Best Espresso Machine Under 100
A quality cup of espresso is what I need to start my day but going out every day to buy a cup doesn’t make sense, right? Hence, I took some time out to look for the best espresso machine under 100 that can offer some quality taste and convenience.
When you are talking about buying an espresso machine, you have to consider lots of factors beyond the budget. The taste of the espresso, the size of the machine, and ease of use and cleaning are some of the things that are required to enhance your coffee experience. But that doesn’t mean that you can’t have a high-quality product in a budget.
Therefore, I have compiled a list of best available options under this budget to make you gourmet coffee at home topped with a rich creamy froth.
The Best Espresso Machines Under 100 In 2020
PRODUCT |
WATER CAPACITY |
BEST FOR |
HIGHLIGHTED FEATURES |
|
35 oz. | Best Overall |
|
|
32 oz. | Best Budget Pick |
|
|
8.11 oz. | Best Steam |
|
|
40 oz. | Best Frother |
|
1.De’Longhi EC155
Highlighted Features
- Swivel jet frother
- Removable 35-oz. water tank
- Stainless steel boiler
- 2 Thermostats
- Dual function filter holder
De’Longhi is one of the most renowned and trusted brands in the industry with EC155 as one of the best espresso machines under $100. It gives you authentic barista-style espresso quickly and with ease, thanks to its self-priming option. If you want to bring convenience and versatility to your coffee making, then it’s the ultimate choice to make.
Size: If you are looking for a convenient espresso machine to make quality drinks, then De’longhi EC155 can be the best addition to your kitchen. A semi-automatic machine that weighs just 9 pounds with the dimensions of 8” x 11” x 10”, it is good enough to fit in compact spaces.
Performance: It is indeed one of the best espresso machines under $100 and comes with a stainless steel boiler and self-priming option to provide a quick start-up option and 2 thermostats to enjoy the drink at your desired temperature. The dual filter, along with easy serving espresso (ESE) pods, allows for quick brewing without putting in much effort.
Not only is it made for great espresso but quality cappuccino and lattes. The pump pressure of 15 bars coupled with swivel jet frother makes for creamy and delicious froth to top it all.
Cleaning and maintenance: The machines come with a removable 35-oz. water tank with an indicator light and a drip tray to make the cleaning process easy.
You can never go wrong with De’Longhi EC 155 due to its durable structure, trusted brand name and easy functionality to deliver the best.
Pros
- Self-priming option for easy start
- Easy to assemble and clean
- Drip tray for easy cleaning
- Durable boiler
- Dual filter
Cons
- Fragile filter basket
- Small frothing wand
2. Mr. Coffee ECM160 With Milk Frother
Highlighted Features
- Powerful milk frother
- Budget-friendly
- Easy pour glass carafe
- Quality espresso
- Quick preparation time
This is indeed one of the best budget espresso machines that offers great quality with its powerful milk frother. Brew as much as 20 ounces of espresso in quick time with its steam heat system. The good news is you can enjoy dark and rich espresso on a budget with this product.
Size: Mr. Coffee 4 Cup steam espresso system with milk frother is the best quality product that you can get under $100. It is a small and lightweight product with the dimensions of 8 x 6.5 x 10.5 inches that won’t take much room in your kitchen.
Performance: This machine comes with a steam heat system which makes for dark and rich espresso quickly. You can brew 20 ounces of espresso and can get 4 cups in minutes without having to wait longer.
The 3 bars of pump pressure along with powerful frother make for creamy and enriching cappuccinos and lattes on any regular day. It also comes with a glass decanter that can hold two cups of coffee.
Cleaning and maintenance: The impressive thing about this machine is that it comes with a drip-free spout and a stay-cool holder due to which you won’t ever end up with a mess while brewing your coffee. The easy-pour decanter also ensures that the surface remains tidy.
All in all, this espresso machine will bring you amazing quality espressos, cappuccinos, and lattes in a compact design and budget
Pros
- Easy to use
- Easy to clean
- Removable drip tray
- Stay-cool handle and drip-free spout
Cons
- No removable water tank
- Not durable
3. Sowtech With Steam Milk Frother
Highlighted Features
- Budget-friendly
- Easy to operate knob
- Removable drip catcher
- Efficient temperature control
Sowtech 4 cup espresso machine is a pocket-friendly option and is one of the best steam espresso machines that you might come across. It offers quick brewing and comes with all the tools needed for brewing different types of coffee. Despite its small size, it can brew 4 cups of espresso in a row which makes it a great choice to go for.
Size: This is one of the best steam espresso machines that you can get at an affordable price. The compact design has a small footprint with dimensions of 10.6 x 7.7 x 13.8 inches to fit in small kitchens and weighs 4.35 pounds.
Performance: A perfect combo of great efficiency and quality is what you will get out of this espresso machine. The 3.5 bar pressure allows you to make up to 4 cups of espresso and only takes 5 minutes to start brewing. With its efficient temperature control and easy-pour glass, you will have the perfect taste to kick-start your morning on a high note.
The single knob switch makes it easy to use and comes with indicator light. Not only this, the steam espresso machine also comes with additional tools to make the perfect creamy espresso with its carafe, frothing wand, and a tamper, to give your drinks that velvety touch.
Cleaning and maintenance: The washable and removable drip catcher ensures that your space remains clean and tidy. So you can enjoy your perfect espresso shot with less worry regarding clean-up in an affordable range.
When it comes to steam espresso machines, this is considered as one of the best and can be considered for making top quality espresso at home
Pros
- Portable design
- Easy to clean
- Single-use knob
- Comes with measuring scoop, a tamper, and carafe
Cons
- Doesn’t have large capacity
- Less pump pressure than others
4. Hamilton Beach 40715
Highlighted Features
- Dual shot brewing
- Compatible with pods
- Compatible with ground coffee
- 15 Bar italian pump
- Steam wand
- Push-button operation
- Led indicator lights
- Powerful frother
Hamilton Beach 40715 brings you the ease to use and affordability for brewing your favorite drinks at home. Its high Italian pump pressure along with steam wand makes for an indulgent experience without compromising on the budget.
Size: The machine is small and the dimensions of 13 x 8.2 x 12.3 inches are ideal to be placed at kitchen counters without compromising the space. The silver and sleek body adds to the overall kitchen decor and weighs 8 pounds.
Performance: When it comes to performance, this small machine boasts a 15 bar Italian pump pressure to give the perfect espresso shot. With a large water tank capacity of 40 ounces, it is ideal for brewing for a crowd without refilling and also because of its capacity to brew two shots at once.
Unlike many other low budget machines, Hamilton Beach 40715 comes with a steam wand to add some nice rich crema to different types of coffee.
It also provides you with enough ease to operate with its push buttons and LED indicator lights to control the power and temperature. Not only this, you have the choice to either use coffee pods or ground coffee.
Cleaning and maintenance: The cleaning becomes easy with this espresso machine because it comes with a removable water tank and drip tray. It also features a frothing nozzle, brew head and cup rest which can be removed and cleaned to prevent further clogging of the machine.
The ease to use coupled with optimum functionality is what makes this espresso machine a reliable choice among its competitors under a limited budget.
Pros
- Premium quality espresso
- Easy to use
- Brews different types of coffee
- Easy to clean and maintain
- Can brew two cups of espresso at a time
- Comes with a steam wand
Cons
- Slow to start
- Makes too much noise
5. Mr. Coffee Automatic Dual Shot
Highlighted Features
- Dual shot brewing
- 15 bar pressure pump
- Thermal block heater
- Removable 40 oz. water tank
- Single and double cup portafilters
A classic brand to provide the high pressure necessary for brewing quality espressos at home. This machine will bring ease of brewing two shots at once and its thermal block heating system will make for quick and easy brewing.
Size: Mr. Coffee is a trusted brand in the brewing industry and this model is perfect for brewing a quality espresso. The aesthetically pleasing design comes in the dimension of 11.4 x 13.7 x 13 inches and weighs around 9 pounds.
Performance: Ranked as one of the best cheap espresso machines under $100, Mr. Coffee Dual Shot comes with a high 15 bar pump pressure and a powered milk frother to brew rich and crème topped espressos.
If you are looking for quality taste in a jiffy, then this espresso maker is a perfect choice. The thermal block heater ensures that your espresso is ready quickly while maintaining its taste and quality.
With a high capacity water tank of 40 oz. and tampering tools, you can never go wrong with buying this affordable espresso machine under.
Cleaning and maintenance: The espresso machine comes with a removable water tank and a drip tray so easy cleaning and maintenance without putting in much effort is a certainty.
This is indeed one of my best budget picks in the espresso machines due to its high performance and convenience.
Pros
- Quick to brew
- Removable water tank
- One-touch steam control
- Thermal block heating system
- Easy to clean
Cons
- Portafilter gets clogged
- Weighs more than others
6. Wacaco Minipresso GR
Highlighted Features
- Handheld design
- No battery/electricity required
- Easy to operate
- Semi-automatic piston
- Built-in espresso cup and scoop
Wacaco minipresso is the perfect travel companion that you have been longing for. A portable design with high performance gives you the ease to make your coffee on the go without battery or electricity, and has a semi-automatic piston.
Size: Wacaco minipresso is indeed the smallest handheld machine to accompany you on your adventures with dimensions of 6.89×2.75×2.36 inches and weighs just 0.8 pounds, making it the most portable option.
Performance: Although it is the smallest but when it comes to functionality, it boasts high performance and quality. With 8 bar pump pressure, it can produce over 2 ounces of espresso.
The impressive thing about it is you don’t need a battery or electricity to operate it as it comes with a semi-automatic piston which makes pumping easy. You just need to add the ground coffee beans to the filter basket and hot water to get that rich espresso topped with a nice cream.
Cleaning and maintenance: The cap of the machine can be used as a cup and is easy to clean. The retractable priming handle makes it easy to clean and store.
A handy, reliable and portable coffee maker perfect for outdoor adventures and home for making desirable coffee drinks with ease. However, the downside is the plastic construction which may not last very long. Also, there is only one shot of espresso made so it is fit only for individual use.
Pros
- Easy to operate
- Perfect for outdoor adventures
- 30 days refund or replacement option
- Compatible with Nespresso capsules
- Hand operated
Cons
- Doesn’t have high capacity
- Not very durable
7. Aicook 6816
Highlighted Features
- User friendly design
- Removable drip tray
- Built-in frother
- Single switch knob
- Easy pour glass decanter
Aicook 3.5 bar espresso and coffee machine ensures that you don’t compromise on quality and convenience within budget. The small machine fits in compact spaces and can brew 4 cups of espresso at a time. Now you can enjoy making your favorite espresso, cappuccino, and latte with ease at home with a single switch knob.
Size: The Aicook is a perfect choice for the casual coffee lover who would love to enjoy homemade coffee with ease. With dimensions of 10 x 7.7 x 13.1 inches, it weighs only 3.4 pounds which makes it easy to transport and fit in small spaces. The only downside is the plastic body which won’t last longer than other stainless steel products.
Performance: The best part about it is the ease of use that it provides with a single switch knob and the built-in steam wand makes for perfect brewing. Although the 3.5 bar pressure won’t make you a barista-style coffee but it is indeed a good choice to serve you a good coffee at home.
The safety clip that comes with it provides you ease to operate. The machine can make you 4 cups of coffee at a time which is really impressive for this size. It also comes with a permanent filter basket which in other cases you have to buy.
Cleaning and maintenance: The machine features a detachable funnel device and drip tray which makes it easy to clean and doesn’t consume much time.
If you are looking for a budget-friendly option to make yourself some espresso, cappuccino, and lattes at home, then Aicook is a good fit to meet your daily needs.
Pros
- Easy to operate
- Easy to clean
- Lightweight and compact
- Trusted brand
- Permanent filter basket
Cons
- Plastic body
- Doesn’t support fine grind
Things To Look For Before Buying!
Now that you know about these models, you must be wondering what sets the best apart from the rest? Well, there are certain factors that are important in determining the outcome of your espresso maker and you must pay heed to them when buying your next espresso machine.
These factors are listed below:
- Should have a quality construction
- Must be compact in size
- Easy to clean
- Easy to use- Preferably one-touch operation
- Quick preparation time
- Efficient pressure and temperature control
Buying Guide
What You Need To Know Before Buying An Espresso Machine
Buying an espresso machine is not a simple task. You have to understand the difference between different types of machines available in the market and evaluate the best according to your need.
Is It Manual, Semi-Automatic Or Automatic?
The espresso machines can come in different types including manual, semi-automatic, fully automatic and super automatic. The manual, fully automatic and super automatic machines provide for a greater control over the taste and aroma, the only drawback being that they are on a bit expensive side. The good news is, you can always find many semi-automatic products to give you quality taste and convenience in your budget.
Which Is Better: Piston, Steam Or Pump Driven?
There is another classification for espresso machines based on the drive mechanism that uses pressure to force water through the coffee. It can be piston-driven, steam-driven or pump-driven. Ideally, the pump-driven one provides the best pressure and temperature control, but the steam and piston-driven also make a fine cup of espresso. But if you are looking for enriching taste, then pump-driven is far better to go for.
Other Important Factors To Consider:
Durability:
The build of the machine makes for a decisive factor as you would definitely want one that lasts a good while and comes with a genuine warranty. The espresso maker comes in different materials including stainless steel, plastic, and glass. If you want a durable product, then stainless steel can be your best bet as it doesn’t corrode and lasts longer. However, the construction of the machine is often related to the cost; with quality material comes a higher price tag.
Size:
The espresso machines come in varying sizes and you need to keep your requirements in mind when setting out to buy one. Depending on your accessibility and space, you can choose from portable to large ones. If you have a small kitchen space, then go for a lighter and smaller product.
Ease of use:
Many semi-automatic products come with the ease of a one-touch button for making the perfect quality espresso. Be sure to know how much effort you can put into brewing the perfect cup of coffee and the operating time the product requires. I would recommend going for single touch buttons as it can enable effective temperature control and quality.
Ease of cleaning:
Most of the products come with a removable and washable drip tray which makes cleaning easy. If you want to save your time with the cleaning, go for a product that has a removable water tank and is dishwasher safe.
Frothing capability:
If you are a pure espresso person, then you might not want a frothing wand and can get a cheap machine. But if you are like me and want to use your espresso machine to make creamy cappuccinos, macchiato, and lattes, then buy one with a frothing wand.
Water Storage:
The capacity to which the espresso maker can store water is essential because it will determine how many shots you can pull out from the machine without worrying about reheating and refilling the tank. The larger the better is the case here.
How Does Pressure Of An Espresso Machine Affect The Preparation Time And Quality?
The pump pressure is an important factor that determines the quality and taste of your drink. The optimal pressure for achieving a high quality drink is 9 bars but if you are looking for a barista style coffee, then go for 15 bars or higher pressure. Not only the pressure determines the quality but also the time taken to make an espresso. A higher pressure will produce a quicker espresso while a low pressure will take more time to make a cup. So go for the one with a higher pressure to enhance the quality of your drink while saving those extra minutes.
Conclusion
As a coffee aficionado myself, I am always on the lookout for trying out new products. After all, what matters most is a good cup of coffee and nothing better than having it in the comfort of your home. So why not save those extra bucks and yourself from standing in long queues every morning?
I have tried to put all the essential information that you might require to understand before buying an espresso machine. Moreover, it will also help you determine what features to look for when buying a star product. Try any of the above mentioned products based on your needs and I can bet that you won’t be disappointed.
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