Which Keurig Coffee Maker Is Right for You? We Tested Nearly 30 Models to Find Out

Mar. 15, 2025

In This ArticleView AllIn This ArticleOur Top PicksReviewsWhat to KnowBehind the ScenesWhy Trust PEOPLE?What Is PEOPLE Tested?

In This ArticleView All

In This Article

View All

Our Top Picks

Reviews

What to Know

Behind the Scenes

Why Trust PEOPLE?

What Is PEOPLE Tested?

Photo:People

People

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 athoughtful 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.Our Top PicksBest Overall:Keurig K-Brew + Chill Coffee Maker at Amazon$200Jump to ReviewBest Budget:SALEKeurig K-Mini Coffee Maker at Amazon$100$38Jump to ReviewBest Value:SALEKeurig K-Express Single Serve Coffee Maker at Amazon$90$62Jump to ReviewBest Single-Serve:SALEKeurig Coffee Maker at Amazon$150$100Jump to ReviewBest Carafe:SALEKeurig K-Duo Plus Coffee Maker at Amazon$230$171Jump to ReviewBest Compact:Keurig K-Compact Single-Serve K-Cup Pod Coffee Maker at Amazon$100Jump to ReviewMost Versatile:SALEKeurig K-Duo Hot & Iced Single Serve & Carafe Coffee Maker Gen 2 at Amazon$200$150Jump to ReviewBest for Lattes:Keurig Single-Serve K-Cup Coffee Maker at Amazon$189Jump to ReviewBest for Dorms:SALEKeurig K-Slim Single-Serve Coffee Maker at Amazon$130$99Jump to Review

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 athoughtful 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.

Our Top PicksBest Overall:Keurig K-Brew + Chill Coffee Maker at Amazon$200Jump to ReviewBest Budget:SALEKeurig K-Mini Coffee Maker at Amazon$100$38Jump to ReviewBest Value:SALEKeurig K-Express Single Serve Coffee Maker at Amazon$90$62Jump to ReviewBest Single-Serve:SALEKeurig Coffee Maker at Amazon$150$100Jump to ReviewBest Carafe:SALEKeurig K-Duo Plus Coffee Maker at Amazon$230$171Jump to ReviewBest Compact:Keurig K-Compact Single-Serve K-Cup Pod Coffee Maker at Amazon$100Jump to ReviewMost Versatile:SALEKeurig K-Duo Hot & Iced Single Serve & Carafe Coffee Maker Gen 2 at Amazon$200$150Jump to ReviewBest for Lattes:Keurig Single-Serve K-Cup Coffee Maker at Amazon$189Jump to ReviewBest for Dorms:SALEKeurig K-Slim Single-Serve Coffee Maker at Amazon$130$99Jump to Review

Best Overall:Keurig K-Brew + Chill Coffee Maker at Amazon$200Jump to ReviewBest Budget:SALEKeurig K-Mini Coffee Maker at Amazon$100$38Jump to ReviewBest Value:SALEKeurig K-Express Single Serve Coffee Maker at Amazon$90$62Jump to ReviewBest Single-Serve:SALEKeurig Coffee Maker at Amazon$150$100Jump to ReviewBest Carafe:SALEKeurig K-Duo Plus Coffee Maker at Amazon$230$171Jump to ReviewBest Compact:Keurig K-Compact Single-Serve K-Cup Pod Coffee Maker at Amazon$100Jump to ReviewMost Versatile:SALEKeurig K-Duo Hot & Iced Single Serve & Carafe Coffee Maker Gen 2 at Amazon$200$150Jump to ReviewBest for Lattes:Keurig Single-Serve K-Cup Coffee Maker at Amazon$189Jump to ReviewBest for Dorms:SALEKeurig K-Slim Single-Serve Coffee Maker at Amazon$130$99Jump to Review

Best Overall:Keurig K-Brew + Chill Coffee Maker at Amazon$200Jump to Review

Best Overall:Keurig K-Brew + Chill Coffee Maker at Amazon$200

Best Overall:

Best Budget:SALEKeurig K-Mini Coffee Maker at Amazon$100$38Jump to Review

Best Budget:SALEKeurig K-Mini Coffee Maker at Amazon$100$38

Best Budget:

SALE

Best Value:SALEKeurig K-Express Single Serve Coffee Maker at Amazon$90$62Jump to Review

Best Value:SALEKeurig K-Express Single Serve Coffee Maker at Amazon$90$62

Best Value:

Best Single-Serve:SALEKeurig Coffee Maker at Amazon$150$100Jump to Review

Best Single-Serve:SALEKeurig Coffee Maker at Amazon$150$100

Best Single-Serve:

Best Carafe:SALEKeurig K-Duo Plus Coffee Maker at Amazon$230$171Jump to Review

Best Carafe:SALEKeurig K-Duo Plus Coffee Maker at Amazon$230$171

Best Carafe:

Best Compact:Keurig K-Compact Single-Serve K-Cup Pod Coffee Maker at Amazon$100Jump to Review

Best Compact:Keurig K-Compact Single-Serve K-Cup Pod Coffee Maker at Amazon$100

Best Compact:

Most Versatile:SALEKeurig K-Duo Hot & Iced Single Serve & Carafe Coffee Maker Gen 2 at Amazon$200$150Jump to Review

Most Versatile:SALEKeurig K-Duo Hot & Iced Single Serve & Carafe Coffee Maker Gen 2 at Amazon$200$150

Most Versatile:

Best for Lattes:Keurig Single-Serve K-Cup Coffee Maker at Amazon$189Jump to Review

Best for Lattes:Keurig Single-Serve K-Cup Coffee Maker at Amazon$189

Best for Lattes:

Best for Dorms:SALEKeurig K-Slim Single-Serve Coffee Maker at Amazon$130$99Jump to Review

Best for Dorms:SALEKeurig K-Slim Single-Serve Coffee Maker at Amazon$130$99

Best for Dorms:

Best OverallKeurig K-Brew + Chill Coffee MakerPHOTO: Amazon$200 at Amazon$200 at TargetView on Keurig.com

Best OverallKeurig K-Brew + Chill Coffee Maker

Best Overall

Keurig K-Brew + Chill Coffee Maker

PHOTO: Amazon

$200 at Amazon$200 at TargetView on Keurig.com

Star QualitiesMakes hot and cold coffeeUser-friendly; no learning curveQuick, quiet operationEasy to cleanRed FlagsDrip tray can splash during brewingNot as compact as other models

Star QualitiesMakes hot and cold coffeeUser-friendly; no learning curveQuick, quiet operationEasy to clean

Makes hot and cold coffee

User-friendly; no learning curve

Quick, quiet operation

Easy to clean

Red FlagsDrip tray can splash during brewingNot as compact as other models

Drip tray can splash during brewing

Not as compact as other models

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.

Type:Single-serve hybrid (hot and iced) |Dimensions:12.2 x 15.4 x 9.8 inches |Reservoir:70 ounces

PHOTO: People / Dera BurresonPHOTO: People / Dera BurresonPHOTO: People / Dera BurresonPHOTO: People / Jen HauptPHOTO: People / Jen HauptPHOTO: People / Jen Haupt

Best BudgetKeurig K-Mini Coffee MakerPHOTO: Amazon$100$38 at Amazon$90 at Target$73 at WalmartStar QualitiesKeurig’s most affordable modelVery compact and easy to move aroundIncredibly simple operationFuss-free cleaningRed FlagsMust add water before each useVery minimal functionalityThe 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 ouncesPHOTO: People / Dera BurresonPHOTO: People / Sarah RobertsPHOTO: People / Sarah RobertsPHOTO: People / Sarah RobertsPHOTO: People / Sarah RobertsPHOTO: People / Sarah Roberts

Best BudgetKeurig K-Mini Coffee MakerPHOTO: Amazon$100$38 at Amazon$90 at Target$73 at Walmart

Best BudgetKeurig K-Mini Coffee Maker

Best Budget

Keurig K-Mini Coffee Maker

$100$38 at Amazon$90 at Target$73 at Walmart

Star QualitiesKeurig’s most affordable modelVery compact and easy to move aroundIncredibly simple operationFuss-free cleaningRed FlagsMust add water before each useVery minimal functionality

Star QualitiesKeurig’s most affordable modelVery compact and easy to move aroundIncredibly simple operationFuss-free cleaning

Keurig’s most affordable model

Very compact and easy to move around

Incredibly simple operation

Fuss-free cleaning

Red FlagsMust add water before each useVery minimal functionality

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

PHOTO: People / Dera BurresonPHOTO: People / Sarah RobertsPHOTO: People / Sarah RobertsPHOTO: People / Sarah RobertsPHOTO: People / Sarah RobertsPHOTO: People / Sarah Roberts

Best ValueKeurig K-Express Single Serve Coffee MakerPHOTO: Amazon$90$62 at Amazon$62 at Target$90 at WayfairStar QualitiesWallet-friendly yet highly functionalQuiet, quick, efficient brewingSmooth, consistent flavorEasy to fill and cleanRed FlagsNot ideal for households with multiple coffee drinkersDrip tray isn’t removable; doesn’t fit larger mugsKeurig’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 whoprefer 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 ouncesPHOTO: People / Dera BurresonPHOTO: People / Dera BurresonPHOTO: People / Dera BurresonPHOTO: People / Taylor MessiterPHOTO: People / Taylor MessiterPHOTO: People / Taylor Messiter

Best ValueKeurig K-Express Single Serve Coffee MakerPHOTO: Amazon$90$62 at Amazon$62 at Target$90 at Wayfair

Best ValueKeurig K-Express Single Serve Coffee Maker

Best Value

Keurig K-Express Single Serve Coffee Maker

$90$62 at Amazon$62 at Target$90 at Wayfair

Star QualitiesWallet-friendly yet highly functionalQuiet, quick, efficient brewingSmooth, consistent flavorEasy to fill and cleanRed FlagsNot ideal for households with multiple coffee drinkersDrip tray isn’t removable; doesn’t fit larger mugs

Star QualitiesWallet-friendly yet highly functionalQuiet, quick, efficient brewingSmooth, consistent flavorEasy to fill and clean

Wallet-friendly yet highly functional

Quiet, quick, efficient brewing

Smooth, consistent flavor

Easy to fill and clean

Red FlagsNot ideal for households with multiple coffee drinkersDrip tray isn’t removable; doesn’t fit larger mugs

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 whoprefer 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

PHOTO: People / Dera BurresonPHOTO: People / Dera BurresonPHOTO: People / Dera BurresonPHOTO: People / Taylor MessiterPHOTO: People / Taylor MessiterPHOTO: People / Taylor Messiter

Best Single-ServeKeurig Coffee MakerPHOTO: Amazon$150$100 at Amazon$140 at Target$140 at WayfairStar QualitiesGood for solo coffee drinkersSimple, intuitive controlsWorks quickly and quietlyFits under cabinetsRed FlagsFlavor and aroma aren’t very boldIf 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 ouncesPHOTO: People / Dera BurresonPHOTO: People / Dera BurresonPHOTO: People / Dera BurresonPHOTO: People / Dera BurresonPHOTO: People / Billy PennantPHOTO: People / Billy Pennant

Best Single-ServeKeurig Coffee MakerPHOTO: Amazon$150$100 at Amazon$140 at Target$140 at Wayfair

Best Single-ServeKeurig Coffee Maker

Best Single-Serve

Keurig Coffee Maker

$150$100 at Amazon$140 at Target$140 at Wayfair

Star QualitiesGood for solo coffee drinkersSimple, intuitive controlsWorks quickly and quietlyFits under cabinetsRed FlagsFlavor and aroma aren’t very bold

Star QualitiesGood for solo coffee drinkersSimple, intuitive controlsWorks quickly and quietlyFits under cabinets

Good for solo coffee drinkers

Simple, intuitive controls

Works quickly and quietly

Fits under cabinets

Red FlagsFlavor and aroma aren’t very bold

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

PHOTO: People / Dera BurresonPHOTO: People / Dera BurresonPHOTO: People / Dera BurresonPHOTO: People / Dera BurresonPHOTO: People / Billy PennantPHOTO: People / Billy Pennant

Best CarafeKeurig K-Duo Plus Coffee MakerPHOTO: Amazon$230$171 at Amazon$163 at Walmart$200 at WayfairStar QualitiesMakes full pot or single-serve cupCarafe keeps coffee warm for two hoursEasy, straightforward operationProgrammable start timeRed FlagsHigher price point for KeurigNot as compact as othersPreferdrip 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 ouncesPHOTO: People / Will DickeyPHOTO: People / Isaac NunnPHOTO: People / Isaac NunnPHOTO: People / Isaac Nunn

Best CarafeKeurig K-Duo Plus Coffee MakerPHOTO: Amazon$230$171 at Amazon$163 at Walmart$200 at Wayfair

Best CarafeKeurig K-Duo Plus Coffee Maker

Best Carafe

Keurig K-Duo Plus Coffee Maker

$230$171 at Amazon$163 at Walmart$200 at Wayfair

Star QualitiesMakes full pot or single-serve cupCarafe keeps coffee warm for two hoursEasy, straightforward operationProgrammable start timeRed FlagsHigher price point for KeurigNot as compact as others

Star QualitiesMakes full pot or single-serve cupCarafe keeps coffee warm for two hoursEasy, straightforward operationProgrammable start time

Makes full pot or single-serve cup

Carafe keeps coffee warm for two hours

Easy, straightforward operation

Programmable start time

Red FlagsHigher price point for KeurigNot as compact as others

Higher price point for Keurig

Not as compact as others

Preferdrip 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

PHOTO: People / Will DickeyPHOTO: People / Isaac NunnPHOTO: People / Isaac NunnPHOTO: People / Isaac Nunn

Best CompactKeurig K-Compact Single-Serve K-Cup Pod Coffee MakerPHOTO: Amazon$100$89 at AmazonView on Keurig.comStar QualitiesSlim and short; fits almost anywhereFast, quiet brewingRemovable drip tray to fit travel mugRed FlagsNot as feature-rich as larger modelsCleaning pod holder needle can be trickyIf 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 slimandshort, 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 ouncesPHOTO: People / Dera BurresonPHOTO: People / Dera BurresonPHOTO: People / Niky Cross TaylorPHOTO: People / Niky Cross TaylorPHOTO: People / Niky Cross TaylorPHOTO: People / Niky Cross Taylor

Best CompactKeurig K-Compact Single-Serve K-Cup Pod Coffee MakerPHOTO: Amazon$100$89 at AmazonView on Keurig.com

Best CompactKeurig K-Compact Single-Serve K-Cup Pod Coffee Maker

Best Compact

Keurig K-Compact Single-Serve K-Cup Pod Coffee Maker

$100$89 at AmazonView on Keurig.com

Star QualitiesSlim and short; fits almost anywhereFast, quiet brewingRemovable drip tray to fit travel mugRed FlagsNot as feature-rich as larger modelsCleaning pod holder needle can be tricky

Star QualitiesSlim and short; fits almost anywhereFast, quiet brewingRemovable drip tray to fit travel mug

Slim and short; fits almost anywhere

Fast, quiet brewing

Removable drip tray to fit travel mug

Red FlagsNot as feature-rich as larger modelsCleaning pod holder needle can be tricky

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 slimandshort, 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

PHOTO: People / Dera BurresonPHOTO: People / Dera BurresonPHOTO: People / Niky Cross TaylorPHOTO: People / Niky Cross TaylorPHOTO: People / Niky Cross TaylorPHOTO: People / Niky Cross Taylor

Most VersatileKeurig K-Duo Hot & Iced Single Serve & Carafe Coffee Maker Gen 2PHOTO: Target$200$150 at Amazon$200 at Target$240$170 at Kohls.com

Most VersatileKeurig K-Duo Hot & Iced Single Serve & Carafe Coffee Maker Gen 2

Most Versatile

Keurig K-Duo Hot & Iced Single Serve & Carafe Coffee Maker Gen 2

PHOTO: Target

$200$150 at Amazon$200 at Target$240$170 at Kohls.com

Star QualitiesMakes full pot or single-serve hot or icedKeeps brewed coffee warm for two hoursRobust functionalitySleek with relatively small footprintRed FlagsAll parts must be hand-washedRequires regular descaling

Star QualitiesMakes full pot or single-serve hot or icedKeeps brewed coffee warm for two hoursRobust functionalitySleek with relatively small footprint

Makes full pot or single-serve hot or iced

Keeps brewed coffee warm for two hours

Robust functionality

Sleek with relatively small footprint

Red FlagsAll parts must be hand-washedRequires regular descaling

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.

“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

PHOTO: People / Dera BurresonPHOTO: People / Dera BurresonPHOTO: People / Dera BurresonPHOTO: People / Kayla KittsPHOTO: People / Kayla KittsPHOTO: People / Kayla Kitts

Best for LattesKeurig Single-Serve K-Cup Coffee MakerPHOTO: Amazon$189 at Amazon$230 at Walmart$200 at Wayfair

Best for LattesKeurig Single-Serve K-Cup Coffee Maker

Best for Lattes

Keurig Single-Serve K-Cup Coffee Maker

$189 at Amazon$230 at Walmart$200 at Wayfair

Star QualitiesMakes regular coffee and concentrated shotsMilk frother for hot or cold foamParts are easy to fill, remove, and cleanRed FlagsParts aren’t dishwasher-safeLarger footprint than other models

Star QualitiesMakes regular coffee and concentrated shotsMilk frother for hot or cold foamParts are easy to fill, remove, and clean

Makes regular coffee and concentrated shots

Milk frother for hot or cold foam

Parts are easy to fill, remove, and clean

Red FlagsParts aren’t dishwasher-safeLarger footprint than other models

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.

Type:Single-serve hybrid (coffee and lattes) |Dimensions:12.5 x 15.3 x 11.7 inches |Reservoir:60 ounces

PHOTO: People / Dera BurresonPHOTO: People / Dera BurresonPHOTO: People / Dera BurresonPHOTO: People / Dera BurresonPHOTO: People / Sarah NaftzgerPHOTO: People / Sarah NaftzgerPHOTO: People / Sarah Naftzger

Best for DormsKeurig K-Slim Single-Serve Coffee MakerPHOTO: Amazon$130$99 at Amazon$99 at Walmart$120 at Staples

Best for DormsKeurig K-Slim Single-Serve Coffee Maker

Best for Dorms

Keurig K-Slim Single-Serve Coffee Maker

$130$99 at Amazon$99 at Walmart$120 at Staples

Star QualitiesSlim, compact design fits anywhereEasy to store and transportQuiet brewingRed FlagsTemperature and strength aren’t adjustableVery basic features

Star QualitiesSlim, compact design fits anywhereEasy to store and transportQuiet brewing

Slim, compact design fits anywhere

Easy to store and transport

Quiet brewing

Red FlagsTemperature and strength aren’t adjustableVery basic features

Temperature and strength aren’t adjustable

Very basic features

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.

“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

PHOTO: People / Dera BurresonPHOTO: People / Dera BurresonPHOTO: People / Dera BurresonPHOTO: People / Alex HuangPHOTO: People / Alex Huang

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 theK-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 areusable K-Cupand fill with your go-to grounds). That said, a vast range of coffee brands make K-Cups, includingStarbucks,Dunkin',Peet’s Coffee, and evenMcDonald’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

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 makescleaning K-Cupsyou 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 theK-Mini Single-Serve Coffee Makerto roughly $300 for the most feature-rich designs.

People / Kayla Kitts

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 (a few different times over the course of two years). 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:

People / Dera Burreson

Theresa Hollandis 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 writerRennie Dyballis the original author of this article.

Our Expert PanelLindsay Fermanois the senior director of marketing at Keurig.Erin Johnsonis 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 Kittsis 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.

Our Expert Panel

Lindsay Fermanois the senior director of marketing at Keurig.Erin Johnsonis 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 Kittsis 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.

We created thePEOPLE Tested seal of approvalto 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.

In short, PEOPLE Tested provides recommendations you can trust — every day, every purchase.

source: people.com