Memorial DayFurther down the page, you'll find some explanations regarding the key similarities and differences between the Kärcher K4 and the Kärcher K1700.
But before checking out explanations regarding their power, design, and features here's a table that summarizes the main pros of each of these 2 pressure washers:
| Kärcher K4 | Kärcher K1700 |
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Power Comparison
- Fuel: Both units are electric pressure washers.
- Engine & Pump: The Kärcher K4 and the Kärcher K1700 both use an axial-type pump to put water under pressure. These 2 pumps are manufactured by N-COR. Two main factors differentiate the motors used in these 2 units. To start with, the Kärcher K4's pump is powered by a 13-amp motor, while the Kärcher K1700 uses a 14-amp one. But it should also be noted that, while the latter is a standard, universal motor, the former is an induction motor and thus, more energy-efficient, quiet and durable.
The following charts are provided to show you at a glance how the main specs of the Karcher K4 compare to the Karcher K1700.
- Pressure: With a maximum reachable pressure of 1900 PSI, the Kärcher K4 provides a higher force to blast off dirt and grime than the 1700 PSI of the Kärcher K1700.
- Water Flow: When operating at low pressure, the K4 can generate a much higher maximum volume of water than the K1700. It can deliver up to 1.5 GPM (gallons per minute), whereas the K1700 offers a maximum water flow of 1.2 GPM. The former should thus allow you to rinse away dirt and debris with significantly better efficiency and speed.
- Cleaning Power: With its 2850 C.U., the Kärcher K4 offers a much higher overall cleaning efficiency than the K1700 and its 2040 C.U.
Design Comparison
- Design: With their compact design, both units are constructed with a strong focus on portability in mind.
- Weight: At 20.7 lbs, the K1700 is somewhat lighter than the 26.5 lbs of the K4.
- Maneuverability: Both products benefit from a set of wheels, which greatly contributes to their maneuverability. Both offer a handle, which improves your grip when you wish to move them.
Feature Comparison
- Soap Addition: Both washers allow for the addition of chemical detergent solutions to the water. Whether you choose the K4 or the K1700, you'll be able to store your cleaning chemicals in the unit's onboard soap tank.
- Trigger Gun & Wand: While each of these 2 units comes with a fairly standard ergonomic trigger gun, the Kärcher K4 sports a VPS wand, while the Kärcher K1700 has a classic one.
- Nozzles: The K4 doesn't come with any nozzles (its aforementioned wand removes the need for any), but the K1700 is supplied with three (15°, soap, and a turbo nozzle).
- Reach: With its included 25 ft high-pressure hose, the Kärcher K4 will allow you, out of the box, to move farther away from the unit than the Kärcher K1700 and its 20 ft high pressure hose. As both units feature a 35 ft power cord, their maximum allowable placement from an electrical outlet is the same.
- Storage: The K4 and K1700 both offer onboard storage that allows you to neatly keep the accessories you need at hand. Both washers feature a set of hooks to help you neatly store their high pressure hoses when not in use.
- Accessories: In addition to the usual set of included accessories, the Kärcher K4 also comes with dirt blaster and detergent tank.
TL;DR
| Kärcher K4 | Kärcher K1700 |
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| Buy on Amazon (opens in a new tab) | Buy on Amazon (opens in a new tab) |
Show all offers | Show all offers |
