Krups XP4050 1200-Watt 15-Bar-Pump Programmable Espresso Machine

Good model for beginners who are experimenting with espresso

I would recommend the Krups XP4050 only to espresso novices, who are looking for an affordable way to experiment. Instructions that come with the machine are helpful and should ease any newbie smoothly into getting acquainted with home brewing.

The water temperature is perfectly hot, like what you’d expect from any reputable coffee shop. Frothing milk is fairly easy and straightforward, but make sure you use very cold milk or else you will be frothing away with little to no success.

Heating time is under a minute when I made only espresso, though it took considerably longer to heat up the foam for making cappuccino and latte.

One thing to take note of, as it’s not in the manual, is to remove the portafilter each time you’ve brewed a shot. DO NOT leave it in the machine. The rubber will harden after some time and result in leaking.

Minor Gripes

It would be more convenient if the water tank were bigger. It also lacks an indicator that lets you know when water is running low. The only way to check is to manually open the back top.

This machine is also one of the more noisier ones that I’ve tried.

More serious users may have greater demands that the Krups XP4050 simply wasn’t made for. Beginner brewers or those looking for a basic machine will find this to be a decently priced, quality model.

Amazon is offering a good deal on the Krups XP4050 at just under $250 (saving 31%). These are going quick, as there are only 2 units left!

You might also want to check out my reviews for:
the Best Budget Semi Automatic Espresso Machine – DeLonghi EC155; or
the Best Semi Automatic Espresso Machine – Rancilio Silvia; or
the Best Value Semi Automatic Espresso Machine – Gaggia 14101 Classic.

You can find more recommendations for super automatic espresso machines and coffee grinders in my Espresso Machine Reviews page.

Breville 800ESXL Commercial 15-Bar Triple-Priming Die-Cast Espresso Machine

Admittedly when I first tried the Breville 800ESXL, I had to work my way around a few things. But I’m so glad I did, because this machine makes an outstanding cup of espresso.

The Breville 800E is a dream to use, once you know how to work around it
This is a machine you won’t be able to keep your hands off, especially when it’s basking in all its stainless steel glory on your kitchen counter.

Although it heats up fairly quickly, I usually pre-heat the machine and have the water run through the porta filter for a few seconds first. This allows the water temperature to heat up more, and gives much better results.

I’ve also invested in a quality grinder such as the Rancilio Rocky, which I believe makes it a lot easier. If the grind is too fine, not only do I end up without coffee, but there’s a wet mess to take care of. A good grinder ensures the right consistency and of course, great espresso.

I stumbled a bit during my first few cups using the Breville 800ESXL, but found that most of the time it wasn’t the machine’s fault. For instance, I knew that my tamping technique needed to improve, which resulted in mediocre coffee. I practiced with the included Breville scoop and voila! perfect cup every time.

“After extensive research on how to make a perfect cup of Espresso, I am proud to say this is THE machine that produced a lot of CREMA.” – Jackson Hsu, Amazon.com

I’ve always had a soft spot for beautiful crema floating on a cup of espresso. The Breville 800ESXL produces very thick and rich brown cream needed in any presentable cup of espresso.

On days when I like to spice things up with a latte, I froth whole milk in the jug. After a couple of failed attempts at frothing, I referred to the Breville website and learned its suggested method of moving the jug in a circular motion each time. This method produced perfect froth every time.

To clean up, simply wipe the froth tube with a wet cloth and run it once more with a jug of water. It really doesn’t get any easier!

Remember to clean up after yourself. ALWAYS!

Several reviewers on Amazon have also commented on clogged filters, but experience with many espresso machines have taught me to clean up after EACH USE. Don’t be lazy and expect the machine to clean itself! I’ve been enjoying clog-free machines ever since this ‘revelation’.

Another thing to note is the Breville 800ESXL will not give you a dry puck after use. No big deal, I say. I give it a quick rinse and leave it to dry.

The Breville 800ESXL won’t disappoint. Just don’t be disheartened if the first few cups don’t turn out. This is a great machine built to last and will greet you very nicely every morning.

Granted, it’s not the most affordable model around, but you’ll spend a whole lot more at the store and really, it’s so rewarding when you make it yourself.

You can grab it here at Amazon but hurry, as there are only 3 units left!

You might also want to check out my reviews for:
the Best Budget Semi Automatic Espresso Machine – DeLonghi EC155; or
the Best Semi Automatic Espresso Machine – Rancilio Silvia; or
the Best Value Semi Automatic Espresso Machine – Gaggia 14101 Classic.

You can find more recommendations for super automatic espresso machines and coffee grinders in my Espresso Machine Reviews page.

But let’s not beat around the bush, I’ve compiled a few points that you should consider while buying your espresso machine, and here they are:

1. Sturdy and replaceable parts
Two points here, actually. Sturdy, because you want it to last longer; and replaceable, because you want it to last longer still! Most above mid-end espresso machines have replaceable parts now, and everything can be found online.

2. Quality boiler(s)
There are 3 types of boilers in espresso machines out there: aluminum, stainless steel and brass.

Aluminum – Cheaper but might corrode in the long run. Corrosion happens because of chloride in tap water. Luckily I always used distilled water with my Gaggia 14101 Classic previously.

Stainless steel – Won’t corrode easily but said to be bacteria friendly.

Brass – Best material for boilers in espresso machines because it won’t corrode or breed bacteria, but contributes to the price. My Rancilio Silvia has added this value to its price tag!

3. User-friendly
Do you have family members who are not a good barista like you? You might want to consider getting an espresso machine which is easier to operate for their benefit. Super automatics are much more user friendly than semi automatics, of course, and among super automatics I think the Bosch Benvenuto B30 is the most user-friendly.

4. Heats up fast
You might or might not need this feature. If you’re the kind who are always on the go, then it’s better to look out for machines that make your coffee real quick in the mornings.

5. Accessible and adjustable spouts
Everyone wants a different size of coffee? No problem if you have adjustable spouts with your machine just like the Bosch Benvenuto B30 but bad luck if you have a budget machine like DeLonghi EC155 which can only accommodate shot glasses or espresso cups.

6. Safe design
Safety is no doubt an important thing. Check whether the model you intend to buy has any safety issues with other users.

7. Easy to clean
This actually depends on how good you are at cleaning. I have written a guide on how to clean your espresso machine; take a read and see whether you think that’s too difficult to achieve. If it is, go ahead and buy a super automatic machine that has automatic cleaning cycles.

Last but not least, always remember that no espresso machine is perfect! So the aim is to get the best espresso machine within your budget range.
I have changed espresso machines many times since my college days; each time is an upgrade, but I still like every one of the machines I owned. This is because I made a lot of research online before buying and each of them is the best within their range!

Anyway you can see my list of recommendations for various types of espresso machines in my Espresso Machine Reviews main page.

I’ve learned from experience that even the best espresso machine, best grinder and best coffee beans all combined could not make the best espresso, if your machine is sitting in rancid oils and stale milk!

You know of course that the delicious crema on the finest espresso comes from the essential oils in the beans. So logically that must mean the oils are also present inside the machine when you make your coffee, right?

These oils will emulsify over time and hang on to the water screen, filter basket and portafilter. After a while, they turn bad and develop a smell that will go into your espresso every time you make one. Ew!

As for milk, there will be some residue on the steam wand and in the nozzle every time you use it. If you let it be, milk turn sour very quickly and will become a sticky layer of white. Yuk! Now can you imagine what goes into your cup of coffee if you don’t wash the machine? I think you can!

Well, that is the main reason I clean my Rancilio Silvia very regularly, but there is another reason as well. Espresso machines, just like any other inventions that man made to make life better, need to be serviced and maintained to preserve its lifespan.

Simply put, treat your espresso machine well and it will serve you for many years! Those who still can’t be bothered, just don’t come complaining when the filter is clogged, the steam wand spits and chokes, or when the boiler is a gone case.

Want to start cleaning your machine right away but don’t know how? Click here for some tips.

Go to my main page for more guides and recommendations for espresso machines.

There are some materials you may need to prepare before cleaning:

Espresso machine cleaner kit (including flushing detergent) *IMPORTANT: Never use conventional detergent!
Backflush portafilter basket
Descaler or Citric acid (or any other weak acids, such as vinegar)*IMPORTANT: Never use strong acid like hydrochloric acid!
Clean kitchen towel and dishrag.
‘Green scrubby’ of 1’X 1’ size or any similar non-grating materials for scrubbing
A container of size capable to soak in the portafilter.

You need to clean your espresso machine:

• After every shot
• Daily
• Weekly; and
• Every 3 to 6 months

If you clean according to the routines, your espresso machine will shine with glamor and look healthy. Perhaps it may even last longer than its supposed life. The most important thing is, you’ll have great espresso every time! So here are the steps to do it:

After Shot Cleaning
This process is perhaps the simplest and easiest cleaning process.

What you need to do is just clean the milk wand thoroughly using a damp towel and release some steam to expel any milk trapped in the nozzle hole and you are ready for another cup of coffee.

If you are not going to prepare another coffee, you should empty the grounds from filter basket and rinse thoroughly from the group head, then wipe it dry and reinstall it back to the machine. After that, run some water through it from the spout to rinse out any remaining stains.

Daily routine
1. Wipe off the residue on your shower screen with a damp towel.
2. Install the backflush portafilter basket into the portafilter.
3. Run water though the group head and jiggle the filter handle to rinse water around the shower screen and parts around the group head. Beware as the water splashed out is hot! Use lower boiler temperature to prevent scalding.
4. Tighten the filter handle and run water into the group head as though you are making espresso.
5. Let the water pressure in the machine build up for 15 seconds then release it along with the stains. This step is known as backflushing.
6. Repeat the backflushing for at least 5 times or until the water released from it is clear.
7. Remove the portafilter and drip tray. You may notice there are small coffee particles and brown tint to the water.
8. Rinse the drip tray (and remove any undissolved detergent if used)
9. Reinstall the portafilter and drip tray after cleaning.

Weekly routine
I shall make this part brief as the steps are almost similar to that of the daily routine with only addition of detergent.

1. Measure the recommended amount of the detergent as mentioned by the manufacturer then pour it into the backflush portafilter basket.
2. Install the backflush portafilter basket into the portafilter and add the recommended amount of detergent into the portafilter.
3. After that, you just have to follow the steps 3 to steps 9 of the daily routine.

Additionally, you must also soak both the backflush portafilter basket and the portafilter into a container with water and detergent and scrub them clean. If your group head is removable, remove it and soak it into detergent water and scrub it clean too.

Every 3 to 6 months routine
This routine is dependent on the hardness of water of your water supply as it is meant to remove minerals collected in your machine. The higher the mineral content, the harder the water is. Water test reagent or strips can be used to test hardness of water.

1. Empty the water reservoir and fill it with descaler of appropriate amount or amount as suggested by manufacturer.
2. Initiate the machine for the descaler to enter the boiler and pipes.
3. Run some of the descaling solution through the hot water wand and group head too.
4. Leave the machine switched on for at least half an hour with descaling solution in it.
5. Empty the reservoir and refill it with clean water. Rinse the machine as you did with the descaler.
6. Repeat steps 5 for at least 2 times or until you are satisfied.
7. Use a litmus paper to test the pH of the water to ensure all the descaler has been rinsed out. If the blue litmus paper turns red, repeat the rinsing with clean water again.

Well, I hope the steps are simple enough to follow. Happy cleaning and enjoy your espresso!

I have more tips and recommendations in my Espresso Machine Reviews website.

Well, I’ve listed out some suggestions for you, can’t say I’ve tried them all, but some of these are rather fun to make.

Americano – A shot of espresso watered down with about 7 oz of hot water.

Café Breva – Same as cappuccino, but using half-and-half milk instead of whole milk.

Café Latté – A shot of espresso with steamed milk at the ratio of 3:1.

Café Macchiato – A shot of espresso with steamed milk at the ratio of 4:1.

Cappuccino – Equal parts of espresso, steamed milk and frothed milk. To make it look restaurant-served, you can add whipped cream, chocolate flakes or cinnamon sprinkled on top.

Dry Cappuccino – A cappuccino with less foam and no steamed milk.

Espresso Con Panna – Espresso with whipped cream on top.

Frappé – A cold espresso with ice and milk, just like a coffee milkshake.

Hammerhead/Shot in the Dark – A mix of drip coffee and one shot of espresso served in a regular size coffee cup.

Mocha/Mochaccino – A cappuccino or café latté with added chocolate syrup.

Ok, I hope you find these enjoyable as a variety to your daily coffee menu. Cheers!

Go to my main page or blog for more espresso machine tips and guides.

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 Espresso Machine Reviews main page.

The DeLonghi 3300 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 3300 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 3300 in this area. Definitely the best unit for it!

DeLonghi 3300 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 3300 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 Espresso Machine Reviews site.

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:

Rancilio Silvia – Best Semi Automatic Espresso Machine
Gaggia Classic 14101 – Best Value Semi Automatic Espresso Machine
DeLonghi EC155 – Best Budget Semi Automatic Espresso Machine

My Espresso Machine Reviews main page has more tips and guides for choosing the best espresso machine.

If you buy a super-automatic espresso machine, then of course you don’t need to buy a separate grinder. But if you have a semi-automatic like me, you’re probably looking for a good grinder that can give you that fine quality ground beans for a perfect espresso.

There are two popular types of grinders out there:

1) Blade grinders
2) Burr grinders

Blade Grinders
These are the cheaper grinders in the market, using a blade to chop up the beans. If you’ve seen a blender before, then you get the idea. The longer you let it run, the finer the grounds are.

Bad news though, these type of grinders don’t produce even-sized grounds, and the blades heat up a bit when they run too long, causing the coffee grounds to come out with a slightly burnt taste. All these are determining factors for what goes into your cup, but all I say is that you get what you pay for.

My recommendation for this type of grinder: Best Blade Coffee Grinder – Krups Fast Touch 203

Burr Grinders
Burr grinders produce more even-sized grounds, because the beans are crushed between one moving wheel and one immobile surface. The cheaper type of a burr grinder is the wheel burr grinder, which is a bit noisier and messier.

The best of all grinders are the conical burr grinders. They preserve the aroma of the coffee beans and can grind very fine grounds without any clogging or heating up the grounds. As you might have guessed, these are the most expensive of all grinders.

I prefer Rancilio Rocky, but a cheaper one would be Capresso 560.01 Infinity.