I don’t typically write reviews, especially for something as trivial as a coffee maker, but this was an interesting journey. I had an ancient, by comparison, Keurig B55 that most resembles the “Classic” model they offer currently. Probably going on 11 years, it finally died. Up until that point, this portion of my counter was basically a coffee station, forcing me to do all my kitchen prep to the right of the stove, keeping the shrine to caffeine unadulterated. I was stunned at all the variants of the Keurig line. It’s almost dizzying and makes it nearly impossible to choose one. Some quick googling showed 60 models, most of which are still sold. Do I need 5 cup sizes (5oz – 14oz)? How about a “strong” setting? Does it do anything? A screen? Or a timer? Or a larger reservoir? What about no reservoir? Seriously, the paradox of choice here is maddening. Having come from a “screened” maker in my previous model, I ended up opting for the K200 model. This one is about 3″ less wide that my previous maker, so that was nice. Unfortunately, it had a few issues that I simply could not work around. – The reservoir is U-shaped and honestly very awkward to negotiate both from a refilling and removing perspective. Especially if it’s under a cabinet, and you want to refill from a refrigerator water dispenser, as I do. – The coffee was simply not hot enough. Not sure if I got a bum unit, or that’s how it is, but it was significantly less hot than what I was used to. – No auto shut-off. Seriously. I thought this was a basic in coffee makers. This, probably the biggest deal-breaker of them all, though, mildly hot coffee was a close second. Enter the K-Slim. I was skeptical because the reviews were, pun intended, no so hot. But the price was right, and I really liked the idea of a sub five-inch width coffee maker on my countertop. This model only has 3 cup sizes, but has the same 40oz reservoir as the K200. Even better, it’s a simple rectangle design that I can maneuver easily to and fro my fridge. Having the extra counter space has been such a nice benefit. But moreso, the coffee is hot and, so far, the machine reliable. What I like: – The coffee (Caza Trail Cona Blend) is as hot and tastes as good, possibly even stronger, than my old model – Auto Shut-Off! Unit turns off after 5 minutes of last brew. That might seem aggressive but… – Really fast water heat-up time. I was really amazed. From off to coff(ee) was only a minute or two, obviating the need for a clock/timer function. – Easy/obvious to use, and I really like the “level” drop in hole for the k-cup. All my others were at an angle for some reason. – Amazingly diminutive size for the countertop reclaim. What I don’t like: – Maybe one smaller cup size? But that’s it. Really happy so far with this unit. Hoping it lasts me as long as the last one did.
