Best Cheap Coffee Maker for Budget-Conscious Coffee Lovers
Coffee is a staple in many households, with millions of people relying on a cup or two to start their day. While some people prefer to purchase their coffee from a café, others prefer to make their own coffee at home. One of the essential tools for making coffee at home is a coffee maker. With so many options available, it can be challenging to choose the right one.
For those on a tight budget, a cheap coffee maker can be an excellent option. While they may not have all the bells and whistles of more expensive models, they can still produce a decent cup of coffee. When purchasing a cheap coffee maker, there are a few critical things to keep in mind. These include the type of coffee maker, the size, and the ease of use.
The type of coffee maker is essential because it can affect the taste of the coffee. Some people prefer drip coffee makers, while others prefer French press or pour-over coffee makers. The size of the coffee maker is also important, as it can determine how much coffee you can make at once. Finally, the ease of use is critical because you want a coffee maker that is simple to operate, even if you’re not a coffee expert.
In this article, we spent several hours researching and testing various cheap coffee makers to identify the best ones on the market. We’ll take a closer look at each coffee maker’s features, pros, and cons, to help you make an informed decision. Whether you’re a coffee enthusiast or just looking for a budget-friendly option, we’ve got you covered.
Best Cheap Coffee Makers
We understand that not everyone is willing to spend a fortune on a coffee maker, but that doesn’t mean you should settle for a subpar cup of coffee. After conducting extensive research and testing, we have compiled a list of the best cheap coffee makers that don’t compromise on quality. Whether you’re a college student on a tight budget or simply looking for an affordable option, we’ve got you covered. Check out our top picks below.
1) Mueller 12-Cup Drip Coffee Maker
If you’re looking for a reliable and affordable coffee maker, the Mueller 12-Cup Drip Coffee Maker might be a good fit for you.
PROS
CONS
We’ve been using the Mueller coffee maker for a few weeks now and have found it to be a reliable and easy-to-use machine. The glass carafe is durable and easy to clean, and the easy-grip handle makes pouring coffee a breeze. We appreciate that the carafe is dishwasher safe and made of non-porous borosilicate glass, which won’t absorb odors.
The reusable eco-filter is a nice touch, and we’ve found that it does enhance the flavor of the coffee. However, if you prefer to use paper filters, you still have that option. The keep-warm function works well and ensures that your coffee stays hot for up to 2 hours after brewing, which is perfect if you’re someone who likes to savor their coffee over a longer period of time.
Overall, we think the Mueller 12-Cup Drip Coffee Maker is a great option for anyone who wants a reliable and affordable coffee maker. While it may not have all the bells and whistles of some higher-end models, it gets the job done and produces a good cup of coffee.
2) BLACK+DECKER 12-Cup Digital Coffee Maker
If you’re looking for an affordable coffee maker that still delivers a great cup of coffee, the BLACK+DECKER 12-Cup Digital Coffee Maker is definitely worth considering.
PROS
CONS
Overall, we think the BLACK+DECKER 12-Cup Digital Coffee Maker is a solid choice for anyone looking for an affordable coffee maker that still delivers great results. The QuickTouch Programming feature and Sneak-a-Cup feature are both great additions that make this coffee maker very user-friendly. However, the lid and basket could be improved, and the coffee may not stay hot for very long after brewing.
3) BLACK+DECKER CM0915BKD 12-Cup Coffee Maker
If you’re on a budget but still want a reliable coffee maker, the BLACK+DECKER CM0915BKD 12-Cup Coffee Maker might be the perfect fit for you.
PROS
CONS
We’ve been using this coffee maker for a while now and have been impressed with how easy it is to use. The on/off switch is simple and straightforward, and the Sneak-a-Cup feature is a nice touch for those who can’t wait for the full pot to brew. The No-Drip Perfect Pour Spout is also a great feature that prevents spills and drips while pouring.
One downside to this coffee maker is that the carafe is not insulated, so the coffee may not stay hot for long. Additionally, the lack of an automatic shut-off feature may not be ideal for those who tend to forget to turn off their appliances. However, the Keep Hot Carafe Plate does help to keep the coffee at an ideal drinking temperature after brewing.
Overall, the BLACK+DECKER CM0915BKD 12-Cup Coffee Maker is a great budget-friendly option for those who want a simple and reliable coffee maker. It may not have all the bells and whistles of more expensive models, but it gets the job done and produces a great cup of coffee.
4) L’OR Barista System Coffee and Espresso Machine Combo by Philips, Black Matte Black
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly coffee maker that can make your favorite hot or iced coffee, latte, cappuccino, or espresso, the L’OR Barista System Coffee and Espresso Machine Combo by Philips is a great option.
PROS
CONS
We found the L’OR Barista System Coffee and Espresso Machine Combo by Philips to be a great budget-friendly option for coffee lovers. The wide capsule selection allowed us to choose from a range of delicious flavors and blends, and the machine poured six sizes of coffee and espresso, making it easy to customize our drinks. Plus, the machine heats up in just 25 seconds, so we didn’t have to wait long to enjoy our coffee.
However, we did find that the machine is not compatible with all coffee capsules, so we had to purchase L’OR or Nespresso* Original coffee machine capsules. Additionally, the L’OR Barista System is not as well-built as some other coffee makers on the market, and it may require regular cleaning to ensure it continues to work properly.
Overall, if you’re looking for a budget-friendly coffee maker that can make a variety of drinks, the L’OR Barista System Coffee and Espresso Machine Combo by Philips is a great option.
*Trademark of a third party, not affiliated with JACOBS DOUWE EGBERTS.
5) BLACK+DECKER 12 Cup Thermal Programmable Coffee Maker
If you’re searching for a coffee maker that can keep your coffee hot for a long time, then the BLACK+DECKER 12 Cup Thermal Programmable Coffee Maker is a great option.
PROS
CONS
We’ve been using this coffee maker for a few weeks now, and we’re happy with its performance. The thermal carafe keeps the coffee hot for up to two hours, which is perfect for those who like to savor their coffee slowly. The Vortex Technology ensures that the coffee grounds are evenly saturated, resulting in a rich and flavorful cup of coffee. Plus, the No-Drip Perfect Pour Spout prevents spills and drips while pouring, which is a great feature for those who are clumsy like us.
One downside of this coffee maker is that the thermal carafe is not dishwasher safe, so you have to wash it by hand. The coffee maker is also a bit bulky, so it may take up a lot of counter space. Another thing to note is that the coffee maker does not have a built-in grinder, so you have to grind your coffee beans separately.
Overall, we recommend the BLACK+DECKER 12 Cup Thermal Programmable Coffee Maker to anyone who wants a coffee maker that can keep their coffee hot for a long time and produces a rich and flavorful cup of coffee.
6) Cuisinart Coffee Maker, 14-Cup Glass Carafe, Fully Automatic for Brew Strength Control & 1-4 Cup Setting, Stainless Steel, DCC-3200P1 14-Cup Glass Stainless Steel
If you’re looking for a cheap coffee maker that doesn’t compromise on quality, the Cuisinart Coffee Maker is worth considering.
PROS
CONS
We’ve been using the Cuisinart Coffee Maker for a few weeks now, and we’re impressed with its performance. The coffee maker is easy to use and offers a range of features that make it a great choice for coffee lovers. The brew strength control is a nice touch, allowing us to customize our coffee to our liking. We also appreciate the 24-hour programmability, which allows us to wake up to a fresh pot of coffee every morning.
The 14-cup glass carafe is sleek and stylish, but it can be challenging to clean. We also wish that the coffee maker came with a thermal carafe to keep our coffee hot for longer. The water reservoir is not removable, which can make it challenging to fill and clean. However, these are minor issues that don’t detract from the overall performance of the coffee maker.
Overall, we would recommend the Cuisinart Coffee Maker to anyone looking for a cheap coffee maker that doesn’t compromise on quality. It’s easy to use, offers a range of features, and delivers a great cup of coffee every time.
7) Nespresso Vertuo Next Coffee and Espresso Maker
If you’re looking for an affordable coffee maker that can brew a variety of coffee formats, Nespresso Vertuo Next is a great option.
PROS
CONS
We’ve been using the Nespresso Vertuo Next for a few weeks now and we’re impressed with its performance. The machine is compact and fits perfectly in our kitchen. The sustainable design is a bonus, as it’s made of partially recycled materials. The precision brewing feature is a game-changer as it unlocks a smooth full-bodied coffee topped with a velvety layer of coffee foam, for a perfect cup every time. The included Aeroccino3 milk frother is another great feature, providing smooth hot or cold milk froth for our coffee recipes like cappuccino and latte.
However, it’s important to note that the machine is only compatible with Nespresso Vertuo capsules. The water tank capacity is also only 37 oz, so if you have a large household, you may need to refill it frequently. Finally, the machine is only available in one color, so if you’re looking for a coffee maker that matches your kitchen decor, this may not be the best choice.
Overall, we highly recommend the Nespresso Vertuo Next for anyone looking for an affordable coffee maker that can brew a variety of coffee formats. The machine is easy to use, has a sleek design, and delivers a delicious cup of coffee every time.
Buying Guide
When looking for the best cheap coffee maker, there are a few key features to consider. Here are some factors that we recommend keeping in mind:
Capacity
One of the most important things to consider is the capacity of the coffee maker. If you’re the only person in your household who drinks coffee, a smaller machine may be sufficient. However, if you have multiple coffee drinkers or entertain guests frequently, a larger capacity machine may be necessary.
Brew Strength Control
Some coffee drinkers prefer a stronger cup of coffee than others. If you’re one of those people, look for a coffee maker with brew strength control. This feature allows you to adjust the strength of your coffee to your liking.
Programmable Settings
If you’re someone who likes to have their coffee ready when they wake up or come home, look for a coffee maker with programmable settings. This feature allows you to set a specific time for your coffee maker to start brewing, so you can wake up to freshly brewed coffee.
Ease of Cleaning
Cleaning your coffee maker is important for maintaining the quality of your coffee and the longevity of your machine. Look for a coffee maker that is easy to clean, with removable parts that can be easily washed or placed in the dishwasher.
Price
Of course, price is an important factor when looking for the best cheap coffee maker. Keep in mind that a higher price tag doesn’t necessarily mean better quality. Look for a coffee maker that fits your budget and has the features you need.
By considering these factors, you can find the best cheap coffee maker that meets your needs and budget.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top features to look for in an affordable coffee maker?
When looking for an affordable coffee maker, there are a few key features to consider. Firstly, check if the coffee maker has a programmable timer so that you can set it to brew your coffee at a specific time. Secondly, look for a coffee maker with a reusable filter, which can save you money in the long run. Thirdly, check if the coffee maker has an automatic shut-off feature for safety. Lastly, consider the size of the coffee maker and whether it will fit in your kitchen.
How does the quality of coffee compare between budget and premium coffee makers?
While premium coffee makers may offer more features and a higher level of convenience, budget coffee makers can still produce good quality coffee. The key is to look for a coffee maker that has a good brewing system and a durable build. With proper care and maintenance, a budget coffee maker can produce coffee that rivals that of a premium coffee maker.
What is the most reliable budget coffee maker on the market?
There are several reliable budget coffee makers on the market, but the most popular and highly rated one is the Hamilton Beach 12-Cup Coffee Maker. It has a programmable timer, a reusable filter, and an automatic shut-off feature. It also has a sleek design and is easy to clean.
Can a coffee maker under $50 deliver good quality coffee?
Yes, a coffee maker under $50 can deliver good quality coffee. While it may not have all the bells and whistles of a premium coffee maker, it can still brew coffee that is rich and flavorful. The key is to choose a coffee maker with a good brewing system and to use high-quality coffee beans.
What are the best budget coffee makers for small spaces?
If you have a small kitchen or limited counter space, there are several budget coffee makers that are compact and easy to store. The Black+Decker SpaceMaker Under-the-Cabinet Coffee Maker and the Keurig K-Mini Plus Coffee Maker are both great options for small spaces.
How do I choose a coffee maker that offers the best value for money?
To choose a coffee maker that offers the best value for money, consider your specific needs and budget. Look for a coffee maker that has the features you need, such as a programmable timer or a reusable filter. Compare prices and read reviews to find a coffee maker that is reliable and durable.
