Should You Buy the QJA Espresso Machine with Milk Frother? Full Review

Description

Brewing Performance

The espresso maker’s brewing performance is quite impressive for its compact size. Every morning, as I groggily stumble into the kitchen, this machine has been a lifesaver. The 20-bar pressure system consistently delivers rich and smooth espresso, rivaling what you’d get at a café. I tested it with a variety of coffee grounds, and the results were consistently excellent. The machine heats up quickly, which is perfect when you’re rushing out the door but still want quality coffee. It also offers the flexibility to make single or double espresso shots, a feature I found incredibly useful when entertaining guests or indulging in a mid-afternoon pick-me-up.

Design & Build Quality

At first glance, the espresso machine stands out with its sleek stainless steel design. It fits seamlessly into my modern kitchen without looking out of place. The compact build makes it an ideal choice for smaller kitchens like mine, where counter space is a premium. Despite its small footprint, the machine feels sturdy and well-made. The LED touchscreen interface adds a futuristic vibe and is incredibly user-friendly, even for someone like my mom, who still struggles with her smartphone. However, the included coffee tamper is plastic, which feels a bit cheap compared to the rest of the machine’s high-quality construction.

Features

This espresso machine is packed with thoughtful features that make it a joy to use daily. The LED touchscreen simplifies the brewing process, and the self-cleaning function is a godsend for someone as lazy as me when it comes to maintenance. I especially love the milk frother, which has stable steam control and produces creamy, frothy milk for lattes and cappuccinos. My kids even use it to make hot chocolate with frothy milk, which they think is the coolest thing ever. The cup warmer is another nice touch, ensuring your espresso stays hot while you prepare other elements of your beverage.

Water Tank & Capacity

The removable water tank is a solid feature of this machine. Holding 57.5 ounces, it’s large enough to make several cups of coffee before needing a refill. This is especially handy when hosting brunch or when I’m having one of those “I need five cups of coffee to function” kind of days. The tank is easy to remove and clean, though its placement requires a bit of care to avoid spills. My partner and I drink a lot of coffee, and this tank size is perfect for our needs without feeling like we’re constantly running to the sink.

Milk Frothing & Steaming Capability

The milk frother is a real highlight of this espresso maker. It consistently produces rich, creamy foam that elevates my lattes and cappuccinos to barista-level quality. I even attempted some basic latte art, and while my designs need work, the froth itself was spot-on. The steam wand is easy to control, making it simple to achieve the right texture and temperature for a variety of drinks. My coworkers have commented on how café-like my homemade cappuccinos taste, and it’s all thanks to this little machine.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Cleaning this espresso machine couldn’t be easier. The self-cleaning function is a lifesaver, especially after making milk-based drinks. It saves me a lot of effort and keeps the components spotless. The drip tray and water tank are both removable, making them easy to rinse and reassemble. However, I noticed that if you don’t clean the milk frother immediately after use, the milk can dry up and become harder to remove. It’s a small inconvenience but worth noting.

Energy Efficiency & Noise Levels

Despite its power, this machine operates surprisingly quietly. I can make my morning espresso without waking up the entire household, which is a major win. The energy efficiency is also worth mentioning. It doesn’t seem to draw much power, and the automatic shut-off feature ensures it’s not wasting electricity when not in use. I’ve used other machines in the past that sounded like jet engines, so this one’s quiet operation is a pleasant surprise.

Warranty & Support

The espresso maker comes with a standard warranty, which is always reassuring. I haven’t had to contact customer support yet, but based on other reviews, they seem responsive and helpful. It’s comforting to know there’s a support team available if any issues arise, though the machine’s build quality gives me confidence that it’ll last a long time.

Advantages

• 20-bar pressure system delivers rich, smooth espresso.
• Compact and sleek stainless steel design fits any kitchen.
• User-friendly LED touchscreen simplifies operation.
• Large 57.5-ounce water tank reduces the need for frequent refills.

Areas for Improvement

• The included coffee tamper is plastic and feels cheap.
• Espresso temperature could be hotter for some users.
• Cleaning the milk frother immediately after use is necessary to avoid dried milk buildup.

Competing Products

Compared to similar models from brands like DeLonghi and Breville, this espresso maker holds its own quite well. While it lacks some advanced features of high-end models, like customizable brew settings or integrated grinders, its compact size and easy-to-use interface make it a great choice for everyday use. The milk frother produces foam comparable to more expensive machines, and its energy efficiency is a notable advantage over competitors. However, the plastic coffee tamper and slightly lower espresso temperature are areas where other brands might have an edge.

Affordable Quality

Given its features and performance, this espresso machine offers excellent value for its price. It’s a smart investment for anyone looking to elevate their coffee game without breaking the bank. While it’s not the cheapest option on the market, the quality and convenience it provides justify the cost. If you’re a coffee enthusiast who wants barista-quality drinks at home, this machine delivers on all fronts without requiring a second mortgage.

Additional information