Kärcher K3 vs K4 – what’s the difference?
Published By - 9th November 2022
In this post we compare the Kärcher K3 Power Control with the K4 Power Control (the K3 Compact is no longer manufactured). Along with the Power Control models, there is also the Premium Power Control version. The only difference is the hose reel, otherwise they are identical, so we won’t go into more detail here.
We have tested both models and will show you the most important differences.
Kärcher K3 Power Control vs K4 Power Control comparison table
| Model | Max. Pressure (bar) | Flow rate (l/min) | weight (kg) | Power cable (m) | Pressure hose (m) | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| K3 Power Control | 120 | 5.5 | 5.6 | 5 | 7 | |
| K4 Power Control | 130 | 6.3 | 13.1 | 5 | 8 |
Cleaning performance
The K4 Power Control works with more water pressure and a higher water flow rate and therefore has more power than the K3 Power Control. This means that stubborn dirt can be removed more quickly.
The difference is noticeable, but not huge. Still, a slight advantage for the K4.
Comfort
Both devices are set up quickly and easily. Connecting the pressure hose and garden hose, plugging in the power cable, turning on the unit is very easy and can be done in a minute with a little practice.
The K4 is more than twice as heavy as the K3. For people with less strength or back problems, the K4 weighing 13 kg could be difficult to carry. Pulling, on the other hand, is easy with both; they are equipped with a telescopic handle and wheels.
Although the K4 has some plastic parts, it seems to be of higher quality and is a bit more stable than the K3. The parts do not wobble or vibrate as much and the pressure hose is much more flexible.
The design is similar: gun, lances, hose, and cable can be stowed away on both units. However, we think the storage space for the lances could have been solved a little better on the K4, but that’s complaining at a high level!
Cleaning is comfortable and unproblematic with the K4 Power control as well as with the K3. Both have a display for the pressure on the gun, the same vario lance, and dirt blaster lance. The K4 pressure hose has a couple of advantages; it is one metre longer and a bit more flexible, which makes it easier to work with, especially on larger objects such as SUVs or vans.
Versatility
There are no big differences here; with both devices you can basically clean everything. Both can be equipped with the usual accessories for patios, cars, or guttering, etc.
Price
The K4 Power Control is significantly more expensive than the K3.
| Model | Current price | Discount off list price | You save | last update | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kärcher K3 Power Control | £139.00 | 13% | £20.99 | Buy on Amazon | 2025-01-20 |
| Kärcher K4 Power Control | £207.70 | 13% | £32.29 | Buy on Amazon | 2025-01-20 |
Conclusion
Overall, the K4 Power Control offers more than the K3. For people who want to use the device frequently for larger objects, such as an SUV, the K4 is better suited.
If you are looking for an inexpensive entry-level pressure washer, we would recommend the K2 Power control or even the K2 Compact instead of the K3 Power Control. It has a slightly lower cleaning power and is a little less comfortable, but it’s significantly cheaper.
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