For many, a daily dose of coffee is a necessity, and the coffee maker is the unsung hero of the morning routine. However, finding a machine that balances quality and value can be a challenge, especially when on a budget.
A high price tag doesn’t always guarantee the best brew. That’s why we’ve delved into the world of affordable coffee makers to help you make an informed decision.
This article focuses on the best best coffee maker under $100, exploring the options that deliver exceptional coffee without breaking the bank. We understand the importance of choosing the right appliance; one that offers both reliability and a consistently delicious cup.
So, if you’re seeking the best best coffee maker under $100, read on to discover our top picks and buying considerations.
IN THIS ARTICLE
Top 10 Best Coffee Maker Under $100 Compared
BLACK+DECKER 12-Cup Coffee Maker with Easy On/Off Switch
- Vortex Technology for potentially improved flavor extraction.
- Sneak-a-Cup feature allows for pouring coffee mid-brew.
- No-drip spout prevents messes during pouring.
- Removable and dishwasher-safe filter basket simplifies cleaning.
4.7/5
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BLACK+DECKER 12-Cup Digital Coffee Maker
- 12-Cup Duralife Glass Carafe with Measurement Markings
- Sneak-a-Cup feature to prevent drips
- Easy-view water window for accurate filling
- Digital controls with rubberized buttons and easy-read screen
4.6/5
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Ninja 12-Cup Programmable Coffee Brewer
- Offers both Classic and Rich brew styles.
- Features a programmable delay brew for convenience.
- Includes a removable water reservoir for easy filling.
- Has a small batch function to prevent dilution.
4.5/5
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Cuisinart 14-Cup Coffee Maker
- Adjustable carafe temperature
- Brew strength control (regular/bold)
- 24-hour programmability
- 1-4 cup setting
4.5/5
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SHARDOR 10-Cup Programmable Coffee Maker
- 24-hour programmable timer for automated brewing.
- Easy-to-use LCD touch screen interface.
- Keeps coffee warm for 2 hours.
- Two brewing strength options.
4.4/5
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Amazon Basics Coffee Makers
- Compact design ideal for small spaces.
- Simple one-button operation.
- Warming plate to keep coffee hot.
- Overheat protection for safety.
4.3/5
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Mueller 12-Cup Drip Coffee Maker – Borosilicate Carafe
- Large 60oz capacity is great for multiple servings.
- Durable borosilicate glass carafe.
- Reusable filter eliminates the need for disposable filters.
- Keep-warm function with 2-hour auto shut-off.
4.6/5
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BELLA Single Serve Coffee Maker
- Supports both ground coffee and coffee pods.
- Adjustable drip tray fits various mug sizes.
- Compact and space-saving design.
- Simple one-touch operation.
4.7/5
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Hamilton Beach 2-Way 12 Cup Programmable Drip Coffee Maker & Single Serve Machine
- Offers both single-serve and full pot brewing options.
- Programmable with brew strength settings and a 24-hour timer.
- Features auto pause and pour for convenient mid-brew cups.
- Separate, easy-fill water reservoirs with water windows.
4.7/5
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Elite Gourmet EHC-5055 Automatic 5-Cup Brew & Drip Coffee Maker with Pause N Serve Reusable Filter
- 5-cup capacity is ideal for individuals or small groups.
- Semi-transparent water reservoir with level indicator.
- Reusable filter eliminates the need for paper filters.
- Pause ‘n Serve feature for quick coffee retrieval.
4.8/5
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Detailed Reviews of the Best Best Coffee Maker Under $100
BLACK+DECKER 12-Cup Coffee Maker with Easy On/Off Switch – Vortex Technology for potentially improved flavor extraction.
This coffee maker offers several convenient features aimed at improving the brewing experience. The ‘Vortex Technology’ aims for even coffee ground saturation, potentially leading to a richer flavor, though individual taste preferences will vary. The ‘Sneak-a-Cup’ function is useful for those who can’t wait for the full brew cycle to finish, but requires careful monitoring to avoid overflow.
The no-drip spout is a welcome addition for mess-free pouring. The removable filter basket simplifies cleaning, especially since it’s dishwasher-safe. Finally, the keep-hot plate maintains coffee temperature after brewing.
Overall, the machine appears to offer a good balance of features and convenience for everyday coffee brewing.
Pros
- Vortex Technology for potentially improved flavor extraction.
- Sneak-a-Cup feature allows for pouring coffee mid-brew.
- No-drip spout prevents messes during pouring.
- Removable and dishwasher-safe filter basket simplifies cleaning.
- Keep-hot plate maintains coffee temperature.
Cons
- Sneak-a-Cup requires careful monitoring to prevent overflow.
- The impact of ‘Vortex Technology’ on flavor may be subjective and dependent on coffee bean quality.
BLACK+DECKER 12-Cup Digital Coffee Maker – 12-Cup Duralife Glass Carafe with Measurement Markings
This coffee maker offers several convenient features for everyday use. The 12-cup Duralife glass carafe includes measurement markings and a comfortable handle. The ‘Sneak-a-Cup’ feature is a welcome addition for those who want a quick cup mid-brew.
The easy-view water window simplifies filling. Digital controls with rubberized buttons and a clear screen provide straightforward operation. The 24-hour auto brew function and 2-hour auto shutoff add to its user-friendliness.
Overall, it seems like a solid choice for a standard drip coffee maker.
Pros
- 12-Cup Duralife Glass Carafe with Measurement Markings
- Sneak-a-Cup feature to prevent drips
- Easy-view water window for accurate filling
- Digital controls with rubberized buttons and easy-read screen
- 24-Hour auto brew feature
- 2-Hour auto shutoff for safety
Cons
- Glass carafe is susceptible to breaking if not handled carefully.
- Cup size is approximately 5 ounces, which is smaller than a standard cup.
Ninja 12-Cup Programmable Coffee Brewer – Offers both Classic and Rich brew styles.
The Ninja Programmable Brewer offers a range of features designed to enhance the coffee brewing experience. The option of choosing between Classic and Rich brew styles caters to different taste preferences, while the 12-cup carafe provides flexibility for brewing both small and large batches. The inclusion of hotter brewing technology aims to improve flavor extraction.
The small batch function prevents dilution when brewing fewer cups. Convenient features like the 24-hour programmable delay and adjustable warming plate add to its usability. The removable water reservoir simplifies refilling, and the mid-brew pause is a practical addition.
The clean setting helps to maintain the machine. Overall, it seems like a solid, feature-rich coffee maker.
Pros
- Offers both Classic and Rich brew styles.
- Features a programmable delay brew for convenience.
- Includes a removable water reservoir for easy filling.
- Has a small batch function to prevent dilution.
- Adjustable warming plate maintains coffee freshness.
- Built-in clean setting for easy maintenance.
Cons
- Glass carafe might be fragile compared to stainless steel options.
- 4-hour warming plate might not be sufficient for all users.
Cuisinart 14-Cup Coffee Maker – Adjustable carafe temperature
The Cuisinart 14-Cup Coffee Maker offers several convenient features for coffee lovers. The adjustable carafe temperature is a nice addition, allowing you to maintain your preferred coffee temperature. The brew strength control, with its regular and bold settings, provides customization options.
Being fully automatic with 24-hour programmability, a 1-4 cup setting, and auto-off functionality is very practical for daily use. The 14-cup capacity is suitable for both individual and family needs. The easy-to-view water window simplifies filling, and the Brew Pause feature is a thoughtful touch for impatient mornings.
Overall, a solid mid-range coffee maker with useful functionalities.
Pros
- Adjustable carafe temperature
- Brew strength control (regular/bold)
- 24-hour programmability
- 1-4 cup setting
- Auto-off feature
- Easy-to-view water window
Cons
- 14-cup capacity is based on 5oz cups, which may be smaller than expected for some.
- The ‘ready alert tone’ might be annoying for some users if not customizable.
SHARDOR 10-Cup Programmable Coffee Maker – 24-hour programmable timer for automated brewing.
This coffee maker offers a range of features aimed at convenience and customization. The programmable timer and LCD touch screen add a modern touch, allowing users to schedule brewing and easily navigate settings. The keep-warm function maintains coffee temperature for up to two hours, and the option to select brewing strength caters to individual preferences.
The auto shut-off feature enhances safety, while the pause-and-serve function lets you grab a cup mid-brew. Overall, it seems like a capable coffee maker with user-friendly features.
Pros
- 24-hour programmable timer for automated brewing.
- Easy-to-use LCD touch screen interface.
- Keeps coffee warm for 2 hours.
- Two brewing strength options.
- Automatic shut-off for safety.
- Pause-and-serve function allows mid-brew pouring.
Cons
- The keep-warm function is limited to 2 hours which may not be enough for some users.
- The product description lacks details on carafe material (glass/stainless steel).
Amazon Basics Coffee Makers – Compact design ideal for small spaces.
This compact coffee maker is designed for small spaces like apartments or offices. Its 5-cup capacity is suitable for individual use or small groups. The operation is straightforward with a simple on/off switch and an indicator light to show when it’s brewing.
A warming plate maintains the coffee’s temperature after brewing, preventing it from getting cold too quickly. The inclusion of overheat protection adds a safety feature, preventing damage from low water levels or excessive temperatures. The reusable filter basket simplifies cleanup, contributing to overall ease of maintenance.
While the coffee maker is generally practical, the plastic components feel a little cheap. Overall, it’s a decent budget-friendly option for basic coffee brewing.
Pros
- Compact design ideal for small spaces.
- Simple one-button operation.
- Warming plate to keep coffee hot.
- Overheat protection for safety.
- Reusable filter basket for easy cleaning.
Cons
- 5-cup capacity may be too small for larger households.
- Materials may feel somewhat inexpensive.
Mueller 12-Cup Drip Coffee Maker – Borosilicate Carafe – Large 60oz capacity is great for multiple servings.
The Mueller coffee machine offers a generous 60oz capacity, making it suitable for households that consume a significant amount of coffee. The borosilicate glass carafe is a plus, promising durability and resistance to odors. The inclusion of a reusable filter is convenient and environmentally conscious, although the option to use paper filters is still available.
The keep-warm function, with its 2-hour auto-off feature, is a thoughtful addition for maintaining coffee temperature. The non-drip carafe and non-slip feet are standard features that contribute to a cleaner and safer brewing process. While the machine lacks smart device compatibility, it provides a straightforward and reliable coffee brewing experience.
Pros
- Large 60oz capacity is great for multiple servings.
- Durable borosilicate glass carafe.
- Reusable filter eliminates the need for disposable filters.
- Keep-warm function with 2-hour auto shut-off.
- Non-drip carafe design prevents spills.
- Non-slip feet provide stability.
Cons
- Not compatible with smart devices.
- The 2-hour keep-warm time might not be sufficient for some users.
BELLA Single Serve Coffee Maker – Supports both ground coffee and coffee pods.
The Bella Single-Serve Coffee Maker offers a convenient solution for individual coffee drinkers. It supports both ground coffee and pods, providing flexibility in brewing options. The adjustable drip tray accommodates various mug sizes, including travel mugs, which is a definite plus.
Its compact design makes it suitable for smaller kitchens or limited counter space. The one-touch operation simplifies the brewing process, making it user-friendly. Cleanup is also straightforward, thanks to the dishwasher-safe components.
While the water tank capacity is adequate for single servings, it might require frequent refilling for multiple users. Overall, it’s a decent option for those seeking a simple and easy-to-maintain single-serve coffee maker.
Pros
- Supports both ground coffee and coffee pods.
- Adjustable drip tray fits various mug sizes.
- Compact and space-saving design.
- Simple one-touch operation.
- Dishwasher-safe parts for easy cleanup.
Cons
- 14oz water tank may require frequent refills for multiple users.
Hamilton Beach 2-Way 12 Cup Programmable Drip Coffee Maker & Single Serve Machine – Offers both single-serve and full pot brewing options.
The Hamilton Beach coffee maker offers the flexibility of brewing either a single cup or a full pot using ground coffee, which is a definite plus for households with varying coffee needs. The inclusion of a mesh scoop simplifies the single-serve brewing process, although it’s important to note that it’s not compatible with K-Cup pods. The programmable features, including brew strength options and a 24-hour timer, provide added convenience.
The auto pause and pour function is useful for those who want a quick cup mid-brew. The separate water reservoirs with water windows make filling easy and monitoring water levels straightforward. The 2-hour keep warm function with automatic shutoff is a good safety feature.
Overall, it’s a versatile and user-friendly coffee maker.
Pros
- Offers both single-serve and full pot brewing options.
- Programmable with brew strength settings and a 24-hour timer.
- Features auto pause and pour for convenient mid-brew cups.
- Separate, easy-fill water reservoirs with water windows.
- 2-hour keep warm with automatic shutoff for safety.
Cons
- Not compatible with K-Cup pods.
- Requires the use of ground coffee, limiting pod-based convenience.
Elite Gourmet EHC-5055 Automatic 5-Cup Brew & Drip Coffee Maker with Pause N Serve Reusable Filter – 5-cup capacity is ideal for individuals or small groups.
This coffee maker offers a straightforward and simple approach to brewing coffee, catering to individuals or small groups with its 5-cup capacity. The semi-transparent water reservoir is a practical feature, allowing users to easily monitor the water level. The inclusion of a reusable filter is a definite plus, reducing both environmental impact and the recurring cost of paper filters.
The ‘Pause ‘n Serve’ function provides added convenience for those who want a quick cup mid-brew. Operation is uncomplicated thanks to the simple on/off switch and lack of complex programming. Overall, it’s a basic but functional coffee maker.
Pros
- 5-cup capacity is ideal for individuals or small groups.
- Semi-transparent water reservoir with level indicator.
- Reusable filter eliminates the need for paper filters.
- Pause ‘n Serve feature for quick coffee retrieval.
- Simple on/off operation with power indicator light.
Cons
- Basic functionality lacks advanced features like programming or brew strength control.
- 5-cup capacity might be too small for larger households or gatherings.
Buying Guide: What to Look For in a Best Coffee Maker Under $100
Capacity and Brewing Needs
When seeking the best best coffee maker under $100, consider your typical brewing needs. Are you brewing for one, a small group, or a larger family? Coffee makers range from single-serve models to those brewing up to 14 cups. A larger capacity is ideal for households with multiple coffee drinkers, while a single-serve option is perfect for individuals or those with limited counter space. Also consider if you need both single serve and a full pot.
Features and Functionality
Many coffee makers offer a range of features. Programmability allows you to set a brew time in advance. Brew strength control lets you customize the boldness of your coffee. A pause-and-serve feature allows you to pour a cup mid-brew. Look for features that align with your preferences and lifestyle. Some models boast special technology for improved flavor extraction, such as vortex technology. Auto shut-off is a valuable safety feature.
Ease of Use and Cleaning
A user-friendly design is crucial. Look for models with easy-to-read controls, clear water level indicators, and removable parts for easy cleaning. Dishwasher-safe components are a bonus. A removable water reservoir simplifies filling. Consider the filter type. Reusable filters eliminate the need for disposable paper filters, saving you money and reducing waste. Check for features like a no-drip spout to prevent messes.
Durability and Materials
While searching for the best best coffee maker under $100, pay attention to the materials used. A durable glass carafe or a borosilicate glass carafe can withstand temperature changes. A robust construction ensures longevity. Read reviews to gauge the overall reliability of the coffee maker. Consider the type of filter basket, and whether it’s easy to remove and clean.
Budget Considerations
The price range of under $100 offers a variety of options. While some models may have more advanced features, you can still find a reliable and functional coffee maker within this budget. Prioritize the features that are most important to you and choose a model that fits your needs without exceeding your budget. Remember to factor in the cost of filters if the model doesn’t include a reusable one. Finding the best best coffee maker under $100 is about balancing features, capacity, and durability within your budget.
Frequently Asked Questions about Best Coffee Maker Under $100
What are the key features to look for in a coffee maker under $100?
The key features to look for in a best best coffee maker under $100 include capacity appropriate for your needs, programmability for convenience, brew strength control for customized flavor, a pause-and-serve function for mid-brew coffee, a keep-warm plate, and easy-to-clean components. Safety features like auto shut-off are also important. Consider the filter type, opting for a reusable filter to save money and reduce waste. Prioritize features that align with your personal coffee-making preferences.
What is the difference between a programmable and a non-programmable coffee maker?
A programmable coffee maker allows you to set a brew time in advance, so you can wake up to freshly brewed coffee. This is a convenient feature for busy mornings. A non-programmable coffee maker requires you to manually start the brewing process each time you want a pot of coffee. For the best best coffee maker under $100, both options are available, depending on your needs. Programmability adds convenience, but a non-programmable model can be more straightforward.
How important is the carafe material when choosing a coffee maker?
The carafe material is important for both durability and heat retention. Glass carafes are common and allow you to see the coffee level, but can be fragile. Borosilicate glass is more durable and resistant to temperature changes. Thermal carafes, typically made of stainless steel, offer excellent heat retention, keeping your coffee hot for longer without a warming plate. When choosing the best best coffee maker under $100, consider your priorities for durability and heat retention.
What does the “pause-and-serve” feature do, and is it really useful?
The “pause-and-serve” feature allows you to briefly pause the brewing process to pour a cup of coffee before the entire pot is finished. This can be useful if you’re in a hurry and don’t want to wait for the full brew cycle. However, it may slightly affect the overall flavor of the coffee, as the brewing process is interrupted. Whether it’s useful depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you often need a cup mid-brew, it’s a valuable feature.
Are reusable filters better than paper filters for coffee makers?
Reusable filters offer several advantages. They eliminate the need to purchase disposable paper filters, saving you money and reducing waste. Many reusable filters are made of mesh and allow more oils and sediment to pass through, resulting in a richer, more flavorful cup of coffee. However, they require more thorough cleaning than paper filters. Paper filters are convenient and can filter out more sediment, resulting in a cleaner cup of coffee.
What is the ideal capacity for a coffee maker for a small household (1-2 people)?
For a small household of 1-2 people, a coffee maker with a 5-cup to 8-cup capacity is generally sufficient. This allows you to brew enough coffee for a few cups each morning without wasting coffee. Single-serve coffee makers are also a good option for individuals who only drink one cup at a time. When considering the best best coffee maker under $100, it’s important to match the capacity to your consumption habits.
How important is the auto shut-off feature in a coffee maker?
The auto shut-off feature is an important safety feature. It automatically turns off the coffee maker after a certain period of time, typically 1-2 hours, preventing the coffee maker from overheating and potentially causing a fire. This is especially useful if you tend to forget to turn off appliances. When searching for the best best coffee maker under $100, prioritize models with this safety feature for peace of mind.
What are some common problems with coffee makers and how can they be prevented?
Common problems with coffee makers include mineral buildup, which can affect the taste of the coffee and the performance of the machine. This can be prevented by regularly descaling the coffee maker with vinegar or a descaling solution. Other problems include clogs in the filter basket or spout, which can be prevented by cleaning the coffee maker regularly. Using filtered water can also help prevent mineral buildup.
What is the best way to clean a coffee maker?
The best way to clean a coffee maker is to regularly descale it with a solution of equal parts water and white vinegar. Run the vinegar solution through a full brew cycle, then run two cycles with fresh water to rinse. Clean the carafe and filter basket with soap and water after each use. For the best best coffee maker under $100, cleaning is critical for maintaining the efficiency.
How do I choose between a single-serve coffee maker and a multi-cup coffee maker?
Choose a single-serve coffee maker if you typically only drink one cup of coffee at a time, or if you want the convenience of brewing different types of coffee without making a whole pot. Choose a multi-cup coffee maker if you drink multiple cups of coffee per day, or if you often brew coffee for multiple people. Consider your daily coffee consumption and brewing needs when making your decision.
Conclusion: The Final Verdict
The BLACK+DECKER 12-Cup Coffee Maker with Easy On/Off Switch this coffee maker provides a range of useful features designed to enhance the brewing process and user experience. it’s a solid choice for those seeking a reliable and convenient appliance for daily coffee preparation, as long as you are aware of the limitations.
