Are you wondering what the difference is between the Keurig K50 and K55?
Well, you're not alone! There are thousands of people who have this same burning question so we decided to answer it once and for all.
I have read multiple articles claiming there are differences between these models. To be honest, these aren't very well researched. Somebody got some bad information and a fleet of similar websites followed their lead.
We are here to say this: These two coffee makers are the SAME.
But wait! Does this mean you shouldn't consider the K50 and K55? No way! This just means this particular machine was so popular that Keurig didn't need to change it.
So here's why Keurig released the same model with 2 different names:
Marketing.
Yup, that's it. If you don't stay fresh, you lose your audience. Re-releasing the Keurig K50 coffee maker under the guise of "K55" is Keurig's way of staying in front of their customers.
If you don't want to take our word for it, take a look at the side by side comparison of these coffee makers:
Keurig K50    | Keurig K55 | |
|---|---|---|
K-Cup Compatibility | Unlicensed K-Cups, Keurig 2.0 licensed K-Cups, Keurig 1.0 reusable My K-Cup | Unlicensed K-Cups, Keurig 2.0 licensed K-Cups, Keurig 1.0 reusable My K-Cup |
Brew Sizes | 6 oz, 8 oz, 10 oz | 6 oz, 8 oz, 10 oz |
Water Reservoir Capacity | 48 oz | 48 oz |
Comes with Water Filter Kit | No | No |
Touch Display | No | No |
Auto-On | Yes | Yes |
Pricing |
So as you can see, they have the same specs. However, the K55 is what is pushed nowadays so you can find a lot of good deals and quick shipping.
So now that we have that covered let's dig into the details of this coffee machine so you can decide if its a good choice for your needs.
Specs and Longevity
The K50 and K55 line of brewers is the classic line of coffee makers from Keurig. They are often referred to as Keurig 1.0 or K-Classic line. This model uses the tried and tested "pop in pod" style of brewing. This is exactly what it sounds like. You have a coffee pod, you pop it in then BAM you've got yourself a quick cup of coffee.
Seeing as these are the original design from Keurig, they are missing some of the upgraded features you get on some more expensive models such as a touch screen on the K250 model and temperature control of the Keurig Elite model.
Keurig does recommend regular maintenance on all of their coffee machine models. Specifically, the most important thing you can do to extend the life of your Keurig coffee machine is periodic de-scaling. Keurig support claims the frequency that you should do this depends on how pure your water is, but de-scaling every 3-6 months is a good baseline.
With regular maintenance, you can expect your Keurig machine to last just as long as any other coffee maker out there.
Aesthetics
This part of the article may not be as important to everyone, but if the design and décor are just as important as your coffee cup, then continue reading!
For the price, the Keurig K50 and K55 model looks very classy and pretty impressive in jet black or red. It will likely be one of the first things your guests notice in your kitchen.
Not only is there no fuss with the controls, but it has indicator lights too. These lights guide you throughout your java making experience and illuminate your countertop - Now that’s fancy!
Variety
Let’s be honest here when Keurig first presented its single served K-Cups we couldn’t be more excited and couldn’t wait to taste them! Coffeeholics don’t deny the excitement!
The joy that brought every morning a new flavor of coffee without having to drive anywhere was the best thing ever! Some of these flavors didn’t make the cut but others made some of us need to check into coffee rehab.
On that note:
On the off chance that change is what you're into then we can guarantee you that ALL Keurig machines offer you that!
But that’s not the best part!
You don't even need to stick to K-Cups to enjoy a variety of flavors. You can buy a variety of 3rd party coffee pods that work with just about every Keurig machine currently on the market.
Wait there’s more..
If you’re not a coffee drinker or want to change it up a bit, both models allow you to brew your favorite teas, hot chocolate, and iced teas- making this a family-friendly treat.
Convenience
For your convenience, the K50 and K55 comes with a single button control board making it incredibly easy to use.
This model features a removable drip tray and a vast reservoir that measures 48- ounces. This means you’re able to fit most size mugs underneath it and can keep refilling your cup up to six times.
As expected with Keurig, you can also expect your coffee to be brewed rather quickly, which is essential for a lot of people. The Keurig K50 and K55 will brew you a piping hot cup-of-joe in 1 minute flat.
Most of us wake up half asleep and don’t want to wait 5-10 minutes for coffee in the morning. So who wouldn’t want a coffee maker that does everything for you with just a push of a button, with coffee ready in under a minute?
Taste
Last but certainly not least, the flavor! To get the best result for taste, brew a 6-ounce cup. Anything more substantial and your coffee can get diluted.
If strong coffee is what you're after, you may be more interested in the slightly more expensive Keurig K-Elite. One of its main selling points is its strong brew and iced coffee settings.
Overall, the taste of your coffee depends on the K-Cup you use, and how diluted you want your coffee.
Is The K50/K55 Coffee Maker Worth It?
Manufacturers wanted to get a bump in sales for the K50, and the best way to do that was to reintroduce it as the K55. Now, say what you will about this marketing technique, but it doesn't take away from the fact that the K-Classic series of coffee makers are a fantastic piece of machinery, priced affordably.
Let's Pass It To You Now
How do you feel about Keurig using this marketing technique to sell more units?
Which Keurig unit is most appealing to you?
Let us know what you think in the comments section below!
