Imagine waking up to the rich aroma of freshly brewed espresso, just like you get at your favorite coffee shop. But what if you could have that delightful experience without spending a fortune? Many people dream of making delicious espresso drinks at home, but they think fancy machines cost too much. It’s true, some espresso machines can be very expensive, and finding a good one for under $100 feels almost impossible. You might feel overwhelmed by all the choices, unsure which one will actually make a decent cup of coffee.
The good news is that you don’t need to break the bank to enjoy great espresso. In this post, we’ll explore some fantastic espresso machines that won’t empty your wallet. We’ll look at what makes them great and help you understand what to look for. By the end, you’ll be ready to pick the perfect machine to start your home barista journey. Get ready to discover how to make your morning coffee routine a lot more exciting and affordable!
Our Top 5 Espresso Machine Under 100 Dollars Recommendations at a Glance
| Image | Product | Rating | Links |
|---|---|---|---|
 |
De’Longhi Stilosa Manual Espresso Machine | 9.2/10 | Check Price |
 |
IMUSA USA GAU-18202 4 Cup Espresso/Cappuccino Maker | 9.0/10 | Check Price |
 |
XIXUBX Espresso Machine | 8.7/10 | Check Price |
 |
Chefman CraftBrew Espresso Machine | 9.4/10 | Check Price |
 |
SOWTECH Coffee Machine | 8.7/10 | Check Price |
Top 5 Espresso Machine Under 100 Dollars Detailed Reviews
1. De’Longhi Stilosa Manual Espresso Machine
Rating: 9.1/10
The De’Longhi Stilosa Manual Espresso Machine brings authentic coffee shop drinks right to your kitchen. Its sleek, modern design fits perfectly on any counter without taking up a lot of room. This machine makes it simple to brew rich single or double espressos. You can also create creamy lattes and cappuccinos with its easy-to-use milk frother. It’s built to last, so you can enjoy great coffee for years to come. Plus, it comes with everything you need to get started, including a tamper and filters for different shot sizes. The adjustable cup holder means you can use your favorite mug.
What We Like:
- Its compact and stylish design looks great in any kitchen.
- The 15 BAR pump ensures your espresso is always rich and full of flavor.
- The manual milk frother lets you easily make frothy milk for your favorite drinks.
- The durable stainless steel boiler is built for long-lasting performance.
- It includes a portafilter with filters for both single and double shots.
- The two-level cup holder accommodates various cup sizes.
- It’s easy to clean.
What Could Be Improved:
- The manual nature means you need to be more involved in the brewing process.
- For beginners, learning to froth milk perfectly might take a little practice.
This De’Longhi Stilosa is a fantastic choice for anyone wanting to make delicious espresso-based drinks at home. It offers a great balance of style, performance, and ease of use.
2. IMUSA USA GAU-18202 4 Cup Espresso/Cappuccino Maker
Rating: 9.2/10
The IMUSA USA GAU-18202 is a compact and stylish espresso and cappuccino maker designed for home use. Its sleek black finish adds a touch of modern elegance to any kitchen counter. This machine brews up to 4 cups of rich espresso, perfect for kickstarting your morning or enjoying an afternoon pick-me-up. It also froths milk, allowing you to create creamy cappuccinos and lattes right in your own home.
What We Like:
- It makes delicious espresso and frothy milk.
- The machine is easy to operate for beginners.
- Its compact size saves valuable counter space.
- The black color looks very nice.
- It’s an affordable option for home baristas.
What Could Be Improved:
- The brewing process can be a bit slow at times.
- Cleaning the frothing wand requires careful attention.
- Some users might find the 4-cup capacity limiting for larger gatherings.
- A clearer indicator for when the machine is ready could be helpful.
For those new to this machine, it’s important to read the user guide before your first use. This simple espresso maker delivers great flavor and a satisfying coffee experience.
3. XIXUBX Espresso Machine
Rating: 8.9/10
The XIXUBX Espresso Machine is a compact and powerful coffee maker designed to bring the café experience right into your home. Whether you crave a rich espresso, a creamy latte, or a frothy cappuccino, this machine is built to deliver. Its sleek black design fits perfectly into any kitchen, and it comes with everything you need to start brewing delicious coffee right away. It’s a fantastic gift for any coffee lover.
What We Like:
- 20-Bar Café Pressure: This machine uses a 20-bar pump to create rich espresso with a beautiful crema, just like you get at a coffee shop.
- PID Temperature Control: The advanced temperature control keeps the water at the perfect, steady heat for a consistently great-tasting coffee.
- Powerful Steam Wand: You can easily make silky smooth microfoam for lattes and cappuccinos with the strong steam wand.
- Compact and Quick: It heats up in about 60 seconds and brews espresso in around 22 seconds, so you get your coffee fix fast. Its small size is great for any kitchen counter.
- Complete Kit and Support: The machine includes single and double shot filters, and there are helpful tutorial videos and customer service available to guide you.
What Could Be Improved:
- Initial Setup Guidance: While tutorials are available, some users might find the initial setup slightly complex, especially the “machine not starting” troubleshooting steps if not followed precisely.
- Learning Curve for Frothing: Achieving perfect microfoam with the steam wand may take a little practice, although tutorials are provided.
This XIXUBX Espresso Machine offers a fantastic way to enjoy barista-quality coffee at home. With its user-friendly features and excellent performance, it’s a great addition to any coffee lover’s kitchen.
4. Chefman CraftBrew Espresso Machine
Rating: 8.8/10
Dreaming of café-quality espresso without leaving your kitchen? The Chefman CraftBrew Espresso Machine makes it a reality. This sleek, stainless-steel machine packs a powerful 15-BAR pump to deliver rich, bold espresso shots. Plus, its built-in steam wand lets you whip up creamy lattes and frothy cappuccinos with ease. It’s designed to be your personal barista, offering customizability for your perfect cup, all in a compact design that looks great on any countertop.
What We Like:
- It brews delicious, café-quality espresso and milk-based drinks.
- You can customize your shot volume for a perfect brew.
- The 1.5-liter water tank is spacious and easy to remove for refilling and cleaning.
- Its compact and stylish stainless-steel design fits well in any kitchen.
- It comes with advanced safety features and a 1-year assurance from Chefman.
What Could Be Improved:
- The digital display might take a little getting used to for some users.
- While it’s compact, it still requires dedicated counter space.
This Chefman CraftBrew Espresso Machine is an excellent choice for anyone who loves a great cup of coffee. It brings the coffee shop experience right to your home.
5. SOWTECH Coffee Machine
Rating: 9.5/10
Craving a delicious latte or a rich espresso at home? The SOWTECH Coffee Machine, 3.5 Bar Espresso Cappuccino Machine with Milk Frother, 1-4 Cup Portable Coffee Maker for Latte, Cappuccino, 800W, Black offers a simple way to make your favorite coffee drinks. This compact machine is designed for ease of use and quick preparation, making it a great addition to any kitchen, especially if counter space is tight.
What We Like:
- Fast Brewing: The 800W heating system brews coffee quickly, so you get your drink in just a few minutes.
- Easy Frothing: The powerful steam wand makes creamy milk foam for cappuccinos and lattes. It even has a safety tube to prevent burns.
- Durable Cups: It comes with shatterproof, BPA-free Tritan cups that are safe and easy to use. The cups have clear markings for perfect measurements.
- Compact Size: This machine is small and lightweight, taking up minimal counter space.
- User-Friendly: With a simple one-button operation and an easy-to-turn knob, it’s perfect for beginners.
What Could Be Improved:
- Steam Wand Tip: The steam wand might need clearing with the included pin if it gets blocked.
- Cleaning: The steam rod needs to be cleaned right after use to prevent clogs.
This SOWTECH coffee machine makes it easy to enjoy café-quality drinks at home. It’s a great choice for anyone looking for a simple, fast, and compact way to make espresso and frothy milk drinks.
Your Guide to Awesome Espresso on a Budget
Finding a great espresso machine under $100 might seem tough, but it’s totally doable! You can make delicious coffee drinks right at home without breaking the bank. This guide will help you pick the best one for your needs.
Key Features to Look For
When you’re shopping for an espresso machine under $100, keep these important features in mind.
1. Type of Machine
- Manual/Moka Pot: These are super simple and use steam pressure to brew coffee. They are usually very affordable and easy to use. They don’t make true espresso but a strong, concentrated coffee.
- Drip Coffee Makers with Espresso Function: Some drip coffee makers have a special setting for espresso. These are convenient if you also want regular coffee.
- Pod Machines: These use pre-packaged coffee pods. They are very easy to use and clean, but the pods can add up in cost over time.
2. Water Reservoir Size
Think about how many cups of coffee you usually make. A bigger reservoir means you won’t have to refill it as often.
3. Brew Strength Control
Some machines let you choose how strong you want your coffee. This is nice for getting your coffee just right.
4. Milk Frother (or lack thereof)
If you love lattes and cappuccinos, look for a machine with a built-in milk frother. If you don’t mind frothing milk separately or don’t use it, you can skip this.
5. Ease of Cleaning
Nobody wants to spend a lot of time cleaning their coffee maker. Removable parts make cleanup much easier.
Important Materials
The materials used in your espresso machine can affect its durability and how it performs.
- Plastic: Most machines in this price range use plastic. Look for BPA-free plastic for safety. Sturdy plastic means your machine will last longer.
- Stainless Steel: Some parts, like the brew basket or filter holder, might be stainless steel. This is durable and easy to clean.
- Glass: If the machine has a carafe, it will likely be made of glass.
Factors That Affect Quality
Even on a budget, some things make a big difference in the quality of your espresso.
- Brewing Pressure: True espresso needs good pressure. Machines under $100 might not achieve the high pressure of expensive models, but some still do a decent job. Moka pots use steam pressure effectively.
- Temperature Stability: The water needs to be at the right temperature to brew coffee well. Cheaper machines might struggle with this.
- Filter Type: A good filter helps make smooth coffee. Some machines use paper filters, while others have reusable metal filters.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about how you’ll use your machine.
- Busy Mornings: A pod machine or a simple drip coffee maker with an espresso function is great for quick coffee.
- Espresso Lovers: If you really love espresso, a Moka pot can give you a strong, satisfying cup.
- Beginners: Simple manual machines or pod machines are perfect for those new to making espresso.
- Small Kitchens: Compact machines take up less counter space.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I really make good espresso for under $100?
A: Yes! While it won’t be exactly like a fancy cafe espresso, you can make strong, delicious coffee drinks that are very satisfying for the price.
Q: What’s the difference between Moka pot coffee and real espresso?
A: Moka pots use steam pressure to brew, which makes a strong coffee. True espresso machines use much higher pressure, creating a thicker crema (foam on top).
Q: Are pod machines worth it for under $100?
A: They are very convenient and easy to use. Just be aware that the cost of pods can add up over time compared to buying ground coffee.
Q: Do I need a milk frother?
A: If you enjoy lattes, cappuccinos, or other milk-based coffee drinks, a frother is helpful. Otherwise, you can skip it.
Q: How do I clean an espresso machine?
A: Most machines have removable parts that you can wash with soap and water. Always check the manual for specific cleaning instructions.
Q: Will a cheaper machine last a long time?
A: Durability depends on the materials and how well you take care of it. Machines with sturdy plastic and simple designs tend to last longer.
Q: Can I use any kind of coffee grounds?
A: For Moka pots and some drip machines, you’ll want a medium to fine grind. Pod machines require specific pods.
Q: What is “crema”?
A: Crema is the reddish-brown foam that sits on top of a well-made espresso. It’s a sign of good espresso.
Q: Are there any safety concerns with budget espresso machines?
A: Always make sure the machine is stable and doesn’t overheat. Look for BPA-free plastics.
Q: Where is the best place to buy an espresso machine under $100?
A: Online retailers like Amazon, Walmart, and Target often have great deals. You can also find them at department stores.
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 Larry Fish, the mind behind MyGrinderGuide.com.. With a passion for all things kitchen appliances, I created this blog to share my hands-on experience and expert knowledge. Whether it’s helping you choose the right tools for your culinary adventures or offering tips to make your kitchen more efficient, I’m here to guide you. My goal is to make your time in the kitchen not only easier but also enjoyable! Welcome to my world of kitchen mastery!