For those of you who want a big espresso machine to make great coffee or espresso, this Breville BES900XL is going to be your best friend. Mind you this thing is huge and you will be amazed by the performance of this model. Not that I am sceptical but I have been testing this out over the past few months and I must say that this thing works fantabulously. If you want to go a step further than say for example the Breville 800ESXL espresso/grinder machine, read on…

If you want PID controls, a large machine, a dual boiler system and the Over Pressure Valve feature amongst many other things, you must get this.

Read on for the detailed review below..

Commercial features and performance, in a domestic foot print. Espresso perfection requires precision temperature and pressure control, consistently, every time. At the heart of this machine is its dual stainless steel boiler heating system with electronic PID temperature control. The brew boiler, for the espresso shot, is adjustable (190 - 205 degrees F) for different bean roasts and origins, while a separate steam boiler offers instant and powerful steam on demand. So you can extract your shot at the right temperature, delivering optimal flavor, while simultaneously steaming your milk to cafe quality with the 3-hole tipped, 360-degree swivel steam wand. What's more, there is a Heat Exchanger (HX) and another element in the group head, ensuring the entire system maintains a consistent temperature.

The Dual Boiler also features an Over Pressure Valve (OPV) which limits the 15 Bar Italian pump throughout the extraction, preventing bitter flavors in the shot. It also offers a true low pressure pre-infusion, which gradually increases the pressure to gently expand the grinds for an even extraction.

But there's much more to this machine for the coffee geek. A temperature display in either Fahrenheit or Celsius; a preset/manual-override/programmable shot volume; and programmable pre-infusion duration and pre-infusion power. At the same time we’ve kept it simple with user-friendly features. An optional Auto Start setting preheats the machine at a programmed time; a top-fill 84 fl. oz (2.5L) water tank ensures easy access; and the dedicated hot water outlet makes it faster to pre-heat cups or prepare an Americano. There is also a shot clock and pressure gauge to help you improve your barista skills over time. All you'll need are some freshly ground beans and a bit of practice to rival the best cafe.

The Nespresso Pixie is one of Nespresso’s newest and latest model of compact espresso machines. The company boasts fast heating time and fast brewing time. Once you have everything ready, all you need is a time of 25-30 seconds to see it brew you a cup of espresso. Apart from that, it is also a very small machine. If you think previous Nespresso machines are small, this one will definitely beat them all.

You should have a look at what customer thinks about the Nespresso Pixie.

Let us have a look in a bit more detail at what Nespresso says about this machine:

Nespresso Pixie Features

Fast

Well it is definitely fast, like I said it takes a max of 25 seconds to heat up thanks to its very quick and efficient thermoblock design. It is the fastest Nespresso in terms of heating times. Nespresso also mentioned that it brews a cup of espresso in record time. Most customers who have owned this machine do agree with its impressive brewing and heating time. So this is definitely a plus point.

Intuitive

Nespresso has taken the intiative to design a machine that is able to detect the water level via fibre optics. This is something which is unheard of on other espresso machines or at least until now. When water runs out, an infrared warning light will come on indicating that you need to top up the water levels.

Energy Efficient

Well electricity bill and all energy bills are going up. Nespresso has also gone green with this machine; making sure that it doesn’t suck out too much from your power by turning off within 9 minutes of not using. It is also consumes less energy than its siblings. So if you want a machine that makes darn good espresso without paying too much on your electricity bill, this machine is the best.

Compact in Size

This machine measures 11.1cm x 23.5cm x32.1cm (width x height x length). So if you can picture that, I say that is a very small espresso machine. So for those of you who don’t have too much kitchen counter space, this Pixie will definitely please you. But does it deliver in terms of espresso quality? We shall find out below

Does the Nespresso Pixie Make Great Espresso?

This is probably the most important question any customer will ask.

It certainly makes fantastic espresso rivalling even the Italian-made siblings. The espresso is a very rich tasting espresso. Depending on the pods you use, you can even get better tasting espresso.

Is there anything I should be Worried about?

Probably the only thing you should be concern of is the plastic housing. Don’t expect a really cool stainless steel look from the Pixie but it is cool enough to get your visitors or friends eyeballing it on your kitchen counter. There are also some customes who have experienced issues like leakage. Currently Nespresso is addressing the problem but almost all their Nespresso Pixie are working perfectly.

Finally

For an espresso machine like this, you certainly won’t be disappointed one bit. I will definitely give this Nespresso Pixie 5 stars for its features and for the quality of espresso from a small Nespresso like this.

Check it out Below!

Nespresso Pixie Espresso Maker, Electric Titan Average Rating: 129 total customer reviews...

Finally, a machine for those who love to do things hands-on but still relatively easy to use with practice The Breville 800ESXL espresso machine may be a bit too steep for some in terms of its price but it sure does deliver in the espresso or cappuccino department. There are a few things you need to know about this espresso machine:

• You need really good beans and fresh filtered water
• You will also need to find the right grind and then stick with it. If you have problems looking for a good coffee grinder, the Capresso Burr Grinder is a good option for you.
• You may not get the results you want from this espresso machine until a few attempts later ( like I said hands-on)
• There is a learning curve to be sure, but the end result is still fantastic!
• Works with pods!
• If you wanna be barista, this is not the machine to use.

What Features To Expect From This Machine?

Basically these are the features you will get from this Breville 800ESXL:

• A beautiful die cast stainless steel housing. You will love the shiny smooth surface. It will make you feel like a real pro having this machine at home. The die cast material makes this Breville very durable.
• Uses a Thermoblock heating system  to maintain steady temperature and also houses a Triple Prime Pump working at 15-bars of atmospheric pressure.
• Dual Wall Crema technology. Sounds fancy but basically this feature together with the Triple Prime Pump feature helps extract a more full-bodied flavour and texture for your cup of espresso.
• Large clearance for mugs and large cups. Finally, an espresso machine that actually fits larger cups and not just espresso size cups. Breville designed this feature not only to give you more room for your larger cups but also to make americano, latte and cappuccino as well.
• Huge Water tank. Apparently, this is enough to make 50 cups of espresso (imagine 75-oz removable water tank). Certainly will give you caffeine overload, so please share with your housemates, friends or family.
• A rather large cup warming tray. Breville is very generous with this.

You will get all this plus many other features in the box.

Are There Any Other Issues With This Espresso Machine?

Some issues you might get with this Breville is the non-dry puck unlike other machines, unless you want top quality Italian made Gaggia or Rancilio.

Filters and group head are not made of brass which makes it less efficient in conducting heat and making sure your water stays hot.So for those who wonder about the temperature not being hot enough, this is the issue causing it. 

As for filters getting clogged, just make sure you clean it after every shot you do to minimize clogging. This is because the filter basket is pressurized and it will get clogged pretty quickly even after a couple of uses. Some customers complain of this but this is not a machine that cleans itself, so expect to do some work on your own! You might not also get the best tamp from this model so get yourself one that works really well.

Finally…

Overall, this machine is not the best espresso machine with grinder, but you certainly get a good enough machine to satisfy your espresso/caffeine cravings for the day.

Check it out Below!!

Breville 800ESXL 15-Bar Triple-Priming Die-Cast Espresso Machine Average Rating: 187 total customer reviews...

The Nespresso D90/S1 Essenza is another one of those miniature-sized espresso machine that you always find from Nespresso. Again, this is one machine that certainly delivers more than you can imagine as you will discover about it later on in this review article.

nespresso essenza d90_s1

What Am I to Expect In Terms of Features?

• Compared to its other siblings, the Nespresso D90 Essenza does have a lot of power in its pump pressure. Even for a small little machine, it can deliver 19 bars of pressure! (which I think is more than enough…)
• This is another single-serve manual espresso machine much like most of its other siblings.
• As usual, Nespresso again incorporates a Thermoblock design to maintain a regular temperature for heating and espresso extraction.
• Just like other Nespresso machines, you can only use Nespresso coffee pods. It will not accept coffee grounds nor does it have a built-in grinder.
• Once your pods are used, it will be emptied in a capsule collection container.
• A generous water container enough to make you more espresso than you can imagine. (approx 34 oz in volume)

Is it Worth It?

The Nespresso D90 Essenza over delivers here. This espresso machine has all the ingredients necessary to make that perfect cup of espresso.

• Strong pumping mechanism – 19 bars of pressure
• Makes tasty beverage for about $0.60 per cup, very neat and easy to operate. Uses Nespresso pods though.
• There’s quite a variety of selection of coffee pods and its taste will not disappoint you.
• You’ll be surprised at the full bodied crema like you get from the best barista.
• The espresso produced is really crisp, smooth and hot (some might complain that it is not hot enough but this is very subjective)
• Brewing takes approximately 30 seconds despite taking up only a small area. If you know Nespresso espresso machines, you know the are all compact but they always do the job well.
• The machine is built very well and is high quality, not some cheap plastic assembly.

Features/Issues That May Concern You

You might think, well yeah it surely can’t be perfect. Well, in terms of its flaws, there aren’t many but there are pretty much standard issues as with most other Nespresso espresso machines.

• Temperature – In terms of the temperature of your brewed espresso, it is definitely not of the hot type. If you like really hot or hot espresso/coffee then most Nespresso machines are not for you. A good way around this is to heat up your cup on a cup warmer or in boiling water.
• Nespresso Capsules - I wouldn’t say that this is a problem unless you are a big fan of freshly grounded coffee. If you enjoy the latter, there is no way this Essenza D90 will accept coffee grounds, so look elsewhere. However, I would urge you to reconsider and just try accepting nespresso capsules for the moment. There are approximately 16 grand crus /16 nespresso capsules all with varying coffee intensity and aroma to choose from. I can be sure that there will be a specific one you will enjoy!

What Users Think About The Essenza D90

Sceptical about this machine? Well, the verdict has been very positive. Almost 90% of customers using it have been very satisfied and impressed with the espresso quality you get.

Here are what some of Nespresso’s customers think about it.

“I’ve expected less but instead the Essenza D90 performed better than expected! It produces espresso with great crema on top, the overall built of the machine is great and is of the highest quality I’ve seen in this size. The coffee might be a little lukewarm but give it a few weeks and it will produce a great cup of hot espresso.”

“If you love lattes, you need good espresso. This machine is really easy to use, trouble free and makes espresso quick. Really impressive to say the least. Best of all, I don’t have to worry about messes and cleaning up. To be honest, clean up is minimal. Finally, this machine is always ready for action.”

Finally

Well, the results speak for themselves. You definitely should check out what other customers think about this machine. Don’t just take my word for it.

Nespresso D90/S1 Essenza Single-Serve Manual Espresso Machine, Metal Average Rating: 31 total customer reviews...

Wanna consider something else?

Check out this even smaller Nespresso machine but delivers great espresso!

The Gaggia Platinum Vision Automatic espresso machine at first glance looks like one of the best automatic espresso machine with features built for the pros. But even if you are not a pro, Gaggia has made this machine so easy to use that you won’t even find a problem playing with the controls even for the lazy ones! Its large touch screen feature almost always diverts your attention away from other controls. It also comes with  Panarello frothing attachment. These are some of the cool features you will find in this espresso machine.

Features Worth Mentioning…

Here are some features which I feel are worth noting about this espresso machine.

#1 LCD Touch Screen 

Don’t expect colour LCD screen. Gaggia has made a large black and white touch screen that shows 3 sizes of espresso cups; small, medium and large. It is pretty self-explanatory but even if you don’t know what it means, you just need to press explain icons, and it will tell you what each icon means. The LCD screen also takes you to the programming option that allows you to see things like temperate, coffee dose, display, time and cleaning functions. Almost everything on this machine can be controlled with the touch screen features.

To brew a cup of espresso, all you got to do is:

• Press the desired size and it will brew that specific cup of espresso for you.
• If you want two cups of espresso, just tap on it twice.
• If you want it to stop brewing, just press stop.

It is really that easy to brew espresso on this machine. Truly it is the machine for anyone who does not want to work too hard operating an espresso machine.

#2 Espresso Plus System

There is another feature called the “Espresso Plus System”. This feature allows you to control the intensity and flavor of the espresso even while brewing. This feature is dial-controlled.

#3 Rapid Steam Boiler System

I am sure some of you are familiar with this feature. Basically, it reduces wait time between coffee and steam delivery to a few seconds. This means you can you cup of coffee whenever you want it at the shortest time possible.

Want to find out more about this espresso machine? Read below for the full review!

#4 Opti-Dose – What?

In simple terms, Opti-Dose is a feature that allows you to customize the amount of espresso per shot by adjusting through the LCD touch screen settings. I have used this before and you don’t have to worry if it is finicky in using. Even if you don’t know what you are doing, you just have to observe the colour of your espresso. If it is a dark brew, you’ll know you have a pretty strong shot of espresso.

#5 Panarello Frothing Wand

This Panarello frothing wand is a feature of most high end espresso machines. The Gaggia Platinum vision uses this and it makes it so much easier to froth and steam. Use the icons on the LCD screen to begin steaming. Frothing however is a more manual process. If you are unsure about frothing, I do suggest reading our article on frothing for better quality espresso.

#6 Ceramic Burr Grinder

The ceramic burr grinder that comes with this machine is designed to ensure frictionless grinding and even consistency after grinding. A built-in grinder is not only convenient but also allows you to enjoy fresh espresso every time.

There are other machines that have built-in grinders, check out this article here.

Check Out This Video – Professionals Giving an In-depth detail on this machine!

*****Check Out The Gaggia Platinum Vision In Detail!!*****

Features You Will LOVE

The Gaggia Platinum Vision is so full of features but we are not going to talk about everyone of them. Instead, we have decided to educate our readers on features that you will love about this machine in addition to the “cool features” that you have already read above.

• Maintenance - Did I mentioned that cleaning the Gaggia Platinum Vision would be a breeze? This machine already comes with a built-in Aqua Prima water filter which prevents impurities from entering into your espresso as well as prolong the duration for descaling. It also tests for water hardness and gives you a schedule on your next maintenance. So yeah, no manual work involved but you still have to clean it!
• Idiot Proof – Well, this machine is for everyone and I mean EVERYONE! Whether you are a newbie or a seasoned professional, this machine is very user-friendly.

Does it Make Good Espresso?

YES! It definitely won’t disappoint you one bit. The fact that it can accept ground beans and coffee grinds while controlling the coffee strength opens up different possibilities of coffee beverages you can get from the Gaggia Platinum Vision. You will definitely have very interested visitors who will beg to try the coffee from this machine.

Wait.. Are There Problems With It?

1. Milk Island. This espresso machine comes with a Milk Island unit which I think is not really good. Most users will agree with it. The main problem with the milk island is that it does not heat your milk enough. You might as well pre-heat the milk yourself before using it on your espresso. In fact, the Panarello wand is really effective already, so why bother using it. To me, the Milk Island is more of a gimmicky product than something that is worth adding to the entire package.
2. Drip tray. The drip tray that comes with the Gaggia Platinum Vision is relatively small for such a large machine. You might need to make frequent trips to prevent overflow.

What Gaggia’s Customers Think About This Machine

This machine has earned good reviews from most of its customers. Here are a few customers’ comments.

“This machine is really amazing! Comes with plenty of features but makes really good espresso /coffee. I am kind of picky with my coffee and I choose to roast it before I use on this machine. I have owned French Presses and Chemex but this Gaggia Platinum Vision easily replaces them all!”

“This machine’s touch screen works well. In fact, it is better than I expected as most other machines gives a bit when you push on them. Very quite and slick. Definitely recommend it!”

Finally…

This is a very good automatic espresso machine to own but it is expensive. Certainly, a machine that can replace almost all other domestic machines. Its plus point is its easy to use, automatic and easy to maintain.

Gaggia 90951 Platinum Vision Automatic Espresso Machine with Milk Island, Platinum Average Rating: 31 total customer reviews...

This Delonghi espresso machine is a 3-in-1 machine that offers what is required of an espresso machine. It also functions as a  drip coffee maker and it has a programmable function as well. But we haven’t heard too much about this Delonghi model don’t we? This article will review the Delonghi Cafe Nero and you will find out below if it is worth getting.

delonghi nero coffee and espresso maker

Tell Me More About Its Features

They say it is a three-in-one machine. So what is this three-in-one feature? Basically, this whole machine consists of a coffee maker and an espresso machine. It also froths milk. That is why it is called a 3-in-1. So let us have a look at the coffee maker functions first.

Coffee Maker function

• Separate controls and water tanks for making coffee and espresso. This design prevents delays and allow you to make both coffee and espresso at the same time.
• Flavor System – This brings out the rich aroma and taste of coffee.
• It also comes built-in with a permanent gold-tone filter prevents grounds from going into your coffee cup no matter how fine it is
• Programmable Coffee Maker function – You can tell the machine to brew coffee whenever it wants to with this function. The best time is to program it to make you a cup of coffee when you wake up from bed in the morning.

Espresso Making Function

• Uses both espresso grounds and espresso pods.
• Other obvious features that makes an espresso machine such as a milk frother, a single boiler system and a ground espresso filter.

So is it worth investing in this Espresso Machine?

There are mixed reviews on this product, some have claimed that it won’t last long while for some it works really well. Let us have a look at what some of the feedback about this machine has been like:

1. Basic Features

This is basically an espresso machine and coffee maker in its most basic features. You really cannot get excellent tasting espresso in this machine. The coffee making features is fine but don’t expect a really good premium taste from this Delonghi Nero.

2. Durability

It seems that the general feedback has been that the Delonghi Nero just won’t last long enough. Some customers have mentioned that the coffee maker just stops working after a while or the espresso maker won’t function properly. Either way, this is something that nobody wants to experience given the fact that they have spent a few hundred dollars on it.

3. Quality Of Espresso

If you want great tasting espresso i.e one that will make you crave for more every single day, this espresso machine will certainly not deliver the best. Its rudimentary features just won’t cut it at all. I have tried tasting espresso from this machine and I must say that it is not too bad but certainly not the best you would expect from a company like Delonghi. I think Delonghi did not get it right this time.

Finally

I would advise getting a pure espresso machine instead of a combined one as an a more specialized machine (more specific for either espresso or coffee making) usually does the job better.

A fantastic option would be the Delonghi EC702 espresso machine. You should definitely check out our review of the Delonghi EC702 here.

Delonghi BCO264B Cafe Nero Combo Coffee and Espresso Maker Average Rating: 62 total customer reviews...

Gaggia is well known for their quality built espresso machines and this Gaggia Baby Class model is no exception. Housed in a stainless steel case and build with elegance in mind, Gaggia has not forgotten that the inside workings of an espresso machine is what matters most.

gaggia baby class espresso machine

But why is it call the Baby Class?

Sure it looks small but that is not the reason. In fact, the Gaggia Baby Class is the world’s first home espresso machine. It was first made in 1977 and obviously, it has gone through several revisions in terms of its design to this day.

Gaggia Baby Class Features – The Pros

This Baby Class is feature packed with some very good features that will thrill you, so let us explore what are they…

Two features make this espresso machine stand out amongst its peers:

1. Commercial grade portafilter
2. Commercial brew group

The portafilter is a 1 pound, 58mm portafilter that is made of chrome plated brass while the brew group is also made of the same materials. Together, both the commercial ade portafilter and brew group ensures temperature stability and consistent taste with all your espresso shots. So yes, you will definitely not be disappointed with the espresso coming out from this machine!

Easy To Use

If you see this in real life, you will realize that it only has 2 buttons to do everything from brewing and steaming. Two indicator lights will tell you what you are doing. But rest assured, there aren’t too many things you need to do to make this Gaggia Baby class work properly. You probably also need to ensure that you’ve got enough water in the water reservoir and make sure that the portafilter is attached before brewing espresso.

Fantastic Turbo Frother

This is another great feature that will surely excite you. You won’t get a panarello attachment here but this feature makes it really easy to froth milk. If you want to steam, all you need to do is press the bottom button in the front panel of this espresso machine.

Three Way Solenoid Valve

Now this is something you don’t see in other espresso machines. This three-way solenoid valve ensures that you won’t get a wet espresso puck once you are done pulling shots. Some machines produce a really wet puck which can be messy and annoyiny to clean up.

Compatible to Both ESE pods and Coffee Grounds

This Gaggia Baby Class alss comes with an ESE pod filter basket. So if you have any ESE pods you are thinking of using, this machine is definitely compatible for that. Obviously, coffee grounds work well with it unless you are thinking of getting coffee beans, you will need to consider getting a coffee grinder.

Find Out What The Professionals Say About This Espresso Machine!

***Check Out The Gaggia Baby Class In More Detail!***

I could go on all day about the features of the Gaggia Baby Class. What really makes this model stand out is its greaat creme producing capability compared with other brands of similar price. For this price, the parts are great in quality and it is really easy to operate. Some say that you really don’t need a manual to figure out how to use this but since this is a manual espresso machine, I suggest you do some reading through on the manual.

Gaggia Baby Class: The Cons – Well… Not Exactly

The Gaggia Baby Class is really as good as it gets. If there are problems with the Baby Class, it is usually from the user themselves. I’ll explain to you on the first point.

1. Learning Curve

This is a manual espresso machine!! So, obviously you need to learn how to use it well before getting that desired crema and smooth tasting espresso from it. If you are wondering why others are enjoying their espresso so well from this, it is because they are either pros who use it everyday or they just got more practice than you did. So, start flexing your muscles and hone your barista skills!

2. Get A Good Burr Grinder

If you are using grounded coffee, you will need to ensure that it is properly grounded. Its consistency has to be even. If you want a good burr grinder, I suggest you look here. Otherwise, you will not get the nice looking golden red/brown crema.

3. Small Drip Tray

I believe this is just a minor issue. Not many complain of this problem. This Gaggia Baby Class isn’t that big anyway, so you can’t expect a huge drip tray. Oh and btw, if your drip tray is full, there is a red indicator that will tell you to drain it.

Finally

For a price of just under $500, this model is one of the best out there within this price range. For some it might be a tad bit expensive but think of the savings you make in the long term versus buying an espresso/cappuccino/coffee from your local cafe.

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Recommended Accessories for the Gaggia Baby Class Espresso Machine

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The Cuisinart EM-200 espresso machine is a programmable pump-drive espresso machine that makes brewing coffee, espresso or latte easier for you. On the outside, the housing has a modern feel to it and looks good as it is made of stainless steel. But I think more importantly we should look into the features of the Cusinart EM-200 and see if it is worthwhile getting.

cuisinart em-200 espresso machine

What Are The Features?

Basically, this espresso machine is a 15-bar pump driven model that is one of the easiest Cuisinart models to use. I wouldn’t go on about all the features you will find in this espresso machine but I will highlight some good ones that makes it quite unique to this model.

Programmable Features From Its Control Panel

What I really like about this espresso machine is that fact that almost all its functions are programmable. If you have total phobia about steaming milk, frothing milk, preparing espresso etc you probably should put this espresso machine on your list of good programmable machines. Basically everything can be controlled from the front panel that has 6 different buttons. It is intuitive enough for you to figure out the functions of each button. Everything from brewing, power, steaming can be controlled with all the buttons there. Whenever it is brewing or steaming, the lights will flash indication a specific process is going on. As for the programmable functions, you can use it to adjust the volume of your espresso easily. Unfortunately, the Cusinart EM-200 does not allow you to program it to brew at a specific time. These features here also ensure that you will have consistent espresso quality every time you turn it on.

ESE Pods and Ground Coffee Beans Compatible

If you hate the process of making espresso from ground beans, you can use ESE pods much like the Gaggia Baby Class. Some people just don’t like the messy process getting ground beans/grinding coffee beans, tamping and all the manual processes involved in making espresso. If you fall into this category, this feature will also be more pleasing to you. Using ESE Pods also ensure that you are getting consistent espresso quality without worrying about trial and error to get the perfect recipe together.

Auto Power Down

It is obvious. This feature saves you power and saves you on electricity bills. Definitely a plus in my opinion as they take up quite a lot of power.

Features That You Might Frown Upon

Frothing Problems

One of the most common complaints about this espresso machine is the milk frother itself. The milk frother is one component that will take you a while to master. Even if you’ve managed to master it, you will encounter problems like the frother not being strong enough to create that perfect froth. The only way around this is to settle for a less welled froth espresso or consider another espresso machine that makes far better froth. I wouldn’t say that the quality is so bad but I would comment that it still needs some work.

Noisy

I don’t know how much noise you can tolerate but after using several espresso machines myself, I’ve found that the Cuisinart EM-200 is pretty noisy.

What About Espresso Quality?

This is the part where I will say that it really depends. This machine gives you the option of using ESE pods or ground beans. If you choose to make espresso with the latter then expect some differences in quality unless you are a real master at making espresso manually already. If you are using ESE pods, then the quality will be the same all the time. So if you still need to hone your skills, use ESE pods to make up for your shortcomings.

Professional Review: Take a look at this video

***Check Out The Full Model Specs Here!!***

Finally

Well, I don’t think this machine fairs badly in terms of its functions and features. You should expect good quality espresso almost all the time. The frothing is a bit of a pain but at this price, expect some features to disappoint just a little bit unless you have the cash to spend more.

Cuisinart EM-200 Programmable 15-Bar Espresso Maker, Stainless Steel Average Rating: 188 total customer reviews...

This Saeco espresso machine is a rather elegant looking machine with a very contemporary feel to it. This is an automatic espresso machine the ability to brew coffee from scratch. Everything from grinding, brewing and frothing can be done in this machine without figuring out too hard about how each part works. One of its features include a built-in ceramic grinder system. There are a few other features worth mentioning about here.

saeco odea giro espresso machine

Ceramic Burr Grinder

There are conical burr grinders and then there are other types of grinders like the ceramic burr grinder. Ceramic burr grinders are the best types of grinder simply because it is really really hard and it is the best material to use for multi-grinding. In addition to that, you get consistent grindness with your coffee grounds and durability. To top it off, this ceramic burr grinder generates much less noise than its conicall burr grinder siblings.

Easy To Use

Everything that you do on this espresso machine can be done by playing around with the dial settings and control to make espresso. The dial settings is found in many Saeco espresso machines in the market. Dosage and strength of your coffee can be easil controlled via this control panel. You will come across a feature known as Opti-Dose which will be explained a little later below. You can even monitor if the drip tray, dump tray or water reservoir is full. The machine will also indicate when it needs descaling.

Easy-to-use Controls

The Giro features a simple control panel with intuitive alert lights to make brewing, frothing, and cleaning easy. The dial and strength settings are easy to adjust for anything from a single espresso to a full cup of coffee. The brew button is the main button in the center, and it has an icon of a coffee cup. Below it you’ll find the button for the Opti-dose system, marked by 3 coffee bean icons to adjust your coffee strength from mild, medium or strong. The silver knob around these 2 center buttons lets you control the volume of your coffee. To the right of the knob is the hot water button, and to the left of the knob are the alert lights to keep you updated when the machine is warming up, when to empty the dump box and drip tray, fill the bean hopper or water reservoir, or when it’s time to descale.

Pannarello Steam Wand

The Pannarello steam wand can be found in a handful of high end espresso machines like the Gaggia Baby Class. Here in the Saeco Odea Giro, you will also find this Pannarello steam wand designed to give you ease of control in frothing and steaming milk.

Does It Make Good Espresso?

Yes certainly! It definitely makes great tasting espresso. The thing that you will really like is the consistency in between espresso you make. That is why having an automatic machine makes it so much easier to have control over the process of making coffee/espresso. Everything from the aroma to the milk quality is awesome. Those who own this machine will tell you that this is one of the best investments they have made.

One tip here is to use Lavazza and Illy beans. Try to avoid using oily beans as well.

So what about customer reviews?

There are some rather favourable reviews for the Saeco Odea Giro espresso machine. Below is one of them:

“I actually have been using this machine for about four years now and I have to say that this machine makes excellent coffee and I have never had a problem with it. The one thing you need to about it is to regularly clean and descale it. My coffee is always wonderful with that delicious foam on top. In fact, I don’t have to buy coffee on my way to work in the morning!”

“The Odea Giro does a much better job of creating crema. This is the machine you should get if you want one that is simple to use and one that makes great tasting espresso.”

Want to find out more about this product? Then view below for more information!

Saeco S-OG-SG Odea Giro Super-Automatic Espresso Machine Average Rating: 21 total customer reviews...

This fully automatic espresso machine is one of those entry level models by Jura Capresso and that is the Jura Capresso C5. It is a really stylish looking model which is one of my reasons for making this my favourite automatic machine. Some of their espresso machines can be quite pricey but this is one where you should consider due to its fully automated features. Now please don’t confuse between a super automatic and a fully automatic espresso machine.

jura capresso C5 automatic espresso machine

Basically, this model is a very versatile espresso machine. It is also rather compact for what it can do. This Impressa C5 features a very unique illuminated rotary dial to select the kind of coffee you want. You can choose not only espresso but also, cappuccino, latte and cafe mocha latte. You can also choose between one or two cups as well with the dial. Wait there’s a whole lot more you can make with this besides those I’ve spelled out. The features are also rather unique.

Features of the Jura Capresso Impressa C5

It comes with:

• A water filtration system known as Clearyl Water Filtration which eliminates the need for decalcification
• It also comes with Dual Frother PLUS, a feature that allows easy milk frothing in your pitcher.
• A separate coffee funnel that can be used for different varieties of pre-ground coffee.
• A commercial quality steel burr grinder to help with grinding your coffee at 6 different fineness settings.
• Self cleaning, self descaling and self-rinsing features.
• IPBAS which is short for Intelligent Pre-Brew Aroma System that helps bring out the best flavour from your coffee, complete with thick crema on top.

Ease Of Use – Well, you’ve heard me say this a lot. But I love using espresso machines that don’t take me too much time to figure out its inner workings. Although I do enjoy manual work, when it comes to using an automated machine, I want it to to do as much things for me as possible without me lifting a finger. This machine does everything from grinding, tamping, brewing and even cleaning easily in a breeze. Remember, the rotary dial is the main thing you need to use to brew espresso. Compared to the Saeco Odea Giro and Cuisinart EM-200, I much prefer using the controls here. The one thing you must know here is that there is no automated frothing.

Features I Think Could Be Improved On

The only thing that can be improved is to increase the range of serving sizes. Most of the serving sizes you find here are pre-programmed. You can expect serving sizes ranging from once ounce ristretto to larger cups of almost 8 oz. This might not be a major issue but that is just about the only think I could think of for now.

One Thing That You May Frown Upon

If you can’t think of it, let me say this. This machine is expensive. The original price is about $1260!! WOW, who would wanna spend so much on an espresso machine unless they have deep pockets or have too much money to spare. You can get discounts of up to 23% here.

Check out this video review done by professionals

***You can Find Out More About The Jura Impresso C5 here***

Overall Customer Reviews and Impression

Jura-Capresso has made a great job making the Impressa C5 easy to use. Some customers have reported the relatively ease of use

“Easy to use and brews a great cup of coffee. Espresso is even better. I mistakenly thought I needed a fine grind for my bold coffee, which produced a fairly mild cup, but after reading the instructions I changed the grinder to less fine and the end result is fantastic.

“This is a really good looking espresso machine that is easy to use, makes great espresso and it is Swiss designed!!“

Check out more on what other customers are saying with the “More Information” button!

Jura 13531 Impressa C5 Fully Automatic Coffee Center, Piano Black Average Rating: 30 total customer reviews...