In our Keurig K55 Classic review, we’ll be looking through its features and design and compare it to other Keurigs so you can make the most informed decision on your Keurig purchase. Coffee lovers can rejoice that if you’re looking for something that just gets the job done, you can have no worries picking the Classic.
Things to Know About the K55 Classic
The Keurig K55 K-Classic coffee maker converts ground coffee from K-Cup pods into that delicious nectar of the gods we call coffee. Being the most budget-friendly coffee machine of the Keurig coffee maker line, it remains a solid choice for coffee lovers just looking to get their morning fix without anything special extra.
I’m a big fan of a Keurig coffee maker just for the convenience of that single-serve pour of hot coffee without the hassle of dealing with measuring out almost-stale coffee grinds and over brewing a huge pot of coffee that takes five to ten minutes to finish.
What’s in the Box
- A Keurig single-serve coffee maker
Specs
- 48oz removable water reservoir
- 9 pounds
- Two colors: Black and Rhubarb
- 13.3 x 9.8 x 13 inches
Features of the Keurig K55 Classic Coffee Maker
Keurig K-Cups
The most significant benefit of a Keurig coffee maker is the K-Cup system. Simple, easy-to-use capsules of single-serve coffee replace your typical coffee grind brewing system by placing the filter and grinds all in one simple pod.
Keurig has K-Cup pods available with over 75 leading brands of coffee makers, including Starbucks, McDonald’s, Folgers, and Maxwell House coffee. There are a lot of options when it comes to K-cups. You can choose from bold, decaf, or flavored coffee brewed straight into the pod for a more unique experience. By putting pressure on the pod, the Keurig classic can brew a single cup of coffee in less than one minute.
Beyond making coffee faster, Keurig coffee makers are more convenient for a single person, as I’ve been frustrated many times measuring out the grinds and water for just a single cup of coffee with a traditional machine. Water gets stuck in the machinery at those low amounts, and while you can just pour boiling water through a filter and grinds, I’ve found that method unreliable in taste.
It’s also really convenient for forgetful people like me to buy lots of different pods and know that they won’t expire for a while. I’ve had many bags of coffee grinds go stale on me over the years, whereas coffee pods tend to last quite a bit longer.
The last important benefit is not having to deal with measuring out the water and coffee grinds for each cup. So, it’s faster, easier, and overall just more straightforward than the traditional method to use pods.
Controls and Cup-sizes
The K55 Classic has three size options available with a button for each on the top of the machine: 6, 8, and 10 oz. One common trick is using the smaller sizes to get a bold flavor from each pod, making all the sizes useful.
The 48 oz. water reservoir means you have about 5-6 cups of single-serve coffee per refill. This is quite a bit more convenient of a system than a traditional brewer because you don’t have to measure out the water for yourself every time. Instead, the coffee brewer just knows how much water to take from the reservoir when brewing each cup.
Unfortunately, there aren’t any temperature controls or a strong brew option. You’ll have to look into other models of a coffee machine to get those features.
There are also lights on the control panel that indicates whether you need to add water or descale the machine, and another light for whether it is heating the water.
It’s all fairly simple to understand and use all-around, which is great for a coffee maker of this type.
Learn more in our “How to Use a Keurig” post.
Other Features
The K55 Classic’s water reservoir is removable, which is convenient for refilling and cleaning. In addition, it is super easy to clean, as is the removable drip tray. Just pop both out and wash with soap and water before rinsing clean.
The coffee pod slot is located at the top of the machine and is opened and closed with an easy-to-use handle.
You also have the option of just getting hot water from the K55 by placing your cup as normal and running the machine without putting a pod in. In addition, the K55 does not use the Keurig 2.0 system, so you don’t need to scan each pod as you place them into the machine, meaning it can use unbranded pods as well.
You can also purchase the My-K-Cup Universal Reusable Coffee Filter as an accessory sold separately. This can device allows you to brew your own coffee beans if you wanted to use the Keurig machine. This is useful if you’re going to use local coffee beans from time to time without having to buy a separate coffee maker for them.
Benefits of the Keurig K55 Classic
We’ve already mentioned the benefits of Keurig K-Cups vs. the traditional method of brewing coffee. Compared to other Keurig coffee makers, the Keurig Classic has a minimum of features but is one of the most affordable options.
One of the significant benefits for some is the classic status, not 2.0. This means you can use any branded or non-branded K-Cups.
While it doesn’t have a strong brew option, you can use the smaller cup sizes to brew a more potent cup of coffee.
It’s hard to overestimate how much more convenient a Keurig is than the traditional brewing method for coffee lovers looking to get their morning fix fast and easy. Single-serve coffee makers allow you to make precisely one cup of coffee of different brew sizes quickly and easily.
Cleaning & Maintenance
Washing
For optimal performance, we recommend washing the removable parts of your Keurig every week.
- Unplug the machine and disassemble the water reservoir, lid, drip tray.
- Wash the tray and K-cup holder with soap and water.
- Wipe off the water reservoir and lid with a soapy cloth, then rinse it and let it dry completely.
- Restore all parts of the machine before plugging it back in.
To prevent clogging, you should also run a few water cycles to clean out the needle; see our post on How to Clean a Keurig Needle for more information. Keurig needle maintenance is key for making sure your Keurig functions properly
Descaling
You should descale your Keurig K-Select every six months to get rid of any hard water mineral build-up.
- Fill the water reservoir with half and half of water and white vinegar, or Keurig’s Descaling Solution.
- Run a brew cycle without a pod in the machine, which will run just the hot water. Use a coffee mug to collect the liquid.
- Repeat until the reservoir is drained into cups.
- Then, let the coffee machine rest for 30 minutes before emptying and rinsing the reservoir thoroughly to remove any leftover vinegar or descaling solution.
- Let it dry, then refill the water tank and use as normal.
See our post on How to Descale a Keurig for more information.
Pros and Cons of Keurig K55 Classic
Pros
- Fast and convenient coffee brewing
- K-cup pod system means long-lasting coffee grinds
- Budget-friendly
- 3 cup sizes
Cons
- K-cups can be environmentally unfriendly
- Some brands are not available as K-cups
- No temperature control
- No specialty beverages
Why choose Keurig K55 Classic over other coffee machines?
The K55 Classic is one of the most affordable options of Keurig outside the K-Mini and Mini Plus, which both only have a one-cup water reservoir. Depending on whether this difference is important to you, it is one of the best budget options amongst your choices for a coffee maker.
Many coffee makers in the Keurig line offer a greater variety of brew sizes, a strong brew option, and other special features, but these aren’t necessary for your average coffee drinker. Still, it’s something you should consider when deciding between them.
The differences between the Keurig single-serve coffee makers really come down to design, size, and additional features.
Who is the K55 Classic made for?
The Keurig K55 K-Classic coffee maker is best for single people, couples, and roommate situations where individuals are looking to make their own brew sizes and strengths of hot coffee. It’s one of the best affordable options for a single-serve with desired cup brew size of coffee.
The main downside is that it’s not great to brew large batches of coffee at once, and without the strong brew option, you can’t get the strongest brew. Still, it makes a great-tasting cup of coffee that’s great for simplifying any morning routine.
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Who should not buy the Keurig K55 Classic?
You won’t get a few options with the K55 Classic, such as no iced drinks, no specialty drinks, no larger brew options such as the K-Mug and K-Carafe, and no temperature control. For most people, these options would be seldom used anyways, but if they are what interests you, you’ll have to look at the other options.
You should also check if your favorite brand of coffee makes K-Cups before purchasing a Keurig. You can use the My-K-Cup accessory to get around this, but it isn’t the ideal use of a Keurig but rather a backup option.
Other Keurig options
Keurig K-Select Coffee Maker
The K-Select is just a minor upgrade on the K55 Classic, with a generally similar look but a 4th brew option, strong brew option, and a couple of other extra features. It is only slightly more expensive than the Classic.
To learn more, see our Keurig K-Select Coffee Maker review.
Keurig K-Elite Coffee Maker
The Keurig K-Elite has the option to brew iced coffee, has temperature controls, and has a larger reservoir than the K55 Classic. The overall design is also quite different. However, it is more expensive than the Classic.
To learn more, see our Keurig K-Elite Coffee Maker review.
Keurig K-Supreme Coffee Maker
The Keurig K-Supreme is similar to the Classic but with some fancier options included, such as the ability to make iced coffee and the choice of side to install the water reservoir. It’s a bit sleeker, smaller, and more expensive.
To learn more, see our Keurig K-Supreme Coffee Maker review.
Keurig K-Mini Plus Coffee Maker
The Keurig K-Mini Plus is a smaller machine that packs a big punch. It has a strong brew option and a few other solid features. Its main difference from the Keurig Classic is being smaller and having only a single-cup reservoir.
To learn more, see our Keurig K-Mini Plus Coffee Maker review.
Keurig K-Duo Coffee Maker
The Keurig K-Duo lets you brew regular grounded coffee into a carafe alongside the single K-cup option. For this feature, it is quite a bit more expensive than the Keurig Classic. It also features quite a few other bells and whistles, such as a strong brew option.
To learn more, see our Keurig K-Duo Coffee Maker review.
Keurig K155 Office Pro Commercial Coffee Maker
The Keurig K155 Office Pro has robust touchscreen controls and many more features than the Keurig K55, such as a larger water tank and the ability to drain it easily for transport. For these features, it is quite a bit more expensive.
To learn more, see our Keurig K155 Office Pro Commercial Coffee Maker review.
Keurig K-Cafe Special Edition
The Keurig K-Cafe Special Edition makes specialty drinks from K-Cups with a built-in milk frother for cappuccinos and lattes. Its sleek design and general special features are also considerably more complex but at the cost of being quite a bit more expensive than the K Classic.
To learn more, see our Keurig K-Cafe Special Edition review.
Keurig K55 Classic FAQ
Which is better Keurig Classic or Select?
The Keurig K55 Classic has fewer features than the K-Select, such as lacking a size option, a strong brew option, and a slightly smaller reservoir. The design between the two is somewhat different as well. The main benefit of the Classic is the more affordable price.
What is the difference between Keurig Classic and Elite?
The K-Elite has one smaller and one larger cup option available (the 4 oz. and the 12 oz. travel mug options), a strong brew option, temperature controls (from 187-192 degrees Fahrenheit), an iced coffee setting, plus a much larger water reservoir. Compared with the Classic, it costs quite a bit more but sports many unique features.
Also, keep in mind that the K-Elite has a sleeker and larger design overall, taking up more counter space.
Is Keurig K55 discontinued?
No, it is one of the few older models of Keurig still in production. Most newer Keurigs are part of the 2.0 line, meaning they use a scanner for each pod which has been surrounded by some controversy but has since been updated to be less restrictive.
Does the K55 Keurig have a filter?
No, the K55 does not have a built-in filter or water filter. However, you can use purified water to keep hard minerals at bay for longer.
How do I use my Keurig K55?
You’ll need K-Cups which you place into the top of the machine by popping it open with the built-in handle. Then, press the power button to turn it on and fill up the water reservoir. Next, place your desired cup onto the drip tray and then push the desired cup size button. You’ll have your coffee brewed and poured in less than a minute.
What model is the Keurig Classic?
The Keurig Classic is the K55 model. Sometimes the larger range of any non-2.0 Keurig is used to mean a Keurig Classic.
Does Keurig K55 have a water filter?
The Keurig K55 does not have a built-in water filter.
What is the Keurig classic series?
The classic series refers to Keurigs from the non-2.0 line. They lack some features and programmability that the 2.0 line has, but they’re also seen as a positive to some as they don’t have the scanner the 2.0 line does, which checks whether a coffee pod is Keurig brand.
Should I buy a Keurig K55 Classic coffee maker?
The Keurig Coffee Maker K55 is a solid choice for those looking to pick up a Keurig and go. It’s affordable, easy to use, and provides most of the needs you’ll want from a good coffee machine. You have to consider whether you’re willing to stick with coffee pods for your coffee drinking. They are very convenient but can be more expensive than some varieties of coffee grounds.
Compared with other Keurigs, it doesn’t have some of their special features. The trade-off between the K-Classic coffee maker and other Keurigs really comes down to affordability, size, and these features.
Overall Review of the Keurig K55 Classic Coffee Maker
The basic features of the Keurig K55 Classic are that it has a removable water reservoir with a 48 oz. capacity, a removable drip tray, and can pour three different sizes of coffee in less than a minute flat. So, if that’s what you are looking for, it’s a great coffee machine.
However, it’s missing a strong brew option, more sizes, and a water filter in terms of standard features. Also, it doesn’t have more advanced features like a touchscreen or temperature control.
The big draw is that it’s very affordable and easy to use. It’s also a classic Keurig, meaning you don’t have to deal with the Keurig 2.0 scanning. That makes it a kind of simple coffee maker that works.
The best part of any Keurig is the ability to make a single cup of coffee super fast, and the Classic is no exception. This is one of the best affordable options to go within the line, and if you don’t want to think about the features any further than that, just go for it.
