Imagine waking up to the rich aroma of freshly brewed coffee, but your wallet feels a little light. Does that sound familiar? Many of us love our morning cup, but the idea of spending a lot on a coffee maker can make us pause.
Choosing the cheapest coffee maker isn’t always easy. You want something that makes good coffee without costing too much. It can be confusing to figure out which one is the best deal. You might worry about getting a bad machine that breaks quickly or makes terrible coffee. Nobody wants to waste money on something that doesn’t work well.
But don’t worry! By reading on, you’ll discover how to find a fantastic coffee maker that won’t break the bank. We’ll break down what to look for so you can enjoy delicious coffee every day without spending a fortune. Get ready to find your perfect budget-friendly brew buddy!
Our Top 5 Cheapest Coffee Maker Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Cheapest Coffee Maker Detailed Reviews
1. Elite Gourmet EHC4128 Automatic 4-Cup Brew & Drip Coffee Maker with Pause N Serve
Rating: 9.4/10
The Elite Gourmet EHC4128 Automatic 4-Cup Brew & Drip Coffee Maker is a compact and convenient way to make your morning coffee. It’s designed for people who enjoy a fresh cup or two without the fuss of a larger machine. This coffee maker fits easily on any countertop and is simple to operate, making it ideal for solo coffee drinkers or small households.
What We Like:
- The semi-transparent water reservoir has a clear level indicator so you always know how much water to add for up to 4 cups of coffee.
- A 4-cup glass carafe brews the perfect amount for one person or to share with a friend.
- The Pause ‘N Serve feature lets you grab a cup mid-brew if you can’t wait for the whole pot.
- The Keep Warm function automatically keeps your coffee hot after brewing.
- It includes a reusable filter basket, which is eco-friendly and saves you money on paper filters.
- The simple On/Off switch makes it easy to use.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 4-cup capacity might be too small for families or larger gatherings.
- Some users might prefer a programmable timer for coffee ready when they wake up.
This coffee maker is a solid choice for anyone seeking a straightforward and efficient way to brew coffee daily. It delivers fresh, hot coffee with user-friendly features.
2. BLACK+DECKER 12-Cup Coffee Maker with Easy On/Off Switch
Rating: 9.4/10
Wake up to delicious, full-flavored coffee every morning with the BLACK+DECKER 12-Cup Coffee Maker. This coffee maker makes brewing easy and enjoyable, from its simple operation to its mess-free pouring. Its sleek black design fits nicely in any kitchen.
What We Like:
- Vortex Technology ensures rich flavor by evenly wetting coffee grounds.
- Sneak-A-Cup lets you grab a cup before brewing finishes.
- The No-Drip Perfect Pour Spout prevents spills and drips.
- The removable filter basket is dishwasher-safe for easy cleaning.
- The Keep Hot Carafe Plate keeps your coffee warm.
- The Easy On/Off switch is simple to use.
What Could Be Improved:
- The Sneak-A-Cup feature requires returning the carafe within 30 seconds to avoid overflow.
This coffee maker is a fantastic choice for anyone who loves a good cup of coffee without any fuss. It delivers great taste and convenience for your daily routine.
3. BLACK+DECKER 12-Cup Digital Coffee Maker
Rating: 9.3/10
Wake up to the perfect cup of coffee every morning with the BLACK+DECKER 12-Cup Digital Coffee Maker. This black, programmable coffee maker is designed to make your coffee routine a breeze. It features a durable glass carafe, digital controls, and a handy Sneak-A-Cup feature. Plus, the Auto Brew function means your coffee is ready when you are.
What We Like:
- The 12-cup Duralife glass carafe is strong and has clear measurement markings.
- The easy-grip handle makes pouring coffee simple and comfortable.
- The Sneak-A-Cup feature lets you grab a cup before brewing finishes without any drips.
- The easy-view water window shows you exactly how much water you’re adding.
- Digital controls with a rubberized feel are easy to use.
- The screen clearly shows the clock and brewing times.
- QuickTouch Programming lets you set the Auto Brew for 24 hours.
- The 2-Hour Auto Shutoff provides extra safety.
- The Keep Hot Plate keeps your coffee warm.
- The washable basket filter is convenient for cleaning.
What Could Be Improved:
- The “cup” size is a bit smaller than standard mugs (about 5 ounces).
This BLACK+DECKER coffee maker is a reliable and user-friendly choice for anyone who loves a fresh pot of coffee. It offers great convenience and smart features for your daily brew.
4. IMUSA USA B120-42V Aluminum Espresso Stovetop Coffeemaker 3-Cup
Rating: 9.5/10
Craving a rich, authentic espresso without a fancy machine? The IMUSA USA B120-42V Aluminum Espresso Stovetop Coffeemaker is your answer! This silver, 3-cup maker brews delicious espresso right on your stovetop, bringing Italian coffee traditions to your kitchen. Its durable aluminum body keeps your coffee warm, and the cool-touch handle and knob make it safe and easy to use. Plus, its small size makes it perfect for sharing a cup or two with a friend.
What We Like:
- Durable aluminum construction keeps coffee warm.
- Cool-touch handle and knob ensure safe handling.
- Compact and portable design is great for sharing.
- Flip-up top and side pour spout make serving simple.
- Detaches easily for quick cleaning.
- Ideal for making authentic espresso at home.
What Could Be Improved:
- Brewing success depends on proper grind size, coffee amount, and tamping.
- Espresso extraction amount can vary, potentially needing adjustments.
- Requires hand washing only.
For simple, delicious espresso made on your stovetop, the IMUSA USA coffeemaker is a wonderful choice. It delivers great flavor and convenience for any coffee lover.
5. Gourmia Drip Coffee Maker – 12 Cup
Rating: 9.0/10
The Gourmia Drip Coffee Maker is a sleek, black appliance with modern stainless steel accents that fits nicely on any kitchen counter. It’s designed for simplicity, making it a great addition for anyone who loves a good cup of coffee without a lot of fuss. Whether you’re brewing for yourself or for a group, this coffee maker handles it all with ease.
What We Like:
- Brewing coffee is super fast and easy with the one-touch operation. It saves you time, especially on busy mornings.
- It makes up to 12 cups of coffee. This is perfect for when you’re alone or when you have family and friends over.
- The Pause & Serve feature lets you grab a cup of coffee before the whole pot is done brewing. No more waiting!
- The automatic keep warm function keeps your coffee hot and ready to drink for a good while.
- Cleaning is simple thanks to the nonstick warming plate. The easy-view water window makes it easy to see how much water you’re adding.
- Its compact design doesn’t take up too much counter space.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the one-touch operation is simple, some users might prefer more control over brew strength or temperature settings.
- The automatic keep warm feature might make the coffee taste a little burnt if left on for extended periods.
This Gourmia coffee maker is a solid choice for those seeking convenience and a good-tasting cup of coffee. It’s a reliable appliance that simplifies your morning routine.
Your Guide to Finding the Cheapest Coffee Maker That Still Makes Great Coffee
Looking for a coffee maker that won’t break the bank? You’re in the right place! Finding a cheap coffee maker doesn’t mean you have to settle for bad coffee. We’ll help you navigate the options and find a great brew without spending a lot of money.
1. Key Features to Look For
When you’re shopping for a budget-friendly coffee maker, keep these important features in mind:
- Brewing Capacity: How much coffee do you need at once? Most cheap makers brew 4-12 cups. A smaller size is good for one or two people. A larger size is better for families or when you have guests.
- Programmable Timer: This lets you set the machine to start brewing at a specific time. Imagine waking up to fresh coffee! It’s a handy feature, even on basic models.
- Auto Shut-off: Safety first! This feature turns the coffee maker off automatically after a set time. It gives you peace of mind, especially if you sometimes forget to unplug things.
- Pause and Serve: This lets you grab a cup of coffee mid-brew. It’s perfect for those impatient mornings when you need a caffeine fix right away.
- Removable Filter Basket: This makes cleaning much easier. You can just pop out the basket and rinse it.
2. Important Materials
The materials used in a coffee maker can affect its durability and how it brews. For budget models, you’ll mostly see:
- Plastic: Most external parts are made of durable plastic. Look for BPA-free plastic, which is safer for your health.
- Glass: The carafe (the pot that holds the coffee) is usually made of glass. Tempered glass is stronger and resists heat better.
- Stainless Steel: Some models might have a few stainless steel accents, like the warming plate. This material is strong and looks nice.
3. Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Even with cheap coffee makers, some things make a big difference in how good your coffee tastes and how long the machine lasts.
Factors That Improve Quality:
- Water Filtration: Some models have a basic water filter. This can remove impurities from the water, making your coffee taste cleaner.
- Brewing Temperature: While harder to control on cheap models, a slightly hotter brewing temperature (around 195-205°F or 90-96°C) can extract more flavor from the coffee grounds.
- Even Water Distribution: A good showerhead design helps water flow evenly over the coffee grounds. This ensures all the grounds get wet, leading to better flavor.
Factors That Reduce Quality:
- Cheap Plastic: Some plastics can give your coffee a slightly plasticky taste. Always look for BPA-free.
- Poor Insulation: If the carafe isn’t well-insulated, your coffee might get cold quickly.
- Weak Heating Element: A weak heating element might not get the water hot enough, resulting in weak or sour coffee.
4. User Experience and Use Cases
A cheap coffee maker should be easy to use. You want a simple setup and straightforward controls. Most basic models have just a few buttons.
Who are these coffee makers for?
- Students: Perfect for dorm rooms or small apartments where space and budget are tight.
- First-time Coffee Drinkers: A great way to start making coffee at home without a big investment.
- Occasional Coffee Drinkers: If you only drink coffee once in a while, a cheap maker is all you need.
- Offices or Break Rooms: For places where many people need coffee, a simple, affordable machine is ideal.
The user experience is usually very simple: add water, add grounds, press a button. Cleaning is also typically easy, especially with a removable filter basket.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Cheapest Coffee Makers
Q: What is the cheapest type of coffee maker?
A: Drip coffee makers are generally the cheapest. They are simple machines that heat water and pour it over coffee grounds.
Q: Can a cheap coffee maker make good coffee?
A: Yes! If you use good quality coffee grounds and fresh water, even a cheap coffee maker can make a delicious cup.
Q: What size coffee maker should I get?
A: Think about how many cups you usually drink. A 4-cup maker is good for one person, while a 10-12 cup maker is better for families or sharing.
Q: Is it worth buying a programmable coffee maker if I’m on a budget?
A: If you like waking up to coffee, then yes! Many affordable coffee makers have this feature. It adds a lot of convenience.
Q: How do I clean a cheap coffee maker?
A: Most have a removable filter basket you can wash. You can also run a cycle with water and vinegar to clean the inside. Always check the manual for specific cleaning instructions.
Q: What does “BPA-free” mean?
A: BPA is a chemical. “BPA-free” means the plastic used in the coffee maker does not contain this chemical, which is safer for your health.
Q: Will a cheap coffee maker last a long time?
A: It depends on how well you take care of it. Following cleaning instructions and not using it too roughly will help it last longer.
Q: Can I use paper filters or a permanent filter with a cheap coffee maker?
A: Most cheap drip coffee makers use standard paper filters. Some come with a permanent mesh filter, which you can reuse.
Q: What if my cheap coffee maker doesn’t brew hot coffee?
A: This can happen if the heating element is weak. Try preheating your mug or using hotter water to start. If it’s consistently too cool, it might be a sign of a lower-quality machine.
Q: Where can I find the cheapest coffee makers?
A: You can find them at discount stores, large retail chains, and online marketplaces. Look for sales and compare prices.
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!