9 Best Pod Coffee Makers Under $100; Reviews

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The best pod coffee maker under $100 is the one that offers you the convenience and speed of making just one cup of coffee at a time, without breaking the bank.

An affordable pod coffee maker is the quickest way to get your morning going. Switch on the machine, add fresh water, pop in a pod, and press start. In a minute or two, you have a piping hot cup of joe.

With tons of single-serve pod coffee makers for under 100 dollars on the market, the chances are high that you’ll make the wrong investment.

But have no fear!

We’ve surveyed the marketplace to track down the top budget pod coffee maker models. Here are our 9 unbeatable picks for someone looking for a capsule coffee maker without many bells and whistles.

Best Pod Coffee Makers Under $100

Comparison Table

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Best Pod Coffee Makers Under $100 - reviews

1. Keurig K-Mini Plus Coffee Maker

Specifications:
  • Brew Sizes: Any size 6-12 oz
  • Water Reservoir: 12 oz
  • Temp Control: No
  • Strength Control: Yes
  • Other Features: Removable water reservoir, removable drip tray, pod-storage compartment

The Keurig K Mini Plus’s 5-inch design makes it perfect for studio apartments, tiny dorm rooms, and small officers.

Its simplistic design means it doesn’t have many bells and whistles, but also makes it dependable and low-maintenance. 

For those looking for a travel mug-friendly pod coffee maker for under $100, the Keurig K-Mini plus is worth looking into. The K-Mini Plus is tall and slender and can easily accommodate a 12-ounce travel mug. 

You can expect to have a full mug within just five minutes. This is a quick-setup, fast-acting machine that shaves valuable time off your morning routine. 

The K Mini Plus accommodates cup sizes from 6 to 12 ounces. 

It includes a removable 12 oz. water reservoir for easy refilling. It has built-in storage to hold up to nine k-cups. 

The machine has a strong brew button for a stronger flavor. 

The Keurig K-Mini Plus coffee machine is among the best capsule coffee machines for coffee lovers who do not need or want to learn ins and outs of coffee brewing. 

The machine is simple, quick, and easy. Since the machine uses K-Cups, the coffee is already perfectly ground and measured for the ideal cup of joe. The steps are as simple as inserting the cup and hitting the “go” button. 

The K Mini Plus has an average lifespan of five years when used once daily. And with regular maintenance and cleaning, you can ensure it functions well over that time frame. 

Pros:
  • Extremely easy to use
  • Fits almost anywhere thanks to its compact design
  • Low-maintenance & reliable
  • Auto-off
  • Brews any size between 6oz and 12oz
  • Comes with a discreet cord storage
Cons:
  • Making large batches is time-consuming
  • No brew timer
  • K-cups only
  • Limited programmability

2. Chefman InstaCoffee Max

Specifications:
  • Brew Sizes: Any size 6-14 oz
  • Water Reservoir: 12 oz
  • Drip Tray Included: Yes
  • Functionalities: Brew Complete Indicator
  • Product Warranty: Yes
  • Coffee Type Used: Ground Coffee, K-Cups, Loose Tea

Chefman InstaCoffee Single Serve Coffee Maker brews in 30 Seconds and it is compatible with K-Cup Pods, coffee grounds & loose-leaf tea.

The narrow profile fits and stores anywhere and can be used to brew coffee on vacations or trips, in dorms, in any size kitchen, or even at your office desk. 

The one-touch operation quickly brews up to 14 oz. of coffee, consistently at the perfect temperature.

This personal pod coffee maker costs less than 100 dollars and it is designed to fit most 14 oz. travel mugs – great for frequent travelers and morning commuters.

The InstaCoffee Max is equipped with a self-cleaning mode, making it easy to prevent and remove mineral build-up. The rubber drip tray is removable for easy cleaning between uses.

The Chefman InstaCoffee Max doesn’t come with all the bells and whistles of some of the larger and more advanced coffee makers, but that’s okay. This machine is meant to be small and compact and to be used for single cups/travel mugs of hot coffee. 

Chefman InstaCoffee Max makes coffee brewing simple. With this coffee maker, it’s all about enjoying coffee, as opposed to indulging in the coffee brewing process. You do not need any advanced skills or knowledge in order to brew a neat cup of coffee.

Pros:
  • Powerful and compact coffee maker
  • One-touch operation allows to quickly brew up to 14 oz. of coffee
  • Self-cleaning feature blocks the mineral build-up
Cons:
  • Not suitable for making large batches of coffee

3. Keurig K-Select Coffee Maker

Specifications:
  • Brew Sizes: 6 oz, 8 oz, 10 oz, 12 oz
  • Water Reservoir: 52 oz
  • Temp Control: No
  • Strength Control: Yes
  • Other Features: Auto-On/Off, Quiet Brew Technology, removable drip tray

The K-Select is the best combination of cost and feature-rich performance among affordable pod coffee brewers, making it our pick for the best bang-for-your-buck K-pod brewer.

First of all, you have 4 different cup sizes to choose from (6, 8, 10, or 12 oz) and⁠—it almost goes without saying⁠—hundreds of compatible K-Cups.

The K-Select is very practical and easy to use: you just need to insert the K-Cup, choose a size and you’ll get your cup of joe in less than one minute. 

You can program it to switch off automatically thanks to the Auto-Off feature which will save you a lot of energy and money.

Plus, this coffee maker uses Quiet Brew Technology, making it much quieter than most pod coffee brewers in the 100 dollars price range.

It also has a removable drip tray and K-Cup holder. As for the descaling process, you’ll get a handy reminder through a flashing light.

The Keurig K-Select has a pretty large 52 ounces water reservoir. It’s also compatible with Keurig’s water filters.

This pod coffee maker is great for travel mugs too, which can be placed directly under the spout thanks to the removable drip tray.

If you like strong cups of coffee, the K-Select is a great choice for you. It features a strength control button, which lets you toggle between ordinary-strength coffee and a more robust cup.

The machine also comes with a 6-count K-Cup package, a water filter, and a filter handle. So you won’t need to pay extra for these tools, at least for the first few batches.

Pros:
  • One-button operation is very simple to use
  • Pod design is convenient
  • Four selectable cup sizes
  • Removable 52-ounce water reservoir
  • Strength control option
Cons:
  • Limited to using K-Cups
  • Has a plastic finish
  • It can take a few minutes to warm up properly
  • Somewhat noisy

4. CHULUX Single Serve Coffee Maker

Specifications:
  • 12 Once Single Sever Coffee Maker
  • One-Touch Operation
  • Compatible with Coffee Pods & Reusable Filter
  • 3 Minutes Fast Brewing
  • Auto Shut Off
  • Compact Design-Save Space

This single-serve pod coffee maker for under $100 lashes up fresh and piping hot coffee any time you need and the biggest plus is that you get the same great taste every time.

You can use the appliance to create your favorite coffee, hot chocolate, cider, or tea whenever you want it and have it ready within minutes.

It has a compact structure which makes it highly portable. It can be stored with ease or taken with you when you want to go camping outdoors. It can easily fit into a small apartment, dorm room, or kitchen shelf.

Not only is the machine strategically designed, but it also comes in an assortment of beautiful colors for you to choose from. 

The product is equipped with a water reservoir with a capacity of 12 oz. which eliminates the need for refilling the tank from time to time.

The Chulux is both fast and efficient–the quick boiling system can heat 5 ounces or 12 ounces of water in 1 or 2 minutes, respectively.

It takes all K-cup coffee capsules. In use, you simply unlock its capsule holder and place the K-cup coffee capsule in the holder and press the button. 

It is also possible to purchase some reusable filters to put your own ground coffee in as well as all Keurig K cup pods.

One of the best features though is the automatic shut-off. It turns the Chulux coffee maker off after the brewing cycle is complete.

Although compact and portable in size, the coffee maker flaunts a robust build that is durable and long-lasting. 

As for the coffee itself, it’s rich and flavorful with a great aroma. Overall, the standard of coffee made is as good as any other K-cups coffee machine we’ve tested. 

Pros:
  • Compact and portable
  • Easy to use
  • Robust construction and built
  • Lightweight
  • Made of BPA-free material
  • Accommodates a range of cup sizes
Cons:
  • Small water reservoir
  • Takes 2-3 minutes to brew

5. Hamilton Beach FlexBrew Single-Serve Coffee Maker

Specifications:
  • Brew coffee with single-serve pods or ground coffee
  • Grounds basket and pod holder included
  • Brew up to 10 oz. with a single-serve pod or 14 oz. with ground coffee
  • Easy-fill reservoir 
  • Functionalities: Automatic shutoff, Brew pause

With the versatile Hamilton Beach FlexBrew Single-Serve Coffee Maker, you can brew both single-serve pods and ground coffee in one simple, easy-to-use machine. 

It brews the perfect cup of coffee one cup at a time, giving you the best of both worlds. 

You can even choose the type of cup you want to use. Use regular cups or tall travel mugs. 

You can brew up to 10 oz. with a single-serve pod or 14 oz. with ground coffee. Plus, you can even customize the coffee to your taste with bold and regular brewing options. 

The water reservoir is easy to fill and the easy-view water window lets you check the water level from the front and side. 

There’s even a convenient storage area inside the cup rest for the single-serve pod holder or the brew basket to reduce countertop clutter. 

With classic red color, chromed handle, and stainless backsplash, this small coffee maker complements many kitchen decors.

Pros:
  • Pod piercing needle for easy cleaning to prevent clogging
  • Saves energy by heating the water only when you’re ready to brew
  • Automatically shuts off when brewing is complete.
Cons:
  • Noisy

6. Keurig K-Express Coffee Maker

Specifications:
  • Brew Sizes: 8 oz, 10 oz, 12 oz
  • Water Reservoir: 42 oz removable
  • Temp Control: No
  • Strength Control: Yes
  • Other Features: Auto-Off, High Altitude setting

The K-Express targets entry-level buyers, so it’s among the most affordable Keurig coffee machines. Because of this, the build quality is not as high-end as premium Keurig machines. 

However, the exterior of the machine has a sleek finish, giving this modern coffee maker a pleasingly contemporary appeal. 

The machine has a relatively small removable drip tray. When you remove the drip tray, there is a clearance of 7.25-inch beneath the spout, which makes it a great travel mug friendly pod coffee maker for less than 100 dollars.

On the right edge of the coffee maker is a row of buttons with indicator lights. Each button has a number (8, 10, or 12fl oz), which indicates the cup size to brew. Press the button for whichever size you like, and the machine will get to work. 

Despite its small size, the Keurig K-Express does not compromise on taste, and you will still have access to the entire selection of K-Cup choices. 

Its 42-ounce reservoir is made possible without making it too bulky like other Keurig machines.

Brewing up a delicious cup of coffee is a breeze with the K-Express. I mean, it’s called an express for a reason. All you really need to do is ensure the water reservoir is sufficiently full and position your cup under the dispenser. 

The rest is easy and is just a matter of choosing your preferred K-Cup, brew size, and brew strength and letting the machine fill up that delicious cup of coffee.

You can also select the ‘strong’ brew button to make a bolder, more intense cup of coffee.

Pros:
  • Brews coffee extremely fast
  • Easy operation
  • Making tea is a breeze
  • Long-term care isn’t too much of a chore
  • 42 oz removable water reservoir
  • Strong brew feature
  • 1-Year limited warranty
Cons:
  • More waste from using K-Cups
  • More splashing than you’d expect

7. Mixpresso - Single-Serve K-Cup Coffee Maker

Specifications:
  • Settings for 6 oz., 8 oz., and 10 oz. cup sizes
  • Removable drip tray
  • 45 fl. oz. water capacity
  • Illuminated control panel
  • Automatic shut off
  • Instant brew patented heater
  • 1-year manufacturer’s warranty

Mixpresso’s single-cup brewer is a good choice for consumers who want the convenience of a K-cup but don’t like the limitations of Keurig’s newer machines.

Mixpresso accepts unlicensed cups as well as conventional K-cups in both 1.0 and 2.0 versions. It also has refillable filters, allowing you to brew your own coffee.

However, this isn’t a unit with a lot of flexibility. The drip tray can be removed to fit mugs up to 6.5 inches, and you can make 6, 8, or 10 oz drinks.

It’s a little device with a 45-ounce reservoir. As a result, it’s ideal for compact counters or your workplace at work.

This pod coffee maker costs under $100 and it brews coffee swiftly for individuals who are in a rush. Preheating takes 30 seconds, and brewing takes 30 seconds. If you just want hot water for tea, you can use it without the pod.

One of its cool features is its energy efficiency. It won’t cost you a lot and you will still enjoy quality coffee.

It’s also easy to clean and comes with a height-adjustable drip tray and a removable reservoir.

Pros:
  • Energy efficient
  • Fast brewing time
  • Compatible with numerous coffee pods
  • Convenient orange water level indicator
  • Auto-Off after 15 minutes
Cons:
  • Only works with mugs up to 6.5″ tall
  • Noisier than most pod coffee makers

8. Mueller Ultimate Single Serve Coffee Maker

Specifications:
  • Compatible with Single Cup Pods & Reusable Filter
  • 10oz Water Tank
  • Quick Brewing
  • One-Touch Operation
  • Compact Size

The Mueller coffee maker is a compact machine that fits perfectly in small spaces. It produces quality brewed coffee and is super easy to use.

This pod coffee maker is designed to fit on every kitchen countertop, apartment, hotel, office, or dorm room. 

With a 10oz water tank and 3-minute brew cycle, make your delicious coffee in no time in standard-sized or large size coffee mugs.

All single-coffee coffee pods are compatible with this machine. Additionally, it is cleverly engineered to function with both 1.2 and 2.0 capsules, letting you make your favorite brew at home.

The Mueller coffee maker is a compact, travel-friendly coffee maker that is ideal for long trips. It boasts a robust structure that adds to its longevity, as well as a sleek appearance that goes well with any countertop.

The coffee machine is made of BPA-free plastic, so it is only roughly only 4 pounds. 

The Mueller coffee maker comes with an auto shut-off feature, which turns off the unit on its own after the completion of one brewing cycle.

This single-serve K cup pod coffee maker is fast and it brews the coffee at an average pace of three minutes.

To use this affordable pod coffee maker, all you need to do is open the top of the coffee machine, insert your preferred coffee pod, add water, place the mug on the dispenser tray, close the lid, and press the power button. Wait for three minutes, and you will have a delicious cup of joe ready for you.

Pros:
  • Auto shut-off prevents the unit from overheating
  • Removable drip tray for easy cleaning
  • Compact design makes it easy to store
  • Works with all single-serve coffee pods
Cons:
  • Small water reservoir at only 10 ounces 
  • Can not fit travel mugs

9. Instant Pot Solo 2-in-1 Coffee Maker

Specifications:
  • Brew sizes: 12, 8, 10oz.
  • Coffee filter type: Capsule
  • Coffee type used: Coffee pods & Ground coffee
  • Travel mug friendly
  • Water reservoir: 40oz.
  • Pre infuse brewing

Brewing a great cup of coffee at home is easy with the Solo Single-Serve 2-in-1 Coffee Maker. It can handle both K-Cup pods and your own grounds in the included reusable pod with a handle.

This single-brew machine has two separate openings to fit both K-Cups and Nespresso’s original capsule.

Choose from multiple brew sizes with 8, 10 or 12 oz cups, and adjust the brewing strength to make it as bold as you like. 

This coffee maker is simple to operate, automatically selecting the optimum brew temperature and pressure, and easy to maintain with a large 40-ounce water reservoir and low-water and cleaning indicators. 

This is one of the best pod coffee makers for travel mugs for under 100 dollars as its removable drip tray lets you fill up to a 7″ tall 16oz travel mug.

It features a pre-infuse cycle that gently soaks grounds in a K-Cup or the reusable pod before brewing to produce a more flavorful cup of coffee.

Its brew time also sits at a trim 90 seconds so you’ll never have to wait more than two minutes for your morning cup of java.

It even has an adjustable brew strength feature so you can make a bolder cup of coffee.

Pros:
  • Pre infuse cycle
  • Large 40oz. Water reservoir
  • Compatible with pods and ground coffee as well
  • Reusable coffee pod included
  • Travel mug friendly
  • Quick brewing
Cons:
  • Doesn’t make large batches of coffee

What to Look for in a Pod Coffee Maker Under $100

All of the coffee makers you see on the list are different, that much is true but they do meet certain requirements. One of the most important features we considered during selection was compatibility. You can pretty much use any K-cup pods or your own coffee in a reusable pod with the machines you see listed.

Here are some other features that you should look for in a $100 pod coffee maker.

1. Pod Variety

K-Cup, Nespresso capsule, E.S.E. pod. These are the basic coffee pod varieties, and the brewer you buy will likely only be compatible with one of them. If you’re partial to a certain type of pod, whether it be for taste, price, or convenience, this is a great place to start narrowing down your buying options.

2. Ease of Use & Maintenance

If you’re looking for a pod coffee maker, it’s reasonable to say that brewing a cup of coffee fast and conveniently is a top priority, whether you’re using pods, K-Cups, or capsules.

Coffee from capsules is quite simple to make and consume. You don’t need much more than a capsule-based coffee machine to have a great cup of coffee.

As a result, it’s critical to consider consumer reviews regarding ease of use and reliability while buying this type of brewer in particular. As a result, only the highest-rated pod coffee machines are included in this article.

Don’t forget to see how easy or difficult the pod coffee machine will be to maintain. Your life will be made easier if you have a brewer with an automated cleaning cycle.

3. Brew Time

Another minor feature to consider is the brew cycle or brew time. Most K-cup and pod-style machines have faster brew times, especially when compared to traditional coffee makers. 

You’re only brewing a single-serving though, so it makes sense why. The real question is whether or not the machine has enough time to genuinely heat the coffee

4. Machine Size

You don’t want to buy your pod coffee maker to realize that it’s not going to fit your kitchen countertop, as they often take up a lot of space, 

So the amount of counter space you have may decide which machine is ideal for you. While there are exceptions, smaller machines are often less expensive but have fewer functions and beverage options.

5. Single-use coffee pods vs. Reusable filters

Most single-serve coffee machines rely on store-bought coffee pods, such as Keurig’s popular K-Cup pods. K-Cups and capsules are convenient to use, but they’re more expensive than making your own coffee from scratch. 

A popular alternative is soft pods: The ground coffee is packaged in a circular paper filter that looks like a teabag and eliminates the use of plastic. 

Single-serve units with a reusable filter to fill with your own ground coffee are available if you want a coffee maker without pods. 

Reusable filters are unquestionably the more environmentally friendly alternative, but they must be washed after each use.

6. Travel Mug Friendliness

If you’re someone who likes to enjoy your coffee on the go in a travel mug, then you must make sure that the pod coffee maker that you choose brews coffee in various sizes and especially in 12-16 oz. size, which is perfect for a travel mug.

Another thing that you should look into is the drip tray of your coffee maker Make sure that the drip tray is removable so that the pod coffee maker can easily accommodate a travel mug.

Conclusion 

So, this was a review of the best pod coffee makers under $100. We hope this article provided you with enough insights so that you can make an informed decision and choose a pod coffee maker that is not just affordable but checks all the boxes when it comes to convenience, ease of maintenance, coffee taste, and brew time.

We recommend selecting an option that’s compatible with ground coffee and not just a pod coffee model since coffee pods don’t always offer the same variety as other options, and they can be unnecessarily expensive.

Written by:
Emily Deneuve
Emily Deneuve

Emily discovered that a perfect cup of coffee is a culmination of wonderfully grown coffee beans and a high-quality coffee maker. She focuses on exploring coffee brewing tips and coffee makers.

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