by Ken on October 10, 2011
I remember that there was always some internal struggle going on when I was a poor college student and an avid coffee lover. But when I got this DeLonghi EC155, I never thought that my college days could be any better!
DeLonghi EC155 Espresso Maker – Best Budget Espresso Machine
One Amazon reviewer said, “[This] espresso machine rocks if you consider how cheap it is.” I agree with her one hundred percent. This is the espresso machine to get if you want some good coffee without the luxury of going to Starbucks every morning.
Cheap Yet Pump Driven!
DeLonghi EC155 is pump-driven, much to my initial surprise, because cheaper espresso machines are usually steam driven. Only pump driven machines can draw out the true flavor of espresso!
I can’t say how much I owe to this machine for giving me strong shots every night I stayed up to study for exams. Even the rich aroma is enough to keep me awake!
This is a compact machine, measuring only 7.5 x 9.5 x 11.13 inches, just nice for my small apartment in those days. Just note that you have to use small shot glasses for it.
Luckily I didn’t use the frother much at that time, because it is rather low so only a small froth pitcher will fit. And the frothing wand is short for deep frothing too.
The tamping needs a bit of work, and I would have bought a separate tamper if I had the cash back then. But if you’re using pods then it’s ok because there’s no need to tamp.
There is currently a promotion in Amazon.com for DeLonghi EC155, so the price is below $100! Those who are on a tight budget but still want a decent espresso machine, catch the deal now.
Click here to go directly to the Amazon product review page.
If you have the budget to spare, you might also want to check out my reviews for:
the Best Semi Automatic Espresso Machine – Rancilio Silvia; or
the Best Value Semi Automatic Espresso Machine – Gaggia 14101 Classic Espresso Machine.
My recommendations for super automatic espresso machines and coffee grinders can be found in my Best Espresso Machine page.
by Ken on August 18, 2011
What to do when you need an espresso and you’re outdoors or abroad or wherever there is no electric sources and no Starbucks? A Moka Pot is the answer!
Bialetti Moka Express Stovetop Espresso Maker
Bialetti Moka Express Stovetop Espresso Maker
I never thought of this until I went on a road trip last month, and it wasn’t at all practical to lug along any of my espresso machines (yes, I have a few and none of them fit the bill). So I took along this Bialetti Moka Express Stovetop Espresso Maker which I only bought out of interest, and I’m glad I did!
This cute little moka pot is the traditional thing in Italian families, it seems, and it does make espresso, even if it is not the pump-driven machine-made type with rich crema on top. The smaller size moka pot always makes the better espresso, and I have the 3-cup one.
No electricity?
As long as you have a stove, or a camp fire, you can work this little wonder to make an espresso. Fill the lower half with drinking water (never use chlorined tap water) and put the grounds in the filter, then brew it. Use low heat. It takes quite a long time but it’s acceptable since this is not a machine.
Cleaning up is even easier than you think. Rinse with tap water! No washing with soap because that will ruin the pot. Isn’t that even excellent for trips when you really have got to run?
Like I said, this Bialetti Moka Express Stovetop Espresso Maker is the best travel espresso maker. It’s cheap, won’t break your wallet even if you just use it on that one trip in a year. If you buy that handheld, battery-powered milk frother together with this, you can make a great cappuccino too!
Not looking for a travel espresso machine? Check out my other reviews:
Or go to my Best Espresso Machine main page for more recommendations!
by Ken on August 17, 2011
If you are the kind of person who truly cares about making a bloody good cup of espresso, and cares about controlling everything that makes a good cup of espresso, the La Pavoni EPC-8 Europiccola 8-Cup Lever Style Espresso Machine is the pick.
La Pavoni EPC-8 Europiccola 8-Cup Lever Style Espresso Machine
There’s no doubt that this espresso machine can make a great espresso, but can you make a great espresso with this machine? With the La Pavoni Europiccola, you have to grind, tamp, and pull your own shot. Some people even go as far as to roast their own beans, but that is not strictly required.
Quality Machine
This beautiful espresso machine in chrome is heavy and you can feel the quality of the parts when you pull. It is a machine only for the perfectionists because you won’t get superb espresso at the first shot. It takes some learning to get the pressure and timing precisely correct so that you get that lovely crema-topped espresso that tastes just right.
However, once you’ve learned the ways of the La Pavoni Europiccola, you’ll enjoy making espressos every day and serving awestruck guests as they come around.
Only for the Enthusiasts
Be warned, only buy this espresso machine if you will enjoy the whole process of the espresso making. If you think you can live with grinding and tamping, but not learning how to pull a perfect shot every time, get a semi automatic. If you want to press a button and get great espresso, get an automatic or super automatic.
The best thing about the La Pavoni EPC-8 Europiccola 8-Cup Lever Style Espresso Machine is that it has no flimsy breakable parts. No electronics to fail you at any time either. Parts like seals are easily replaceable. Find out more by following the link.
If this is not for you, I have other reviews as well:
Or go to my Best Espresso Machine main page for more recommendations!
by Ken on August 16, 2011
I think the Nespresso C100-US-AERO Essenza is one of the automatic single serve espresso machines that gives the best value. In fact, if you like to have cappuccino or espresso drinks at home everyday without going into all the trouble of hand pulling your own shot or washing up the machine each time afterward, get an automatic espresso machine like this one.
Nespresso C100-US-AERO Essenza Automatic Single-Serve Espresso Machine
No Worries, Taste is Great
I’ve had my doubts when it comes to automatic single serve espresso machines at first, just like everyone else. For one thing, they use pods instead of ground beans, would the taste be rich enough? And the pods can only be bought with the company making the machine, so if you don’t like their pods, the machine will become an ornament in the kitchen.
The first time I tasted an espresso made from Nespresso pods, all the doubts cleared away. There was no doubt that they can make good espresso, even if in pods, and there are many flavors to choose from, so anyone can find their favorite taste.
Way Easier to Use and Clean
Everything is so easy with the Nespresso C100-US-AERO Essenza! Just fill the water dispenser, pop in a pod, wait for the lights to stop blinking, then press the button. Voila! You get your rich smell of espresso before it comes out into the cup.
“The thought that I could enjoy coffee of that quality in my own home, at a whim in less than five minutes, blew my mind. And it was so easy! I ordered a C-100 as soon as I got home and have never been sorry.” – Robert Finklestein, at Amazon.com
Pour milk into the included Aeroccino froth maker until the bottom line (take care not to overfill or it’ll froth out of the container), put on the lid and press button. You can make hot milk, light froth or heavy froth with this for lattes and cappuccinos.
Tip: If you like hotter coffee, heat up the machine by running it once without the pod first.
Cleaning up is even easier! Just run the machine once with water, and clean the base by pulling it out, discarding the used pods and rinsing it.
This automatic espresso machine is so convenient that I bought one for my wife to put in her office. It’s very affordable compared to super automatics which cost over $1000, and she’s so pleased that she doesn’t have to waste a lot of time making coffee and cleaning up. She now spends more time finding out what other flavors there are to try instead! 
Nespresso C100-US-AERO Essenza is less than $300, and the pods cost $.55 each except for a couple of special varieties. The pods can only be bought at Nespresso online store, but a commenter found out that the patent will expire in 2012, so it will be more widely available soon.
Get the Nespresso C100-US-AERO Essenza Automatic Single-Serve Espresso Machine here, and choose the Titanium color for discounts and free shipping.
If you prefer to pull your own shot and be your own barista, check out the semi automatic espresso machines:
My Best Espresso Machine main page has more tips and guides for choosing the best espresso machine.
by Ken on August 14, 2011
I know some of us just want that regular cup of coffee every morning without having to go to all the fuss of tamping grounds and heating up the milk, not to mention washing up. That’s why a lot of people overspend more than $2 a day for coffee. But with the Nespresso CitiZ Automatic Espresso Maker, you’d think stopping by Starbucks is more trouble!
Nespresso CitiZ Automatic Espresso Maker and Milk Frother
Place this awesome espresso machine in your office or at home, and enjoy an espresso shot or a lungo whenever you like in 30 seconds flat, no mess, no fuss, and no skill needed. It’s so easy to use: just pop in the espresso coffee pod, wait for the lights to tell you it’s ready, and press the button.
The Nespresso CitiZ Automatic Espresso Maker only uses pods from Nespresso, but these are really good! They must have been made of espresso grounds. There are many flavors and intensity to try out and I’m sure everyone can find their favorite. One pod makes one cup, and each pod costs only $0.55.
And there’s none of that business of descaling or backflushing with this espresso machine, only press the button again to run the machine with water after use and dumping the used pods.
The frother is really good too! The froth is thick and the frother is easy to clean.
“Pour your favorite milk to fill line. Replace cover. Press button. Voile. Whisper quiet then thick, frothy suds for your perfect cup of espresso or coffee. “ – Mary Brown
There are a couple of reviewers saying that their frother on this combined unit didn’t last very long, but they are very satisfied with the espresso maker itself. If you make a lot of lattes a day, you may want to consider buying the espresso machine and frother separately.
For ultimate convenience and to save many bucks a day in coffee, get the Nespresso CitiZ Automatic Espresso Maker. It’s very affordable compared to the super automatics, and it’ll soon pay for itself.
If you like a more compact unit of automatic espresso machine, the Nespresso C-100 is a good choice. It has a smaller footprint because the frother is separate and can be stored away.
Those who prefer a higher end super automatic espresso machine, I recommend the Bosch Benvenuto B30. Or try DeLonghi ESAM3300 for good value. Anyway, I have more recommendations in my Best Espresso Machine main page.
If you know what is the meaning of Mercedes with cars and Microsoft with computer software, then you know what the meaning of Rancilio Silvia is with espresso machine. Gee, I didn’t know I could also be a great barista, until I bought this lovely machine!
I had some great fun polishing up my coffee-making skills, and it didn’t take me long to produce the best espresso I’ve ever made!
“If you like using a machine that will force you to develop your barista skills, the Silvia is for you.” – Steve Booth, reviewer at Coffeegeek.com.
Rancilio Silvia
Makes Professional Quality Coffee
I’m never going to Starbucks again while I have the Rancilio Silvia; I feel like a Starbucks barista myself now, brewing my own coffee in the mornings, especially when the quality is no less.
“Never really been a hobbyist before. But now that I’ve got a Silvia, I feel like one.” – Ted Sexauer, reviewer at Coffeegeek.com.
I especially love the steamer tip that comes with the machine. I like to have a cup of latte once in a while as a change to espresso shots, and this tip makes milk so snowy and smooth.
At first I thought that it is rather expensive – I bought it at Amazon.com for $899.99 – but a good friend pointed out that the number of shots I can make over the years with the Rancilio will save me a ton I would have splurged in Starbucks.
“We’ve had a Miss Silvia for over 7 years and it just keeps on working.” – Mel Hoppe, reviewer at Amazon.com.
Also nicknamed “Miss Silvia”, the Rancilio is a semi-automatic built with a sleek and shiny shell that made it look so professional in my kitchen.
From Great to Superb with Accessories
Although Rancilio Silvia is a great machine by itself, I’ve found it more satisfactory to have some additions to it.
A good coffee grinder is a MUST if you want all you can get from Miss Silvia. Many serious coffee lovers like me have invested in a Rancilio Rocky. True, the Rocky is rather expensive for amateurs, but you really won’t regret the purchase if you’ve tried the cheap grinders!
You can make Rancilio even better by adding a PID. I’ve found that I can make great coffee every single time after having the PID to control the temperature. I’ve also bought a better tamper and some cleaning brushes.
My Only Grudge with the Rancilio
If there is anything that I find a drawback with Miss Silvia, it’s that she heats up a bit slowly. I’m used to doing other things like making my toast while waiting for her to warm. Not good when I oversleep, ha ha.
Apparently other users thought that Rancilio Silvia espresso machine could do better with a water level indicator too, but it wasn’t a problem for me to add water every time.
Rancilio Silvia is the best espresso machine to have if you’re a SERIOUS coffee lover. I like to buy from Amazon.com because the return policy is cool, though I wouldn’t return the Silvia for anything.
Amazon.com says there’s only one left in stock at this writing, so go get it now!
If you think Miss Silvia is a bit out of your budget, I strongly recommend:
the Best Value Semi Automatic Espresso Machine – Gaggia 14101 Classic Espresso Machine; or
the Best Budget Semi Automatic Espresso Machine – DeLonghi EC155 Espresso Maker.
Other than that, more recommendations can be found in my Best Espresso Machine page.
I’m sure if you’ve been doing some research on the espresso machines that does it all – grinding, tamping and brewing – you know that super automatic machines like this don’t come with an attractive price tag. But here’s an exception!
Gaggia Syncrony 9004 is the super auto espresso machine I would recommend those with a tight budget.
Gaggia Syncrony 9004
If you are one who want your coffee fast without going through all the process of grinding and tamping the beans yourself, this unit is really a good buy because you won’t need to buy a separate grinder. It’s even cheaper than a high end semi-automatic espresso machine!
Best Budget Super Automatic
What’s great with this machine is that it has a double boiler to save time between brewing and steaming. The body of the machine is mostly plastic but the steamer is stainless steel, which is an important feature for some people.
Just like the best super auto machines, Gaggia Syncrony 9004 can make espresso shots from both beans and ground coffee, but don’t try fine ground! Use coarser ground so that the filter won’t clog up.
But then, I wouldn’t need a super automatic if I want to drink ground coffee all the time. That is just a convenience for guests who want decaf.
This machine also tells you when it’s time to decalcify it, although with some experience you’ll know without it having to remind you. When you forget, that’s the time your coffee will taste weird!
Tip: Use distilled water to avoid fast mineral buildups and protect the boilers.
What Else Matters
The position of the water container was criticized by a reviewer as a glitch in the design, but there are others who liked its compactness and small footprint.
“I didn’t prefer the water container right above the electrical input especially when you had a full container and carefully had to put it in place.” – apjordan, reviewer at Reviewcentre.com.
Overall, Gaggia Syncrony 9004 is a decent super automatic espresso machine for a reasonable price. Click here for more reviews on Gaggia Syncrony 9004.
Those who prefer a higher end super automatic espresso machine, I recommend the Bosch Benvenuto B30. Or try DeLonghi ESAM3300 for good value. Anyway, I have more recommendations in my Best Espresso Machine main page.
If you are a cappuccino or latte lover, take it from me you will absolutely love this machine!
The DeLonghi ESAM3300 is a super automatic espresso machine, meaning you just have to add the beans and water and press some buttons, and it will grind, tamp, and brew your coffee for you.
“This thing makes an absolutely wonderful shot of espresso, and great cappuccinos.” – D.S. Greenberg, reviewer at Amazon.com.
This was what my uncle had in his home way long ago that made me fell in love with real espresso instead of just strong coffee.
DeLonghi ESAM3300 Magnifica
Best Cappuccino Machine
Why did I say cappuccino lovers are nuts about this machine? Because the foam from the DeLonghi ESAM3300 is spectacular. With a bit of practice, this machine will give you that oh-so-lovely foam that doesn’t have a visible bubble in it.
I myself am not particular about milk-based coffee, but I must say I am very impressed with the DeLonghi ESAM3300 in this area. Definitely the best unit for it!
DeLonghi ESAM3300 is a gem for frothing milk. The steaming tip did spit water for a few seconds when you turn on the frother, but after that it steams up and you just have to place the tip into the milk to produce the best froth ever.
What You Might Not Like
I remember that the grinding was pretty loud, compared to the other machines I’ve used since, but seeing as most people use espresso machines in the mornings, this shouldn’t be too much of a problem.
Some users have complained that the build wasn’t so durable, but there are plenty of them who claimed that their DeLonghi 3300 lasted years. That reminds me to ask my uncle whether his unit is still working well.
Best Value Super Automatic
Using and cleaning DeLonghi ESAM3300 is a breeze, the tamping is good, and it makes good crema. What more to ask?
I think this is the best value super automatic unit around – currently it’s selling below $800 with free shipping at Amazon – because super automatics usually come with a super price tag as well. Really, if I wasn’t so pleased with my semi-automatic Rancilio, I would rush to catch the near-half-price discount.
If you have the budget, check out the best super automatic espresso machine also. On the other hand, for those with a tight budget, Gaggia Syncrony is the best alternative.
Other tips and guides for espresso machines are available at my Best Espresso Machine site.
Do you know what it means to wake up in the morning, find your barista ready in your kitchen, tell him exactly what you want, then in two minutes just sit down and enjoy a cup of great coffee? Do you love drinking coffee, but couldn’t be bothered to do the grinding, tamping and brewing? If you answered yes to both questions, then you’ve got to have the Bosch Benvenuto B30.
Bosch TCA6301UC Benvenuto B30 Thermoblock
When I married my wife, a close friend gave us this Bosch Benvenuto. It is so easy to use; anyone can use it to make great espresso!
Personal Barista In Your Kitchen
It has an automatic timer function, so I preset it to turn on just before I wake up. When I want my coffee, it’s ready for my instructions, just like my personal barista.
I take my cup which is kept warm on the top of the machine, put it under the spout. Then I choose the size I want by flipping the switch, and it starts measuring and grinding the beans when I push the button. In less than two minutes, my coffee is ready!
You don’t even have to worry about the height of the spouts when you choose a different size coffee, because they are adjustable. How cool is that? Sometimes when I need a super large mug, I just hold the mug to the spouts from the side, without having to remove the tray beneath.
Please Everyone in the Family
Everything about this espresso machine is intelligent. When it’s time to add water, empty the grounds tray, change the filter or clean the machine, it tells you so. Then you just do whatever it says. Cleaning is very easy too, just put a cleaning tablet and run the cleaning cycle by pushing a button!
The Bosch Benvenuto is especially wonderful for families who love coffee. Besides having every size from small espresso shots to XXL coffee mugs, you can choose the coffee strength from mild to extra strong. You can also put pre-ground coffee in another container. In short, it can satisfy everyone!
The only thing is, you have to add water often if you brew a lot of coffee, of course. I didn’t mind that because I want fresh distilled water for my coffee every time.
“It’s been 15 months and 2,699 “brews” since we bought it. STILL works flawlessly…we’ve saved $3,373 by not going to Starbucks.” – Bill Timmons, reviewer at Amazon.com
If you can’t wait to get the Bosch Benvenuto, click here to go to the Amazon page. They’re offering a $271 discount and FREE shipping now.
But if you prefer to do your own grinding and tamping, you can check out my favorite semi-automatics:
My Best Espresso Machine main page has more tips and guides for choosing the best espresso machine.
I bought this steam driven espresso machine for my mum earlier, who is not really a coffee enthusiast, but likes to drink a cup or two sometimes.
I myself wouldn’t have bought steam driven machines, since they never bring out the essence of espressos, but as far as steam driven machines go, this Kalorik EXP25022 makes coffee with the smoothest flavor.
Kalorik EXP 25022 800W 4-Cup Espresso Maker – Best Steam Driven Espresso Machine
Cheap and Easy To Use
For me, the best thing about steam driven espresso machines is that they are very cheap, of course. Can you imagine having a machine that makes “ok” coffee for ten to twenty times less than the high end espresso machines out there?
That just about satisfies my mum’s need for coffee. If she knew I spent $899 on my Rancilio Silvia, I can picture her face before she shrieks the number in a high-pitched voice. But this machine is just below $50!
Since she didn’t care about being a barista anyway, this easy to use machine suits her well. She just had to select espresso, steam or off with the simple function switch.
Kalorik EXP25022 is quite a small and lightweight machine that can make up to 4 cups of espresso. My mum always gets excited about the swivel steam nozzle that tops her cappuccino with froth. She says that makes it look restaurant-served.
Overall this espresso machine is a simple and affordable coffee maker that can make something close to authentic espresso.
A good place to get this Kalorik EXP25022 is at Amazon.com, where they are offering a 17% discount and FREE shipping at this moment. Check it out here:
For real espressos and great fun making them, get a semi automatic espresso machine instead! The best one is my favorite Rancilio Silvia, while the budget one is DeLonghi EC155.
Read more reviews, recommendations and espresso machine tips in my Best Espresso Machine site.
