Whether you prefer a frothy latte in the morning or can't get through the day without a regular caffeine fix, you can find the best budget coffee machine for your kitchen that doesn’t break the bank. When mornings are a little hectic (when are they not, tbh), rest assured a coffee machine will take care of your favourite beverage, and save you some money in the long run too.
Factoring in cost, convenience and quality, we've found the best coffee machine deals to grace your kitchen countertops with delicious coffee on tap. It’s safe to say that coffee machines are brilliant, offering a bunch of drinks at your fingertips and for much less than you'd pay at your local café. And thankfully, just because you love a latte, doesn’t mean you have to fork out for an expensive appliance (or resort to instant).
Closer's best budget coffee machines, at a glance:
Best budget coffee machine
Best budget capsule coffee machine
Best budget filter coffee machine
Best budget coffee machine for iced coffee
Rounding up the best coffee machines on a budget is a no-brainer and we’ve selected the cheapest yet quality models, plus appliances that run with low-cost pods or affordable coffee grounds. Not to mention, some of these look pretty smart, making them a welcome permanent feature on your countertop. And, there’s even an iced coffee machine included for a cooling alternative, perfect for the summer.
Best budget coffee machine
Best budget coffee machine
![DeLonghi Nescafé Dolce Gusto Infinissima Pod Capsule Coffee Machine](https://images.bauerhosting.com/celebrity/sites/2/2024/07/DeLonghi-Nescafe-Dolce-Gusto-Infinissima-Pod-Capsule-Coffee-Machine.jpg?auto=format&w=1440&q=80)
Available in three different colours, the uniquely designed DeLonghi Nescafé Dolce Gusto Infinissima has been built for stylish, smaller kitchens. With automatic shut-off after five minutes and compatibility with budget-friendly supermarket Aldi's Alcafe Pods, it doesn't break the bank. Simply slide in your chosen pod and with one easy manoeuvre, this coffee machine is said to be easy to use and clean - with creamy coffee-shop-quality coffee in no time.
With an impressive 4.4/5 star rating, the Dolce Gusto Infinissima is praised for its value, appearance and ease of use. One customer called it a "tremendous bargain" - well, designed, easy to use and keep clean. Another says it looks great in their kitchen, and they are pleased with the quality and value. Customers mention that it makes two mugs without needing to refill. However, some complain about the noise level.
Pros
- Unique design, slim for smaller countertops
- High-quality coffees with a thick velvety crema
- Compatible with affordable Aldi capsules
Cons
- Said to be a little noisy!
Size | 37 x 15 x 28 cm |
Weight | 3.4 kg |
Descaling | Machine comes with descaling tools |
Compatibility | Nescafé Dolce Gusto Pods / Alcafé Pods |
Cost per cup | 28-35p (Branded) / 16p (Aldi) |
Cup size | You can adjust the stand; maximum cup height is 14.5cm |
Best budget capsule coffee machine
![Tassimo by Bosch Suny 'Special Edition' TAS3102GB Coffee Machine](https://images.bauerhosting.com/celebrity/sites/2/2024/07/bosch-tassimo-suny.jpg?auto=format&w=1440&q=80)
Sleek, compact and providing delicious results, the Tassimo by Bosch Suny 'Special Edition' fits well in any home. Easy to use, with a simple one-button operation, the Tassimo Suny reads your pod's unique barcode for the ideal drink every time - with no long heat-up. With coffee shop favourites available in pod form (from hot chocolate to a Costa latte), you can choose from over 50 drinks to enjoy at home. Plus, it auto-cleans between each drink to ensure no flavour mixing between cups - and an auto-shut off to save on energy.
With a 4.6/5 star rating, the Tassimo is well-rated for its quality, taste and pod selection. One customer says it makes excellent coffee and a large selection to ensure they never get bored with their morning cup. Not only that, but it's said by many to be quick to set up and efficient to use. And, that the cleaning is super simple and requires no hassle - with an automatic program. However, it's only compatible with Tassimo pods, which can range between 30 to 80p a cup. Grab a deal when you can.
Pros
- Sleek, stylish and compact for any kitchen counter
- Auto-cleans between drinks for no flavour mixing
- Designed by the reliable brand Bosch for peace of mind
Cons
- Only takes Tassimo pods
Size | 30.5 x 16.7 x 25.1cm |
Weight | 2.36kg |
Descaling | Tassimo Descaling Tablets |
Compatibility | Tassimo Pods only |
Cost per cup | 30-85p per cup |
Cup size | All sizes, it has an adjustable flexible cup stand |
Best budget filter coffee machine
![Salter EK2732 Personal Coffee Machine](https://images.bauerhosting.com/celebrity/sites/2/2024/07/salter-coffee-to-go.jpg?auto=format&w=1440&q=80)
Whether for work or the school run, a quick hit from the handy travel mug from this Salter EK2732 One Cup Digital Coffee Machine may remedy the morning blues. Featuring an LCD display, a reusable coffee filter, water level markings and a timer, this coffee machine is packed with features to make your mornings a little more bearable - producing a hot cup in just a few minutes. Whether coffee pads or ground coffee, this coffee appliance is easy to use and gives you no hassle. What are the reviews saying?
From over 2,400 customer reviews on Amazon, this Salter appliance has been given a respectable 4.3/5 average rating. Many customers agree that the quality and value of the coffee machine get top marks. They love how their coffee tastes - producing a decent brew and isn't a hassle to use, either. One customer commented that it's "quick and quiet" and another said they didn't want to spend too much and were happy with this fabulous, budget pick. That said, some complain about the inconsistent brewing amount.
Pros
- Boasting stylish, stainless steel accents for all kitchens
- Simple to operate and boasts an LCD for easy use
- Conveniently compatible with ground coffee and pads
Cons
- Inconsistent brewing amount
Size | 18.3 x 13.5 x 28.8cm |
Weight | 1.3 kg |
Descaling | See Salter guide for descaling |
Compatibility | Coffee pads and ground coffee |
Cost per cup | Various - better value than pods/capsules |
Cup size | Tall, will likely fit most mugs |
Best budget coffee machine for iced coffee
![Breville Iced Coffee Maker](https://images.bauerhosting.com/celebrity/sites/2/2024/07/breville-iced.jpg?auto=format&w=1440&q=80)
If the hot girl summer is getting to you, why not switch to iced coffee? You'll get that much-needed pick-me-up without overheating. Complete with a tumbler and coffee scoop, the Breville VCF155 Iced Coffee Maker is a reliable and easy-to-use appliance. Recreate your favourite coffee shop iced latte in just minutes. It expertly pours coffee over ice for a great taste. Experiment with sugar, syrups, milk and more for the ultimate iced coffee.
Tried and Tested by Closer writer, Piper Huxley: "All-in-all, this is a very simple and straightforward appliance. It comes with an easy-to-follow process that feels rather too good to be true… It’s safe to say that I feel like a barista when I’m heaping a scoop of ground coffee into the appliance for my morning fix.
"It doesn’t make anything else, but it offers the space for milk, sugars, and syrups to be added to your cup – just as you’d order it at your local coffee shop. Why not try frothing your milk or adding some whipped cream and chai latte powder to make some sort of dirty chai frappe hybrid?"
Pros
- Comes with a tumbler, straw and coffee scoop
- Straightforward cleaning process
- User-friendly three-step method for ease
- Allows room for innovative experimentation
Cons
- Makes only one variety of coffee
- Requires a decent amount of ice
Size | 32.9 x 15.6 x 21.3 cm |
Weight | 1.08kg |
Descaling | Commercial descaler |
Compatibility | Ground coffee |
Cost per cup | Will depend on the ground coffee! |
Cup size | Includes a lidded tumbler, which is tall |
Best budget bean-to-cup coffee machine
![Breville Barista Max Espresso Machine](https://images.bauerhosting.com/celebrity/sites/2/2024/07/BREVILLE-VCF126-Barista-Max-Coffee-Machine-Stainless-Steel.jpg?auto=format&w=1440&q=80)
Café-quality at home? Yes, please. If you can spare the extra pennies, this Breville Barista Max Espresso Bean to Cup will serve you well. By far the cheapest bean-to-cup we've seen so far, this Breville model brings espressos to die for, thanks to the high-tech system. With its easy-to-use controls and on-demand coffee grinder with 30 adjustable sizes, you can enjoy your favourite espresso, Americano, latte, flat white, and more with just three simple steps, fresh as ever. It's perfect for brewing multiple cups.
Customers love how easy this pick is to clean and how tasty the coffee is. From over 500 reviews globally, this bean-to-cup coffee maker is perfect if you're looking for a little glamour for your kitchen - with a respectable average 4.3/5 star rating. One customer commented though the setup is a little tricky, it does a good job and is easy to clean. Another calls it a "nice compact unit" and the keep-warm system comes in handy, too.
Pros
- Easy-to-use, intuitive espresso machine and integrated grinder
- Full-size, cool touch steam wand to make velvety milk for lattes
- Produces consistently great-tasting coffee for your morning cup
Cons
- Set-up is said to be tricky
Size | 34.7 x 32.2 x 40.7 cm |
Weight | 7.75 kg |
Descaling | Unspecified. |
Compatibility | Coffee beans |
Cost per cup | Depends on the bean - generally more expensive than grounds. |
Cup size | Espresso, Americano, Latte, Flat White sizes |
Best budget espresso coffee machine
![Salter Professional EK5240BO Espirista Coffee Machine](https://images.bauerhosting.com/celebrity/sites/2/2024/07/Salter-Professional-EK5240BO-Espirista-Coffee-Machine.jpg?auto=format&w=1440&q=80)
Awaken your inner barista with a budget-friendly espresso maker. The Salter EK5240BO Pro Espirista, Black can effortlessly brew multiple coffees in one go, thanks to the 15-bar pressure system - which extracts all that goodness from the ground coffee into a rich, authentic Italian espresso every time. Equipped with a milk frothing wand, the Espirista lets you steam milk to create luxurious, smooth foam for frothy flat whites and milky lattes. It's safe to say, this versatile machine caters to all your coffee needs. Complete with a sleek touch panel and indicator lights, you can craft your favourite barista-style coffee from the comfort of your home.
From over 400 reviews, the customer review average is a solid 4/5 stars, with customers appreciating the appearance, value and ease of use. It's said to be very elegant and looks great on their kitchen side. One customer says it's neat, compact and perfect for smaller spaces. However, some have reported that the machine is very noisy, so it may not be best for open-plan living.
Pros
- Effortlessly steam and froth milk for delicious cappuccinos
- Delivers the perfect pressure for the perfect, flavourful espresso
- Make a range of coffees for your everyday needs
Cons
- Some customers have reported that the machine is very noisy.
Size | 32.8 x 15.8 x 32 cm |
Weight | 4 kg |
Descaling | Unspecified. |
Compatibility | Ground coffee |
Cost per cup | Depends on the grounds you buy |
Cup size | Espresso/double espresso |
Closer's verdict: Which is the best?
We’ve picked the DeLonghi Nescafé Dolce Gusto Infinissima. Dolce Gusto pods are said to be cheap, as well as widely available. Plus, there's an enormous range of flavours to choose from. And, that’s not all. It takes the budget-friendly Alcafé Pods from Aldi, saving you a little money.
It's complete with superb reviews and a decent energy rating, plus Nescafé Dolce Gusto is a Podback member, which makes recycling your pods a doddle. On with the buyer's guide…
How do I choose the best coffee machine?
If you’re not sold on our selection, don’t worry. This guide will help you figure out which budget coffee machine is best for your home. As you can imagine, there are a lot of types of coffee machines out there – so, we’ve summed up the basics.
Your coffee preferences will determine which coffee machine to go for. Above, we have included different models, helping you craft iced coffee for a summer drink, frothy cappuccinos and mochas with coffee pods, filter coffees or espressos for a richer, intense brew.
Consider a budget and set it. You’re likely looking for something cheap, but, have you considered spending a little more than you’d hoped to, so you can cut down on energy bills and pods? That being said, there are plenty of quality machines that won’t break the bank.
Features are abundant when shopping for a high-tech coffee machine (e.g. coffee bean grinder and milk steamer). However, a budget option may not be as extravagant. If you want a no-frills, easy-to-use appliance, many of our picks are perfect for you.
Lacking in counter space? Some of our picks are super compact and will blend seamlessly into smaller kitchens, amongst the multi cookers and other handy appliances. Larger models may offer a few more features and a greater capacity. But, make sure you have space for them.
Ease of cleaning is something we like to look for. When the day gets a little hectic, the last thing you want to be doing is deep cleaning a coffee machine after use. Nobody likes an appliance that is a pain to clean. Some will come with dishwasher-safe parts or cleaning programmes.
How do I clean or descale a coffee machine?
Cleaning and descaling will likely differ from model to model, and type to type.
For most pod machines, manufacturers suggest running a cycle without a coffee pod and with a commercial descaler with the water instead. Whereas, others will have cleaning programs. And, a filter coffee machine is said to clean effectively using white vinegar, claims KitchenAid.
But, always read your instructions manual in case they say something different.
Piper Huxley is a Homes, Gardens and Wellness Product Writer for Closer, specialising in interior design and wellness. When she’s not writing about homeware trends or mindfulness, she’s at yoga or tending to her houseplants.