When you want to enjoy one of the most simple, yet beloved coffee types, you don’t have to wait in line or spend money. There are many different methods to enjoy an excellent espresso at home: the most convenient, cheaper, and fastest way is to let an espresso machine brew you some delicious cup of happiness.
And the best part is – it’s a lot cheaper, since not only you invest in an espresso machine, but you can also find a really cheap but high-quality option. If that is what you need, then the best espresso machine under $100 is waiting for you!
There are many good espresso machines, but only one of them can be considered the best home espresso machine under $ 100 in 2023, and we intend to find out which one. Here you’ll find the best models available, the brands to look for, the characteristics that you don’t want to miss in your cheap espresso machine, and much more!
So without further ado, let’s take a look at some of the best options in the market!
Top 7 Best Espresso Machines: Comparison Table
| Brand | Pressure | Milk Frother | Capsules Compatibility | Capacity | Dimensions | Weight |
| Bonsenkitchen | 20 bar | Yes | No | 1.25l | 9.42 x 5.99 x 13.79 inces | 9 pounds |
| De’Longhi | 15 bar | Yes | No | 1l | 13.5 x 8.07 x 11.22 inches | 4.89 pounds |
| Gevi | 15 bar | Yes | No | 1.5l | 14.37 x 12.87 x 10.87 inches |
2.35 pounds |
| IMUSA | 5 bar | Yes | No | 4 cups | 14 x 12 x 10 inches |
5.89 pounds |
| Lavazza | 9 bar | No | Yes | 0.9l | 13 x 5.3 x 10.2 inches | 7.7 pounds |
| Mixpresso | 19 bar | No | Yes | 0,8l | 13.03 x 10.79 x 6.18 inches | 6.47 pounds |
| Chefwave | 20 bar | No | Yes | 0,8l | 12.3 x 13.6 x 11.1 inches |
1 pound |
Best Espresso Machines Under 100 Dollars: Buyer’s Guide
When you want to buy a coffee machine but don’t know which one to choose, the most important thing you need to keep in mind is your budget. Knowing it will help you find the best espresso coffee machine within your price range. Depending on the price of the machine, it may have a lot of features, and some of the most essential and in-demand ones are:
- Compact dimensions
- Automatic cleaning system
- Rapid heating system
- Intensity regulator
- Frothing
- Automatic shutdown
Automatic vs. Semi-automatic: Which is Better?
Automatic espresso machines are the most expensive models on the market. While the price varies depending on the brand and the number of features, some automatic machines will probably cost higher than $100, around $250-300 for the basic model. They have fewer customizable settings, and perhaps require a little more demanding cleaning operations for the user. The more customizable and automated high-end models can instead cost up to $1000.
Even though semi-automatic machines are a little more time-demanding, they give you more choice in the amount of espresso that we want to produce. Furthermore, many good models of semi-automatic inexpensive espresso machines cost less than $100. Our recommendation, therefore, is that if you want the best espresso machine under 100 – choose a semi-automatic one!
Aspects to Consider Before Buying Your Espresso Machine Under $100
Getting espressos in a cafè every day can be quite expensive. Therefore, by investing in a high-quality and affordable espresso machine, you will be able to taste this delicious whenever you want it – fast and cost-efficient. However, before choosing one you need to understand what to look for in an espresso machine under $100.
The top espresso machine under $ 100 for home use must have almost the same functions as those a barista would use in a cafè. And in order to choose that, you need to pay attention to:
Size, Portability and Build Quality
The structure of an espresso machine is one of the most essential you need to pay attention to. It will ensure that the machine is suitable for the place that will host it and for a matter of convenience and practicality of use and maintenance.
You must also take into account its height, width, to make sure that the machine will fit in the place you want to place it.
The water tank’s capacity is also important, since the larger the capacity of this, the less frequently you will have to fill it.
Single or Double Shots
Some may think that an espresso machine under $100 should be spacious enough for double shots. If you are the only one at home that drinks espresso, a single shot machine will probably do. If instead you and your family all enjoy espressos, you might want to get a double shots machine, or you’ll spend a lot of time preparing espressos for everyone!
Pressure and Espresso Quality
The operating principle of espresso machines, both for domestic use and professional ones, is pressure. This means that inside these appliances, a pump pushes the water from the tank into the boiler, where it is heated up to a temperature of 194°F and is subsequently transferred to the filter. The pressurized water extracts the aroma and substances from the coffee, which give it its characteristic intense and full-bodied taste.
The quality of the espresso produced therefore largely depends on the pressure with which the water is pushed into the filter. Professionals of the sector argue that in order to obtain an optimal result, i.e. a fine espresso with a good taste, the pressure must be at least higher than 9 bars.
Frothing and Cappuccinos
Some machines also allow you to prepare creamy cappuccinos. They are equipped with a sort of spout, usually positioned next to the filter holder, which, based on the appliance’s sophistication, can be made of plastic or stainless steel. This component supplies the steam necessary to produce the creamy milk foam typical of cappuccinos.
Extra Functions
As for the espresso machine’s operation, there is a series of functions to look for. The most common are:
- Auto-off: It allows the machine to automatically stop after a certain period of non-use to avoid unnecessary energy consumption.
- Fast heating: Makes the appliance ready for use in a very short time.
- Memory: The machine is able to remember the settings selected to reproduce the type of drink you want, so you won’t have to without having to re-select them every time.
- Automatic stop of dispensing: The machine automatically stops dispensing water for the drink being prepared, so that it is not necessary to manually stop it.
Maintenance and Cleaning
It is also very important to consider how much time and effort you will have to devote to cleaning and maintaining the espresso machine. In order to ensure that even the best espresso machine under $100 proves practical and comfortable to use. Especially since it is used on daily basis.
All the best espresso makers are equipped with a removable water tank. Furthermore, espresso machines that work with ground coffee are among those that get dirty the most.
However, if your priority is practicality, you should consider only the best automatic espresso machines, that require very little maintenance.
Final Words
Coffee has become an inseparable part of our lives, and many people can’t imagine their day without at least one cup of this delicious beverage. Therefore, it becomes absolutely essential to have an efficient and inexpensive espresso machine at home. With its help, you can treat yourself, at any time you want, without having to worry about the lines in a coffee shop or potential expenses on this drink. You can just easily do all this in the comfort of your home!
A semi-automatic cheap espresso machine of fair quality allows you to prepare coffee as good as the one you’d drink at your favorite spot in the city. It gives you the opportunity to enjoy your espresso while saving money from your own home’s comfort. So hopefully now you know what to look for in the best espresso machine under $ 100 in 2023, and we hope that you’ll use knowledge to treat yourself with an essential home appliance of every coffee enthusiast!