Keurig K-Select vs K-Elite: The Real Differences You Need to Know
Naila Syifa
Updated April 2025
Single-serve coffee makers have become increasingly popular in recent years, with Keurig being one of the leading brands in this space. The Keurig K-Select and K-Elite are two of their top models, each offering a unique set of features and capabilities.
In this comparison, we'll take an in-depth look at how these two coffee makers stack up against each other to help you decide which one is the best fit for your coffee needs.
Key Takeaways
The Keurig K-Select offers simple functionality and a lower price, while the K-Elite adds premium features like temperature control, Brew Over Ice, hot water on demand, and a larger water reservoir, making it ideal for those who want more brewing flexibility.
Keurig K-Select
Essential Coffee Maker
✓ 4 Cup Sizes
✓ 52 oz. Reservoir
✓ Strong Brew
✓ Travel Mug-Friendly
Keurig K-Elite
Premium Coffee Maker
✓ 5 Cup Sizes
✓ 75 oz. Reservoir
✓ Strength & Temperature Control
✓ Hot Water on Demand
Design
Keurig K-Elite
Both the K-Select and K-Elite have a similar layout design featuring a large open brewing area in the center, a drip tray at the bottom, and a control panel at the top.
One striking difference is their finish and material. K-Select has a matte plastic body, whereas the K-Elite features a more premium-looking brushed metal exterior.
Their drip tray design is also an important difference to note. The K-Select features a drip tray with a simple circular dotted pattern. The K-Elite's drip tray, meanwhile, looks more refined with a larger space, denser dot pattern, and a more structured look.
Despite the K-Select having a less premium appearance than the K-Elite, it has one small design feature that I love, which you may find useful as well – the water level window visible from the front angle. It makes it easy to keep track of your water level and refill it when needed.
Lastly, one design difference some people may care about is the color options available. The K-Select comes in 6 different colors, while the K-Elite only offers 3 color options.
K-Select: Matte Black, Matte White, Matte Navy, Vintage Red, Oasis, Sandstone
K-Elite: Brushed Silver, Brushed Slate, Brushed Gold
Controls
Keurig K-Select
Keurig K-Select features simple button controls on the top right of the machine, with 6 buttons arranged vertically, including a power button, a strong brew button, and 4 cup size selection buttons.
Keurig K-Elite takes a more modernized approach to controls, featuring a digital display panel at the top center of the machine with buttons surrounding the display. The display shows the clock and allows for adjustments of certain settings.
The K-Elite also has additional buttons that we don't find in the K-Select, such as Hot Water and Iced, which add more functionality and brewing flexibility. We'll touch on how these brewing features differ in the next section.
Brewing Features
Keurig K-Elite
When it comes to brewing flexibility, both the K-Select and K-Elite deliver fast, convenient coffee with thoughtful features. Both machines offer a Strong Brew option for a bolder cup, an auto-off function for energy savings, and Keurig’s Quiet Brew Technology for a quieter brewing experience.
Plus, both models can brew a fresh cup in under a minute and are compatible with hundreds of K-Cup pod varieties, as well as the Universal My K-Cup Reusable Coffee Filter if you prefer using your own ground coffee.
However, there are some key differences that set them apart. The K-Select comes with a 52 oz. water reservoir, while the K-Elite offers a larger 75 oz. reservoir.
In practical terms, that's roughly 5 cups versus 8 cups before needing a refill, giving the K-Elite a clear advantage for busier households or those who drink multiple cups a day.
Keurig K-Select
When it comes to cup sizes, the K-Select lets you choose from 6, 8, 10, or 12 oz. brews, while the K-Elite provides even more flexibility by adding a 4 oz. option—perfect for a smaller, stronger brew.
The K-Elite also packs in extra premium features not found on the K-Select. It allows you to control the brewing temperature to customize the heat of your coffee, offers a dedicated Hot Water button for soups or oatmeal, and includes a Brew Over Ice setting for refreshing iced coffee.
Additionally, the K-Elite comes with an Auto-On feature that can automatically power up the machine at a set time, making it even easier to start your day.
Keurig K-Select vs K-Elite
Final Thoughts
Keurig K-Elite
Both the Keurig K-Select and K-Elite are excellent choices for convenient, single-serve coffee brewing. The K-Select shines with its straightforward design, colorful options, and ease of use, making it great for casual coffee drinkers.
Meanwhile, the K-Elite stands out with its more sophisticated controls, premium finish, larger reservoir, and extra features like iced coffee brewing and hot water on demand—perfect for those who want more versatility from their coffee machine.
Your choice ultimately depends on whether you prefer simplicity or premium upgrades.
If you'd like to read more about Coffee Makers, check out our other relevant guides here:
Keurig K-Supreme vs K-Supreme Plus
Keurig K-Mini vs K-Express
Keurig K-Express vs K-Slim
Keurig K-Mini vs K-Slim
Keurig K-Classic vs K-Elite
Author
Naila Syifa
Naila has spent over 1,800 hours researching, exploring, and writing about the latest trends in technology, consumer electronics, and smart home gadgets.
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