More often than not we have no other choice but to go for a more affordable appliance rather than the best available option. But with the current state of the small appliance maker, there really is no reason why it can’t be both.
Recent years have seen many top manufacturers of espresso machines focus on producing high-quality products for the under-$100 price range, with a specific focus on models with a more operation and mainstream brewing capacity.
Among those,you will mostly see familiar names but there are a few outliers that are still worth looking at, especially if you work on a budget.
List of Top Espresso Machines Under $100
| Photo | Product | Capacity | Power | Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
 | SOWTECH CM6811 | 10 oz | 3.5 bars | View on Amazon |
 | Hamilton Beach 40715 | 40 oz | 15 bars | View on Amazon |
 | De’Longhi EC155 | 35 oz | 15 bars | View on Amazon |
 | Yabano CM6816 | 10 oz | 3.5 bars | View on Amazon |
 | Mr. Coffee ECMP50-RB | 40 oz | 15 bars | View on Amazon |
 | IMUSA USA GAU-18215 | 10 oz | 5 bars | View on Amazon |
 | Miho CM-01A | 10 oz | 3.5 bars | View on Amazon |
How to Choose a Good Espresso Machine Under $100?
This price range is a fairly diverse one, offering espresso machines in a range of sizes and designs, from $40 four-cup brewers to more powerful family-sized models, though it must be said that all of them come with built-in frothers for making cappuccino, latte, and other creamy beverages.
Pressure
The first thing you should always look for in an espresso machine is the capacity of its pressure pump.
Most inexpensive brewers come with standard 3.5-bar or 5-bar pumps and those that veer closer to the upper margin of $100 are usually equipped with more capable 15-bar pumps.
The latter is recommended by most experts as the best appliances for making strong espresso at home.
Capacity
The next defining factor is the water capacity followed closely by the design of the machine’s reservoir.
It’s always best to buy espresso machines with removable water tanks since those can be refilled and washed right in the sink and away from the countertop.
For larger households, it would be more reasonable to buy a model with a medium 35-40-ounce tank, while those living alone could reduce expenses and go for a compact 4-cup brewer.
Maintenance
If time is of the essence, always look closely at espresso makers with self-cleaning functions, glass pots if provided, washable and removable components, more durable materials like stainless steel, and compatibility with soft pods.
It might also be wise to check for availability of the replacement parts for each specific model, given that customer service support may differ greatly between areas.
Review of the Best Espresso Machines Under $100
SOWTECH CM6811
When it comes to mid-range espresso makers in this budget category, the Sowtech CM6811 holds the firm middle place in terms of reasonable pricing and familiar functional simplicity. Encased in stainless steel and plastic, the coffee machine also includes a manual frother wand and a small glass carafe for precise measurement of water and coffee.
Features:
- Capacity: 4 cups
- Power: 3.5 bars
- Wattage: 800 watts
- Controls: Rotary
- Dimensions: 10.63” x 7.68” x 13.78”
- Item weight: 4.99 pounds
Pros:
- Dorm-friendly design fits small kitchens
- Easy to transport, hook up, and clean
- Includes a compact carafe with an ergonomic handle
- Lockable coffee filter
- One manual knob simplifies coffee brewing
At only seven-and-a-half inches wide and around ten inches deep, the CM6811 follows a more compact style of a residential espresso maker aimed at standard countertops and smaller prep areas as it doesn’t take a whole lot of space during brewing, cleaning, or refilling.
The extraction of the espresso from coffee grounds is conducted by the machine’s heater paired with the domestic-grade pressure pump with the maximum power output of 3.5 bars.
Given that the integrated water tank holds just enough water to make 4 two-ounce cups of espresso, the small carafe with a brew-through lid is meant to hold up to 10-12 ounces of water which produce between 8 and 10 ounces of espresso. Moreover, this model is capable of retaining drink-safe coffee temperatures (around 172-176°F) after brewing.
The addition of a classic steam wand opens up other brewing options, namely cappuccino, latte, and mocha. Though the machine’s manual frother can also be used to create delicious foam for your other drinks like cocoa or tea.
The espresso maker’s single-dial operation includes a visible indicator and 4 main settings: coffee brewing, milk foaming, brew/foam pause in case you need to briefly interrupt the process and brew/foam stop to end the process.
Hamilton Beach 40715
It’s no surprise to see Hamilton’s Appliance products make it on a best-of list, especially for less expensive coffee makers. The company is rather famous for their absolute dedication to making espresso and cappuccino machines more accessible without cutting down on their functional aptness.
And Hamilton Beach 40715 is no exception, offering a powerful boiler and pump combo for pristinely controlled espresso brewing even in the comfort of your home.
Features:
- Capacity: 40 ounces
- Power: 15 bars
- Wattage: 1050 watts
- Controls: Push-button, rotary
- Dimensions: 13” x 8.2” x 12.31”
- Item weight: 8 pounds
Pros:
- Two-spout dispenser for brewing double espresso shots
- Removable components and easy-clean surface
- Adjustable steam strength for more intricate frothing
- Capable pressure pump and fast heating
This is one of the more capacious espresso machines on the list—at least when set in comparison to four-cup and single-serve models—since it comes with its own removable water reservoir designed to fit up to 40 ounces of water.
Applying the powerful 1050-watt boiler and 15-bar Italian pump to push hot water and steam through the filter, the 40715 is capable of making coffee shop grade espresso in mere seconds without any additional tweaks on your part.
The coffee filter supports pre-ground coffee as well as pre-packaged soft pods, and the machine’s dual dispenser nozzle allows you to fill two standard espresso cups at the same time.
As for the frothing section, the 40715 uses a traditional swing wand that produces steam the intensity of which can be regulated with the handy rotary dial.
Cleaning is also less cumbersome with this model. In addition to the removable water tank, other parts can be detached for rinsing or washing, including the cup platform, drip-collecting tray, coffee holder, steamer nozzle, and even the brew head.
De’Longhi EC155
By now, De’Longhi’s easily recognizable design has become an industry benchmark to strive for, particularly in regards to espresso machine construction, performance, and the effective interconnection of the two.
So it’s fair to say that De’Longhi EC155 is one of the prime examples of reasonably-priced quality manufacturing that guarantees powerful output but doesn’t overburden a less than a casual user.
Features:
- Capacity: 35 ounces
- Power: 15 bars
- Wattage: 1100 watts
- Controls: Rotary
- Dimensions: 12.2” x 19.3” x 15”
- Item weight: 6.68 pounds
Pros:
- Uses advanced cappuccino system to maintain fresh brew temps
- Maximum supported drinkware height is 2.6 in/6.6 cm
- Opaque 35-ounce tank and coffee filter are removable
- Durable stainless steel boiler
- Washable drip tray with light stainless steel cup rest
Similar to other mid-range espresso machines from De’Longhi, the EC155 utilizes a pro-style pump that reaches the maximum pressure levels of at 15 bars—the ideal power capacity for brewing barista-quality espresso in a domestic setting.
The EC155 also features two heating elements designed to provide hot water and steam independently. This is done to mainly give you more control over each process but also to minimize energy consumption and speed up the brewing process.
Additionally, this model gives you more options when it comes to adjusting brew sizes and brew-strength. The coffee filter comes with a three-in-one holder meant to hold precise ground count for a single or double espresso. It can also take most pre-measured E.S.E pods.
Optional pre-heating is also included in the machine’s feature set and can be used to save time in the morning or get fresh espresso faster. Located on the left-hand side, the manual jet steamer can be pulled to the front for easier frothing and, alternatively, swivelled to the back when not in use.
The interface of this model is almost fully-manual, featuring a single classic control knob on the front panel for brewing customization as well as a rotary steam-adjustment dial on the top of the machine.
Yabano CM6816
Also marketed under the name Aicook, this Yabano CM6816 espresso machine is small, light, and accessible in both operation and maintenance.
Features:
- Capacity: 4 cups
- Power: 3.5 bars
- Wattage: 800 watts
- Controls: Rotary
- Dimensions: 13.1” x 7.7” x 10”
- Item weight: 4.7 pounds
Pros:
- Can be tucked safely under low cabinetry
- Manual steamer for making cappuccino and latte
- One dial to control all settings
- Small glass pot made to fit the nozzle to avoid leaks
As one of the most lightweight and compact models on the list, the CM6816 is especially suitable for students, office workers, long-stay travellers, and single-person apartments.
Similar to other appliances in this category, the small yet capable Yabano generates 3.5 bars of pressure and applies a fairly powerful 800-watt heating element to produce quick and rich espresso.
With its anti-drip cap and 4-cup capacity, the inner water tank prevents frequent leakages and contains enough water for preparing 4 strong cups of espresso. Considering that each cup measures about 2 ounces and the water tank can fit up to 5 measures, you might be able to make up to 10 ounces of espresso without any refills.
The familiar design of the machine’s frothing nozzle not only lets you choose your own way to foam milk but also makes it much easier to clean the components after frothing. Complimentary glass pot can also be used to measure water, coffee, and milk.
Mr. Coffee ECMP50-RB
This cafe-style Mr. Coffee ECMP50-RB espresso machine brings full brewing automation to your morning routine and makes it even more efficient with its double-shot dispensing system and manual cappuccino frother.
Features:
- Capacity: 40 ounces
- Power: 15 bars
- Wattage: 1250 watts
- Controls: Rotary
- Dimensions: 12” x 11” x 12.5”
- Item weight: 8.8 pounds
Pros:
- Includes a book of recipes and a tamper
- Stainless steel drip tray is easy to remove and wash
- Comfortable 26-inch cord length
- Indicates brewing status and water shortage
- Dual spout for faster espresso serving
Powered by an impressive 1250-watt thermoblock, the ECMP50-RB uses its single boiler to significantly speed up the heating process and therefore cuts down on the overall brewing time.
Together with the 15-bar pump, the machine’s brewing system manages to reach higher coffee saturation and extraction levels, resulting in faster and richer espresso servings.
As for the actual serving portions, the ECMP50-RB allows for both single and double shots, though only on the condition of using standard 2-ounce espresso cups. The coffee holder uses interchangeable Portafilters so the switch between brew sizes is practically effortless.
The kit also comes with a useful tamper to press the grounds inside a Portafilter and achieve a more even saturation.
With the total capacity of 40 ounces, the machine can serve up to 20 standard espresso shots before the removable water reservoir needs to be refilled.
A single rotary switch with three functional positions is located on the right side of the coffee machine while the four indicator lights are placed on the front panel for easy monitoring.
IMUSA USA GAU-18215
Another compact model with a rather attractive pricing—though this time sporting a slightly different, more modern design—the IMUSA GAU-18215 may be slightly larger than other 4-cup espresso makers, but it more than compensates for its dimensions with its powerful pressure pump and pro-style controls.
Features:
- Capacity: 4 cups
- Power: 5 bars
- Wattage: 800 watts
- Controls: Handle
- Dimensions: 12.2” x 12” x 10.4”
- Item weight: 5.69 pounds
Pros:
- Unique slanted design adds class to any kitchen space
- Fast serving of 4 two-ounce espresso cups in one go
- Conveniently stores espresso in a flavor-preserving glass pot
- Safely positioned frother arm with manual control
The machine’s smart pairing of a classic 800-watt heater and much stronger 5-bar pump means that you will be able to get better-tasing espresso with textured flavors and richer aroma, all without reducing the general time efficiency.
With its light plastic body and stainless steel dispensing system, the GAU-18215 is easy to move or set up in smaller spaces, and its contemporary black-and-silver exterior design will fit most kitchen layouts.
It also includes a manual steamer, an ergonomic cup stand with a washable drip tray, and a small glass pot designed to fit up to 4 espresso portions. The carafe’s brew-through lid may restrict drinkware compatibility but it does everything to minimize leakages.
The machine’s barista-style brew-control handle is fairly responsive and gives you more control over the brewing or frothing process. Moreover, the coffee filter comes with a plastic latch to prevent dripping.
Miho CM-01A
With just over 3 pounds in weight and 6.7 inches in width, the Miho CM-01A is without a doubt the smallest and most portable espresso machine on the list, incorporating a powerful thermal system and washable components into its lightweight body while preserving the smooth lines of its universally appealing design.
Features:
- Capacity: 4 cups
- Power: 3.5 bars
- Wattage: 800 watts
- Controls: Rotary
- Dimensions: 6.69” x 12.75” x 12.8”
- Item weight: 3.68 pounds
Pros:
- Lighter and smaller than regular 4-cup brewers
- Drip-free brew-through dispensing system
- Indicator light displays on/off status
- Tightly sealed water cap
Equipped with a classic 3.5-bar pressure pump and 800-watt heating element, the CM-01A proves that its more modest exterior isn’t indicative of the lack of power.
Though the machine’s hardware falls more in the mid-range category, it’s more than enough heating power for an espresso maker of this size, capable of brewing up to 8 ounces of espresso in under 4 minutes.
For even more beverage versatility, the CM-01A offers an easy-swivel frother arm to create cappuccino and other creamy drinks by adding multi-textured foam to the espresso. Both the frother and the brewer can be controlled with a simple rotary dial found on the right side of the unit.
Coffee grounds are loaded inside the detachable filter with volume measurement lines
that can be washed after each use, and the fresh espresso is dispensed straight into the glass carafe with a heat-resistant handle and water level gauge.
Q & A
Even a fairly inexpensive espresso machine is capable of producing an excellent espresso shot if its steam pump provides sufficiently high pressure, preferably no lower than 15 bars since it’s the golden industry standard.
So when browsing for an inexpensive espresso maker, you might definitely want to pay attention to the hardware specification of each model. A good inexpensive option with a 15-bar pump would be the De’Longhi EC155 that creates enough steam-generated pressure to extract the best out of your coffee grounds.
In order for you to be sure that an espresso coffee machine is worth the money, it should at least be capable of producing a decent amount of pressure needed to brew the actual espresso as well as a powerful heating element since it affects the speed of brewing.
And of course, a machine of this type should also be easy to clean and descale. Among the most suitable options are the Hamilton Beach 40715 and Mr. Coffee ECMP50, both of which exhibit prices that are fully consistent with their functionality.
As a general rule, espresso machines in this price range demonstrate exceptional levels of performance regardless of the manufacturer, though the flavor of the actual espresso may vary depending on the extraction.
An average $500-and-below espresso maker is still a fully-automatic appliance that conducts a self-check before every cycle and alerts of any issues should they arise. This mainly involves checking whether the coffee filter is empty or water levels are too low, how full the waste basket is, and more.
One such espresso maker is Breville BES810BSSUSC Duo Temp Pro with beautifully done stainless steel design, powerful steam system, and large water tank, though its controls are only partially digital.
Beginners and casual coffee drinkers won’t get much use out of overpriced coffee machines with complicated controls and maintenance routines. So if you are a novice who wants to enter the complex world of espresso-making, fairly basic espresso machines would be a good place to start.
Most entry-level espresso machines are automatic and some even include their own built-in coffee grinders. A good entry-level brewer doesn’t mean an expensive brewer, though. Any beginner will only need their first espresso maker to have a water tank (preferably removable), a milk frother (automatic or manual), and simple controls.
A brewer with the most basic set of features is also one of the most reliable appliances of its type, so as long as an espresso machine allows you to make latte, cappuccino and espresso, you will be able to get your daily serving of espresso without any complication.
One of the best entry-level models is the Hamilton Beach 40715 with a large removable water tank, washable parts, and coffeeshop-style pressure pump. A smaller yet pretty powerful entry-level alternative would be the 4-cup IMUSA GAU-18215 that comes with a much more ergonomic design compared to other models of similar dimensions.
Both DeLonghi and Breville are more or less on equal footing when it comes to being widely recognized as high-quality home-brew brands. They also don’t stray far from one another in terms of price-to-functionality ratio for espresso machines, though mostly for those under and over $200.
As a more widely known name, DeLonghi is a more accessible brand with more traditional designs and better availability of spare parts. On the other hand, Breville espresso machines have shown to be more enduring thanks to the intricacies of design and materials used in making hardware and other functional parts.
Generally speaking, you won’t be making a mistake in buying espresso machines from either of these brands, but Breville might save you a good number of repairs and you won’t find yourself hunting down replacement parts every six months.
Many Starbucks coffeehouses are equipped with custom-designed Mastrena espresso machines with high-performance output and manual operation. These appliances are rather hefty and could be difficult to use outside commercial purposes.
The capacity of a pressure pump is generally the best indicator of an espresso machine’s brewing potential—the higher the pressure, the better the flavor.
A good espresso maker should be able to generate at least 15 bars for the optimal coffee processing, though this level of steam pressure is only the lowest margin required for brewing decent espresso.
Appliances with pressure pumps that exceed 15 bars often feature a built-in gauge to indicate the pressure generated by the pump during the cycle. These espresso makers show even more promise in extracting the best possible flavor and aroma from fresh and pre-packaged grounds, and this is precisely why they tend to be so expensive.
Compared to other stainless steel brewers of similar semi-pro lines, Breville Barista Express exhibits significantly more power but even when it matches the capacity of its competitors, it manages to outdo them in price and accessibility.
This espresso machine is semi-automatic, meaning it allows you to brew coffee close to that of popular coffeehouses. Of course, this level of functionality also takes longer to master, but learning how to navigate the machine’s controls is a small price for the quality of coffee it can produce.
It depends on how much money you are willing to invest in a single purchase. Expensive coffee machines for home use are able to brew one-touch espresso, cappuccino, and latte in a wide range of sizes. Some of these models even have last-brew memory features that can track the habits of every family member, from preferred brew strength to serving size.
Still, many leading brands make simpler inexpensive espresso machines with brewing systems that could produce espresso almost as tasty and aromatic as those brewed by fancier models.
De’Longhi is a frequent go-to brand for residential espresso makers, particularly classic cappuccino makers like De’Longhi EC155—but many casual coffee enthusiasts choose domestic brands such as Hamilton’s Appliance or Mr. Coffee, in particular their more affordable models.
When classifying coffee makers by price, it must be remembered that the resulting categories may often coincidentally unify espresso machines based on their functionality but it’s not always the case.
As such, the vague outlines of the under-$200 category include both portable and rather basic brewers as well as top-performing cappuccino makers with programmable features. One of those is the stainless steel Cuisinart EM-200 that boasts a 15-bar pump along with extended programmability. Other powerful models in this range include the multi-purpose Klarstein BellaVita, the fully-automatic Mr. Coffee BVMC-ECMP1000-RB, and the much more traditional KRUPS XP3208 with a manual steamer and familiar design.
In order to determine how much you are ready to give for an espresso machine, you need to understand what level of control you want to have over the brewing process.
Fully-automated residential espresso machines can be fairly expensive, mostly due to the addition of built-in grinders and various digital features, but half or fully-manual models can be just as expensive if they come from a manufacturer that primarily deals with professional appliances.
All in all, if owning an elite appliance isn’t important to you but you still want your espresso to be consistently flavorful and strong, then be prepared to spend $200 at the very least. This is not to say that anything cheaper than $200 is of inherently poor quality, but that it’s rather entry-level and more suited for very casual and infrequent coffee drinkers.
Many coffee lovers and experts believe that the process of brewing espresso should be considered the only real type of coffee brewing, so it could only be made using an espresso machine.
In any case, if it’s hard for you to imagine your day without a morning cup of espresso, cappuccino or latte, then you might certainly benefit by investing in an espresso machine, even the models that belong to the lower price bracket.
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