Choosing a bean coffee machine for your home: how not to go wrong

Melitta Caffeo Solo & Perfect Milk

The Melitta Caffeo Solo & Perfect Milk coffee machine is a fully automatic coffee machine. Melitta has been producing reliable and very easy-to-use coffee machines for over 100 years.

They are manufactured in German factories from high-quality components and are intended for use in offices with a small number of employees or for home use.

Melitta Caffeo Solo & Perfect Milk is distinguished by functionality and, accordingly, price . The dimensions of this model are very modest - 20 cm wide, 45.5 cm deep and 32.5 cm high. Such dimensions allow it to be installed even in a modest kitchen.

In fact, this is one of the smallest coffee machines. It should be noted that much attention is paid to appearance - these devices will harmoniously fit into any interior. If you want to enjoy high-quality espresso or Americano, then the Caffeo Solo model will be simply irreplaceable in your kitchen.

Functions

Coffee maker functions:

• Automatic cleaning and decalcification program;
• Possibility of using a water filter;
• Individual coffee preparation settings;
• Cappuccino maker;
• Passive cup heating;
• Hot water supply;
• Stainless steel tray;
• Cup warming;
• Pre-wetting;
• Prepare 2 cups at once;
• Programmable coffee strength;
• Programming water hardness;
• Programmable water flow for coffee from 30 to 220 ml;
• Height-adjustable coffee outlet for coffee outlet;
• Built-in recipes – Americano / Espresso;
• Function 0 Watt;
• Automatic shutdown function;
• Hot water supply function.

Its modest dimensions allow it to be installed even in the smallest kitchen. In fact, this is one of the smallest coffee machines. But, nevertheless, its functionality is amazing. First of all, this is that all the parameters are adjustable - you can set the amount of coffee per serving, the volume of water in each serving, and the brewing temperature.

To make the coffee tastier, pre-wetting technology is used. Its essence is that before preparation, coffee powder is doused with boiling water and left for several seconds. To prevent drops of coffee from splashing, the dispenser is height adjustable. The maximum cup height is 135 mm.

Melitta Caffeo Solo & Perfect Milk is also unpretentious in maintenance. All main components are removable and can be washed in the dishwasher. Service programs closely monitor all sensor indicators, and at the right time the necessary information appears on the text screen.

Peculiarities

Melitta Caffeo Solo & Perfect Milk has simple and logical controls. The model is intended for espresso lovers - you can get a cup of thick and tasty drink in a couple of seconds.

But since there is no automatic cappuccino maker for this model, you will have to prepare milk froth using a steam outlet tube, as on conventional coffee makers. Milk foam is prepared manually.

To switch, you need to press the steam button, then wait for the valve operation indicator to light up, place a container of milk under the steam tube so that the end of the tube is immersed in the milk, and turn the steam switch. The manufacturer recommends moving the milk container up and down.

But it is worth keeping in mind that when preparing by hand, the result may vary depending on the type of milk, its fat content, temperature, etc.

Advantages

The advantages of the coffee maker include:

• Automatic shutdown function - after 1 hour (factory setting), the display turns off and the device is de-energized. Energy-saving standby mode - turns on by default 5 minutes after the last coffee preparation.
• 0 watt function. After pressing the “0 watt” button, the machine interrupts communication with the power grid. All individual settings are saved. In addition, the On/Off function is time programmable so that the machine automatically turns on at a preset time.
• The coffee machine practically tells you where to press , because there are only four buttons. Their purpose is emphasized by a bright graphic image.
• The preparation of two cups is started by pressing the selection button twice . It is prepared like this: turn on the coffee grinder, then pour half the portion into the cups at the same time, a short pause, turn on the coffee grinder again, and pour the second half of the portion.
• Height-adjustable coffee outlet for coffee outlet . The coffee outlet is height adjustable up to 135 mm for one or two cups, mugs or latte macchiatto glasses.
• Pre-wetting . To ensure maximum enjoyment, the coffee pre-brewing function is used. To obtain the most aromatic coffee, already ground coffee is doused with water immediately before brewing. The system can be easily removed for optimal cleaning.
• MISSION eco & care. The “Mission eco & care” label provides a complete assessment of the environmental sustainability of every Melitta® electrical product. This includes an assessment of the production and use phases, along with the recycling phase at the end of the product's life. The rating system, which gives each product a maximum rating of five stars, helps the buyer in deciding to purchase a product that guarantees tangible pleasure.
• Individual coffee preparation settings . Enjoyment without compromise: You choose the strength and temperature of your coffee. In addition, with one turn of the knob you can also program the amount of coffee according to the cup size.
• Compact and modern design. The coffee machine sets new standards in compactness. The cube shape is visually impressive and also very compact, so you can find a suitable place for the coffee machine anywhere.

The coffee channel rinsing program runs automatically after each coffee machine is switched on and before each switch off. A test strip for determining water hardness comes with the coffee machine.

It is recommended to clean the steam wand after each preparation of a drink with milk foam. Can be done by hand or in the dishwasher.

Flaws

The disadvantages of the coffee machine include:

• lack of pressure gauge;
• lack of anti-drip system.

Every two months (after 200 cups of coffee) it is recommended to activate the automatic cleaning program. This requires the use of special Melitta cleaning tablets. The program takes 15 minutes.

Although the program is called automatic, you will have to actively participate in the procedure: remove and rinse the cooking device, press the steam button, clean the tray, etc.

Another disadvantage is that it is difficult to accurately set the amount of coffee at the intermediate positions of the volume control. Even without instructions, it is difficult to figure out how to change the temperature of the drink or the automatic shutdown time.

There is no special indication for these parameters ; you need to use various combinations of buttons and set the values ​​using the button for selecting the strength of the drink.

The descaling program takes about 30 minutes and also requires a number of manipulations with the machine.

Video review

Main characteristics in the video presentation:

Video presentation of this device and its capabilities in the video below:

The key advantages of the device are in the video below:

Results

Melitta Caffeo Solo & Perfect Milk is a narrow, compact coffee machine, the key advantage of which is the exceptional quality of the milk froth. It is very reliable and durable, works quietly without any failures.

But the Melitta Caffeo Solo & Perfect Milk is not suitable for those who also require an impeccable modern design from a coffee machine - unfortunately, its body looks rather cheap and sloppy. However, this is not the only disadvantage of this model, but overall its price-quality ratio is adequate.

Melitta Caffeo Solo & Perfect Milk is perfect for office or home use. For not very experienced users, the machine is simple, convenient and understandable. Although making cappuccino requires direct human participation in the process, you can learn this literally after 2-3 uses.

Moreover, everything is described in detail in the instructions. And the milk foam that this model prepares is simply amazing, and manual preparation makes it possible to make it in any quantity.

Melitta Caffeo Solo & Perfect Milk is not suitable for use in cafes, as it is too simple, does not have much power and does not have a counting of prepared portions. The manufacturer itself positions this model as a coffee machine for home and office use.

Operating principle of coffee preparation

The device consists of standard elements:

• liquid reservoir;
• electric heater;
• container for ground powder with filter;
• pressure gauge for measuring pressure inside equipment;
• container where the finished product arrives;
• additions for preparing other drinks - cappuccino, latte.

To prepare aromatic, invigorating coffee in a grain machine, just pour the beans into a special compartment, select the grind and cup size. Then the beans are ground, passed through a filter, and the resulting product is delicious.

Healthy! It is not necessary to pour in a fresh portion of coffee beans before each preparation. They can be stored in a sealed capsule, directly in the device itself, and used as needed. This will preserve the indescribable aroma and rich taste for several days.

Main selection criteria

Kind of work

1. Auto. The user selects only the degree of strength and the volume of the cup; the machine does the rest itself. This is very convenient and allows you to prepare various types of coffee drinks, you don’t need to know the recipes. The disadvantages of such devices include their high cost and noisy operation, which is why they are often installed in offices and public institutions;

   
   Automatic control machine suitable for office

   Read also:  Coffee Day - how Coffee Day is celebrated in different countries
2. Semi-automatic. They require more participation and attention when performing manipulations. In addition, you need to have certain knowledge and recipes to make the coffee truly tasty and aromatic. On the other hand, the result obtained in this way will be superior in quality to a similar product prepared on an automatic machine.

Control type

1. Mechanical. The device is controlled using special switches on the dashboard. Such devices are convenient, reliable and simple, and they are cheaper. The best option for home;
2. Electronic. This type of control is used on more expensive, advanced models. It involves pressing keys on the touch panel; there is a display showing the work process. Such products are often installed in public institutions. The only drawback is the possibility of freezing during operation.

Mechanical control Electronic control

Grain mechanism type

1. Removable. To clean the element, it must be removed from the machine and washed separately with detergent, then dried and reinstalled;
2. Non-removable. The option is used in more expensive units and involves automatic cleaning of the tank.

Removable brewing mechanism

Number of grinding levels

All coffee machines have the ability to adjust the degree of grinding of the beans. For true connoisseurs of coffee nectar, it is better to give preference to devices with at least five levels - such a variety will allow you to prepare any types of drinks, each of which will reveal its taste in its own way.

When choosing, pay attention to the coffee grind degree programs

Recommendation! A smaller number of modes should not confuse users - this will not affect the taste and aroma in any way.

Tank volume

When choosing, pay attention to the size of the water flask and the container for coffee beans. The permissible amount of product obtained at the output depends on the capacity of the tanks. For home use, a liter container for liquid and a 170 gram container for grains is sufficient.

If the device will be placed in an office or coffee shop, it is better to choose larger models - over 1.7 liters and 250 grams, respectively.

Power

The speed of preparing the drink depends on this parameter. If the power indicator is too high, the process will occur so quickly that the liquid will not have time to soak in and be filled with the appropriate aroma and taste. For home use, the optimal range is from 800 to 1500 W.

The speed of coffee preparation depends on the power

Interesting! Many models have the option of soaking the coffee mixture. This gives the drink even more richness and strength.

Dimensions

This criterion is influenced by many characteristics of the device - the volume of its tanks, additional functions, power. Considering that appliances are usually quite large, you should think in advance about a place for them in the kitchen. This is especially important for small spaces. Of course, the more people who use the unit at the same time, the higher its parameters should be, and the larger its dimensions will be.

Consider a place for appliances in the kitchen in advance

Operation and care

Bean coffee machines require special care during operation with the mandatory involvement of professionals. You regularly need to disassemble the device and clean each part separately from any remaining ingredients. Only a careful approach will ensure a long service life and high quality of the products created.

BEST CHEAP MODELS

Well-known brands produce coffee machines for the home in a wide price range. Therefore, even in the budget price category you can find a device that meets the most demanding requirements. The top includes products that have been tested in practice and received high marks from specialists and ordinary buyers.

Redmond SkyCoffee M1505S — buy from RUB 7,999.

With the help of the universal Redmond coffee maker, the morning will be truly good and cheerful. The device carries out all stages of preparing an invigorating drink. Grinds coffee beans, brews coffee, whose exquisite aroma invites everyone to the table.

The uniqueness of the unit is that it combines the functions of a coffee grinder and coffee maker. The control system makes the M1505S a device that meets modern requirements. The peculiarity of a smart coffee maker is the use of modern digital technologies. You can “order” a cup of strong coffee from your home mini-coffee shop from your smartphone.

The fineness of grinding the grains is regulated by the grinding duration. All the commands needed to set up cooking are in the mobile application.

Specifications:

• Drip coffee maker;
• Processes coffee beans;
• Power: 600 W;
• Volume: 0.5 l.

Oursson CMO400G — buy from RUB 3,690.

The device is small in size and intended for home use. This compact coffee maker fits perfectly into the design of any kitchen. The presence of a built-in coffee grinder expands the capabilities of the device and provides the owner with the opportunity to enjoy the taste of his favorite drink every morning.

The functionality of a drip coffee maker is not much different from its more expensive counterparts. It also allows you to adjust the grinding fineness, like premium segment models. The owner can set the mill to create fine or coarse powder. You can also use already ground coffee.

The device will quickly prepare 2-4 cups of drink. The machine can be stopped to pour one portion without waiting for the entire volume to finish heating.

Specifications:

• Drip coffee maker;
• Digests ground and bean coffee;
• Power: 900 W;
• Volume 0.6 l.

Tips for choosing

1. A good grain coffee machine will provide you with naturally delicious coffee every day without the need to visit public places or spend time at the stove brewing in a Turkish coffee pot;
2. Considering the considerable cost of equipment, you should approach the selection of a suitable model with maximum responsibility in order to enjoy all its advantages in the future;
3. When purchasing, you should pay great attention to the volume of containers for coffee and water. The more coffee lovers live in an apartment, the higher these indicators should be. If the machine is purchased for one person, you can limit yourself to a compact device with minimal values;
4. Additional options will allow you to prepare not only coffee, but also various bean-based drinks. In addition, certain functions make the unit easier to maintain;
5. Regardless of the price of the device, they all prepare a good natural product. As the price increases, the capabilities of the device change, its reliability increases and its operation becomes easier.

Watch a video on how to choose the right coffee machine

conclusions

Philips HD8828 is a good budget option for home and office.

Philips HD 8649 is ideal for use in the home kitchen by a small family. It is reliable and easy to use. It can also find its place in the office, but the device’s imperfect self-cleaning system makes it less desirable for an office space.

Delonghi ECAM 22.360 - a large water tank, the ability to quickly prepare a large number of cups of coffee, automatic shutdown and automation of all processes are perfect for the office.

Melitta Caffeo Solo & Perfect Milk is good for home or small office . Not suitable for a restaurant or cafe.