Welcome to the world of Keurig coffee makers, where we’re ranking popular models from best to worst. Using our own research and pulling from Just a Dad Videos on YouTube, we’ll take a close look at several models. Whether coffee is your lifeblood or you're like me and like a quick pick-me-up in the morning to get you going, we’ll help you find the Keurig that matches your needs.
5 Popular Keurigs Ranked Worst to Best
5. K-Duo Essentials
4. K-Mini Plus
3. K-Supreme
2. K-Café
1. K-Classic
5. Keurig K Duo Essentials
The Keurig K-Duo Essentials is ranked as the least favorable Keurig model on our list for several reasons.
One of the main issues reported is the design of the water reservoir. It's positioned at the back of the brewer, making it difficult to access and refill. Additionally, its cylindrical shape contributes to water spilling out easily. This can also lead to problems with the Add Water light functioning, as Just a Dad Videos points out.
Another design flaw is the brew filter basket, which is not only hard to insert but also prone to breaking due to its plastic construction.
Performance-wise, the K-Duo Essentials lacks certain features that are desirable in a coffee maker. It doesn't offer a strong brew option, which can be a downside for those who prefer a bolder coffee taste. Moreover, the machine doesn't come with a water filter kit, meaning you would need to purchase it separately. In terms of coffee temperature, the maximum it can reach is around 165° Fahrenheit, which might not be hot enough for some users.
Ease of use is another concern. While the machine is straightforward to operate, it doesn’t have programmable features, limiting the flexibility in brewing. For instance, there’s no option for auto-brewing or scheduling your coffee in advance. Also, it lacks a reusable filter for carafe brewing, requiring you to buy more if you don’t want to use disposable paper filters.
Cleaning and maintenance of the K-Duo Essentials also require attention. Regular descaling and cleaning of the brewer needles are necessary for optimal performance, and as Just a Dad Videos mentions, the Descale light is prone to having issues and not going out after descaling.
Side note, if your descale light won’t go off after descaling, our guide walks you through a step-by-step process to fix it. Additionally, if you want to learn how to descale your Keurig-K Duo in under an hour, this guide walks you through it!
4. Keurig K-Mini Plus
We consider the Keurig K-Mini Plus the second worst among the popular Keurig models for a few reasons. While it is highly appreciated for its compact size, simplicity, and quick brewing time, there are some notable limitations.
One big issue is that you can’t make big batches of coffee at one time, and it’s very time-consuming if you need more than a single cup at once. Another downside is the absence of a brew timer, which means you can't set it to have coffee ready at a specific time.
Users have also reported some inconsistencies in the temperature of the brewed coffee, with some finding the coffee not hot enough. This could be purely personal preference, but it also suggests that there are potential quality control issues. Additionally, there have been mentions of a short warranty period, with some users experiencing malfunctions or breakdowns just after the warranty expires.
Despite these drawbacks, the K-Mini Plus is praised for its space-saving design and ease of use. It's a good fit for people who drink one or two cups of coffee a day and prefer a straightforward, no-fuss coffee brewing process. However, for those who desire more features, larger brewing capacity, or specialty drink options, the K-Mini Plus might not be the ideal choice.
Are you wondering which Keurig model you have? Our guide here lists them all, with pictures! Additionally, if you’re looking for a smaller Keurig for your college dorm or for limited counter space, this guide highlights solid choices.
3. Keurig K-Supreme
The Keurig K-Supreme is a more neutral option for Keurig models with a mix of positives and some notable issues.
On the plus side, the K-Supreme offers multi-stream technology, giving you five streams of hot water pouring on the coffee beans instead of one, which results in a better, more consistent flavor extraction. The machine also offers flexibility in water reservoir placement and is compatible with the My-K-Cup Universal Reusable Coffee Filter, allowing you to use your own coffee grounds.
However, there are several drawbacks that impact the K-Supreme's ranking. One significant issue is its longer brewing time compared to other models like the Keurig K Elite. While longer brewing can lead to a more flavorful coffee, it may not be ideal for single serve coffee machine users looking for a quick cup.
Additionally, there are limitations such as the lack of temperature control and the inability to make specialty drinks with a milk frother.
Another concern is related to reliability and functionality. This machine is known to overheat and then fail to turn on, requiring a manual reset (we wrote an article on how to fix the common issue here). There have also been mentions of the ‘add water' button malfunctioning.
Overall, while the K-Supreme has some solid features, its slower brewing times, lack of certain functionalities, and reliability issues are significant drawbacks that need to be considered. I personally don't recommend it.
2. Keurig K-Café
The Keurig K-Café ranks as the second-best Keurig model for several reasons. The biggest advantage is its ability to brew a range of drinks, like lattes and cappuccinos, in addition to regular coffee.
This versatility is enhanced by its built-in, easy-to-use milk frother that works well with various types of milk, including milk alternatives like soy and almond milk. The frother offers both hot and cold frothing options, making it ideal for a variety of beverages.
Another positive aspect of the K-Café is its user-friendly design. It features intuitive controls, including choices for coffee or latte and cappuccino brewing, four cup sizes, and a strong option.
The coffee maker is travel mug friendly, accommodating mugs up to 7.2 inches tall, which is a practical feature for those on the go. This is great for me as I take a travel mug when I run out the door in the morning.
In terms of maintenance, the K-Café scores high for its ease of cleaning. Many of its parts are dishwasher-safe, including the milk frother and drip tray. Regular maintenance is also simplified with features like a descaling alert, helping users keep track of the cleaning schedule.
However, there are a few drawbacks to consider. The machine is big, which may not be suitable for smaller kitchens. It's also on the pricier side compared to other Keurig models. Additionally, while it does offer a “coffee shot” option that is supposed to resemble espresso, it does not brew real espresso, and real coffee enthusiasts/baristas will be able to tell.
Despite some missing features like temperature control, more coffee strength settings, and MultiStream technology, the Keurig K-Café's combination of functionality, ease of use, and milk-frothing capabilities make it a strong contender, especially for those who enjoy milky coffee drinks
Dutch Bros Coffee fan? Use the K-Cafe to make your favorites at home, like the Dutch Bros’ Annihilator, Dutch Bros Soft Top, or a Strawberry Horchata Chai.
1. Keurig K-Classic
The Keurig K-Classic earns its place as the top-ranked Keurig model for several reasons. Youtube videos and several reviews mention the mechanical simplicity and ease of use, making it a convenient choice for a wide range of users.
Its design includes a removable drip tray to accommodate taller mugs and straightforward controls with three buttons for selecting brew sizes (6, 8, or 10 ounces) and an automatic off function. The indicator lights provide cues for water level, descaling needs, and heating status.
The machine is relatively light and has a compact size, making it convenient to move and fit into various kitchen spaces. It brews standard K-cups and is also compatible with reusable K-cups, which allows you refill the cups and use your preferred ground coffee.
In terms of design, the Keurig K-Classic boasts a sleek appearance with clean lines. The water reservoir is easy to access and refill, contributing to its overall user-friendly design.
Performance-wise, the K-Classic is known for its speed and consistency in brewing. It can brew a cup in about 60 seconds, which is quite fast compared to other coffee machines. The coffee quality is generally good, especially at the 6oz size, although the strength may decrease with larger cup sizes. The machine is also noted for being less noisy than some other models.
Is your Keurig too loud? Our guide here can hopefully help you fix it
Choosing Your Ideal Keurig
In summarizing the top Keurig models, the K-Classic stands out for its simplicity, quick brewing, and consistent quality, making it the top choice. While the K-Café impresses with its milk frothing capabilities for lattes and cappuccinos, the K-Supreme, K-Mini Plus, and K-Duo Essentials each have their unique strengths and limitations. Choosing the right Keurig model depends on individual needs and preferences, balancing features, ease of use, and coffee quality.
