If you’re after a coffee maker that combines convenience with versatility, the Keurig K-Elite should be on your radar.
I’ve put this machine through its paces, and it has a lot to offer—from customizable brew strength to a generous water reservoir. Whether you’re rushing out the door or savoring a quiet morning, the K-Elite delivers your coffee just how you like it.
I’ll share my experience with this coffee maker, including all the features, how it compares with other Keurig models, and tips on getting the most out of it.
Let’s see if the K-Elite truly lives up to the hype and whether it’s the right brewer for you.
| Dimensions | 9.9″D x 13.1″W x 12.7″H |
| Brew Sizes | 4, 6, 8, 10, 12 oz |
| Strong Brew Button | Yes |
| Coffee Temperature Options | Yes |
| Iced Coffee | Yes |
Key Features of the Keurig Elite
1. Strong Brew Option
The strong brew setting is one of the K-Elite’s standout features. If you prefer a bold cup of coffee, this button is your friend.
I use it almost every morning to give my coffee that extra depth of flavor. The difference is noticeable; the strong brew adds a richer taste without the bitterness.
This setting is ideal for dark roast lovers or anyone who feels their coffee sometimes tastes too weak.
2. Fast Brewing Time
A busy morning can’t wait for a slow coffee maker. That’s where the K-Elite shines, brewing a cup in under a minute.
I’ve timed it, and it consistently delivers a hot cup of coffee in less than 60 seconds, even when I choose the larger sizes.
It has five cup sizes: 4, 6, 8, 10, and 12 ounces. For a quick morning boost, I usually go with the 8-ounce size, but the 4-ounce option works great for a concentrated coffee shot if you want to mix it with milk or cream.
Best of all, you only have to wait 30 seconds for the machine to reheat and it’s ready to brew again. This is especially beneficial if you live in a household of coffee lovers.
3. Large Water Reservoir
One of my favorite features is the 75-ounce water reservoir. This large capacity means fewer refills, especially if you’re making multiple cups throughout the day.
With some smaller coffee makers, such as the Dolce Gusto Genio S, I used to find myself refilling the water tank almost daily, sometimes even twice a day. But with the K-Elite, I can go about a week without needing to top it up.
Pro tip: Use filtered water. Not only does it improve the taste, but it also helps prevent mineral buildup inside the machine, which means less descaling.
4. Temperature Control
The K-Elite lets you choose your brewing temperature, ranging from 187°F to 192°F. At first, I didn’t think this would matter much, but I’ve found that different temperatures really do affect the coffee’s flavor.
For a light roast, I lower the temperature to 187°F to keep the delicate flavors intact. When I’m craving a darker, more robust cup, I crank it up to 192°F.
This flexibility allows you to fine-tune your brew to match your preferences and the type of coffee you’re using.
5. Quiet Brew Technology
Early mornings are a lot more peaceful with the K-Elite’s Quiet Brew Technology. It’s not completely silent, but it’s significantly quieter than many other models I’ve tried (looking at Dolce Gusto again).
I can brew my first cup without worrying about waking up the whole house. If you’re sensitive to noise or simply prefer a quieter morning routine, this is a feature you’ll really appreciate.
6. Maintenance and Cleaning
Maintaining the K-Elite is pretty hassle-free. The drip tray is removable, making it easy to clean, especially if you occasionally brew into a taller travel mug. You can fit a travel mug size 7.2 in.
The water reservoir has a removable lid, so you can clean and refill it without much effort. As for descaling, the machine provides a reminder when it’s time, which is a helpful feature.
I usually descale it every three months to keep it in top shape.
Brewing with the Keurig Elite
Brewing with the K-Elite is as straightforward as it gets. Pop in a K-Cup, select your preferred cup size and press the strong button if you want that bolder taste.
I’ve experimented with various K-Cup brands, and they all work well in this machine. The strength and temperature controls let you really fine-tune each cup.
For example, when I use a light breakfast blend, I set the temperature lower and skip the strong brew to bring out its subtle flavors. For a dark roast, I go for the highest temperature and press the strong button to intensify the taste.
If you prefer using your own coffee grounds, a reusable K-Cup works great in this machine. I’ve tried different grinds and found that a medium grind provides the best flavor without clogging the filter.
It’s a nice way to enjoy your favorite coffee without being limited to pre-packaged pods.
Coffee Quality with the Keurig Elite
The quality of coffee brewed with the Keurig Elite is noticeably better than what you’d get from some of the older models.
One of the biggest reasons is the combination of the strong brew option and temperature control. These features let you tweak the flavor to your liking, which makes a big difference if you’re particular about how your coffee tastes.
For me, the strong brew button has been a game-changer. I typically use medium to dark roast K-Cups, and this setting really brings out the full-bodied flavor without making the coffee taste overly bitter.
One of the standout features of the Keurig Elite is its iced coffee setting. It makes a convenient, quick, and flavorful cup without the watered-down taste that sometimes comes with traditional brewing methods.
When using the iced setting, the Keurig Elite brews a more concentrated coffee directly over ice. This process ensures the flavor remains strong even as the ice melts, giving you a refreshing, balanced iced coffee.
The coffee comes out tasting bold and smooth, rather than overly diluted. For the best results, I recommend filling your cup with ice to the top before brewing and using the strong brew option if you like a more intense flavor.
Who Should Buy the Keurig Elite?
The Keurig Elite is ideal if you want quick, customizable coffee without the hassle of traditional brewing methods.
If you enjoy a strong brew and appreciate features like temperature control, this machine is worth the investment. It’s also a great choice if you have a household with multiple coffee drinkers, thanks to the large water reservoir and quick brew time.
Comparison with Other Keurig Models
Keurig K-Classic
Compared to the K-Classic, the K-Elite offers more customization.
The K-Classic lacks the strong brew option and temperature control, so if you’re looking for versatility, the K-Elite is the better choice.
The larger water reservoir on the K-Elite also means fewer interruptions to refill, which is a significant convenience if you’re making several cups a day.
Keurig K-Supreme
The K-Elite and K-Supreme are often compared for their advanced features.
The K-Supreme has multi-stream technology, which helps saturate the coffee grounds more evenly. While that can enhance flavor, I found the K-Elite’s temperature control and large water reservoir more practical for daily use.
If you prefer a quick, customizable brew, the K-Elite edges out the K-Supreme in terms of ease of use.
Check out the K Supreme Plus and K Supreme Plus Smart reviews here.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can you use non-Keurig pods with the Keurig Elite?
Yes, you can use non-Keurig pods, but I’ve noticed that the taste and brewing process are often better with Keurig-branded pods. For your own ground coffee, a reusable K-Cup works perfectly—just go for a medium grind to avoid clogging.
How often does the Keurig K Elite need to be descaled?
Keurig K Elite needs to be descaled every three months. The machine has a handy reminder, so you don’t have to keep track. Just use a descaling solution and follow the instructions to keep your coffee tasting fresh.
Is the temperature control on Keurig K Elite worth it?
Yes, the temperature control on Keurig K Elite is worth it. Adjusting the temperature really changes the flavor profile of your coffee. For a light roast, a lower temperature brings out the nuanced flavors, while a higher setting is perfect for a bold dark roast.
Keurig K Elite Review: Final Thoughts
The Keurig K-Elite has become a staple in my kitchen. Its strong brew option and temperature control give you the flexibility to make each cup just how you like it.
The large water reservoir and quiet operation are big pluses, especially if you’re brewing multiple cups a day.
If you’re in the market for a coffee maker that offers both speed and customization, the K-Elite is definitely worth considering.
Still not sure if this is the Keurig coffee maker for you? Check out more Keurig coffee maker reviews:
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