Owning an espresso machine is some sort of a must for any budding coffee aficionado. But if you’re just starting to dig deeper into the world of coffee, you might be asking: “What is the best espresso machine under 100 dollars?” Truth be told, you don’t need to spend a fortune to have an equally operational espresso machine. Of course, you’d be missing some features here and there. But a perfectly good shot does not exactly lie on the espresso machine; it would also depend on the skill level and expertise of the barista.
Pulling A Shot
The concept behind an espresso shot is both simple and complicated. In the most basic sense, an espresso shot is just ground coffee run through hot water at high pressure. But the technical know-how behind actually doing it is what makes an espresso shot complex and all in all a sophisticated drink. Here’s how to do it:
- Preheat your machine, glass, and a portafilter. By doing so, you do not only help the engine warm up faster but also avoid getting your grounds and brew be in contact with a cold surface that would affect its quality.
- Prepare your freshly ground coffee beans. Generally, an espresso shot would use 7 to 21 grams of ground coffee, depending on the amount and strength of espresso you’re trying to pull.
- Fill your portafilter with the right dose and firmly tamp your grounds to form a puck. Keep in mind not to tamp too tight or too loose. An improperly tamped ground coffee would result in an under-extracted or over-extracted brew.
- Attach your portafilter to the espresso machine and start the actual brewing process. An espresso shot would only take some time between 20 to 30 seconds to pull.
- Take note of your pull’s crema. A perfectly good shot of espresso would have a thick layer of golden crema with reddish-brown streaks. Otherwise, you most likely under or over-extracted the shot.
Comparison Chart
| IMAGE | PRODUCT | DETAILS | PRICE |
|---|---|---|---|
| De Longhi EC155 15-Bar Pump Espresso and Cappuccino Maker | The De Longhi EC155 is the perfect entry-level espresso machine under 100 dollars for beginners and budding coffee enthusiasts. It offers quality brewing performance and a wide range of features for fast and convenient use. | ||
| Mr. Coffee Espresso and Cappuccino Maker | The Mr. Coffee Espresso and Cappuccino Maker is arguably one of the best and cheapest espresso machine that allows further brew customization, unlike fully automated models. It is not the easiest to operate but would be worth it once you completely understand how to navigate the machine’s settings. | ||
| Wacaco Nanopresso Portable Espresso Maker | The Wacaco Nanopresso Portable Espresso Maker is ideal for those coffee lovers who are always on the go. Its lightweight design and shorter length make it the perfect espresso maker slash travel companion for those who do not want to miss their favorite drink even when on the road. | ||
| SOWTECH Espresso Machine | The SOWTECH Espresso Machine is a basic entry-level model ideal for beginners and novice coffee makers who are looking for an easy and convenient coffee machine to use at home. The machine occupies minimal space and has a notably fast brew time. | ||
| Klarstein Passionata Rossa 15 Espresso Machine | The Klarstein Passionata Rossa 15 Espresso Machine has several features and customization settings and it can brew a perfectly good shot of espresso in a matter of minutes. Ideal for simple home use, this espresso machine is a straightforward machine dedicated to convenience and quality coffee. |
A Detailed Review on the 5 Best Espresso Machines Under 100 Dollars
De Longhi EC155 15-Bar Pump Espresso and Cappuccino Maker
The De Longhi EC155 is the perfect entry-level espresso machine under 100 dollars for beginners and budding coffee enthusiasts. It offers quality brewing performance and a wide range of features for fast and convenient use.
Value
The De Longhi EC155 Espresso and Cappuccino Maker offers powerful brewing capabilities to create a perfectly good shot of espresso or a delicious cup of cappuccino. It has a straightforward user interface and control settings making it fast and easy to use.
Functionality
The EC155 is packed with features dedicated to making your brewing experience smooth sailing until the last drop. It has a 15-bar pressure capability, a 35 oz. water tank, a built-in swivel frother, a self-priming feature, a descaling notification function, and an easy to navigate user interface. Its water reservoir and drip tray are also removable and dishwasher safe for a more comfortable cleaning job.
The Earl’s Overall Rating
De Longhi’s EC155 Espresso and Cappuccino maker is considerably the best model that you can find under 100 dollars. Aside from its efficiency and quality performance, the EC155 is highly automated, which makes brewing coffee a lot more convenient for busy users.
PROs
- 15-bar pressure capable
- Removable 35oz water reservoir
- Compact and space-saving built
CONs
- Only brews espresso or cappuccino
- Plastic build results in a cheap look and feel
- Low cup clearance
- Limited brew options
Mr. Coffee Espresso and Cappuccino Maker
The Mr. Coffee Espresso and Cappuccino Maker is arguably one of the best and cheapest espresso machines that allow further brew customization, unlike fully automated models. It is not the easiest to operate but would be worth it once you completely understand how to navigate the machine’s settings.
Value
It is ideal for any novice espresso maker, the Mr. Coffee Espresso and Cappuccino Makerprovides impressive results and convenience without taking too much from your wallet.
Functionality
Despite being a cheap entry-level espresso machine, offers quality performance with its amazing features such as its Dual espresso shot system, thermal block heating technology, and its 15-bar pressure pump capability.
The Earl’s Overall Rating
Considering its price, you wouldn’t expect many features and special functions from this model. But the Mr. Coffee Espresso and Cappuccino Maker has tons of helpful features to make your brewing experience easier.
PROs
- Dual espresso shot system
- Large 40oz removable water tank
- A 15-bar pressure pump system
- Built-in frothing arm
CONs
- Generates loud noise
- Cannot brew and steam milk simultaneously
Wacaco Nanopresso Portable Espresso Maker
The Wacaco Nanopresso Portable Espresso Maker is ideal for those coffee lovers who are always on the go. Its lightweight design and shorter length make it the perfect espresso maker slash travel companion for those who do not want to miss their favorite drink even when on the road.
Value
Looking for a portable espresso machine that makes excellent coffee without worrying about batteries and electrical outlets? The Wacaco Nanopresso is the one you are looking for. It is lightweight, portable, and easy to use. With only the help of your hands and a few shakes, you will have your espresso in a snap.
Functionality
This espresso machine is best for those who travel a lot but do not want to miss their regular dose of coffee. It delivers great quality espresso drinks with its newly patented system. It is capable of reaching 261PSI with only your hands and stable pressure to get that unparalleled coffee quality.
The Earl’s Overall Rating
Wacaco Nanopresso Portable Espresso Maker is one of the best espresso machines in the market. It is designed to give great quality coffee drinks to people who want to have their coffee everywhere they go.
PROs
- Manual operation; no battery or electricity needed
- Easy to operate
- Lightweight and compact design
- Easy to clean and maintain
- Perfect for traveling and camping
CONs
- Accessories are sold separately
- Holds 80ml of water
SOWTECH Espresso Machine
The SOWTECH Espresso Machine is a basic entry-level model ideal for beginners and novice coffee makers who are looking for an easy and convenient coffee machine to use at home. The machine occupies minimal space and has a notably fast brew time.
Value
As an entry-level espresso machine, this model by Sowtech provides quality coffee and adequate brewing capabilities. This makes it perfect for any coffee lover who simply enjoys a freshly brewed cup of coffee without the intention of stepping up their coffee game any time soon.
Functionality
The Sowtech model can’t do much than brewing coffee at a set time, pressure, and temperature. However, this system allows for more flavorful and consistent results every time. Plus, this model consists of detachable parts that are dishwasher safe and easy to clean.
The Earl’s Overall Rating
The SOWTECH Espresso Machine is a reliable model for average home use. It can brew good-tasting coffee and espresso with a press of a button in a matter of minutes.
PROs
- Features a built-in frothing arm
- User-friendly operating system
- Sleek and compact design
CONs
- Low-pressure pump system
- Emits burning smell when operated
Klarstein Passionata Rossa 15 Espresso Machine
The Klarstein Passionata Rossa 15 Espresso Machine has several features and customization settings and it can brew a perfectly good shot of espresso in a matter of minutes. Ideal for simple home use, this espresso machine is a straightforward machine dedicated to convenience and quality coffee.
Value
A steal for its price, the Klarstein Passionata Rossa 15 Espresso Machine is a reliable espresso machine ideal for any budding coffee lover who is on quite a tight budget. It has a stylish and elegant design that can fit any kitchen.
Functionality
This espresso machine managed to put in some amazing features such as an adjustable steaming nozzle for frothing milk, a removable water tank, and a stainless steel mesh drip tray. You will be able to make up to 6 cups of coffee with this espresso machine.
The Earl’s Overall Rating
The Klarstein Passionata Rossa 15 Espresso Machine is the perfect machine for beginners and coffee aficionados alike. With a 15-bar pump pressure and a 6-cup water tank capacity, you will surely enjoy making a fresh cup of coffee with this machine.
PROs
- Adjustable steam nozzle for frothing milk
- Make up to 6 cups of coffee
- Stainless steel mesh drip tray
- Elegant design
CONs
- Water tank may leak if not secured
- Durability issues with some machines
Parting Shots
Starting your journey as a coffee maker or barista doesn’t have to cost a fortune. That is why we provided you a list of the best espresso machines under 100 dollars. This way, you can start learning how to pull an espresso shot and brew different coffee drinks without having to spend as much. However, by the time you’d want to try and explore more in the coffee industry, you might want to upgrade to better and more sophisticated espresso machines that allow for more customization settings and better brew control. Learn more about espresso machines.