Ultra Espresso Machine with LCD Display, Espresso Maker with Powerful Milk Frother, Customizable Brewing Temperature, Provides Barista-Level Lattes and Cappuccinos, Gift for Men & Women

I took a chance on going cheaper with Casabrews vs the competitor and am very happy I did! From the ease of use to the ease of cleaning I am overall very satisfied. It’s very simple to operate. I wanted a machine that can do hot water only and it works great. The steam wand is pretty decent for the price point. The top of the machines gets warm to heat up your cups. I typically let it warm up for 5-10 min, as that is just what I’ve set my routine to, it doesn’t take nearly that long. I like the smaller footprint; it doesn’t take up too much space. I prefer to have a separate grinder, which I’m still needing to upgrade, but even with the cheap grinder I’m pulling pretty good shots. I did purchase a bottomless Portafilter and I enjoy using that one, but I am pleasantly impressed with the dual spout that comes with the machine. The tamper is just a cheap plastic tool that needs to be upgraded to get a nice calibrated tamp, but certainly is functional enough to get started. This machine comes with several baskets to fit your needs which is great! It holds ample water to pull many shots before needing to be refilled. If you’re looking for a machine to get you started or even someone that is well versed in the espresso world, this is a winner. The manual that comes with the machine is very easy follow to make any adjustments. I would purchase this machine again! I give 5 stars because I really don’t have complaints, I paid under $200 on a sale and for what this machine offers, you just can’t beat it.

I've only been using it for a week but it's been working well so far. Small enough to fit in an average sized kitchen but large enough to make a good professional cup of espresso. It's easy to use once you get the hang of it and I like that it has an option to put out hot water. It looks very sleek and professional. It makes a good tasting espresso FAST, at least for my American tastebuds. So far, all of the components have been easy to clean as long as you properly maintain everything.

Second day using this amazing machine and I love it so much! If you are thinking of getting an affordable, easy to use espresso machine, this is it!

This machine was an upgrade from a cheap random espresso machine and I just thought I was making decent espresso at home... this machine has pushed me into coffee snob territory (as much as you can be in there whilst being poor). Absolutely fantastic shots out of this thing and it's 100% the easiest thing to use outside of a fully automated deal! I worked for Starbucks and this machine pulls more consistent and far more flavorful shots than the automated ones they have.

This review is a very difficult one for me, as I have been delaying my review till I was more familiar with the machine and had obtained more knowledge in espresso making. **NOTE: I AM BY NO MEANS A BARISTA OR AN EXPERT ON ESPRESSO MAKING, BUT A NORMAL GUY THAT DECIDED HE DIDN’T WANT TO KEEP DONATING MONEY TO STARBUCKS FOR SOMETHING I COULD POSSIBLY DO AT HOME** With that caveat in mind, let's review this machine based on ease of use, skill level, support, and a growing understanding of the chase for the perfect espresso. USAGE: Pros vs. Cons PROs - First: This machine is awesome for the beginner! It is programmed from the start to get you into the espresso game and does a fantastic job. Second: The fact that comes with all the accessories that are necessary (well…minus the milk steaming cup) makes it an advantage for someone like me. It literally is a push-button away from an espresso (don’t ask if my first shot was good or bad…I am sure you can guess the answer). Out of the box, into the plug, add water, and off you go. Third: The simplicity of the machine is a big thumbs up, from a beginner's perspective. Fourth: Clean-up from a very limited mess with this machine is so easy and fast! Fifth: It is very nicely sized and counter-friendly if you are space-confined. Sixth: The YouTube videos that are provided are just amazing and give you some confidence in the process. Probably, a great idea to check those out before purchase. CONs – First: Really, no milk steaming cup. C’mon Casabrew.. I know you are attempting to keep this machine in its price point, but you can get these at a very low cost when purchased in bulk. Second: No grinder on the machine, in the box, or recommended. In the espresso world, the grind is KING, so this would be a negative for me. I was able to purchase pre-ground espresso from a local shop, as I waited for my grinder to arrive from Amazon. Third: The Machine only has 4 temperature settings, so you will not be able to dial in a higher temperature than pre-determined by the manufacturer. Understandable at this price point and now knowing the inner workings of this machine, but somewhat disappointing when your espresso shot gets cool quickly. Fourth: The Steam wand is functional; however, it does take some time to build up and “churn” the milk as needed. DO NOT think you are going to start making artistic designs immediately. It’s been months, and I still can't get this steam wand to produce the smooth, silky milk I need. Fifth: You get what you pay for, which is hard to say is a CON; however, once you start your journey, it will become obvious that you must make some life decisions about how much you really want to spend on the chase for the perfect espresso. SKILL LEVEL: Pros vs. Cons PROs – First: This machine is perfect for the novice (beginner), as it offers a very intuitive and comfortable process. CONs – First – This machine may frustrate an experienced Barista, as it is limited in options and functions. SUPPORT: Pros vs. Cons PROs – First: I know this company is relatively new in the market (as compared to other well-known established companies), but their Customer Support is beyond responsive and very knowledgeable about this machine and others. They will be there to help you in the process and answer any questions that arise. I felt very dumb asking some questions, and they responded with grace and provided answers without making me feel like they were “espresso-snobs”. CONs – **NONE** GREAT SUPPORT TEAM & MANY VIDEOS TO ASSIST! GROWING UNDERSTANDING OF PROCESS: SUMMARY I had no idea the complexity or the level to which some people take espresso making. I have even seen people on the internet with thousands of dollars tied up in machines that graph every detail. The fundamentals of the espresso making process really are simple: Fresch Ground Coffee, Proper Puck Preparation & Consistency in practice. As a continue to grow in my skill level and knowledge, I am starting to see how someone could really dive off a deep end in the espresso journey. I have read a ton of reviews on this machine and other and it is obvious that a lot of the reviews are where users are failing in areas that are not machine related. They fail in the fundamentals of preparing a proper dose and puck, but then blame the machine. Kinda funny that often “user error” is blame on “machine malfunction”. I highly recommend this machine for anyone looking to start at home espresso making and want to stay in the price range that is reasonable. Will you match those big coffee shops or the local barista shop? NOPE…they have invested thousands of dollars and hours; however, I can tell you that after only a few months my wife prefers my lattes over the big coffee stores and local shops. I hope this review helped in some small way. If you have any questions, please post them and I will do my best to answer them. Hey, thanks for reading this long review!

I absolutely love this Espresso machine. So easy to use and maintain, it's worth every penny.

This machine is easy to use and works very well. I will have to say I wish the temperature of the espresso making process could go a little higher. I feel like the max isn’t quite hot enough, but I like my espresso to be burning hot before I add the steamed almond milk. All in all very happy with my purchase.

Shocking how good this machine is for the money. My last espresso machine was a Professional Kitchen Aid and cost $2000.00. It was very complicated and not worth the money. The Casabrews Ultra is an excellent machine. The espresso comes out smooth with no bitterness. This machine is so easy to use! Highly recommended!