As someone who relies on a quick, satisfying cup of coffee to kickstart my mornings, I’ve had my share of Keurig experiences. For many, the choice often boils down to a compact model that fits their space and lifestyle. In this article, I’ll dive deep into two popular contenders that often get referred to as the “Keurig Mini Plus” and the “Keurig Mini Slim”—specifically, the Keurig K-Express Single Serve Coffee Maker and the Keurig K-Mini Single Serve K-Cup Pod Coffee Maker. Having personally tested both, I’ll share my insights to help you figure out which one will become your new favorite countertop companion.
Complete Comparison: keurig mini plus vs slim
| Keurig K-Express Single Serve Coffee Maker | Keurig K-Mini Single Serve K-Cup Pod | |
|---|---|---|
| Product Image |  |
 |
| Price | View On Amazon | View On Amazon |
| Category | Mid-Range | Budget |
| Key Feature: Strong Brew Option | Yes | No |
| Key Feature: Water Reservoir | 42 oz (Multi-cup, removable) | 1-Cup (Refill for each brew) |
| Key Feature: Compactness | Sleek Design | Ultra-compact (Less than 5 inches wide) |
| Brew Size Options | 8, 10, or 12 oz | 6-12 oz (Any size) |
| Travel Mug Height Clearance | Up to 7.4 inches | Up to 7.0 inches |
| Energy Efficient Auto-Off | 5 minutes after last brew | 90 seconds after last brew |
| Cord Storage | No (Not mentioned) | Yes |
| My K-Cup Reusable Filter Compatibility | Yes (Sold separately) | Yes (Sold separately) |
| Fast & Fresh Brewed | In minutes | In minutes |
| Best For | Holiday Hosting, Gifting, Multiple users, Stronger coffee preference | Small Spaces, Solo users, Portability, Tidy countertops |
| Amazon Link | View On Amazon | View On Amazon |
| Overall Winner | Winner | Runner-up |
Keurig K-Express Single Serve Coffee Maker: Power in a Sleek Package
When I first unboxed the Keurig K-Express, I was immediately struck by its modern, slightly more substantial feel compared to other compact models. This isn’t just a basic brewer; it brings some thoughtful upgrades to the table, making it a fantastic choice for those who want more than just the bare minimum in a smaller footprint. Its sleek design makes it an attractive option for holiday hosting or even as a generous gift, fitting seamlessly into various kitchen aesthetics. The biggest standout for me was the 42oz removable reservoir, which means fewer trips to the sink and more time enjoying your coffee.
Key features:
– STRONG BREW: Increases the strength and bold taste of your coffee’s flavor.
– 3 CUP SIZES: Brew an 8, 10, or 12 oz. cup at the push of a button.
– MULTIPLE CUP WATER RESERVOIR: 42oz. removable reservoir lets you brew up to 4 cups before refilling (based on 8 oz. cup size).
– FAST & FRESH BREWED: Delicious coffee made in minutes.
– TRAVEL MUG FRIENDLY: Removable drip tray accommodates travel mugs up to 7.4” tall.
Pros:
– The strong brew option genuinely makes a difference for those who prefer a bolder cup.
– The 42oz water reservoir is incredibly convenient, saving time and effort on busy mornings.
– Offers three different cup sizes for greater customization.
– Accommodates most standard travel mugs, perfect for on-the-go coffee drinkers.
Cons:
– Takes up slightly more counter space than ultra-compact models.
– Can be a bit louder during the brewing cycle compared to some other Keurigs.
Best for: Individuals or small households who value convenience and brew strength variety, hosts looking for an efficient coffee station, or those who frequently use travel mugs.
Expert Opinion: The K-Express strikes a great balance between compact size and enhanced features, particularly its larger reservoir and strong brew option, making it a highly practical choice for daily use.
Keurig K-Mini Single Serve K-Cup Pod Coffee Maker: Compact Convenience
The Keurig K-Mini is the epitome of minimalist coffee brewing. When I set it up, I was amazed at how little space it consumed—it truly lives up to its “mini slim” moniker. At less than 5 inches wide, it’s designed to fit into virtually any nook or cranny, making it ideal for dorm rooms, small apartments, or even a personal office desk. Its “add fresh water for each brew” design is straightforward, ensuring every cup is made with clean, fresh water, though it does mean an extra step for each brew.
Key features:
– FITS ANYWHERE: Less than 5 inches wide, perfect for small spaces. Filter type: Reusable. Temperature Control: No. Froths Milk: No. Display Screen: No. Digital Clock: No.
– YOUR PERFECT AMOUNT: Brew any cup size between 6-12oz with Keurig K-Cup pods.
– ONE CUP RESERVOIR: Just add fresh water for each brew.
– FAST & FRESH BREWED: Coffee made in minutes.
– CORD STORAGE: For easy transport and tidy countertops.
Pros:
– Incredibly space-saving, perfect for the tiniest countertops or travel.
– Simple and straightforward operation with minimal buttons.
– Cord storage is a thoughtful touch for keeping things tidy.
– Ensures fresh water for every brew.
Cons:
– Requires refilling the water reservoir for every single cup.
– Lacks advanced features like strong brew or multiple cup sizes presets.
Best for: Students, solo dwellers in small spaces, office workers, or anyone prioritizing extreme compactness and simplicity over features.
Expert Opinion: The K-Mini excels in its purpose as a highly compact and simple personal brewer, making it an excellent choice for those with limited space who desire a no-fuss coffee experience.
keurig mini plus vs slim: Key Differences That Matter
Now, let’s get down to the brass tacks and compare what truly sets these two machines apart. For the sake of this comparison, we’re referring to the Keurig K-Express as the “Keurig Mini Plus” (due to its enhanced features over the basic K-Mini) and the Keurig K-Mini as the “Keurig Mini Slim” (for its ultra-compact design).
Performance Comparison
The “Keurig Mini Plus” (K-Express) takes a clear lead in performance variety. It offers a strong brew option, which is a game-changer for anyone who finds standard Keurig brews a bit weak. It also provides three distinct brew sizes (8, 10, 12 oz.) at the push of a button, whereas the “Keurig Mini Slim” (K-Mini) brews any size between 6-12 oz. by simply adding the desired amount of water. The K-Express’s 42oz removable reservoir means you can brew multiple cups without refilling, a huge convenience factor. The K-Mini, on the other hand, requires you to add water for each brew, which, while ensuring freshness, can be a minor chore if you drink several cups a day. Both machines deliver fast and fresh coffee in minutes, so speed isn’t a distinguishing factor here.
Price/Value Analysis
Generally, the “Keurig Mini Plus” (K-Express) will be at a slightly higher price point than the “Keurig Mini Slim” (K-Mini), reflecting its added features like the larger reservoir and strong brew option. If budget is your absolute top priority and you only need the bare essentials, the K-Mini offers excellent value for its simplicity and space-saving design. However, if you can stretch your budget a little, the K-Express provides significant value through its enhanced convenience and customization options, potentially saving you time and offering a better tailored coffee experience in the long run.
Build Quality Comparison
Both brewers are primarily made of durable plastic, characteristic of Keurig’s more compact lines. The “Keurig Mini Plus” (K-Express) feels a bit more robust due to its larger footprint and integrated reservoir system. Its design feels sleek and modern, designed to be displayed. The “Keurig Mini Slim” (K-Mini) is incredibly minimalist and lightweight, reflecting its purpose as an ultra-compact device. It has a clever cord storage feature, which is a nice touch for keeping things tidy, and while it feels lighter, it’s still well-constructed for its size. Neither feels overtly “premium,” but both are built to withstand regular use.
User Experience Differences
The user experience with the “Keurig Mini Plus” (K-Express) is geared towards convenience and versatility. The multi-cup reservoir means less interaction before each brew, and the dedicated brew size buttons and strong brew option simplify customization. It also accommodates larger travel mugs more easily. The “Keurig Mini Slim” (K-Mini) offers a supremely simple, “add water, press button” experience. This can be great for those who value absolute simplicity and do not want any extra features. However, for a multi-cup drinker, the constant refilling can become tedious. The K-Mini’s small footprint and cord storage make it incredibly portable and excellent for decluttering.
Which Should You Choose?
Deciding between the “Keurig Mini Plus” (K-Express) and the “Keurig Mini Slim” (K-Mini) really comes down to your personal priorities for space, features, and convenience.
Choose the Keurig K-Express (the “Keurig Mini Plus”) if:
– You want the option for a stronger brew for a bolder cup of coffee.
– You prefer a larger water reservoir (42oz) so you don’t have to refill for every single cup. This is excellent for daily use or when you host a small gathering.
– You appreciate having preset brew sizes (8, 10, 12 oz.) for easy selection.
– You often brew into a travel mug for your commute or errands.
– You’re looking for a good balance between compact size and enhanced features for your kitchen counter or office.
Choose the Keurig K-Mini (the “Keurig Mini Slim”) if:
– Maximizing space is your absolute top priority; its less than 5-inch width is unbeatable for small kitchens, dorm rooms, or RVs.
– You are typically a one-cup-a-day brewer and don’t mind adding fresh water for each cup.
– You value simplicity above all else, with a straightforward “add water, press brew” operation.
– You’re on a tighter budget but still want reliable Keurig quality.
– You need a highly portable coffee maker, thanks to its compact size and cord storage.
Final Verdict: For most users seeking a modern, efficient, and slightly more versatile Keurig without a huge footprint, the Keurig K-Express (“Mini Plus”) offers a superior experience with its strong brew and multi-cup reservoir. However, if your space is truly at a premium and you prioritize ultimate compactness and simplicity, the Keurig K-Mini (“Mini Slim”) is an unmatched choice for a personal, single-serve brewer. Both are excellent at what they do; it’s simply a matter of aligning their strengths with your specific coffee habits and environment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the main difference between keurig mini plus vs slim?
A: The main difference lies in features and water reservoir capacity. The “Keurig Mini Plus” (K-Express) offers a 42oz multi-cup reservoir and a strong brew option, while the “Keurig Mini Slim” (K-Mini) has a single-cup reservoir, requiring a refill for each brew, and prioritizes extreme compactness.
Q: Can both the Keurig K-Express and K-Mini fit a travel mug?
A: Yes, both models can accommodate a travel mug. The Keurig K-Express has a removable drip tray that fits mugs up to 7.4” tall. The Keurig K-Mini also has a removable drip tray for travel mugs, though taller ones might be a very tight fit.
Q: Is the strong brew option available on the keurig mini plus vs slim?
A: The strong brew option is a feature exclusive to the “Keurig Mini Plus” (K-Express). The “Keurig Mini Slim” (K-Mini) does not offer this specific setting.
Q: Which Keurig is better for small spaces, the K-Express or the K-Mini?
A: The Keurig K-Mini (“Mini Slim”) is definitively better for small spaces, measuring less than 5 inches wide. While the K-Express is still compact, the K-Mini is designed for ultimate space-saving.
Q: How many cup sizes do these Keurigs offer?
A: The Keurig K-Express (“Mini Plus”) offers three preset brew sizes: 8, 10, or 12 oz. The Keurig K-Mini (“Mini Slim”) allows you to brew any cup size between 6-12 oz, as determined by the amount of water you pour into its one-cup reservoir.
Q: Do I need to clean the Keurig K-Express and K-Mini differently?
A: Both machines require similar basic cleaning, including descaling every few months and cleaning the drip tray. The K-Express’s removable reservoir makes general cleaning and refilling slightly easier compared to the K-Mini’s single-cup fill process.
Q: What’s the price difference when considering keurig mini plus vs slim?
A: Generally, the “Keurig Mini Plus” (K-Express) tends to be slightly more expensive than the “Keurig Mini Slim” (K-Mini) due to its additional features like the larger reservoir and strong brew option. The K-Mini is typically one of Keurig’s most budget-friendly models.
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