Tassimo Versus Keurig: A Comparison

The popularity of single-serve coffee makers has taken off in the last few years. Easy to brew and easy to clean, models by Keurig and Tassimo line the shelves of most popular department stores. What are the differences between these two single cup coffee makers?

Comparing Keurig and Tassimo

The most obvious difference between coffee makers from Keurig and Tassimo is that the Tassimo brewers tend to be more expensive. The suggested retail prices for Tassimo's line of coffee makers runs from $129.99 to $199.99, while comparable models from Keurig list from $89.95 to $169.95.

The Tassimo does give coffee drinkers some advantages for the extra cost. Fans of frothy coffee drinks, like espressos and lattes, are out of the luck with the Keurig models, as the Tassimo brewers can only make those specialized drinks. The Keurig does offer a milk frother as an accessory, but it still is an extra manual process.

K-Cups and T-Discs: Single Cup Brewers

Beyond the basic fact that a coffee fan will pay more for a Tassimo if they want to make lattes and espressos, there isn't much that separates Keurig and Tassimo. Both makers brew quality coffees, in addition to other hot drinks like tea and hot chocolate.

Another difference, however, are the actual coffee brands available in the single serve K-Cup (Keurig) and T-Disc (Tassimo) formats. In most cases, there are exclusive contracts between a coffee brand and one of the two brewer manufacturers. Starbucks fans, for instance, can only find their favorite brews on a Tassimo T-Disc, while Newman's Own is only available in a K-Cup format.

Paying More for a Latte?

So ultimately choosing between Keurig and Tassimo comes down to a choice of paying extra for the ability to make lattes, espressos, and cappuccinos. Another reason would be a strong preference for one brand of coffee only available in either K-Cup or T-Disc format. Starbucks addicts take note!

Both brands of coffee makers are well manufactured and feature the latest in micro-processor controlled brewing technology. Either a Keurig or Tassimo makes a great gift and looks sharp on a kitchen counter. Choosing between the two comes down to whether or not to pay about $50 extra to be able to make a latte.