Explore the AMZCHEF CM1636 Espresso Machine Review: Is It Worth the Hype?

Description

Brewing Performance

Every morning starts with me fiddling with this espresso machine, and let me say, the brewing performance is where it shines. The AMZCHEF CM1636 features a 20-bar pressure pump, which extracts the coffee’s flavor like a pro. The first time I used it, I was genuinely impressed by the rich crema on my espresso shot. It’s almost like having a barista on my kitchen counter, minus the awkward small talk. I also tested various coffee beans, ranging from light to dark roasts, and the machine handled them with ease. It doesn’t matter if you’re pulling a single or double shot—the flavor consistency is top-notch.

Design & Build Quality

The stainless steel finish feels premium and looks fantastic on my countertop. Its compact size is a blessing, especially for someone like me with limited kitchen space. The LCD display is a game-changer; it’s intuitive and handy when customizing settings. The buttons feel solid and responsive, but the machine’s weight is something to note. At 12 pounds, it’s sturdy, but not the easiest to move around. My partner even commented on how elegant and modern it looks, which is a rare compliment for any kitchen gadget.

Energy Efficiency & Noise Levels

This espresso machine operates relatively quietly compared to others I’ve owned. It doesn’t sound like a spaceship launching, which is a win in my book. Additionally, it has built-in features like automatic cleaning, which helps conserve energy and water. I love how it enters standby mode when not in use for a while. It’s a small detail, but it makes me feel less guilty about my carbon footprint while enjoying my morning latte.

Milk Frothing & Steaming Capability

The automatic milk frother is where things get both interesting and slightly frustrating. It’s excellent at creating silky foam for lattes and cappuccinos, but there’s a catch—you need chilled full-fat milk for the best results. Skim milk? Forget about it; you’ll end up with a sad, frothy mess. I made my wife a cappuccino last week, and she was impressed, so there’s that. However, the frother could be more consistent with different milk types. Its cleaning process, though, is hassle-free, which is a relief because cleaning milk residue is nobody’s favorite chore.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Speaking of cleaning, the detachable drip tray, milk frother, and water tank make maintenance straightforward. I appreciate the thoughtfulness in design here. The machine even has an automatic cleaning function, which feels like a gift from the espresso gods. However, I do wish it came with clearer instructions for deep cleaning the frother. My coworker borrowed it for a weekend brunch and mentioned the same thing. Still, for daily use, keeping it spotless is a breeze.

Coffee Quality

This espresso machine consistently delivers rich, flavorful coffee. Whether it’s an espresso, cappuccino, or latte, the taste is comparable to what you’d get in a café. I tested it with different grind sizes and found that medium-fine works best. You might want to experiment a bit if you’re picky about your coffee’s strength. The dual-wall filters are also great for beginners, as they’re forgiving if your grind or tamping isn’t perfect.

Water Tank & Capacity

The 61-ounce water tank is a blessing, especially if you’re someone who brews multiple cups a day. I hosted a small gathering recently, and we didn’t have to refill the tank once, even after making six lattes. The transparent design makes it easy to see when it’s time for a refill. Detaching and refilling it is straightforward, but the tank could benefit from a better sealing mechanism. A minor gripe, but worth mentioning.

Warranty & Support

The included warranty provides some peace of mind, but I haven’t had to use it yet. The brand’s customer service has a mixed reputation based on online reviews. While some users rave about prompt responses, others have faced delays. Personally, I haven’t had any issues, but knowing that support can be hit or miss might make you pause.

Features

This espresso machine is packed with features that make it a joy to use. The cup warming tray is a nice touch, though it doesn’t heat cups as effectively as advertised. The customizable coffee ratio settings are fantastic for tailoring each drink to your liking. I played around with these settings during my first week of use, and it’s now a game of “how can I make this even better?” The overheating alerts and overpressure protection are also reassuring, especially if you’re prone to multitasking and forgetting about your coffee.

Positives

Winning Points:

• 20-bar pressure pump for excellent flavor extraction.
• Automatic milk frother delivers café-quality foam.
• Intuitive LCD display for easy customization.
• Compact and stylish stainless steel design.
• Large 61-ounce water tank minimizes refills.

Negatives

Weaknesses:

• Milk frother struggles with non-dairy or low-fat milk.
• Cup warming tray could be more effective.
• Customer service reports are inconsistent.

Market Rivals

Comparing this espresso machine to other popular models like the Breville Bambino Plus or the De’Longhi Dedica, a few things stand out. The AMZCHEF CM1636 is more feature-rich, offering an automatic milk frother and an LCD display, which both competitors lack. However, the Breville edges out in milk frothing consistency, especially with alternative milks. If you prioritize build quality and brand reliability, Breville might be worth the extra investment. The De’Longhi, on the other hand, is slightly more compact, making it ideal for smaller spaces. That said, neither match the AMZCHEF’s combination of affordability and features.

Cost-Effectiveness

Given its range of features, this espresso machine offers excellent value for its price point. While it’s not the cheapest option, the included automatic milk frother, dual-wall filters, and intuitive LCD display make it worth every penny. It’s particularly appealing for those who want the convenience of a café experience at home without breaking the bank. If you’re on a budget but still want a comprehensive espresso machine, this one is hard to beat.

Additional information