Best Espresso Machine Under $100 (Top Picks & Reviews 2021)
If you are someone like me, a perfect day is the one that starts with a strong, bold cup of espresso. Although there is a coffee shop at every corner, the cost of a daily espresso adds up fast.
I am here to tell you, that with the right equipment, you can brew a gourmet espresso right at your home! And it will not break your bank either.
I am going to review the best espresso machine under $100 that you can buy.
These are some of the best espresso machines for home use with features that rival the most expensive machine on the market.
So, what do I bring to the table? Well, first of all, there are thousands of so-called affordable best espresso brands in the market.
If you are a newbie in the espresso machine world, you will need help to find the best.
That is where I come in. I have been using espresso machines for years, and I know a thing or two! I have used both the budget and high-end models and everything in between. So, when I recommend something, I do so based on my personal experience.
What you are going to get is an honest, unbiased review. So, with that issue put to rest, let’s take a closer look at the espresso machines.
Top-Rated Espresso Machine Comparison Table
Recommended Top 6 Espresso Machine Under $100
Now that we acquainted ourselves with the art of home espresso brewing, it’s time to take a look at the best espresso maker under 100 dollars. I have compiled the following lists after carefully deliberating the features and performances. Here are my top 6 favorites
1. Aicook 3.5Bar Espresso and Coffee Machine Review
Are you a coffee lover? If so, you probably have at least one (or more) favorite coffeehouse where you can enjoy a delicious espresso in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere.
You’ve probably thought about how nice it would be to duplicate that enjoyable experience at home, too.
With the Aicook 3.5-bar espresso maker, you can do just that. Be your own barista in the comfort of your own home.
With a built-in steam wand for frothing milk, you can enjoy the relaxed pleasure of sipping delicious espresso as well as other favorite coffee drinks anytime you want.
This high-quality espresso machine for your home or office offers unique features to give you the best coffee experience possible.
Easy and Straightforward Operation
You don’t need the skill of a professional barista to enjoy espresso and other flavorful coffee drinks at home.
Use a medium grind of your favorite coffee beans in the Aicook. The single-switch knob takes all of the guesswork out of operation. Brew 1-to-4 cups at a time.
The included glass decanter is clearly marked to show you how much water you should use.
Built-in Steam Wand
You can easily froth milk for cappuccinos and lattes with the built-in steam wand. It heats quickly to warm and froth the milk for your favorite coffee drinks.
Just imagine serving up flavorful, coffeehouse-quality cappuccinos and lattes to your friends and family.
Easy to Assemble and to Clean
The permanent filter basket has a safety clip for ease of operation. The funnel device is simple to attach and to detach for cleaning.
Before starting, just turn the filter handle in a counter-clockwise direction until it locks tightly into place.
Then, use the handy, single-switch knob to start. After brewing your espresso, you can easily detach the filter handle, drip tray, and frothing nozzle for cleaning with mild soap and water.
Compact Size for Convenient Home Use
The Aicook espresso machine will not take up a great deal of prime real estate on your kitchen counter or coffee bar.
Dimensions are 13.1” high x 7.7” wide x 10” deep. Because it weighs only 4.7 pounds, you can conveniently relocate or store this espresso maker.
ALSO READ: Best Espresso Machine Under $1000
Highlighted Key Features
- Permanent filter basket and funnel device
- Safety clip
- Steam frothing wand
- Included glass coffee decanter
- Detachable drip tray
- Single switch operating knob
- Compact and lightweight design
- Easy to operate
- Easy to assemble and disassemble
- Easy to clean
- Steam frothing wand warms and froths quickly
- Makes espresso, cappuccino, and latte coffee drinks
- Safety clip and locking device to ensure safety
- Easily measure water with the included decanter
- Small size for easy handling and storage
- Don’t use a fine grind. Instead, use a medium grind.
- Steam comes out of the filter holder if it is not locked tightly into position.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Question: Can I use a cup instead of the glass pot?
Answer: Yes. You can use your own cup. Be aware, however, that tall coffee mugs will not fit.
2. Question: What electrical voltage does this machine require: 120v or 220v?
Answer: It requires 120 voltage.
Final Verdict
Get started with at-home espresso brewing. The economical aicook espresso and coffee machine makes it easy for you to be your own barista at home. So, get ready to relax with delicious espressos, cappuccinos, and lattes for yourself and your friends and family.
2. De’longhi ec155 15 Bar pump espresso and cappuccino maker
If you really want to enjoy your own home-brewed espresso, then this best-rated espresso and cappuccino maker could just be the answer for you.
The De’longhi ec155 15 Bar pump espresso and cappuccino maker was manufactured to satisfy those people who loved coffee and who could decide to brew ground espresso or E.S.E pods and their convenience.
The importance of having this machine is of great magnitude. You will agree with me that this is the kind of machine you absolutely need if you love a fine drink of coffee.
Even a beginner can effortlessly brew a delicious cup of coffee with this cool appliance.
It is very reliable and can be kept at home or in your office at any time you need to have a cup of coffee.
Known as the best pump is driven espresso machine, It is so simple to operate and it takes just seconds to get your cappuccino ready.
1. Swivel Jet Frother
Latte and cappuccino can effortlessly be prepared with the swivel jet frother. The frother enables the coffee maker to create a rich, creamy froth for perfect drinks always.
To begin with, this machine is pump-driven. It’s 15 bar pump offers sufficient pressure to make for you a great frothed delicious milk every time you want it.
We know that rich delicious froth is not something available in all cappuccino makers, we, therefore, can’t take this property for granted.
2. Dual Function Filter Holder
This inexpensive pump is driven cappuccino maker comes with a dual-function filter holder that allows you to either use the ground coffee as it is normally done or the convenient coffee pods for quick preparation. It makes espresso and cappuccino preparation easy and very fast.
3. Self-Priming process
Sloppy and annoying start-up preparation is easily eliminated with the help of the self-priming operation. You don’t have to wait for so long before you get to your coffee as it ensures less waiting around for the boiler and element to reach the required temperature.
The De’longhi 15 Bar pump espresso and cappuccino maker is also automatically programmed to get itself ready for brewing. Thus it saves you time and energy since it is self-priming. An espresso that does a part of your job! Wow!
4. 35-ounce water tank and drip tray
The removable 35-ounce tank having an indicator light and also comes with a removable drip tray makes this best pump-driven espresso machine very easy and simple to clean.
All you need, do is disassemble, clean, reassemble, and then get back to making your coffee drinks again and quickly. All of these processes come very easily. The drip tray also enhances the cleaning process.
This masterpiece water tank is also good enough to contain a volume of 35 ounces of water. It can be removed first before water is poured inside.
ALSO READ: Best Espresso Machine Under $200
Highlighted Key Features
- Boiler
- Cup warmer
- Self-priming operation
- Patented Dual filter holder
- Removable 35 ounce water tank
- Drip tray
- Swivel jet frother
- Known for rich delicious milk due to strong frother
- Very easy and simple for beginners to brew a cup of drink
- Quality of cappuccino can’t be compared.
- There will be some mess after cleaning but don’t worry because it’s not a big deal
- The filter basket is fragile and must be handled with caution to prevent twisting
3. Hamilton Beach Espresso Maker powerful 15-bar Italian pump
Have you been searching for an affordable espresso machine? This best Hamilton beach 40715 espresso maker just for under 100 will definitely meet your drink needs.
Having out this machine to the test, you can rest assured that the espresso machine delivers café quality. Although it’s not perfect, this coffee maker brews a surprisingly great cup of espresso.
One of the first things you notice about this best espresso coffee machines for home is that it’s very easy to use.
Three main buttons control the machine’s operations and they include a steam button, an on/off switch, and an espresso brewing button.
On the right side of the interface is a knob that allows you to control the steam pressure.
The machine also comes with a LED indicator lights that let you know whether the power is on and if the temperature is right for brewing.
1. 40-ounce Reservoir
One good thing we really love about the Hamilton beach espresso maker is that it can be used to do two shots of espresso at the same time. With the large 40 ounce reservoir, you wouldn’t have to refill the tank often when you have guests at your place. There it is reliable when hosting a crown.
2. Powerful 15 Bars Italian Pump and Steam Wand for a Quality Drink
This espresso maker comes with a powerful 15 bar Italian pump. This pump is responsible for brewing a great shot of espresso. Did I tell you that this coffee maker also comes with a steam wand?
This feature is not found on most low-budget machines and you are able to control the amount of steam that comes out of the wand. You can brew up your cappuccinos and lattes with ease.
3. Compatible with Pods or Ground Coffee
Hamilton Beach espresso machine is easy to use because you are allowed to use both coffee pods and ground coffee. If it is ground coffee that you want, then there is no problem with that.
You’ll be glad to know that the Hamilton Beach 40715 Espresso Maker offers a powerful and fantastic grinder with an espresso setting. Would you rather not bother to grind beans? You can go for espresso pods, but you must note that they’re not as fresh.
4. Easy to Clean
I really have to say that this 40715 espresso maker is among the easiest to clean that I have ever come across. The drip tray is removable and so is the water reservoir, frothing nozzle, brew head, cup rest, which makes cleanup simple and fast.
Highlighted Key Features
- 40-ounce water reservoir
- 15 bar Italian pump
- Steam wand
- Push button operation
- Milk frother
- Removable drip tray
- Compatible with pods or ground coffee
- Brews 2 cups of espresso once
- Easy to use
- Easy to clean
- Affordable
- Includes a steam wand
- Compatible with pods or ground coffee
- Can brew 2 cups of espresso at the same time
- Long recovery time and longer time to heat up but the good thing is that it can brew two shots at a time.
- For the price, these minor inconveniences don’t really matter
4. De’Longhi BAR32 Retro 15 BAR Pump Espresso and Cappuccino Maker
Every morning, the smell I look forward to it that of freshly made coffee, it sets the right morning mood.
I’ve had the privilege of using the De’Longhi Bar 32 Retro 15 Bar Pump. It is both an expresso and cappuccino.
It brews at the exact temperature set providing a perfect morning cup.
At a glance, one can assume it’s complicated to use, but in fact, it is very simple.
It is stylish, modern yet very easy to maintain it. It is quite durable.
For those in need of a specific idea of what it looks like, it is around 6lbs with measurements of 10.2×9×12.5 inches meaning that it can fit in most areas.
After using it for a while, you may need spare parts, make sure to get original ones through www.encompassparts.com. Here are some of the features that makes this coffee maker the best in the market.
1. Two Way Brew
You can use both ground coffee or convenient pods (Easy Serve Espresso pods). This works with the unique dual feature of the filter. The best results of the holder are experienced when you use ground coffee. One thing to avoid is instant coffee; this will not work well with the filter. On the upside, the result for the fine ground coffee is not disappointing.
2. Frother
Like every classic coffee maker, there is a milk frother that prepares good cappuccino and latte. Those who love perfect foam on their coffee will definitely enjoy the swivel jet frother with its incredible pressure. This feature alone is enough to make you fall in love with the coffee maker.
3. Self-priming
Self-priming if often good news. It means the water can be lifted even if it’s the pump suction. The air passage is automatically cleared, no annoying start-up noise early in the morning, just a smooth, quick start. You get to enjoy a pleasing silent coffee brew throughout the day without any problems.
4. Two thermostat
This is one of my favorite features. One thermostat is for water and another if for steam meaning each can be controlled separately. The water tank holds 35ounces. The temperature will always be perfect. The boiler is not just the ordinary kind but made of high-quality stainless steel. The pressure has a 15 bar pump.
If that doesn’t guarantee perfect coffee every time, I don’t know what will. The best part is this, and all features will give you years of great service. This is because the material used in each item is of a high-quality standard.
Highlighted Key Features
- It is easy to use and clean.
- The water tank is removable and so is the drip tray.
- This is a relief to many of us.
- We have also seen how the machine helps to make wonderful espresso fast and easy.
- Easy to use
- Easy to clean
- Durable
- Quality material
- Easily access spare parts
- Perfect temperature always
- Good size
- Dual filter
- Cannot use instant coffee
- The coffee will not come out well if the filter is overfilled or compact tightly so try and avoid this
5. Nespresso Inissia Espresso Maker, Black
The Nespresso Inissia is lightweight and equipped with an ergonomic handle. This best Nespresso machine to buy perfectly fits into any interior design. Thereby making it suitable for the home.
So you don’t have to worry if you are fashion sensitive. Nespresso technology began more than 25 years ago with a simple but transforming idea in creating the perfect blend of Espresso coffee with exquisite crema, tempting aroma, and full-bodied taste.
Through a unique blend of premium quality Grand Cru coffees, attractive coffee makers, and excellent customer service, Nespresso has redefined the way coffee lovers enjoy their espresso.
To obtain the perfect combination, experts of Nespresso use only the finest Grands Crus green coffees that give the most tantalizing aroma. The espresso can also be enjoyed with milk but this depends on the type of recipe.
It comes with a generous three years warranty. The espresso can also be enjoyed with milk but this depends on the type of recipe. It comes with a generous three years warranty
1. 700ml Water Tank with Lid
Surprisingly the dimensions of the coffee maker haven’t had much impact on the size of its water tank. It is not the most spacious but when you then consider dimensions of the tank it fits more than you can imagine.
The tank also comes with a lid to prevent spillage between the machine and tap.
2. Patented Extraction System and Energy Saving Mode
This coffee maker unit can deliver up to 19 bars of pressure. Another feature that the Nespresso comes with is the energy-saving mode technology. It helps you to store or conserve energy when the espresso maker is not brewing or not in use.
3. Thermoblock Technology
The Nespresso Inissia coffee makes comes with a Thermo block technology that raises the temperature of freshwater to the required level just before brewing to ensure fresh water for each brew thereby limiting scale buildup.
4. Capsules
After brewing, the capsule ejects automatically into a container that contains close to ten spent capsules before it is due for emptying. The machine comes with a welcome kit containing assorted Nespresso capsules saying you are invited to join the Nespresso Club.
This service makes it easy to order new capsules over the phone or online. The patented capsule ensures a simple and one-touch brewing experience. These capsules can also be recycled at any Sur La Tabe store.
Highlighted Key Features
- 700ml water tank
- Lid
- Patented extraction system
- Energy saving mode
- 19 bar pump
- Himged drip tray
- I6 pods
- It is a very light espresso machine
- Easy fill-lidded water tank
- The unit is very compact
- Basic automated drinks
- It is tied to the Nespresso pod system
6. Excelvan CM6811 Steam Espresso and Cappuccino Coffee maker
Looking for that coffee that best meets your coffee needs at home? Or you want that professional satisfaction on espresso and cappuccino making? If these have crossed your mind at any point, then we have your answers.
Came so easy, right? The Excelvan CM6811 Steam Espresso and Cappuccino Coffee Maker is the best four-cup coffee maker that is inexpensive can also suit your home. So that’s an all-around win.
Why not invite your friends to enjoy home brewed coffee over instead of spending that extra bucks at coffee houses and cafes.
With this best home cappuccino maker, you can easily make four cups of coffee in a space of 5 minutes.
You can now daily enjoy your espresso coffee and cappuccino to a high standard at the convenience of your home
What you get
It comes with a full package of Excelvan Coffeemaker, a spoon, a carafe, a funnel holder, and a filter. The Excelvan CM6811 Steam Espresso and Cappuccino Coffeemaker is approval by ETL/FDA and also comes with a one year warranty and free friendly customer service
1. Large Capacity and 3.5 bars Working Pressure
Unlike other espresso machines, this best inexpensive espresso and cappuccino machine has a 4-cup carafe capacity of 240ml. It allows you to brew 4 cups of coffee just within 5 minutes.
It, therefore, saves energy and time. A 3.5-bar working pressure makes sure you have a rich taste of the coffee.
2. High Quality Stainless Steel Design and Washable Drip Tray
The modern stainless steel adds a sophisticated touch to any kitchen with just one glance. It includes the 0.02-inch stainless filter that provides you a strong taste of coffee. The removable & washable drip tray for coffee makers to find it easy and effective when claning.
3. Easy to Use
The buttons that are integrated into this best 4 cup espresso maker are the single control for function transform-coffee or steam selector button and an on/off control switch.
It comes with an indicator light for easy control. With these very simple buttons, it won’t be much of a task for a first timer in making a fine coffee.
Highlighted Key Features
- 3.5 bar working pressure
- Boiler cap with built-in valve
- Stainless steel decoration
- Easy to use
- Stainless steel filter
- A 4-cup capacity of 240ml
- Frothing function
- You can easily brew 4 cups of coffee in a space of 5 mins
- Easy to use
- Good design
- This is the best espresso machine under 100 dollars
- It is big and takes much space but then that’s the design and it may be just a perfect fit for some with much space. So it’s a matter of preference
What is the Best Espresso Machine?
In simplest of terms, the best espresso machine will brew a robust and flavorful espresso with the characteristic layer of crema on top. An espresso machine achieves this by forcing heated water (200 F) through the coffee ‘puck’.
The perfect pressure and temperature combination extract the maximum flavor to give you that delicious cup of espresso.
So, the challenge is to maintain the right temperature and pressure for the most efficient extraction. Even a slight change in the temperature or pressure can completely modify the taste.
The ability of an espresso machine to maintain the pressure and temperature dictates the price. If you are willing to spend 1000s of dollars you can have precise control.
But even with a budget of 100, some of the machines give you an incredibly enjoyable cup.
Types of Espresso Machines
You should consider some important things while buying an espresso machine. But, before we go to the things that you should look for, it is important to understand the types of espresso machines.
After that, you should choose the best espresso coffee machines for your home.
There are two broad types of espresso machines based on the mechanics involved. The two basic types of espresso machines are steam-driven and pump-driven.
Steam-driven: In a Steam-driven espresso machine, pressured steam is used to force water through the coffee. Although these machines produce the characteristic foam or ‘crema’, they lack precise temperature control.
There is not enough pressure, and hence the result is a strong coffee which may not necessarily be an espresso.
Pump-driven: The pump-driven espresso machines use an electric pump to generate pressure. Hence they don’t have to rely on steam and offer better pressure control. These machines make a true cup of espresso.
How to choose an ideal espresso machine for you?
There are many things that you should consider before buying an espresso machine. Some of them are:
The mechanics of the machine: As we saw earlier, it is important to consider the mechanics of the machine. As a general rule, the pump-driven system edges out the pressure-driven ones.
Partly as the pressure and temperature control is the best in these machines. Although the pump-driven machines make a ‘true’ espresso, the steam-driven ones can also make a mean cup of joe.
The coffee: There are two ways you can put coffee in your new espresso maker. You can use fresh grounds or you can use an ESE pod. Although I prefer grinding coffee, the pods can be convenient for some. If you are short on time or if you prefer a less messy route, the pods can be great.
Ease of cleaning: Another crucial feature to look for is the ease of cleaning. Some of the best espresso machine under 100 can be quite difficult to clean. You want a machine that is easy to disassemble and clean with minimum effort.
The build quality: If you want your machine to last for a long time, make sure that the machine has a durable design. Look for the material of construction. Steel is always the best choice. It does not corrode or stain either.
The benefits of using an espresso machine
Owing an espresso machine is the smartest thing that I have done for my morning coffee fix. I love coffee and if you are someone like me, having an espresso machine at home will be a game-changer. There are many reasons to love my espresso machine:
- You can get your gourmet, custom coffee quick! No need to stand in line during rush hours.
- Do you know there are hundreds of types of coffees out there? With your espresso maker, you can explore all of them! I am currently sampling coffee in different parts of the world, and it is just amazing!
- Practice makes perfect! The more you work on your machine, the more you learn about coffee and the process itself. Trust me it is quite a rewarding experience.
Final verdict
These are the best espresso machine under 100 dollars. If you check the top five products recommended to you here, you would observe that they are the best in terms of features.
Many of them can be used for cappuccino, latte, as well as espresso. They are not only easy to use and clean, they do not occupy spaces as well.
Some of them are tailored for home use, while others are designed for both home and office. They are portable and can be contained in your kitchen. These machines are carefully selected for you.
You can get real value for your money for any of these products you decide to use. They are highly recommended.