Are you in the market for a compact and convenient coffee maker? Look no further than the Keurig Mini and Mini Plus. Both of these popular models offer a range of features and benefits that make them ideal for small kitchens, offices, and dorm rooms. But what sets them apart? In this article, we’ll delve into the key differences between the Keurig Mini and Mini Plus, helping you make an informed decision when choosing the perfect coffee maker for your needs.
Design and Size
One of the most noticeable differences between the Keurig Mini and Mini Plus is their design and size. The Keurig Mini is a compact and lightweight coffee maker that measures 11 inches tall and 4 inches wide. It’s perfect for small spaces and can easily fit on a countertop or in a cabinet. The Mini Plus, on the other hand, is slightly larger, measuring 12 inches tall and 4.5 inches wide. While it’s still compact, it’s not as slim as the Mini.
Weight and Portability
In terms of weight, the Keurig Mini is significantly lighter than the Mini Plus. The Mini weighs in at just 6.5 pounds, making it easy to move around and transport. The Mini Plus, on the other hand, weighs 8.5 pounds, which is still relatively lightweight but not as portable as the Mini.
Features and Functionality
When it comes to features and functionality, both the Keurig Mini and Mini Plus offer a range of benefits. Here are some key similarities and differences:
Brewing Options
Both the Keurig Mini and Mini Plus offer a range of brewing options, including:
- Single-serve brewing: Both models allow you to brew a single cup of coffee at a time.
- K-cup compatibility: Both models are compatible with Keurig’s K-cup pods, which offer a wide range of coffee flavors and brands.
- Strong brew option: Both models offer a strong brew option, which allows you to brew a bolder cup of coffee.
However, the Mini Plus offers a few additional features, including:
- Travel mug friendly: The Mini Plus has a removable drip tray, which allows you to brew directly into a travel mug.
- 40-oz water reservoir: The Mini Plus has a larger water reservoir than the Mini, which means you can brew more cups of coffee before needing to refill.
Additional Features
The Mini Plus also offers a few additional features that set it apart from the Mini, including:
- Digital display: The Mini Plus has a digital display that shows the current brew settings and allows you to adjust the brew strength and cup size.
- Automatic shut-off: The Mini Plus has an automatic shut-off feature, which turns off the coffee maker after a period of inactivity.
Performance and Maintenance
When it comes to performance and maintenance, both the Keurig Mini and Mini Plus offer a range of benefits. Here are some key similarities and differences:
Brewing Time
Both the Keurig Mini and Mini Plus offer fast brewing times, with most cups of coffee brewing in under 2 minutes. However, the Mini Plus is slightly faster, with a brewing time of around 1 minute and 30 seconds.
Descale Indicator
Both models have a descale indicator that alerts you when it’s time to descale the coffee maker. However, the Mini Plus has a more advanced descale system, which uses a combination of lights and sounds to alert you when it’s time to descale.
Cleaning and Maintenance
Both models are easy to clean and maintain, with removable parts and a dishwasher-safe design. However, the Mini Plus has a few additional features that make cleaning and maintenance easier, including:
- Removable drip tray: The Mini Plus has a removable drip tray that makes it easy to clean up spills and drips.
- Cleaning indicator: The Mini Plus has a cleaning indicator that alerts you when it’s time to clean the coffee maker.
Price and Value
When it comes to price and value, both the Keurig Mini and Mini Plus offer a range of benefits. Here are some key similarities and differences:
Price
The Keurig Mini is generally priced lower than the Mini Plus, with a typical price range of around $50-$70. The Mini Plus, on the other hand, is typically priced in the range of $70-$100.
Value
While the Mini Plus is more expensive than the Mini, it offers a range of additional features and benefits that make it a better value in the long run. These include:
- Larger water reservoir: The Mini Plus has a larger water reservoir, which means you can brew more cups of coffee before needing to refill.
- Digital display: The Mini Plus has a digital display that shows the current brew settings and allows you to adjust the brew strength and cup size.
- Automatic shut-off: The Mini Plus has an automatic shut-off feature, which turns off the coffee maker after a period of inactivity.
Conclusion
When it comes to choosing between the Keurig Mini and Mini Plus, it ultimately comes down to your specific needs and preferences. If you’re looking for a compact and lightweight coffee maker that’s easy to use and maintain, the Keurig Mini may be the better choice. However, if you’re willing to pay a bit more for additional features and benefits, the Mini Plus is definitely worth considering.
| Feature | Keurig Mini | Keurig Mini Plus |
|---|---|---|
| Design and Size | 11 inches tall, 4 inches wide | 12 inches tall, 4.5 inches wide |
| Weight and Portability | 6.5 pounds | 8.5 pounds |
| Brewing Options | Single-serve brewing, K-cup compatibility, strong brew option | Single-serve brewing, K-cup compatibility, strong brew option, travel mug friendly, 40-oz water reservoir |
| Additional Features | None | Digital display, automatic shut-off, removable drip tray, cleaning indicator |
| Price | $50-$70 | $70-$100 |
In conclusion, the Keurig Mini and Mini Plus are both excellent coffee makers that offer a range of features and benefits. While the Mini is a great choice for those on a budget, the Mini Plus offers additional features and benefits that make it a better value in the long run.
What is the main difference between the Keurig Mini and Mini Plus?
The main difference between the Keurig Mini and Mini Plus is the design and features. The Keurig Mini is a compact and lightweight coffee maker that is designed for small spaces, while the Mini Plus has a slightly larger design with additional features such as a removable water reservoir and a stronger pump.
The Mini Plus also has a more modern design with a sleek and compact body that fits perfectly on any countertop. The Keurig Mini, on the other hand, has a more basic design that is functional but not as stylish. Overall, the Mini Plus offers more features and a better design, but it is also slightly more expensive than the Keurig Mini.
Which coffee maker is more portable, the Keurig Mini or Mini Plus?
The Keurig Mini is more portable than the Mini Plus due to its smaller size and lighter weight. It is designed to be compact and lightweight, making it easy to take on the go or move from one location to another. The Keurig Mini weighs only 4.6 pounds and measures 11 inches tall, making it the perfect coffee maker for small spaces or travel.
In contrast, the Mini Plus is slightly larger and heavier, weighing 6.6 pounds and measuring 12.1 inches tall. While it is still relatively compact, it is not as portable as the Keurig Mini. However, the Mini Plus has a removable water reservoir that makes it easier to fill and clean, which may be a trade-off for some users.
Can I use my own coffee grounds with the Keurig Mini and Mini Plus?
Yes, both the Keurig Mini and Mini Plus allow you to use your own coffee grounds with the My K-Cup Universal Reusable Coffee Filter. This filter is a separate accessory that can be purchased online or in-store, and it allows you to brew your favorite coffee grounds in your Keurig coffee maker.
Using your own coffee grounds can be a cost-effective and environmentally friendly option, as you can buy coffee beans in bulk and reduce your waste. However, it’s worth noting that the Keurig Mini and Mini Plus are designed to work with K-Cup pods, and using your own coffee grounds may affect the taste and quality of your coffee.
How do I descale the Keurig Mini and Mini Plus?
Descaling the Keurig Mini and Mini Plus is an important maintenance task that should be done every 3-6 months to remove mineral deposits and prevent damage to the machine. To descale your Keurig coffee maker, you can use a descaling solution or a mixture of equal parts water and white vinegar.
Run the descaling solution or vinegar mixture through the machine several times to remove any mineral deposits, then rinse the machine with fresh water to remove any residue. It’s also a good idea to refer to the user manual for specific descaling instructions, as the process may vary depending on the model and type of Keurig coffee maker you have.
Can I use the Keurig Mini and Mini Plus with a travel mug?
Yes, both the Keurig Mini and Mini Plus are compatible with travel mugs, but you may need to remove the drip tray to accommodate taller mugs. The Keurig Mini has a removable drip tray that can be taken out to fit larger mugs, while the Mini Plus has a adjustable drip tray that can be moved up or down to accommodate different mug sizes.
Using a travel mug with your Keurig coffee maker is a great way to take your coffee on the go, and both machines are designed to work with a variety of mug sizes. However, it’s worth noting that the Keurig Mini and Mini Plus may not fit all travel mug sizes, so be sure to check the dimensions before purchasing.
What is the warranty on the Keurig Mini and Mini Plus?
The Keurig Mini and Mini Plus both come with a 1-year limited warranty that covers defects in materials and workmanship. This warranty is standard for all Keurig coffee makers and provides peace of mind for customers who are purchasing a new machine.
If you experience any issues with your Keurig Mini or Mini Plus during the warranty period, you can contact Keurig customer service for assistance. They will be able to help you troubleshoot the issue or replace the machine if it is defective. It’s worth noting that the warranty does not cover damage caused by misuse or neglect, so be sure to follow the user manual and maintenance instructions to keep your machine in good working order.
Are the Keurig Mini and Mini Plus energy efficient?
Yes, both the Keurig Mini and Mini Plus are energy efficient and designed to use minimal power. They have an automatic shut-off feature that turns off the machine after a certain period of inactivity, which helps to conserve energy and reduce waste.
The Keurig Mini and Mini Plus also have a compact design that uses less energy than larger coffee makers. They are designed to brew a single cup of coffee at a time, which reduces energy consumption and waste. Overall, the Keurig Mini and Mini Plus are great options for customers who are looking for an energy-efficient coffee maker that is also compact and convenient.