Explore CASABREWS Espresso Machine Review: Is This 20-Bar Maker Worth Your Coffee Cravings?

Description

Coffee Quality

Testing out the CASABREWS Espresso Machine, model 4700Gense-02, felt like bringing a mini café into my kitchen. The coffee quality is genuinely impressive, especially for a home espresso machine. With its 20-bar Italian pump, the coffee extraction process yields an incredibly rich aroma. I’ve tried everything from espresso to lattes, and even a quick Americano, and each cup had a bold, smooth flavor. My favorite has been experimenting with different coffee grounds, and I’ve found that fresher grounds truly make the most of this machine. My coworker, a notorious coffee snob, gave my cappuccino a thumbs up—a rare compliment!

Brewing Performance

This espresso maker doesn’t mess around when it comes to performance. The semi-automatic features made it easy to brew consistently good coffee without feeling overly complicated. You’ve got pre-programmed options for single and double shots, which saved me a lot of guesswork. I’ve even used the adjustable temperature feature to brew hotter espresso on colder mornings. While the machine claims a quick heat-up time—and it mostly delivers—it sometimes feels like it hesitates just a bit longer than I’d prefer before it’s ready to steam. Still, for its price range, it performs like a champ.

Milk Frothing & Steaming Capability

The steam wand was a game-changer. I’ve always struggled with getting the perfect froth, but this machine made it surprisingly simple. Whether I was making a creamy latte for myself or frothy hot chocolate for my niece, the results were consistent. The wand creates textured, microfoam milk that’s perfect for latte art, though I wish it was slightly longer to make it easier to use larger pitchers. During one chaotic morning, my kids decided to try making their own hot chocolates, and even they managed to froth milk without any spills. If they can do it, anyone can.

Design & Build Quality

The stainless steel finish on this espresso machine gives it a sleek and modern look. It fits perfectly into my kitchen’s aesthetic, and it’s compact enough not to feel bulky on the counter. At 16 pounds, it’s sturdy but light enough for me to move if needed. The buttons are straightforward, and the dial interface is intuitive. However, the plastic parts, like the portafilter handle, feel a little less premium compared to the rest of the machine. It’s not a dealbreaker, but it’s something I noticed after a few weeks of daily use.

Water Tank & Capacity

The detachable 51-ounce water tank was a blessing for my household of avid coffee drinkers. I didn’t have to constantly refill it, even during our weekend coffee marathons. Cleaning and refilling it is hassle-free, though I found the tank’s design makes it slightly awkward to remove if the machine is placed under low cabinets. Keeping it well-maintained is crucial, especially if you’re using hard water, as I learned from a previous espresso machine disaster.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Cleaning this espresso maker has been a breeze. The drip tray slides out easily, and the machine itself doesn’t retain any stubborn coffee stains or residue. The included instructional videos were extremely helpful in teaching me the right way to clean the steam wand and other components. My only gripe is that the filter baskets can be a bit tricky to remove, requiring me to use a spoon to pop them out. Investing in a puck screen or paper filters might help make cleanup even easier.

Energy Efficiency & Noise Levels

I appreciate how energy-efficient this machine is. It heats up quickly and doesn’t seem to guzzle electricity like some of the larger espresso machines I’ve tested in the past. Noise levels are another story—it’s not whisper-quiet but isn’t obnoxiously loud either. My dog barks at the vacuum cleaner but doesn’t even flinch when the espresso machine is running, so I’d say it’s acceptable.

Warranty & Support

Dealing with customer support was surprisingly smooth. I had a minor issue with the tamper mat, and their response was quick and helpful. The included warranty gave me peace of mind, though I haven’t had any major problems that required using it yet. Knowing that their team is knowledgeable and responsive is reassuring.

Positives

Key Benefits

• Features a professional 20-bar pump for excellent coffee extraction.
• User-friendly controls, including single and double-shot options.
• Compact design with a stylish stainless steel finish.
• Efficient steam wand creates creamy microfoam for specialty drinks.

Negatives

Weaknesses

• Portafilter handle feels slightly less premium due to plastic material.
• Steam wand could be longer for easier use with larger pitchers.
• Double shot button can be finicky and requires precise timing.

Competitive Options

Comparing this machine to similar semi-automatic models, it holds its ground well. Against the Breville Barista Express, for instance, the CASABREWS model is more budget-friendly while still offering great brewing capabilities. However, the Breville machine boasts a built-in grinder, which the CASABREWS lacks, meaning you’ll need to invest in a separate grinder for optimal results. On the flip side, the CASABREWS machine offers an adjustable temperature setting, something not all competitors in its price range include.

Price Performance

For its price, this espresso machine delivers exceptional value. You’re getting features like adjustable brewing temperatures, a professional-grade pump, and a sleek design—all without breaking the bank. While it doesn’t have premium extras like a built-in grinder or advanced temperature controls, its performance and design make it feel worth every penny. If you’re looking for an affordable way to elevate your home coffee game, this machine is a fantastic choice.

Additional information