Every true-blue coffee-lover out there has probably already heard about Keurig machines. While Keurig coffee machines are not going to produce artisanal coffee, these coffee makers can do the job just fine. There’s a reason why approximately 13% of workplaces in the U.S.A. have a Keurig and that in 2019, 1 out of 4 coffee machines sold is a Keurig. (Source)
If you’re planning on purchasing your very own Keurig, you’re probably looking at two popular Keurig options — the Keurig K50 and the Keurig K55. Here are some facts and comparisons.
Contents
Comparison of Keurig K50 vs Keurig K55
The table provided below is a summarized fact sheet of the two coffee makers.
Keurig K50 and Keurig K55 Reviews
Many reviews state that the K50 typically needs 30 seconds more brewing time rather than the promised 1 minute. It also makes noise while brewing. Some users claim that it unexpectedly stops working while in use and breaks quickly. There are also comments about how it adds a plastic-taste to their coffee.
Many K55 reviews state that they find it problematic that it has no features for strength control, high-altitude setting, and that it has no built-in K-cup storage.
Another downside to these two machines is that you have no control over your coffee. Both of these coffee makers have no pressure or temperature control, but that is also the reason why they are cheaper than other machines on the market.
These machines are strictly designed for quick brewing. That means other options, such as, strength of coffee per size you select. If you choose 6 oz or 10 oz, the machine will just add more water and not more coffee. Therefore, larger cup sizes are more watered down and not as strong.
Keurig K50 vs K55, What’s The Difference?
Specifications and Durability
The Keurig K50, weighing 7.6 pounds, weighs almost half of the Keurig K55 which weighs 12 pounds. It is smaller too, with a difference of approximately 1-2 inches. We can safely assume through these dimensions and specifications that the K55, being the later version of the K50, has been built with a better case and interior.
Therefore, in this case, the K55 would have a higher chance of serving you more years than the K50 would. But there is another option to include if you are looking for durability, which is how you care and handle the machine. If you handle it carelessly, neither of the two machines will serve you for a long time.
Features
Both machines have removable drip trays for those who want larger containers. Indicator lights are also available on both machines for the user’s convenience.
Both can be programmed to turn on and off automatically. K55 allows the use of water filters such as charcoal filters. That is not something available with the K50. In this case, in order for the user not to taste chlorine or other chemicals from the tap water, the user needs to use prefiltered water.
Appearance
Coffee-lovers enjoy choosing the design of their coffeemaker as much as choosing their best coffee. Both K50 and K55 are elegant-looking and would look good in any kitchen.
The available colors for these units are jet black and red. These are perfect for kitchens with modern or retro aesthetics. The K55 is available in another color – white which can complete any stylistic theme.
Variety in options
Exploring different flavors of coffee would not be a problem for these Keurigs. There are a hundred of coffee flavor options available in the market. These units are compatible with different coffee pods from manufacturers other than Keurig, so the options are even more varied. Also, they are not just for brewing coffee. You can also use them to make tea, cocoa, and other beverages.
Ease of use
Being convenient to every user should be a part of designing a certain product. It is important that every kind of customer could use it without any hassle. Anyone can use these machines since they just require pushing buttons. The Keurig K55 has a slightly better interface compared to the Keurig 50, thanks to the smoother buttons.
Just push a few buttons, and your coffee will be ready in less than a minute. Both machines can provide you a 48 oz water reserve which is enough for approximately make 6 cups of coffee.
Coffee Quality
Of course, the most important thing is the taste of the coffee produced by the machines. Most coffee blends are developed to be brewed with a ratio of 1 tbsp of coffee to 6 oz. That is the optimal ratio. Stronger coffee can be best brewed in the K55 since it was updated from K50.
Cost
The K50 and K55 are both some of the cheapest coffee maker machines from Keurig. Prices range from $90.00 – $130.00 on Amazon depending on the vendor. The Keurig K55 is a best seller and is still rather cheaper compared to the K50.
Conclusion
You can tell that the Keurig K50 and the Keurig K55 are mostly the same. The K55 has a few advantages in terms of durability, convenience, features, cost, and is consider an upgraded version of the Keurig K50. However, the K50 remains to be well-received, if not better-received by users. Nonetheless, if we have to choose, we will recommend the K55 because of the features and the lower price.