Keurig 1.0 vs 2.0 – Which model is the best?

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Over the years, Keurig has consistently won the hearts of coffee lovers and enthusiasts all over the world.  This is primarily because the brand prides itself in easy-to-use, superior quality and compact coffee makers with excellent performance. Like other top coffee brands in the market presently, Keurig continues to upgrade its products to meet the evolving trends in the coffee industry.

One of the ways that the company has advanced its product line is through the introduction of the Keurig 2.0– which is an upgrade of the classic Keurig 1.0. This doesn’t mean in any way that the Keurig 1.0 is a faulty or defective appliance. On the contrary, it is a powerful and expressly reliable coffee maker with an impressive and reliable performance. So, how do these models differ from each other?

See also:

  1. Nespresso Vertuo vs Original Review – Which Coffee Maker Comes Out On Top?

Quick Summary

BEST OVERALL 1.0
Keurig K-Classic Coffee Maker, Single Serve K-Cup Pod Coffee Brewer
BEST OVERALL KEURIG 2.0
Keurig K-Elite Coffee Maker, Single Serve K-Cup Pod Coffee Brewer
Keurig K-Classic Coffee Maker K-Cup Pod, Single Serve, Programmable, 6 to 10 oz. Brew Sizes, Black
Keurig K-Elite Single-Serve K-Cup Pod Coffee Maker, Brushed Slate, 12 oz. Brew Size
$139.99
$129.99
Amazon Prime
Amazon Prime
BEST OVERALL 1.0
Keurig K-Classic Coffee Maker, Single Serve K-Cup Pod Coffee Brewer
Keurig K-Classic Coffee Maker K-Cup Pod, Single Serve, Programmable, 6 to 10 oz. Brew Sizes, Black
$139.99
Amazon Prime
BEST OVERALL KEURIG 2.0
Keurig K-Elite Coffee Maker, Single Serve K-Cup Pod Coffee Brewer
Keurig K-Elite Single-Serve K-Cup Pod Coffee Maker, Brushed Slate, 12 oz. Brew Size
$129.99
Amazon Prime

Last update on 2024-04-19 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Keurig 1.0 vs 2.0- Which model is the best?

The design

The design difference between the Keurig classic vs 2.0 are apparent, even with a single glance at the two products. The Keurig 1.0 model features a classic and definitive look especially for models that do not feature a touch screen. The Keurig 2.0 model on the other hand sports a more luxurious and modern aesthetic look. This is a look that stands out from other coffee makers and appliances in the kitchen.

The water reservoirs

The Keurig 1.0 coffee makers feature a small water reservoir than the 2.0. Ideally, the classic 1.0 models are specially designed for small families and hence the biggest reservoir you are likely to find in a classic 1.0 models is 48 ounces.

For large families and households, the Keurig 2.0 coffee maker is a great choice as it comes with a 70/80 ounce water reservoir. As such, the reservoir in the 2.0 models is larger than that in the 1.0 models. There are some 2.0 models that come with 90 ounce water reservoirs, and hence allow you to get more than a dozen cups per refill.

The water reservoirs in both models are removable.

The pods

Both models use K cup pods when brewing coffee, and other beverages such as hot cocoa. The difference between Keurig 1.0 and 2.0 in terms of pod sizes is that the classic 1.0 models use a smaller size pod compared to the 2.0 models. As such, you cannot use the pods for the 2.0 model with the Keurig classic 1.0 model. As such, if you are considering using pods for 1.0 models on 2.0 models after upgrading to the new coffee maker, then this will not be possible.

What is amazing about the newer and modern K cups designed for use by the Keurig 2.0 model are compatible with the classic 1.0 models.  Keurig 2.0 models offer a greater brew size variety. Most 1.0 models offer only three brew sizes but 2.0 models have brewers that are compatible with up to ten or eleven sizes. As such, for large households, you can consider using the 30 ounce brew size due to its convenience.

Using non-Keurig coffee pods

One of the most common reasons why people love the Keurig 1.0 is its flexibility and compatibility with pods that come with other coffee maker brands. Consequently, this is convenient as Keurig pods are considerably pricier than the other types and brands in the market.

On the other hand, the Keurig 2.0 brewers are designed to only work with pods made by Keurig. This is mostly because of the IFD (radio frequency identification) technology in these coffee makers. The technology enables the coffee maker to identify whether the coffee pod inserted into the brewer are made Keurig or not.

This technology works by using a special scanner in your Keurig coffee maker that reads the barcode on each pod. If this barcode is compatible, then the coffee maker starts brewing automatically.

Refillable pods

Another feature that people love most about the classic Keurig 1.0 is its compatibility with refillable pods. This not only saves you money but it is also ideal for the environment.  Earlier Keurig 2.0 models were not compatible with the refillable pods. However, Keurig developed the K-cup reusable filter & pod, which were specially designed for the 2.0 model.

Control options

Most Keurig 1.0 coffee maker models feature basic interfaces that only feature several buttons without any fancy designs. Often, there are only types of buttons in these models: one power button, a brew start button, and a button for each brewing size. As such, the operation of the Classic 1.0 Keurig models is easy and straightforward.  There are a few Keurig 1.0 models that come with black and white models.

Most Keurig 2.0 models feature large colored LCD touchscreens that make navigation easy and convenient. Additionally, these touchscreens display prompts that guide you throughout the brewing process.

Brewing preferences

The Keurig 2.0 models offer more options in terms of brewing preferences. For example, these models feature strength controls that allow you to choose your preferred brew strength. On the other hand, the Keurig 1.0 models require you to use different size K cup pods to vary the brew strength.

What is more amazing about the 2.0 models is that they also feature temperature settings. This allows you to choose how you want your coffee flavor to be.

Indicators

The classic Keurig 1.0 coffee makers feature LED indicators. These indicators prompt you on when to add water or alert you when the brewing cycle is over. In the Keurig 2.0 models, prompts are displayed in the touchscreen.

Programmable features

Both the Keurig 1.0 and 2.0 models come with programmable features. These features vary from one model to the other. There are some classic models that feature auto shut off functions, and automatic switch on at a specific time.

The programmable features in the Keurig 2.0 boasts of additional programmability due to the RIFD technology. One unique functionality of this technology is reading the barcode on a K-pod for compatibility.

Pros and Cons

Keurig 1.0

Pros
  • Affordable than 2.0 models
  • Compatible with refillable pods
  • Compatible with other brands’ k-cup pods
  • Fast brewing rates
  • Easy to operate and handle
Cons
  • The water reservoir is small

Keurig 2.0

Pros
  • Features advanced and programmable features
  • Features strength controls
  • Come with large water reservoirs
  • Feature colored touchscreens
  • Compatibility with K-carafe pods
Cons
  • Models are expensive

Our top picks

#1. Keurig K-Classic K-50 Coffee Maker- Best Overall 1.0

Sale
Keurig K-Classic Coffee Maker K-Cup Pod, Single Serve, Programmable, 6 to 10 oz. Brew Sizes, Black
  • Note: 1)Too coarse a grind, too little coffee, or insufficiently tamping the grounds before brewing can all lead to inadequate pressure for a proper brew. 2)It is important to note that the amount of espresso extracted will vary depending on the grind size and amount and reprogramming may be needed when the size and amount are adjusted.Please refer to user guide or user manual or user guide (provided below in PDF) before first use
  • Brews multiple k-cup pod sizes: (6, 8, 10 ounce) – the most popular k-cup pod brew sizes. Use the 6 ounce brew size to achieve the strongest brew.
  • Large 48 ounce water reservoir: Allows you to brew 6 plus cups before having to refill, saving you time and simplifying your morning routine. The water reservoir is removable, making it easy to refill whenever you need to.
  • Descaling: An important part of cleaning your keurig brewer. This process helps to remove calcium deposits, or scale, that can build up inside a coffee maker over time.
  • Auto-off: An auto-off feature is easily programmed to turn off your coffee maker after it has been idle for 2 hours, helping to save energy.

Last update on 2024-04-19 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

This classic Keurig 1.0 Single Serve Coffee Maker is a perennial best-selling classic coffee maker by Keurig that brews a smooth, flavorful and delicious coffee beverages at all times.  The simple touch buttons in this coffee maker make the brewing process hassle-free and stress-free. Additionally, the coffee maker is compatible with multiple pod brew sizes that allow you to get the best cup for you.  The large 48 ounce water reservoir in the coffee maker allows you to brew up to 6+ cups at once.

Simple button controls

Operating and using this coffee maker is quite easy as it only requires you to input your preferences using the simple button controls in the appliance. When using this appliance, all you need to do is insert a coffee pod then choose your preferred cup brew size and press the appropriate button to brew a delicious and flavorful coffee cup in less than a minute.

The large water reservoir in the coffee maker has a capacity of 48 ounces and allows you to brew more than 6 cups before you refill the reservoir. This simplifies your morning routine thereby saving time that you can spend preparing yourself to work.  This water reservoir is removable and hence easy to refill and clean when need be. Overall, the coffee maker features a heavy-duty plastic construction that enhances the durability and reliability of the appliance.

Auto-off function

There is auto-off function in this coffee maker that is programmed to shut down the appliance automatically after it has remained idle for two hours. This, in turn, helps in saving energy. Ideally, this appliance has user-friendly features that allow you to enjoy a tasty and delicious cup of coffee thereby making it a daily use coffee maker.

This classic Keurig 1.0 coffee maker brews multiple K-cup coffee pod sizes. This allows you to choose from 6, 8, 10 ounce brew sizes depending on your caffeine needs. For the strongest brew, it is advisable that you use the 6-ounce brew size. This brewing flexibility allows you to choose the ideal strength of your coffee.

Pros
  • Features an auto-off function
  • Simple button controls
  • Easy to clean and descale
  • Large water reservoir
  • Brews multiple pod sizes
Cons
  • Brews only 1 cup at a time

#2. Keurig K-Elite Coffee Maker- Best Overall Keurig 2.0

Sale
Keurig K-Elite Single-Serve K-Cup Pod Coffee Maker, Brushed Slate, 12 oz. Brew Size
  • WHAT'S IN THE BOX: One water filter handle, and one filter to help ensure your beverages taste their absolute best.Filter type:Reusable.Temperature: Adjust the brew temperature between 187° and 192°..Temperature Control : Allows you to adjust the temperature from 187° – 192
  • BREWS MULTIPLE CUP SIZES: 4, 6, 8, 10, 12oz Enjoy the most popular cup sizes.
  • STRONG BREW BUTTON: Increases the strength and bold taste of your coffee’s flavor.
  • ICED SETTING: Brew hot over ice at the touch of a button for full-flavored, delicious iced coffee.
  • HOT WATER ON DEMAND BUTTON: Perfect for instant soups or oatmeal.

Last update on 2024-04-19 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

 This modern and luxurious Keurig K-Elite Coffee Maker is a unique coffee maker that blends programmable features and a premium finish to deliver the ultimate brewing experience and a modern design. This coffee maker comes with a host of advanced functions that include hot water on demand (for oatmeal and soups) and a large 75 oz. water reservoir. The coffee maker allows you to use your ground coffee.

Strong brew button

For coffee lovers and enthusiasts who like drinking strong and flavorful coffee beverages, this coffee maker is the ultimate choice for you. The strong brew button in this appliance allows you to increase the bold taste and strength of your coffee’s flavor. There is a hot water on-demand feature in this coffee maker allows you to prepare teas, soups, oatmeal and other beverages. This feature comes in handy as it saves you the need for having a kettle or an alternative water heating appliance.

Keurig goes overboard in making this 2.0 coffee maker easy to use and operate. In line with this, the coffee maker features easy controls that make it easy to navigate the appliance. These controls are instant one touch buttons that make it easy for you to input your preferred settings. In addition to this, the appliance has a quiet brew technology that ensures that your appliance produces minimal or no noise at all when brewing.

Large water reservoir

The 75 ounce water reservoir in this coffee maker allows you to brew a large coffee volume without having to refill the water reservoir. With this appliance, you can brew 8 more cups without having to refill the reservoir. If you only take a single coffee cup at a time, then this water reservoir will provide enough water to brew for the whole week.  

There is a brew-over-ice functionality in this coffee maker that comes in handy when you are in the mood for drinking iced coffee. To activate this function, all you need to do is press the “iced” button on the control panel you should only use a plastic cup for this option. Additionally, the coffee maker boasts of variable brew sizes and various customization levels.

Pros
  • Various customization options
  • Variable brew sizes
  • Brew over ice function
  • Large water reservoir
  • Variable brewing temperature
Cons
  • Fairly expensive

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you use vinegar to kill mold in Keurig 1.0 models?

Any coffee maker brand and model can develop mold, and hence this problem is not specific to Keurig 1.0 coffee makers. Vinegar is the best solution to killing and removing mold buildup in your coffee maker. Run vinegar through your coffee maker to remove mold and then rinse the appliance with hot water.

How long do Keurig coffee makers last?

The average lifespan of a Keurig coffee maker is about 5-10 years depending on the care, maintenance, and handling accorded to the coffee maker. The manufacturer only offers a one year warranty guarantee against material defects or performance.

Is it advisable to use tap water in a Keurig coffee maker?

It is recommendable to use only filtered or bottled water in Keurig coffee makers or any other coffee maker brand thereof. The purity of tap water is low, which in turn affects the quality of water and causes scaling in the coffee maker.

Conclusion

The Keurig brand boasts of an amazing collection of best quality coffee makers that are designed to last for long. These appliances look stylish and boast of an amazing performance and reliability. The Keurig 1.0 and 2.0 coffee maker models are designed to provide you with the best performance when brewing your coffee. Additionally, they provide you with the best value for money.

Rating 5/5 - (2 votes)

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