided on the B145.
That’s a great choice, Rick, and thanks for letting us know our info helped you find the right machine. Happy brewing!