Customer reviews from keurig.com
Keurig - Rivo Single-Serve Brewer - Black
Average customer rating
4.5
(604 Reviews)
Rating breakdown 604 reviews
5 Stars
418
4 Stars
121
3 Stars
16
2 Stars
19
1 Star
30
90%of customers recommend this product.
(
540 out of
597)
Customer Reviews for Keurig - Rivo Single-Serve Brewer - Black
Customer Rating
4
Great for it's Intended Purpose
on January 24, 2014
Posted by: Ironpeddler
from Toms River, NJ
Let me start out by saying I have been a home roaster for over ten years, I have been drinking espresso for over 40 years, my normal coffee in the morning is a French press, and I also have a Faema commercial espresso machine in my home. I'm not saying this to make myself look like some sort of coffee snob, just to say I know both ends of the coffee tasting spectrum. I also own a Kuerig K-Cup machine for over 5 years and use that daily, along with a vac-pot and Cappresso drip machine. My point being, you need to put each way of making coffee into it's proper perspective. For me, what I use to make my morning coffee has mostly to do with how much time I have. If I'm out very early, I grab a travel mug and put in 2 k-cups worth of coffee. If I have more time, French press. When I entertain, I grind up some beans and make a pot of drip or fire up the Faema to make espresso & cappuccinos, etc. Again, my point being, have the proper expectations of each way of making coffee and base your opinions on the taste of that method. I've had the Rivo for about 2 weeks now and I think I have a handle on it's strong & weak points. First off, the method by which they have designed the capsules to create the pressure is just short of genius. Piercing the top to inject the hot water into the capsule, to build up pressure, and then have it expand in size to then pierce the bottom prongs to then release that pressure to start the brewing process and create the crema is really something. Look at a spent capsule to see all the holes on the top and bottom. Numerous holes on top to make sure all the grinds are utilized and then releasing that pressure evenly from the bottom with a similar pattern of holes is an engineering marvel. This process is very efficient in extracting as much flavor as possible from the amount of coffee inside the capsule. The only short coming in their brewing process is the water temperature. The best temp I had come out was around 175-180 degrees...and this is why the espresso shots are slightly bitter. Espresso needs to be brewed at between 195-205 degrees...and if you could taste a cup brewed at these two different temps, you'd be amazed at the difference in taste. BUT, this machine can make an espresso in 3 minutes, including the warm-up time! With my Faema?...20 minutes to heat up and the routine of running water through the brew group to get everything hot for brewing...grinding, tamping, temp surfing, extracting, flushing, and then cleanup! To me, the savings in time is worth the trade-off in taste. Most coffee snobs would string me up for such a statement, but frankly I don't care..LOL. I'm not willing to go through that long ordeal of the big machine just to get 2ozs of Heaven! Don't get me wrong, the espresso out of that beast is simply incredible...but at what cost in time? Which brings me to my second point. This brewer only uses Lavazza coffee and some folks are complaining about that. Well, I looked into the Nespresso line of machines and they have umpteen different varieties. To that I say..."How many choices do you really need?" I roast my own green beans and after all is set and done, I'm probably down to 4 or 5 varieties that I really like...out of the 100's coffee beans available...I don't need 15 choices of espresso. Then when you factor in that Lavazza supplies 50% of all the espresso coffee in Italy...need I say more? The 3 versions of their caffeinated coffee are more than enough for most folks. And who would need more than one decaffeinated capsule? Now to the other folks that are complaining about the fact that they got it home only to discover that this machine doesn't utilize K-Cups...COME ON FOLKS, DO A TINY BIT OF READING BEFORE YOU BUY SOMETHING! I can't help but shake my head over those whiners. Third point, and the most important. Your expectations on this machine have to be realistic. You must ask yourself..."Do I want top of the line tasting espresso that can achieve the illusive 'God Shot'?" If the answer to that question is YES...this machine is not for you. So what is this brewer good for? The Rivo makes a decent, drinkable shot of espresso in 4 varieties VERY quickly and makes a fantastic tasting cappuccino or latte within a few minutes that will rival ANY coffee house! The truth of the matter is, you don't NEED a fantastic espresso to make a great latte or cappuccino. The simplicity of the frother is awesome. Put in some low fat milk (the lower the fat content, the better the froth!) up to the line marked on the container, place the frothing mechanism on top of the cup, slide it into the machine and push a button. In under 2 minutes you have coffee house style streamed milk without hardly lifting a finger. You don't have to hold a stainless steel cup under a steam wand for 10 minutes until your wrist gets tired! The toughest part of the process is lightly (and delicately as not to snap anything) rinsing the froth cup and frother under hot water for 30 seconds to get it ready for the the next time you use it. ALWAYS rinse the milk from the plastic cup ASAP and hand wash it. Two things to stay away from. Letting the milk stay in the cup after brewing for a long period of time and too much heat in a dishwasher. Both will make the plastic turn cloudy! Just plain common sense folks. From the time you turn on the machine until you're drinking a cappuccino is under 5 minutes...not bad! About the construction of the Rivo that some are complaining about. YES, it's all plastic....not stainless steel. But for gosh sakes, what do you expect from a brewer that does all this for just over $200.00?? Remember, it's all about expectations! You can't expect an all metal or partial metal design at this price point. Now, do I wish the top of the drip tray was metal? YES, because that will get scraped up...and I hope Keurig is listening to us about that. I would hope they make a metal one that will be a direct replacement for the painted plastic one that is now utilized. To recap...the Rivo is a GREAT machine for daily home use (not an office setting) that will give you fantastic results to the point that it will keep you away from that burnt tasting coffee they serve at Starbucks. With the proper routine of brewing and cleaning, this thing will last for years.
Pros: Attractive Mouthfeel/Body, Pleasing Aroma, Pleasing Roast
Cons: Mildly Bitter Espresso, Bitter Tasting Espresso, Unbalanced Or Sharp Acidity, Brew Temp Not Hot Enough
I would recommend this to a friend!
Written by a customer while visiting keurig.com
Customer Rating
4
Great flavor thru simplicity
on July 27, 2014
Posted by: Leo G
from McLean Va
For a larger cup, press the lungo button twice using the same pod. Use Intenso to minimize the flavor dilution.
Pros: Not Bitter, Convenient, Uncomplicated, Pleasing Aroma, Exceptional/Interesting Flavor
I would recommend this to a friend!
Written by a customer while visiting keurig.com
Customer Rating
5
Don't be afraid to commit to Lavazza
on August 4, 2014
Posted by: KevP
from East Lansing, MI
I really enjoy having this machine. I like the Lavazza line of espressos, so the lack of brand diversity hasn't been a problem. (I would like to see a Rainforest Certified dark roast espresso - are you reading Lavazza?) This machine does froth the milk well, and the espresso is tasty. I'm really appreciating having a nice latte without leaving my house - Yes, i was a regular at a coffee shop. So, in short, I think this machine pulls nice shots, and it's totally automatic. It froths the milk well (yes, there is a difference between cap and latte settings) and I get to enjoy my beverage without leaving my house. I recommend this to my friends, family, and coworkers. Cheers!
Pros: Pleasing Roast, Exceptional/Interesting Flavor, Pleasing Aroma, Attractive Mouthfeel/Body, Balanced Acidity, Smooth Taste
I would recommend this to a friend!
Written by a customer while visiting keurig.com
Customer Rating
4
convenient but expensive
on May 10, 2013
Posted by: Rebecca
from Overland Park, KS
I consume 2 large skinny mocha drinks every day. Total cost at the local coffee shop: $10/day. We have owned a Keurig system for years and love them. Doing research on an espresso maker I was delighted to see Keurig had a new system. I've had this about two months and love the convenience! It is quick. It is delicious. I make one for home and take one to enjoy at work. After buying the sugar free chocolate, the machine, filtered water, milk, and the packs, I am not saving very much. What I am saving is time. As others have said, keep boxes of pods on hand. You cannot find them in stores unless you live near the retailer currently carrying these. It takes a week to get them unless I pay for the express shipping. Hopefully soon the packs will be available more readily and locally. This might also help lower the cost. My dream Keurig would have the ability to make regular coffee and espresso. Right now we have two systems, one for me and one for my husband. Until then this tastes as good or better than my old habit without the long lines.
Pros: Smooth Taste, Easy to use
Cons: Expensive Packs
I would recommend this to a friend!
Written by a customer while visiting keurig.com
Customer Rating
4
Almost there...
on December 31, 2012
Posted by: Lattes in the City
from Atlanta, GA
Verified Purchase:No
I don't typically like regular coffee, but was spending a fortune on lattes at my favorite local coffeeshop. I considered getting the Starbucks machine, but I'm not crazy about Starbucks as is, and the powdered milk freaked me out. Once I heard about the Rivo I practically stalked it, and was lucky to get one for Christmas. The machine is fantastic. The milk froths beautifully, though I'd suggest microwaving it a bit first-- the machine doesn't get the milk quite as hot as I'd like. It's easy to use and easy to clean. There are some downsides-- only four types of espresso are currently available, for one. I hope Keurig creates a refillable container soon, so I can try different types. Also, if you add the tiniest bit too much milk, it'll overflow and spill everywhere, including under the machine. If that happens to you, IMMEDIATELY pick up the machine and wipe under it. I figured I'd gotten it all clean, since I wiped up all the milk I saw, but some of the milk leaked through the back of the machine. A week later I moved it and, long story short, rancid milk galore was revealed (no idea how I didn't smell that...). All in all, I still think this is probably the best home latte maker on the market. The pods aren't super expensive, you get to use your own milk, and it's faster and easier than buying a traditional espresso machine/steamer for your home.
Pros: Smooth Taste, Pleasing Roast, Pleasing Aroma
I would recommend this to a friend!
Written by a customer while visiting keurig.com
Customer Rating
5
Realize What You Are Buying!
on March 8, 2014
Posted by: DixieDevilDawg
from Johnson City, TN
If you have ever owned and or used a manual espresso machine you know the art that is involved in getting everything right. Temperature, pressure, tampering, and grind are just a few of the things that can make or break a shot of espresso. It takes a lot of patience and practice to get it right. Not to mention a ton of hard earned cash for all the equipment. So if you are trying to compare this machine to a proffesional unit in a coffee shop in Italy, this machine is not for you. If you are wanting a decent shot without all of the hassle and technique, then you have found the last machine you will ever need. This unit is simple to use, easy to clean, and pretty much does the work for you. In fact it does ALL OF THE WORK for you, so for those who complain about temperature, more or less froth, or a lack of flavored options I refer back to the title.....realize what you are buying. This is an automated unit that takes the guess work out of it. If you want to customize temps, pressure, and the like buy a manual unit. As for different flavors that is what syrups and flavorings are for. Don't think your pumpkin vanilla latte from your local coffee house uses a special pumpkin vanilla roast. Chances are they have added pumpkin vanilla syrup or another type of pumpkin vanilla flavoring. With the Rivo you can make your drink taste however you want. Add whatever flavorings or sweeteners float your boat. If you want a decent shot that will rival your favorite big chain coffee shop and then look no further. I've had espresso in many cafes all over northern Italy. I know what the "god shot" does and should taste like. I also know what bad espresso tastes like and you will not get that with this little jewel. Be realistic. You're not gonna find a better unit in that price range that will do everything for you. Don't expect it it be something it's not.
Pros: Balanced Acidity, Attractive Mouthfeel/Body, Smooth Taste, Pleasing Roast, Pleasing Aroma
Cons: A Little Higher Temp
I would recommend this to a friend!
Written by a customer while visiting keurig.com
Customer Rating
4
Cappuccino & Latte System
on December 21, 2015
Posted by: Anonymous
from St.Cloud, FL
Verified Purchase:No
I love the machine when it works properly. I had to get it replaced once because the milk spinner was broken. It doesn't work anymore on the second one but I still use it for the coffee.
No, I would not recommend this to a friend.
Response from keurig.comBy May 19, 2016
Oh no! This is not what we like to hear. We can certainly understand your frustration and would be happy to help resolve your issue. At your soonest convenience, please contact our consumer care team. We are available seven days a week from 7:00 am to Midnight, Est. and can be reached at 866-901-2739. We look forward to your call!
Written by a customer while visiting keurig.com
Customer Rating
5
I have found my Happy Espresso Place
on July 14, 2014
Posted by: Mrs. Fish
from sacramento, ca
My fiancee got me this for christmas and I'm not sure how he is going to live up to such a perfect gift that keeps on giving. It is so easy to use anf fool proof that even I can use it. I am a hard core expresso girl I use to do my morning run 7 days a week. No w I have my Rivo and all I need is my Kpods, syrups & soy milk and I'm all ready. i'm saving money and still getting the yummiest epresso drinks :) This is a no brainer buy, buy, buy, buy one NOW! oh and did I mentioned Keurogs customer service is phenomenal!
Pros: Pleasing Roast, Attractive Mouthfeel/Body, Exceptional/Interesting Flavor, Pleasing Aroma, Not Bitter, Smooth Taste
I would recommend this to a friend!
Written by a customer while visiting keurig.com