Navigating the huge range of coffee makers which Keurig offers can be a nightmare, especially if you are new to it. Two commonly confused models are the Keurig K10 vs K15, with many people searching to see what differences, if any, exist between the models.
It is hard to see any differences from the naked eye, both models look identical, both are in the K 1.0 Classic series.
This is one of the more simple recommendations out there due to the fact that the K10 has been discontinued.
Differences between the Keurig K10 and K15
| Model | K10 | K15 |
|---|---|---|
| Size | 6.9 x 10.7 x 10.8 in | 6.9 x 10.7 x 10.8 in |
| Type of Compatible Pods | K-Cup, Reusable K-Cup | K-Cup, Reusable K-Cup |
| Accessories Included | Carafe and My K-Cup | None |
| Per Brew | 6, 8, 10 oz | 6, 8, 10 oz |
| Water Held | No water reservoir | No water reservoir |
| Automatic turn off | ||
| Controls | Simple one-button controls for brewing. LED indication for water levels. | Exactly the same control panel as the K15. |
| Price | Discounted | Check Price |
So are there any differences other than one being newer? The answer is both yes and no. Some small bugs and defects were worked out in the K15, but realistically this is simply a newer version of the K10.
The K15 is an upgraded and modernized coffee maker with superior technology, even though its features are slightly more modest due to its small size, and the fact it is designed to be a mini, single-serve coffee maker.
If you are in the market for a home or office option to just make one cup of coffee at a time, and don’t want to make any of the larger servings or batches of coffee sometimes available with larger K-Cups of the K-Carafe.
The K15 is a simple, but effective option, perfect for a home office or dorm room, or if you’re the only coffee drinker around. As mini coffee makers go, you’ll struggle to find many better options.
Keurig K10 Reviews
The first thing to say about this model is that it is discontinued. That isn’t to say you can’t still buy it and there are still models available, but the manufacturer isn’t making them anymore.
The K10 has been discontinued
There were some issues with the K10 when first released and some users reported that it would drip or even leak from certain areas.
This seemed to clear up as more batches were manufactured and it is unlikely this problem will arise unless you are buying a second hand K10.
One of the big plus points is that you can use unofficial pods and reusable K-Cups with these products as they are from the K 1.0 Classic series.
The 2.0 models available seem to have really clamped down on this and are trying to avoid other manufacturers being able to produce the cups, but the K10 will allow you to use just about any compatible version.
Please note that this model has been discontinued. You might be interested in our k200 and k250 comparisons.
PROS
- Brews in under 2 minutes.
- Comes with a variety 6-pack of K-Cups (this isn’t true of the K15)
- Compact and lightweight design great for transporting.
- Simple button controls.
- Removable drip tray makes it easy to clean.
CONS
- No water reservoir so it needs to be refilled for every cup you make.
- Not compatible with water filters.
- No strength control to affect the flavor.
- Discontinued and hard to get your hands on.
All in all, if you want to buy a coffee machine that is great for single servings, and doesn’t take up a lot of space, the K10 is a great choice.
On top of that, the option to use alternative suppliers for K-Cups can save you money and open up a world of coffee choices.
Keurig K15 Reviews
The K15 is effectively the newer version. Being honest, there are no huge upgrades or new features, just small tweaks.
The coffee takes just 90 seconds to brew, and just like the K10 the small and compact design make it a great choice for guest houses, keeping at your desk or just for a household with only one coffee drinker!
PROS
- Brews in just 90 seconds.
- Comes with a recipe booklet.
- Compact and lightweight design great for transporting.
- Off-Brand and other compatible K-Cups can be used.
- Simple button controls.
- Removable drip tray makes it easy to clean.
CONS
- Doesn’t come with K-Cups (the K10 did)
- Not compatible with water filters.
- No strength control to affect the flavor.
The fact that there is no filter in this, nor its sibling the K10 means that it is recommended to use already filtered water.
Calcium buildups and limescale can occur, but there are methods and products out there to help you to descale your Keurig, something the brand recommend doing every 3-6 months depending on how much use your coffee machine gets.
The price point is lower than many of the other products in the range, this is mainly because it is a mini design and has been made with simplicity.
The coffee aficionados out there may want more options in terms of size, but the fact that you don’t have to use Keurig endorsed K-Cups means there are even more options, some of which can save you money.
Conclusion
Both the K10 and the K15 work brilliantly with reusable cups, and not just Keurig’s own “My K-Cup”. The mini design with no reservoir is a great choice if you’re the kind of coffee drinker who just grabs a single cup in the morning before work.
It is also better for the environment, reducing plastic waste considerably.
In terms of the K10 vs K15 debate, there isn’t much competition. Not only is the K15 newer, it is quickly becoming the only one of the two models you can choose due to the K10 being discontinued.
The K15 is effectively just the next step in the evolution in Keurig’s mini coffee maker range, and these two models aren’t different enough to be in competition with each other.
If you need a larger option with a water reservoir, there are plenty of others such as the K200 and K250, but that is not what the K10 and K15 are designed to be.
For compact single coffees, either one will leave you with great coffee just the press of a button away.
