The Keurig K-Elite and K-Select are two of the best “old-school” Keurig branded coffee makers still sold in the market today. They were ahead of their times in build quality and feature sets and although the Elite seems like it’s the better unit of the two it’s not the one I recommend.
As surprising as it may seem if you are thinking about getting one of these two units I usually advise my readers and viewers over on the YouTube channel to opt for the Select over the Elite because it’s such a better value. It offers all the features you need and has a lower cost while omitting the features most people don’t need or care about.
The K-Elite offers an extra 4-oz cup size and includes a digital display that doesn’t present a lot of helpful information. The K-Select can do all of the features the K-Elite does and for a lower price making it a much better value. Both offer high altitude, strong, and iced coffee settings, both have big enough reservoirs, and both use the same single needle style and trim.
If you do want the smaller cup size option then that is only available on the K-Elite or the K-Supreme Plus & SMART…and if you are interested in the Strong button or strength settings that is also available on a bunch of Keurig’s made these days.
The K-Elite is probably the fanciest Keurig that uses an internal water tank but those tanks are loud and they typically brew coffee too fast anyway. I would recommend most people buy the slightly more expensive K-Supreme Plus over the Elite or save a little money by opting for the mid-range K-Select which I’ve got ranked fairly high on my best Keurig coffee maker page under the “value” section.
Make sure to see this page where I compare the K-Elite to the K-Supreme if you are unfamiliar with that device or the following page that compares the K-Select to the cheaper K-Classic machine which I actually rarely recommend.
For those on the fence, here is a comparison video of the Select and the Elite that I put together not that long ago. Give it a watch:
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Keurig K-Elite vs K-Select: What’s the Difference You Ask?
Keurig is one of the more common household names in single-serve coffee. It’s been around for decades, with the introduction of the K-Cup in the late 90s making the Keurig the big hit it is today.
Bringing a Keurig into the home not only promises delicious coffee with each brew, but offers convenience that other coffee makers can’t match.
If you’re looking to bring a Keurig into your home, you may have noticed how many different varieties are out there. Choosing which machine fits your needs requires careful consideration of your lifestyle and needs.
Both the K-Elite and the K-Select offer convenience and versatility with coffee-making. They are very similar in appearance and style, and would both mix well with other coffee equipment in the kitchen.
There are a few features that set the two machines apart. If you’ve already decided on a Keurig over a different brewing method, you’ll want to take a close look at the features provided in each machine before settling on what’s right for you.
Both machines provide a convenient, easy brew, but the K-Elite offers a few extra features that might be useful depending on how you intend to use your machine. It’s important to look over what each machine can and cannot do so you don’t end up paying for features that aren’t necessary, or buying a machine that does not meet all of your needs.
We will be comparing the features of the Keurig K-Elite and the K-Select in this article, to help clarify any uncertainties you may have between the two. Once you have a better understanding of what each machine can do, making the decision on what you purchase should be a breeze.
Let’s begin by taking a look at the main features of the K-Elite.
Main Features of the Keurig K-Elite
The K-Elite offers cup sizes 4, 6, 8, 10 and 12 ounces, which are the most common cup sizes for coffee. It also has a simple strong brew button, which allows you to increase the strength and bold flavor of your drink with the push of a button.
The K-Elite offers a brew over ice setting as well, which allows you to create the perfect iced drink without watering it down too much. The K-Elite can also just brew hot water for the purpose of oatmeal, instant soups, or other hot drinks. This comes in handy when you just want some tea or need to quickly bring life to your instant lunch.
The water reservoir can hold up to 75 ounces of water, which will allow you to brew eight cups before having to refill. When it’s ready to be refilled, it has an easily-removable unit. This can save a lot of time from your morning routine.
The removable drip tray means you can put travel mugs under the machine and brew your coffee directly into them. This saves a lot of precious time in a busy morning, and is a great convenient touch.
The clock display on the K-Elite is programmable. This means you can adjust the settings to have the machine turn on or off at a certain time. This feature comes in handy for those who are often on the go.
Main Features of the Keurig K-Select
This machine has a range of brew sizes, much like the K-Elite. The K-Select brews 6, 8, 10 and 12 ounces, just cutting out the 4-ounce option.
The water reservoir is 52 ounces on this machine, allowing for five cups to be brewed before having to refill the chamber. The brew will be complete in under a minute, just like you’d expect from a Keurig.
The K-Select also includes a stronger brew setting, which allows you to easily get a stronger cup at the touch of a button.
This machine also runs quieter than other similar models, which can be a useful feature for a shared household where some people wake up earlier than others.
The K-Select is not programmable, and cannot be set to turn on or off at a certain time. It does have an automatic shut off function though, and that is a good energy-efficient aspect.
Main Differences Between the K-Elite and K-Select
The two machines are similar in a lot of ways, something you’d come to expect from two varieties of the same brand. Their differences are small, but certain features can make a big impact on your daily routine.
The first thing that sets the two apart is the iced drink function. Making an iced drink is not too complicated of a process, but if you’ve ever tried to make one last minute on your way out the door, you’ve probably ended up with a watered down, lukewarm beverage once or twice.
The K-Elite’s iced setting eliminates this issue, allowing you to brew a perfectly iced drink each time. No more watered down, melted ice cubes.
Of course, you can always ice down a drink later. But it takes a bit of time to allow the coffee to cool off to avoid watering down the drink. If you’re a big fan of iced coffee, this feature would be the way to go.
The K-Elite also offers one more cup size than the K-Select. The four-ounce option may not be a big deal to a lot of people who prefer a big cup of coffee in the morning. However, there are many people who prefer a small, concentrated amount, and starting at eight ounces might not be practical.
Both machines allow you to choose a stronger brew. The K-Elite also has a temperature control, giving you more say over your brew.
The K-Elite can be programmed to turn on and off at a specific time. This is a great function for people who are forgetful or moving fast throughout the day. The K-Select can’t be programmed in that way, but it still can be set to shut off at a certain time which is great for energy-efficiency and can ease the minds of any forgetful coffee makers.
Conclusion
Whether the K-Select or the K-Elite is the right Keurig for your lifestyle all comes down to your personal preference.
The two machines are very similar in design and function. Either the K-Select or the K-Elite would provide easy access to delicious coffee on the daily. With each of these machines, you’ll never have to worry about grinding beans, having filters on hand, or measuring out the perfect ratio.
Keurigs have exploded in popularity, and rightfully so with the convenient features they offer. There are many varieties, so when it comes down to narrowing between two great options, it can be difficult.
The K-Elite can offer more than the K-Select ever can. It offers an extra cup size for brewing, an iced coffee function, and a programmable automatic on/off setting. These features might not be necessary for everyone, so consider your needs before making the decision.
For me, choosing the K-Elite was an easy choice. I was sold by the iced drink setting, as I prefer my coffee to be iced in most circumstances. I generally try to make coffee at home to save time and money, but I find myself opting to pay a few extra bucks on the days I want a good cup of iced coffee.
The reason I buy iced coffee rather than try to make it at home is because I tend to underestimate the amount of time it will take for my coffee to cool off so I can add ice cubes without melting them and watering down the drink. This has led to a few disastrous situations, including exploding my favorite jar in the freezer while trying to cool off a cup of hot coffee.
The ability to set my coffee maker to an iced setting, to circumvent any possible mishaps with watered down or lukewarm coffee, is extremely useful. The iced setting works by brewing a smaller, more concentrated amount of coffee to account for the initial melt of the ice cubes, and to prevent that from creating a watered-down taste.
If you don’t drink have an interest in iced drinks, and don’t need to brew four ounces, the K-Select will probably suit all of the needs you may have from a coffee maker.
You can check the current pricing for the K-Elite here and the K-Select here. Generally speaking, the prices aren’t too far apart for the two machines. If you’re not on a tight budget, the K-Elite’s extra features might be worth a little more money in the case that you ever find yourself wanting an iced drink or an automatic turn on/shut off feature.
Whatever you end up choosing, your life will be made easier by the convenience of a Keurig machine. Coffee will be brewed quickly, and the taste will always be bold and rich.
Consider what you want most out of your machine as you decide between the K-Elite and the K-Select. Both are great choices.
Keurig K-Elite Vs K-Select: What’s the Difference You Ask?
Keurig is one of the most popular names when it comes to single-serve coffee machines. More and more people find these devices to be extremely useful tools in their home and even upgrade to the newest models as they are released.
If you’re new to shopping for Keurigs, or just don’t know what new machines may have come out then it can be tough to find the right option.
So, to help you out, I’m going to compare two of the most popular Keurig models that have hit the market in recent years, The Keurig K-Elite and the K-Select.
Both of these machines offer some really great benefits and compelling reasons to pick one over the other so let’s dive in! Let me explain what these coffee makers can do for you and your love of coffee in the morning.
FYI – This article is a small portion of my full guide to modern Keurig coffee makers. If you want to know my opinion on what Keurig is the best one made today then click this link.
First The Keurig K-Elite: What Makes It Special
Features
Using the Keurig K-Elite, you’ll be able to choose between several different drink sizes, ranging from 4 ounces to 12 ounces.
You’ll also have the option of selecting a stronger brew option or even an iced beverage, which isn’t something all machines offer!
In addition, there is an option for hot water which works great for tea bags and soups.
It also provides a large water reservoir, giving you a full 75 ounces so you won’t need to worry about refilling it too often.
For easy cleaning, you’ll also get a drip tray that easily removes so you can clean out the area under it.
While it may not be as high-tech as some other options, it’s a great choice for those who want simple buttons rather than touchscreen.
It’s also able to work quickly, brewing a single K-Cup in under 60 seconds.
Because it’s a single-serve coffee maker, you don’t need to worry about using a carafe.
Instead, just place a Keurig-friendly mug under the spout and wait for the coffee to brew.
With just the push of a few buttons, you’ll be able to have a delicious cup of coffee, hot chocolate or a variety of other beverages in no time at all.
Pros
- Contains a 75-ounce water reservoir.
- Offers the ability to control temperature.
- You’ll have the option to brew a stronger beverage.
- Provides an “iced beverage” option.
- Makes a variety of different drink sizes.
- Buttons are highly user-friendly.
Cons
- Iced brew may not be as cold as expected.
- Requires the use of K-Cups.
- There can be some issues with leakages.
Summary
One of the best aspects of this machine is the large water reservoir. You’re sure to be able to get multiple drinks before you need to refill it.
For those who enjoy iced coffee or other kinds of iced K-Cup beverages, the Elite is also a superb choice.
The buttons on this machine are also intuitive and easy to use.
It is important to keep in mind that the cold beverage option may not be as cold as you may want.
Some users can also find that the pump will begin running without any direction to, resulting in leakages.
Next: Why The Keurig K-Select Is Worth It
Features
If you’re looking for something a little bit smaller, the K-Select includes a 52-ounce reservoir.
This might mean refilling the machine more often, but it’s still quite a bit of water.
It’s also a more compact option, which is great for those who may not have a lot of kitchen space.
Like the K-Elite, the K-Select is also an option that uses easy buttons rather than a touchscreen.
So if you prefer buttons to the more high-tech options, this is a great option for you.
You’ll also be able to choose from 6-ounce, 8-ounce, 10-ounce or 12-ounce options.
Furthermore, the K-Select will also let you know when it needs to be cleaned out and De-scaled, which is great for those who might forget otherwise.
Choosing a stronger brew is also easy, with just the touch of a button.
Many also find the K-Select is one of the quieter options when compared to other models on the market.
You can choose from a few different colors, though you may have to consider purchasing a carafe separately if you want to make larger amounts.
Otherwise, it’s easy to get your brew right into your mug or travel mug with this Keurig model.
Pros
- Includes a 52-ounce water reservoir.
- Allows you to make a stronger brew when needed.
- Lets you make 4 different brewing sizes.
- Capable of brewing more quietly than other options.
- Offers a removable drip tray for easy cleaning.
- Simple, easy-to-use design.
Cons
- In some cases, there can be issues with water flowing into the mug before actual brewing has started.
- Some models can begin turning themselves off.
- Water reservoir is a bit smaller than some other models.
Summary
While the water reservoir on the K-Select is a little bit smaller than the K-Elite, it’s still able to provide quite a bit of water between refills.
You’ll also be able to choose between different sizes and make a stronger drink if you prefer bolder flavor.
It’s also important to note that this machine tends to run more quietly than others.
However, there can be some issues with water flowing before it’s requested.
Some units can also have an issue with turning themselves off unexpectedly.
If you experience these kinds of issues, make sure to put the warranty to good use!
The Difference Between The K-Elite and The K-Select: A Personal Comparison
Features
Both of these machines are relatively similar.
They both use K-Cups and K-Carafe pods, though you may need to purchase a carafe if you want to make a lot at once.
Otherwise, it’s a good idea to make sure you have mugs that fit Keurig machines handy.
Both also use simple buttons rather than a touchscreen, which might either be a benefit or downfall depending on your personal preferences.
They are both capable of holding quite a lot of water, though the K-Elite holds about 23 ounces more than the K-Select.
So it will be important to consider how much water reservoir space you need.
Both machines also allow you to select a stronger brew when you want something more intense.
However, the K-Elite allows you the ability to make iced drinks as well, which the K-Select doesn’t offer.
That doesn’t mean you won’t be able to ice down the drinks after, but the machine won’t do it for you.
You’ll also get a variety of drink sizes from both, so you’ll want to think about the sizes you’re most likely to use to make sure the machine you choose offers them.
The K-Select may also be slightly more compact than the K-Elite.
Price
Between these two machines, you’re likely to be able to find the K-Select at a lower price.
In some cases, used machines can be found in the $90 range, while new machines can be roughly 50% more.
Meanwhile, used K-Elite models are slightly more expensive depending on what’s available.
New, the K-Elite often goes for a pinch more than the K-Select but pricing can vary. Click here to see current pricing on Amazon.
You’ll also want to consider the cost of K-Cups, which can vary depending on the beverage and flavor.
In some cases you can get bulk K-Cup options at under $50 for 60 pods.
There are also samplers available in the $20 range for those who aren’t sure which brands of flavors they like yet.
Which Is The Best Coffee Maker For The Money: A Value Comparison
Both of these machines are quite similar, but there are a few differences that are worth keeping in mind.
If budget is your biggest concern and you don’t mind a few less bells and whistles, then the K-Select is a great option.
Meanwhile, if you’d prefer something with a larger water reservoir and the option to make iced drinks, the K-Elite is a fantastic choice.
It’s really going to depend on your personal preferences.
If you’re new to shopping for a Keurig, you may also want to consider a travel mug that works with the machine.
This is a great option if you need to take your drink on the go!
Otherwise, you can also take a look at some smaller Keurig options if you don’t have a lot of space.
There’s no doubt that you’ll find the perfect Keurig model to fit in just about any kitchen.