Imagine this: It’s a chilly morning, and you’re craving a warm cup of coffee. You shuffle to the kitchen, but your old coffee maker has seen better days. Or maybe you’re just starting your coffee journey and don’t want to spend a fortune. Finding a good coffee maker doesn’t have to break the bank, but with so many choices out there, it can feel like a treasure hunt!
Choosing a coffee maker under $50 can be tricky. You want something that makes delicious coffee, is easy to use, and lasts a while. But how do you know which one is the best? You might worry about getting a cheap machine that makes weak coffee or breaks after just a few uses. It’s easy to get overwhelmed by all the different brands and features.
But don’t worry! This guide is here to help. We’ll walk you through the best coffee makers you can find without spending more than $50. You’ll learn what to look for, discover some top picks, and feel confident in your choice. Get ready to brew your perfect cup without emptying your wallet!
Our Top 5 Coffee Maker Under $50 Recommendations at a Glance
| Image | Product | Rating | Links |
|---|---|---|---|
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BLACK+DECKER 12-Cup Digital Coffee Maker | 9.5/10 | Check Price |
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BLACK+DECKER 12-Cup Coffee Maker with Easy On/Off Switch | 8.6/10 | Check Price |
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BELLA 12 Cup Programmable Coffee Marker | 9.3/10 | Check Price |
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Mueller 12-Cup Drip Coffee Maker – Borosilicate Carafe | 9.4/10 | Check Price |
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Amazon Basics Coffee Makers | 9.1/10 | Check Price |
Top 5 Coffee Maker Under $50 Detailed Reviews
1. BLACK+DECKER 12-Cup Digital Coffee Maker
Rating: 8.8/10
Start your day right with the BLACK+DECKER 12-Cup Digital Coffee Maker. This coffee maker brews up to 12 cups of delicious coffee. It’s easy to use and has helpful features for any coffee lover.
What We Like:
- The 12-cup Duralife glass carafe is strong and has clear markings. You can easily see how much coffee you’re making. The handle is comfy for pouring.
- The Sneak-A-Cup feature lets you grab a cup of coffee before the whole pot is done brewing. This stops messy drips.
- The easy-view water window shows you exactly how much water is in the machine.
- Digital controls with rubberized buttons feel good to touch. The screen shows the time and brewing settings.
- QuickTouch Programming lets you set the auto brew feature for up to 24 hours. Wake up to fresh coffee! The 2-hour auto shutoff gives you peace of mind.
- The keep-hot plate keeps your coffee warm.
What Could Be Improved:
- The washable basket filter is great, but some users might prefer a permanent filter.
- While the auto shutoff is a safety feature, some might wish for a longer keep-hot time.
This BLACK+DECKER coffee maker offers great convenience and control. It’s a solid choice for enjoying your favorite coffee at home.
2. BLACK+DECKER 12-Cup Coffee Maker with Easy On/Off Switch
Rating: 8.7/10
Meet the BLACK+DECKER 12-Cup Coffee Maker, your new best friend for a perfect cup of coffee every morning. This sleek black machine makes brewing simple with its easy on/off switch and a carafe designed for easy pouring. It’s built to deliver rich flavor thanks to its special Vortex Technology and a carafe plate that keeps your coffee warm.
What We Like:
- Vortex Technology ensures every coffee ground gets wet, making your coffee taste amazing and full of flavor.
- The Sneak-A-Cup feature lets you grab a quick cup before the whole pot is done, without making a mess.
- No more drips or spills! The No-Drip Perfect Pour Spout makes pouring easy and clean.
- Cleaning up is a breeze because the Removable Filter Basket is dishwasher safe and works with regular paper filters.
- The Keep Hot Carafe Plate keeps your coffee at the perfect temperature so you can enjoy it hot for longer.
- The easy-to-use On/Off switch makes starting your brew super simple.
What Could Be Improved:
- You need to put the carafe back on the plate within 30 seconds when using Sneak-A-Cup, or it might overflow.
- The user guide mentions more brewing techniques, but they aren’t immediately obvious on the machine itself.
This coffee maker offers great features for a delicious and hassle-free coffee experience. It’s a solid choice for anyone who loves a good, hot cup of coffee.
3. BELLA 12 Cup Programmable Coffee Marker
Rating: 9.4/10
The BELLA 12 Cup Programmable Coffee Maker is a game-changer for anyone who loves a hot cup of coffee without the morning rush. This machine makes brewing your favorite coffee simple and convenient, even for those groggy mornings. Plus, it’s designed with busy people in mind, fitting right into your daily routine.
What We Like:
- Wake up to fresh coffee: You can set it up to 24 hours in advance. Your coffee will be ready when you wake up!
- Carefree auto shutoff: The maker turns itself off after 2 hours. This is a great safety feature.
- Clear, simple display: The screen is easy to read. You can program your brew or check the time without any fuss.
- Pour mid-brew with ease: The “pause and serve” feature lets you grab a cup while it’s still brewing. No drips, no waiting!
- Sustainable and simple: It comes with a reusable filter. This saves you money and helps the environment.
What Could Be Improved:
- The “Oatmilk” feature in the title seems a bit out of place as it’s not a specific function of the coffee maker itself, but rather a suggestion for a type of coffee to brew.
- While dishwasher-safe accessories are convenient, the main unit will still need manual cleaning.
This BELLA coffee maker simplifies your mornings. It offers smart features that make getting your caffeine fix a breeze.
4. Mueller 12-Cup Drip Coffee Maker – Borosilicate Carafe
Rating: 9.4/10
The Mueller 12-Cup Drip Coffee Maker is a fantastic addition to any kitchen, designed to make your mornings smoother and your coffee breaks more enjoyable. Its generous capacity and thoughtful features ensure you always have a hot, delicious cup ready when you need it.
What We Like:
- Generous Capacity & Durable Design: Brew up to 12 cups of coffee at once with the large 60oz borosilicate glass carafe. This glass is tough, won’t hold onto smells, and keeps your coffee hot longer. The easy-grip handle and anti-drip spout make pouring simple and mess-free. Plus, the carafe is dishwasher safe for easy cleanup.
- Reusable Eco-Filter: Save money and reduce waste with the included permanent filter. It’s easy to clean and helps bring out the best flavor in your coffee. If you prefer, you can still use filter paper.
- Improved Keep Warm Safety: The keep-warm function keeps your coffee at the perfect temperature. After brewing, the warming plate stays on for 2 hours before automatically shutting off, ensuring your last cup is as good as the first.
- Thoughtful Features: The non-drip carafe and non-slip feet add extra safety and stability to your brewing experience. The clear water level window lets you easily see how much water you’re adding.
- Superior Quality With Mueller: Mueller is committed to providing high-quality products that simplify your life. They offer great customer support if you ever need assistance.
What Could Be Improved:
- Not Compatible with Smart Devices: This coffee maker does not connect with smart home devices, which might be a downside for tech-savvy users.
This Mueller coffee maker offers a great balance of capacity, convenience, and durability. It’s a reliable choice for anyone who loves a good cup of coffee without the fuss.
5. Amazon Basics Coffee Makers
Rating: 9.5/10
The Amazon Basics 12-Cup Coffee Maker is a straightforward and dependable choice for anyone who loves a good cup of coffee. Its sleek black and stainless steel design looks great on any kitchen counter. This machine is made for busy mornings and quiet afternoons, brewing up to 12 cups of delicious coffee with ease. It’s a practical addition to any home, apartment, or office, providing a generous amount of coffee without taking up too much space.
What We Like:
- The 12-cup capacity is perfect for families or small gatherings.
- Its compact design fits nicely in smaller kitchens.
- Operation is super simple with just an ON/OFF switch and a clear indicator light.
- The warming plate keeps your coffee hot without burning it.
- Safety is built-in with overheat protection that stops brewing if the water is low or it gets too hot.
- The reusable filter basket is easy to remove and clean, which saves money and helps the environment.
What Could Be Improved:
- While simple, some users might prefer more advanced brewing options like strength control.
- The carafe material, while functional, is typically glass, which can be fragile.
This coffee maker is a solid performer for its price. It delivers hot, fresh coffee reliably and with minimal fuss.
Your Guide to Awesome Coffee Under $50
Finding a great coffee maker without breaking the bank is totally possible! You don’t need to spend a lot of money to enjoy a delicious cup of coffee every morning. This guide will help you pick the perfect coffee maker that fits your budget and your taste.
Key Features to Look For
When you’re shopping for a coffee maker under $50, keep an eye out for these important things.
Brewing Capacity
- How much coffee do you need at once? Some makers brew a single cup. Others make a whole pot. Think about if you usually drink coffee alone or with family.
Brewing Speed
- Do you need coffee fast? Some machines brew quickly. Others take a bit longer.
Ease of Use
- Can you figure it out easily? Look for simple buttons and clear instructions. Cleaning should also be easy.
Programmable Features
- Some coffee makers let you set them to brew at a certain time. This is handy if you want coffee ready when you wake up.
Carafe Type
- Most coffee makers have a glass carafe. Some have thermal carafes. Thermal carafes keep coffee hot longer without a warming plate.
Important Materials
The parts of your coffee maker matter for how long it lasts and how well it works.
Plastic Parts
- Many coffee makers use plastic. Look for BPA-free plastic. This means it’s safe for your food and drinks.
Glass vs. Thermal Carafe
- Glass carafes are common. They are easy to clean. Thermal carafes are usually made of stainless steel. They keep coffee hot for hours.
Filter Type
- Some makers use paper filters. Others have reusable mesh filters. Reusable filters save money and create less waste.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
A few things can make your coffee maker better or not so good.
Warming Plate
- A warming plate keeps your coffee hot after it’s brewed. But, it can sometimes burn the coffee if left on too long.
Water Reservoir Access
- Is it easy to fill the water tank? Some tanks are hard to reach. This makes brewing a bit annoying.
Drip Stop Feature
- This feature stops coffee from dripping when you remove the carafe. It keeps your counter clean.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about how you’ll use your coffee maker every day.
For the Busy Bee
- If you’re always in a rush, a programmable coffee maker or a single-serve brewer is a great choice. You can set it the night before or brew a cup in minutes.
For the Coffee Lover
- If you enjoy the taste of coffee, look for makers with features that help extract more flavor. A good filter and the right brewing temperature are important.
For Small Spaces
- Compact coffee makers are perfect for small kitchens or dorm rooms. They don’t take up much counter space.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Let’s answer some common questions about coffee makers under $50.
Q: What are the main Key Features to look for?
A: The main Key Features are brewing capacity, brewing speed, ease of use, programmable features, and carafe type.
Q: Are coffee makers under $50 good quality?
A: Yes, many coffee makers under $50 are good quality. They offer great value for the price. Look for brands with good reviews.
Q: What is the best type of carafe for a coffee maker?
A: A thermal carafe keeps coffee hot longer without making it taste burnt. Glass carafes are also good and easy to clean.
Q: Should I get a coffee maker with a warming plate?
A: A warming plate can keep coffee hot. However, it can sometimes make the coffee taste a bit bitter if it stays on for too long. Some people prefer thermal carafes instead.
Q: What does “BPA-free” mean for plastic parts?
A: “BPA-free” means the plastic does not contain BPA. This is a chemical that some people want to avoid in their food and drink containers.
Q: How important is the filter type?
A: The filter type can affect the taste of your coffee. Paper filters can give a cleaner taste. Reusable mesh filters are eco-friendly and save money.
Q: Can I make iced coffee with these machines?
A: Most standard drip coffee makers are not designed for making iced coffee directly. You would typically brew hot coffee and then chill it or brew it over ice.
Q: How do I clean a coffee maker under $50?
A: Cleaning is usually simple. You can often wash the carafe and filter basket with soap and water. Some parts might be dishwasher safe. Regularly descaling your machine with vinegar or a descaling solution is also recommended.
Q: Are single-serve coffee makers a good option under $50?
A: Yes, many single-serve coffee makers are available for under $50. They are great for making one cup at a time quickly.
Q: Where can I find good coffee makers under $50?
A: You can find great deals at big box stores, online retailers like Amazon, and even some department stores. Always check customer reviews before buying.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.