Last Updated on February 15, 2023 by Timothy Byron Smith
Keurig has really come through with its coffee machine models for tiny kitchen spaces. Their new K-Slim and K mini models are an excellent low-cost choice for limited countertop spaces. But the question is how do you choose between Keurig K-Slim vs K-Mini and which is better and why? Here we will answer all these.
Of the two Keurig models, the Keurig mini is considered the better choice by many. When evaluating this coffee machine model over the taste and flavors of coffee, it’s certainly a winner! However, for the enhanced flavors of the Keurig mini, you’ll need to throw in a few extra dollars.
So, should you throw in the extra money or get the K-Slim instead? That’s exactly what this guide is here to answer.
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Keurig’s K-Slim vs the K-Mini Coffee Maker (Specifications)
Here is a quick summary of the features you can expect from Keurig mini vs slim. This will give you a simple idea of which machine might suit your preferences before we dive into the details.
| Specifications | Keurig K-Slim | Keurig K-Mini |
| Weight | 6.2 pounds | 4.6 pounds |
| Dimensions (W x H x D) inches | 4.7″ x 12.1″ x 15.2” | 4.5” x 12.1” x 11.3” |
| Colors | Black and White | Matte Black, Poppy Red, Studio Gray, Oasis, Dusty Rose |
| Water Tank Capacity | 46 ounces
(Removable) |
Up to 12 ounces
(Not Removable) |
| Serving Size | 8, 10, & 12 ounces | 6 to 12 ounces |
| Automatic Turn-off | After 5minutes | After 90 seconds |
| Strong Brew Option | No | Yes |
| Reusable filter compatibility | Yes | Yes |
| Indicator Lights | Yes | No |
| Travel Mug compatibility | Compatible with 7 inches-tall mugs | Compatible with 7 inches-tall mugs |
| Cord Storage Options | No | Yes |
| Pod Storage Option | No | No |
| Removable Drip Tray | Yes | Yes |
| Pod Compatibility | Yes | Yes |
| Grounds Compatibility | Yes | Yes |
| Ideal for use in | Home | Home |
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K-Mini vs The K-Slim: Comparable Features
Keurig has recently gained 3 million new users, its machines must have some very unique features!
As products of the same renowned Keurig band, the K-Slim and the K-Mini comprise both unique and similar features. So, here are some exciting features you’ll get depending on the Keurig you prefer.
1. Material & Design
Although both the Keurig models are designed with top-quality material to exude style and elegance, K-Mini does a better job at it out of the two. It is environmentally friendly because of the reduced use of virgin plastic. Plus, it comes in various different colors.
The Keurig K-slim comes in just two different colors: black and white. And while these colors fit in almost everywhere, they might not comply with your particular aesthetics. The Keurig K-Mini features a beautiful array of colors from matte black and poppy red to studio gray, oasis, and dusty rose.
K-mini will fit right into your Kitchen. And not just literally. Its variety of colors allows it to blend in with every unique decor. So, if you’re looking for a customized look, the K-mini is the right choice for you.
2. Weight & Size
The Keurig Slim and Keurig Mini are designed to fit into small kitchen spaces. So, it is no surprise that they have smaller weights and sizes compared to your average coffee machine. However, between them, the K-Slim is larger compared to the K-mini – no surprise there, duh!
The Keurig K-Slim weighing 6.2 pounds is heavier than the Keurig K-mini which weighs 4.6 pounds. The difference isn’t a lot, you won’t feel it much at all. However, it is there and can play a role in influencing your choice. Similarly, K-Slim size-wise is also bigger than the mini K version.
Although this does not mean K-Slim will trouble you in terms of space, there is a possibility that where Slim might be tighter on the countertop Mini will fit more smoothly. Plus, it makes it more travel friendly. Either way, for many this small size difference often doesn’t matter much.
3. Brewing Time, Size, and Quality
The Keurig Slim models offer a much better brew time and brew size variety. You can brew 8 ounces, 10 ounces, or 12 ounces of coffee in 30 seconds. Whereas K-Mini also promises brew sizes between 6-12oz, its small water reservoir does not support these servings all the time. Plus it has a larger brew time of 45 seconds.
However, does the slim win in terms of the brew quality too? Not exactly. Although you can drink larger servings more frequently, Slim is not always referred to for the taste and brew quality. That is mostly considered Keurig Mini’s forte.
Still, K-Slim will satisfy you with a hot and large cup of coffee early in the morning and any other time of the day. Considering only about 43% of people consume coffee for the taste, many coffee lovers end up preferring Slim after all.
4. Water Tank Reservoir
If constantly refilling the water reservoir is your pet peeve or annoys you even the slightest, then we suggest opting for K-Slim. Keurig’s Slim model definitely takes the lead in this regard with a 40 ounces water tank that can brew three different brew sizes. And you will not find yourself running for refills frequently.
Keurig’s K-mini on the other hand is a mini machine so it’s not surprising that it supports a smaller water reservoir. For someone who drinks large amounts of coffee, this coffee machine can be a hassle. You will need to make frequent refilling trips every time you consume coffee.
Lastly, Keurig’s K-Slim has a detachable water reservoir. This makes it easy to refill, and easier to clean, and the entire process avoids mess. K-Mini, on the contrary, has a fixed water reservoir. You will have to bring the water to the machine and refilling can be messy. Plus, cleaning becomes all the more difficult with it.
5. Pod & Cord Storage
While both machines lack the pod storage option, Keurig K-Mini has the cord storage option. This is a big win for this model as cord storage is a super appealing feature for many people. In a tight and small space, you want to store away any and everything possible. K-Mini helps you do that.
If the machine is unplugged you can securely store away the cord in the storage area. This keeps the cord safe, it keeps you safe from any electrical hazards, and generally ensures a cleaner and tidier countertop.
6. Indicators
It is always a big plus if your coffee machine alerts you to various things such as descale time or that the machine is hot enough to brew. It saves you the trouble of constantly checking the machine for this stuff. Simply, Keurig lights blinking means your machine needs your attention!
The K-Mini does not have any indicators so you’ll need to constantly check if it needs descaling or if it’s hot enough to brew. K-Slim on the other hand is a smarter and more advanced machine that itself alerts you to everything. Therefore, its ‘add water’ and ‘descale’ light features make it a winner.
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K-Mini vs the K-Slim: Similar Features
Despite their differences, the two models share the same parent brand. There are a few standard features that you will enjoy in both machines, regardless of your preference.
1. Single-Serve Mechanism
We’re not quite sure if this is a mechanism you will enjoy or not but it is what you get. Both the K-SLim and K-Mini only have a single-serve mechanism. So, you can only brew a single cup of coffee at a time. This can be a bummer for many people, especially if they plan to serve coffee and have to slowly fill cups one at a time.
However, the plus side is, that both machines accommodate travel mugs of up to 7 inches. So, in a single serving, you can get more coffee for yourself. This saves the hassle of refilling the mug again and again.
2. Compact Size
Keeping aside the super small weight and height difference both the Keurig models share a very compact size on average. Who says coffee machines are not for small kitchens? Because Keurig is making the dream come true for you! Both these models are the ideal choice for nifty kitchen spaces.
From the front, especially, the machine is just a little under 5 inches wide. Their slim and stylish designs make them compact, easy to fit anywhere, and also elegant.
3. Removable Drip trays
Removable drip trays are another feature that both the Keurig machines share. They are one of the reasons why making espresso with Keurig is so convenient. This makes cleaning spills incredibly convenient. Plus, the removable drip trays also help in accommodating travel mugs to get larger brew sizes.
4. Energy Saving Mode
Both machines are equipped with an energy-saving mode option with their auto-shut-off feature. The Keurig K-Slim is programmed to automatically shut off after five minutes of inactivity. However, the Keurig K-Mini is designed to shut off after 90 seconds of inactivity.
Neither will you be consuming unnecessary power nor will you be paying heft electric bills! It’s a win-win situation!
5. Pods and Ground Coffee Compatibility
Whether you prefer using coffee pods or ground coffee itself, you can fulfill your desire with both of these models. This is a super convenient feature found in both K-Slim and K-Mini.
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What is the Keurig’s K-Mini Plus Strong Button?
A different model in Keurig’s K-Mini series is the Keurig K-Mini Plus. It features a unique option called the ‘Strong Button’ that is an excellent perk for many coffee lovers out there.
The Strong Button feature brews a special cup of strong and bold coffee that is different from the regular brew. This feature basically slows the brewing process by just enough time to extract enhanced flavors into the brewed coffee. However, it is not found in either the K-Slim or the K-Mini.
Which Machine Makes the Better and Hottest Coffee: K-Slim or K-Mini?
If you want better coffee, the general public reviews point to the K-Mini coffee machine. However, in terms of hot coffee, both the Keurig models stand on almost the same plane. Both machines brew a good cup of hot coffee that you will definitely like.
The temperature of the coffee is not known for being super hot or anything. While the Keurig Mini is known for its better coffee taste and quality, temperature-wise they are both equally good enough. Still, the K-Slim will brew you the same hot coffee faster, so there’s a bonus you might want to get.
Keurig’s K-Slim vs the K-Mini: Here’s the Winner!
With this extensive review of several different features of both coffee machines, our verdict lies with the Keurig K-Slim. Yes, the K-Mini is slightly cheaper, comes in more colors, has cord storage, and whatnot, but those features don’t turn the scales in their favor.
The K-Slim model is more practical for coffee lovers. With a larger water tank, better brew sizes, and brew time, as well as advanced indicator features, K-Slim definitely takes the winner’s stand. It is hassle-free, convenient, and time-saving too!
Given the better brew quality of the K-mini, you might end up considering it and that is great for you! However, K-mini is not as readily available plus is a better brew even worth it if you can’t savor it to your heart’s desire without a hundred refill trips?
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Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can you use any K cups for Keurig Slim?
Yes. Keurig Slim is compatible with all regular K cups. This includes both Keurig brand and non-Keurig brand cups.
2. Can you use ground coffee in Keurig K-Slim?
Yes. Keurig K-Slim sips are compatible with both pods and ground coffee.
3. Can the Keurig Slim make tea?
Since the Keurig K-Slim is compatible with pods you can brew both coffee and tea in the machine.
4. Can I get hot water from Keurig Slim?
Keurig slim has the option of dispensing just hot water.
Final Words
So, if you are confused between the Keurig K-Slim vs K-Mini, the obvious winner of the two is the Keurig Slim. It does cost a little more than the K-Mini, however, it has better and more advanced features that make it worth the price. From a larger reservoir to shorter brew time, and indicator lights, it has everything!
So, if you consume coffee frequently and anticipate making coffee for guests etc. opt for the K-Slim. However, for minimal usage, the K-mini can do.
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