The 8 Best Espresso Machines Under $100 in 2022

Let me guess.

You can’t go a week without ordering a cup of cappuccino, latte, or pure espresso drink.

There’s just one problem:    

Ordering espresso every week (or day) isn’t a very wise financial decision, right?

The solution?

You can brew this luxurious beverage right from home and save the money used to order the same from the coffee shop.

I can almost hear you thinking, “the best espresso machines aren’t for everyone. They have a lofty price tag, and I’ll need more time to figure that out.”

Well, espresso machines can be heavy on your pocket, but you can still find the best espresso machines under $100.

For 100 dollars, you’ll most likely get an entry-level espresso maker. It may not automatically froth the milk, grind the beans, brew, or tamp the coffee.

Simply put, you’ll need to use a little elbow grease. But, that doesn’t mean you can’t use these machines to brew high-quality espresso drinks with a thick crema.

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Quick Glance: Our Top 3 Picks For Best Espresso Machines Under $100

1. De’Longhi Stilosa Manual Espresso Machine

2. Capresso 117.05 Espresso and Cappuccino Machine EC50

3. Mr. Coffee Automatic Dual Shot Espresso/Cappuccino System

Summary: Best Espresso Machines Under $100

The Best 8 Espresso Machines under $100

Without much ado, here are some of the best espresso machines you can get for under $100:

1. De’Longhi Stilosa Manual Espresso Machine

When it comes to making quality espresso machines, De’Longhi is among the top brands that win hands down. They have proven themselves to be a leader in the espresso world time and time again. 

Featuring a 15 bar pump, expect the optimal pressure to produce a single or double espresso. That means the resulting drink is perfectly rich.

The manual milk frother allows you to texture milk easily and make an authentic latte, cappuccino, or flat white.

Getting the best espresso machine under $100 doesn’t mean it’ll malfunction anytime soon. The stainless steel boiler comes with durable construction and robust design engineered to serve you for years.

When you have guests or are simply dealing with an exhausting day, you’ll find the two filters on the Stilosa handy. With this feature, you can make double espresso shots in no time!

Did we mention this machine comes in a compact and modern design as well? It’s a beautiful addition to the kitchen countertop, but doesn’t take up a lot of space.

Additionally, there’s a two-level cup holder that lets you use various cup sizes to have as little or as much espresso as you desire.

What We Like

• 15 bar pump for a truly rich espresso
• Stainless steel boiler for longevity
• Compact design to save you space
• Two filters for a double or single espresso
• Manual milk frother to make delicious lattes and cappuccinos

What We Don’t Like

• Heating the milk up takes a little longer (but you won’t need to wait for over 5 minutes to get everything ready).

Verdict

Do you love the classic Italian espresso shot? The features on the Stilosa manual espresso machine make this possible. How about you make it a part of your kitchen appliances?

2. Capresso 117.05 Espresso and Cappuccino Machine EC50, Stainless Steel Pump

When it comes to brewing espresso, consistency counts, which is why the choice of your machine matters.

Not only is the Capresso EC50 consistent, but it’s also fast. The machine has a stainless steel lined thermoblock heating system and 15 bars of pressure to deliver consistent pressure and temperature for the perfect espresso.

Want to keep your cups at the perfect temperature for serving? The warming tray makes this possible.

Ease of use is one of the reasons behind the popularity of the Capresso EC50. To brew coffee, just turn the dial to the right.

Want to try a rich latte or cappuccino instead of straight espresso? Simply turn the dial to the left to froth the milk and have your drink ready.

The ease of use doesn’t end there, though.

There’s a dual function sieve to make you one or two espresso drinks. The filter holder has a self locking mechanism with a thumb guard for effortless cleaning.

With its impressive amount of features this device earns it’s spot on our best espresso machine under $100 list but, there’s one more to share. 

It has the auto rinse feature! Simply put, the auto rinsing cycle helps to keep the right brewing temperature and so, you don’t have to wait between coffee brewing and milk steaming.

What We Like

• Removable (42 oz) water tank that’s easy to fill
• Dual function sieve
• Easy to clean
• Fast and consistent brewing
• Perfect froth for lattes and cappuccinos

What We Don’t Like

• A greater part of this machine is made of plastic so longevity can be a challenge

Verdict

The Capresso EC50 is a steal. If you are looking for an easy-to-use espresso machine that has an impressive amount of bells and whistles for under $100 this is a winner.

3. Wacaco Nanopresso Portable Espresso Maker

Weighing only 388 grams, this is undoubtedly one of the most lightweight and portable espresso machines under $100 on the market.

Versatility is one of the reasons many people love this machine.

Did you forget to brew a cup of espresso at home or just want to be able to brew it wherever you go?

The Nanopresso Portable Espresso Maker has got you covered. It can deliver quality espresso shots anywhere you go. No kidding!

You don’t need any electricity to operate it. With some help from your hands, this espresso maker can reach up to 18 bars of pressure (261 PSI), which is way above the pressure of most at-home coffee makers.

Want to travel and still enjoy your home-made espresso even while away? No worries, as this Nanopresso Portable Espresso Maker can fit into your bag with ease. Just remember to bring along the best ground coffee and have the ability to boil water.

This portable unit is also a fantastic work desk companion. Having espresso within reach throughout the day is never a bad thing.

What We Like

• Super portable
• Works without electricity
• High pressure for optimal extraction (and best flavor)
• Easy to operate
• Water tank can hold up to 80ml of water

What We Don’t Like

• Cleaning the device can take awhile
• It’s challenging to make a double espresso shot

Verdict

If you want access to espresso on the go without spending money at the coffee shop, the Wacaco Nanopresso should be your companion. 

4. Mr. Coffee Automatic Dual Shot Espresso/Cappuccino System

Weighing only 8.9 pounds and measuring 11.45 x 10.63 x 9.45 inches, Mr. Coffee Dual Shot System will brew you delicious espresso every morning without taking a lot of countertop space.

And on top of that, this machine will be an aesthetic addition to your kitchen.

Are you the type of brewer that can’t go a day without holding a cup of latte or cappuccino?

The Mr. Coffee Automatic Dual Shot System has a frothing arm to add a layer of creamy froth to your cappuccinos and lattes.

The 15-bar pressure pump on this espresso maker ensures that coffee brewed is not only balanced, but also perfect. In other words, no under-extracted or over-extracted coffee.

The coffee produced is dark, rich, and super delicious.

The 40oz removable water reservoir makes filling easy, and it’s large capacity will avoid constantly having to refill it.

Want to make two single shots at once? No worries, as this machine comes with dual-shot brewing capability.

Your brewing space doesn’t have to look messy anymore. The removable, washable drip tray keeps the space neat and tidy.

The touch display features brew, steam, and ready indicator lights that make brewing easy and fast.

What We Like

• Dual shot system
• 15-bar pump system for balanced brewing and quality espresso
• Frothing arm to make lattes and cappuccinos
• Simple controls for fast and easy brewing
• The stainless steel drip tray catches all drips
• Easy to clean

What We Don’t Like

• The frothing arm is too short

Verdict

If you are looking for the best espresso machine under $100 that’s easy to operate and makes high quality espressos, lattes, and cappuccinos, the Automatic Dual Shot System will do the job and do it well.

5. Hamilton Beach 40715 Espresso Machine with Steamer

The semi-automatic espresso maker from Hamilton Beach is black and silvery. Its body features strong and durable plastic and metallic construction.

You won’t strain any muscles moving this espresso machine, it weighs in at a very light 9 lbs. It measures 13 x 8.2 x 12.31 inches, small enough to tuck in the corner of your kitchen on the counter and grab the attention of anyone walking in.

This is one of the best espresso machines under $100 compatible with ESE pods. So, go ahead and use pre-measured espresso pods to brew a mighty cup. Keep the machine clean by simply throwing out any used pods.

Most importantly, you can still use freshly ground espresso or grind your espresso beans in a separate grinder.

Thanks to the adjustable steam control, you can make mochas, lattes, and cappuccinos from your kitchen any time. The adjustable steam control can take milk from scorching hot to a stiff and scoopable froth within seconds.

 But wait, there’s more.

The easy fill water tank is also removable. Simply put, you may remove the water tank from the machine, fill it up at your kitchen sink, and return it to the machine. You can also clean it.

And it gets even better. You can add water to the tank without first, turning the power off.

Cleaning the Hamilton Beach 40715 Espresso Machine is a snap. 

It’s not just the water reservoir that’s removable; the drip tray, frothing nozzle, brew head, and cup rest are too.. Just clean them with warm soapy water and you are all set.

What We Like

• Lightweight
• Durable
• Easy to clean
• Compatible with both ground coffee and easy serving espresso pods
• Milk frother to enjoy cappuccinos anytime
• Super powerful 15-bar pressure

What We Don’t Like

• The portafilter has a small capacity, so it can’t hold a lot of coffee
• The steamer needs a lot of charging to steam a cup of milk

Verdict

If you’re looking for an espresso machine that’s under $100, compatible with pods and easy to clean the Hamilton Beach 40715 Espresso Machine with Steamer is worth considering. 

6. Sowtech Espresso Machine 3.5 Bar – 4 Cup Espresso Maker

Whether you want to brew a cup of espresso for yourself or 4 cups for yourself and others, the Sowtech espresso maker will do.

There’s a frothing arm to help turn your espresso into a latte or cappuccino by giving it a creamier and fluffier texture.

Everyone should be able to enjoy tasty espresso daily regardless of their kitchen size. 

Sowtech had this in mind when designing this machine. It comes with a closed and compact structure that allows it to fit in a smaller space and measures 13.31 x 10.24 x 7.24 inches. 

Moving this machine across the countertop when cleaning shouldn’t be a hassle, as it only weighs 4.5 pounds, making it easy to carry around.

Espresso is delicious, but no one wants to spend a whole day brewing it, which is why this espresso maker from Sowtech has a push button operation that gives a light to indicate the machine’s operation. As a result, brewing a cup of coffee takes a short time and is also effective.

Additionally, there’s a coffee/steam selector and the on/off switch. An accurate temperature control helps to ensure the coffee tastes good, as it won’t burn.

Brewing coffee can make your kitchen messy due to drips. To keep your brew space tidy all the time, there’s a portable drip catcher for collecting coffee drips.

What We Like

• Compact size fits well in small kitchens and single apartments
• Easy to use
• Removable drip tray to keep the space clean
• Portable and easy to carry
• Has frothing capability
• Comes with a spoon and carafe

What We Don’t Like

• The device suddenly heats up
• Loses pressure over time and in turn the ability to brew 4 cups

Verdict

Want a compact and affordable machine that delivers rich espresso in record time? The 3.5 Bar 4 Cup Espresso Maker is worth adding to your short list.

7. Staresso Portable Espresso Maker

Staresso has designed an espresso maker that makes rich and tasty espresso with a thick crema like the one available at a quality Italian cafe.

This portable espresso maker is ideal for making tasty espresso while hiking, traveling, or camping. And the reason is very simple: it’s compact and portable.

The device only weighs 0.97 pounds and measures 8 by 2.7 inches. But don’t let these measurements fool you, as it can accommodate up to 80 ml of water and 0.53 ounces of ground coffee.

Using the Staresso Espresso Maker is easy and straightforward. 

A newly patented pumping system with 15 to 20 bars of pressure makes it easy to make manual espresso without any electricity. While the pressure is produced manually, it does require hot water to deliver a hot cup of espresso.

Cleaning this device is painless too. Rinse it a few times and it’s ready to brew you the next cup of Java.

This portable appliance has a stainless steel coffee chamber that can hold more pressure and serve you longer. It comes with a special spoon and an instruction manual. 

The spoon contains accurate markings to ensure you use the perfect amount of coffee each time.

But that’s not all.

The espresso maker works with both ground coffee and coffee pods. Just ensure that the pods come from paper-like materials rather than plastic. Note, you’ll need to puncture the pods as this espresso maker doesn’t have the ability to do that. 

What We Like

• Compact size for portability
• Manual operation
• Hassle free cleaning
• Compatible with ground coffee and pods
• It can make different coffee drinks, such as latte, cappuccino, cold brew, etc

What We Don’t Like

• Some users report that the device leaks occasionally

Verdict

If you live your life on the go or like camping, and hiking, you need the Staresso Portable Espresso Maker to make you a cup of espresso with a thick, yummy crema. Give it a shot!

8. Mr. Coffee BVMC-ECM180 Steam Espresso Maker

Making a great cup of Joe from the comfort of home needs to be hassle free and affordable, which is why Mr. Coffee designed the best espresso machine under $100. 

This espresso maker can brew up to 20oz of espresso. It comes with a milk frother for you to be able to enjoy a velvety rich latte or cappuccino.

Measuring 11.41 x 10.3 x 8.32 inches, this model is among the most compact. It weighs 5.7 lbs and has a modern finish.

Its shape fits almost anywhere. So, you can keep it in the kitchen, dining area, or closet.

Not only does the machine make coffee shop-grade espressos, but it also whips up your cappuccinos and lattes to their desired light, frothy texture.

And here’s an added bonus –

The espresso machine comes with two ceramic cups, a glass carafe, and a measuring scoop. 

The carafe has markings to determine the water level and to come up with the ideal coffee quantity, you can use the measuring scoop.

The glass carafe features a drip free spout and stay cool handle to make serving seamless and tidy. The carafe also has a small handle that’s comfortable to grip.

The steamer works surprisingly well and the device’s steam moves to the coffee beans, extracting the espresso into the decanter.

Featuring a built-in frother, frothing milk is no longer a chore. The milk steamer heats up the milk, preparing it to froth. The frothing pitcher is made of stainless steel which isn’t always easy to find at this price point.

What We Like

• Perfect size to fit pretty much anywhere
• Powerful milk frother to create creamy lattes and cappuccinos
• A measuring scoop, 2 ceramic cups, and glass carafe are included
• Removable drip tray to keep the space tidy
• Stainless steel frothing pitcher

What We Don’t Like

• Users experience the plastic parts breaking over time

Verdict

If you’ve been seeking an affordable espresso machine that helps you brew excellent espresso without any mess or hassle, the Mr. Coffee 20 oz Steam Espresso Maker will do the trick, every time.

Buyers Guide: How to Pick the Best Espresso Machine under $100

We have probably been made to believe that the more expensive and complicated a product is, the more efficient it is than the straightforward, simple models.

That is only true to an extent, especially when it comes to espresso machines. 

Any espresso machine worth considering needs to fit your personal needs. That doesn’t mean it has to be expensive or complicated. 

Manufacturers of espresso machines create machines with a wide range of bells and whistles. The more features a machine has the more you’re likely going to pay. 

Think about a car, there’s the base model and then prices go up from there but, both the base model and the loaded model will still get you from point a to point b.

In short, there is not much difference between the best espresso machine under $100 and the best automatic espresso machine if all you’re comparing is its ability to brew espresso. 

The amount of effort and precision you have to put into that brewing can however vary greatly. 

While at it, don’t fall for the cheap rip-offs which are anything but high quality. Yes, there are substandard espresso machines in the market, and they’re not worth your money.

We are not advising you to blindly pick just any espresso machine you come across. 

There are several espresso machine brands in the market right now, so choosing the right one could be tricky if you do not know what factors to consider.

That said, the following tips should guide you on how to pick the best espresso machines under $100:

Bars of Pressure

The rate at which your espresso machine will push the hot water to the compact coffee puck depends on the bar pressure. 

If you want a fast pulling espresso machine, go for one with at least 9 bars of pressure. A 9 bar pressure espresso machine pulls at around 2-3 oz every 30 seconds.

Any espresso machine with a rate beyond 9 may seem a better deal but the truth is, there is not much difference in performance. The difference is a matter of seconds, to be precise.

However, an espresso machine with lower bars of pressure will not give you the right quality of the pull. For instance, 5 bars of pressure cannot fully extract the desired shot from the grounds.

Milk Frother

Many coffee lovers want it served frothy or, in other words, when foaming. Hence, if you are one of those people, you undoubtedly would want an espresso machine with a frothing arm.

You can use the same to froth the milk for lattes and cappuccinos. The milk frother helps to pressurize the flow of milk. This pressure considerably decides the taste of your coffee.

But remember that how properly your milk froths depends much on your skills. 

Milk frothing is not just about turning it into your steamed latte milk. When choosing a milk frother, go for one that swivels because it is easy to use and saves your time.

Shot Capacity

A single espresso shot means 7g of ground coffee that produces 30ml of espresso. On the other hand, a double espresso refers to 14g of ground coffee that produces 60ml of espresso.

JavaPresse does a great job explaining single vs. double shots.

Some espresso machines under $100 can only brew a single shot while others have dual single shots. So, if you enjoy espresso but in moderation you may want to invest in a machine that makes single shots.

But if you prefer an intense and bold Italian-style espresso or more volume, go for an espresso machine with the ability to brew double shots.

Ease of Use

When you’re craving hot espresso, you want to have it as fast as possible, and that is why ‘instant coffee’ is such an appealing term.

You wake up in the morning, press the button, and your hot coffee is ready. But how fast you can get your espresso depends partly on how easy the machine is to use.

Look for features, such as a removable water tank for easy filling, a removable drip tray to make the space mess-free and even a warming tray to heat up the cups to the right serving temperature.

If a machine has most of the parts easily removable, then that makes it easy to clean and that’s always a good thing.

The steaming wand should be easy to operate too.

Do you want espresso on the go or a machine that can easily be moved for cleaning purposes? Gauge its portability as well.

All in all, when selecting an espresso machine, check ease of operation, which involves the steps and effort required for brewing. It can also include the additional equipment you may need.

ESE Pod Compatibility

Easy Serve Espresso (ESE) are pre-measured, small pods that you place in your espresso machine to save you from having to grind and measure the coffee beans yourself.

ESE was developed by an Italian company known as Illy. It is something close to teabags.

Using ESE pods ensures you get a great taste of espresso. But you will only benefit from the joy these pods bring if your espresso machine is compatible with them. 

If you want espresso on demand even if it’s just occasionally make sure the espresso machine you choose is compatible with ESE pods.

Is A Cheap Espresso Machine Worth Buying?

The short answer is Yes.

As seen from our list above, there are plenty of powerful espresso machines that are priced under $100.

You can brew coffeehouse-grade espresso using any of the machines mentioned in our reviews.

Most of these machines have all the basic features covered; easy to clean, easy to operate, durable, ability to froth the espresso to tasty cappuccinos and lattes, portability, etc.

You’ll notice we listed the best espresso machines under $100 from some of the best brands in the world and sticking with established brands gives you peace of mind that quality isn’t an issue. 

These brands have created different espresso machines to match the varying budget needs of home coffee brewers like you and me.

Just be sure to keep in mind the factors explained in our buying guide before acquiring a cheap espresso machine. If you do your due diligence, you’ll land a machine that will serve you for years.

Final Word

Finding the right espresso taste for you would involve a series of experiments. While your brewing skills have a role to play, so much depends on the type of espresso machine you have.

Therefore, the journey begins with selecting the best espresso machine under $100.

Fortunately, you do not have to break a bank to get one, as we have seen. With a budget under $100, you can find an efficient, reliable, and durable espresso machine to enjoy brewing your coffee from the comfort of home.

Of course, your espresso machine will continue to be efficient and effective only if you uphold the highest maintenance standards as envisioned in the manual. No matter its quality, your espresso machine can only last long if you take the time to clean it properly.

Happy brewing while not breaking the budget!