Craving a delicious cup of joe without breaking the bank? You’re not alone.
Navigating the world of budget-friendly coffee makers can be overwhelming, but finding the right one is crucial for balancing quality and value. A subpar machine can lead to weak brews and frustrating mornings, while a great one can deliver a rich, satisfying coffee experience.
Many turn to online communities for guidance, and the term “best cheap coffee maker reddit” is often searched for. This article delves into the search for the “best cheap coffee maker reddit” recommendations, providing insights to help you make an informed decision.
We understand the importance of getting the most for your money, so we’ve focused on highlighting key features and considerations that separate the worthy contenders from the rest.
IN THIS ARTICLE
Top 10 Best Cheap Coffee Maker Reddit Compared
🏆 BEST OVERALL Holstein Housewares 5 Cup Drip Coffee Maker – Compact and User-Friendly with Auto Pause & Serve
- Compact size ideal for small spaces.
- Auto-pause and anti-drip functions are convenient.
- Easy one-touch operation.
- Reusable nylon filter saves money and reduces waste.
4.7/5
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🥈 2ND RUNNER UP MÜELLERHOME 12-Cup Red Coffee Maker – Perfect for Home or Office
- Large 60oz capacity suitable for multiple servings.
- Durable and odor-resistant borosilicate glass carafe.
- Reusable filter saves money on disposable filters.
- Keep-warm function with automatic shut-off for safety.
4.3/5
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� BEST VALUE IMUSA USA B120-42T Aluminum Stovetop Coffeemaker
- Compact and portable design
- Durable aluminum construction for heat retention
- Cool-touch handle and knob for safe handling
- Practical side pour spout for easy serving
4.5/5
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Amazon Basics Coffee Makers
- Compact design ideal for small spaces.
- Simple one-button operation.
- Warming plate keeps coffee warm.
- Overheat protection for safety.
4.6/5
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BLACK+DECKER 12-Cup Coffee Maker with Easy On/Off Switch
- Vortex technology aims to improve flavor extraction.
- Sneak-A-Cup feature allows for pouring a cup mid-brew.
- No-drip spout minimizes spills.
- Removable filter basket simplifies cleaning.
4.4/5
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Keurig K- Slim Single Serve K-Cup Pod Coffee Maker
- Extremely compact design, suitable for small spaces.
- MultiStream technology potentially improves flavor extraction.
- Removable water reservoir allows for multiple brews.
- Compatible with travel mugs.
4.8/5
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Mixpresso Red Small Percolator Coffee Pot Electric 4 Cup
- Attractive and durable stainless steel design.
- Cool-touch handle ensures safe pouring.
- Ready-to-serve indicator and automatic keep-warm function are convenient.
- Compact size is ideal for small spaces.
4.6/5
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Gourmia Coffee Maker – 5 Cup
- Simple one-touch operation for easy use.
- 5-cup capacity is practical for everyday brewing.
- Pause & Serve feature prevents spills.
- Automatic keep warm function maintains coffee temperature.
4.7/5
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BLACK+DECKER 12-Cup Digital Coffee Maker
- Durable 12-cup Duralife glass carafe with measurement markings.
- Sneak-a-Cup feature minimizes drips during brewing.
- Easy-view water window for accurate filling.
- Intuitive digital controls with rubberized buttons.
4.4/5
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Better Chef Basic Coffee Maker | 12-Cup | Pause-N-
- Convenient grab-a-cup feature.
- Easy-to-clean removable filter basket.
- Helpful water-level indicator.
- Lighted switch provides clear operational status.
4.5/5
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Detailed Reviews of the Best Cheap Coffee Maker Reddit
Holstein Housewares 5 Cup Drip Coffee Maker – Compact and User-Friendly with Auto Pause & Serve – Compact size ideal for small spaces.
This compact drip coffee maker is a decent option for individuals or small households needing a simple and efficient coffee solution. Its 5-cup capacity (750ml) is suitable for personal use or sharing with a few others. The auto-pause and anti-drip features are convenient for quick pours and preventing messes.
The one-touch operation makes it very easy to use, and the reusable nylon filter is a welcome addition for cost savings and reducing waste. The design is relatively modern with stainless steel accents, though its overall build quality may not be the most robust. It comes with a measuring spoon which is a nice little bonus.
Pros
- Compact size ideal for small spaces.
- Auto-pause and anti-drip functions are convenient.
- Easy one-touch operation.
- Reusable nylon filter saves money and reduces waste.
- Includes a measuring spoon.
Cons
- 5-cup capacity might be too small for larger households.
- Build quality might not be the most durable.
MÜELLERHOME 12-Cup Red Coffee Maker – Perfect for Home or Office – Large 60oz capacity suitable for multiple servings.
This coffee maker offers a generous 60oz capacity, capable of brewing up to 12 cups of coffee, making it suitable for households or small offices. The borosilicate glass carafe is a nice touch, promising durability and odor resistance, and is also dishwasher safe for easy cleaning. The inclusion of a reusable filter is a definite plus, potentially saving money on disposable filters, although users can still opt for paper filters if preferred.
The keep-warm function, with its automatic shut-off after 2 hours, provides a degree of safety and convenience. The non-drip carafe and non-slip feet are thoughtful additions that enhance the overall user experience. Overall, this coffee maker seems well-designed with practical features.
Pros
- Large 60oz capacity suitable for multiple servings.
- Durable and odor-resistant borosilicate glass carafe.
- Reusable filter saves money on disposable filters.
- Keep-warm function with automatic shut-off for safety.
- Non-drip carafe and non-slip feet for convenience and stability.
Cons
- The description mentions ‘superior quality’ without specific details on the machine’s components or lifespan.
- The 2-hour auto shut-off may be too short for some users who prefer to keep coffee warm for longer periods.
IMUSA USA B120-42T Aluminum Stovetop Coffeemaker – Compact and portable design
This stovetop espresso maker offers a compact and portable solution for brewing espresso. Its aluminum construction helps retain heat, and the cool-touch handle and knob contribute to safe and easy handling. The 3-cup capacity is suitable for small gatherings or individual use.
The red flip-up top and side pour spout are practical design elements that simplify serving. Keep in mind that achieving optimal brewing pressure requires careful attention to grind size, coffee quantity, and tamping technique. Adjustments to these factors may necessitate reprogramming to extract the desired amount of espresso.
Pros
- Compact and portable design
- Durable aluminum construction for heat retention
- Cool-touch handle and knob for safe handling
- Practical side pour spout for easy serving
- Suitable for making espresso
Cons
- Requires careful attention to grind size, coffee quantity, and tamping for optimal results.
- Only has 3-cup capacity which may not be sufficient for larger groups.
Amazon Basics Coffee Makers – Compact design ideal for small spaces.
This compact coffee maker is designed for small spaces like apartments or offices and brews up to 5 cups of coffee. The operation is straightforward with a simple on/off switch and an indicator light to show when it’s brewing. A warming plate is included to keep the coffee warm after brewing, which is a nice feature.
Safety is addressed with an overheat protection system that prevents dry-boiling. The reusable filter basket is a plus for reducing waste and simplifies the cleaning process. Overall, it seems like a decent, basic coffee maker for those who need a small and easy-to-use appliance.
Pros
- Compact design ideal for small spaces.
- Simple one-button operation.
- Warming plate keeps coffee warm.
- Overheat protection for safety.
- Reusable filter basket for easy cleaning and less waste.
Cons
- 5-cup capacity might be too small for some users.
- Basic features; lacks advanced options like programmable brewing.
BLACK+DECKER 12-Cup Coffee Maker with Easy On/Off Switch – Vortex technology aims to improve flavor extraction.
This coffee maker offers several convenient features aimed at simplifying the brewing process and enhancing the user experience. The “Vortex Technology” promises improved flavor extraction, and while noticeable, the difference may be subtle for casual coffee drinkers. The “Sneak-A-Cup” function is useful for those who can’t wait for the entire pot to brew, though the 30-second limit requires attentiveness.
The no-drip spout does a reasonable job of preventing spills, and the removable filter basket makes cleaning relatively easy. The keep-hot plate maintains coffee at a drinkable temperature. Overall, it’s a functional and user-friendly coffee maker for everyday use.
Pros
- Vortex technology aims to improve flavor extraction.
- Sneak-A-Cup feature allows for pouring a cup mid-brew.
- No-drip spout minimizes spills.
- Removable filter basket simplifies cleaning.
- Keep-hot plate maintains coffee temperature.
Cons
- The 30-second time limit for Sneak-A-Cup requires attention to prevent overflow.
- Flavor improvement due to Vortex technology may be subtle for some users.
Keurig K- Slim Single Serve K-Cup Pod Coffee Maker – Extremely compact design, suitable for small spaces.
The Keurig K-Mini Plus offers a compact solution for single-cup coffee brewing. Its slim design, less than 5 inches wide, makes it ideal for small kitchens or limited counter space. The MultiStream technology aims to enhance flavor extraction, while the removable 46 oz water reservoir allows for multiple brews before needing a refill.
Users can select from 8, 10, or 12 oz cup sizes, and the machine is relatively quick in brewing. The removable drip tray accommodates travel mugs, adding to its versatility. The auto-off feature after 5 minutes promotes energy efficiency.
Compatibility with the My K-Cup filter provides the option to use ground coffee. However, the small size may be a limitation for those needing larger batches of coffee.
Pros
- Extremely compact design, suitable for small spaces.
- MultiStream technology potentially improves flavor extraction.
- Removable water reservoir allows for multiple brews.
- Compatible with travel mugs.
- Energy-saving auto-off feature.
- Option to use ground coffee with My K-Cup filter (sold separately).
Cons
- Limited to single-cup brewing; not suitable for brewing large quantities.
- Cord length may be restrictive depending on outlet placement.
Mixpresso Red Small Percolator Coffee Pot Electric 4 Cup – Attractive and durable stainless steel design.
The Mixpresso 4-Cup Electric Percolator offers a classic coffee brewing experience with a modern touch. Its red stainless steel design is aesthetically pleasing, and the cool-touch handle enhances safety. The percolator brews a flavorful cup of coffee, though the 5-6 oz ‘cup’ size is smaller than a standard mug.
The ready-to-serve indicator and automatic keep-warm function are convenient features. While hand washing is recommended for optimal care, the overall design is compact and suitable for small spaces. The included filter basket and pump tube are easy to use.
Consider this if you appreciate traditional percolated coffee in smaller servings.
Pros
- Attractive and durable stainless steel design.
- Cool-touch handle ensures safe pouring.
- Ready-to-serve indicator and automatic keep-warm function are convenient.
- Compact size is ideal for small spaces.
- Produces rich and flavorful coffee.
Cons
- “Cups” are smaller than standard 8 oz mugs.
- Hand washing is recommended for optimal care.
Gourmia Coffee Maker – 5 Cup – Simple one-touch operation for easy use.
This coffee maker offers a straightforward and convenient brewing experience with its one-touch operation. The 5-cup capacity is suitable for individuals or small groups, making it a good choice for daily use. The pause and serve function is a practical addition, allowing for mid-brew pouring without creating a mess.
The automatic keep warm feature ensures your coffee stays at an enjoyable temperature for an extended period. Its compact and lightweight design makes it easy to fit into kitchens with limited counter space. However, users looking for advanced features like programmable timers or adjustable brew strengths might find this model lacking.
Pros
- Simple one-touch operation for easy use.
- 5-cup capacity is practical for everyday brewing.
- Pause & Serve feature prevents spills.
- Automatic keep warm function maintains coffee temperature.
- Compact and lightweight design saves space.
Cons
- Lacks advanced features like programmable timers or brew strength adjustment.
- 5-cup capacity might be small for larger households.
BLACK+DECKER 12-Cup Digital Coffee Maker – Durable 12-cup Duralife glass carafe with measurement markings.
This coffeemaker offers a convenient way to brew up to 12 cups of coffee. The Duralife glass carafe feels sturdy and includes helpful measurement markings. The “Sneak-a-Cup” feature is a practical addition for those who can’t wait for the full pot to brew.
The easy-view water window simplifies filling, and the digital controls are straightforward to use thanks to the rubberized buttons. The 24-hour programmable auto brew is a great feature for morning coffee routines. The 2-hour auto shutoff adds a layer of safety.
Overall, this coffeemaker provides a functional and user-friendly experience.
Pros
- Durable 12-cup Duralife glass carafe with measurement markings.
- Sneak-a-Cup feature minimizes drips during brewing.
- Easy-view water window for accurate filling.
- Intuitive digital controls with rubberized buttons.
- 24-hour programmable auto brew for scheduled brewing.
- 2-hour auto shutoff for safety.
Cons
- Carafe is glass, so it is breakable if dropped.
- The “cup” measurement is approximately 5 ounces, which is smaller than a standard cup size.
Better Chef Basic Coffee Maker | 12-Cup | Pause-N- – Convenient grab-a-cup feature.
This single-serve coffee maker offers a convenient, no-frills experience for brewing a quick cup of coffee. The “grab-a-cup” feature is handy for those on the go, allowing you to pour before the entire brewing cycle is complete. The inclusion of a lighted switch is a simple yet useful indicator of operation.
A removable filter basket makes cleaning relatively easy. The water-level indicator helps to avoid overfilling and ensures consistent brewing. While simple in design, it seems like a functional and practical option for individual use or for those looking for a compact coffee maker.
Keep in mind it is a basic model and doesn’t have more advanced features.
Pros
- Convenient grab-a-cup feature.
- Easy-to-clean removable filter basket.
- Helpful water-level indicator.
- Lighted switch provides clear operational status.
- Compact and space-saving design.
Cons
- Lacks advanced features like programmable settings.
- Potentially limited brewing capacity for multiple users.
Buying Guide: What to Look For in a Best Cheap Coffee Maker Reddit
Understanding Your Coffee Needs
Finding the best cheap coffee maker requires understanding your individual needs and preferences. Consider how many cups you typically brew at once. A single-serve option like the Keurig K-Slim might be ideal for individual use, while a 12-cup model such as the MÜELLERHOME is better for households or offices. Think about the features that are important to you, such as programmability, automatic shut-off, or a keep-warm function. Also, consider whether you prefer drip coffee, espresso, or a single-serve pod system.
Types of Affordable Coffee Makers
The market offers various types of affordable coffee makers. Drip coffee makers, like the Holstein Housewares and Amazon Basics models, are the most common and budget-friendly. Stovetop espresso makers, such as the IMUSA, are a compact and inexpensive way to make espresso-style coffee. Single-serve K-Cup machines, like the Keurig K-Slim, offer convenience but require purchasing pods. Percolators, such as the Mixpresso, provide a rich flavor profile. Understanding these differences is crucial in finding the best cheap coffee maker for you.
Key Features to Consider
When choosing the best cheap coffee maker, several key features can significantly impact your experience. Look for models with a reusable filter to save money on disposable filters and reduce waste. Auto-pause and anti-drip functions prevent messes. A keep-warm function ensures your coffee stays hot. Programmability allows you to set a brew time in advance. Finally, consider the ease of cleaning, including a removable filter basket and carafe. Safety features like automatic shut-off are also important.
Materials and Durability
While searching for the best cheap coffee maker, don’t overlook the importance of materials and durability. Borosilicate glass carafes, like the one in the MÜELLERHOME, are more durable and odor-resistant than standard glass. Stainless steel construction, as seen in the Mixpresso, is also a good indicator of longevity. Aluminum stovetop espresso makers, like the IMUSA, are durable and heat-retentive. Read reviews to get a sense of the machine’s reliability and potential issues.
Reading Reviews and Making Your Decision
Before making a purchase, thoroughly research reviews from other users. Reddit is a great source for honest and unbiased opinions on various coffee makers. Look for common complaints or praises regarding specific models. Consider the overall rating and the number of reviews. Compare the features and prices of different models to find the best cheap coffee maker that meets your needs and budget. Don’t be afraid to ask for recommendations from friends or family.
Frequently Asked Questions about Best Cheap Coffee Maker Reddit
What is the best type of cheap coffee maker for beginners?
For beginners, a simple drip coffee maker like the Amazon Basics model or the Holstein Housewares is often the best choice. These models are easy to use with one-button operation and require minimal setup. They also come with reusable filters, saving money on disposable filters. The simplicity of these machines makes them ideal for those new to coffee brewing. Consider a model with auto-pause if you want to pour a cup before the brewing is complete.
Are cheap coffee makers durable and long-lasting?
The durability of a cheap coffee maker can vary. Models with stainless steel components or borosilicate glass carafes tend to be more durable. Regular cleaning and maintenance can also extend the life of your coffee maker. Reading online reviews can provide insights into the long-term reliability of specific models. While a cheap coffee maker may not last as long as a more expensive one, it can still provide years of use with proper care.
What are the benefits of using a reusable filter in a coffee maker?
Reusable filters offer several benefits. They save money by eliminating the need to purchase disposable paper filters. They also reduce waste, making them an environmentally friendly option. Reusable filters are typically easy to clean, and some users find that they enhance the flavor of the coffee by allowing more oils to pass through. This is a great addition to the best cheap coffee maker.
How do I clean a cheap coffee maker effectively?
To clean a cheap coffee maker effectively, start by rinsing the carafe and filter basket after each use. Regularly descale the coffee maker by running a cycle with a mixture of white vinegar and water. Follow this with a cycle of plain water to rinse. Clean the exterior of the coffee maker with a damp cloth. A clean coffee maker will produce better-tasting coffee and last longer.
What is the difference between a drip coffee maker and a percolator?
A drip coffee maker brews coffee by slowly dripping hot water through coffee grounds and into a carafe. A percolator, on the other hand, repeatedly cycles boiling water through the coffee grounds, resulting in a richer, more robust flavor. Percolators tend to produce hotter coffee, but some people find the flavor too strong or bitter. Drip coffee makers are generally easier to use and clean.
Is a programmable coffee maker worth the extra cost?
A programmable coffee maker can be worthwhile if you want to have fresh coffee ready when you wake up or arrive home. This feature allows you to set a brew time in advance, so you don’t have to wait for your coffee in the morning. A programmable best cheap coffee maker adds convenience to your daily routine, especially if you have a busy schedule.
What are the safety features to look for in a cheap coffee maker?
Key safety features include automatic shut-off, which turns off the coffee maker after a set period to prevent overheating. Overheat protection is another important feature that prevents the coffee maker from getting too hot. A cool-touch handle and non-slip feet can also enhance safety. These features ensure safe operation and prevent accidents.
How do I choose the right size coffee maker for my needs?
Consider how many cups of coffee you typically drink or serve at once. If you usually brew for one or two people, a 5-cup coffee maker might be sufficient. For larger households or offices, a 12-cup model is more practical. Single-serve machines are ideal for individuals who only drink one cup at a time. Choose a size that matches your typical consumption to avoid wasting coffee.
Can I use ground coffee in a K-Cup coffee maker?
While K-Cup coffee makers are designed for use with K-Cup pods, you can typically use ground coffee with a My K-Cup reusable filter, which is often sold separately. This allows you to enjoy your favorite ground coffee in your K-Cup machine. The My K-Cup filter replaces the standard K-Cup pod and can be filled with your preferred coffee grounds.
What are some common problems with cheap coffee makers and how can I fix them?
Common problems include leaking, slow brewing, and weak coffee. Leaking can often be resolved by ensuring all parts are properly assembled and that the carafe is correctly positioned. Slow brewing may indicate a need for descaling. Weak coffee can be caused by using too little coffee grounds or by using stale coffee. Refer to the user manual for troubleshooting tips specific to your model of best cheap coffee maker.
Conclusion: The Final Verdict
The Holstein Housewares 5 Cup Drip Coffee Maker – Compact and User-Friendly with Auto Pause & Serve overall, this is a good, basic coffee maker for those seeking a small, easy-to-use appliance. if you need a coffee maker for just yourself or a small group and appreciate simplicity, this is a worthwhile choice.
