If you are a cafephile, just like me, how can you imagine a productive day without a cup of coffee in the morning? The kick of caffeine makes our day lively.
But for that, you need to buy coffee from a coffee shop or a coffee machine. Keurig K50 and Keurig K55 are quite popular if you just want a cup of coffee without cumbersome customizations.
However, if you don’t go into deep details, you will find these two identical machines are twins with no differences. But there are some major changes between them.
So, if you are having confusion choosing either of them, this K50 vs K55 review will drive them away. Anyway, before going deep into this article, let me clarify, I prefer K55 over K50. As for the reason, no more spoilers.
Keurig K50 vs K55 – Why is the Keurig K Classic K55 more popular?
The K50 and K55 have a lot of identical features and they are quite similar at a glance. But there are some minor (even big) changes that set them apart.
- Although the K55 was built as a separate model, it is now widely known as an upgraded version of the K50 coffee maker.
- It offers the same 3-cup size and 40 oz water reservoir as Keurig K50 but is additionally compatible with Keurig’s charcoal water filters and has a handy flashlight to warn you when the water is not enough.
- Both K50 and K55 have auto-shut-off features, but K55 is more energy-efficient and automatically shut off after 2 hours.
- The K55 will cost you some extra dollars, but it has a charcoal filter to create better and smoother coffee.
In the end, although both K55 and K50 are like siblings of the same mother, there is still a gap between them. And, K55 is sure the winner here. So, I preferred it earlier. But, many users still love the Keurig K50 coffee maker.
What is the difference between Keurig K50 and K55?
Keurig K50 and K55 are quite similar in many aspects, starting from looks to materials. But, there are some minor changes in the upgraded version of K50, Keurig K55. The noticeable change starts with active charcoal water filters. A handy flashlight to warn you is also newly added. Now, let’s know the other differences.
Performance
When it comes to evaluating the performance of coffee makers, speed is a crucial factor to consider. However, there are two types of speed to take into account – the time it takes to brew the first cup of coffee, and the time it takes to brew subsequent cups.
Both the Keurig K55 and K50 take around 4 to 5 minutes to warm up and brew the first cup of coffee. After that, the Keurig K55 takes about 1 minute to brew the second and third cups, while the Keurig K50 takes between 1.5 to 2 minutes. Although there is a slight difference in brewing time, it is not significant.
In terms of design, both machines are simple and straightforward, with no LCD screens and only a few buttons. And when it comes to temperature, both machines are capable of brewing coffee at temperatures of up to 89°C, ensuring that your coffee is hot and delicious every time.
Taste And Quality
When it comes to taste, it can be difficult to discern a significant difference between the Keurig K50 and K55 models. This is likely because both machines use K-cups and the brewing method is essentially the same.
However, after conducting several trials and tests, I found that the Keurig K55 brews a slightly stronger cup of coffee compared to the K50. Additionally, both machines are compatible with K-cups and cheaper unofficial K-cups, providing a wide range of options to choose from.
Maintenance
The cleaning process for both the Keurig K50 and K55 models is essentially the same. Both machines come with a Keurig user guide, which outlines the cleaning process step by step. In fact, if it weren’t for the names of the machines written on the cover, it would be difficult to tell the two user guides apart.
Overall, cleaning these machines is quite simple and straightforward. Both machines require regular cleaning, and the process is the same for both. However, the Keurig K55 has an auto-descaling feature, which the K50 does not have.
While descaling can be done manually, the auto-descaling feature on the K55 makes the process more convenient and hassle-free. But, with or without the auto-descaling feature, descaling is not difficult and can be done easily, much like brewing coffee.
Aesthetics
Although aesthetics may not be the most important factor when it comes to choosing between the Keurig K50 and K55 models, many people are still curious about their appearance.
Both models have the same dimensions, measuring 9.8 x 13 x 13.3 inches in length, width, and height, which is a standard size suitable for most medium-sized countertops.
They both come in two different colors: matte black and red. However, the red option may not be as attractive due to the lower quality materials used, which can make it appear cheap. Nonetheless, given the price range of these machines, it’s understandable that there may be some limitations in terms of design and materials.
Both machines have button controls rather than LCD screens, but the buttons are easy to use and don’t feel cheap or stingy. Overall, the matte black option of the Keurig K50 and K55 looks quite stylish on its own.
What users saying about Keurig k classic K55 And K50
Users seem to love these coffee machines, as evidenced by their high ratings on Amazon. Both the Keurig K50 and K55 models are single-serve coffee machines that are easy to use. The pod system saves time and eliminates the hassle of dealing with coffee beans, while also minimizing waste.
These machines are widely popular for home use, but they may not be the best choice if you require more than 2 or 3 cups of coffee per day. However, for those who do not need more than that, both machines – especially the K55 – provide good value, with top-notch features and durable materials.
One potential issue that users have reported is receiving a broken or previously used product, so it’s important to be cautious when purchasing these machines.
FAQ about Keurig K50 & K55 coffee maker
Do I have to buy pods each time?
Does K55 make iced coffee?
Is it suitable for a small countertop?
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Final Analysis
To differentiate between two coffee machines, taste, and performance are the most important things. But, with K50 and K55, there is hardly any difference. But, it becomes noticeable with maintenance and aesthetics. As the K55 is made of better materials and lasts longer.
As for the price, K50 is a couple of dollars cheaper than K55. So, if you ask me which one to choose, without a doubt I’ll still recommend you the Keurig K55. Trust me, you won’t ever regret spending those extra dollars.