The Best Keurig Coffee Machines of 2024: A Brewtiful Guide to Finding Your Perfect Cup

In the world of coffee, the Keurig machine stands as a champion of convenience, promising you an expedient cup of joe with just a press of a button. And while they tend not to make the best coffee possible, you can’t beat how fast and easy they are to use. Unfortunately, finding the best Keurig machine for you involves sifting through seemingly endless models and machine names, all of which have changed names over the years, adding to the confusion. In this guide, we’ll embark on a journey through the best Keurig machines on the market to help you find the one that will suit you best.

First, I’ll go over my top picks and favorite machines, and then I’ll discuss some factors to consider when buying a Keurig to make sure you get the right one.

Top 5 Best Keurig Coffee Machines of 2023

There are seemingly hundreds of Keurig machines out there…seriously, I feel like this company doesn’t do anything but pump out new versions of their machines on a daily basis with one little thing changed that warrants a new model number and machine name. So, admittedly, I haven’t tried all of them. No one has. Not even Keurig.

But of the ones I HAVE tried, the following five are my favorites.

1. Keurig K-Elite Single-Serve K-Cup Pod Coffee Maker: Best Overall
2. Keurig K-Cafe SMART Single-Serve K-Cup Pod Coffee Maker: Best Luxury Option
3. Keurig K-Mini Single-Serve Coffee Maker: Best On a Budget
4. Keurig K155 Office Pro Single-Cup Commercial Coffee Maker: Best for Office Use
5. Keurig K-Slim Single-Serve Coffee Maker: Best for Small Spaces

1. Keurig K-Elite Single-Serve K-Cup Pod Coffee Maker: Best Overall

The Keurig K-Elite Single-Serve K-Cup Pod Coffee Maker is, in my opinion, the best Keurig you can buy. It’s a coffee machine designed for the discerning coffee lover who craves more than just a morning caffeine fix. With Multi-stream technology and temperature control, the K-Elite is perfect for individuals who appreciate a premium coffee experience, value convenience, and desire a machine that can keep up with their on-the-go lifestyle.

Why I Chose the K-Elite

The K-Elite is my top choice for coffee enthusiasts who savor the finer things in life. Its ‘Strong Brew’ setting elevates your coffee experience by delivering a richer and more robust flavor, ideal for those who appreciate a bolder cup. The iced coffee option is a blessing on sweltering summer days, ensuring you stay refreshed and caffeinated.

The K-Elite’s substantial 75-ounce water reservoir is a time-saver, reducing the frequency of refills, making it perfect for busy mornings and homes with multiple coffee drinkers. Whether you prefer a quick shot or a leisurely, oversized mug, the K-Elite’s adaptability to various cup sizes makes it an excellent fit for all.

Plus, the K-Elite has Keurig’s Multi-stream technology, which delivers the hot water more evenly over the grounds. It still doesn’t make coffee quite as full of flavor as you’d get from a manual brewing method, but it’s noticeably better than what you’d get from most other Keurig machines without it.

Water temperature control is also crucial for dialing in your perfect cup, and the K-Elite is one of the few Keurig machines that offers control over the temperature.

Features

• Temperature Control: The K-Elite allows you to set your preferred brew temperature, catering to those who appreciate a specific level of heat in their coffee.
• Quiet Brew Technology: The machine operates quietly, making it a fantastic choice for early risers in shared living spaces.
• Removable Drip Tray: The drip tray can be removed for easy cleaning, ensuring your countertop stays spick and span.

2. Keurig K-Cafe SMART Single-Serve K-Cup Pod Coffee Maker: Best Luxury Option

The Keurig K-Cafe SMART Single-Serve K-Cup Pod Coffee Maker is a coffee machine for the tech-savvy coffee enthusiast. If you’re the type of person who craves more than just your average cup of coffee and wants to explore the world of lattes and cappuccinos, this is the Keurig for you. It’s designed for those who enjoy the art of coffee-making, appreciate customization, and like to add a touch of sophistication to their daily brew. That luxury and customization come at a price, but I think it’s worth it if you have the budget to cover it.

Why I Chose the K-Cafe SMART

The K-Cafe SMART is a cut above the rest when it comes to coffee innovation. If you’re the kind of person who loves exploring beyond the ordinary, its espresso shot capability lets you craft specialty coffee drinks like lattes and cappuccinos without leaving your home. It also brews regular coffee, so it’s perfect for homes with multiple coffee drinkers that all have different drink preferences.

The ability to program and customize your coffee settings through a mobile app gives you unparalleled control, ensuring your coffee tastes just the way you want it. I personally find it a little silly to work through your phone to make coffee, but it undeniably makes the process simpler and more comfortable.

For those who value efficiency and convenience, the generous 60-ounce water reservoir means fewer trips to the sink, and the dishwasher-safe frother makes post-brew clean-up a breeze. You will need to do a bit more maintenance and cleaning to make sure the components that touch milk stay clean, but again, it’s worth it for the variety of drinks you can make.

The Keurig K-Cafe SMART takes your coffee game to the next level. If you’re someone who loves crafting specialty coffee drinks, values customization, and enjoys the convenience of technology, this machine is an ideal addition to your kitchen.

Features

• Bluetooth Connectivity: The K-Cafe SMART connects to your mobile device via Bluetooth, offering a high-tech approach to brewing coffee.
• Strong Brew, Iced Coffee, and Hot Water on Demand: This Keurig provides an array of options, catering to various coffee preferences.
• Auto-Off Feature: The machine is equipped with an auto-off feature to save energy when not in use.

3. Keurig K-Mini Single-Serve Coffee Maker: Best On a Budget

The Keurig K-Mini Single-Serve Coffee Maker is Keurig’s newest member, a little powerhouse designed for those with tight spaces and tighter budgets. If you’re a coffee lover living in a small apartment, dorm room, or simply appreciate simplicity and value, this Keurig is tailor-made for you. The only real downsides are that there’s no brewing customization, and you have to refill the water reservoir after each cup.

Why I Chose the K-Mini

The Keurig K-Mini is a gem for individuals who live in small spaces or have small budgets to put toward a coffee maker. Its compact design ensures it fits perfectly on a tiny kitchen counter or in a dorm room. It takes up just 54.45 square inches and measures 4.5 in. wide, 11.3 in. deep, and 12.1 in. tall. It’s Keurig’s most compact coffee maker, making it the best Keurig machine for small spaces.

Another thing that sets it apart is the affordability factor; it provides excellent value for your hard-earned cash, ensuring that even those on a budget can enjoy the convenience of a single-serve coffee maker. It’s about half the price of the K-Elite, and although it lacks many of the features that account for that price difference, it’s a great option for anyone just looking for regular coffee every morning without any hassle.

The energy-efficient auto-off feature is perfect for those who care about their environmental footprint. If you prefer a no-frills coffee experience that’s both cost-effective and kind to the planet, the K-Mini is the choice for you.

I will say that it’s a little annoying to have to refill the reservoir every time you make a cup. You put in how much coffee you want out, so you add water for each individual cup. This isn’t a huge deal, but, in my opinion, it’s the biggest drawback. If you just make coffee for yourself, though, that shouldn’t be too much of a problem.

The Keurig K-Mini is the perfect companion for individuals who need their daily caffeine fix but live in small spaces, are on a budget, or simply prefer a minimalist approach to coffee-making. Its compact design, affordable price point, and eco-conscious features make it a smart choice for those who appreciate simplicity and value in their coffee routine.

Features

• Single-Serve Coffee: This Keurig keeps it simple, offering a straightforward and efficient way to make your daily cup of coffee.
• Quiet Brewing: The machine operates quietly, making it ideal for shared living spaces or early mornings.
• Travel Mug Friendly: The removable drip tray accommodates taller travel mugs, making it suitable for those on the go.

4. Keurig K155 Office Pro Single-Cup Commercial Coffee Maker: Best for Office Use

The Keurig K155 Office Pro Single-Cup Commercial Coffee Maker is the unsung hero of office spaces everywhere, delivering a steady stream of coffee to keep you and your colleagues productive and energized. If you’re an office manager, team leader, or simply someone who understands the importance of a well-caffeinated workspace, this Keurig is probably your best option.

Why I Chose the K155 Office Pro

The Keurig K155 Office Pro is a no-brainer for busy offices. Its commercial-grade durability ensures it can handle the relentless demands of an office environment without missing a beat. The large 90-ounce water reservoir keeps the coffee flowing, reducing the frequency of refills and keeping your team fueled and focused. It’s about 50% larger than the biggest reservoirs for residential machines, so it’s a big step up.

The ability to adjust brew temperature and size makes it easy to cater to the varying tastes of your colleagues, ensuring everyone gets the coffee they prefer. Plus, the quiet brew technology ensures a peaceful and productive workspace. If you’re a manager who values a productive and satisfied team, the K155 Office Pro is a wise investment.

The Keurig K155 Office Pro is a reliable workhorse designed for office spaces. With its commercial-grade durability, generous water reservoir, and adjustable settings, it caters to the diverse tastes and needs of a busy team. The quiet brew technology ensures that coffee is brewed discreetly, creating an ideal workspace for productivity. For office managers and team leaders, investing in the K155 Office Pro is an investment in a more efficient, satisfied, and motivated workforce.

The K155 can also be plumbed in, which might be ideal for your space if you have a lot of coffee drinkers and don’t want people to have to refill a reservoir. You will need an additional connection kit and a plumber to connect it for you, but the time saved could be well worth it.

Features

• Drainable Internal Hot Water Tank and Option for Plumbing Connection: The internal hot water tank can be drained for transport, making it ideal for catering or office events. You can also spend a bit more to have this machine plumbed into your office space for ultimate convenience.
• Touch Screen Interface: The machine features a user-friendly touch screen interface for easy operation.
• Compatible with Reusable K-Cups: For those who want to reduce waste, the K155 can be used with reusable K-Cups.

5. Keurig K-Slim Single-Serve Coffee Maker: Best for Small Spaces

For the coffee enthusiasts who reside in compact living spaces, the Keurig K-Slim Single-Serve Coffee Maker is the ideal brewing companion. This sleek and space-saving coffee maker caters to individuals who crave the aroma of freshly brewed coffee without the bulky presence of larger machines. Whether you’re in a small apartment, dorm room, or a shared kitchen, the K-Slim brings a simple and efficient coffee experience right to your countertop.

Why I Chose the K-Slim

The Keurig K-Slim is a fantastic choice for those living in small apartments or shared spaces, where every inch of countertop space counts. Its sleek and slender design doesn’t compromise on performance, allowing you to enjoy the convenience of a single-serve coffee maker without the clutter. It takes up just a touch more room than the K-Mini, at 57.7864 square inches and measuring 4.76 in. wide, 15.2 in. deep, and 12.14 in. tall.

It’s slightly large than the K-Mini, but it also comes with more features. There’s a water reservoir to make brewing multiple cups way more convenient, it has Multi-stream technology to brew better coffee, and you have three pre-programmed cup sizes for some variety, unlike the K-Mini, which doesn’t have any programmable settings.

The affordable price point ensures that quality coffee doesn’t come at a premium. If you’re someone who appreciates simplicity, values your budget, and needs a compact coffee solution that doesn’t skimp on taste, the K-Slim is the perfect match.

Features

• 46oz Water Reservoir**:** The K-Slim has a nice sized water reservoir to make brewing multiple cups more convenient.
• Energy-Efficient Auto-Off: The machine boasts an auto-off feature that helps conserve energy.
• Travel Mug Friendly: The removable drip tray ensures that you can brew directly into taller travel mugs, perfect for those who are always on the move.

Things to Consider When Buying a Keurig

Whether you choose one of the machines above or continue looking through Keurig’s…ahem…extensive catalog of models and machine names, I think it’s crucial that you consider the following options before deciding which is the best Keurig machine for you.

Brew Sizes

One of the biggest advantages of Keurig machines is the ability to brew a single cup at a time in your desired size. Keurig offers pod-based cups ranging from 4 oz espresso shots for a quick caffeine jolt to 12 oz mugs for a generous morning coffee. Consider your typical coffee cup or travel mug sizes and how often you brew for others to select a machine with the right range of brew sizes.

Having the option to brew larger 10+ oz servings can prevent the need to brew twice when you want an extra generous pour. For households or offices with multiple people that prefer different sizes, a wide range of brews ensures everyone gets their perfect cup.

Brewing Time

When you need caffeine in the morning before you run out the door, every second counts. Keurig brew times typically range from under a minute for a 4 oz cup to around 2 minutes for a full 12 oz travel mug. Newer models like the K-Supreme and K-Cafe speed up this process even for larger sizes. If you’re rushing in the mornings, seek out a machine that can deliver that first cup in under 60 seconds.

For larger households where multiple cups are brewed back-to-back, shaving off brewing time prevents frustrating waits between servings. Those with time flexibility can opt for machines with slower brew times to potentially save money. And also…slower brew times tend to lead to better coffee, so convenience is a trade off for quality.

Water Reservoir Capacity

One of the conveniences of a Keurig machine is avoiding frequent water refills while brewing. Reservoir capacities vary widely from 12 oz on the K-Mini to a whopping 78 oz on the K-Supreme PLUS. To determine your ideal capacity, think about factors like the number of coffee drinkers in your household, the size of your go-to mug, and frequency of use.

Larger reservoirs around 60+ oz are ideal for households brewing multiple 12 oz cups per day, while smaller 12 oz capacities can be a good fit for single users brewing one small serving per day. Having to halt your routine to refill the reservoir daily can become annoying over time. Prioritize fewer refills by selecting a larger reservoir if you regularly brew more than a few cups per day.

Strength and Temperature Control

Coffee connoisseurs know that subtleties like brew strength and water temperature can elevate an ordinary cup of joe to an exceptional one. Certain Keurig models allow you to experiment with these factors to create your optimal cup of coffee.

The K-Cafe machine, for example, provides settings for brew strength so you can customize the flavor intensity. Some machines also let you adjust the brewing temperature which affects factors like bitterness and acidity. If consistently excellent cups are a priority for you, look for models with strength and temperature adjustments, like the K-Elite. Tweaking these factors as you try new coffees or your tastes evolve will ensure you can always brew up a good cup.

Frothing Capability

While straight coffee is delicious, there’s something special about a frothy cappuccino or latte topped with steamed milk. If these fancy specialty drinks are part of your regular rotation (or you want them to be), consider a model like the K-Cafe that comes equipped with an integrated milk frother. This allows you to steam and foam milk to create cafe-quality coffee beverages right at home.

Other machines require purchasing a separate milk frother which takes up space and adds cost, and many Keurig machines don’t brew anything but standard coffee, which means buying a standalone frother still won’t make those cafe-style beverages. Having the frother built right in streamlines preparing lattes, cappuccinos, and other milk-based coffee drinks, and having a machine like the K-Cafe that brews espresso-like coffee is ideal.

Programmable Settings

For coffee drinkers who brew the same cup every morning, programmable settings can make the process practically automatic. Many Keurig machines like the K-Elite and K-Cafe allow you to program preferred cup size, brew strength, temperature and more. This means your device can be ready to go with your ideal settings as soon as you wake up. Look for this time-saving programmability if you always stick to a go-to morning brew.

Compatibility

With so many delicious and specialty K-Cup pod varieties available, you want to make sure your Keurig machine can brew them all. Most Keurigs are compatible with coffee, tea, cocoa and more from major brands in 6 to 10 oz pod sizes. However, some may not work with larger 12+ oz pods, while specialty beverage pods sometimes require checking for compatibility.

Study which pod sizes and types the machine can brew to ensure it works with your caffeinated beverages of choice. For households that enjoy variety, a machine compatible with all major pod types prevents limiting your options.

Thankfully, Keurig did away with its 2.0 machines and pods, so any Keurig machine you buy now will be compatible with third-party pods, as well as Keurig-branded pods.

Maintenance

Some models offer simpler maintenance than others. Specifically, any machine that has a milk frother is going to take an additional step to clean every morning. Most Keurig machines have descale warnings, so that portion of the ongoing maintenance is equally as easy regardless of which machine you buy.

Size and Design

Keurig offers stylish and space-saving models to complement any kitchen, like the K-Mini and K-Slim for small kitchens, and the K-Cafe for a high-end look. Make sure to measure your counter space to ensure your chosen machine fits. Also consider available colors and finishes to find an option aligning with your personal style.

Price Range

With models ranging in price from $70 to over $200, there’s a Keurig for just about every budget. Consider how often you plan to use the machine and which specific features are priorities for you to set your budget. Daily coffee drinkers who seek high-end performance and extra features may want to opt for a more premium model. For occasional use or smaller households, an affordable, no-frills Keurig still delivers decent and convenient cups. Determine the brew size, speed, programmability and durability that best suits your habits and go for the model that checks those boxes.

Are Keurigs the Best Home Coffee Makers?

Before you take the plunge into the world of Keurig, it’s essential to acknowledge that there’s no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to coffee. Some coffee purists might scoff at the idea of Keurig coffee, claiming that it can’t match the quality of a freshly ground, pour-over cup. And, to be honest, they’re not wrong. Keurigs might not make the best coffee, but they offer a unique blend of convenience and consistency that many find irresistible..

If you love the convenience of a Keurig machine and enjoy the taste of the coffee it brews, there’s no harm in that. BUT…I do recommend lessening your environmental impact by using a reusable K-cup. That should actually improve your coffee, too, since K-cups tend to contain stale coffee grounds. Step up your Keurig coffee game by grind fresh beans into a reusable K-cup. So, embrace your love for Keurig; it’s your daily ritual that matters the most.

Keurigs excel in various scenarios: they’re great for busy mornings, shared office spaces, or cramped apartments where counter space is at a premium. If you appreciate the swiftness of brewing your cup of coffee without the fuss, Keurig is the way to go.

The Bottom Line: Which Keurig is the Best for You?

In the grand scheme of coffee machines, Keurigs offer a unique and unapologetically convenient coffee experience. The best Keurig for you ultimately depends on your needs and preferences.

If you want the crème de la crème, the Keurig K-Elite will deliver a premium coffee experience with a robust brew, iced coffee option, and a substantial water reservoir. It’s the top choice for those who won’t compromise on quality.

When budget and space are paramount, the Keurig K-Mini is the ideal companion. It may not offer all the bells and whistles, but it still delivers a satisfying cup of coffee without breaking the bank or taking up precious kitchen space.

So, coffee aficionados, it’s time to find your perfect Keurig match. Remember, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer, but in the world of Keurig, your perfect cup of coffee is just a button press away. Cheers to the “brewtiful” world of Keurig coffee-making!

Frequently Asked Questions

Which Keurig model is best for a small apartment or dorm room?

For small living spaces, the Keurig K-Slim Single-Serve Coffee Maker is the ideal choice. Its slender design and space-saving features make it perfect for compact kitchens, dorm rooms, or shared spaces. Despite its small size, it delivers a great cup of coffee without sacrificing quality. Plus, the budget-friendly price point ensures that you get your caffeine fix without breaking the bank.

Can the Keurig K155 Office Pro handle a large office’s coffee needs?

Absolutely! The Keurig K155 Office Pro is designed to cater to high-demand environments. With its commercial-grade durability and large 90-ounce water reservoir, it’s more than capable of keeping up with the coffee needs of a bustling office. The adjustable brew settings and quiet brew technology ensure that it can meet the diverse tastes and working conditions of a busy workspace.

Which Keurig model offers specialty coffee options like lattes and cappuccinos?

The Keurig K-Cafe SMART Single-Serve K-Cup Pod Coffee Maker is your go-to for specialty coffee drinks. It features an espresso shot capability, allowing you to create lattes and cappuccinos in the comfort of your home. With customizable settings through a mobile app, you can tailor your coffee just the way you like it, making it a fantastic choice for those who enjoy gourmet coffee beverages.

Are Keurig machines eco-friendly?

Keurig machines have made strides in becoming more eco-friendly. Many models are compatible with reusable K-Cups, reducing single-use plastic waste. Additionally, some Keurig machines feature energy-efficient auto-off functions to conserve electricity. While Keurig has taken steps to improve its environmental impact, it’s essential to consider your personal eco-consciousness. Using reusable K-Cups and being mindful of your brewing frequency can help reduce your environmental footprint when using a Keurig.