Keurig K-Iced Coffee Maker review the ultimate single-serve brewer for hot and iced coffee

Description

A Sleek and Compact Design

The first thing that caught my eye about the Keurig K-Iced Coffee Maker (Model 5000371871) was its compact and modern design. It doesn’t take up much counter space, which is a big win for me since my kitchen is already pretty crowded. Measuring just 12.9″ x 5.1″ x 12.6″, this coffee maker fits snugly in tight corners yet manages to stand out with its sleek gray finish. The overall build feels sturdy, and the buttons are easy to access and intuitive to use. One feature I appreciated was the removable drip tray, which accommodates tumblers up to 7 inches tall—perfect for my on-the-go mornings when I need to fill a travel mug.

Performance That Delivers on Both Hot and Iced Coffee

I’m a coffee junkie, and the dual functionality of this machine is impressive. It brews both full-bodied hot coffee and refreshing iced coffee with ease. The Brew Over Ice button is a game-changer. By starting the brew at a hotter temperature to extract maximum flavor before cooling it down, it ensures that my iced coffee isn’t watered down. I’ve tried brewing iced coffee with other machines before, and I always ended up with bland, weak results, but this feature ensures a vibrant and balanced taste every time.

For hot coffee, the Strong Brew setting delivers a bolder, more intense cup. I tend to prefer my coffee on the stronger side, and this option makes a noticeable difference in flavor depth. The fact that it offers three cup sizes (8, 10, and 12 ounces) is a nice touch, allowing me to adjust based on my caffeine needs.

Ease of Use and Features

This coffee maker is fully automatic, and I barely had to glance at the manual to figure it out. The 42oz removable water reservoir is one of its best features—I can brew up to four cups before needing a refill, which saves me time during busy mornings. It’s also energy-efficient, with an auto-off feature that powers down the machine five minutes after the last brew. I love this because I’m notorious for forgetting to turn appliances off, and this saves both energy and worry.

Another bonus is the compatibility with the MY K-Cup Universal Coffee Filter, which lets me use my own ground coffee. While I usually opt for K-Cup pods, having the flexibility to use my own blend is a definite plus.

Key Benefits

• Dual functionality for brewing hot and iced coffee.
• Brew Over Ice technology ensures iced coffee stays flavorful, not watered down.
• Strong Brew setting for more robust hot coffee.
• Compact and space-saving design, perfect for small kitchens.
• Energy-efficient auto-off feature saves power and offers peace of mind.

Areas for Improvement

While I’m satisfied with this machine, there are a few minor points worth mentioning.

• The water reservoir, though convenient, could be slightly larger for heavy coffee drinkers like me.
• It doesn’t come with a reusable coffee filter, which means you’ll need to buy the MY K-Cup filter separately if you want to use your own grounds.
• The machine is a bit loud during brewing. It’s not a dealbreaker, but it’s worth noting if you’re sensitive to noise.

Competing Products

I’ve owned a few single-serve coffee makers in the past, including some from Nespresso and Hamilton Beach. While Nespresso machines excel at making espresso-style drinks, they lack the dedicated iced coffee functionality that the Keurig offers. On the other hand, Hamilton Beach models are more budget-friendly but often don’t produce coffee with the same depth of flavor.

What sets this product apart is the Brew Over Ice feature, which I haven’t seen in many alternatives. That alone makes it a standout for iced coffee lovers like me. However, compared to higher-end models, it lacks advanced features like app connectivity or brew scheduling, which might be a downside for tech enthusiasts.

Smart Spending

In terms of value for money, this coffee maker hits the sweet spot. It’s not the cheapest single-serve brewer out there, but it’s far from the most expensive. For the versatility it offers—brewing both hot and iced coffee with customizable strength and size options—it feels like a worthwhile investment. I’ve spent more on machines that don’t do half as much, so this one feels like a solid middle ground.

If you’re someone who enjoys switching between refreshing iced coffee in the afternoons and strong hot coffee in the mornings, this machine is a fantastic choice. Its energy efficiency and compatibility with reusable filters also make it an eco-conscious option, which adds to its overall appeal.

This coffee maker blends practicality, style, and performance seamlessly, and while it’s not without its quirks, the positives far outweigh the negatives.

Additional information