The K-Duo is a powerful coffee machine. With this one product, you can choose to make single-serve coffee or use the carafe to make a pot of coffee. This allows you to use either ground coffee or K-Cup Pods to make the perfect cup of joe. Unlike other coffee machines that just make one style of coffee, options abound with the K-Duo.
This Keurig Duo review will explain some of the key features and benefits of the machine, discuss the pros and cons of the K-Duo, and compare it to other Keurigs on the market. The review will conclude with a list of frequently asked questions and will help you decide if this dual coffee maker is right for you.
Things to Know About the Keurig K-Duo
What’s in the Box
- Coffee machine
- Glass carafe
Specs
- Cord Length – 30 inches
- Reservoir Size – 60 ounces
- Weight – 9.71 pounds
- Dimensions – 12.92” tall (17.63” with the handle open) x 10.94” wide x 12.76” deep
Features of the Keurig K-Duo Coffee Maker
As you consider whether the Keurig K-Duo Coffee Maker is the right purchase for you, let’s look at a few features of the machine to help you determine if it is worth the money.
Design
The K-Duo has a 12 cup glass carafe and a hot plate on the left side of the machine. The single-serve dispenser is on the right side. The K-Duo has a black exterior with silver accents on the base and lid. The K-Duo Special Edition has more silver finishes accented with black. The unit is bigger than many Keurig models because it offers side-by-side dual functions.
Water Reservoir
The water reservoir holds 60 ounces of water. Both the carafe and single-serve coffee maker share a large water reserve, meaning that you do not have to fill a separate reservoir based on the type of coffee you prefer to make. The brew water holder can easily be removed, which makes refilling it easy. The removable reservoir feature sets this model apart from other Keurig machines.
Ease of Use
The K-Duo offers Simple Button Controls that Keurig machines are known for. Operating the machine is very user-friendly, with descriptive pictures on the buttons to help you easily operate the coffee maker.
Brewing Features
This Keurig offers the Strong Brew feature. With the push of a button, you can brew a stronger single cup of coffee that has a more intense taste.
Cup Sizes
For single-cup brewing, choose between 6, 8, 10, and 12-ounce cups. For carafe brewing, choose between 6, 8, 10, and 12 cups. The Keurig K-Duo is also travel mug compatible. The unit will accommodate travel mugs that are 7 inches tall or less.
Supplies Needed
If you are seeking to make drip coffee in the carafe, you will need ground coffee. The single-serve uses K Cup pods. You cannot use K-Carafe pods, K-Mug pods, Vue pods, or Rivo pods in this machine.
If you are using coffee grounds, you will need either a paper filter or a reusable coffee filter for the filter basket. You can use the K-Cup Universal Reusable Coffee Filter if you want to brew your own ground coffee.
Related: How to Use a Reusable K Cup: Step by Step Instructions with Images
Programming
You can program the coffee maker to automatically brew a pot of coffee. This can be scheduled up to 24 hours ahead of time, which is perfect for scheduling your morning cup of coffee. You cannot program the single-serve side of the machine as you have to enter a pod for single-cup brewing.
Pause & Pour Function
If you are preparing a pot of coffee but cannot wait to enjoy a cup, use the Pause & Pour function. This will pause the coffee maker mid-brew for 20 seconds and allow you to pour a cup of coffee from the carafe before it resumes brewing.
Benefits of the Keurig K-Duo
The main benefit of the K-Duo is that it combines a carafe coffee maker with a single-serve coffee maker. Instead of needing to buy and store two machines, this one machine can handle both. The result is less money spent and saving on kitchen counter space as well. Keurig is best known for single-serve brewing, so the addition of the carafe for making drip coffee is an added bonus.
The K-Duo is also energy efficient and offers an auto-off feature for the brewer and heating plate. The brewer will automatically turn off 5 minutes after the last single cup was brewed. The heating plate for the carafe will turn off 2 hours after the last carafe brewing was completed.
Cleaning & Maintenance
It is important to descale your machine regularly in order to maintain the inside of the coffee maker. Descaling involves using a descaling solution and running it through the machine in the same way that water typically goes through it. The purpose of this process is to remove any build-up that has accumulated on the inside of the coffee maker. You can learn more about how to descale your machine properly by reading our how to descale a Keurig when the Keurig descale light comes on.
In addition to regularly descaling your machine, you will also need to clean the Keurig Needle. The needle is where the coffee is dispensed. You can learn more about how to keep the needle clean by referencing our How to Clean a Keurig Needle post.
Pros and Cons of K-Duo
Pros
- Strong Brew feature – this allows you to brew a stronger cup of coffee with more intense flavor with just a push of a button
- Multiple brew sizes are available – choose the size that is right for your coffee needs
- Programmable – you can set the carafe to auto-brew at a desired time
- Simple button controls – Regardless of whether you want a pot of coffee or just a single cup, using the K-Duo is easy. All you have to do is insert a K-Cup pod or ground coffee and use the button controls on the top to brew a delicious beverage.
Cons
- Some customers have reported problems with the carafe leaking
- Some users have trouble brewing a full 12 cups of coffee in the carafe. It seems that some machines will cut off at 10 or 11 cups.
- There are some reports of the unit not working after a year or so of use
- The size may be too bulky for some kitchens
Who is the Keurig Duo Best Suited For?
The Keurig K-Duo is best suited for people who like options when it comes to the type of coffee they drink. Unlike single-function coffee makers, this versatile machine can make a single cup or an entire pot. Dual coffee makers are unique, and the Duo is different from other Keurig models. If you do not want to drink the same thing each day, check out the Keurig Duo.
Similarly, if you like hosting family or friends and want to offer your guests a variety of beverages, this machine can handle it. The K Cup pods are not limited to just coffee. You can also enjoy other beverages like hot chocolate or hot apple cider based on the pod chosen.
Other Keurig options
You may be wondering how the K-Duo stacks up to other Keurig models. Below, we will compare the K-Duo to six other Keurigs.
Keurig K-Select Coffee Maker
The K-Select does not allow you to make drip coffee. Instead, it can only be used to make single-serve coffee. The K-Select has a 52-ounce removable water reservoir. The K-Select comes in a variety of colors, including black, red, white, navy, and more, so if you are looking for a pop of color to add to your kitchen, the K-Select has more color options than the Duo.
The Duo is about an inch and a half wider than the K-Select and offers a display screen and digital clock. The K-Duo is more expensive than the K-Select, but it can be used to make multiple types of coffee. If you do not need to make drip coffee, the K-Select is a better option. To learn more, see our Keurig K-Select Coffee Maker review.
Keurig K-Supreme Plus Coffee Maker
The K-Supreme Plus model is similarly priced as the K-Duo; however, there are some key differences between the two units. The K-Supreme Plus can make single-serve coffee in 4-ounce cups in addition to the 6, 8, 10, and 12-ounce cups that either machine can make.
You cannot make drip coffee from the K-Supreme Plus. If you want to control the temperature during the brewing process, the K-Supreme Plus allows you to do that. It also offered an iced setting and the ability to control the strength of coffee.
The K-Supreme Plus has a 78-ounce removable water reservoir, as compared to the 60-ounce reservoir on the K-Duo. The K-Supreme Plus is silver, so if the color of the unit makes a difference for you, this is important to keep in mind.
The K-Duo offers a display screen, whereas the K-Supreme Plus has button controls. The K-Supreme Plus is 2.5 inches narrower than the K-Duo. If you want to utilize the MultiStream Technology, the K-Supreme Plus offers that option. To learn more, see our Keurig K-Supreme Plus review.
Keurig K-Mini Plus Coffee Maker
Short on space and prefer to just make single-serve coffee? Check out the K-Mini Plus. It is only 4.5” wide, less than half the width of the K-Duo, and costs about half as much. Due to its compact design, you will have to add water each time to the removable water reservoir.
The K-Mini Plus comes in more color options, including black, red, teal, and gray. Its simple design means that there is no display screen or clock, but this tiny machine can brew a great cup of coffee using coffee pods. To learn more, see our Keurig K-Mini Plus Coffee Maker review.
Keurig K-Classic Coffee Maker
The K-Classic allows you to make 6, 8, or 10-ounce cups of single-serve coffee. It fits a travel mug and offers a 48-ounce removable water reservoir. The K-Classic does not have a display screen or digital clock. It is slightly narrower than the K-Duo (approximately 1-inch difference).
The K-Classic is cheaper than the K-Duo, but can only be used to make single-serve drinks.
To learn more, see our Keurig K-Classic Coffee Maker review.
Keurig K-Supreme Coffee Maker
The K-Supreme cannot make drip coffee, but it does offer an iced setting for enjoying your favorite iced coffees. The K-Supreme has an impressive 66-ounce water reservoir that can be placed on the side of the machine or at the back. It also can be set to automatically come on and is available in black and gray.
The K-Supreme does not have a display screen; instead, button controls are used. The K-Supreme also utilized MultiStream Technology, something not available on the K-Duo.
To learn more, see our Keurig K-Supreme Coffee Maker review.
Keurig K-Cafe Special Edition Single-Serve K-Cup Pod Coffee
If you enjoy fancy coffee drinks, the K-Cafe Special Edition is worth checking out. While you cannot make drip coffee with it, you can make lattes or cappuccinos with the milk frother and 2-ounce coffee shot. The K-Cafe comes in nickel while the K-Duo is black. The K-Cafe does not have a display screen or digital clock.
The machine is about 4 inches wider than the K-Duo, so be sure to measure your counter space to ensure the machine will comfortably fit. Buying the K-Cafe will cost a little more than the K-Duo, but when you consider the cost of the fancy drinks at your local coffee shop, you can easily recoup the money spent on the coffee machine.
To learn more, see our Keurig K-Cafe Special Edition Single-Serve K-Cup Pod Coffee review.
Keurig K-Duo FAQ
Is Keurig K-duo worth it?
Yes! If you like having options between drip coffee and single-serve coffee, the K-Duo is an innovative option to consider. Buying one machine that can brew both types is a better option than having to buy two different machines. In considering whether this purchase is worth it to you, consider your coffee consumption. Will you drink a whole pot of coffee?
If you do not need a full carafe, the ability to determine how many cups you want and to brew 6, 8, 10, or 12 cups can help prevent waste. Similarly, brewing just a single cup of coffee can cut down on excess production as well. Keep in mind that if you plan to use both sides of this machine regularly, you will need to keep both K cups and ground coffee on hand.
What is the Keurig Duo Warranty?
Keurig products are backed by a one-year warranty. This warranty is protection against defects in materials or workmanship if your Keurig is used in normal home use. It is in effect for one year from the date you purchased the machine.
Be sure to register your product online so that you have a record of when you bought it in case you encounter any issues with the product.
What is the difference between the Keurig duo and the duo plus?
Design-wise, there is a big difference between the Duo and the Duo Plus. The Keurig K-Duo Plus is much skinnier and utilizes a compact design where the carafe is beneath the single-serve dispenser.
The Duo is nearly 11 inches wide, while the Duo Plus is a little over 8 inches wide. The Duo Plus also has a stainless steel thermal carafe. A gold-tone mesh filter and water filter kit are included with the K-Duo Plus as well. If you are concerned about space or prefer a different aesthetic, check out the Keurig K-Duo Plus.
How is the Keurig duo?
As far as coffee makers go, the Keurig Duo is unique. Most coffee makers only allow you to make a single type of coffee. However, this one gives you options. It is great for personal use or for making coffee for a group of people by brewing an entire carafe. The heat plate will keep the carafe warm for up to two hours after the coffee is brewed.
What are the issues with the Keurig Duo?
Based on some reviews, there may be some issues with the Keurig Duo. Some users have found that their unit does not brew coffee consistently. In addition, sometimes the coffee overflows and fills the drip tray or spills onto the counter. Most of the problems reported seem to be with the drip coffee side of the machine.
The Keurig is backed by a one-year warranty, so be sure to register your purchase in case you encounter any issues. Some users report preferring to use other coffee makers or a basic coffee pot, even cheap ones, to brew regular coffee. This is unfortunate given the cost of the unit and the expectation that a Keurig will last longer than cheaper competitors’ products.
Is Keurig K-Duo worth the money?
If you want a Keurig machine that can be used to make single-serve coffee or drip coffee, this is a great option. The carafe side allows for control over the type of ground coffee used and how much is brewed. You do not have to brew a full pot if you do not want to.
If you prefer a single cup, this machine can do that too. This will help save you money by reducing coffee waste. If you plan to regularly make both types of coffee, this machine would be worth the money. If you only occasionally use one side or the other, you may find that buying the two-in-one machine was not worth it.
Overall Review of the Keurig K-Duo
The Keurig K-Duo is not like a normal coffee pot. It offers both a carafe side and single-serve brewing. You can choose your brew size with this machine regardless of whether you are preparing drip coffee from coffee grounds or a single-serve cup of joe using K cups. K cup pods are easy to use and give you a plethora of beverage options depending on your palate.
If you want more coffee, brewing a pot of coffee may be more beneficial to you. The machine does include the Strong Brew feature if you need an intense single cup of coffee to get you going in the morning or to combat the afternoon slump. The versatility of the machine is certainly a compelling feature.
If you want coffee waiting for you in the morning, you will need to choose drip coffee. Auto brewing only applies to the carafe side of the machine. The glass carafe with a warming plate is a nice feature of this coffee machine. I also like the Pause & Pour Function. That is a great feature for those mornings when you are running behind or just cannot wait for the whole pot to finish brewing before pouring yourself a cup of coffee.
The water reservoir is a nice size. I like that it does not have to be refilled each time you want to make some coffee. The removable feature is also helpful and a perk of this machine.
This Keurig Duo review aimed to help you decide if this is the right purchase for you based on your coffee consumption habits. Be sure to confirm you have sufficient space in your kitchen for the machine, as it is larger than many other Keurig models. You do not have many design choices with this model, but if you want one machine that can make both kinds of coffee, this is worth considering.
Want the Best Keurig Coffee Maker?
We’ve reviewed all of the current Keurig coffee makers, so we know a thing or two about Keurig. Here are all the different models reviewed for your reading pleasure plus the best Keurig coffee maker.
