Kärcher K4 Compact vs K4 Power Control – what’s the difference?

Have you decided on a Kärcher K4 but don’t know which one to buy? In this article we compare the three models and show the crucial differences.

K4 Compact vs K4 Power Control comparison table

Cleaning Performance

The three devices all clean with the same water pressure. However, the two Power Control models have a higher water flow rate and thus a little more power overall. You can feel this when cleaning, but the difference is not significant. You sometimes have to spray a little longer with the K4 compact, but the result is the same.

All models are ideally suited to quickly clean all medium-sized surfaces without difficulty.

Comfort

Undoubtedly, the Premium Power Control offers the greatest comfort thanks to the super practical hose reel.
The K4 Power Control does not have a hose reel, but it has enough space for the hose. The power cord can be stored in the accessory compartment net.
This is not the case with the K4 Compact. It has no compartment net, so the power cord and the pressure hose must be rolled up together. The handling is not very practical.

For people who can’t lift much weight, the K4 Compact is ideal. This lightweight device can easily be carried around and put into a rack. The K4 Power Control, on the other hand, is more than twice as heavy. For people who can’t lift much weight, this can be a problem.

For specific jobs, such as car cleaning, the pressure hose of the K4 Compact is a little short. The two Power Control models are more suitable as they come with a pressure hose that is 2 metres longer.

You can also use a detergent with all appliances. However, this is a little easier with the Power Control models thanks to the “plug n clean” system. Simply put the bottle upside down on the respective inlet and you are ready to go.
The K4 Compact, on the other hand, has a suction hose with which you have to suck in the detergent from the bottle. There is no holder, which means when you move the pressure washer, you have to take care of the shampoo bottle.

Versatility

All three models can be equipped with the usual accessories. The Car Kit, Home Kit, but also various special accessories like the pipe cleaning kit or the telescopic spray lance for windows fit all models.

In addition, all K4 models can draw water from a tank with a suction hose.

Price

Here, the small K4 Compact has the advantage. The list price is lower than for the K4 Power Control. Most of the time you will also find suppliers who offer attractive discounts.

Useful articles

• Best Kärcher pressure washer (comprehensive buyer’s guide)