The best-selling and most popular high-pressure cleaner is undoubtedly the K4 model. This can also be seen from the numerous buyer comments in the large online shops: In percentage terms, no other jet washer has more positive comments than the Kärcher K4.
But, of course, it is not suitable for all tasks and requirements. The best model for you depends on how dirty the area to be cleaned is, how large the cleaning area is, what your budget is, how much space you have and, last but not least, how often you want to use the device.
There is an optimal Kärcher high pressure cleaner for every need. We have rounded up Kärcher’s 5 models and created a guide on what they are great for and where they stand compared to their other models.
We tested all models ourselves; what is our personal opinion?
The best electric Karcher Pressure washer for home use
Overall, the K4 Power Control (K4 Power Control review) is our top pick.
It clearly has the best price-performance ratio of all Kärcher models. The device is of good quality and has enough power to clean all heavily soiled objects comfortably and reliably in an average household.
Even the list price is relatively inexpensive. But with a little patience, you can buy it at very attractive discounts. The numerous online sellers offer attractive deals quite frequently.
If you have a small budget and only need the device very little and would rather clean lightly soiled objects, start with the inexpensive K2 Compact.
If you have an unlimited budget and want to buy only the best, go for the K7 Premium model. This is the Rolls Royce and offers top quality. Massive water pressure, aluminium pump for durability, best ease of use.
Karcher Pressure Washer Models
There are five different electric standard Kärcher models for home use:
- Kärcher K2
- Kärcher K3
- Kärcher K4
- Kärcher K5
- Kärcher K7
Every single model comes with a different range. There are the Premium versions, Power Control versions (formerly full control), Home Kits, Car Kits, Compact versions and, for the top models, the Premium Smart Control versions.
Karcher Premium
These power washers are equipped with a reel for the pressure hose. This is the difference with the power control and smart control versions.
Karcher Power Control (formerly: Full Control)
There is an LED-Display on the trigger gun that allows you to comfortably monitor the different power settings (from soft to hard).
Karcher Smart Control
It’s basically the same as the power control version (LED-Display) except you can select the different power settings directly on the gun without bending over to adjust the water pressure. Additionally, you can connect the pressure washer to the Kärcher smartphone app and control it remotely via Bluetooth. It’s only available on certain K5 and K7 models.
Karcher Compact
These are the smaller and lighter models. They are easy to transport and store, and they are cheaper than the premium/power control models.
Home-Kit
All home-models come with extra equipment for cleaning your home (Surface cleaner, stone and facade cleaner, detergent).
Car & Home-Kit
All car and home models come with extra equipment for cleaning your car (Rotating washing brush, foam jet, car shampoo) and cleaning your home (home-kit). Devices with the car kit only are not available.
Differences between Karcher Compact and Full Control (Power Control)
In 2019 Karcher rebased compact models of their pressure washer range, for example, you can buy a Karcher K2 Full Control, or K4 Full control, and you can also get a Karcher K2 Compact, or Karcher K4 compact.
So what are the differences? The compact version is more compact, it is the same spec as the full control counterpart. So the engine is the same, in terms of accessories you get a lance, however, the compact version is more basic and doesn’t have the visual settings of the full control version.
The detergent bottle isn’t built-in, you get a suction tube that you insert into your own bottle that you would have to place on the ground next to the pressure washer.
The compact models are also cheaper than the ful control versions too, so if you don’t think you will use the detergent bottle feature and don’t need the full control lance, then you can save some money with the compact version which is also smaller and lighter too.
What are the differences between the Premium & Compact models?
Depending on which model you are looking at, they all have the same spec. For example, if you were looking at getting the K5 Pressure washer, there is no difference in performance whether you go for the home, premium or compact. They all have a 2100-watt motor, giving 145 bar pressure. They all come with an 8m hose and have a flow rate of 500 litres per minute. So the internal power and pressure are the same, whichever model you choose.
The differences are in how it is housed and how it is from the outside. Their premium model has onboard storage for attachments and a place to store and hold the trigger gun. The premium model also has a hose reel on the back for the lengthy 8m high-pressure hose. With all this extra weight, the design is very robust. It has large wheels to make it easy to move; however, it is heavier and bulkier than the compact.
The compact version is just that, more compact. There is no onboard storage or a hose reel built in. It is designed to make the main unit as small as possible while still packing the powerful punch inside. Although the compact is smaller, you still need to store the hose and attachments elsewhere. It is also lighter, making it easier to move and carry if needed.
How much does a Kärcher pressure washer cost?
That depends on which model you want to buy. You can buy the cheapest entry-level model (K2 Compact) at a discount under GBP 100. While the expensive K7 Premium Smart Control usually costs more than GBP 600.
Cheap Karcher pressure washer
The cheapest Kärcher models are the K2 and K3. These entry-level models typically cost between £100 and £250 (list price), depending on the features and accessories included.
Karcher pressure washer deals
Kärcher pressure washers are usually a little more expensive than the competition. But you can almost always find lucrative deals. It is not uncommon to find Kärcher models with a 30% discount. Check the best prices on our deals page.
Karcher Pressure Washers – Comparison
The most important features:
| Model | Max. Pressure (bar) | Flow rate (l/min) | Operating weight (kg) | Dimensions (LxWxH) in mm | Area performance (m2/h) | Power cable (m) | Pressure hose (m) |
|
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| K7 Premium Smart Control Home | view on amazon | 180 | 8 | 19.3 | 459x330x666 | 60 | 5 | 10 |
| K7 Compact | view on amazon | 180 | 8 | 17.6 | 378x291x516 | 60 | 5 | 10 |
| K5 Premium Smart Control Home | view on amazon | 145 | 7.5 | 15.8 | 414x306x588 | 40 | 5 | 10 |
| K5 Power Control | view on amazon | 145 | 7.5 | 15.7 | 402x306x588 | 40 | 5 | 10 |
| K5 Power Control Car & Home | view on amazon | 145 | 7.5 | 14.8 | 402x306x588 | 40 | 5 | 10 |
| K5 Compact | view on amazon | 145 | 7.5 | 13.9 | 354x308x520 | 40 | 5 | 8 |
| K4 Premium Power Control Car & Home | view on amazon | 130 | 6.3 | 13.6 | 414x306x588 | 30 | 5 | 8 |
| K4 Power Control | view on amazon | 130 | 6.3 | 13.1 | 402x306x588 | 30 | 5 | 8 |
| K4 Power Control Home | view on amazon | 130 | 6.3 | 13.1 | 402x306x590 | 30 | 5 | 8 |
| K4 Compact | view on amazon | 130 | 5.2 | 5.9 | 273x256x456 | 25 | 6 | |
| K3 Power Control | view on amazon | 120 | 5.5 | 5.4 | 297x280x677 | 25 | 5 | 7 |
| K3 Premium Power Control Home | 120 | 5.5 | 6.2 | 340x281x677 | 25 | 5 | 7 | |
| K3 Home | view on amazon | 120 | 5.5 | 7.0 | 279x275x803 | 25 | 6 | |
| K3 Compact Home | 120 | 5.5 | 5.0 | 264x256x450 | 25 | 6 | ||
| K3 Compact | 120 | 5.5 | 5.0 | 264x256x450 | 25 | 6 | ||
| K2 Power Control Home | view on amazon | 110 | 5.5 | 4.8 | 246x280x586 | 20 | 5 | 5 |
| K2 Power Control | view on amazon | 110 | 5.5 | 4.8 | 246x280x587 | 20 | 5 | 5 |
| K2 Compact Home | view on amazon | 110 | 5.2 | 4.5 | 180x219x389 | 20 | 5 | 4 |
| K2 Compact Car & Home | view on amazon | 110 | 5.2 | 4.5 | 180x219x390 | 20 | 5 | 4 |
| K2 Compact | view on amazon | 110 | 5.2 | 4.5 | 180x219x391 | 20 | 5 | 4 |
Differences Between the Karcher Models
Karcher Pressure Washer Reviews
We have analysed all available customer testimonials on the most important online shops for the individual models. We found that, on average, 90% of all buyers were satisfied with their appliances.
Conversely, this also means that every tenth buyer of a Kärcher high-pressure cleaner was dissatisfied. For some it was because the unit did not live up to expectations, for others because it soon broke down or lost water, the performance was too weak or was generally perceived as being of inferior quality.
The K4 models scored best, with 95% of all buyers satisfied with all versions.
Buyers were least satisfied with the K7 models. About 15% were disappointed.
It is striking that the Premium Smart Control Home kits (K7 and K5) have relatively low satisfaction rates. (You can read more about why this is below).
Karcher K2 review
The supplied high-pressure hose is usually too short, especially for car cleaning.
For tasks that don’t take too long and don’t have too much of a dirty area to be cleaned, the small models are usually Ok.
The quality often leaves a lot to be desired, especially the many plastic parts are prone to needing repair. In addition, water often leaks out.
However, these devices are inexpensive and entry-level models.
Karcher K3 review
A little more power and a little more comfortable than the K2, but considerably more expensive. Is the higher price justified? Who is this model suitable for? We answer these questions in our comprehensive K3 Power Control review.
Karcher K4 review
The best-selling model.
Many people first bought the K2 entry-level model and then switched to a K4. The majority are really pleased, praising the significant improvement in performance, but also the much better build quality compared to K2 or K3.
For certain tasks, such as cleaning a larger car, the hose could be a little longer. Apart from that, most cleaning tasks around the house can be done easily and comfortably.
The K4 Full Control series is no longer manufactured (There are still unsold units that are offered in shops like amazon). For this reason, we have not posted a review of it.
The successor model is called Power Control. However, since the two models are practically identical, the Power Control review also applies to the Full Control review.
Karcher K5 review
Most buyers’ reviews in the large online shops complain about the pressure hose. Many state that it gets twisted quickly, and some are dissatisfied with the length.
Some find the wheels too small, being useful only on tarmac.
We have tested the K5 models ourselves and can confirm some of the complaints, but not all.
For more information, read our Kärcher K5 reviews:
Karcher K7 review
For very heavy soiling, these devices are ideal and clean much faster and more thoroughly than the smaller models.
The Smart control function (operation via app) is pointless and offers no additional benefits. Why should I control a high-pressure cleaner via an app?
It’s really only suitable for people who use the device a lot. For weekend warriors, the price/performance ratio is insufficient.
As with the K5, not all buyers are satisfied with the reel; In the advertising it looks simpler than it actually is.
The Compact model is the most popular one. The same cleaning performance, the same hose, but fewer electronic bells and whistles, thus less prone to needing repair, somewhat lighter and, of course, cheaper.
Karcher Pressure Washer Uses
These are the manufacturer’s recommendations and should only be taken as a guide.
Of course, you can also tackle larger tasks with a smaller model but it takes much longer and is not quite as clean as with a large model.
In addition, smaller models, such as the K2 or K3, are prone to faults after prolonged use, as they have many plastic parts and are generally of a lower quality. Another problem is the length of the hose. The hose length of the small models is too short for some tasks. If you are not sure, it is best to start with a small, inexpensive device and try it out for yourself to see whether it achieves your goal.
Best Karcher Pressure Washer for Car Cleaning
If you are buying a pressure washer primarily for car washing and cleaning, then there are a few things to look at when purchasing.
Basically, you can wash any car perfectly with any Kärcher electric pressure washer. We have tested all Kärcher models. Whether you use the entry-level K2 Compact or the high-end K7 Smart Premium, it doesn’t matter, your car will be clean.
The highest possible water pressure is not an advantage when washing a car. On the contrary, more than 130 bar can damage the paintwork or even leave dents.
The crucial factor is comfort:
Can I wash the whole car without dragging the device behind me all the time?
The length of the pressure hose is important here. The longer, the better. For example, with a 4-metre hose, to clean a Volvo XC 60 (mid-size SUV) you will have to move the unit 2-3 times.
How easy is it to use shampoo?
There are 4 different ways to use shampoo: By Plug n Play, with a built-in tank, a detergent suction hose, or a foam nozzle (must be purchased separately).
The Plug n Play system is certainly the most practical. Insert the detergent bottle upside down and start. When you are done, take the bottles out again, no cleaning, no problems. The disadvantage: you have to buy the expensive Kärcher bottles, because only these fit on the unit.
Units with a built-in detergent tank are also quite practical. Add in the shampoo and you’re ready to go, the appliance sucks in the liquid automatically. The tanks are not very big, but they are enough for foaming a medium-sized car.
You don’t have to buy the expensive Kärcher detergent here, a cheaper product is just as good. The disadvantage is that you have to rinse out the tank, which is a bit of extra work.
Also quite handy is the foam nozzle FJ6 (fits on every model). Simply connect it to the pressure gun, fill the tank with shampoo and get started. You can set the level of the foam supply and the strength of the water jet. Of course, you can also use a cheaper detergent here. The disadvantage: this tool is not included; you have to buy it separately.
The cheaper models are equipped with a detergent suction hose. This is not recommended. You have to constantly make sure that the bottle doesn’t fall over and the liquid doesn’t spill out. This is especially troublesome if the device has to be moved. Here we recommend buying a foam nozzle, e.g., the FJ6.
Can the model be equipped with additional equipment such as brushes, special nozzles, etc.?
Depending on your model’s delivery method, it makes sense to use helpful accessories to achieve better cleaning results or more comfort. The rotating wash brush WB 130 and the foam nozzle FJ6 are particularly helpful. The good news is that they fit all Kärcher models.
Kärcher K4 Premium Power Control Car & Home
For people who want to wash their car regularly, we recommend the K4 Premium Power Control Car & Home. This model meets all the requirements of a good high-pressure cleaner for your car:
- Long pressure hose
- Hose reel
- Simple detergent system (Plug n Play)
- Helpful accessories like a rotating brush
Kärcher K2 Compact Car & Home
For people with a limited budget who want to clean their car from time to time, we recommend the K2 Compact Car and Home. The necessary equipment is included and the cleaning performance is good.
However, you have to make concessions in terms of comfort.
How to clean a car with a Kärcher pressure washer
Best Karcher Pressure Washer for Patio & Driveway
If cleaning your patio and driveway are going to be a big part of the use of your pressure washer then power and water flow are key. Your driveway may not have ever been pressure washed before, it could be 10 years old, however running a pressure washer over it can bring it up like new and show it in a way like you have never seen it before. Higher bar pressure is important to bring up stubborn moss, dirt and stains. The higher water flow rate makes it quicker and easier to wash up and remove the dirt, more water is being pushed through every hour making it quicker to carry out the task overall. With all this in mind if you are looking for a pressure washer for this task then we recommend the upper end of the Karcher range. We would recommend checking out the K5 and the K7 models.
The K5 is the more powerful mid-range option, this is a great model for patio and driveway pressure washing. It has 145 bar pressure and a water flow rate of 500l/h. This is ideal for the task and also comes with a patio cleaning attachment. The 450 Patio Cleaner attachment is a splash-free cleaner that helps to clean the wooden fences and also the rooftop without any effort.
If you want maximum power and expect to be using your pressure washer most weeks then you may want to go for the top of the range model, the charter K7. This is a fanatics machine and certainly has all the power you need, it packs a punch with 160 bar pressure and a water flow rate of 600l/h powered by a 3000-watt air-cooled motor. This will tackle any task thrown at it and is certainly powerful enough to bring your block driveway up like new. If you wanted a pressure washer that will be used often then this is certainly worth the investment.
Most Powerful Karcher Pressure Washer
As you can easily see in our comparison table, the most powerful model is, of course, the K7. With 180 Bar, or 2600 PSI (pounds per square inch), it is capable of removing all kind of dirt around an average home much faster and more comfortably than with any other Kärcher jet washer.
How to set up a Kärcher pressure washer
In this example, we show you the set up for a Kärcher K4 Power Control. The procedure is the same for all Kärcher models.
- Unwind the pressure hose
- First off, attach your garden hose from your water supply to the pressure washer
- Connect the trigger gun to the pressure hose
- Attach the lance to the trigger gun
- Open the water tap
- Connect the power cord
- Switch the pressure washer to “ON”
- Pull the lever and start cleaning
Karcher Pressure Washers – Top Accessories
Here you will find some of the best-selling and most popular Kärcher accessories
Best Kärcher Cordless Pressure Washer
You don’t have a power connection? Then you need a cordless device. Here you’ll find the best cordless pressure washers!
Useful articles
- Karcher vs Nilfisk – what rules the game
- Bosch vs Karcher pressure washer
- Pressure washer buyers guide (Bar guide)
- Kranzle vs Karcher pressure washer
- How to use a Karcher Pressure Washer with a Bucket
- Karcher pressure washer instruction manuals
About the Author
Mark Sharona is a craftsman with decades of experience. He has used many pressure washers and knows exactly what’s important.
*Disclosure: This article may contain affiliate links, and at no additional cost, this site may earn a commission if you buy. Last updated on 2024-12-21 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
