Let’s be real, good coffee shouldn’t cost a fortune. If you’re on the hunt for a reliable machine that won’t break the bank, you’ve come to the right place. I’ve spent a lot of time testing and researching machines that deliver a solid cup without the fancy price tag. The good news is that the market is full of excellent options under $50 that can handle your morning routine with ease. Whether you’re a student, just starting out, or simply want a no-fuss backup brewer, there’s a perfect model waiting for you.
Forget the idea that you need to spend hundreds for quality. The key is knowing what features matter most to you. Do you need a quick single cup or a full carafe for the family? Are programmable features a must, or is simplicity king? This guide cuts through the noise to highlight the top performers. We’ll look at everything from classic drip machines to single-serve pod-compatible brewers, all proving that you can find a quality coffee maker on a budget. The goal is simple: help you find the best coffee makers under $50 that fit your life and your wallet.
Top Picks for the Best Coffee Makers Under $50
- Mueller Ultra Compact Single Serve Coffee Maker
- Mr. Coffee 12-Cup Programmable Coffee Maker
- Hamilton Beach 2-Way FlexBrew Single Serve Coffee Maker
- Black & Decker CM1160B 12-Cup Programmable Coffee Maker
Mueller Ultra Compact Single Serve Coffee Maker
Short on counter space? The Mueller Ultra Compact is your new best friend. This single-serve machine is incredibly small, but it packs a punch. It’s designed to be used with ground coffee via the included permanent filter, or you can use your own K-Cup pods (just remove the lid). I was impressed by how quickly it heats up and brews a cup—it’s ready to go in under a minute. The result is a hot, flavorful cup of coffee that’s perfect for one person. The drip tray is also removable, so you can fit a taller travel mug underneath, which is a thoughtful design touch.
What sets the Mueller apart from other compact models is its build quality. It feels sturdy and well-made, not cheap or flimsy. Cleaning is a breeze since there are so few parts. The only real limitation is its single-serve nature; it won’t brew a pot for a group. But for dorm rooms, small apartments, offices, or as a secondary machine for a quick afternoon pick-me-up, it’s absolutely ideal. If you want the convenience of a pod-style machine but prefer to use your own, more affordable ground coffee, this is one of the best values you’ll find.
Pros
- Extremely small footprint, perfect for tight spaces
- Fast heat-up and brew time for a quick cup
- Works with both ground coffee and most K-Cup pods
Cons
- Only makes one cup at a time
- No programmable timer for automatic brewing
Mr. Coffee 12-Cup Programmable Coffee Maker
This is the workhorse of the coffee world, and for good reason. The Mr. Coffee 12-Cup Programmable model is a staple in countless kitchens because it just works. It’s incredibly straightforward to use. You can set it the night before, and wake up to a freshly brewed pot, thanks to the 24-hour programmable timer and auto-shutoff that kicks in after two hours for peace of mind. The pause-and-serve feature is a small but fantastic touch, letting you grab a cup before the brewing cycle is finished without making a mess. I find the coffee it produces is consistently hot and tastes great, especially when you use the brew-strength selector to choose between regular and bold.
What really makes this machine a champion in the under-$50 category is its reliability and value. It doesn’t have a lot of bells and whistles, but it nails the fundamentals. The glass carafe is sturdy, and the machine itself has a small footprint, so it doesn’t take up your entire counter. Cleaning is simple, and the removable filter basket makes it easy to dispose of grounds. If you’re looking for a basic, dependable drip coffee maker for a household or office that consistently delivers a good pot of coffee, this Mr. Coffee model is very hard to beat. It’s a classic for a reason.
Pros
- Simple and reliable programming for automatic morning coffee
- Pause-and-serve feature allows for a quick mid-brew cup
- Compact design fits well on most countertops
Cons
- Glass carafe can break if dropped
- Brewing a full 12 cups can take several minutes
Hamilton Beach 2-Way FlexBrew Single Serve Coffee Maker
If your household can’t agree on a single type of coffee, the Hamilton Beach FlexBrew is your problem-solver. This clever machine gives you two brewing options in one unit. You can use the single-serve side to make a cup with a K-Cup pod or your own ground coffee using the included reusable filter. At the same time, the other side is a full 12-cup drip coffee maker. This flexibility is its biggest strength. I love that I can make a quick cup for myself without wasting a whole pot, but still have the capacity to brew for guests when needed. It’s the ultimate compromise machine.
Using it is simple. The single-serve side brews directly into your mug, and you can choose your cup size. The drip side works like a standard coffee maker but with a handy feature: you can brew a smaller batch (like 1-4 cups) directly into a travel mug placed on the warming plate, which is great for solo drinkers. The programming is basic but effective, allowing you to set a brew time for the drip side. While it’s a bit wider than a standard machine, the space it saves by combining two appliances is a major win. For versatility under $50, the FlexBrew is a top contender.
Pros
- Extremely versatile with both single-serve and full-pot options
- Saves counter space by replacing two machines
- Brews directly into a travel mug for convenience
Cons
- Wider footprint than a standard drip machine
- Brewing a full pot takes longer than some dedicated models
Black & Decker CM1160B 12-Cup Programmable Coffee Maker
For those who prioritize a strong, robust cup of coffee, the Black & Decker CM1160B is a fantastic choice. This machine features a dedicated “Strength Control” setting that really makes a difference. When you select the strong brew option, it slows down the brewing process, allowing the water to spend more time with the coffee grounds, which results in a richer and more full-bodied flavor. I’ve found this feature works remarkably well compared to other budget machines that just claim to offer a bold setting. It’s perfect for dark roast lovers.
Beyond the strength control, this coffee maker has all the essentials you’d want. It’s programmable, has a 2-hour auto-shutoff, and a pause-and-serve function. The display is clear and easy to read, and the controls are intuitive. The stainless steel finish gives it a slightly more premium look than its price would suggest. The thermal carafe is also a nice bonus at this price point, though some models feature a glass one. If your main concern is getting a powerful, flavorful cup of coffee every morning without spending a lot, this Black & Decker model is definitely worth a close look.
Pros
- Effective strength control for a genuinely stronger brew
- Sleek design that looks more expensive than it is
- Simple and user-friendly programmable controls
Cons
- Some users report it can be a bit noisy during brewing
- The water reservoir can be slightly awkward to fill
Best Coffee Makers Under $50: Quality Coffee On A Budget
Finding a good coffee maker without spending a fortune can feel like a challenge. I have been there, staring at shelves of expensive machines, wondering if a decent morning brew requires a major investment. The good news is that it absolutely does not. The market is full of reliable, well-designed coffee makers that cost less than fifty dollars. You just need to know what to look for.
First, think about how you drink coffee. If you need a quick, single cup before running out the door, a single-serve pod machine might be your best bet. Models that use reusable pods are especially cost-effective and better for the environment. If you have a household of coffee drinkers or you like having a full carafe to sip from all morning, a classic drip coffee maker is the way to go. Many under-$50 options brew a full 12 cups and include programmable features so your coffee is ready when you wake up.
Don’t overlook manual methods. A French press is a fantastic, low-cost tool that makes a rich, full-bodied cup of coffee. It requires no electricity and is simple to use—just add coarsely ground coffee and hot water, wait, and press. Similarly, a pour-over cone, like a Melitta or Hario, gives you incredible control over the brewing process for a clean, bright cup. These are often the cheapest options of all, sometimes under $20.
When you are shopping, pay attention to the material of the carafe or pot. A thermal carafe is a great feature to find in this price range because it keeps coffee hot for hours without burning it on a hot plate. If the machine has a glass carafe, see if it has an auto-shutoff feature for safety. Also, check how easy the machine is to clean. Removable, dishwasher-safe parts are a huge plus.
Ultimately, getting quality coffee on a budget is about matching the brewer to your routine. You do not need fancy bells and whistles to make a great cup. With a little research, you can find a machine that fits your life and your wallet perfectly.
FAQ
Can I really get a good coffee maker for under $50?
Yes, absolutely. While you might not find all the high-end features of a $200 machine, there are many excellent coffee makers in this price range. Brands like Mr. Coffee, Hamilton Beach, and Black+Decker have reliable models that brew a consistent and tasty cup of coffee. The key is to focus on your basic needs: brew strength, carafe size, and simplicity.
What is the most economical type of coffee maker to use daily?
In the long run, a standard drip coffee maker or a manual brewer like a French press is usually the most economical. While single-serve pod machines are affordable to buy, the cost of the pods adds up quickly. With a drip machine or French press, you can buy coffee grounds in bulk, which is much cheaper per cup. A bag of ground coffee costs about the same as a box of 10-12 pods but makes many more cups.
Are there any coffee makers under $50 with a built-in grinder?
This is a tough one. A built-in grinder is a feature typically found on more expensive machines. It is very unlikely to find a new coffee maker with a genuine burr grinder for under $50. However, your money is better spent on a separate, affordable blade grinder and a simple coffee maker. This gives you the benefit of freshly ground beans without the complexity and cost of a combined unit.
How important is a programmable timer?
A programmable timer is a great convenience, especially if you have a busy morning routine. Being able to set your coffee the night before and wake up to a freshly brewed pot is a nice luxury. Many budget-friendly drip coffee makers include this feature. If you do not mind waiting a few minutes in the morning, a non-programmable machine will work just fine and might save you a few extra dollars.
What should I do if my cheap coffee maker breaks quickly?
It is frustrating when any appliance breaks. First, check the warranty. Many budget models come with a one-year limited warranty. Contact the manufacturer to see if you can get a repair or replacement. To make your next coffee maker last longer, be sure to follow the cleaning instructions carefully. Regular descaling (removing mineral buildup) with vinegar or a descaling solution is essential for the life of any coffee maker, regardless of price.