Finding a great coffee maker under $100 doesn’t have to feel like a compromise. Many of the most-loved brewing methods in the coffee world are naturally affordable, easy to use, and capable of delivering incredible flavour. Whether you want the convenience of a Keurig, the refreshing smoothness of cold brew, or the ritual of a pour-over, there’s a budget-friendly option for every coffee drinker.
In this article, we break down six popular coffee makers under $100—how they work, common opinions from everyday users, and detailed pros and cons to help you decide which one fits your lifestyle.
Keurig Coffee Maker
Keurig remains one of the most widely used coffee systems thanks to its push-button simplicity. Ideal for quick mornings, busy households, or workplaces, Keurig brewers deliver coffee in seconds using single-serve pods. While flavour purists may prefer more hands-on methods, many people appreciate Keurig’s speed and consistency.
Why People Like Keurig
People often choose Keurig because it removes the guesswork—no grinding, measuring, or cleaning filters. It also offers a wide selection of pod flavours and is perfect for households where everyone likes a different type of coffee.
Pros
- Extremely fast and convenient
- Wide variety of pod flavours and roasts
- Consistent results every time
- Minimal cleanup
Cons
- Pods can be more expensive than ground coffee
- Limited control over brew strength
- Flavour may not be as robust as manual brewing methods
Hario Mizudashi Cold Brew Maker
The Hario Mizudashi is one of the most popular cold brew makers on the market for good reason. It’s durable, well-designed, and creates smooth, chocolatey cold brew with very little effort. Perfect for summer months or coffee drinkers who prefer low-acid beverages, the Mizudashi is a budget-friendly favourite.
Why People Like the Mizudashi
Fans love that it makes café-quality cold brew without expensive equipment. It’s also easy to clean, fits well in the refrigerator, and makes a large batch you can enjoy for days.
Pros
- Produces smooth, low-acidity cold brew
- Simple setup and cleanup
- Durable glass design
- Great value for the price
Cons
- Only makes cold brew, not hot coffee
- Requires brewing 12–18 hours in advance
Ceramic Dripper Coffee Set
A ceramic dripper set is a classic pour-over tool used to highlight the clarity and nuance of coffee. The ceramic material helps maintain stable brewing temperatures, giving you more control and a clean, bright cup. Many coffee enthusiasts enjoy the ritual of pour-over brewing because it lets them control every variable from grind size to pouring pace.
Pros
- Excellent flavour clarity
- Affordable and durable
- Gives full control of the brewing process
- Doesn’t require electricity
Cons
- Requires technique and attention
- Not as fast as automated brewers
- Needs paper filters (most models)
Why people choose it: Coffee lovers who enjoy hands-on brewing and experimenting with variables love ceramic drippers for their simplicity and exceptional cup quality.
French Press
The French press is a classic brewing device that uses full immersion to create rich, bold coffee. Because the grounds steep directly in hot water, the result is heavier, oilier, and more robust compared to drip or pour-over methods.
Why People Like the French Press
Fans of the French press love the deep flavour and thick mouthfeel it offers. It’s also simple—no filters, no electricity, and very little that can break. For many, it’s the perfect combination of affordability and strong flavour.
Pros
- Rich, full-bodied flavour
- No paper filters required
- Easy to use and durable
- Great for brewing multiple cups at once
Cons
- Can produce sediment if not pressed carefully
- Requires more cleanup
- Not ideal for people who prefer lighter, cleaner coffee
Chemex Coffee Maker
Known for its iconic hourglass design, the Chemex is a pour-over brewer that uses thick paper filters to create exceptionally clean coffee. While many Chemex models cost more than $100, smaller versions often fall below that price point, making them accessible for budget-conscious coffee lovers.
Why People Like the Chemex
Coffee drinkers gravitate toward the Chemex for its crisp flavour profile and designer aesthetic. Many appreciate that it doubles as a serving carafe, while others like that its filters remove bitterness and sediment.
Pros
- Produces clean, bright, complex coffee
- Beautiful design that doubles as decor
- Large brewing capacity
- Ideal for specialty coffee lovers
Cons
- Requires Chemex-specific filters
- Glass can be fragile
- More technique required than basic pour-over sets
Stovetop Espresso Maker (Moka Pot)
For strong, espresso-like coffee without the cost of a full espresso machine, the stovetop espresso maker—or Moka pot—is an excellent option under $100. It uses steam pressure to brew concentrated coffee, which can be enjoyed on its own or used in lattes, cappuccinos, and americanos.
Why People Like the Moka Pot
People love the Moka pot for its bold flavour and ability to create café-style drinks at home. It’s durable, compact, and perfect for people who want something stronger than drip coffee without expensive equipment.
Pros
- Brews strong, espresso-like coffee
- Durable and long-lasting
- Affordable way to make specialty-style drinks
- Works on most stovetops
Cons
- Can take practice to avoid bitterness
- Not true espresso (no crema like a machine)
- Requires careful cleaning to maintain flavour
Which Coffee Maker Is Best for You?
Your ideal coffee maker depends on your lifestyle and taste preferences. If convenience is key, a Keurig may be your best match. If you love cold brew, the Hario Mizudashi is a reliable choice. For clean, flavourful cups, a ceramid dripper coffee set or Chemex is perfect. And if you prefer bold coffee or want something espresso-like, the French press or Moka pot delivers excellent value.
No matter your preference, all of these brewers offer exceptional performance under $100 and can elevate your daily coffee ritual without overspending.
