The Coffee Insider Buyers GuidesBreville Coffee Maker 2020 Buyer’s GuideNovember 12, 2019Breville is a major player in the coffee maker business and for good reason. They make a number of really good machines. We are also finishing up individual reviews for each of these products and will publish them all shortly. Breville is a good company with solid design, manufacturing and support. We have covered Breville […]... Read more...2020 Nespresso Pixie Buyers GuideNovember 7, 2019Breville vs DeLonghi Nespresso Pixie Espresso makers The Nespresso Pixie is a nice little pod based machine. It has a metallic body, it is small and compact, inexpensive (at least the machine is) and brews very good espresso. So why are there Pixies from for Breville and DeLonghi and which should you buy? Spoiler…it is […]... Read more...Breville vs Delonghi 2020 Comparison Buyers GuideNovember 4, 2019Four Breville vs Delonghi Matchups Breville vs Delonghi is a great rivalry in espresso makers. They compete at most price points and sell in many of the same stores. Both are global appliance makers and their espresso divisions benefit from world class designers and marketing. On paper they may seem to have a lot on […]... Read more...20 Best Super Automatic Espresso Machines of 2020October 28, 20192020 Reviews Rating the 20 Best Super Automatic Espresso Machines These 2020’s 20 Best Super Automatic Espresso Machines. Each of these models was reviewed and their scores are included. Older models were reevaluated and scored against the best new models. Our top tier models are received high or perfect scores on all categories. These include […]... Read more...2020 JURA Buyers Guide [UPDATE]October 22, 2019Comparison of GIGA 6 vs Z8 vs J90 Our 2020 JURA Buyers Guide compares three of the best rated models we have reviewed from JURA. With top rated machines ranging from under $2000 to almost $6000 how do you decide what is and what is not worth paying for? JURA makes outstanding products with some […]... Read more...Mr. Coffee Thermal Coffee Maker GuideOctober 14, 2019Comparison Buyer’s Guide With the popular Mr. Coffee thermal coffee maker no longer available new it is a good time to look at their alternatives. What is a thermal coffee maker? When we call a coffee maker a thermal coffee maker what we mean is that it is designed to work only with an insulated, […]... Read more... Espresso Machine Reviews ReviewsDeLonghi ECAM22110SBNovember 9, 2019DeLonghi Magnifica XS ECAM22110SB Review for 2020 Our DeLonghi Magnifica XS ECAM22110SB review is part of our Magnifica Buyers Guide for 2020. So we take a look at a big seller with a really long name. The ECAM22110SB has 4 stars on Amazon and is an Amazon Choice award winner (which is based on popularity and reviews). But we do not recommend it because, the ECAM22110SB is a lot to pay for what is really just a semi-automatic espresso machine. At $725, This is not a good price point to buy a DeLonghi Magnifica. As they start to add on features into the XS ECAM22110SB, that they don’t offer in their $500-range machines, DeLonghi starts to make compromises in other areas. As a result, the ECAM22110SB is where DeLonghi starts to fall farther behind the better Gaggia, Saeco, Miele and JURA models. The DeLonghi ECAM22110SB is a well designed and compact machine, like every De’Longhi. It is only 9.4 inches by 17.0 by 13.8 and weighs 20.1 pounds. In that small space they provide a lot of capacity. Including a full 60 ounce water tank, 8.8 ounce whole bean bin and a large drip tray and storage for 14 spend coffee ground pucks. Most DeLonghi models have their nice rotary control and the ECAM22110SB adds a small but nice display which makes it easier to use than the DeLonghi ESAM3300. DeLonghi ECAM22110SB DeLonghi Magnifica XS ECAM22110SB Review Attractive, and available in both silver or black, the DeLonghi ESAM3300 makes only 5 drinks, espresso, cappuccino, latte, water and American, It does make long espresso drinks with one touch which is better than the ESAM3300 Brewing Features The Magnifica ECAM22110SB XS has good brewing for the price level. It has a 15-bar pump, which is good but available across the Magnifica price points. We don’t like that it has a single Thermoblock although it heats up in 60 seconds which is good. The ECAM22110SB has 4 temperature controls does allow you to adjust for many broader ranges of types of beans than the ESAM3300, which doesn’t have that feature. For anyone that wants to make multiple quality, milk-based drinks in a single sitting, we recommend never to buy a single Thermoblock system. The Thermoblock is what has to heat the water and the steam for the milk frothing. Thermoblock’s heat water as needed and need time in between to reheat water. So, if you make them back to back then you get inconsistent temperature. At a little more money, you get double boiler systems which is what commercial machines use. This will provide consistent temperature and is noticeably better. Grinding The DeLonghi Magnifica XS ECAM22110SB seems to have the same grinder as the other Magnificas. So, on a $450 ESAM3300 you get ap pretty good grinder that surprisingly has 13 settings. At this price point is doesn’t stand out and it just par for the level. Microfoam We do not recommend buying any DeLonghi Magnifica that does not have their LatteCrema System. The manual steam wand that come with the DeLonghi ECAM22110SB is just not good enough, especially at this price range. For that reason alone, we would recommend upgrading to a Gaggia Anima Prestige or waiting for pricing on the Gaggia Cadorna Milk. Maintenance & Cleaning DeLonghi does a good job of making it’s models easy to clean. The Magnifica XS ECAM22110SB was not designed with as much thought to long term maintenance and is, essentially, on the high end of machines you probably throw out when it stops working. This is one example of where companies like JURA and Gaggia demonstrate they are focused more on long term use and that may lead to a lower total cost of ownership over the long run. DeLonghi Magnifica XS ECAM22110SB Review Conclusion Unfortunately, this price range is the gangly adolescent of the automatic espresso machine world. Products in this range generally have more things going for it than a $500 of so espresso machine butnot enough to be a lifetime purchase and automated daily use appliance. For that reason, we suggest not buying the Magnifica ECAM22110SB and looking instead at a Gaggia Anima Prestige or waiting for pricing on the Gaggia Cadorna Milk. Magnifica XS ECAM22110SB Specifications Dimensions (l x w x h inches): 9.4 x 17.0 x 13.8Weight (Lbs): 20.1Rated voltage/Frequency (V~Hz): 110/120Input power (W): 1250Color: Silver and BlackAroma control: YesAuto shutOFF: YesBeans container capacity: 8.8 ozCappuccino system: YesCoffee grounds container: 14 single espresso, 7 doubleUses ground coffee: YesCup holder: YesDescaling, cleaning and rinsing program: YesMaximum cup height: cup height 3.5″ to 5.5″Energy saving function: YesNew silent grinder with 13 settings: YesPower supply switch: YesProgrammable water hardness: YesPump pressure (bar): 15Rapid Steam: YesRemovable drip tray with level indicator: YesRemovable infuser unit: YesRemovable water reservoir: YesSelection for 1 cup: YesSelection for 2 cups: YesStand-by function: YesWater filter: Yes... DeLonghi Magnifica ECAM23460SNovember 9, 2019ECAM23460S Review 2020 Update Our DeLonghi ECAM23460S Review has been updated for 2020 as part of our 2020 DeLonghi Magnifica Buyer’s Guide. Our updated reviews include reevaluating models that have been on the market and comparing them against new models like the Gaggia Cadorna line. For more information on which DeLonghi models are the best, take a look at our 2020 list of the best super automatic espresso machines, which the ECAM23260SB made but this model did not. At around $993 the ECAM23460S is competing against other, true super automatics. Given that we do not recommend it. It is a good product, but there are better ones. Like other DeLonghi models, the ECAM23460S is attractive looking and well designed. It is surprisingly compact at 17 by 9.4 by 13.4 inches. It also weighs only 9 pounds. This is amazingly light and they did pack a lot of capacity into that. The warming plate on top of the machine works well and still fits under most cabinets. This includes a full sized, 8.8 oz whole bean storage bin and a spent grounds container large enough for 14 pucks (pads of used grounds). It is also easy to fill and the cleaning is easy and fast. ECAM23460 Magnifica De’Longhi Magnifica ECAM23460 Review for 2 Brewing Features Like all other DeLonghi’s, the ECAM23460S has the basics locked down. It has a 15 bar pump but no manual temperature control, unlike models like the ECAM22110SB. You can choose between 5 strength levels and it brews one or two cups. Grinding As we pointed out in our Magnifica ESAM3300 review, most of the Magnificas seem to have the same grinder. So, for the ESAM3300 you get a surprisingly good grinder with a sub-$500 machines that has 13 settings. But, for at the ECAM22110SB price range this means it is pretty unremarkable. Microfoam We wouldn’t buy any DeLonghi that doesn’t have their LatteCrema System. It is the automatic system for heating, steaming and frothing milk and you need it to make cappuccinos and lattes or just for steaming milk. Maintenance & Cleaning All the Magnifica’s are easy to clean and the DeLonghi ECAM23460S is too. You can remove the infuser unit, which is one thing you need to do for long term maintenance. It does include an automatic decalcification indicator lights lets you know when it’s time to clean the machine However, many Gaggia and JURA models seem like they are designed with long term ownership in mind and, with the ECAM23460S it feels like more of a side thought. DeLonghi Magnifica ECAM23460S Review Summary Our DeLonghi Magnifica ECAM23460S review rates the ECAM23460S a “Do Not Buy.” While the Delonghi ECAM23260SB Magnifica did make our 20 Best Super Espresso Maker list, the ECAM23460S did not. For better results, more features and better long term ownership consider looking at the Gaggia Cadorna line or maybe a Gaggia Anima Prestige. ECAM23260SB Specifications Dimensions (l x w x h inches): 17 x 9.4 x 13.4Weight (Lbs): 9Rated voltage/Frequency (V~Hz): 120~60Input power (W): 1450Color: SilverAroma control: YesAudio Signal: YesAutomatic cleaning: YesAuto shutOFF: YesBeans container capacity: 250Cappuccino System cleaning indicator: YesCoffee grounds container: 14Uses ground coffee: YesCup holder: YesDe’Longhi LatteCrema System : YesDescaling, cleaning and rinsing program: YesDisplay: Text DisplayEnergy saving function: YesMaximum cup height: 86/142New silent grinder with 13 settings: YesPower supply switch: YesProgrammable switch-on: YesProgrammable water hardness: YesPump pressure (bar): 15Removable drip tray with level indicator: YesRemovable infuser unit: YesRemovable water reservoir: YesSelection for 1 cup: YesSelection for 2 cups: YesStand-by function: YesWater filter: Yes... Delonghi Magnifica ESAM3300 ReviewNovember 9, 2019Inexpensive Up Front But Consider The Total Cost of Ownership Our Delonghi Magnifica ESAM3300 review is part of our Delonghi Magnifica Buyer’s Guide which you can check out for more reviews and a summary. The Delonghi Magnifica ESAM3300 is a super automatic espresso maker that should be considered an entry level in that category. For the price, you get a solid entry level machine. It is easy to understand why it is a Amazon’s Choice product, with over 1270 reviews averaging four stars and sells for about $489. But, it is best for limited use and you should consider your total cost of ownership before buying. That’s why we gave this Magnifica a tentative ‘buy’ rating and suggest you consider upgrading to a higher class of model or look at the Gaggia Brera, which came in #18 on our 2020 list of the Best Super Automatic Espresso Machines. Simple To Learn and To Use The ESAM3300 includes DeLonghi’s easy-to-use rotary and push button control panel with programmable menu settings The Delonghi Magnifica ESAM3300 has some simple programmability, limited adjustments, basic automation, solid coffee brewing and adequate milk steaming and frothing. Good At Everything Great At Nothing Magnifica ESAM 3300 Big Seller, Great Ratings But There Are Better Choices It brews one or two cups. The brewing is ok and for most types of beans it brews good tasting espresso. It comes pre-programmed with only five drink settings – espresso, cappuccino, latte, hot water and Americano. One of the real questions is do you plan to make this a substitute for going out to coffee shops? If you are going to have daily espressos and especially if you have multiple daily milk-based espresso drinks you should consider a different product. It isn’t the best of anything, but you can make solid drinks out of it. But if you will go to a coffee shop because the quality is better, or it is more convenient than using this then consider going a different route. What’s The Real Cost of A Daily Espresso Drink? The most expensive thing in espresso drinks is not the machine and it isn’t the coffee it is buying the drinks retail at a coffee shop. A daily $5 drink at Starbucks is over $9,000 over 5 years. Yet, people balk at spending $900 to $1500 on a true super automatic because they think it is too expensive. A better, true super automatic provides one button, simple, consistent high quality, often better than a barista will provide. Just the milk preparation and cleanup of a machine like this is enough to dissuade get many people considering hitting a drive through instead. The Delonghi Magnifica ESAM3300 has less automation than most systems. So, it has an autoshut off but no auto on feature. It also doesn’t indicate when the system needs to be cleaned. The ESAM3300 takes about 75 seconds to heat where many other machines, like the ECAM22110SB, heats up in 60 seconds. Delonghi Magnifica ESAM3300 Updated 2020 review with recommendations and pricing Brewing Features The basic espresso brewing of the Delonghi Magnifica ESAM3300 is will make solid enough drinks if you are not much of an aficionado or don’t want to get experiment too much with your choice of beans or settings. It does have a 15bar pump which is what more expensive machines have. And it will brew two cups simultaneously. However, it has only a single Thermoblock to heat both water and milk. And, while it is fast, you cannot expect to make several espresso drinks, and especially brew several drinks and froth milk quickly and to maintain consistently high water temperature. Grinding The ESAM3300’s has a better grinder than I would expect given the rest of the machine. And, it does have 13 settings which is more than I would expect at this price range. I think they may have simply used the same grinder across several Magnifica models as part of their “Direct-to-Brew” products. Microfoam The ESAM3300 does not come with The De’Longhi LatteCrema System which is their system for competing against the better super automatics like you see from JURA or Gaggia. DeLonghi calls their manual steam wand the “Cappuccino System.” It produces adequate temperature and steam for making good foam but it never seems to rise to the level of true microfoam. Maintenance & Cleaning Like any other appliance there are espresso machines you use until they wear out and then discard. And, there are machines you can use for a decade or much longer. We really don’t think machine of this level is intended to be maintained by the owner. Cleaning isn’t as easy as it is with other machines either. This feels like a nice machine you should get several years use out of and then replace. Consider that when making a choice because a top quality machine looks better, is easier to use and clean, makes better drinks and, we believe will last a lot longer too. Delonghi Magnifica ESAM3300 Review If you are a specific kind of espresso drinking, making occasional espresso drinks and don’t mind a more manual setup and cleanup and if you don’t have very high standards this is a fine machine. If there is any hope that by using this daily you will skip a trip to the coffee shop then you will be better off in every way, including quality, ease of use and long-term total cost of ownership, in upgrading. For some suggestions, especially the Gaggia Cadorna line or the Brera, check out our list of the 20 Best Super Automatic Espresso Machines. Magnifica ESAM Specifications 11.0 x 15.3 x 14.423.2 pounds8.8 oz bean capacity14 Puck spent grounds 60 oz water tank5 pre-programmed drink choices – espresso, cappuccino, latte, water and AmericanoTakes about 75 seconds to heat vs the ECAM22110SB heats up in 60 seconds Delonghi Magnifica ESAM3300 review... Nespresso Pixie by De’LonghiNovember 7, 2019DeLonghi’s Nespresso Pixie EN125S Review The Nespresso Pixie by De’Longhi is a great machine but you may have read our Breville Nespresso Pixie review and be confused. In short, as we wrote in our 2020 Nespresso Pixie guide, they are the same machine. Although Breville and DeLonghi are both appliance manufacturers, neither one builds the Nespresso Pixie. Nespresso owns the name and technology, outsources manufacturing to a large Swiss manufacturer named Eugster/Frismag and then Breville and DeLonghi put their names on it, distribute, sell and service them. Nespresso Pixie Pricing They are usually priced similarly but lately the Nespresso Pixie by De’Longhi has been available cheaper and we found this great bundle for about $40 less than the Breville labeled Pixie. Costs of Nespresso Pods We assume you drink at least one espresso or milk based espresso drink a day. As we detailed in our Breville Nespresso Pixie review, any home drink is cheaper than ordering out. The difference in just a year can be a savings of $1000 or more. However, pod systems like the Nespresso Pixie will always cost at least 2x as much as buying your own coffee of grounds. And you have much less coffee to choose from. 19-bar high pressure pump Simple to use, no cleanupEasy to maintainShould last a few years24 ounce tankHolds 10 spent podsNespresso Pods are $.70 to $1.00 per drink To us, exploring the world of coffee shares some of the fun of exploring whisky, cigars, oysters, chocolate or wine. With all of these there are rich histories and the geography and the way you pair them with other things really adds to the enjoyment. If you just do not care about that and want a consistent, good quality espresso then the Nespresso Pixie is a great choice. If you want milk based drinks that are as good or better than a barista then you are not going to get it with any pod machine. Over the long run, between the cost of pods and having to replace a machine more often than a top super automatic espresso machine, it isn’t really clear that a pod machine will save you any money and probably will cost more.... Breville Nespresso Pixie ReviewNovember 6, 2019Breville-Nespresso Pixie BEC420TTN1AUC1 The Breville Nespresso Pixie is an espresso machine, marketed as a coffee maker that doesn’t require you to know how to make either. The Pixie is simple, convenient, inexpensive and neat it is easy to see the appeal. Simple pop in a pod and press a button. In less than a minute you get excellent espresso. One of the benefits of a Pixie is the pod system but, in some ways it is also the main drawback. Pixie By Breville & DeLonghi As we explained in our Nespresso Pixie guide, this same machine is marketed by both Breville and by DeLonghi as the Nespresso Pixie by DeLonghi. Only the support and warranty and the price differ. Pod System Tradeoffs Because it is designed for simple use, you can’t program and customize your drinks the way you can with an automatic espresso machine. You are limited to buying Nespresso pods. Many of them are very good but you are still limited. Imagine buying a wine bottle opener that only opens wine from one vineyard. Breville-Nespresso Pixie BEC420TTN1AUC1 19-bar high pressure pump Simple to use, no cleanup Easy to maintain Should last a few years 24 ounce tank Pod only system is $.70 to $1.00 per drinkCheck latest price on Amazon For espresso lovers, the Nespresso is a far better choice than Keurigs because it makes real espresso and the Keurig is really a coffee maker. The machine itself is relatively cheap at about $229. But if you care about cost then consider the total costs of the alternatives. The Real Cost of a Daily Espresso Drink Great espresso drinks with beautiful crema People put too much weight into the cost of an espresso machine. Nothing is more expensive than a daily trip to a coffee shop. A double espresso at a coffee shop probably costs $2.50 and a cappuccino may cost you $3 to $4. So a daily trip to your barista can cost $900 to $1400 a year. Pixie Pod Machines Vs Super Automatics For comparison’s sake, a top notch, one-touch super automatic espresso machine will last for years, looks beautiful and will automatically make you everything from espressos to latte’s can cost $800-$1500. Nespresso Pixie Pod Costs Buying a pod machine is a lot like buying a razor. The cost is in the blades. Nespresso pods vary in price from $.70 to about $1.00 each. So, a year’s worth of Nespresso can save you $400 to $1000 a year over ordering out. Cost per Drink from an Automatic Espresso Machine A pound of coffee beans makes about 32 double shots. That comes out to $.25 to $.50 or about $100 to $180 a year. Honestly this is a pretty good reason to consider a super automatic machine which makes (often) better drinks than any barista and skip a pod machine. Keurig vs Nespresso Pixie Nespresso and Keurig are often compared but they are really very different. Nespresso is an actual espresso machine. It expresses coffee under high pressure. In fact, one unusual thing about Nespresso is it actually uses higher pressure than professional or high end espresso makers. Where as most espresso machines, including all the best super automatic espresso machines, force steam through the grounds using a 15-bar pump, the Nespresso uses a 19-bar pump. This higher force makes for faster brews and real espresso flavor. However you wouldn’t use that pressure with a traditional espresso machine because many grinds wouldn’t produce good espresso under that pressure. The Breville Nespresso Pixie model BEC420TTN is a very good machine with an interesting back story. Nespresso is not a manufacturer and Breville doesn’t make this espresso machine. Nespresso outsources manufacturing to the biggest coffee machine maker you never heard of, Eugster/Frismag in Switzerland. Then it licenses these machines to be marketed or sold by Krups, Breville, DeLonghi and others. Should I buy a Nespresso Pixie? In a word, maybe. If you want the simplest way to get great espresso at home then a Nespresso. If you love milk based espresso drinks then you will not get them at the same quality as your barista from pod machines. Over time, a pod machine like the Nespresso Pixie costs a lot less than ordering out but more than a high end, automatic espresso machine.... DeLonghi Magnifica 2020 Buyers GuideNovember 2, 2019The DeLonghi Magnifica is not a single machine it is a line of espresso makers. They are very popular, and they are solid, well designed and engineered pieces. Should I buy a DeLonghi Espresso Machine? However, popularity of DeLonghi Magnifica has a lot to do with the fact the De’Longhi is a multi-billion-dollar global, small appliance manufacturer which mean their name is much better known, at least in the US and Canada, than brands like Gaggia and JURA which are known predominantly for espresso machines. However, popularity of DeLonghi Magnifica has a lot to do with the fact the De’Longhi is a multi-billion-dollar global, small appliance manufacturer which mean their name is much better known, at least in the US and Canada, than brands like Gaggia and JURA which are known predominantly for espresso machines. Click to see The 20 Best Super Automatic Espresso Machines of 2020 A $5 daily coffee shop drink will cost you $7305 over 4 years A $5 daily coffee shop drink will cost you $7305 over 4 years. Yes, I included a leap year and counted every holiday. You should want to use your espresso machine every day. If not, then you are not getting your money’s worth. People often buy too cheap a manual or inexpensive automatic espresso machine and then spend $5 a day going to Starbucks because they like the quality and convenience of that more. The less expensive Delonghi Magnifica models often make good introductions to espresso makers. However, we usually argue against this approach. Unlike other small appliance makers, there is a huge variation between espresso maker models in how much work, maintenance and cleanup each one requires. Also, the quality of a brewed espresso or cappuccino depends on a lot more factors than, we suspect, how effectively your toaster oven heats up a frozen pizza. Thermoblock vs. Boiler espresso machines All the models below are Thermoblock systems. Sometimes called “Thermocoil” these heats the water when you need it to express espresso or steam and froth your milk. The advantage of these systems is they do not take as long to heat the water as a boiler. However, they don’t get the water as hot and the difference in the brewing is noticeable. Better end home and all commercial systems use boilers to heat water and milk. We wouldn’t buy one that didn’t include a double boiler because you want minimal wait and consistent temperature when making milk drinks. You may pay a few hundred dollars more up front for a beautiful, double boiler super automatic than a manual or Thermoblock system, but you may find you get a lot more enjoyment and use and that could save you a lot of money too. Better models are designed to be used for years, maybe a decade or more. So, more effort is put into designing them to be easy to maintain and clean. Think of this like a good pair of classically designed shoes that you resole instead of throwing out. 20 Best Super Automatic Espresso Machines Review our 20 Best Super Automatic Espresso Machines of 2020 list. Four DeLonghi espresso machines lade the list. These include the ECAM28465M which took #4 on the list and the Delonghi ECAM45760B which came in at #9. Of the Delonghi Magnifica models on the list below, only two made the Top 20 list. The Delonghi ECAM23260SB Magnifica came in at #13 and the De’Longhi ESAM04110S Magnifica came in at #19. Delonghi Eletta ECAM44660B Review If you are interested in Delonghi espresso machines. Read our 2020 Delonghi Eletta ECAM44660B review. You can also look at that article for details and pros and cons of that model if you are considering it. DeLonghi ECAM23210B Compact Magnifica S Review DeLonghi Magnifica S ECAM23210B Compact Review for 2020 Price: $949.99 Stainless SteelDual ThermoblockEasy cleanup 19.84 pounds DeLonghi Magnifica S Amazon Reviews 3.5 stars on 69 reviews The DeLonghi Magnifica ECAM23210B Compact S Super-Automatic Espresso Machine is an OK machine but there are better options. Read our Gaggia Anima Prestige review to see why we would recommend it over the ECAM23210B. The Anima Prestige is cheaper, makes better espresso and steams better microfoam than the DeLonghi ECAM23210B Compact Magnifica S Delonghi ECAM23260SB Magnifica Review Delonghi ECAM23260SB Magnifica Price: $818.49 Plastic25.89 lbs.Dual ThermoblockManual Steam Frother + LatteCrema System60oz water capacity8.8oz bean capacity Delonghi ECAM23260SB Magnifica Amazon Reviews 3.5 Stars on 95 Reviews We Gave It 4 Stars But Rated Others Higher The DeLonghi ECAM23260SB Magnifica made our Top 20 at #13. However, for less than $100 more you can get a Gaggia Anima Prestige which is a much better machine. It has one-touch settings for 6 drinks; Drip Style Coffee, Single Espresso, Long Coffee, Hot Water, Cappuccino, Latte macchiato De’Longhi ECAM22110S Magnifica XS Review DeLonghi ECAM22110S Magnifica XS Review Price: $746.98 Single Thermoblock Rotary Control with DisplayManual Steam Wand60oz water capacity8.8oz bean capacity DeLonghi ECAM22110S Magnifica XS Amazon Reviews Amazon Gave it 4 Stars De’Longhi ECAM22110S Magnifica XS Fully Automatic Espresso Machine with Manual Cappuccino System has great scores on Amazon, but this in our opinion is because it targets entry level consumers. For that reason, we believe that the Gaggia Anima Prestige is a much better machine and worth the premium. De’Longhi ESAM04110S Magnifica Review De’Longhi ESAM04110S Magnifica Price: $512 13 setting Burr grinderSingle ThermoblockManual Steam Wand11.2 x 16.5 x 14.4 inches26.9 pounds De’Longhi ESAM04110S Magnifica Amazon Reviews Amazon Gave it 4.5 Stars We Gave it 4 Stars But Rated Others Higher The De’Longhi ESAM04110S Magnifica earned a place on our 2020 Top 20 Super Automatic Espresso Machine List at #19. But, while it is a good machine, instead consider looking at our Gaggia Anima review. The Anima made our top 20 list at #15. Sure, the Anima costs a little more than the De’Longhi ESAM04110S Magnifica. But the Anima is a much better machine across the board and worth the premium. The DeLonghi ESAM04110S has the same 60oz water capacity as the other DeLonghi models on this list. However, the whole bean bin is only 7.1oz. so the other models hold almost a quarter more beans. Surprisingly, this model has slightly faster Thermoblock startup than the more expensive De’Longhi Magnifica ECAM22110SB and ECAM23260SB models. DeLonghi Magnifica ESAM3300 Read our full Magnifica ESAM3300 review for a full review and description. DeLonghi Magnifica ESAM3300 Read Our Full Review ESAM3300 Received a Tentative ‘Buy’ Nice lookingSimple to learnEasy to useRotary ControlGood GrinderTop Customer Reviews A solid performer that is lacking the heating elements, milk system, programmability or automation to be great. Read Our DeLonghi Magnifica ESAM3300 Review Magnifica ECAM22110SB ECAM22110SB $699 Read our 2020 ECAM22110SB Review 3.5 Stars 72/100 A well designed machine, compact but not ideal for multiple drinks, milk based drinks or long term regular use. Read out full review for details and suggested alternatives. November DeLonghi Magnifica 2020 Buyers Guide The DeLonghi Magnifica is a good line of products. But, we believe that for every solid, DeLonghi automatic espresso machine we have identified a better alternative.... Best Bean to Cup Coffee Machines in 2020October 31, 2019What is a Bean to Cup Coffee Machine? The best bean to cup coffee machines have to do many things really well. So, “Bean to Cup” means that you press a single button and the machine grinds the beans, brews the coffee. The fact is this terms are not standardized at all. “Bean to cup” generally refers to a small household appliance that stores whole, roasted coffee beans, water and in many cases, milk. What is a Bean to Cup Coffee Maker? More often than not this terms means the same thing as Bean to Cup Coffee Machine. Some people prefer this term because the word “maker” makes it clear that it is a drip brewer. Good bean to cup coffee makers with grinders can range from about $70 to maybe $200. Some people use these terms to refer to both drip brewers and automatic and semi automatic espresso machines. So, for these people “Bean to Cup” is an umbrella term for both types. This is confusing. And no, strong drip coffee is not espresso. Bean to cup coffee machines cost a lot less than espresso machines but are only for people who only want to make drip brew coffee drinks. Most of them grind beans and brew but do not have any milk system. So, you add milk or creamer separately. What is a Bean to Cup Espresso Machine? “Bean to Cup Espresso Machine” is usually used to refer to any automatic or super automatic espresso machine. These store beans and water, and have a built-in carafe of milk or a milk cup or carafe connected by a straw. They are fundamentally different than coffee makers because they express espresso they don’t drip brew coffee. Many of these machines will make cappuccinos and lattes, and often up to a dozen other drinks with the touch of a button. In some ways you have to froth your milk and in some cases the machine does it all automatically. Automatic espresso machines can range from a couple of hundred dollars to maybe $1000. Really good super automatic espresso machines range from $500 to $6000 and much more but come with a simulated daily trip to heaven included. Best Bean to Cup Coffee Makers in 2020 In this category we are going to highlight our favorites coffee makers that store and grind whole beans and drip brew coffee all with the touch of a button. Best Bean to Cup Coffee Machine under $100 for 2020 Cuisinart DGB-550BK $72.08 12 cup, ground or whole beans Click to Read Reviews 5 Stars 91/100 score Features 24H ProgramBrew-pause featureAuto shutoff to 4 hoursBurr Grinder Cuisinart DGB-550BK Best Bean to Cup Coffee Machine $100 to $200 for 2020 Gevi Coffee maker maker510 $139.96 10 cup capacity Click to Read Reviews 5 Stars 96/100 Score Features Burr grinder Regular and bold brewingProgrammable on, time brew & auto shut off 30 s Brew-pause function Gevi Coffee maker maker510 Best Bean to Cup Coffee Machine with Thermal Carafe for 2020 Capresso Coffee Maker Model: 488.05 Team Pro Plus Thermal Carafe Click to Read Reviews 5 Stars Features 10 cups brewing8oz bean storageThermal carafeOily bean setting3 grinder finenesss settings Capresso Coffee Maker 488.05 Best Bean to Cup Espresso Machines If you like espresso and espresso milk drinks also check out our Espresso Machine 2020 Buying Guide. In our opinion the use of the word “machine” should only be used with an espresso machine that uses pressurized steam and water to express espresso. The word “maker” should refer to a machine that brews drip coffee. If you disagree leave a comment and change our minds. I swear we are reasonable. These are our 2020 best bean to cup coffee machines. All of them are great coffee makers and store and grind whole beans and drip brew coffee all with the touch of a button. You can real more coffee reviews and buyers guides on our Coffee Maker 2020 Buyers Guide.... Delonghi ElettaOctober 29, 20192020 Updated Delonghi Eletta Review ECAM44660B At The Coffee Insider, we review new espresso and coffee makers and we reevaluate favorite machines to compare them to current standards. Sometimes this means that models get a lower review in 2020 than they did when they were released. This is true of the Delonghi Eletta model ECAM44660B. The Eletta costs just under $2000. It delivers great design and a lot of features for the value. But the competition is very tough in the $1500-2000 price range and we concluded that there are better choices. For comparison, look over our 20 Best Super Automatic Espresso Machines of 2020 list. Specifically, the Gaggia Babila and JURA J90 IMPRESSA are better choices and can be bought a little cheaper. About Delonghi De’Longhi (aka Delonghi) is headquartered in Treviso, Italy. The company was founded in 1902 by the De’ Longhi family. The company is a multi-billion-dollar manufacturer food prep and cooking appliances, and home cleaning. 2020 Delonghi Eletta Review With the Eletta ECAM44660B, De’Longhi delivers solid results and good value. It has a lot of positive design elements and packs a lot into a small space for this level of automatic espresso machine. It has all the features you would like in a machine of this class, as do its competitors. It does everything very well. But we didn’t find anything we thought it did best in class. The controls and screen look really dated, especially when compared to what companies are going with newer models like the Gaggia Cadorna line of automatic espresso machines. Since it is a Delonghi it is well designed and made. It has a compact design. The Eletta measures 18.4 x 14.2 x 10.2 inches and weighs about 24 pounds. Delonghi Eletta ECAM44660B Gaggia Babila made our Top 20 List JURA J90 IMPRESSA is a better buy In that relatively small form, you get very good storage capacity. The Eletta ECAM44660B holds 14 ounces (400 g) of whole beans, has a 67-ounce removable water tank and stores 14 pucks of used coffee ground container. All of these are very good. The coffee spouts adjust from 3.5 inches to 5.5 inches. However, both the Gaggia Babila and JURA J90 IMPRESSA espresso makers look better, have nicer finish, brewed better and produce better milk foam. Brewing Features Our 2020 Delonghi Eletta Review concludes that the ECAM44660B brews well but not exceptional. For most beans and brews you may not be able to tell the difference. But for the same money you can buy a great machine that will do better. Grinding The Delonghi Eletta Grinder has 13 settings. That’s quite a few. It is pretty quiet and does a solid job with both course and finer grinds. Microfoam and Milk Steaming Both the Gaggia and JURA lines produce better milk foam. Our tests showed the De’Longhi LatteCrema System to make good, but a bit sticky, foam and not the silky kind of microfoam that everyone just loves. In any case, it warmed and steamed milk quickly enough. Maintenance & Cleaning The Eletta is reasonably easy to clean and maintain. But, the nozzle inside the milk carafe is harder to clean than we would like to see. 2020 Delonghi Eletta Review ECAM44660B The Delonghi Eletta is a solid, well designed and efficient little machines. However, its controls are dated, and it doesn’t have the drink options that other automatic espresso machines have. It does everything well but nothing exceptional. Our 2020 Delonghi Eletta Review compared the system to the better machines available and concludes that you would be better off choosing a comparably priced model from JURA or Gaggia. So, you can’t go wrong buying the Eletta, but you can go ‘right’ choosing a Gaggia Babila and JURA J90 IMPRESSA instead. Delonghi Eletta Specifications Dimensions (l x w x h inches): 18.4 x 14.2 x 10.2Weight (Lbs): 24.2Rated voltage/Frequency (V~Hz): 110/120~50/60Input power (W): 1250Color: Black“LONG” coffee function: YesAroma control: YesAudio Signal: YesAutomatic cleaning: YesAuto shutoff: YesBeans container capacity: 14 oz (400g)Cappuccino system: YesCappuccino System cleaning indicator: YesCoffee grounds container: 14 single/7 double espressosUses ground coffee: YesCup holder: YesDe’Longhi LatteCrema System: YesDescaling, cleaning and rinsing program: YesMaximum cup height: 3.5 – 5.5 inchesDisplay: 2-line with iconsEnergy saving function: YesNew silent grinder with 13 settings: YesPower supply switch: YesProgrammable switch-on: YesProgrammable water hardness: YesPump pressure (bar): 15Rapid Steam: YesDrip tray with level indicator: Removable Infuser unit: Removable Water reservoir: Removable Selection for 1 cup: YesSelection for 2 cups: YesStand-by function: Yes... Cadorna Milk vs Velasca Prestige [2020 Review]October 27, 2019About the Gaggia Cadorna Line Our Cadorna Milk vs Velasca Prestige comparison is also our Cadorna Milk review. In our Cadorna Buyer’s Guide we outlined the new Cadorna line, which includes four models. In order from highest to lowest price those models are the Cadorna Prestige, Cadorna Milk, Cadorna Plus and Cadorna Style. It appears that the purpose of the Cadorna line is to update Gaggia’s best models and combine them under a single product line. All four of them made our 20 Best Super Automatic Espresso Machines for 2020 list. So, we expect that the Cadorna line will mean the end of the Anima, Brera and Velasca band names, at least. Top 20 Super AutomaticsClick to See the List We also recently wrote that the top of the line Cadorna Prestige is not meant to be comparable to the Accademia or the Bilba. Although the Cadorna Prestige is a good product and a good value for a single boiler automatic espresso machine. Cadorna Milk vs Velasca Prestige: Many great things in common When comparing the Cadorna Milk vs Velasca Prestige we notice how much these two models have in common. Both the Cadorna Milk vs Velasca Prestige are excellent at all the core functions of grinding, brewing coffee, steaming and foaming milk. They are both well engineered and designed. Both are single, quick heat boiler systems. Both will brew two cups simultaneously. Both have great pre-infusion. Both the Cadorna Milk vs Velasca Prestige have similar capacities and settings for grinding, coffee temperature, milk storage, coffee bean storage, puck capacity and more. The Cadorna Milk is a slightly taller espresso machine. But it is also a little shallower than the Velasca. The two machines weigh just about the same. They come with the same accessories although the Cadorna’s are updated a bit. Cadorna Milk Review: Significant Differences While the Cadorna Milk and the Velasca Prestige have a lot of things in common, the differences between them tell you a lot. The most obvious differences between the Cadorna Milk and the Velasca Prestige are the materials and design. The Velasca Prestige has a more classical, stainless steel appearance. All four Cadornas have a more modern appearance. They are black metal and plastic and the Cadorna Milk has some red trim. Maybe this is Gaggia’s way of saying it thinks the stainless steel look is getting old. Gaggia Cadorna Milk 2020 ReviewComing soon to the US Gaggia RI8263/47 Velasca Prestige Espresso MachineClick the image for current best price The Cadornas have dramatically better touch screens than all of Gaggia’s older models. The Cadorna’s also have more presets than older, comparable Gaggia models. They are also easier and more intuitive to program and customize. But the most important difference is that the Cadorna line are meant to be global products. They are intended to be marketed everywhere. This is why you can choose from 17 languages in the settings. Brewing Features Cadorna Milk vs Velasca Prestige The Cadorna Milk and the Velasca Prestige brew great espresso. Both have a single, quick-heat boiler that does the job you would expect of a product in this price category. The Cadorna Milk has preset programs for 10 drinks and the Velasca Prestige only does 4 one touch plus two others. Both make espresso, espresso lungo, cappuccino, milk froth and hot water. Our Cadorna Milk Review gives it the edge here because it also makes ristretto, Americano, latte macchiato and café au lait. Both have 5-settings in their Optiaroma system which allows you to adjust the amount of grounds in each drink. And, the Cadorna Milk coffee spout raises up a little higher for taller cups. Grinding Both machines have ceramic grinders with 10 settings. Both are easily adjustable and will grind consistently fine espresso grounds. The bypass for the Cadorna is better than the Velasca. I think the Velasca’s bypass door is awkward and will lead to more spilled grounds. Microfoam and Milk Steaming The Cadorna Milk and the Velasca Prestige are the lowest priced models under their respective brand names which emphasize milk drinks. Gaggia doesn’t make a machine that doesn’t brew great coffee and make nearly perfect microfoam. So, as you would expect, both the Cadorna Milk and the Velasca Prestige both have great milk frothing systems and produce great microfoam. I do prefer the Velasca’s placement of the milk carafe over the Capp in Cup System of the Cadorna Milk. But, the Cadorna is a more modern design and both are very good overall. Maintenance & Cleaning The Cadorna Milk and the Velasca Prestige both are easy to clean and maintain. Although the designs and materials are very different, the two machines have similar removeable components for easy cleanup. You can access the brewing systems and filters in both systems easily. They both have very effective automated milk cleaning programs and descaling as well. Cadorna Milk vs Velasca Prestige We were impressed with both machines. When considering the Cadorna Milk vs Velasca Prestige the truth is you can’t really go wrong with either. Ultimately the Cadorna Milk is a good update to the Velasca Prestige. The Cadorna is not yet for sale online in the US but both machines should be comparable in price. We do like the timeless stainless-steel look of the older Gaggia’s. Overall, the Velasca is looking dated, especially next to a Cadorna. So, our Cadorna Milk Review concludes that it is a better automatic espresso machine and a better value. Gaggia Cadorna Milk Velasca Prestige Review for 2020 About Gaggia Gaggia is an Italian based company that focuses mainly on automatic espresso makers. Gaggia has one of the best histories in the business. Achille Gaggia patented the steam expressing coffee maker in 1938. Since then Gaggia has made many, many amazing automatic espresso machines. Cadorna Milk vs Velasca Prestige Specifications Cadorna MilkVelasca PrestigeUer InterfaceFull Color, Rich DisplayLCDBacklit ButtonsYesYesPump15 Bar15 BarPreset Beverages106 (4 one-touch)Preset DrinksRistretto, Espresso, Espresso Lungo, Caffè, Americano, Cappuccino, Latte Macchiato, Cafe’ Au Lait, Frothed Milk, Hot WaterEspresso, Espresso Lungo, Cappuccino, Milk Froth, Baby Cappuccino, Hot WaterAdjustable Coffee LengthYesYesAdjustable Coffee TempYesYesWater Tank1.5L1.5LBrew 2 Cups SimultaneouslyYesYesBoiler Single Stainless Quick HeatSingle Stainless Quick HeatLater Capacity0.5L0.5LMilk SystemCapp In CupMilk CarafeCarafe SizeCarafe Size0.5LAdjustable Milk LengthYesYesRinse CycleAutomaticAutomaticGround Coffe BypassYesYesGaggia Adapting SystemYesYesBean Capacity300G300GSpent Pucks Capacity1010Languages17: IT-EN-DE-FR-ES-PT-NL-PL-RU-EL-RO-HU-DA-BL-CS-SLO-LTDimensions (LxHxD)26 x 38 x 40 cm25,6 x 34 x 44 cmWeight9.3KG9.4KG... Gaggia Anima Prestige Review [2020 Update]October 26, 2019Our Gaggia Anima Prestige Review update for 2020 is our chance to revisit the product. The Anima Prestige RI8762 is a few years old. So, we look at whether it holds up to the competition in 2020. We also recently published an updated, 2020 review of the Gaggia Anima. This is the fourth chapter in our Gaggia Buyers Guide. See other chapters on the new Cadorna line, Accademia and Babila products as well. About Gaggia Selected for our Top 20 Super Automatic Espresso Machines for 2020 Gaggia is an Italian company. It has one of the best histories of innovation and design excellence of any automatic espresso machine manufacturer. It is currently owned by the espresso machine division of Philips, the Dutch multi-national. Gaggia patented the steam driven expressing device in 1938 that was the forebearer of our modern espresso machined. Gaggia Anima Prestige Review Updated Look at the RI8762 for 2020 The Gaggia Anima Prestige is a great machine and a great value. For under $1000 you get excellent core brewing, grinding and milk handling systems. For a single boiler machine, it is a good choice. However, we strongly suggest against any single boiler machine which we will explain. Gaggia’s strength is design. That shows up in the big things but also lots of small decisions that you may not notice right away. For example, they put baffles in the drip tray to reduce water spilling due to is sloshing round when you are emptying the tray. Also, a nice lip on the metal tray cover to reduce coffee that spills on the top of the cover from spilling over the front edge of the machine. It is beautiful and has timeless design and top-quality engineering and finish for a machine at its price level. The anima is a great choice if you decide that you want to keep the price below $1000. Here is why that probably is a mistake. Why a sub-$1000 machine may be a mistake It is easier to make many small purchases than to make a single larger purchase. This is why a $4 Starbucks coffee every day for 2 years will cost over $2900 but many people balk at investing $2000 on an automatic espresso machine that could last for decades. What separates a $500 or $1000 espresso machine from a $2000 or $4000 one? One of the big questions in automated espresso makers is what features are worth paying for and which are not. To me the answer comes down to two things. Quality and ease of use. Buy a Double Boiler Automatic The Anima and the Anima Prestige do most things right. But they are single boiler machines. This means that the stainless-steel boiler. Making a double shot of espresso is one cycle. Steaming and frothing milk is also one cycle. So, if you are going to make a milk drink, or make back to back double espresso drink then you must wait for the Anima’s single boiler to heat back up. It does have a quick heat boiler but it is still an issue. While you wait, your patience ticks along and your first drink cools. Gaggia Anima Prestige RI8762Consider Alternatives We strongly recommend a double boiler system like the JURA J90 Gaggia’s Accademia is also an excellent choice over the Anima Prestige Every day you need to wake up and decide if you are going to use your espresso machine or drive through Starbucks. Manual machines make drinks more inconsistent and less convenient than (a good) barista. Sometimes they make them better. With a good automated machine both those things. A great, double boiler, super automatic espresso machine does everything well and that will keep you out of coffee shops. Brewing Features Like other Gaggia’s, the Anima Prestige RI8762 brews excellent espresso. It is a bean-to-cup espresso machine with automatic milk frothing for cappuccinos, macchiatos and lattes. Its pre-infusion system works well. It has six physical buttons on the outside which includes one-touch, presets dedicated to espresso, espresso lungo, cappuccino and latte macchiato. Its user profiles will remember each person’s preference. And your drinks are customizable with 5 espresso strengths and dosing range of 6.5g to 11.5 grams of ground coffee per batch. This is a good range for coffee strength. You can adjust it using one of the physical buttons on the front of the machine. Most higher end machines will have more coffee temperature settings. This is not just for your drink preference. Each type of espresso drink and type of bean can have a different optimal temperature. The 3 different temperature settings are 177.5 F, 182.9 F and 184.5. Anima Prestige Grinding The Anima Prestige RI8762 has a flat ceramic burr grinder with five settings. This is excellent and all most people would need. Many people would argue that more grinder settings would allow you to optimize to your brew better but for a machine of this class. Generally, that is true. However, our Gaggia Anima Prestige Review concludes that most people would have trouble programming that level of incremental benefits anyway. Microfoam Review Like all Gaggia’s the Anima Prestige handles milk really well. The milk carafe is nicely designed. The RI8762 produces fantastic microfoam. Maintenance & Cleaning The Gaggia the Anima Prestige has good capacities and was designed to be very easy to clean and maintain. The RI8762 has good prompts for its automatic milk cleaning cycle, also. The Prestige has a removable 60 oz water reservoir, which is good. It is accessed from top, left of the machine. It is better to have it more easily removed from the side. It stores 8.8 ounces of coffee beans. This is OK. A better machine will have more than 10 ounces. The Anima Prestige holds 15 pucks which is unexpectedly high and excellent. It does have very easy maintenance. The brew unit is easily accessible from the side for weekly rinsing. Gaggia designed it for easy access to water reservoir and bean hopper. Gaggia Anima Prestige Review 2020 Update As mentioned earlier we do not believe anyone should buy a sub-$1000, single boiler machine in 2020. Unless you know you are never going to make milk-based drinks or more than one double espresso batch in the same session. For less than a year’s worth of Starbucks visits you can buy a JURA J90 IMPRESSA. A Gaggia Accademia is only about $700 more. Both are objectively better machines with a long list of advantages and a better value. Read our J90 review and our Accademia comparison reviews for more. For those who decide a single boiler is fine for them or can’t increase their budget, our Gaggia Anima Prestige Review update concludes with another strong ‘buy’ for the RI876. However, you may also want to look at Gaggia’s new Cadorna line which we reviewed recently. Jura J90 Impressa costs more but is a better value with critical benefits Gaggia Accademia is another double boiler super automatic that we recommend Anima Prestige Specifications LCD Display plus 6 buttons2 color displayMilk Carafe6 preprogrammed drinks with 4 on the physical buttonsPrograms for espresso, espresso lungo, cappuccino, latte macchiato, milk froth and hot waterNo cup warmer15 bar pump’5 level Optiaroma system 5 level grinder settingCeramic burr grinder Gaggia Adapting System 5 levels of coffees strength3 levels of coffee temperatureadjustable milk lengthSingle, stainless steel boilerQuick heat boiler1.8 L water tank0.5 L milk carafe15 puck, spent grounds capacity... Miele CM6350 ReviewOctober 26, 2019The CM6350 is Well Built and Designed But Not Aging Well. Our Miele CM6350 Review for 2020 looks at how it has held up since its release a few years ago. In absolute terms it is a well designed and well built super automatic espresso machine. However we are do not recommend it. The JURA J90 IMPRESSA and Gaggia Accademia are better automated espresso machines for less money. You can read our J90 IMPRESSA review and our Gaggia Accademia reviews for more information on those products. Selected for our Top 20 Super Automatic Espresso Machines for 2020 About Miele Miele is headquartered in Gütersloh in Germany. It was Founded in 1899 and remains family owned. German made so it does look different than the Italian models, which I prefer. The Italian models are also well engineered but I feel like the designs tend to be more classical and hold up better over time. A well-made espresso machine should last for years. This is a good reason to invest in a great one. I prefer to buy from companies that are primarily coffee machine producers. Miele is a conglomerate and espresso machines are simple one of many lines. When you visit their website the espresso makers are listed between the oven hoods and the wine refrigerators. I think this leads to them being a follower on technology but a leader in engineering. You could argue that a larger company has access to better design and manufacturing scale and therefore talent. Miele has won a pile of awards so that’s a fair argument. But I prefer a company where the senior executives think about super automated espresso machines every morning when they wake up and I don’t know if that is true with Miele. Review The Miele CM6350 is a few years old now. When it was released it was a great machine but feels like it is being left behind by other manufacturers. I don’t like the styling. I am partial to the classic look of the Italian designs (and those who copy them). The CM 6350 was meant to have modern styling and that tends not to age well. When the Miele CM6350 was released it was an upgrade on the CM6150. It replaced the 6150’s passive cup warmer with an active cup warmer. Also, they added a double insulated carafe for milk and a waterspout. There were some smaller updated to the trim and a light that illuminated the work area on the front. Great Engineering It is a compact machine. It is 10” wide, a little over 14” tall and less than 17 inches deep. So, it may fit in tight spots where comparable machines cannot. The Miele CM6350 was has overall good capacity. It holds 61 ounces of water, 10.58 ounces of coffee beans and 10 pucks. Some machines I prefer hold a little less water but more coffee beans and coffee pucks. I would like to see the bean and puck capacities be a little higher. It doesn’t store any ground coffee so if anyone in your family prefers grounds, like for decaf, then they have to scoop them for each drink. The Miele CM6350 has four different profiles. Highly programmable user profile, pre-infusion, amount of coffee, amount of milk and temperature. It has a reputation for being able to make very hot drinks and produces excellent foam. Some people like this and I assume if you are bringing your drink a long way and want it still to hot when you get there this is a good thing. But I worry about brewing at too high a temperature which can cause over extraction and a bitter coffee. Brewing Features The Miele is a strong functional machine. It has programmable pre-brewing and is adjustable in the ways that matter. It has programmable coffee strength and grounds volume, water temperature, milk and froth amounts. The spouts are adjustable from 3 1/8” to 5 1/2” which is fine. Miele CM6350 Is a Great Machine. But, it is dated and there are better options The JURA J90 IMPRESSA is a Better Machine and a Better Value The Gaggia Accademia is also a better option than the CM6350. The CM6350 will make one or two cups simultaneously. It comes with pushbutton settings for 6 coffee drinks. Those are ristretto, espresso, coffee, long coffee, cappuccino, caffè latte and latte macchiato. It also has programs for hot milk, milk froth and hot water. This is significantly fewer options than other models. The CM6350 was one of the first super automatic that made a coffee pot will make up to 8 servings in a cycle Grinding The CM6350 has a stainless-steel mill grinder. It has 5 settings. All of this is fine but unremarkable. Microfoam Our Miele CM6350 Review determined that the machine makes excellent foam. It is smooth and silky, and the adjustment levels are a good balance between too far apart and too similar to one another. The self-cleaning system is good, and the milk carafe is good. We would prefer to see an integrated milk system in place of this one and hope to see some improvements in future models. Maintenance & Cleaning Like other well-designed automated espresso machines, maintenance was carefully considered during the design. It is easy to clean, the pieces fit well in a dishwasher changing the filter is easy. Our 2020 Miele CM6350 Review finds the capacity of the machine is more of a mixed bag. The water capacity is good, but 10 pucks of spent grounds is too little for a machine in this class. On the plus side it has a large dip tray which is important because that’s where the waste from the milk cleaning cycle goes. Miele CM6350 vs Jura J90 vs Gaggia Accademia Out Miele CM6350 Review concludes that it is still a well-designed and well-built machine. But unfortunately, that is not enough for it to retain its ‘buy’ recommendation for 2020. It is already looking dated and given the premium prices you should consider an alternative instead. However, you if you want to buy it then buy direct from Miele on their Amazon store. For a little more money, I would get a Gaggia Accademia which recently scored a 91 on our 2020 updated review. An even better choice would be a Jura J90 IMPRESSA which received similarly favorable ‘buy’ recommendation. If it is available in your area, also look at the Gaggia Cadorna Prestige which we recently reviewed. Specifications CM 6150 LOWE — Item 29615010USA Overall Dimensions 10” (251 mm) W x 141/8” (359 mm) H x 163/4” (427 mm) D Main Dispenser Height Dimensions Adjustable: 31/8” – 51/2” (80 – 140 mm) Electrical Requirements 120V, 60Hz, 15A Power Cord Molded NEMA 5-15A plug, 4’ 7” (1.4 m) Pump Pressure Max. 217 psi (15 Bar) Grinder Stainless steel mill Grinder Settings 5 settings Water Reservoir Capacity 61 fl.oz. (1.8 l) Bean Container Capacity 10.58 oz. (300 g) Waste Grounds Container Capacity Max. 10 portions of coffee grounds Ground Coffee Per Serving Shipping Shipping Weight 27 lbs Shipping Dimensions 231/16” W x 171/16” H x 1213/16” L... Gaggia Accademia ReviewOctober 25, 2019Our 2020 Gaggia Accademia Review takes a detailed look at one of Gaggia’s best and most successful automatic espresso machines. With lots of good choices available, the critical questions is should you buy the Accademia 1003380 over other great models? For more information on how it stacks up to other Gaggia espresso machines see our recent article – Cadorna Prestige Review 2020 chapter titled Comparing the Cadorna Prestige vs Accademia vs Babila. About Gaggia Selected for our Top 20 Super Automatic Espresso Machines for 2020 Gaggia patented the modern espresso mechanism in 1938 and revolutionized how Italians (and soon all of us) drank coffee. Just as importantly, Gaggia is an Italian company and designs and makes the Accademia in Italy and it shows. For more information on the heritage and history of Gaggia read about it in the buyer’s guide. Gaggia Accademia Review As we wrote in our recent 2020 Gaggia Buyer’s Guide installment, Comparing the Cadorna Prestige vs Accademia vs Babila, the Accademia 1003380 is a great product. There is a lot to like about the Accademia 1003380. It makes great drinks, brews rich, delicious espresso, makes smooth and velvety microfoam. It is also a beautiful machine and is well made. The Accademia has good capacity for water, beans, milk and spent grounds. Finally, it has a lot of removable parts and is reasonably easy to keep clean and well maintained. Some Drawbacks It does have some shortcomings and a few things to consider before buying. The Accademia has 8 built-in drink options. This is ok but not great. It comes with presets for espresso, caffè lungo, caffè, cappuccino, latte macchiato, hot milk, milk froth and hot water. Many comparable espresso machines make more options. Gaggia’s Cadorna Prestige makes 14 drinks, for example. However, ask yourself what drinks you are really going to make for yourself and your family or guests. I like cafe au lait, but I am realistically never going to make myself one at home. So, I don’t really care about the ‘missing options.’ The interface it good overall. It has very nicely styled buttons and they and the Espresso Plus knob are good physical controls. The Accademia does have a color display, but it looks dated. The colors are not rich the images less photorealistic than you see in newer models and the organization of the menus is good but not great. Gaggia Accademia Gaggia Accademia 1003380 Automatic Espresso Machine Gaggia Babila Gaggia Babila is a strong alternative to the Accademia I am not really bothered by the increasingly dated look of the interface. The machine’s body and shape itself are elegant and classic. It is mainly the controls that look older. A well-made Gaggia will last for many, many years. So, I think it is a mistake for them to emphasize a modern look or employ too much visible technology because really modern styling and displays will become outdated looking before you need to replace the machine. The Accademia has a beautiful stainless-steel body. So, overall the machine is well crafted and has timeless styling and elegant lines. Brewing Features Espresso brewing is a big strength for the Accademia. Like other Gaggia machines it has a 15-bar pump. You can adjust the aroma, body and temperature of coffee, coffee and/or milk length, the pre-brewing level and adjust the milk froth. The Optiaroma system five levels for the Accademia from 6.5 to 11.5 grams of coffee. This is a good range although some machines do allow for a broader range. The Accademia has 3 levels of pre-brewing and three levels of adjustable coffee temperature and adjustable coffee length. The “Espresso Plus” system on the Accademia has a knob on the front of the machine. You turn the knob left or right during the brewing to adjust the taste. This is a nice way to customize your drink on the fly. Dual independent stainless-steel boiler will help reduce the time between drinks and frothing milk. This is a big advantage over the Cadorna Prestige and other, lower priced alternatives. Grinding The Accademia has a ceramic grinder with 8 settings. It uses the Gaggia Adapting System to adjust the grinding process to the blend. So, you will get the grind you want. Grinding is better to get integrated and I recommend it. If you are going to have an automatic espresso machine, then let it work to its strengths. When you have a bean-to-cup system you eliminate the chances of you messing up a step. The Accademia handles all the steps from grinding, tamping, expressing and milk steaming and frothing consistently. Microfoam I like that the Accademia has an integrated milk carafe. The machine allows you to select and program 4 frothing options from hot milk to a steady and velvety foam. It has adjustable milk length and four different milk foam settings. As a result, the Accademia delivers great, consistent milk foam at the temperature you want. Maintenance & Cleaning You want to enjoy your drinks and not spend too much time filling things or emptying them out. The Accademia has good bean, water, milk and spent coffee ground capacities. It holds 15 pucks of spent grounds, for example. Many components can be removed, and you can access a lot of the machine. This allows for good maintenance and thorough cleanup. The parts that can be removed includes the milk carafe, water tank, coffee pucks container and the drip tray plate & container. This is getting more unusual among some brands. The Accademia does have a descaling cycle Gaggia Accademia Review The final word in our Gaggia Accademia Review is that we rate this a strong “buy” at 91. As long as you are not bothered by the tradeoffs and shortcomings it is a great choice. However, you may also want to consider the Babila SUP046DG and the Cadorna Prestige as well....
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