Explore the KRUPS 963 Steam Espresso Maker Review: Is It Worth the Hype?

Description

Design & Build Quality

The Krups Model 963 Black Espresso/Cappuccino Maker is a compact machine that fits snugly on my kitchen counter without taking up too much space. Its black finish gives it a sleek, understated aesthetic that blends well with most kitchen decor. While the machine is lightweight at just 3.65 pounds, it feels durable and well-constructed. However, I did notice that some parts, particularly around the water fill area, are made of plastic, which might not age well over time. A few users reported melting or cracking in these areas after prolonged use. Personally, I haven’t experienced this yet, but it’s something to keep an eye on.

Brewing Performance

I have been using this espresso maker for a few weeks now, and I must say, it delivers a robust brewing performance. The steam pressure is consistent, allowing hot water to push through the coffee grounds efficiently. This results in a strong espresso that packs a punch. That said, it doesn’t produce the rich crema that you might get from high-end machines. If you’re not overly picky about crema, this machine does an excellent job for its category. I made everything from single shots to full carafes, and the brewing process is smooth and predictable.

Coffee Quality

The coffee quality is solid, offering a bold and rich flavor that satisfies my caffeine cravings. I used my go-to espresso grind coffee, and the results were consistently good. While it might not rival the taste of espresso made from more expensive machines, it delivers a satisfying cup for everyday use. My coworker, who tried the espresso during a work-from-home day, was impressed with the flavor and even asked for a second cup. However, if you’re someone who insists on café-level quality, you might find it slightly lacking.

Milk Frothing & Steaming Capability

This machine includes a steam wand for frothing milk, which is a great addition for cappuccino lovers like me. I found the frother functional, but it takes a bit of practice to get the milk just right. The wand’s power is decent but not exceptional, so achieving that barista-level texture requires patience. On a lazy Sunday, I tried making a latte, and while the milk was adequately steamed, the froth wasn’t as thick as I had hoped. Some reviews mentioned the absence of a “perfect froth” attachment, which could improve the frothing experience.

Features

The Krups Model 963 Black Espresso/Cappuccino Maker is semi-automatic, which means you have a bit of control but without the steep learning curve of manual machines. It has a reusable filter, saving money and reducing waste compared to disposable options. The included carafe is handy for serving multiple cups, and I appreciate that it’s easy to handle and pour from. The steam pressure design is simple yet effective, making this a practical choice for casual coffee enthusiasts.

Water Tank & Capacity

The water tank is appropriately sized for a machine of this scale, holding enough water to brew up to four cups of espresso. It’s straightforward to refill, though I wish the opening were slightly larger to avoid spills. On busy mornings, I found the capacity sufficient for making two lattes back-to-back without needing a refill. However, if you’re hosting guests or making multiple drinks in one go, you might find yourself refilling more often than you’d like.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Maintaining this espresso maker has been relatively hassle-free. The parts are easy to disassemble for cleaning, and the reusable filter is simple to rinse out. I usually wipe down the exterior and steam wand after each use, which keeps it looking clean. That said, some users have pointed out that the plastic components around the water fill area can be tricky to clean thoroughly. I haven’t encountered major issues yet, but I can see how this could become a concern over time.

Energy Efficiency & Noise Levels

One thing I love about this machine is how quickly it heats up, which is a blessing for anyone rushing to get their caffeine fix in the morning. It doesn’t draw a lot of power, making it an energy-efficient choice. Noise-wise, it’s fairly quiet compared to some other espresso machines I’ve used. The brewing process produces a low hum, and the steam wand is not excessively loud. This makes it perfect for early mornings when you don’t want to wake the entire household.

Warranty & Support

Krups provides a standard warranty for this espresso maker, which is reassuring. While I haven’t needed to contact customer support, other reviews suggest that Krups has a good reputation for service. It’s always nice to know you have some backup if something goes wrong. Given that this model is no longer in production, finding replacement parts might be a bit challenging, but the machine’s sturdy build minimizes the likelihood of frequent repairs.

Perks

• Compact design fits well in small kitchens.
• Consistently strong espresso with rich flavor.
• Reusable filter saves money and reduces waste.
• Straightforward maintenance and cleaning.

Areas for Improvement

• Plastic components might not be durable over time.
• Frothing wand could use more power for better milk texture.
• Lacks the ability to produce a rich crema.

Competitive Options

When comparing this espresso maker to others, the De’Longhi Stilosa and Mr. Coffee Café Barista come to mind. Both offer similar semi-automatic capabilities but differ in certain areas. The De’Longhi Stilosa has a more powerful frother, which might appeal to latte enthusiasts, while the Mr. Coffee machine includes an automatic milk frother for added convenience. However, both are bulkier than the Krups Model 963, making them less ideal for small kitchens. On the downside, the Krups machine offers fewer modern features than its competitors, such as programmable settings or advanced frothing mechanisms.

Price Worthiness

For its price point, this espresso maker offers decent bang for the buck. It might not have the bells and whistles of more expensive machines, but it provides reliable performance and solid coffee quality without breaking the bank. If you’re looking for an affordable option to make espresso and cappuccino at home, this machine is a smart choice. Keep in mind, though, that you may need to compromise on frothing capabilities and durability.

Additional information