I Tried a Budget Espresso Machine: AMZCHEF Review
If you want a home espresso machine but don’t want to spend hundreds of dollars, the AMZCHEF Compact Espresso Machine packs quite a bit into a small package. It has a 20 bar pump, PID temperature control, a steam wand, customizable shots, and heats up in about 30 seconds.
I've been using the AMZCHEF and, so far, I like it. It's clean, sleek, compact, and extremely easy to use. It does feel a little plasticy, especially compared to more expensive espresso machines, but I've been surprised by how durable it feels during actual use.
I've noticed a slight slowing in the amount of coffee being extracted over time, which I'm keeping an eye on. Outside of that, so far so good.
AMZCHEF Compact Espresso Machine: The Verdict
Durability: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆
Performance & Function: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
Price: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Value: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆
Overall: 3.5/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
The TLDR
The AMZCHEF Compact Espresso Machine is a budget-friendly espresso machine. You get a 20 bar pump, PID temperature control, approximately 30 second heat up, customizable shots, and a steam wand in a clean, compact design. It’s very easy to use, however, the donside is that the overall espresso output (that is, the amunt actually coming out into the mug) dwinled quickly snce it’s firrst uses after the first week. In subsequent weeks the resulting pour is less but stable and now consistent. So, really, it just takes a couple more button presses to get a full mug (my preference).
AMZCHEF Compact Espresso Machine
Selling Points
Compact, Clean Design: It's only about 7 inches wide and doesn't take over the counter. I also like the clean white design.
Very Easy to Use: This is probably my favorite part. There isn't much of a learning curve. You can select a single or double shot and start making espresso without having to mess with a bunch of settings.
Fast Heat Up: It heats up in about 30 seconds, which makes it much more practical for everyday use, especially on busy mornings.
PID Temperature Control: PID helps keep the brewing temperature more consistent during extraction. It's a nice feature to find in a machine at this price.
360° Steam Wand: The stainless steel steam wand lets you froth milk for lattes, cappuccinos, and other drinks without needing a separate frother.
Large Removable Water Tank: The tank is removable, easy to refill, and holds enough water that you aren't constantly filling it between drinks.
Drawbacks
It Feels Plasticy: This was one of my first impressions. It doesn't have the heavier, premium feel of a more expensive espresso machine. That said, it has actually felt surprisingly durable during use.
Extraction Has Slowed: I've noticed a decrease in the amount of espresso being extracted. It was good week 1 but then decreased a decent amount and just remained slightly less. As a reuslt, it takes a fe button presses to get a full coffee mug of espresso (yes, that’s how much we drink).
No Built In Grinder: You'll need pre ground espresso or a separate grinder. If you're going to use it regularly, freshly ground beans are worth the extra step.
Who Do I Recommend It For?
Beginners who want an easy first espresso machine
People who don't want to spend hundreds of dollars
Anyone with limited counter space
Busy parents who want espresso without a long setup
Coffee drinkers who want to make espresso, Americanos, lattes, and cappuccinos at home
Tips
Upgrade to Using a Grinder When You’re Ready: Fresh ground beans play a role in the taste and quality of the coffee. If you want to get serious about this then consider a coffee grinder. This one is expensive but nice that it goes right into the espresso handle for easy use.
Use Organic Coffee: Organic coffee is well worth it if you’re a regular coffee drinker. Here are the best organic coffee brands.
Get Espresso Cups: I thought I could just put my coffee cup under but it didn’t fit. So we needed espresso cups. This turned out to be the toughest decision of the whole process. (Who knew there were so many kinds of espresso cups?!?)
Don’t Overfill It: If you fill the water to the top of the container, then it will slowly leak out of the bottom. It took us a few times to learn this lesson. Keep a cloth nearby.
My Experience
I've been using the AMZCHEF Compact Espresso Machine for several weeks and overall, I like it. It's compact, heats up quickly, and is extremely easy to use.
I also prefer the white design over the stainless steel look you see on a lot of espresso machines. It looks cleaner and more modern on the counter.
It does feel a little plasticy, but it has held up well so far. My biggest issue is that the amount of espresso dispensed dropped after the first week. It has since stayed consistent, but I now need a few extra button presses to fill the larger mug I prefer.
For the price, I still think it offers a lot. My main question is how well it holds up over time.
FAQ
How quickly does the AMZCHEF espresso machine heat up?
It heats up in approximately 30 seconds, which is one of the features I like for everyday use.
How much pressure does it produce?
The AMZCHEF uses a 20 bar pump. Keep in mind that grind size, dose, tamping, temperature, and extraction time also affect the quality of your espresso.
Does it have PID temperature control?
Yes. PID control helps maintain a more consistent brewing temperature during extraction.
Can it make lattes and cappuccinos?
Yes. It has a 360° stainless steel steam wand for frothing and texturing milk.
Can you customize the espresso shots?
Yes. You can use the preset single and double shots or customize the extraction time and volume.
Does it have a built-in grinder?
No. You'll need pre-ground coffee or a separate grinder. I prefer freshly ground beans if you're going to use the machine regularly.
How big is the AMZCHEF espresso machine?
It's approximately 12.5 inches deep, 7 inches wide, and 14.4 inches tall. The narrow 7 inch width is one of its advantages if counter space is limited.
Is the AMZCHEF good for beginners?
Yes. That's probably who I'd recommend it to most. It's easy to use right out of the box, but still gives you enough control to experiment as you get better at making espresso.
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