Explore if the HiBREW H10B espresso machine delivers premium features worth its price review

Description

Design & Build Quality

The HiBREW H10B Espresso Machine immediately struck me with its brushed stainless steel body. It feels robust yet sleek, effortlessly fitting into both modern and cozy kitchens. Its compact dimensions (12″x5″x11″) make it an excellent choice for small countertops, yet it doesn’t sacrifice functionality. One detail I appreciated is the suction cups at the base, which add stability during use. However, the lightweight design does have its drawbacks; locking in the portafilter often requires two hands, as the machine tends to slide a little despite the suction cups.

The inclusion of a matte finish ensures it remains resistant to fingerprints, which is a blessing for someone like me who can’t stand smudges on appliances. A minor gripe, though, is the relatively small portafilter size at 51mm, which feels somewhat limiting compared to the standard 58mm options available on more professional machines.

Features

This espresso machine is packed with features that elevate its usability. It offers programmable functions, allowing you to customize coffee volume, extraction temperature, steam temperature, and even pre-infusion time. For someone who likes experimenting with different beans, this feature is a game-changer. I found myself playing around with the temperature settings and pre-infusion times, which ranged from 0 to 10 seconds, to get the perfect espresso shot.

Another standout feature is the steaming wand, which rotates 270 degrees. It makes frothing milk for lattes and cappuccinos incredibly easy. Additionally, the cup warming feature on the top of the machine is a thoughtful touch. It keeps your cups warm, ensuring that your coffee stays hot longer—a small but impactful detail for coffee enthusiasts like me.

Coffee Quality

The HiBREW H10B consistently delivered rich and flavorful espresso shots. Adjusting the settings allowed me to highlight the unique characteristics of different coffee beans. I tested it with a medium roast and a darker roast, and both resulted in a thick crema that rivaled my favorite cafes. The 20-bar pressure system seems to do a fantastic job of extracting flavors fully. My family, including my sister who’s a self-proclaimed coffee connoisseur, was impressed by the quality of the espresso.

Brewing Performance

This machine heats up surprisingly quickly, thanks to its thermo-coil heating system. I timed it, and within less than a minute, it was ready to brew. The consistent water temperature ensured that every shot was balanced and smooth. However, I occasionally noticed a slight delay in switching between brewing and steaming modes, which could be a minor inconvenience if you’re in a hurry.

Milk Frothing & Steaming Capability

The steam wand deserves special mention. Despite its small size, it produces dense and creamy microfoam effortlessly. I even managed to make latte art, which is something I rarely achieve with other affordable machines. The 125°C to 150°C steam temperature range provides sufficient power, though steaming does take a little longer than on larger machines. Cleaning the detachable steam head is a breeze, which is a huge plus.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Keeping the HiBREW H10B clean is uncomplicated, which I greatly value. The drip tray and water tank are easy to remove, and the stainless steel body wipes down quickly. The reusable filter is another eco-friendly and cost-saving feature I appreciated. However, the steam wand requires regular purging to prevent milk buildup, a step that’s easy to forget but crucial for long-term performance.

Water Tank & Capacity

The water tank is reasonably sized for a compact machine, holding enough for several cups of coffee in one go. It’s also easy to detach and refill, an advantage when you’re in the middle of a busy morning routine. However, I did notice that the tank’s placement at the back can be a bit inconvenient if the machine is positioned against a wall.

Energy Efficiency & Noise Levels

Energy efficiency is another highlight of the HiBREW H10B. The auto shut-off feature kicks in after a period of inactivity, which is great for reducing energy consumption. Noise levels are minimal during brewing, making it ideal for early mornings when the rest of the house is asleep. The steaming function, however, is slightly louder, though not excessively so.

Warranty & Support

The included warranty adds peace of mind, and the customer support from HiBREW has been responsive based on what I’ve read from other users. I didn’t encounter any issues that required me to contact them, but knowing there’s reliable support available is always reassuring.

Positives

Key Benefits

• Customizable programmable settings for coffee and steam.
• Compact design with a sleek stainless steel finish.
• Efficient thermo-coil heating system ensures quick operation.
• Dense and creamy milk froth thanks to the 270° steam wand.
• Minimal noise levels during brewing.

Negatives

Areas for Improvement

• Lightweight design requires two hands for locking in the portafilter.
• Small portafilter size (51mm) limits some customization.
• Slight delay when switching between brewing and steaming modes.
• Rear water tank placement can be inconvenient in tight spaces.

Product Contenders

Comparing the HiBREW H10B to similarly priced options like the De’Longhi Dedica and Gaggia Classic, it holds its own remarkably well. The Dedica offers a slimmer profile but lacks the same customization features. On the other hand, the Gaggia Classic boasts a larger portafilter and more robust build quality but comes at a significantly higher cost.

Where this machine excels is in its balance of features and affordability. Customizable settings and a compact design make it ideal for both beginners and seasoned coffee enthusiasts. However, if you prioritize professional-grade steaming or a larger portafilter, you might lean towards the Gaggia Classic.

Cost Efficiency

Looking at the Cost-Effectiveness, the HiBREW H10B offers incredible value for its price point. Its combination of features, from customizable settings to a powerful steam wand, would typically be found in much more expensive machines. While not perfect, it delivers more than enough for its cost, making it a smart investment for those seeking café-quality espresso at home.

Additional information