Do you dream of rich, frothy espresso shots without breaking the bank? Many people want to make delicious espresso drinks at home, but the machines can be super expensive. It’s tough to find a good espresso machine that doesn’t cost a lot of money. You might worry that a cheap machine won’t make good coffee, or that it will break easily.
But what if you could enjoy cafe-quality espresso right in your own kitchen for less than $100? It’s totally possible! This post is here to help you navigate the world of budget-friendly espresso makers. We’ll look at what makes a good machine in this price range and highlight some top picks that offer great value.
By reading on, you’ll discover how to find an espresso machine under $100 that actually makes great coffee. We’ll break down what to look for, so you can feel confident in your choice. Get ready to say goodbye to expensive coffee shop trips and hello to delicious homemade espresso!
Our Top 5 Espresso Machine Under 100 Dollars Recommendations at a Glance
| Image | Product | Rating | Links |
|---|---|---|---|
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SOWTECH Coffee Machine | 8.9/10 | Check Price |
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Imusa 6 or 3cup Electric Espresso Maker | 9.4/10 | Check Price |
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LAOION Cuban Coffee Maker | 8.6/10 | Check Price |
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CASABREWS 3700 Essential Espresso Machine 20 Bar | 8.7/10 | Check Price |
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CHULUX Slim Espresso Machine with Milk Frother Steam Wand | 8.5/10 | Check Price |
Top 5 Espresso Machine Under 100 Dollars Detailed Reviews
1. SOWTECH Coffee Machine
Rating: 8.6/10
Wake up to delicious coffee with the SOWTECH Coffee Machine. This black, 800W machine makes it easy to brew 1-4 cups of espresso, latte, or cappuccino. It’s perfect for small kitchens and beginners who want to enjoy café-quality drinks at home.
What We Like:
- Fast Brewing: Get your coffee fix in just minutes thanks to the 800W heating system.
- Great Frothing: The powerful steam wand creates silky, dense milk foam for perfect lattes and cappuccinos. A short anti-burn tube keeps your fingers safe.
- Durable Cups: The shatterproof, BPA-free Tritan cups are safe, light, and won’t change your coffee’s taste. They also have clear markings for easy pouring.
- Compact Design: This machine is small and light (3.3LB), so it fits easily on any countertop.
- Easy to Use: With a simple one-button operation and a control knob, it’s super user-friendly, especially for beginners. Cleaning is also a breeze.
- No-Worry Shopping: It comes with an instruction manual, a 30-day money-back guarantee, a 1-year free replacement, and lifetime after-sales service.
What Could Be Improved:
- Steam Wand Care: The steam wand might need clearing with the included pin if it gets blocked. It’s important to clean it right after use to prevent clogs.
- Milk Frothing Tip: For the best froth, use whole milk and immerse the steam stick about 1 inch into the milk for 30 seconds.
This SOWTECH coffee machine offers a convenient and enjoyable way to make your favorite coffee drinks. It’s a great addition to any kitchen, especially for those who love a good latte or cappuccino.
2. Imusa 6 or 3cup Electric Espresso Maker
Rating: 9.4/10
The Imusa 6 or 3cup Electric Espresso Maker, Black brings the coffee shop experience right to your kitchen. You can make either 6 or 3 small, strong cups of espresso. It’s made to last with a strong aluminum base and looks great with its black and brown design.
What We Like:
- You can choose to brew 6 or 3 cups of espresso, so you can make just what you need.
- It’s built tough with a cast aluminum base, and the black and brown colors make it look modern and stylish.
- It’s easy to use with a detachable base and a simple on/off switch. A light shows you when your coffee is ready.
- The handle stays cool, making it safe to hold and carry.
- This maker is great for making many types of coffee, like traditional espresso, Cuban coffee, Italian coffee, and Moka. It really brings out the best flavor and smell.
- It’s perfect for any situation – at home, when friends visit, for travel, or even at the office.
- It comes in a nice gift box, making it a fantastic gift for anyone who loves coffee.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the carafe is tinted brown, some users might prefer a clear carafe to see the brewing process more easily.
This Imusa espresso maker is a versatile and stylish way to enjoy your favorite coffee drinks at home or on the go. It’s a thoughtful gift for any coffee lover.
3. LAOION Cuban Coffee Maker
Rating: 9.3/10
Craving a rich, authentic espresso but don’t want the hassle? The LAOION Cuban Coffee Maker delivers that classic Italian coffee experience right in your kitchen, and it’s super portable too! It’s designed for ease of use, making delicious coffee without needing a stove. This electric moka pot is a modern take on a beloved brewing method.
What We Like:
- The transparent container lets you watch the magic happen as your espresso brews, adding a fun visual element to your coffee routine.
- It’s incredibly easy and fast to use – just add water and coffee, press a button, and in about 5 minutes, you have a delicious cup.
- Safety is a priority with this maker. It’s made with food-grade materials, and it has two auto-shutoff features to prevent overheating, giving you peace of mind.
- It makes a rich, strong espresso, perfect for those who love a concentrated coffee flavor.
- The detachable base makes it easy to clean and store.
What Could Be Improved:
- The capacity is for small espresso cups, so if you prefer a larger mug of coffee, you might need to brew multiple times.
- While it’s designed to prevent leaks, following the specific tips for filling water and coffee is important to ensure a smooth brewing experience.
This LAOION coffee maker is a fantastic option for anyone who enjoys authentic espresso and values convenience and safety. It’s a great gift for coffee lovers or for upgrading your own home brewing setup.
4. CASABREWS 3700 Essential Espresso Machine 20 Bar
Rating: 8.9/10
Dreaming of café-quality coffee at home? The CASABREWS 3700 Essential Espresso Machine brings the barista experience right to your kitchen. This sleek, silver machine boasts a professional 20-bar pressure system, perfect for crafting everything from rich espressos to creamy lattes and cappuccinos. Its stylish stainless steel design fits beautifully into any kitchen, making it a practical and attractive addition for any coffee lover.
What We Like:
- You can make your favorite espresso drinks like lattes and cappuccinos at home.
- It has a professional 20-bar pressure system for great tasting coffee.
- The powerful steam wand creates lovely micro-foam for latte art.
- The machine is compact and stylish, fitting in any kitchen.
- The large 43.9 oz water tank means fewer refills.
- It comes with everything you need to start brewing.
What Could Be Improved:
- It requires a “First use cycle” which takes a little extra time initially.
- You’ll need to refer to the instruction manual or online videos for best results.
This CASABREWS espresso machine is a fantastic way to enjoy barista-style coffee without leaving your home. It’s a solid choice for anyone wanting to elevate their daily coffee ritual.
5. CHULUX Slim Espresso Machine with Milk Frother Steam Wand
Rating: 8.9/10
Dreaming of delicious cappuccinos and lattes without leaving your kitchen? The CHULUX Slim Espresso Machine is here to make that dream a reality. This compact powerhouse brings professional-quality espresso right to your home. It’s designed for both coffee enthusiasts and those just starting their espresso journey, offering a simple way to create café-style drinks.
What We Like:
- It uses a 20-bar Italian pump, which helps you get rich, flavorful espresso with a nice crema.
- The machine heats up super fast, in just 30 seconds, so you can make your coffee quickly.
- It has a powerful steam wand that makes fluffy foam for lattes and cappuccinos.
- All the parts that touch your coffee and water are made from safe, food-grade materials.
- Its slim design, only 5.5 inches wide, saves a lot of counter space.
- The machine is easy to use, even for beginners, and has a clear pressure gauge to show you what’s happening.
- A large 40 oz water tank means you don’t have to refill it often.
- It automatically shuts off after 25 minutes of no use, which is good for saving energy.
- The removable drip tray makes cleaning up a breeze.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it’s great for making espresso-based drinks, it might not be the best choice for brewing plain black coffee.
- The semi-automatic operation means you still need to learn a bit about tamping the coffee grounds correctly for the best results.
This CHULUX espresso machine is a fantastic option for anyone wanting to enjoy quality coffee at home. It balances ease of use with impressive features, making it a smart choice for your daily coffee ritual.
The Ultimate Buying Guide: Your Espresso Dream on a Budget
Finding a good espresso machine for under $100 can feel like a treasure hunt. Many people think you need to spend a lot of money for a decent cup of espresso. But that’s not always true! With a little know-how, you can find a machine that makes tasty espresso without breaking the bank. This guide will help you find the best espresso machine for your money.
Key Features to Look For
When you’re shopping for an espresso machine under $100, keep these important features in mind:
- Type of Machine: Most machines in this price range are manual or steam-powered. Manual machines give you more control, but steam-powered ones are easier to use.
- Pressure: Espresso needs good pressure to extract flavor. Look for machines that mention pressure, even if it’s not the highest.
- Portafilter Size: This is where you put your coffee grounds. A standard size makes it easier to find accessories later.
- Water Tank Size: A larger tank means you can make more drinks before refilling.
- Ease of Cleaning: You’ll want a machine that’s simple to clean. Removable parts make this much easier.
- Included Accessories: Some machines come with a tamper (to press the coffee) or a milk frother. These extras can save you money.
Important Materials
The materials used in your espresso machine affect its durability and how it heats up.
- Stainless Steel: This is a good material for parts that heat up, like the boiler. It’s strong and heats evenly.
- Plastic: Many parts, like the water tank and housing, are made of plastic. Look for sturdy, BPA-free plastic.
- Aluminum: Some boilers might be made of aluminum. It heats up quickly but can sometimes affect the taste of the espresso.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several things can make your espresso machine better or worse.
- Build Quality: A machine that feels solid and well-made will last longer. Wobbly parts or thin plastic can be a sign of lower quality.
- Temperature Stability: Espresso machines need to maintain a steady temperature for good extraction. Cheaper machines might struggle with this.
- Ease of Use: A machine that’s confusing to operate will be frustrating. Simple controls are a big plus.
- Brand Reputation: Some brands are known for making reliable coffee machines, even at lower price points. Doing a quick search about the brand can be helpful.
User Experience and Use Cases
Who is an espresso machine under $100 best for?
- Beginners: If you’re new to making espresso, these machines are a great way to start. You can learn the basics without spending a lot.
- Occasional Drinkers: If you only have one or two espresso drinks a week, a budget machine is perfect.
- Dorm Rooms or Small Kitchens: Their small size makes them ideal for limited spaces.
- Experimentation: Want to try different coffee beans or brewing methods? A cheaper machine lets you experiment freely.
These machines are great for making simple espresso shots. They can also be used to make milk-based drinks like lattes and cappuccinos if they have a frothing wand. While they might not produce café-quality espresso, they offer a satisfying experience for the price.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I really get good espresso from a machine under $100?
A: Yes, you can make decent espresso. It might not be as rich or smooth as from expensive machines, but it will be enjoyable.
Q: What type of espresso machine is most common under $100?
A: You’ll mostly find manual lever machines or steam-powered machines in this price range.
Q: What does “pressure” mean for an espresso machine?
A: Pressure is what forces hot water through the coffee grounds. Espresso needs good pressure to extract the best flavor.
Q: Is a portafilter important?
A: Yes, the portafilter holds the coffee. A standard size makes it easier to find accessories if you need them.
Q: How important is the water tank size?
A: A larger tank means you can make more drinks before stopping to refill the water.
Q: Should I worry about the materials used?
A: Yes, look for stainless steel for heating parts and sturdy, BPA-free plastic for other components.
Q: What are the benefits of a manual espresso machine?
A: Manual machines give you more control over the brewing process, which can lead to better-tasting espresso if you learn to use them well.
Q: Are these machines good for making lattes?
A: Many come with a frothing wand, allowing you to steam and froth milk for lattes and cappuccinos.
Q: How do I clean an espresso machine under $100?
A: Look for machines with removable parts, like the drip tray and portafilter, as they are much easier to clean.
Q: What if the machine doesn’t work well?
A: Always check the warranty and return policy before buying. This protects you if the machine has issues.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Hi, I’m Scott Fischer, the voice behind SliceItRight. My passion for food started in my grandmother’s kitchen, where I learned the art of slicing, dicing, and creating delicious meals. Over the years, I’ve explored everything from the perfect kitchen gadgets to mastering culinary techniques, and I’m here to share all of it with you. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced home chef, my goal is to make cooking easier, more enjoyable, and a lot more fun. So, let’s slice it right and cook up something amazing together!