Breville BES400XL Ikon 15-Bar-Pump Espresso Machine Review

Updated:New rating 2 stars due to longevity issues.

We've owned 3 or 4 different espresso makers over the years, paying big bucks for some.This was the first that delivered for us day in and day out... at least at first.It lasted a lot longer than most until it failed about 14 months after buying it.We have replaced it with the Le Cube Nespresso 180 espresso maker (see our other review there)

Pro:
+ Consistent brew with a great flavor
+ Creates a good (but not best) coffee crema, unlike many other brands
+ A good solid feel to it, does not feel cheap or flimsy to us
+ Overflow tray is huge (and much appreciated I might add)
+ Comes with a stainless frothing cup and scoop for coffee (the other end of the scoop doubles as a coffee tamper too)
+ Seems to handle/tolerate a variety of grinds, fine and course, something other brands seemed to hate
+ Very easy to see remaining water/water level at a glance, thank you!
+ For those who put their appliances away instead of leaving them on the counter: the power plug has a thumb-sized hole in it to more easily (and more safely) pull the plug.I've never seen this feature before.
+ Overflow tray that sits under your cup has a novel "full" indicator/float that pops up when the tray is full and needs to be emptied
+ Comes with espresso cups

Con:
- The clear water container a little awkward with the frothing wand and/or when the coffee holder is inserted in the machine.We find that these items are in the way and need to be moved to slide the water container out of the unit.Probably a picky comment that should not detract from your impression of this gem.
- Water container also has some awkward angles, complicating cleaning.
- Overflow tray "full" indicator noted in the "pro" section above only warns you when the tray is absolutely full with no margin for error, making for an interesting and exciting trip to the sink
- Lasted longer than other models, but ultimately failed shortly after the warranty ended

Neutral:
x Priming/heat-up process, while fast, was very different from our other models.Not an issue, but you need to get used to it.

Bottom line: no longer recommended due to low quality of internal mechanism(s).

Click Here to see more reviews about: Breville BES400XL Ikon 15-Bar-Pump Espresso Machine

Product Description:
The Breville IKON Espresso Machine has a high performance stainless steel boiler system:precision coffee extraction temperature with commercial power steam pressure.It has a soft touch electronic control pad for ease of use and that also streamlines the look of the machine.It has a solid die-cast base with double wall brushed stainless steel chassis and body construction.Breville's patent applied Easy Eject system makes for easy removal to clean and exchange filters with advanced dual wall technology for cafe quality crema at home.

Buy cheap Breville BES400XL Ikon 15-Bar-Pump Espresso Machine now

Jura-Capresso 66314 IMPRESSA Care Kit for Jura-Capresso Automatic Coffee Centers Review

If you have a Jura, the next thing you should buy is this kit.It has all the components you need to maintain the Jura in top notch working order.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Jura-Capresso 66314 IMPRESSA Care Kit for Jura-Capresso Automatic Coffee Centers

Product Description:
This care kit will provide you for many months with all the necessary supplies to keep your IMPRESSA Automatic Coffee Center from JURA-Capresso in top shape.Proper, timely maintenance will reward you with, better coffee, better frothing results and longer life of your machine. This Care Kit includes: 3 Clearyl Water Filters, 6 Cleaning Tablets, 1 32-ounce bottle of Cappuccino Cleaner Concentrate and a Container to hold frothing accessories while cleaning.

Buy cheap Jura-Capresso 66314 IMPRESSA Care Kit for Jura-Capresso Automatic Coffee Centers now

WMF Kult 4-Cup Stovetop Espresso, 4 Cup Review

I researched carefully and I can only conclude that the maker of this espresso machine (stovetop) wants to give the impression that it is a German-designed including manufactured, product.When I received the espresso maker, in print so fine as to need a magnifying glass, is the disclosure: made in China.This item is therefore not befitting it's price and is not a clear advantage to use due to it's technology and quality (as is the impression given). It has been my experience that stainless steel from China or Korea is of poor quality and will in short time stain. Having held this in my hand, I do not find it remarkable.I have ordered in it's stead, a stovetop espresso maker that still offers 18/10 stainless steel quality, a noted reputable manufacturing company (with origin) at a fair cost.

Click Here to see more reviews about: WMF Kult 4-Cup Stovetop Espresso, 4 Cup

Product Description:
This WMF Kult stovetop espresso features a beautiful European design in high quality stainless steel, with a brushed matte finish and a 4 cup capacity. To brew a wonderfully rich and aromatic coffee, unscrew the base from the top section and fill with water. Take the funnel shaped removable cup and add your espresso grounds and tamp down. Screw the top section back onto the base and put on the small burner on the stovetop. When the water reaches the boiling point, the steam pressure forces the water up through the grounds and into the upper chamber. Serve this wonderful coffee directly from the pot.The hinged lid allows for easy cleaning.

Buy cheap WMF Kult 4-Cup Stovetop Espresso, 4 Cup now Get 20% OFF

Bialetti Brikka 4-Cup Stovetop Percolator Review

I actually bought this for my wife for her birthday - but I think I enjoy it more then she does.

I know that this doesn't make "true" espresso but it comes mighty close in my opinion (i'm not much of a connoisseur, but I do love a good cup). In fact this is better then most any other espressos i've had! I love the coffee this thing produces! The first night I ended up drinking 6 shots of 'espresso' made with fresh Baba Budan beans and I still wanted more! I couldn't do it though because it was 1:00 in the morning and I was wide awake from drinking so much coffee.

Here are a few tips for you...

Make sure you have a Burr grinder. You want a fine grind (but not too fine) to get the most out of your coffee. Burr grinders can be quite the investment but well worth it. You will need a Burr grinder for any espresso machine anyways.

Make sure you have cups close by. This thing will suddenly shoot out coffee and if you're not quick enough you might get some coffee on your stove... as soon as you hear the gurgle and whistle get your cup ready! (you'll know what i'm talkin about...), After a few rounds you'll have it down.

Chances are your first pot will not turn out perfect (unless you've done something like this before...which I haven't). The good news is that after your first time you will understand how the process works and everything will be fine after that!

Clean this as soon as you can! It will be hot for awhile but try to clean it ASAP to make cleaning easier. It's worth it... trust me.

Follow the instructions EXACTLY. It's not hard to do by any means but make sure you read the instructions. if you accidently do something wrong such as pack in the coffee tightly then you will be sorry. The instructions are very simple but very useful.

I noticed one reviewer mentioned that this coffee comes out tasting burnt. If you grind your coffee too fine then it gets caked inside the coffee holder and it takes longer for the coffee to make it up inside the main chamber (excuse my lack of correct terminology). This does cause a burnt flavor because only a little bit of coffee comes out at a time which causes that little bit to become a bit burnt before the next splash comes through. If you grind it slightly more coarse then this will not happen and your coffee will taste amazing. I have a feeling that the people that mention the burnt flavor are grinding their coffee a bit too fine. You want the coffee to be ground fine but not like flour... more like fine sugar.

Have fun! This simple little gadget makes a fine cup. Enjoy!

Click Here to see more reviews about: Bialetti Brikka 4-Cup Stovetop Percolator

Product Description:
Aluminum, stovetop espresso maker has a patented value that produces 4 cups of frothy, creamy, rich, authentic Italian espresso in just 4-5 minutes.

Buy cheap Bialetti Brikka 4-Cup Stovetop Percolator now

Mypressi Twist Portable Espresso Maker Review

The Mypressi was definitely worth the wait!

The Mypressi is very well made and feels solid. It's evident that care was taken during design- all pieces fit together nicely and seams line up providing a nice presentation. The instructions provided are clear and simple.

From the time it took to unpack the Mypressi to my first double espresso being pulled was about 2 minutes including the 25 second pull time. Disassembly was equally quick and easy. The clean up was minimal and the Mypressi could easily be used during a hectic morning or on the go.

Three baskets were provided, I learned that the "pressurized basket" works best with espresso ground using the machine at the grocery store. The grounds didn't quite get fine enough to use the "standard basket."Luckily the instructions have a well laid out FAQ for situations like this. The water bowl has a very good marking inside of it so there's no guess work involved when adding water for a single or double shot.

The espresso produced was very impressive. To put it simply, my local coffee shop just lost a customer.

Every aspect of this product makes sense and its really clear that the inventors thought it through. Overall, the Mypressi far exceeded my expectations. It's well made, simple to use, and makes really good espresso!

Click Here to see more reviews about: Mypressi Twist Portable Espresso Maker

Product Description:
Enjoy delicious coffee and espresso-based beverages with a portable espresso maker that requires no external power, no lever, no dials, no power cords, and no complex set up. Voted best new consumer product of 2009/2010 by the Specialty Coffee Association of America (SCAA), the world's largest association of coffee professionals, the Twist is truly portable and incredibly easy to use. And it makes delicious, smooth espresso time after time. Producing single or double shots from either fresh-ground coffee or ESE pods, the Twist requires no external power. Just put in the pod or ground coffee, pour in some hot water, and pull the trigger. Espresso requires high pressure to make a perfect shot, and the Twist's extraordinary espresso engine uses the same 100-percent recyclable and affordable 8g pressure cartridges that have been safely used in whipped cream dispensers and soda makers around the world for over 80 years. Each cartridge has sufficient pressure to make up to four double shots and eight single shots of espresso. The Twist's patent-pending technology regulates the cartridge to provide the perfect amount of pressure required to make delicious shots of espresso time after time. The Twist also easily creates the espresso base for a delicious range of drinks and desserts like cappuccinos, mochas, lattes, affogatos, frozen coffee drinks, espresso martinis, and more. The Twist is also easy to clean without requiring special tablets or complex cleaning procedures. Just give it a quick rinse when you're done.* Delicious espresso delivered effortlessly in single or double shots from this stylish award-winning portable espresso maker * Perfect for the home or office, the great outdoors, or anytime you are among family and friends * High temperature stability ensures the espresso is extracted at the perfect temperature, while the dynamic pressure engine ensures a soft pre-infusion and build up, ensuring the ultimate in smooth-tasting coffee * Converts from ESE Pods to fresh ground coffee in just seconds; Easy for beginners while allowing espresso enthusiasts to get the most from their beans * This item is not for sale in Catalina Island

Buy cheap Mypressi Twist Portable Espresso Maker now

Forever Espresso Miss Moka 6 Cup Espresso Maker. Review

this is a great product. The first couple brews were testing tries.First time water got off the middle because I didn't close it hard enough.The second one tasted kinda burny because I left it longer than needed in the heat. The third one was good enough to drink but way to strong because I didn't use enough water.From the fourth one on i brew perfection.Good stuff!

Click Here to see more reviews about: Forever Espresso Miss Moka 6 Cup Espresso Maker.

Product Description:
The Miss Moka 6 Cup Espresso Maker is a is a real Italian coffee maker. Hand polished finish, ergonomic handle and functional spout.

Buy cheap Forever Espresso Miss Moka 6 Cup Espresso Maker. now Get 20% OFF

Villaware Aromatico Stovetop Espresso Maker - 2 cup Review

It's a stainless moka. Sizes for espresso makers are measured in espresso shots, like what you'd get at starbucks. Two cups is 2oz. It takes some skill to use one of these. Start with espresso ground coffee. I like a full city roast rather than burnt black espresso roast. Less bitter. Personal preference. Preparation: you are trying to do this without getting the coffee hotter than necessary. The grounds cup should be full of espresso but not tamped. I boil water first, fill to the first line, put the holder in, screw the whole thing shut using a potholder on the bottom part, and then put the machine on a low burner, carefully keeping the handle away from the heat. You can learn why I do it exactly this way by doing it differently if you like. I've done a lot of experimentation. I like the espressos I get from my giant machine better, but I travel a lot and I bring one of these with me all the time. Stainless is nicer than aluminum because it can go through the dishwasher, doesn't fill up with weird guck if you don't clean it right away, and the top doesn't get hot as fast which helps keep your espresso from boiling which is good.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Villaware Aromatico Stovetop Espresso Maker - 2 cup

Product Description:
Elegant Style combined with high quality construction.Heavy gauge Inox 18/10 stianless steel. For use on Gas, Electric or Induction Stoves. Made in Italy.Replacement gaskets available.

Buy cheap Villaware Aromatico Stovetop Espresso Maker - 2 cup now

Gevalia Signature Crema Coffee (Mild), 16-Count T-Discs for Tassimo Coffeemakers (Pack of 2) [Amazon Frustration-Free Packaging] Review

This is probably one of the best cups of coffee you'll ever have.I bought the Tassimo coffee maker back in December '09 and I received several T-Discs samplers (after a mail-in rebate offer).Out of all the samplers I received, the Gevalia Signature Crema was by far the best.I ordered this brand from Amazon shortly after, and I've been hooked ever since.The aroma this coffee makes when it's brewing is amazing, the taste is even better.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Gevalia Signature Crema Coffee (Mild), 16-Count T-Discs for Tassimo Coffeemakers (Pack of 2)

Product Description:
The unique, inviting aroma of Gevalia Signature Blend is accented with a delicate layer of velvety foam.

Buy cheap Gevalia Signature Crema Coffee (Mild), 16-Count T-Discs for Tassimo Coffeemakers (Pack of 2) now Get 2% OFF

Kenco Classic Blend Coffee, T-Discs for Tassimo Coffeemakers, 16-Count Packages (Pack of 2) [Amazon Frustration-Free Packaging] Review

This is one of my favorite blends for the Tassimo.In the morning I usually go with a stronger cup like Henry's Best, but as a daily cup I find this to be very satisfying.I would equate it to the Dunkin Donuts of the Tassimo.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Kenco Classic Blend Coffee, T-Discs for Tassimo Coffeemakers, 16-Count Packages (Pack of 2)

Product Description:
This wonderfully smooth and aromatic coffee with a well rounded character comes to us from one of the UK's leading coffee brands. Imported especially for Tassimo.

Buy cheap Kenco Classic Blend Coffee, T-Discs for Tassimo Coffeemakers, 16-Count Packages (Pack of 2) now

Mastro Lorenzo Crema Coffee, T-Discs for Tassimo Coffeemakers, 16-Count Packages (Pack of 2) [Amazon Frustration-Free Packaging] Review

I really enjoy this coffee. It only provides about 6-8 ounces but I find it to be much smoother and better than many of the other options. The other reviewer seemed upset about the small size and if you are into American style coffee that is weaker and comes in a huge mug this is not your best option. If you like the strong smooth European style coffee this should be a great choice.

Sometimes I am in the mood for this and sometimes I choose an American style. I do really enjoy this however. Great addition to Amazon as I could only find it at Tassimo direct before.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Mastro Lorenzo Crema Coffee, T-Discs for Tassimo Coffeemakers, 16-Count Packages (Pack of 2)

Product Description:
A bold brew from the respected European brand Mastro Lorenzo, topped with delicate foam. Imported exclusively for Tassimo.

Buy cheap Mastro Lorenzo Crema Coffee, T-Discs for Tassimo Coffeemakers, 16-Count Packages (Pack of 2) now

DeLonghi EC702 15-Bar-Pump Espresso Maker, Stainless Review

Basically all of the negative reviews they did not read the instructions well enough. This thing kicks ass for a 15 bar espresso/cappuccino machine for under (...). Perfect crema, nice steam, cleans easily. Sexy stainless. Of course it doesn't have auto on-off... IT IS AN ESPRESSO MACHINE! The timing is different every time as the water pumps through, and how will it know if you are making a short, a double or if you want to turn it off early? If you are too lazy to push a single button to start and stop the pump, get a "Mr. Coffee" and quit whining that your appliance doesn't tie your shoes for you... The steam nozzle only leaks if you don't close it. If you don't put the lever back to the closed position all the way, yes, then water sprays out. When it is not in steam mode and the valve is open it sprays water, thats what it is supposed to do (for tea, etc.). It is not that complicated a machine, but common sense is uncommon to most people. It heats up fast, makes a delicious cup of cappuccino or espresso and cleans up easily. The warming rack on the top is designed well also. It makes me happy to turn this thing on in the morning. It prefers finely ground espresso, not espresso ground for drip machines or stovetops. If you are a "pod" person, you should be ashamed and really don't need this machine. This machine is for brewing a real cup with fresh grounds.

If you can work simple machinery and like espresso/cappuccino from freshly ground beans, get this machine and enjoy.

If you are a bit lazy and prefer everything to be automatic and are the type to use "pods", do not get this machine.

Click Here to see more reviews about: DeLonghi EC702 15-Bar-Pump Espresso Maker, Stainless

Product Description:
DeLonghi EC702 Esclusivo Espresso Maker is a 15 bar pump-driven machine with the patented dual function filter holder, accommodating two separate attachments - the patented Sempre Crema Filter and the ESE Filter. This espresso maker includes the adjustable patented Cappuccino System Frother, which has a special chamber that mixes steam and milk to create a rich creamy froth for the ideal beverage. With this machine is a cup storage tray, removable 1.3-liter (44oz) water tank, and large removable drip tray. The self-priming operation prepares a favorite beverage quickly and easily with no annoying start-up preparation. Other features offered is the stainless steel boiler, an on/off switch with indicator light, anti-drip design, and two separate thermostats which control the water and steam pressure separately to enable the ability to make espresso or cappuccino at the perfect temperature.

Buy cheap DeLonghi EC702 15-Bar-Pump Espresso Maker, Stainless now Get 46% OFF