5 Best Coffee Maker Under $100 on Amazon: Premium Budget Brews
Coffee lovers around the globe can testify: having a good coffee maker can make all the difference when it comes to enjoying the perfect cup. But do you need to break the bank to find a machine that can deliver that delicious, aromatic coffee you want to brew?
The good news is, you don't have to! Let's dive into the world of budget coffee makers and discover the five best coffee makers under $100.
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Our Top Picks for the Best Coffee Maker Under $100
| Coffee Maker | Key Features | Capacity | Programmable | Brew Strength Selection | Carafe Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mr. Coffee 12-Cup Programmable Coffee Maker | 24-hour programmability, Auto-pause feature | 12 cups | Yes | No | Glass |
| Hamilton Beach 2-Way Brewer | Dual functionality, Compatible with ground coffee and soft pods | Single cup & 12 cups | Yes (carafe side) | Yes | Glass |
| BLACK+DECKER 12-Cup Thermal Coffeemaker | Evenstream Showerhead feature, Brew strength selector | 12 cups | No | Yes | Thermal |
| Cuisinart DCC-450BK 4-Cup Coffeemaker | Compact design, Brew-pause feature | 4 cups | No | No | Stainless Steel |
| Ninja CE251 Programmable Brewer | Custom brew strengths, Large water reservoir | 12 cups | Yes | Yes | Glass |
Did you know that the world's largest coffee maker is over 9 feet tall? It's true! The Swedish company, Scanomat, produced a coffee maker named “TopBrewer” that holds the record. This machine is not only huge, but it can also brew a cup of coffee in just 25 seconds and is controlled using a smartphone app. Quite a stark contrast from the compact and budget-friendly coffee makers we've discussed here, isn't it?
1. Mr. Coffee 12-Cup Programmable Coffee Maker
For those in need of a workhorse machine, the Mr. Coffee 12-Cup Programmable Coffee Maker is a fantastic option.
Pros:
- Programmable up to 24 hours in advance
- Large capacity — brews up to 12 cups of coffee
- Auto-pause feature lets you sneak a cup before brewing is finished
Cons:
- Takes up a significant amount of counter space
- Lacks temperature control
Main Benefit: Its programmable coffee maker feature allows you to set it to brew at a specific time, perfect for waking up to freshly brewed coffee.
Why We Recommend It: Its large capacity and programmability make it a great choice for households with multiple coffee drinkers.
2. Hamilton Beach 2-Way Brewer
The Hamilton Beach 2-Way Brewer offers versatility for any coffee enthusiast.
Pros:
- Brews both single cup and full carafe
- Compatible with ground coffee and soft cup pods
- Programmable functionality for the carafe side
Cons:
- Not as durable as other models
- The single-cup side isn't programmable
Main Benefit: This drip coffee maker is versatile and caters to different brew strength preferences.
Why We Recommend It: Its dual-functionality allows you to brew a single cup for yourself or a full carafe when you have company, all without a hefty price tag.
3. BLACK+DECKER 12-Cup Thermal Coffeemaker
The BLACK+DECKER 12-Cup Thermal Coffeemaker provides an economical solution for those in need of a coffee maker with a thermal carafe.
Pros:
- Large capacity with thermal carafe
- Offers “Evenstream Showerhead” feature for optimal flavor extraction
- Has a brew strength selector
Cons:
- The thermal carafe doesn't have a viewing window
- Requires regular cleaning for best results
Main Benefit: Its thermal carafe keeps coffee hot for hours without a warming plate, which can lead to burnt tasting coffee.
Why We Recommend It: With its affordable price tag and superior tasting coffee, this coffee maker is a standout among budget coffee makers.
4. Cuisinart DCC-450BK 4-Cup Coffeemaker
The compact Cuisinart DCC-450BK 4-Cup Coffeemaker is ideal for those with limited counter space.
Pros:
- Compact design saves counter space
- Brew-pause feature allows you to enjoy a cup before brewing is complete
- Comes with a stainless steel carafe
Cons:
- Smaller capacity
- Lacks programmable features
Main Benefit: Its small size makes it an excellent option for those in need of a compact, budget coffee maker.
Why We Recommend It: Despite its small size, this machine brews a mean cup of coffee, making it an excellent option for coffee lovers with space constraints.
5. Ninja CE251 Programmable Brewer
The Ninja CE251 Programmable Brewer offers superior technology for a perfect brew, every time.
Pros:
- Custom brew strengths: classic or rich
- Large 60 oz. water reservoir
- 24-hour programmable delay brew allows you to prepare your brew in advance
Cons:
- Larger footprint requires more counter space
- Higher price point among the budget category
Main Benefit: This coffee machine offers custom brew strengths, letting you control the strength of your coffee.
Why We Recommend It: With its advanced features, the Ninja CE251 is well worth its price tag. This is the perfect choice for those who prioritize brew strength and taste.
In conclusion, you don't need to spend a fortune to find a good coffee maker. With a variety of features available, these coffee makers under $100 offer excellent value for your money. Whether you prioritize programmability, capacity, or brew strength, there's an option that will suit your needs.
We hope this list helps you find the perfect coffee maker to brew your favorite coffee grounds and enjoy a satisfying cup of coffee every time.
Budget Brews: A Comprehensive Buying Guide to the Top Coffee Makers Under $100
Finding the best coffee maker under $100 can be challenging, given the vast array of options available. Here, we'll guide you through the critical factors to consider when hunting for the perfect budget coffee maker.
1. Type of Coffee Maker
The type of coffee maker will significantly impact the coffee you want to brew. Some of the most common types are drip coffee makers and single-cup coffee makers that use pods. Choose the one that best suits your preferences and the kind of coffee you enjoy.
2. Carafe Type
Carafe type is an important consideration, with the main options being glass or thermal. A glass carafe is usually cheaper and allows you to see the coffee amount left. However, a thermal carafe keeps your coffee hot for a longer time without the need for a warming plate, which can lead to over-extracted, burnt tasting coffee.
3. Size and Capacity
How many cups of coffee do you typically brew at a time? If you only need a single cup, a single-serve or 4-cup coffee maker might be enough. But if you have multiple coffee drinkers in your home, or if you entertain frequently, you might prefer a coffee maker with a larger capacity.
Also, consider the counter space you have available. Some coffee makers can be quite bulky, while others are designed to be compact and save space.
4. Programmability and Features
Some coffee makers under $100 come with programmable features that allow you to set your brew to start at a specific time – a handy feature if you want to wake up to a freshly brewed pot.
Also, consider features such as brew strength control, auto-pause (so you can pour a cup before the brewing cycle is complete), and temperature control.
5. Water Reservoir
A removable water reservoir makes filling and cleaning easier. Also, consider the size of the reservoir if you don't want to refill it after every brew.
6. Coffee Grounds vs. Pods
Some coffee makers are versatile, allowing you to use either coffee grounds or pods. Pods offer convenience, but using your own coffee grounds usually results in fresher, better-tasting coffee and can be more economical and environmentally friendly.
7. Price
Even though we're talking about coffee makers under $100, there's still a considerable price range within this category. Balance the features you want with how much you're willing to spend.
Remember, the best coffee maker under $100 is one that suits your coffee habits, lifestyle, and budget. With this guide in hand, you'll be well-equipped to make an informed choice.
The Final Brew
And so, we've reached the end of our journey through the caffeinated landscape of the best coffee makers under $100. In this world of options, we've discovered that fantastic coffee doesn't demand a hefty price tag.
Each coffee maker in this list offers its unique blend of features, from glass carafes that display the hypnotic flow of your morning brew to programmable settings that cater to your schedule. We've explored coffee makers that brew a single perfect cup and those that cater to a crowd.
Coffee, as we know, isn't just a beverage. It's a ritual, an experience. It's the quiet companion to early mornings, the fuel to late-night brainstorming, the soothing end to a meal. It can be the conversation starter or the personal moment of reflection. And the best part is, you don't need to be a millionaire to savor the luxury of a well-brewed cup at home.
With this list, we hope you're well on your way to finding the perfect budget coffee maker that fits your lifestyle and taste preferences. So, go ahead. Brew that perfect cup. Let the aroma fill your space. Enjoy that first sip. Here's to the magic of coffee, and to finding your perfect brewing companion without breaking the bank.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can a coffee maker under $100 brew good coffee?
2. Can I find a programmable coffee maker under $100?
3. What is the difference between a glass carafe and a thermal carafe?
4. What is a brew strength control feature, and do I need it?
5. Is a single-cup coffee maker better than a multi-cup maker?
6. Are coffee makers that use pods better than those that use coffee grounds?
7. How often should I clean my coffee maker?
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