Question 1

What are the differences between K-Elite vs K575?

Accepted Answer

I own both of he machines you're asking about.  Differences are:  The K575 is a "Keurig 2.0" machine, so it uses an optical detector to prevent you from using non-licensed k-cups. The K575 has a larger reservoir. The K575 has the ability to us the Keurig carafe, as well as the larger pods (which sounds like an advantage, but good luck finding those larger k-cup pods anywhere except the web).  The K575 has a color digital display.

The K-Elite has a high-altitude brew setting, is a much simpler machine, and seems to be built rock-solid.

Of the two machines, I much prefer the K-Elite.  It is smaller and a little more quiet than the K575.  Plus without the DRM stuff it's simpler internally.  In my opinion it is probably the best Keurig machine for home use built to date. And if you shop around you may be able to buy this unit for as low as $125, much less than I've ever seen the K575.

Question 2

Will the k-elite machine accept non-branded (not marked keurig) k-cups, and make coffee using these generic non-branded k-cups?

Accepted Answer

Yes!  This new Keurig machine is not a "2.0" Keurig.  It does not have any DRM to prevent you from using whatever k-cup you desire.  This machine is very reminiscent of the older Breville BKC700XL machine, except it provides separate button for each cup size plus it has options for "iced coffee", strong brew, and high-altitude brew.

Question 3

Not touchscreen? Why the step back?

Accepted Answer

It's really not needed.  I own a K575, which has a touch screen, and I think that this is much simpler.  Plus no touchscreen to dirty up with fingerprints.  This machine is simpler, and I believe that's one of its selling points.  Should one really need to be choose a wallpaper for the screen of their coffee maker too?

On the other hand, if you want to be able to tell the time by looking at your coffee maker, something you can easily do with several of the Keurig 2.0 machines, though the K-Elite has a digital time display, it can only be viewed by looking down on the machine from above.  So if that's important to you this machine might not be a good choice.

Question 4

Can this be set to brew a cup when it is set to turn on in the morning?? So the cup of coffee is ready and warm when I get out of bed in the morning??

Accepted Answer

Smart Start heats then brews in one simple process. No need to wait for the brewer to heat before selecting brew size. Power on your brewer, add coffee, then select your brew size. The brewer will heat, then automatically begin brewing.
Clock allows you to set an Auto On time.  Unit only takes 45 seconds or less to heat up, and I brew one cup only, so I never use Auto On (timer).
If this unit is on and warm, it takes about 60 seconds to brew a cup of coffee. 
Having this brew the coffee before you are up and ready to drink it is a waste of time because it might be cool before you get there.
There is no pot and no warmer like in a drip coffee maker. It does not need one. Press to start, butter your toast, drink your HOT coffee.
The big timesaver is the huge reservoir that allows you to make eight or more cups of coffee without having to refill it.
The K elite will change the way you think about making coffee in the morning. It is that convenient.

Manufacturer	Keurig
Model Number	K-Elite
Package Dimensions	38.7 x 37.5 x 30.5 cm
Color	Frosted Slate
Size	12 oz. Brew Size
Special Features	Removable Tank, Water Filter, Programmable
Voltage	100120 Volts
Package Weight	4.65 Kilograms
Batteries Required	No
Batteries Included	No
Material Care Instructions	Hand wash
Brand Name	Keurig

Keurig K-Elite 5000197490 Brushed Silver Single Serve Coffee Maker and Laughing Man Colombia Gila K-Cup Pods 44 Count

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