Which Keurig Coffee Maker Is Right for You? We Tested 30 Models Side-by-Side to Find Out
From single cups to large carafes, these machines made the best brews
From single cups to large carafes, these machines made the best brews People:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(jpeg)/peo-primary-keurig-machines-oct-24-dburreson-001-2-2-4c01a1196a7c42778e45f999f34cdb93.jpeg "An assortment of Keurig machines we recommend on top of a table")
Keurig is famous for its single-serve machines that brew one cup at a time with pre-portioned pods called K-Cups. But the brand makes many other coffee makers, from hot-iced combos and classic drip carafes to dual-action hybrids that can brew several cups or just a single mug.
To find out which ones are worth buying (for yourself or as a thoughtful gift), we tried nearly 30 models firsthand, evaluating them on design, performance, flavor, and more.
These are the best Keurig coffee makers PEOPLE tested for households with one or several coffee drinkers.
Best Overall: Keurig K-Brew + Chill Coffee Maker
Amazon
Star Qualities
Makes hot and cold coffee
User-friendly; no learning curve
Quick, quiet operation
Easy to clean
Red Flags
Drip tray can splash during brewing
Not as compact as other models
The best Keurig we tested was the K-Brew + Chill. This dual-action machine gives you the option to make hot or cold coffee to enjoy over ice. We like that there's a “strong” brew setting for those who like bolder flavor and a little extra caffeine. The iced coffee feature is remarkably user-friendly and delivers a non-watery, perfectly chilled result. You can also use it to make tea or hot cocoa by dispensing hot water.
This coffee maker has straightforward controls and no learning curve. It operates quietly and quickly, taking just seven seconds to start moving water through the K-Cups. The drip tray sometimes splashes during brewing, but all parts are easy to clean, and the water reservoir is dishwasher-safe.
Though it's not as compact as other Keurigs, the K-Brew + Chill is smaller than most multifunctional coffee machines. We think the price is more than fair, especially considering the money saved by skipping iced coffee runs.
Type: Single-serve hybrid (hot and iced) | Dimensions: 12.2 x 15.4 x 9.8 inches | Reservoir: 70 ounces
Star Qualities
Keurig's most affordable model
Very compact and easy to move around
Incredibly simple operation
Fuss-free cleaning
Red Flags
Must add water before each use
Very minimal functionality
The K-Mini is Keurig's most affordable coffee maker, but that's not the only thing we like about it. As less than 5 inches wide, the incredibly compact design is ideal for those short on counter space. You can also move it around and stash it when it's not in use. It's exceptionally easy to use — pop in a pod, close the lid, and press the large start button.
This machine brews quietly and produces consistent, full-bodied java with a rich aroma. The reservoir is super easy to fill, though you'll need to add a mugful of water before each use (that's all it holds). The K-Mini is a breeze to clean, as the K-Cup holder and drip tray are machine-washable. In the end, we think this coffee maker is well worth its under-$100 price tag.
Type: Single-serve | Dimensions: 12.1 x 11.3 x 4.5 inches | Reservoir: 12 ounces
Best Value: Keurig K-Express Single Serve Coffee Maker
Amazon
Star Qualities
Wallet-friendly yet highly functional
Quiet, quick, efficient brewing
Smooth, consistent flavor
Easy to fill and clean
Red Flags
Not ideal for households with multiple coffee drinkers
Drip tray isn't removable; doesn't fit larger mugs
Keurig's K-Express offers the most bang for your buck. For under $100, you'll get a straightforward, quiet, quick-brewing coffee maker. It's so easy to use that we didn't even need to read through the instructions. The coffee was smooth with no grounds at the bottom. It had a consistently good flavor, and there's a “strong” setting for those who prefer a bolder brew.
The compact design is perfect for small spaces. The water reservoir was easy to fill, and the entire machine was a breeze to clean. As a single-serve machine, it may not be the best option for households with multiple coffee drinkers. And since the drip tray isn't removable, it limits the size of mugs you can place underneath the brewer.
Still, the K-Express is a killer value. It's great for single people or as a gift for dorm or apartment dwellers with limited square footage.
Type: Single-serve | Dimensions: 12.8 x 5.1 x 12.6 inches | Reservoir: 42 ounces
Best Single-Serve: Keurig K-Classic Coffee Maker K-Cup Pod
Amazon
Star Qualities
Good for solo coffee drinkers
Simple, intuitive controls
Works quickly and quietly
Fits under cabinets
Red Flags
Flavor and aroma aren't very bold
If you're the only coffee drinker in your household or you need something for your office, Keurig has many single-serve models. We're particularly fond of the K-Classic on account of its simple, intuitive controls, which let you choose from three cup sizes. Brewing is quiet and notably fast, taking just 30 seconds to heat the water and another 30 seconds to brew.
Though the coffee we brewed wasn't very bold, you can buy a wide range of K-Cup pods with varying strengths and flavor profiles. We like that the stout design fits underneath cabinets, even with the lid open, and takes up minimal counter space. All things considered, this coffee maker is an excellent value.
Type: Single-serve | Dimensions: 13.3 x 13.2 x 10.1 inches | Reservoir: 48 ounces
Related: The 3 Best Single-Serve Coffee Makers of 2024 Rival Our Favorite Keurigs
Best Carafe: Keurig K-Duo Plus Coffee Maker
Amazon
Star Qualities
Makes full pot or single-serve cup
Carafe keeps coffee warm for two hours
Easy, straightforward operation
Programmable start time
Red Flags
Higher price point for Keurig
Not as compact as others
Prefer drip coffee machines? Keurig makes those, too. The K-Duo Plus brews a 12-cup carafe of coffee in less than 15 minutes and stays warm for two hours. We loved how easy it was to operate, thanks to the backlit controls and straightforward button icons. You can program it to start brewing at a specific time up to 24 hours in advance, and it'll automatically power down once it's finished brewing.
Besides a full carafe, you can make a single cup of coffee using a K-Cup pod in just 45 seconds. This model is slightly larger than average for a Keurig, but it's still relatively compact compared to many other drip coffee makers. The K-Duo Plus is also on the pricier end for the brand, but we think it's reasonable since it's two types of coffee machines in one.
Type: Hybrid drip and pod | Dimensions: 14.9 x 15.9 x 7.7 inches | Reservoir: 60 ounces
Best Compact: Keurig K-Compact Single-Serve K-Cup Pod Coffee Maker
Amazon
Star Qualities
Slim and short; fits almost anywhere
Fast, quiet brewing
Removable drip tray to fit travel mug
Red Flags
Not as feature-rich as larger models
Cleaning pod holder needle can be tricky
If you need something on the smaller side but want more than the very basic functionality, the Keurig K-Compact might be the one. This coffee machine is slim and short, so it has a minimal countertop footprint and easily fits underneath hanging cabinets, even with the lid open.
You can choose from four cup sizes up to 10 ounces and remove the drip tray to place a travel mug underneath the spout. Brewing is notably fast — you'll have a mugful of hot coffee in under a minute, with a full aroma and a consistent taste. There's also an automatic shut-off feature that powers down after each use.
Cleaning the pod holder needle can be tricky, as you need a paper clip. And while this coffee maker doesn't have a carafe or cold coffee option, it does quite a bit for such a small machine.
Type: Single-serve | Dimensions: 12.5 x 8.2 x 13.2 inches | Reservoir: 32 ounces
Most Versatile: Keurig K-Duo Hot & Iced Single Serve & Carafe Coffee Maker Gen 2
Target
Star Qualities
Makes full pot or single-serve hot or iced
Keeps brewed coffee warm for two hours
Robust functionality
Sleek with relatively small footprint
Red Flags
All parts must be hand-washed
Requires regular descaling
Looking for a reasonably priced coffee machine that does it all? This tricked-out K-Duo model is your best bet. On the right side is a single-serve brewer, where you can make both hot and iced coffee using K-Cups. On the left is a drip coffee maker that uses your ground coffee of choice to brew a full carafe. There's even a hot plate that keeps the coffee warm in the carafe for two hours.
Considering its robust functionality, the footprint is pretty minimal. Overall, the design is sleek and modern, with an intuitive control panel and user-friendly functions. We also like that the removable reservoir holds 72 ounces of water. All parts need to be hand-washed, and the carafe calls for occasional descaling. But otherwise, we have no complaints.
Editors Say
"My husband and I have very different coffee preferences: He likes black coffee, and I prefer my coffee on ice with a splash of creamer. This hybrid machine means we don’t have to compromise one bit in the mornings. Plus, it’s great for when we have guests over because we can brew an entire carafe." —Kayla Kitts, shopping editor
Type: Hybrid single-serve and carafe | Dimensions: 12.9 x 12.7 x 11.1 inches | Reservoir: 72 ounces
Best for Lattes: Keurig K-Café Single-Serve K-Cup Coffee Maker
Amazon
Star Qualities
Makes regular coffee and concentrated shots
Milk frother for hot or cold foam
Parts are easy to fill, remove, and clean
Red Flags
Parts aren't dishwasher-safe
Larger footprint than other models
Those who like making barista-level drinks at home will appreciate the K-Cafe. This Keurig machine makes regular cups of coffee using any K-Cup, or you can press the “shot” button to dispense concentrated, espresso-like shots. What's more, an integrated milk frother can create warm or cold foam for lattes or cappuccinos.
Despite all these features, we found this Keurig beginner-friendly. The control panel is straightforward, and the removable water reservoir is no problem to fill. It brews quietly and quickly, taking less than two minutes to whip up a latte. Though the parts aren't dishwasher-safe, they're easy to remove and wash by hand. The K-Cafe has a bigger footprint than other models, but if you have the space and want to make cafe-style drinks, we think you'll be pleased.
Type: Single-serve hybrid (coffee and lattes) | Dimensions: 12.5 x 15.3 x 11.7 inches | Reservoir: 60 ounces
Related: The 6 Best Espresso Machines We Tested for Great-Tasting Lattes at Home
Best for Dorms: Keurig K-Slim Single-Serve Coffee Maker With MultiStream Technology
Amazon
Star Qualities
Slim, compact design fits anywhere
Easy to store and transport
Quiet brewing
Red Flags
Temperature and strength aren't adjustable
Very basic features
For a smaller unit you can place anywhere, even spaces without a kitchen or nearby tap water, we recommend the Keurig K-Slim. This slender single-serve coffee maker is under 5 inches wide and only about a foot deep, so you can place it on a desk, cabinet, shelf, or any flat surface within reach of an outlet. Plus, it's easy to tuck away or transport.
The reservoir holds 46 ounces, so you don't need to add water before each use. And when it's time to refill it, you can remove it or pour water from a pitcher or bottle. It's also quieter than most, so it won't disturb a roommate or co-worker.
Though the features are pretty basic — you can't adjust the water temperature or brew strength — the K-Slim makes consistently good-tasting coffee. For some, the simplicity is part of the appeal.
Editors Say
"I consume coffee 24/7, and I admittedly bought the Keurig K-Slim because I thought it was cute (it comes in light pink, after all), and I knew it wouldn't take up very much countertop real estate. However, I quickly came to love it based on more than just its looks. It truly does not get more convenient than this little coffee maker." —Erin Johnson, associate editorial director
Type: Single-serve | Dimensions: 4.7 x 15.2 x 12.1 inches | Reservoir: 46 ounces
What to Know About Keurig Coffee Makers
Types and Functionality
Keurig makes dozens of coffee makers of various types. The brand is best known for its single-serve models, which take K-Cup pods (more on this below). But you'll also find drip coffee makers that brew into large carafes — great for homes with multiple coffee drinkers or those who frequently host guests. Then there are hybrid machines with a single-serve brewer on one side and a drip coffee maker on the other, like the K-Duo Hot and Iced Coffee Maker.
All About K-Cups
Single-serve Keurigs are only compatible with K-Cups, pre-portioned pods filled with ground coffee (or you can use a reusable K-Cup and fill with your go-to grounds). That said, a vast range of coffee brands make K-Cups, including Starbucks, Dunkin', Peet's Coffee, and even McDonald's McCafe. And you can buy these pretty much anywhere — online, big-box stores, coffee shops, you name it.
K-Cups only come in one size, but many Keurig machines allow you to adjust the strength or cup size and will brew accordingly. Some smart Keurig models use BrewID to personalize your home-brewing experience.
Experts Say
"BrewID recognizes your K-Cup pod and recommends optimum settings and a curated menu of recipes for your favorite brews." —Lindsay Fermano, senior director of marketing for Keurig
Special Features
Many shoppers are drawn to Keurig coffee makers because of their simplicity. However, some models have special features to provide more brewing options or take your home barista capabilities to the next level. Besides BrewID, this includes cold brewing for iced coffee, a “strong” mode for extra-bold coffee, a “shot” button for concentrated espresso-like coffee, and a milk frother for making lattes, cappuccinos, and other cafe-style drinks.
Beyond that, some Keurigs allow you to program them to start brewing up to 24 hours in advance. Others have extra-large reservoirs so you don't need to fill the water each time. More advanced models may also have LED touchscreens.
Cleaning and Maintenance
Keurig coffee makers are relatively easy to maintain. Single-serve models typically don't need to be cleaned after each use. Those with carafes will need to be rinsed out, and other removable parts may call for hand-washing or running through the dishwasher. Occasionally, you'll want to descale the water reservoir with a coffee-specific cleaning solution or a mixture of distilled white vinegar and water.
Keurig also makes cleaning K-Cups you can run through with water to clean the inside. And you can wipe down the exterior of your machine as needed.
Price Range
Keurig is considered one of the more affordable coffee maker brands on the market. Of course, cheaper options aren't hard to find, but the brand is a household name, and you can usually depend on the quality. Keurig coffee makers range from about $60 for basic single-serve models like the K-Mini Single-Serve Coffee Maker to roughly $300 for the most feature-rich designs. People / Kayla Kitts
Behind the Scenes
To see which Keurig coffee makers reigned supreme, we tried nearly 30 of the brand's best-known, highest-rated models and put them to the test. In a total of 56 testing hours, we made coffee every day, brewing all cup sizes and full carafes, with 122 mugs of coffee brewed and tasted. The coffee makers were scored on a scale of one to five based on:
- Ease of Use: The best machines were easy to navigate, set up, and clean. Directions were clear enough for all testers to brew a fresh cup, no matter how foggy-brained they might be before their coffee.
- Design: Intuitive designs got top marks in this category — especially the machines with easy-to-read buttons and displays. The top-scoring models wouldn't take up too much real estate on our kitchen counters.
- Performance: Each tester reviewed the machines' brew strength, taste, and temperature. Special features like milk frothers and “shot” buttons were assessed as well.
- Cleaning and Maintenance: We cleaned the machines as directed by the manuals, washing the removable parts and descaling the containers if necessary.
- Value: We considered the cost of each machine and whether the convenience, performance, and features made it worth the price.
People / Dera Burreson
Why Trust PEOPLE?
Theresa Holland is a contributing shopping writer and product reviewer for PEOPLE specializing in small appliances, kitchenware, consumer tech, and lifestyle. Theresa has tried and owned several Keurig coffee makers and knows what to look for when buying single-serve coffee machines for a busy household. For this article, she analyzed the most recent testing insights to add brand-new models and some previously-loved favorites that still came out on top. PEOPLE shopping writer Rennie Dyball is the original author of this article.
Our Expert Panel
- Lindsay Fermano is the senior director of marketing at Keurig.
- Erin Johnson is the associate editorial shopping director at PEOPLE and drinks multiple cups of coffee a day. She's been using a Keurig machine for years and loves the convenience it offers.
- Kayla Kitts is a shopping editor at PEOPLE who has been using a Keurig coffee maker for years. She recently upgraded her 5-year-old Keurig for the new K-Duo and loves being able to make iced coffee in the mornings.
What Is PEOPLE Tested?
We created the PEOPLE Tested seal of approval to help you find the very best products for your life. We use our unique methodology to test products in three labs across the country and with our network of home testers to determine their effectiveness, durability, ease of use, and so much more. Based on the results, we rate and recommend products so you can find the right one for your needs.
But we don't stop there: We also regularly re-review the categories in which we've awarded the PEOPLE Tested seal of approval — because the best product of today might not be the best of tomorrow. And by the way, companies can never buy our recommendation: Their products must earn it, fair and square.
In short, PEOPLE Tested provides recommendations you can trust — every day, every purchase.
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