This post may contain affiliate links. Please read my disclosure for more info.
Pod coffee machines are the ultimate in easy brewing. If you ask around, almost everyone will mention the same name first: Keurig. It’s the go-to choice for a quick, hassle-free cup of coffee.
Way before we ever argued about Keurig Elite versus Select, Keurig stepped into the scene, taking on big names like Sara Lee and Proctor & Gamble. It’s no secret how that battle ended. While Sara Lee might be a pro at whipping up frozen treats, Keurig quickly became the king of pod coffee makers, leaving the competition in the dust.
Since its start, the company has introduced many new Keurig models, each with its own unique features. While all Keurigs function in a similar way, there are important differences to note. This article will explore two favorites: the Keurig Elite and Keurig Select. Let’s dive in and find out what sets them apart!
Keurig Elite Pros and Cons
Pros
- Larger 72-oz water tank
- Can make iced coffee
- Has temperature control option
- Adds 4 oz cup size
- Programmable auto-on feature
Cons
- More Expensive
- Slightly larger size
Keurig Select Pros and Cons
Pros
- Cheaper
- Slightly smaller size
- More color options
Cons
- Smaller 52-oz water tank
- No iced coffee option
- No temperature control option
- No 4 oz cup size
- No programmable auto-on feature
What’s the Difference Between Keurig Elite and Select?
The Keurig K-Elite and K-Select are part of Keurig’s main lineup, just like the K-Classic. They’re designed for easy, single-serve coffee at home. They share more similarities with each other than with Keurig’s special K-Cafe or the dual-use K-Duo models.
The K-Elite coffee maker stands out for a couple of reasons. First, it introduces a smaller 4 oz cup size, adding to the 6, 8, 10, and 12 oz options you get with the K-Select. Plus, as we’ll explore later, it offers a unique feature for making iced coffee that’s pretty cool.
The K-Elite coffee maker has a feature that lets you adjust the temperature, but it’s a bit limited. You can only set it between 187 to 192 degrees Fahrenheit. However, the best temperature for brewing a delicious cup of coffee is actually between 195 and 205 degrees. We’ll dive deeper into why this matters shortly.
The K-Elite’s auto-on feature is cool, but what really shines is its quick brew time. Yet, what’s even better? Waking up to the delicious aroma of fresh coffee. Honestly, who wouldn’t love that?
The K-Elite and K-Select models are a big step up from the older K-Classic, especially when it comes to how much water they can hold. With a 72-oz tank, the K-Elite lets you brew about 12 small (6-oz) cups or 9 regular (8-oz) cups before you need to refill it. On the other hand, the K-Select’s 52-oz tank is good for 8 small cups or 6 regular cups. This means less refilling and more sipping, which is great for frequent coffee drinkers like me.
Struggling with limited kitchen space? The K-Select might just be your perfect fit. It’s a bit more compact, measuring 12.5″ in height, 9.2″ in width, and 11.6″ in depth. In comparison, the K-Elite is a tad larger at 13.1” high, 9.9” wide, and 12.7” deep. While this might not seem like a big deal to many, anyone who’s ever lived in a snug apartment knows how precious every inch can be.
What Type of Coffee Do Keurig Elite and Select Make?
Both machines work with Keurig k-cup pods, from official Keurig ones to other brands. You’ll find a variety of choices, like flavored coffees, dark roasts, and more. Plus, you can use refillable pods with them too.
Both offer a powerful coffee setting, essential for those who find Keurig coffee too mild. This option slows down brewing, ensuring your cup is packed with that much-needed caffeine kick.
Let’s dive into the iced coffee feature of the K-Elite I promised to talk about. You might think making iced coffee is as simple as tossing some ice cubes into your coffee. But, here’s the catch: as the ice melts, it waters down your drink, leaving you with something more like tinted water than coffee. And if you’ve tried Keurig coffee, you know it’s not the strongest. The beauty of the K-Elite’s iced coffee setting is that it brews a stronger coffee to beat the ice dilution, ensuring your iced coffee stays deliciously robust.
Remember how I mentioned the importance of controlling temperature? This tiny detail is a game-changer for iced coffee. Both machines can make it, but the iced setting is special. It brews your coffee at the lowest temperature possible, making your iced drink not just cold, but perfectly strong too. Think of the iced option as your quick path to cool, robust coffee.
How Easy Are Keurig Elite and Select to Use and Clean?
The Keurig Elite and Select models are super user-friendly, perfect for pod coffee lovers. Just pop in a pod, shut the lid, place your mug, press a button, and voilà – your delicious coffee is ready in no time!
Keeping your Keurig clean is a breeze! Every day, a quick wipe and an empty drip tray will do. But, don’t forget to descale it every 3-6 months to keep it running smoothly. While Keurig recommends their descaling solution, vinegar is an option—just be cautious, as it might shorten your machine’s life. Happy brewing!
How Much Do Keurig Elite and Select Cost?
The Keurig Select is priced at $130, while the Keurig Elite is a bit pricier at $170. Despite this, they’re both in the same price league as other easy-to-use machines, like Nespresso’s pod-based options and Ninja’s coffee systems.
Consider the cost of coffee pods. Generic pods are cheaper than name-brand ones, costing around $0.35 to $0.50 each. However, using refillable pods can save you even more money, though they’re a bit less convenient.
Additional Features with Keurig Elite vs Select
The K-Elite and K-Select won’t hold a carafe, but they’re great for travel mugs! Plus, they have an auto-off feature to help save energy.
Both Keurigs brew your coffee super fast, usually in less than a minute!
Keurig Elite vs Select: Which One Is Better?
Are you a fan of iced coffee? Does the idea of constantly refilling a water tank seem like a hassle? Or, would saving $40 sound more appealing to you? While there are other aspects I’ve mentioned, these are the key points to consider.
I didn’t talk about fancy coffee drinks or espressos yet. You can’t make those with the machines I mentioned. But, don’t worry! For your espresso and specialty drink cravings, check out the Keurig K-Cafe, Nespresso machines, or Ninja coffee systems. They’re perfect for those drinks.
