Keurig have an absolutely huge range of coffee makers, and as time goes on the manufacturers continue to add more features and models, meaning there is bound to be a model perfect for your needs.
Establishing which model is the difficult thing. Hopefully our analysis of the Keurig k55 vs k250 will be helpful.
The Keurig K55 is one of the older models in their range, but the fact that it has been such a high selling coffee maker previously makes it a good comparison for a lot of other models.
The K250 and K55 have some significant differences.
Differences between the Keurig K55 and K250
| Model | K55 | K250 |
|---|---|---|
| Size | 9.8 x 13.0 x 13.3 in | 9 x 15 x 13.7 in |
| Type of Compatible Pods | K-Cup | K-Cup, K-Mug or Carafe, 2.0 “My K-Cup” |
| Per Brew | 4, 8, 109 oz. | 4-30 Oz (10 sizes) |
| Water Held | 48 oz reservoir | 40 oz reservoir |
| Automatic turn off | No | No |
| Water Filter Included | No | Yes |
| Controls | Button Controls | LCD Touch Screen to control drink options, choose between K-Cup, K-Mug and carafe. Signals when filter needs changing and also when water needs to be refilled. |
| Price | Low/ Mid-Range Check Price | Mid-Range Check Price |
The K250 has grown hugely in popularity and has a lot of features that the K55 can’t compete with. The K55 comes from generation 1.0 of Keurig machines whereas The K250 comes from generation 2.0. It can brew much more in terms of sizes and gives a huge amount more options in order to brew to your own preference.
One of the best features of the K250 is the strength control which allows you to choose how strong you want your coffee.
The option to brew larger amounts via K-Carafe pods is another big plus point for the K250, an incredible 10 different brew sizes means you can do everything from a small 6 Oz coffee to kick start your morning to a big 30 Oz brew after dinner when you are entertaining company.
This model also has an LCD control, which is a big upgrade on the previous button controls seen in 1.0 Keurigs.
The interface is far less clunky than some of the earlier models and is reminiscent of smartphone and app controls we tend to use every day.
While not right at the top end of the range, the K250 offers a huge amount of features suitable for most homes and offices.
It is easy to use and has a lot of versatility, making it a really popular choice as the newer generation 2.0 models start to take over. If you are curious about the older versions of both models you can have a look at our comparison of the k50 and the k200 Keurig models.
Keurig K55 Reviews
The K55 is one of the older models out there now, but that doesn’t mean it doesn’t brew a great cup of coffee, and it is still in circulation.
There is one real benefit to using a 1.0 Keurig as opposed to a newer, 2.0, and that is the fact that you can use off-brand or ‘compatible’ pods, not manufactured by Keurig.
This means a wider choice and can even save you money. The 2.0 technology has prevented these being used.
Though it doesn’t have anywhere near as many features as the K250, and is a little restrictive with its button controls, it is certainly an upgrade on models such as the K10 and K15, which are smaller models with no water reservoir.
If you are looking for something right at the top of the market, the K55 may be found a little lacking.
It doesn’t have a water filter included with the product but there are compatible filters which will fit perfectly and aren’t a hassle to install at all, however this is one extra expense. If you are curious about how the k55 stands up against the new kselect models have a look at our comparisons here.
PROS
- Compatible with pods not made by Keurig including reusable filters and ‘off-brand’.
- Quiet brew technology.
- Easy to use button control.
CONS
- No water filter included (though compatible filters can be purchased).
- No strength control or heat control as offered on some Keurigs.
- No LCD display.
- Can only brew up to 10 Oz at a time.
Keurig K250 Reviews
The K250 is a significant upgrade in terms of the technology it uses and the accessories, as well as the features offered.
The K250 comes with charcoal filters which are always a good idea for improving the quality of the water and increasing the longevity of your machine.
This is something also accounted for in the descaling solution which ships with the K250.
It comes with a sample set of Keurig coffees to allow you to try out the different offerings from the brand.
Though you can only use Keurig pods in this coffee machine as it is a 2.0 model, it does have compatibility with Keurig’s own ‘my K-Cup’, this is a reusable cup that allows you to put your own ground coffee in and brew through the machine.
One of the main ways this is set apart from the K55 and some of the other 1.0 machines is the fact that it has such comprehensive controls.
The interface of the LCD screen is easy to use and lets you control the size of the brew as well as strength.
Another huge difference is the capacity to make larger brews, and compatibility with K-Mug and K-Carafes which can make up to 30 Oz in one go.
Whereas the K55 only allows you to choose between three sizes, the K250 has an incredible 10 different brew sizes.
PROS
- Can make brews up to 30 Oz.
- Compatible with K-Cups, K-Mugs and K-Carafe Pods.
- Comes with strength control.
- Comes with charcoal filters.
- LCD control panel plus indicators when levels of water are low.
- Ships with descaling kit.
CONS
- Not as large a reservoir as the K55 at 40 Oz.
- More expensive than the K55.
- Does not allow the use of compatible pods which worked with 1.0 models.
Conclusion
Due to the very large range on offer, it is never as simple as saying one coffee machine is better than another, as different options suit different needs.
Both of these are great coffee machines in their own right, but for the extra features and LCD controls, as well as the ability to batch brew, the K250 is probably the best option between the two.
It is certainly the more advanced model of these two.
