Best Coffee Makers Under $100 [BUYER GUIDE]

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In the world of coffee, where every sip counts, the quest for the perfect brew often leads us to explore various brewing methods, machines, and gadgets. Whether you’re a seasoned coffee enthusiast or someone who simply wants to start their mornings with a rich cup of coffee, a coffee maker can be a game-changer. The market is flooded with coffee makers at all price points, but many people find themselves searching for the sweet spot: a reliable, quality coffee maker that won’t break the bank.

Coffee makers under $100 are becoming increasingly popular for good reason. They offer the perfect blend of affordability and performance, providing excellent brewing capabilities without the hefty price tag often associated with high-end machines. However, finding the right one requires understanding the features, benefits, and nuances that separate a mediocre coffee maker from a truly exceptional one.

In this guide, we will explore why coffee makers under $100 are a great investment, how to choose the best machine for your needs, and the top features you should look for. Additionally, we’ll provide tips on using and maintaining your coffee maker, as well as suggestions for where to find the best deals. Whether you’re brewing a cup of espresso, a bold cup of drip coffee, or a frothy latte, we’ll help you navigate the world of affordable coffee makers.

Best Coffee Makers Under $100: Comparison Table

Features Pros Cons
Hamilton Beach 12-Cup Coffee MakerHamilton Beach 12-Cup Coffee MakerCheck Price
  • 12-cup capacity
  • Easy-pour glass carafe
  • Brew strength selector
  • Auto pause and serve
  • Great value for large batches
  • Brew strength options for personalized coffee
  • User-friendly controls
  • Can get a bit loud during brewing
  • Plastic build may not feel as premium
Black+Decker 5-Cup Coffee MakerBlack+Decker 5-Cup Coffee MakerCheck Price
  • Compact size
  • Removable filter basket
  • Brew and keep warm setting
  • Simple on/off switch
  • Space-saving design
  • Perfect for smaller households or single users
  • Easy to clean
  • Limited to 5 cups
  • No fancy features like brew strength control
Cuisinart DCC-3200 14-Cup Coffee MakerCuisinart DCC-3200 14-Cup Coffee MakerCheck Price
  • Fully programmable
  • Brew strength control
  • Hotter coffee with adjustable temperature
  • Gold-tone filter included
  • Offers a range of advanced features for the price
  • 14-cup capacity for bigger brews
  • Customizable brewing options
  • Can be a little bulky
  • Takes up more counter space
Mr. Coffee 5-Cup Coffee MakerCheck Price
  • Simple on/off switch
  • Pause and serve feature
  • Dishwasher-safe parts
  • Compact design
  • Very budget-friendly
  • Easy to use
  • Space-saving design
  • Small capacity
  • Lacks advanced features like brew strength control
Ninja Hot and Cold Brewed SystemCheck Price
  • Brews both hot and cold coffee
  • Multiple brew sizes
  • Brew strength control
  • Removable water reservoir
  • Versatile – hot and cold brews
  • Multiple brew size options
  • Customizable brew strength
  • Bulky
  • Price a bit high for some budgets

Best Coffee Makers Under $100

Hamilton Beach 12-Cup Coffee Maker

Hamilton Beach 12-Cup Coffee Maker
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The Hamilton Beach 12-Cup Coffee Maker is a solid choice for those who want convenience and a bit of customization without breaking the bank. It brews up to 12 cups at once, making it perfect for families or office settings. The brew strength selector lets you play around with how strong you want your coffee, and it’s got that nice auto-pause feature so you can grab a cup mid-brew. While the plastic construction isn’t the fanciest, it works perfectly for daily use and makes a good budget-friendly option.

Features:

  • 12-cup capacity
  • Easy-pour glass carafe
  • Brew strength selector
  • Auto pause and serve

Pros:

  • Great value for large batches
  • Brew strength options for personalized coffee
  • User-friendly controls

Cons:

  • Can get a bit loud during brewing
  • Plastic build may not feel as premium
  Best Keurig Coffee And Espresso Makers [BUYER GUIDE]

Black+Decker 5-Cup Coffee Maker

Black+Decker 5-Cup Coffee Maker
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If you’re living solo or just need a compact coffee maker, the Black+Decker 5-Cup Coffee Maker is a great pick. It’s no-frills, but it does the job well with a brew-and-keep-warm feature that ensures your coffee stays hot for longer. The removable filter basket makes cleanup a breeze, and it’s small enough to fit in even the most cramped kitchens. However, it’s a bit limited if you need to brew larger amounts or want extra features.

Features:

  • Compact size
  • Removable filter basket
  • Brew and keep warm setting
  • Simple on/off switch

Pros:

  • Space-saving design
  • Perfect for smaller households or single users
  • Easy to clean

Cons:

  • Limited to 5 cups
  • No fancy features like brew strength control

Cuisinart DCC-3200 14-Cup Coffee Maker

Cuisinart DCC-3200 14-Cup Coffee Maker
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The Cuisinart DCC-3200 is for those who want to take their coffee-making up a notch without splurging on a high-end machine. It’s fully programmable, meaning you can wake up to fresh coffee every morning, and the brew strength control lets you adjust how bold you like your cup. Plus, the 14-cup capacity makes it a great option for families or those who entertain often. Yes, it’s a bit bigger than some others, but the added features really make it stand out for the price.

Features:

  • Fully programmable
  • Brew strength control
  • Hotter coffee with adjustable temperature
  • Gold-tone filter included

Pros:

  • Offers a range of advanced features for the price
  • 14-cup capacity for bigger brews
  • Customizable brewing options

Cons:

  • Can be a little bulky
  • Takes up more counter space

Mr. Coffee 5-Cup Coffee Maker

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The Mr. Coffee 5-Cup Coffee Maker is perfect for anyone who just needs a simple, no-hassle coffee maker. It has a compact design that doesn’t take up much space, and its easy-to-use on/off switch makes brewing a breeze. Plus, the pause and serve feature lets you pour a cup while it’s still brewing, which is a handy little bonus. The 5-cup capacity is on the smaller side, though, and it doesn’t have any bells and whistles like brew strength settings.

Features:

  • Simple on/off switch
  • Pause and serve feature
  • Dishwasher-safe parts
  • Compact design

Pros:

  • Very budget-friendly
  • Easy to use
  • Space-saving design

Cons:

  • Small capacity
  • Lacks advanced features like brew strength control

Ninja Hot and Cold Brewed System

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The Ninja Hot and Cold Brewed System is an awesome choice for coffee lovers who want to experiment with both hot and iced coffee. It’s not just your typical coffee maker – it offers multiple brew sizes and has strength control to really cater to your preferences. While the price might be slightly higher than other options on this list, it offers a lot of versatility, especially if you’re someone who enjoys both hot coffee in the morning and refreshing iced coffee later on. The only downside is its bulkier design, but it’s a small price to pay for the functionality.

Features:

  • Brews both hot and cold coffee
  • Multiple brew sizes
  • Brew strength control
  • Removable water reservoir

Pros:

  • Versatile – hot and cold brews
  • Multiple brew size options
  • Customizable brew strength

Cons:

  • Bulky
  • Price a bit high for some budgets

Why Buy Coffee Makers Under $100?

Coffee makers under $100 offer a unique blend of value and performance, making them an attractive choice for coffee lovers on a budget. While it’s easy to assume that higher prices always equate to higher quality, the reality is that many affordable coffee makers deliver exceptional results without costing you a fortune. Here are several reasons why buying a coffee maker under $100 might be the right decision for you:

  1. Affordability: One of the most compelling reasons to choose a coffee maker under $100 is the affordability factor. For many people, spending over $100 on a coffee machine simply isn’t practical. A coffee maker under $100 can still brew a rich, flavorful cup of coffee and last for years without the need to spend more on fancy features.
  2. Variety of Options: The $100-and-under range includes a wide array of coffee maker types, from drip coffee machines to single-serve pods, espresso makers, French presses, and more. This diversity allows you to select the brewing method that best suits your lifestyle and preferences, whether you’re a busy professional or a weekend coffee enthusiast.
  3. High Performance: While high-end machines often boast advanced features, many coffee makers under $100 come equipped with the basics and some extras that ensure a satisfying cup of coffee. For instance, automatic shut-off functions, brew strength control, and thermal carafes can be found in many affordable models.
  4. Compact and Practical: Coffee makers under $100 are generally smaller and more compact, making them ideal for individuals or small kitchens. Their simplicity ensures that they don’t take up too much counter space while still being able to brew a large pot of coffee.
  5. Cost-Effectiveness: If you drink coffee every day, buying a $100 coffee maker can be more cost-effective in the long run compared to purchasing specialty coffee drinks from cafés. The savings quickly add up, allowing you to enjoy fresh coffee every day without the premium price tag of your local coffee shop.
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In short, coffee makers under $100 can provide an excellent balance of quality, convenience, and value, all while keeping your budget in check. Whether you’re new to coffee-making or looking to upgrade your current setup, these machines can deliver satisfying results.

How To Choose The Right Machine?

Choosing the right coffee maker can feel overwhelming, especially with so many options on the market. When shopping for a coffee maker under $100, it’s crucial to evaluate several key factors to ensure you’re selecting the machine that best fits your needs. Here’s a breakdown of the essential aspects to consider when making your decision:

Brewing Method

  • Drip Coffee Makers: Ideal for those who want to brew multiple cups of coffee at once. They are perfect for larger households or individuals who drink coffee throughout the day.
  • Single-Serve Coffee Makers: These machines, like Keurig, are great for people who want a quick and easy cup of coffee without wasting excess grounds. They’re often compatible with coffee pods.
  • Espresso Machines: If you prefer espressos, lattes, or cappuccinos, a budget-friendly espresso machine might be the right choice. Many entry-level models under $100 can make espresso but often lack the advanced features found in premium machines.
  • French Press / Pour-Over: For those who enjoy a more hands-on brewing experience, French presses and pour-over devices can offer great flavor at a fraction of the cost of an automatic machine.

Size And Capacity

Consider how much coffee you typically consume each day. If you’re brewing for a crowd or your family, a larger capacity machine will be more practical. On the other hand, single-serve machines or smaller drip coffee makers are ideal for individuals or small households.

Brew Strength And Customization

Some coffee makers allow you to control the strength of your brew, giving you the flexibility to adjust the flavor to your liking. This feature is especially useful for people who like to experiment with different coffee styles.

Ease Of Use

Since most coffee makers under $100 are designed for convenience, it’s essential to choose a model that is simple to use. Look for easy-to-read controls, user-friendly interfaces, and straightforward setup processes.

Speed

The speed of brewing can be important depending on your schedule. Some machines brew a cup in under five minutes, while others may take longer. Consider how much time you’re willing to spend in the morning.

Durability

While you’re looking for a budget-friendly option, don’t compromise on durability. Choose a coffee maker made from quality materials that can withstand daily use. Check reviews and ratings to ensure the machine holds up over time.

Top Features To Look For In Coffee Makers Under $100

While the price may limit some features, there are still several essential elements you should look for when buying a coffee maker under $100. Here are some top features that enhance convenience, performance, and the overall brewing experience:

  1. Automatic Shut-Off: This is a key safety feature that turns off the machine after brewing, preventing overheating and potential hazards. It also adds peace of mind, especially if you’re prone to forgetting to turn it off.
  2. Programmability: Many coffee makers in this price range offer a programmable feature, allowing you to set the time for your coffee to start brewing. This feature is perfect for those who want their coffee ready first thing in the morning.
  3. Brew Strength Control: Some models allow you to customize your brew strength, whether you prefer a mild cup or a stronger, bolder brew. This feature adds flexibility and ensures a more personalized coffee experience.
  4. Thermal Carafes: A thermal carafe helps to keep your coffee hot for hours without requiring a heating plate, which can sometimes burn coffee. This feature is common in drip coffee makers under $100.
  5. Anti-Drip Function: This is a small but handy feature that allows you to pause the brewing process and pour a cup of coffee before the machine finishes.
  6. Water Filter: Having a built-in water filter can help improve the taste of your coffee by removing impurities and minerals that might affect the flavor.
  7. Compact Design: Many coffee makers in this price range have compact designs that fit easily on smaller countertops, perfect for apartments or kitchens with limited space.
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Tips For Using Coffee Makers Under $100

To get the most out of your coffee maker under $100, consider these tips for optimal brewing:

  1. Use Fresh, High-Quality Coffee Beans: Even the best coffee makers can’t make up for poor quality beans. Invest in fresh, high-quality coffee beans and grind them just before brewing for the best flavor.
  2. Use the Right Amount of Coffee: Follow the recommended coffee-to-water ratio for the machine you’re using. Too much coffee can result in an overly strong or bitter brew, while too little coffee will make your cup weak and watery.
  3. Maintain Water Temperature: For drip coffee makers and espresso machines, water should be at the right temperature (between 195°F and 205°F). Using water that’s too hot or too cold can negatively impact the flavor.
  4. Clean Your Machine Regularly: Over time, coffee oils and minerals can build up inside the machine, affecting the taste of your coffee and the performance of the machine. Clean your coffee maker regularly, following the manufacturer’s instructions.

Maintenance And Cleaning Tips

Proper maintenance and cleaning are essential to prolong the life of your coffee maker and maintain its performance. Here are some essential tips:

  1. Descale Your Machine: If you live in an area with hard water, scaling can accumulate inside the machine, affecting its performance. Use a vinegar-water solution or a descaling product to remove these deposits every 1-3 months.
  2. Wash Removable Parts: Regularly clean the carafe, filter basket, and other removable components to avoid the buildup of oils and residue. These parts can be cleaned with warm water and mild dish soap.
  3. Use Filtered Water: To prevent mineral buildup and improve the taste of your coffee, consider using filtered water in your machine.
  4. Wipe Down the Exterior: Wipe down the exterior of the machine regularly to keep it looking new and free of coffee splashes or spills.

Where To Buy Coffee Makers Under $100

There are numerous places to shop for coffee makers under $100, both online and in physical stores. Popular online retailers like Amazon, Walmart, and Target offer a wide variety of options at competitive prices. In addition, you can find good deals in local department stores, home goods stores, or specialty kitchen stores like Bed Bath & Beyond.

For those looking for even better deals, it’s worth checking for discounts or sales during major shopping events like Black Friday, Cyber Monday, or Amazon Prime Day.

Final Words

In conclusion, a coffee maker under $100 can provide an outstanding coffee experience without forcing you to spend a fortune. By considering key factors such as brewing method, features, and capacity, and by following maintenance tips, you can ensure that your coffee maker stays in top shape for years to come. With a wide variety of options available, there’s a perfect coffee maker for almost every budget and brewing preference.