Skip to content

Keurig K-Brew+Chill Coffee Maker Review

compact coffee and iced

The Keurig K-Brew+Chill Coffee Maker quietly bridges the gap between convenience and indulgence, offering both hot and iced coffee in a single machine. I've found its QuickChill Technology impressive, but there's more to unpack—like how its MultiStream Technology enhances flavor or why the Strong Brew option might change your morning routine. While it's not without its quirks, the versatility and energy efficiency make it a compelling choice. If you're curious about whether it lives up to the hype or how it stacks up against other models, there's plenty to explore beyond the surface.

Key Takeaways

  • Flash-chills coffee in under 3 minutes with QuickChill Technology, preserving flavor and minimizing ice melt for café-quality iced coffee.
  • MultiStream Technology ensures even saturation for full-bodied, rich flavor in both hot and iced coffee, rivaling freshly brewed options.
  • Strong Brew option intensifies flavor with extended extraction, ideal for darker roasts and customizable for bold, robust cups.
  • Compatible with any K-Cup pod for hot and iced beverages, but reusable pods only work for hot brewing.
  • Durable build with a 70oz reservoir, compact design, and 4.4-star rating, though plastic exterior scratches easily and fan noise is noted.

##

The Keurig K-Brew+Chill Coffee Maker stands out with its innovative QuickChill Technology, which flash-chills coffee after brewing, delivering a cold beverage in three minutes or less. I appreciate its energy efficiency, as it uses water in the chill tank to cool coffee, requiring refilling only once a year, which minimizes energy consumption compared to traditional iced coffee makers. Maintenance tips are straightforward: the auto-rinse feature guarantees cleanliness after each brew, and the removable 70oz reservoir makes refilling and cleaning hassle-free. However, I've noticed that using filtered water is essential to prevent mineral buildup, extending the machine's lifespan. While the cooling fan can be noisy, it's quieter than some competitors, like the GE Opal Ice Maker. Overall, its balance of efficiency and ease of maintenance makes it a practical choice for daily use.

Features and Benefits

The Keurig K-Brew+Chill stands out with its QuickChill Technology, which flash-chills coffee in under three minutes, preserving flavor while minimizing ice melt. Its MultiStream Technology guarantees even saturation of grounds, delivering consistent aroma and taste across both hot and cold brews. I appreciate the Strong Brew option for intensifying flavor and the flexibility to use any K-Cup pod, eliminating the need for specialized iced coffee pods.

Quickchill Technology Flash-Chills Coffee

When you're craving iced coffee but don't want to wait or deal with watered-down results, the Keurig K-Brew+Chill's QuickChill Technology delivers. This feature flash-chills coffee in 3 minutes or less, ensuring an invigoratingly cold drink without compromising flavor. The rapid cooling process minimizes ice melt, so your coffee stays robust and undiluted. Unlike traditional methods that rely on ice cubes, the system uses precise temperature control to achieve a consistent chill, rivaling the quality of coffee shop iced beverages. It's a game-changer for those who value convenience and quality, as it eliminates the need for pre-brewing and refrigerating. Compared to other at-home iced coffee makers, the QuickChill Technology stands out for its speed and ability to maintain the coffee's integrity.

MultiStream Technology Enhances Flavor

Building on the efficiency of QuickChill Technology, MultiStream Technology guarantees every cup of coffee, whether hot or iced, is packed with full flavor and aroma. This feature works by saturating the coffee grounds evenly, securing peak flavor extraction and aroma enhancement. Unlike traditional single-stream systems, MultiStream Technology distributes water through multiple streams, which prevents under-extraction and delivers a consistently rich taste. I've noticed that this method enhances the depth of the coffee's profile, making it comparable to freshly brewed options from coffee shops. Whether I'm brewing a hot cup or an iced one, the technology secures the coffee's natural notes shine through. It's a standout feature that elevates the overall brewing experience, making each sip more satisfying and aromatic.

Strong Brew Option Intensifies Flavor

If you're craving a bolder, more intense coffee experience, the Strong Brew Option on the Keurig K-Brew+Chill delivers exactly that. This feature enhances flavor intensity by extending the brew time, allowing water to extract more from the grounds. Compared to standard brewing, it produces a richer, more robust cup without compromising the coffee's natural aroma. The brew customization is seamless—just press the Strong Brew button before selecting your cup size. Whether you're brewing hot or iced coffee, the option guarantees a consistently bold flavor profile. It's particularly effective for darker roasts, amplifying their depth and complexity. While some single-serve brewers lack this level of customization, the K-Brew+Chill's Strong Brew Option sets it apart, catering to those who prioritize a more pronounced coffee experience.

Works With Any K-Cup Pod

With its ability to work with any K-Cup pod, the Keurig K-Brew+Chill eliminates the need for specialized iced coffee pods, offering flexibility and convenience. This pod compatibility guarantees I can use my favorite blends, whether hot or iced, without limitations. The brewing versatility stands out, as it handles both hot and cold beverages seamlessly, adapting to my preferences throughout the day. Unlike other machines that restrict me to specific pods for iced coffee, this feature simplifies my routine and reduces clutter. However, it's worth noting that mesh or cupless pods and the current My K-Cup Universal Reusable Filter only work for hot brewing, which slightly limits its versatility for eco-conscious users. Overall, this feature enhances the machine's practicality and appeal.

Product Quality

While the Keurig K-Brew+Chill delivers on its promise of quick-chilled coffee, its overall product quality reflects a mix of innovative engineering and minor compromises. The build materials feel sturdy, with a mix of durable plastics and metal components that suggest it can withstand regular use. However, durability testing reveals some areas where it falls short, such as the removable reservoir's handle, which feels less robust than expected. The front-facing design is convenient, but the plastic exterior scratches easily, detracting from its premium appearance. Compared to other Keurig models, the K-Brew+Chill's construction is solid but not exceptional. While it handles daily brewing well, the occasional creak or flex in certain parts hints at cost-saving measures in its design. Overall, it's functional but not flawless.

What It's Used For

The Keurig K-Brew+Chill excels at brewing hot coffee with its MultiStream Technology, ensuring even saturation for rich flavor and aroma. It also stands out for making iced coffee, using QuickChill Technology to flash-chill brews in under three minutes, rivaling coffee shop quality. With the Strong Brew option, I can customize the intensity of both hot and iced beverages, offering flexibility for different preferences.

Brewing Hot Coffee

When brewing hot coffee, the Keurig K-Brew+Chill excels in delivering consistent, flavorful results thanks to its MultiStream Technology, which secures even saturation of coffee grounds for a full-bodied cup every time. The machine offers four hot brew settings—6, 8, 10, and 12oz—allowing me to customize the size based on my preference. While it lacks advanced temperature control options, the default brewing temperature secures a hot, satisfying cup without scalding the coffee. The Strong Brew option enhances the flavor intensity, making it ideal for those who prefer a bolder taste. Compared to other Keurig models, the K-Brew+Chill's MultiStream Technology stands out, securing a richer aroma and more balanced extraction, even with standard K-Cup pods. It's a reliable choice for hot coffee enthusiasts.

Making Iced Coffee

One standout feature of the Keurig K-Brew+Chill is its ability to make iced coffee as cold as what you'd get at a coffee shop, thanks to its QuickChill Technology. This system flash-chills brewed coffee in under three minutes, delivering a revitalizingly cold drink with minimal ice melt and full flavor. Unlike traditional cold brewing, which takes hours, this method is quick and convenient, perfect for experimenting with iced recipes. I appreciate that it works with any K-Cup pod, so I don't need specific iced coffee pods. The MultiStream Technology guarantees even saturation, so the flavor remains robust even when chilled. While it's not a true cold brewing system, the results are impressively close, making it a great option for those who crave iced coffee without the wait.

Customizing Brew Strength

Customizing brew strength on the Keurig K-Brew+Chill lets you tailor your coffee to match your taste preferences, whether you're brewing hot or iced. The Strong Brew option is a standout feature, allowing for a more intense flavor by adjusting the extraction process. This brew customization is particularly useful when using lighter roasts or when you want a bolder cup without changing the pod. Compared to standard brewing, the strength adjustment slows the flow rate, ensuring the grounds are saturated longer for richer results. I've found it works equally well for both hot and iced beverages, though the flavor difference is more pronounced in iced coffee. It's a simple yet effective way to elevate your coffee experience without needing specialty pods.

Product Specifications

The Keurig K-Brew+Chill stands out with its impressive blend of advanced technology and practical design. It offers four brew sizes—6, 8, 10, and 12oz—for both hot and iced beverages, catering to a variety of preferences. The 70oz water reservoir is front-facing and removable, making refills convenient. Its QuickChill Technology guarantees iced coffee is ready in minutes, while MultiStream Technology enhances flavor extraction. Here's a quick breakdown of its key specs:

FeatureSpecificationDetails
Brew Sizes6, 8, 10, 12ozHot and iced options
Water Reservoir70ozRemovable, front-facing
Dimensions15.36D x 9.8W x 12.41H inCompact yet functional
Weight17.26 lbsSturdy build

This combination of features makes it a versatile choice for coffee enthusiasts.

Who Needs This

If you're someone who craves both hot and iced coffee at home but doesn't want to juggle multiple appliances, the Keurig K-Brew+Chill is designed for you. Coffee enthusiasts who value convenience and versatility will appreciate its ability to brew hot coffee and flash-chill iced coffee in one machine. Home baristas looking to replicate café-quality iced coffee without the hassle of ice dilution or separate brewing systems will find this particularly appealing. Its MultiStream Technology guarantees full flavor extraction, while the Strong Brew option caters to those who prefer a bolder taste. With a 70oz reservoir and compatibility with any K-Cup pod, it's ideal for households with varying coffee preferences. If you prioritize efficiency and quality in your coffee routine, this machine is a solid investment.

Pros

For coffee lovers seeking versatility, the Keurig K-Brew+Chill stands out with its ability to brew both hot and iced coffee seamlessly. Its QuickChill Technology guarantees iced coffee is ready in just 3 minutes, maintaining robust flavor with minimal ice melt. The MultiStream Technology ensures even saturation for a full-bodied taste in every cup. Here are three standout pros:

  1. Fast Brewing: Whether hot or iced, the machine delivers coffee quickly, perfect for busy mornings or impromptu gatherings.
  2. Easy Cleaning: The auto-rinse feature and removable 70oz reservoir simplify maintenance, making it hassle-free to keep the machine in top shape.
  3. Versatility: It works with any K-Cup pod and offers four brew sizes, catering to different preferences without needing specialized pods.

This combination of speed, convenience, and adaptability makes it a strong contender for any coffee enthusiast.

Cons

Despite its impressive features, the Keurig K-Brew+Chill has some drawbacks worth considering. Here are the key cons I've observed:

  1. Noise Levels: The cooling fan, while quieter than some competitors, is still noticeable during operation. It's not overly disruptive, but if you're sensitive to noise, it might be a minor annoyance.
  2. Warranty Limitations: The warranty is only available upon request, which feels restrictive compared to other brands that offer standard coverage. This lack of transparency could be a concern for long-term reliability.
  3. Pod Compatibility: While it works with most K-Cup pods, mesh or cupless pods and the current My K-Cup Universal Reusable Filter aren't compatible for iced beverages, limiting flexibility for eco-conscious users.

These issues, while not deal-breakers, are worth weighing before purchasing.

What Customers Are Saying

Many customers have praised the Keurig K-Brew+Chill for its innovative QuickChill Technology, which delivers iced coffee at a temperature comparable to coffee shops in just three minutes. User feedback highlights high customer satisfaction with the convenience and quality of both hot and iced coffee, noting the MultiStream Technology guarantees full flavor extraction. Some users initially found the iced coffee quality underwhelming but reported improvement after adjusting brew settings or using stronger K-Cup pods. The fan noise during cooling is mentioned, though most consider it manageable. A few customers expressed a desire for additional features, like an espresso option, but overall, the majority appreciate its versatility and performance. The 4.4-star rating reflects a strong endorsement from users who value its dual functionality and consistent results.

Overall Value

The Keurig K-Brew+Chill offers a compelling value proposition for coffee enthusiasts seeking both hot and iced beverage options in a single machine. Its cost efficiency shines through its ability to brew high-quality iced coffee without requiring specialized pods, saving users from additional expenses. The QuickChill Technology guarantees minimal ice melt, preserving flavor and reducing the need for extra ice over time. While the upfront cost is higher than standard Keurig models, the long-term savings become apparent when compared to frequent coffee shop visits. The machine's versatility, combined with its energy-efficient design, makes it a worthwhile investment for those who value convenience and quality. For households that enjoy both hot and cold beverages, the K-Brew+Chill delivers exceptional value.

Tips and Tricks For Best Results

To get the most out of your Keurig K-Brew+Chill, it's important to understand how its features work together for peak performance. Start by using filtered water, as water quality directly impacts flavor and machine longevity. Tap or distilled water isn't recommended, as it can affect brewing temperature and taste. For iced coffee, make sure the chill tank is charged for at least 6 hours to maintain the best cooling efficiency. When brewing, select the Strong Brew option for a more robust flavor, especially with lighter roasts. Pay attention to brewing temperature—hot coffee should be brewed at the default setting, while iced coffee benefits from the QuickChill Technology, which preserves flavor without excessive ice melt. Experiment with different K-Cup pods to find your preferred balance of strength and aroma.

Conclusion

Is the Keurig K-Brew+Chill worth the investment for coffee enthusiasts? After testing its features, my final thoughts are mixed but leaning positive. The QuickChill Technology delivers cold coffee in minutes, rivaling café quality, and the MultiStream Technology guarantees consistent flavor. However, the initial charge time and fan noise can be drawbacks. The overall impression is that it excels in convenience and versatility, offering both hot and iced options with minimal effort. While it's pricier than standard Keurig models, its unique iced coffee capabilities justify the cost for those who crave cold brews at home. Still, it's not perfect—compatibility with reusable pods is limited, and some users may find the noise intrusive. For iced coffee lovers, it's a solid choice.

Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.