Keurig Mini Vs. Mini Plus: A Coffee Lover’s Journey To The Perfect Brew

I’m a coffee enthusiast who’s spent countless mornings tinkering with single-serve machines, chasing that perfect cup. When it came to choosing between the Keurig K-Mini and K-Mini Plus, I found myself weighing their compact designs against my need for convenience and flavor.

In this article, I’ll share my hands-on experience, breaking down the pros, cons, and key features of both machines in a conversational, real-user style.

You’ll get a clear comparison to help decide which brewer fits your life, plus answers to common questions about these countertop companions.

A Brief Comparison Table

FeatureKeurig K-MiniKeurig K-Mini Plus
Brew Sizes6-12 oz (adjustable)6-12 oz (adjustable)
Water Reservoir12 oz, fixed12 oz, removable
Strong Brew OptionNoYes
Pod StorageNoYes, holds up to 9 K-Cups
Drip TrayRemovableRemovable with chrome accent
Color OptionsBlack, Studio Gray, Dusty Rose, Evergreen, Oasis, Poppy RedBlack, Studio Gray, Cardinal Red, Evening Teal, Cool Aqua, Midnight Navy
Brew Speed~2 minutes~1.5 minutes
Noise LevelStandardQuieter (Quiet Brew Technology)
Weight4.6 lbs4.6 lbs
Dimensions4.5” W x 11.3” D x 12.1” H4.5” W x 11.3” D x 12.1” H
Price (Approx.)$80-$100$100-$120
Auto-OffYes, after 90 secondsYes, after 90 seconds
Reusable FilterCompatible with My K-CupCompatible with My K-Cup

My Coffee Journey With Keurig’s Mini Machines

As someone who’s spent years perfecting my morning coffee ritual, I’ve always appreciated the simplicity of Keurig machines. They’re like the reliable friend who shows up with a decent cup of coffee without any fuss.

The Keurig K-Mini and K-Mini Plus caught my eye because of their sleek, space-saving designs, perfect for my cozy apartment kitchen. But choosing between them wasn’t straightforward. Both promise convenience, but their differences could make or break your daily brew.

Let me walk you through my experience with these machines, focusing on their key features, pros, and cons, to help you pick the right one.

Design and Build Quality

  • Keurig K-Mini: Simplicity in a Small Package
Keurig K-Mini Coffee Maker

The Keurig K-Mini is like that no-frills, dependable car you had in college—it gets the job done without much flair.

At just 4.5 inches wide, it’s one of the slimmest coffee makers I’ve ever owned, fitting perfectly on my crowded countertop.

Its dimensions (4.5” W x 11.3” D x 12.1” H) and light 4.6-pound weight make it a breeze to move around, whether I’m rearranging the kitchen or taking it on a weekend trip.

The build is mostly plastic, which keeps it lightweight but doesn’t scream premium. Still, it feels sturdy enough for daily use.

The fixed water reservoir holds 12 ounces, enough for a single cup, and the removable drip tray lets me use a 7-inch travel mug when I’m on the go.

It’s available in six vibrant colors—Black, Studio Gray, Dusty Rose, Evergreen, Oasis, and Poppy Red—which add a fun pop to my kitchen. The cord storage at the back keeps things tidy, a small but appreciated touch.

  • Keurig K-Mini Plus: A Touch of Class

The K-Mini Plus feels like the K-Mini’s stylish sibling. It shares the same compact dimensions and weight, but Keurig added some flair with chrome accents on the drip tray, giving it a slightly more polished look.

The color options—Black, Studio Gray, Cardinal Red, Evening Teal, Cool Aqua, and Midnight Navy—are a bit more sophisticated, with Evening Teal being my personal favorite for its modern vibe.

The big upgrade here is the removable water reservoir, also 12 ounces, which makes refilling and cleaning a lot easier. There’s also a pod storage compartment that holds up to nine K-Cups, a lifesaver for keeping my favorite blends organized.

The K-Mini Plus feels just a tad sturdier, and the Quiet Brew Technology makes it noticeably less noisy, which I appreciate during early mornings when my roommate’s still asleep.

Brewing Performance Comparison

  • Keurig K-Mini: Straightforward Brewing
Keurig K Mini Plus

The K-Mini is all about simplicity.

Pop in a K-Cup, add water to the reservoir (anywhere from 6 to 12 ounces), press the single brew button, and you’re sipping coffee in about two minutes.

It’s compatible with all K-Cup pods—coffee, tea, hot cocoa, you name it—and the My K-Cup reusable filter lets me use my own grounds for a custom blend.

The brew quality is consistent, delivering a solid cup that’s perfect for my busy mornings.

However, there’s no strength control, so the coffee’s intensity depends entirely on the pod or the amount of water you use. I found that using less water (around 6-8 ounces) gives a stronger brew, but it’s a bit of trial and error.

The fixed reservoir means I have to pour water carefully to avoid spills, which can be a minor annoyance when I’m half-awake.

  • Keurig K-Mini Plus: Bold and Customizable

The K-Mini Plus steps up the game with its Strong Brew button, a feature I quickly grew to love. It slows the water flow for a richer, more robust coffee, perfect for those days when I need an extra kick.

The brewing process is slightly faster—about 1.5 minutes—and the Quiet Brew Technology keeps the noise down, making it feel less intrusive.

Like the K-Mini, it brews 6-12 ounces and works with all K-Cups and the My K-Cup reusable filter. The removable reservoir makes filling a breeze, and I can rinse it out easily to keep the water clean.

One thing I noticed is that the Plus seems to extract flavors a bit better, especially with darker roasts, thanks to the strength control. It’s a small but noticeable difference for a coffee nerd like me.

Pros and Cons of Keurig Mini And Mini Plus

Keurig K-Mini Pros

  • Compact Size: At 4.5 inches wide, it’s perfect for small kitchens, dorms, or RVs.
  • Affordable: Typically priced between $80-$100, it’s one of Keurig’s most budget-friendly options.
  • Simple Operation: One-button brewing makes it foolproof, even before my first cup.
  • Color Variety: Six fun colors let me match my kitchen’s vibe.
  • Travel Mug Friendly: The removable drip tray accommodates 7-inch mugs for on-the-go brewing.
  • Cord Storage: Keeps my counter neat and makes it easy to pack for travel.

Keurig K-Mini Cons

  • Fixed Reservoir: Refilling is trickier, and cleaning requires more effort.
  • No Strength Control: I have to adjust water volume manually for stronger coffee.
  • Basic Build: All-plastic construction feels less premium than other Keurigs.
  • Single-Serve Only: The 12-ounce reservoir means refilling for every cup.
  • Slower Brewing: Takes about two minutes, which isn’t bad but not lightning-fast.
  • Limited Features: Lacks advanced options like temperature control or programmable settings.

Keurig K-Mini Plus Pros

  • Removable Reservoir: Makes refilling and cleaning a lot easier.
  • Strong Brew Option: Perfect for bolder coffee without extra effort.
  • Pod Storage: Holds nine K-Cups, reducing clutter and keeping pods handy.
  • Quieter Operation: Quiet Brew Technology is a blessing for early mornings.
  • Sleek Design: Chrome accents and trendy colors add a touch of style.
  • Faster Brewing: About 1.5 minutes per cup, a slight edge over the K-Mini.

Keurig K-Mini Plus Cons

  • Higher Price: Costs $20-$40 more than the K-Mini, around $100-$120.
  • Single-Serve Only: Like the K-Mini, it requires refilling the reservoir for each brew.
  • Limited Brew Sizes: Still capped at 6-12 ounces, not ideal for larger servings.
  • No Temperature Control: You can’t fine-tune water temperature for different drinks.
  • Plastic Dominance: While sturdier, it’s still mostly plastic, not high-end.

My Experience With Keurig Mini And Mini Plus

  • My Mornings With The K-Mini
Keurig K-Mini Mate Coffee Maker

I started with the K-Mini because it was affordable and fit my tiny kitchen.

The setup was a breeze—plug it in, fill the reservoir, pop in a K-Cup, and hit the button.

My first cup was a medium roast, and it tasted just as good as my local café’s drip coffee.

I loved the Dusty Rose color; it added a cheerful vibe to my mornings.

But I quickly noticed the fixed reservoir’s downside.

Pouring water into that small opening without spilling took some practice, especially when I was groggy.

Cleaning it was a bit of a chore, too, since I had to wipe it down carefully to avoid water pooling around the base.

The lack of a strong brew option meant I had to experiment with water volumes to get the bold flavor I sometimes craved, which wasn’t a dealbreaker but felt like extra work.

  • Upgrading To The K-Mini Plus

Curious about the upgrades, I borrowed a friend’s K-Mini Plus in Evening Teal. The difference was immediate. The removable reservoir was a game-changer—I could fill it directly under the faucet and rinse it out in seconds.

The Strong Brew button became my go-to for dark roasts, delivering a richer cup without fiddling with water amounts. The pod storage was surprisingly handy; I kept my favorite K-Cups right in the machine, saving drawer space.

The quieter brewing was a pleasant surprise. My K-Mini wasn’t loud, but the Plus was nearly silent, which made my early mornings feel more peaceful. The chrome accents gave it a sleeker look, and it felt just a bit more solid.

The only downside? The price. I paid about $30 more for the Plus, and I had to decide if those features were worth it.

Which One’s Worth It?

Keurig K-Mini Plus Coffee Maker

From an analytical standpoint, the choice between the K-Mini and K-Mini Plus boils down to your priorities.

If you’re on a tight budget and don’t mind a basic, reliable machine, the K-Mini delivers.

Its simplicity and lower price make it ideal for casual coffee drinkers or those with minimal counter space.

The fixed reservoir and lack of strength control are minor inconveniences if you’re not picky about your brew.

The K-Mini Plus, however, offers tangible upgrades that justify the extra cost for many users. The removable reservoir saves time and hassle, especially if you brew multiple cups a day.

The Strong Brew option is a must for anyone who loves bold coffee, and the pod storage adds convenience for small households. The quieter operation and sleeker design are nice bonuses, making it feel like a premium product without breaking the bank.

I also considered the long-term value. Both machines are durable, with Keurig’s solid reputation and a one-year warranty.

But the K-Mini Plus’s easier maintenance (thanks to the removable reservoir) could extend its lifespan by reducing wear from improper cleaning. The pod storage also means fewer loose pods, which keeps my kitchen organized—a small but real quality-of-life improvement.

If you’re like me and value efficiency and flavor customization, the K-Mini Plus feels like the better investment. But if you’re a minimalist who just wants a quick, no-fuss cup, the K-Mini won’t let you down. It’s about balancing convenience with cost.

Comparing To Other Keurigs

To put these machines in context, I compared them to another compact Keurig, the K-Slim. The K-Slim has a larger 46-ounce reservoir, so you don’t need to refill it for every cup, and it uses MultiStream Technology for better extraction.

However, it’s wider (about 5 inches) and lacks the Strong Brew option, which I found less appealing for my bold coffee cravings. The K-Mini series wins for portability and space-saving, but the K-Slim might suit those brewing for multiple people.

Maintenance and Support

Both machines are low-maintenance, but the K-Mini Plus has an edge. The removable reservoir and drip tray make cleaning straightforward—just rinse them under the sink or pop them in the dishwasher. The K-Mini’s fixed reservoir requires more careful wiping, which can be tedious.

Both need regular descaling (every 3-6 months, depending on water hardness) and occasional needle cleaning with a paperclip to prevent clogs.

Keurig’s customer support is a highlight. Both models come with a one-year warranty, and I’ve heard stories of their responsive team quickly resolving issues. My friend once got a replacement K-Mini within a week after a brewing issue, which gave me confidence in the brand.

Who Should Buy Which?

  • Keurig K-Mini

The K-Mini is for you if you’re a budget-conscious coffee drinker who values simplicity. It’s perfect for students, solo dwellers, or anyone with a tiny kitchen. If you don’t need strong coffee or fancy features, this machine’s affordability and compact size make it a solid choice.

I’d recommend it for casual users who brew one or two cups a day and don’t mind refilling the reservoir each time.

  • Keurig K-Mini Plus

The K-Mini Plus is for coffee lovers who want more control and convenience. If you enjoy experimenting with brew strength or hate cleaning fixed reservoirs, the Plus is worth the extra $20-$40.

It’s ideal for small households, frequent travelers, or anyone who appreciates a quieter, more stylish machine. I found it especially great for dark roast fans and those who value a clutter-free setup with pod storage.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the difference between Keurig Mini and Keurig Mini Plus?

The K-Mini Plus has a removable water reservoir, a Strong Brew option, pod storage for nine K-Cups, and quieter operation. The K-Mini is simpler, with a fixed reservoir and no strength control.

Is the Keurig Mini Plus worth it?

Yes, if you value a removable reservoir, strong brew option, and pod storage. For basic brewing, the K-Mini is cheaper and sufficient.

What is the difference between the Keurig and the Keurig Plus?

“Keurig” typically refers to the brand, while the K-Mini Plus is an upgraded model with features like a removable reservoir and Strong Brew button, unlike the basic K-Mini.

Does the Keurig Mini Plus have a filter?

Yes, it’s compatible with the My K-Cup reusable filter for custom grounds, but it doesn’t include a built-in water filter.

Conclusion: Your Perfect Brew Awaits

After testing both the Keurig K-Mini and K-Mini Plus, I’ve come to appreciate their strengths. The K-Mini is a budget-friendly, no-nonsense machine that delivers reliable coffee for small spaces.

The K-Mini Plus, with its removable reservoir, Strong Brew option, and pod storage, feels like a small luxury for a slightly higher price. Your choice depends on what you value—simplicity or customization. If you’re after an affordable, compact brewer, the K-Mini is enough.

But if you want a bolder, more convenient experience like I do, the Plus is worth the splurge. So, what’s your coffee style? Pick the one that fits, and enjoy your next cup!

Ralph Wade

Hey...Ralph is here! So, did you find this article useful? If so, please leave a comment and let me know. If not, please tell me how I can improve this article.Your feedback is always appreciated. Take love :)

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

Recent Posts