Keurig Mini vs Mini Plus: Which One Is Worth Buying

The Keurig K-Mini Plus adds three key upgrades over the K-Mini: a removable water reservoir for easier cleaning, a strong brew button for bolder coffee, and built-in storage for 9 K-Cup pods. If you’re looking for a compact coffee maker that fits perfectly in small spaces, you’ve probably noticed both machines have identical 4.5-inch widths. Here’s the truth: the K-Mini Plus costs $20-$40 more, but those upgrades matter if you drink coffee daily. I’ve spent months testing both single-serve coffee makers, and I’ll show you exactly which features are worth paying extra for.

The K-Mini: Minimalist Single-Serve

The Keurig K-Mini is the simplest and least expensive Keurig you can buy. It’s less than 5 inches wide, making it perfect for small spaces like dorm rooms, apartments, or tiny kitchen counters.

This machine focuses on one thing: brewing a great cup of coffee without taking up much space. You won’t find fancy features here, but that’s exactly the point. The K-Mini delivers straightforward, reliable coffee brewing in the smallest package possible.

The Keurig K-Mini Plus takes everything great about the K-Mini and adds three thoughtful upgrades. It’s still just as compact, but now you get a removable water reservoir, a strong brew button, and built-in pod storage.

These extras make the K-Mini Plus more convenient for daily use, especially if you’re brewing multiple cups throughout the day. The question is: are these features worth the extra $20-$40?

Design & Dimensions

Here’s something interesting: both machines have the exact same footprint. The height, width, and depth are identical at 12.1″H x 4.5″W x 11.3″D.

The K-Mini weighs 4.6 pounds, while the K-Mini Plus weighs 5 pounds. That tiny difference won’t matter unless you’re constantly moving your coffee maker around.

Both models come with cord storage, which makes them easier to transport. The cords are about 24 inches long, giving you flexibility in where you place them on your counter.

Color options differ between the two. The K-Mini comes in six vibrant choices including Pink, Oasis, Evergreen, Studio Gray, Dusty Rose, and Black. The K-Mini Plus is available in just two colors: Matte Black and Cardinal Red.

Water Reservoir: A Critical Difference

This is where things get interesting, and honestly, it’s the biggest difference between these two machines.

The K-Mini has a fixed, non-removable 12 oz reservoir. You add fresh water for each brew, but you can’t take the tank out for cleaning. To clean it, you’ll need to wipe the inside with a damp, lint-free cloth.

The K-Mini Plus has a removable 12 oz reservoir. You can lift it out, wash it in the sink, and even put it in the dishwasher. This makes cleaning so much easier.

Why does this matter? Water gets trapped underneath fixed reservoirs, and mold can grow over time. Many users report this issue with the K-Mini after several months of use. The removable reservoir on the K-Mini Plus solves this problem completely.

Real talk: This feature alone might justify the upgrade if you plan to use your coffee maker daily for years. Mold prevention isn’t just about convenience, it’s about keeping your coffee tasting fresh and your machine lasting longer.

Both units require you to add water before each brew. The minimum is 6 ounces, and the maximum is 12 ounces. You pour in exactly how much you want, and the machine pulls that entire amount into your cup.

Brewing Technology & Performance

Both machines use the same brewing system. They’re pod-based coffee systems that work with K-Cup pods for coffee, tea, or hot cocoa. You can also use your own ground coffee with the Keurig reusable filter.

The pod holder sits flat on both units, which is different from most other Keurig models where they come up at an angle. Both have two piercing needles: one on top and one inside the K-Cup holder.

To remove the K-Cup holder, push it from the bottom and it comes out. Some reusable filters have an adapter on the bottom, so make sure you remove it before putting the filter in. Also, remember to put the K-Cup pod holder back in if you want to use a K-Cup.

Brew time is nearly identical. Both machines make coffee in about 2 to 2.5 minutes for a regular brew. The K-Mini Plus takes an extra 20-30 seconds when you use the strong button.

Both models are travel mug friendly. The removable drip tray accommodates travel mugs up to 7.0 inches tall. You just lift the drip tray forward, and both hold about 8 ounces of overflow. You can wash them out when needed.

Button Controls & Usability

The K-Mini keeps things super simple with just 2 buttons: power and brew. There’s almost no learning curve. You press the power button, add water, insert a K-Cup, and hit brew. That’s it.

The K-Mini Plus has 3 buttons: power, strong, and brew. It’s still incredibly easy to use, but you now have one extra option to consider.

That extra button is the strong brew feature, and it’s worth understanding what it actually does.

The Strong Button Explained

The strong button doesn’t use less water or change the amount of coffee in your cup. Instead, it slows down how fast the water flows through the K-Cup.

Think of it this way: when water moves through coffee grounds more slowly, it has more time to extract flavor and caffeine. The steep time extends by about 20-30 seconds, creating a more saturated, intense brew.

Here’s what I discovered: The strong button makes a noticeable difference, especially with lighter roasts. The coffee tastes richer and has more body. If you’re a serious coffee drinker who wants control over your brew strength, this feature is genuinely useful.

However, if you’re a casual coffee drinker who grabs one cup in the morning and goes, you probably won’t miss it. The standard brew mode on the K-Mini makes perfectly good coffee.

The Keurig K-Cup system is compatible with hundreds of pod varieties, so you have endless options either way.

Pod Storage & Convenience

The K-Mini has no built-in storage. You’ll need to keep your K-Cup pods in a cabinet or separate storage container.

The K-Mini Plus includes an integrated 9-pod storage holder on the front panel. It’s a slide-out compartment that holds nine pods. You can pull it out while you’re brewing, and when you’re done, just slide it back on.

Is this useful? It depends on your habits. If you drink coffee occasionally, having 9 pods right there is convenient. But if you’re a heavy coffee drinker going through 3-4 cups a day, you’ll still need additional storage anyway.

Many users find this feature nice but not essential. It’s a small convenience that saves one step in your morning routine, but it won’t change your life.

Power & Energy Efficiency

Both machines have an auto-off feature that turns off your coffee maker 90 seconds after your last brew. This helps save energy and is great for busy mornings when you forget to turn things off.

Both models work with standard electrical outlets and don’t require any special installation. Just plug them in, add water, and start brewing.

Complete Specs Breakdown

Both the Keurig K-Mini and Keurig K-Mini Plus are single-cup brewing machines designed for countertop use. They’re part of the compact Keurig brewer family, built specifically for small space coffee makers.

Shared features include:

• Compatible with all K-Cup pods (including reusable filters)
• Brew size selection from 6 to 12 oz
• Removable drip tray for easy cleaning
• Cord storage for tidy countertops
• 1-year limited warranty
• Plastic housing with modern design
• Auto shut-off for energy saving
• Travel mug compatible with proper clearance

Material quality: Both machines use durable plastic construction. They feel solid despite being lightweight, and the build quality is consistent across both models.

Regional Pricing Comparison

Prices vary depending on where you shop and what color you choose. Here’s what I found:

United States:

• K-Mini: $59.99 to $99.99 (currently $69.99 for Dusty Rose on Amazon)
• K-Mini Plus: $91.17 to $119.99 (currently $91.17 for Matte Black on Amazon)

Canada:

• K-Mini: CAD $189.99
• K-Mini Plus: Similar pricing with about 20% premium

Availability is highest in the USA through major retailers like Amazon, Walmart, Target, and Best Buy. Canadian buyers can find them at Best Buy Canada and specialty retailers.

Where to Buy

You’ll find the best deals on these compact coffee machines at:

• Amazon: Widest selection, frequent discounts
• Walmart: Competitive pricing, in-store pickup
• Target: Exclusive colors sometimes available
• Best Buy: Good for bundled deals

The price difference between models typically ranges from $20 to $50, depending on sales and promotions.

K-Mini Customer Sentiment

The Keurig K-Mini has earned a 4.2-star rating across more than 105,000 reviews. That’s impressive for a budget coffee maker.

What people love:

• Perfect size for dorm rooms and small apartments
• Affordable and delivers good value
• Simple operation with minimal learning curve
• Makes consistently good coffee
• Lightweight and easy to move around
• Great for offices with limited counter space

Common complaints:

• Fixed reservoir is difficult to clean thoroughly
• Brewing noise is louder than expected
• No strong button for flavor control
• Some durability issues reported after 6-12 months
• Water can splash back at the end of brewing
• Coffee tastes weaker compared to models with strong brew

One recurring theme in online discussions is the maintenance challenge. Users on Reddit mention that water gets trapped underneath the fixed reservoir, and mold may grow over time. This isn’t a deal-breaker for everyone, but it’s worth knowing upfront.

Some owners report needing to replace their K-Mini after about 6 months due to reliability issues. Not everyone experiences this, but it comes up often enough to mention. If you experience any issues with your Keurig, check out our complete troubleshooting guide for when your Keurig isn’t working.

K-Mini Plus Customer Sentiment

The Keurig K-Mini Plus has a slightly higher 4.4-star rating with 39,226 reviews. Users appreciate the upgrades, even though it costs more.

What people love:

• Removable reservoir makes cleaning much easier
• Strong brew button creates noticeably better coffee
• Good customer service from Keurig when issues arise
• Pod storage compartment is convenient
• Still compact but with useful feature upgrades

Common complaints:

• Small 12 oz reservoir still requires frequent refills
• Takes 2+ minutes to brew (not instant)
• Pod storage feels unnecessary to some users
• Price premium isn’t justified for light coffee drinkers
• Limited to storing only 9 K-Cup pods

Here’s an interesting quote from a Reddit user that sums it up well: “Strong just slows how fast the water comes out so the steep is longer and more saturated. Worth it if you’re a serious coffee drinker.”

My observation: Satisfaction with the K-Mini Plus upgrade correlates directly with how much coffee you drink. If you’re brewing 3+ cups daily, you’ll probably love the extra features. If you only have one cup occasionally, the basic K-Mini might be all you need.

K-Mini Pros & Cons

Pros:

• Most affordable Keurig option
• Ultra-compact footprint (less than 5 inches wide)
• Simple 2-button operation
• 6 color options to match your style
• Excellent for tight spaces and minimal use
• Slightly lighter than K-Mini Plus

Cons:

• Fixed water reservoir difficult to clean
• No strong brew option
• No pod storage included
• Higher mold risk over time
• Some durability concerns reported
• Weaker coffee for flavor enthusiasts

K-Mini Plus Pros & Cons

Pros:

• Removable water reservoir for easy cleaning
• Strong brew button for better extraction
• Built-in 9-pod storage compartment
• Better long-term maintenance
• Slightly higher user ratings
• Same compact footprint as K-Mini

Cons:

• More expensive ($20-$50 premium)
• Only 2 color choices
• Pod storage limited to 9 capsules
• Extra button adds slight complexity
• Weighs slightly more (5 lbs vs 4.6 lbs)

Let me help you figure out which model makes sense for your situation.

Best For: Budget Buyers – Choose K-Mini

If you’re watching your spending and just need a basic coffee maker, the K-Mini is your answer. You’ll save $20 to $50, and you’ll still get a reliable single-serve coffee maker that works great.

The K-Mini offers about 90% of the functionality at roughly 60% of the price. For occasional coffee drinkers or anyone on a tight budget, this is the smart choice.

Best For: Serious Coffee Drinkers – Choose K-Mini Plus

If coffee is a daily ritual and you care about flavor quality, spend the extra money on the K-Mini Plus. The strong brew button genuinely improves taste, especially if you prefer bold, rich coffee.

The removable reservoir also matters more when you’re using the machine multiple times daily. Easier cleaning means better-tasting coffee over time and a longer-lasting machine.

Best For: Small Space Dwellers – Choose K-Mini

Here’s the thing: both machines have identical dimensions. They’re equally space-efficient. So if your primary concern is fitting a coffee maker on a tiny counter, either one works perfectly.

I’d lean toward the K-Mini in this case because you’re not sacrificing any counter space, and you’ll save money. Put those savings toward better K-Cup pods.

Best For: Students & Dorm Rooms – Choose K-Mini

College students usually have limited budgets and limited counter space. The K-Mini checks both boxes beautifully.

It’s affordable, portable (weighs only 4.6 lbs), and has cord storage for easy transport. You can take it home during breaks without any hassle. The simple 2-button design also means less to worry about when you’re rushing between classes.

Best For: Office & Shared Spaces – Choose K-Mini Plus

In an office coffee machine setting, the K-Mini Plus makes more sense. Multiple people will use it daily, and the removable reservoir makes cleaning and maintenance much more practical.

The pod storage compartment is also handy in shared spaces. Everyone can see available pod options at a glance, and it keeps things organized.

Should You Upgrade From Original K-Mini?

If you already own a K-Mini and it’s working fine, there’s no urgent reason to upgrade. Save your money.

However, if you’re experiencing cleaning difficulties or noticing mold buildup, or if you wish you had stronger coffee, then yes, upgrading to the K-Mini Plus makes sense. The removable reservoir alone could extend your machine’s lifespan significantly.

Exclusive insight from my testing: I found that descaling the K-Mini Plus is noticeably easier than the K-Mini. Being able to remove the tank, clean it separately, and visually inspect for mineral buildup gives you better control over maintenance. This translates to better-tasting coffee and potentially years of additional use.

K-Mini vs. Nespresso Essenza Mini

The Nespresso Essenza Mini is another popular compact coffee maker. It’s similar in size but uses Nespresso pods instead of K-Cups.

Nespresso pods generally cost more per cup, but many coffee enthusiasts prefer the taste. The Essenza Mini also makes espresso-style drinks, which the K-Mini cannot do.

If you want traditional drip coffee and access to hundreds of affordable K-Cup varieties, stick with the K-Mini. If you prefer espresso-based drinks and don’t mind the higher pod cost, consider the Nespresso.

K-Mini vs. Keurig K-Slim

The Keurig K-Slim is slightly larger but adds a few features like a 46 oz water reservoir. You won’t need to refill it after every cup.

However, the K-Slim is wider and won’t fit in spaces where the K-Mini thrives. If you have the counter space, the K-Slim offers more convenience. If space is tight, the K-Mini is the better choice. For more Keurig comparisons, read about the differences between Keurig K-Duo Gen 1 and Gen 2.

K-Mini vs. Hamilton Beach FlexBrew

The Hamilton Beach FlexBrew is a versatile machine that brews both K-Cups and ground coffee from a single basket. It’s more flexible but also bulkier.

If you want the absolute smallest footprint, the K-Mini wins. If you value brewing flexibility over size, the FlexBrew might suit you better. We’ve reviewed the Hamilton Beach 46310 Coffee Maker if you want to explore more affordable coffee maker options.

Taking care of your Keurig ensures it lasts longer and makes better coffee. Here’s what I recommend:

Daily maintenance:

• Wipe down the exterior with a damp cloth
• Empty and rinse the drip tray
• Remove used K-Cups promptly

Weekly maintenance (K-Mini Plus):

• Remove and wash the water reservoir
• Let it air dry completely before reinstalling
• Check for any coffee residue around the pod holder

Weekly maintenance (K-Mini):

• Wipe inside the reservoir with a lint-free cloth
• Let it air dry with the lid open for a few hours
• This helps prevent mold growth

Monthly descaling: Both machines need descaling every 3-6 months, depending on your water hardness. Calcium and scale are non-toxic, but left unattended, they can hinder your brewer’s performance.

The descaling process is the same for both models:

1. Fill the reservoir with descaling solution
2. Run brew cycles without a pod until empty
3. Rinse by running fresh water cycles
4. Repeat until no vinegar smell remains

For detailed step-by-step descaling instructions specific to your model, visit Keurig’s official descaling guide.

Pro tip: If you notice your coffee tasting off or brewing slowly, it’s time to descale, even if it hasn’t been 3 months yet.

What is the difference between K-Mini and K-Mini Plus?

The K-Mini Plus adds three features: a removable water reservoir, a strong brew button, and built-in storage for 9 pods. The dimensions and basic brewing capability are identical.

Is K-Mini Plus worth the extra cost?

It depends on how you use it. If you drink multiple cups daily and want easier maintenance plus stronger coffee, yes. If you’re an occasional coffee drinker, the basic K-Mini probably suffices.

Does K-Mini have a strong button?

No, the K-Mini does not have a strong button. Only the K-Mini Plus includes this feature.

Can you remove the water reservoir on K-Mini?

No, the K-Mini has a fixed reservoir that cannot be removed. You must wipe it clean with a damp cloth. The K-Mini Plus has a removable reservoir.

How much coffee does K-Mini Plus hold?

The K-Mini Plus doesn’t hold coffee grounds. It uses K-Cup pods, and you add fresh water (6-12 oz) before each brew. The pod storage compartment holds 9 K-Cup pods.

Does K-Mini work with all K-Cups?

Yes, both the K-Mini and K-Mini Plus work with all K-Cup pods, including coffee, tea, and hot cocoa varieties. You can also use compatible reusable filters.

What is the K-Mini Plus strong button?

The strong button slows water flow through the K-Cup, extending steep time by 20-30 seconds. This increases flavor extraction and creates a more intense, bolder cup of coffee.

Can you brew a travel mug with K-Mini Plus?

Yes, both models accommodate travel mugs up to 7 inches tall. Just remove the drip tray to create more clearance.

How much does K-Mini Plus cost?

The K-Mini Plus typically costs $91 to $120, depending on color and retailer. Sales and promotions can bring it lower.

Which Keurig is best for small spaces?

Both the K-Mini and K-Mini Plus are excellent for small spaces. They’re less than 5 inches wide and have identical dimensions. Choose based on features, not size.

How long does K-Mini Plus take to brew?

Standard brew takes about 2 to 2.5 minutes. Using the strong button adds 20-30 seconds to the brew time.

What is the warranty on K-Mini?

Both models come with a 1-year limited warranty from Keurig covering manufacturing defects.

Can you use regular coffee in K-Mini?

Yes, you can use regular ground coffee with the Keurig reusable filter (sold separately). Just make sure to remove any adapter from the filter before inserting it.

Does K-Mini have temperature control?

No, neither model has adjustable temperature control. They brew at a preset temperature optimized for K-Cup extraction.

What K-Cup brands work with K-Mini Plus?

All K-Cup brands work with both models, including Green Mountain, Starbucks, Dunkin’, Folgers, and hundreds of other varieties.

How do you clean K-Mini Plus?

Remove the reservoir and wash it in warm, soapy water or the dishwasher. Wipe the exterior with a damp cloth. Descale every 3-6 months.

Is K-Mini Plus loud?

It’s about as loud as most single-serve coffee makers during brewing. Some users find it louder than expected, but it’s not excessive.

Can you descale K-Mini?

Yes, both models should be descaled regularly using Keurig descaling solution or white vinegar. This removes mineral buildup and maintains performance.

What’s included in K-Mini Plus box?

The box includes the K-Mini Plus coffee maker and a pod storage unit that holds up to 9 K-Cup pods. No pods are included.

Is K-Mini better than Nespresso?

They serve different purposes. K-Mini makes regular drip coffee with affordable pods. Nespresso makes espresso-style drinks with pricier pods. Choose based on your coffee preference.

After testing both machines extensively, here’s my honest recommendation:

Choose the K-Mini if:

• You’re on a budget
• You drink coffee occasionally (1-2 cups per day)
• You want the simplest possible operation
• You prefer having more color options

Choose the K-Mini Plus if:

• You drink 3+ cups daily
• You care about coffee strength and flavor
• You want easier long-term maintenance
• The removable reservoir matters to you

Both are excellent compact Keurig coffee machines that deliver reliable performance in small spaces. You really can’t go wrong with either choice.

The good news? Whichever model you pick, you’re getting a quality single-serve coffee maker from a trusted brand. The Keurig ecosystem gives you access to hundreds of K-Cup varieties, and both machines are user-friendly enough for anyone to use.

My personal choice? I’d spend the extra money on the K-Mini Plus. The removable water reservoir and strong brew button add enough value to justify the cost, especially if you plan to use the machine for years.

Ready to make your decision? Check current prices at your favorite retailer and grab whichever model fits your needs. Your perfect morning cup of coffee is just one click away.

What’s your experience? Have you used either the K-Mini or K-Mini Plus? Which features matter most to you in a compact coffee maker? Share your thoughts in the comments below!