The Best Budget Coffee Makers Of 2023
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Brewing quality coffee at home needn't cost a fortune. In fact, when it comes to coffee machines, minimal investment can go a long way. And with the high price of cups of Joe at coffee shops, brewing your own coffee can also save you a lot of cash. Market research firm NPD Group reported the average cost of a brew at a coffee shop in 2022 was $4.90 (via The Wall Street Journal). Meanwhile, a cup of coffee brewed at home will set you back as little as 15 cents, as explained by The Commons Cafe.
From small filters that sit on your coffee cup to programmable espresso machines, budget coffee makers come in many shapes and sizes. In fact, the market is saturated with stovetop coffee makers, French presses, and pour-over brewing devices as well as a huge range of espresso machines. No matter their design or price, however, all quality coffee makers have one thing in common — they all make aromatic and rich cups of Joe.
How we selected products
There's nothing like starting your day with a delicious cup of coffee. As such, having a quality coffee maker on hand can be a game — or rather a morning — changer. Unfortunately, many budget coffee makers on the market just don't cut the mustard, producing substandard brews that are closer in appearance to dishwater than coffee. This being said, there're also plenty of gems out there that can help you make barista-quality coffee at home without costing a small fortune.
Nevertheless, with so many low-cost coffee makers, you might be forgiven for feeling a little overwhelmed. This is where our list of the best budget coffee makers of 2023 can help. To make our selection, we looked at dozens of well-known and not-so-well-known brands and carefully examined their products. We also consulted expert and community reviews to ensure that the coffee makers we selected are worth your time and money.
Ready to enjoy aromatic and flavorful coffee in the comfort of your own home? Take a look at our list of the best budget coffee makers of 2023!
Best overall budget coffee maker
The Mr. Coffee coffee maker is both effective and ultra easy to use. The 12-cup drip coffee maker comes with a glass carafe and a water reservoir with clear windows so you always know when your machine needs a refill. To brew a cup of coffee, simply place your ground beans in the removable filter basket (you'll need to purchase paper filters separately) and turn the gadget on. And if you need a quick caffeine fix before the brewing process is complete, the gadget comes with a Grab-A-Cup Auto Pause function. The Mr. Coffee coffee maker is backed by a one-year limited warranty.
Clearly impressed with the appliance, Coffeeness praises the coffee maker for its simple operations. And while the platform highlights that the appliance doesn't come with the bells and whistles of some of its counterparts, such as an auto shut-off function, it also points out that as far as entry-level coffee makers go, you can't beat it. The Coffee Affection echoes this sentiment, saying that the brewing machine is an affordable and reliable option. The platform also states that even though its pause function may leave the warming plate with a few drips, the Mr. Coffee coffee maker is a great choice at this price point.
At the time of this writing, you can purchase the Mr. Coffee coffee maker from Amazon starting at $33.41.
Best stovetop budget coffee maker
Also called Moka pots, stovetop coffee makers do their magic by passing steam-pressurized water through ground coffee. The little jugs usually produce quite concentrated coffee, so be sure to fill the water chamber up to its limits if you're after a less intense brew, as Daily Mail explains. Available in a variety of capacities, from 1 to 12 cups, the Primula stovetop espresso and coffee maker is suitable for electric, gas, and ceramic stovetops. The handy aluminum appliance comes with a stainless steel valve and silicone gasket for optimal durability. Plus, it boasts a cool-touch handle and a non-drip spout.
The Primula stovetop espresso and coffee maker has received top marks on various platforms, including 8.6 out of 10 on Don't Waste Your Money and 4.5 out of 5 on Amazon. One happy Amazon shopper says that they love the gadget, adding, "It's super easy to use and clean. Espresso gets made in five minutes and it's way cheaper than a Nespresso machine for the same results!" When it comes to the ease of cleaning, the opinions seem mixed, with one Amazon reviewer saying, "A bit difficult to clean, especially the funnel and smaller pieces. If you [can't] clean those, I'm sure you'll get a buildup of old coffee eventually."
At the time of this writing, you can purchase the one-cup Primula stovetop espresso and coffee maker from Amazon starting at $10.99.
Best pour-over budget coffee maker
If you like complete control over the coffee-making process, then the Bodum pour-over coffee maker has you covered. To brew your coffee, simply place the coffee grounds inside the cone basket and pour boiling water over the contents in a spiral pattern. Combining a borosilicate glass carafe with a stainless steel filter, the stylish kitchen gadget doesn't require additional paper filters, making it great for both the environment and the pocket. And after all is said and done, the appliance can be popped in the dishwasher for easy cleaning. The pour-over coffee maker from Bodum comes in three sizes: 17, 34, and 51 ounces (via Amazon).
Standing testament to its quality, the Bodum pour-over coffee maker has received an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars from over 38,000 Amazon shoppers. One satisfied customer who purchased the 17-ounce coffee maker says, "I needed a pour-over that was affordable, simple, had a large enough opening to easily clean, and I like a brand I can trust. This checks off every box. [...] I can make 1 or 2 cups of coffee, and not waste a thing." Another shopper agrees, saying, "This pour over system is amazing. The stainless filter is well machined and smooth. The holes are small enough to hold back all but the finest coffee particles."
At the time of this writing, you can purchase the34-ounce Bodum pour-over coffee maker from Amazon starting at $18.63.
Best portable budget coffee maker
Ideal for couples or those flying solo, the Mixpresso 2-in-1 coffee maker won't take up a lot of space in your kitchen. The lightweight and compact gadget is also highly portable so you can easily take it along when you travel. Available in four colors, the drip coffee maker comes with a 14-ounce stainless steel tumbler that keeps your coffee warm while you go about your day. Some of the other features of this sleek drip brewing machine include a removable basket, a reusable mesh filter, and an automatic shut-off function. The Mixpresso 2-in-1 coffee maker comes with a one-year warranty.
The Mixpresso 2-in-1 coffee maker has been rated 4.4 out of 5 stars by more than 7,000 Amazon customers, with 68% of shoppers awarding it 5 out of 5 stars. One buyer calls the coffee maker a game changer, adding, "Perfect one cup coffee maker! Nothing hard to it, just fill with cup of water, pour small amount of coffee into strainer, close lid and hit the power button and Presto! I love it!" Another shopper agrees, saying, "We received this dainty coffee maker yesterday. The set up is perfect. It takes up very little space. The open basket brews a nice cup of coffee. I can see taking this when I travel."
At the time of this writing, you can purchase the Mixpresso 2-in-1 coffee maker from Amazon starting at $23.99.
Best French press budget coffee maker
Simple yet effective, a French press steeps coffee grounds in water before separating the brew from the grounds with a built-in plunger, as explained by Good Housekeeping. The cylindrical pot can also be used to make tea from fresh and dried herbs. Made with sturdy borosilicate glass and a four-filter stainless steel plunger, the Utopia Kitchen French press comes in three sizes — 12, 34, and 51 ounces. It's also available in nine appealing colors, including black, white, red, and gold (via Amazon).
Overall, the Utopia Kitchen French press has been awarded favorable ratings across different platforms, including an impressive 9.2 out of 10 on Don't Waste Your Money and 8.4 out of 10 on Best Views Reviews. The French press has also received 4.5 out of 5 stars from more than 7,000 Amazon shoppers. One Amazon customer who purchased the coffee maker for their partner says, "For the price I highly suggest this product. His coffee comes out tasting great, and sometimes I even use it for my loose leaf tea. It's easy to clean and use too!"
At the time of this writing, you can purchase the Utopia Kitchen 12-ounce French press from Amazon starting at $16.49.
Best cold brew budget coffee maker
Mellow and low in acidity, cold brew coffee tends to be smoother than standard coffee, as noted by Blackout Coffee. Nevertheless, making cold brew does require a fair bit of patience — after all, the process takes at least 12 hours. Luckily, a quality appliance, such as the Takeya deluxe cold brew coffee maker, can make the job of preparing your cold brew a little less taxing.
The cylindrical utensil comes with a fine-mesh filter that keeps coffee grounds from penetrating the water during the brewing process. Better still, once brewed, the concentrated coffee can be stored in the tightly sealed jug for up to two weeks to make both hot and cold beverages. The Takeya deluxe cold brew coffee maker can be popped in the dishwasher for convenient cleaning.
Homegrounds calls the Takeya coffee maker "one of the most straightforward and affordable" cold brew makers on the market, awarding it 4.6 out of 5 stars. Highlighting that the gadget consists of just three components, the platform states that it's perfect for beginners. The Coffee Maven also gives the coffee maker a solid review, rating it 86 out of 100. In particular, the platform praises the appliance for its affordability and ease of use. On the downside, The Coffee Maven points out that the gadget's filter does let some sediment into the jug.
At the time of this writing, you can purchase the one-quart Takeya deluxe cold brew coffee maker from Amazon starting at $20.
Best espresso machine budget coffee maker
If you love the rich flavor of espresso but aren't into manually brewing your coffee, the Mr. Coffee espresso machine has your back. Simple to use, the appliance comes with a sizable four-shot portafilter and a water pitcher with measuring marks. Plus, it has a built-in frothing wand for whipping up cappuccinos and lattes. The Mr. Coffee espresso machine comes with a stainless steel frothing jug and a measuring spoon. In addition, the gadget carries a one-year limited warranty.
Despite its low price tag, the espresso machine from Mr. Coffee has received positive feedback on Amazon, with shoppers awarding the appliance an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars. One reviewer praises the machine, commenting, "Been using this like crazy! Love it. Works seamlessly. I love lattes... but $5 a piece at Starbucks gets old. I haven't bought coffee out since this purchase." Nevertheless, it's important to note that buyers seem divided about whether the coffee maker is easy to use, with one Amazon customer saying that the "frothing takes practice" and another complaining that "the coffee holder does not go in easily and it is difficult to line up properly."
At the time of this writing, you can purchase the Mr. Coffee espresso machine from Amazon starting at $54.99.
Best two-way budget coffee maker
Designed to brew both single cups of Joe and 12-cup pots of coffee, the Hamilton Beach 2-way brewer coffee maker is perfect for all occasions. The gadget is also very easy to use — simply place your favorite coffee grounds in the mesh scoop, slide it into the machine, and brew. Unlike most other budget coffee makers, the Hamilton Beach 2-way brewer coffee maker can be programmed to start brewing at a specific time, letting you indulge in piping hot coffee as soon as you get out of bed in the morning. It also features a two-hour automatic shut-off function for complete peace of mind.
Rating the Hamilton Beach 2-way brewer coffee maker 64 out of 100, Tech Gear Lab praises the appliance for its affordability and features. According to the platform, the machine is simple to use, easy to clean, and produces "slightly above average" cups of coffee. Meanwhile, Roasty Coffee calls the appliance "the perfect addition to any coffee lover's kitchen," rating the gadget 4.3 out of 5. The Hamilton Beach 2-way brewer coffee maker has also received an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars from more than 40,000 Amazon reviewers, indicating that it's a worthwhile investment.
At the time of this writing, you can purchase the Hamilton Beach 2-way brewer coffee maker from Amazon starting at $69.99.
Best budget coffee maker for travel
Perfect for making single cups of coffee on the move, the Primula brew buddy portable pour-over coffee maker is compact enough to take with you on the road. At just under $7, it's also one of the most affordable coffee makers on the market. To brew a cup of Joe, simply place the rim of the disk-like device over a mug, fill the mesh filter with coffee grounds, and pour hot water over the contents. Best of all, the entire process shouldn't take much longer than 30 seconds. The Primula brew buddy portable pour-over coffee maker is dishwasher-safe.
Rating the Primula brew buddy portable pour-over coffee maker 75 out of 100, Outdoor Gear Lab highlights that the device is ideal for backpacking since it's small enough to be carried around in most bags. And while it's not suitable for large groups, as a personal brewing system, the coffee maker is simple to use, easy to clean, and, at just over one ounce, highly portable. Heroic Adventures echoes this sentiment, saying that the tiny gadget offers a convenient way of making individual cups of coffee on the go. This being said, the platform also points out that the device may not be the best option for fine grounds since it can let them through into the cup.
At the time of this writing, you can purchase the Primula brew buddy portable pour-over coffee maker from Amazon starting at $6.99.
Best large capacity budget coffee maker
Ideal for large gatherings, the Hamilton Beach coffee urn can make between 15 and 45 cups of coffee at a time, with each cup taking around one minute to brew. The large-capacity utensil also comes with an indicator light that tells you when the coffee is ready to enjoy and keeps your brew hot until it's served. It also features a two-option lever dispensing system — continuous filling and single cup. Last but not least, the urn comes with water level marks for easy filling and large carry handles.
Overall, Amazon shoppers give the Hamilton Beach coffee urn favorable reviews, rating it 4.6 out of 5 stars. Buyers appreciate the fact that the coffee maker is relatively fast and keeps brews hot all day. One reviewer praises the gadget, saying, "Coffee stays hot for hours and it's so easy to use and clean. Whatever leftover coffee that's in the pot the next morning gets placed in jars and put in the refrigerator for [use] as iced coffee." This being said, some customers complain of discolorations inside the urn and that the appliance seems to be designed for filling teacups rather than coffee mugs.
At the time of this writing, you can purchase the Hamilton Beach coffee urn from Amazon starting at $55.
Best Nespresso budget coffee maker
If you like the convenience of pod coffee makers but don't want to spend a fortune on a Nespresso machine, then the Mixpresso espresso machine is for you. Compatible with all coffee pods including Nespresso capsules, the drip coffee maker comes with a powerful 19-bar pressure pump. To make a cup of Joe, simply fill the tank with water, add an espresso capsule, and choose between short or lungo coffee style. And if you forget to switch the machine off after use, the coffee maker comes with a one-hour automatic shut-off function. Available in four colors, the compact appliance also features a detachable 27-ounce water reservoir and a removable drip tray for easy cleaning.
The Mixpresso espresso machine has received decent ratings from different platforms, including 7.9 out of 10 on Best Views Reviews and 4.1 out of 5 on Amazon. One happy Amazon shopper recommends the machine, saying, "[It's] small, and not too pricey. [The coffee] tastes the same as the fancy espresso machines, and I love how easy it is to use. Plug it in, fill it up with water, press the power button, and you're good to go." On the downside, some reviewers complain that the machine is on the noisy side and produces cups of coffee that aren't quite hot enough.
At the time of this writing, you can purchase the Mixpresso espresso machine from Amazon starting at $72.99.
Best budget coffee maker with a grinder
At almost $80, the Black+Decker 12-cup mill and brew coffee maker is the most expensive appliance on our list. However, the machine is still great value for the money when you consider the fact that it combines two gadgets in one — a coffee grinder and a coffee maker. In addition, the one-stop coffee machine features customizable brew strength and a 24-hour auto brew option as well as an automatic shut-off function. Meanwhile, the appliance's Sneak-a-Cup function lets you stop the brewing process for a quick cup of Joe on the go.
The Cup Coffee House is fond of the Black+Decker 12-cup mill and brew coffee maker, rating it 7.9 out of 10. The platform recommends the machine to those who appreciate ease of use and affordable cups of coffee made from freshly ground beans. On the downside, however, The Cup Coffee House also points out that the machine may leave your coffee with sediment. The Coffee Maven rates the Black+Decker mill and brew coffee maker 78 out of 100, praising it for its ease of use, design, and features. This being said, the platform also states that the machine produces underwhelming cups of coffee.
At the time of this writing, you can purchase the Black+Decker 12-cup mill and brew coffee maker from Amazon starting at $78.12.