Do you enjoy making espresso at home and want to upgrade to a quality espresso machine that is more to your style? Forget the boring rectangular machines you are used to seeing. Instead, the Smeg offers a rounded shape reminiscent of the 1950s. In addition, it comes in a wide array of color options to best match your style.
This Smeg Espresso Machine Review will provide an overview of the features and what is included with the machine, discuss the unit’s pros and cons, and answer some common questions. The purpose of this review is to help you determine if the Smeg is right for you.
Smeg Espresso Machine Review
- User friendly control panel
- De-calc system alarm
- Up to 15 bar professional pressure
- Wand can be adjusted in different positions
- Removable steel cup tray for easy cleaning
Features
The Smeg’s aesthetics make it stand out from the competition. Instead of a boring boxy shape, the Smeg espresso machine offers more rounded edges and a skinnier design. If you like the retro 1950s look, this machine fits the bill. In addition, it is available in bold colors like bright red and pastel options, including pastel green and pastel blue.
The machine has a slim design and measures 12 inches by 13 inches by 6 inches. It weighs just 11 pounds, so if you need to move the machine around or store it out of the way, it should not be too cumbersome to move it. The cord is approximately 39 inches long. The device has stainless steel wrap and plastic-painted housing.
The cup holder is stainless steel. The steam lever is chrome zamak, and the base is chrome plated. Combined with your color selection, these elements give the Smeg espresso machine an attractive, appealing design.
Controls
At the top of the machine, there are three buttons. The control panel features just these three buttons, so the machine is easy to use. You can use these buttons to adjust the settings to your liking and choose whether you want to prepare single or double espresso. With the push of a button, you can also activate the machine’s steam function, perfect for frothing milk to make a cappuccino or a latte.
The Smeg does offer a flow stop function if you want to customize your coffee length. This machine can also adjust the coffee’s temperature and the water hardness. If you want to enjoy a cup of tea or just need hot water dispensed, this machine can do that as well.
Heating and Frothing
The heating system and pump pressure define espresso machines’ characteristics and greatly impact the quality of the coffee prepared. The Smeg espresso machine has a thermoblock heating system. This allows for the water to be ready to use faster and more precise temperature control. It is optimal for brewing, steaming, and the hot water function. Additionally, the Smeg espresso machine uses 15 bar pressure. This allows the machine to prepare perfect, consistent espresso.
There is also a milk wand on the machine. The frother allows you to mix steam, air, and milk to create a creamy, dense foam. Perfect for making beverages like cappuccinos at home.
Equipment
The machine’s filter holder is stainless steel. The Smeg comes with three filters included – one for single, one for double, and one for paper pods. In addition, you will easily know when it is time to descale your machine, thanks to the de-calc system alarm. The machine also has anti-slip feet to keep it secure on your countertop.
There is a removable water tank at the back of the unit that holds approximately 33 ounces. Additionally, you can remove the cup tray if you need more space. This allows you to use a taller mug as well.
What’s Included
- Espresso machine
- Stainless steel filter holder and three filters
Pros of the Smeg ECF01 Espresso Coffee Machine
- Unique visual design
- Numerous color options available
- The machine is not complicated to set up or use
- 15 bar pump
- Heats up quickly thanks to the thermoblock system
- Ability to use ground coffee or coffee pods
- The steam option creates delicious crema
Cons of the Smeg ECF01 Espresso Coffee Machine
- The plastic parts of the machine may break easier or show signs of wear
- This is a more basic espresso machine. If you prefer manually adjusting all the settings, be aware that this machine will not allow for that.
- High cost for a basic espresso machine.
- The Smeg ECF01 is a manual espresso machine, so you will need to use pre-ground coffee beans.
Smeg Espresso Machine Review
The Smeg Espresso Machine allows you to easily make espressos at home with just the push of a button. However, this manual espresso machine is a basic type machine, so it does not have all of the additional features if you want to experiment with settings to modify the taste of your espresso. Therefore, this machine is better suited for newer at-home espresso makers or those who do not want to bother with customizing settings.
Coffee machines are not known for being fun or unique, but this Smeg machine is. It offers a retro design with fun color options and a rounded, unique shape. The design of the Smeg machine is undoubtedly a unique selling point of this espresso machine.
The Smeg ECF01 espresso coffee tastes good. You can use coffee grounds or disposable coffee pods to prepare your espresso or espresso-based drinks. With the Smeg, the adjustable coffee temperature setting allows you to choose the best temperature for your preferences. Espresso making is easy with the user-friendly control panel. The steam wand is used as a milk frother to make beautiful velvety coffee.
You can choose the two cups setting to brew two shots of espresso simultaneously. The machine also has a stainless steel cup holder. The front of the Smeg machine has raised chrome lettering and a chrome zamak steam lever.
Additional Thoughts
It is easy to enjoy your first caffeine hit of the morning with the Smeg espresso coffee machine. A good cup of coffee is just a few button pushes away. I like that the coffee’s temperature can be adjusted to your liking. In addition, the water hardness level can be adjusted as well.
The hot water dispenser is a nice feature to have, especially if you want to prepare something like soup or a cup of tea. You can also choose to make a cappuccino or a latte with this machine. The frother mixes steam, air, and milk to create a quality foam that will allow for quality espresso-based drinks made in the comfort of your home.
Maintaining the machine is also simple thanks to the descaling light indicator. The water reservoir is located at the back of the machine. Easy cleaning is possible thanks to the removable pieces on the machine.
This unique espresso coffee machine has basic settings but allows you to make great coffee at home. The Smeg ECF01 has received over 150 ratings on Amazon and has earned 4.5 out of 5 stars.
How do you make espresso in a Smeg espresso machine?
First, place the ground coffee filter basket into the filter holder. You will need to choose between the one or two-cup basket based on your desired amount of espresso. Next, tamp the coffee grounds down, then attach the filter holder and lock it into place. Alternatively, you can use a coffee pod by placing the coffee pod filter basket into the filter holder and inserting the pod.
Next, place your cup or cups underneath the coffee spout. Ensure there is sufficient water in the water reservoir. Power the machine on, then press the coffee button (either one cup or two cups) to begin brewing your espresso.
How to Clean and Descale a Smeg Espresso Maker?
It is essential to regularly clean and descale the espresso maker to keep your machine running well. Not only does this help with owning the machine operating effectively, but it also extends the product’s lifespan.
The Smeg ECF01 has a warning light that shows when the machine needs to be decalcified (descaled). However, the machine does not have an automatic cleaning process, so you will need to complete this task independently.
After you use the milk wand, you should run steam through it to clean out the inside and avoid an accumulation of milk building up.
The drip tray on the machine is removable, making it very easy to clean. It also has a float to show when the drip tray must be emptied.
Smeg Espresso Machine FAQ
What Colors of Smeg Espresso Machines are available?
You can choose between black, cream, pastel blue, pastel green, pink, red, or white on the Smeg ECF01 espresso machine.
Does the SMEG espresso machine make regular coffee?
No, the machine only makes espresso.
Where are Smeg espresso machines made?
Smeg espresso machines are made in Italy.
How do you set up a SMEG espresso machine?
Turn on the machine and wait for the lights to stop flashing. Then, place a container under the steam wand, turn the steam valve on, and dispense 1/2 cup of water. Then, turn the steam valve off. Next, attach the filter holder and lock it into place.
To rinse the internal components before preparing your first cup of espresso, place a mug under the coffee spout and press the brew button. You will need to repeat this procedure about four or five times.
Does Smeg make a pod coffee machine?
Yes, the Smeg Lavazza uses Lavazza a modo mio capsules (pods).
Is the Smeg espresso machine worth it?
If you want a basic espresso machine with a unique look, the Smeg ECF01 is worth it.
What size tamper do I need for Smeg espresso machine?
The Smeg espresso machine uses a 51 mm tamper.
Is a Smeg espresso machine worth it?
The Smeg ECF01 espresso coffee machine is functional and fun. The espresso machine is worth the money if you are looking for an espresso machine with a unique design. I like the shape and color options available. It will certainly be a statement piece in your kitchen.
The ability to modify some settings is nice. For example, you can adjust the temperature and water hardness. However, unlike fancier espresso machines, you cannot control all of the settings that go into pulling the perfect shot of espresso on the Smeg ECF01. If you want full control over things such as pressure, this machine is likely too basic for you.
As far as coffee makers go, the Smeg espresso machine is worth your money if you primarily drink espresso or espresso-based drinks at home. The machine is pricey but offers some unique design features. With the Smeg ECF01, you can easily make lattes or cappuccinos from the comfort of your home with just the touch of a few buttons.
This espresso machine is more user-friendly than other more complex espresso machines, in part due to the simplicity of the buttons on the control panel. However, if you want the option to make additional beverages besides just espresso, this is not the product for you.
Smeg Espresso Machine Review Final Thoughts
The Smeg is built for an excellent coffee experience thanks to the design that supports an optimum temperature. The water temperature is an important factor in pulling a tasteful espresso shot, and this is easy to achieve with the Smeg.
Overall, you should consider your coffee preferences when deciding whether the Smeg espresso machine is worth it for you. You can enjoy a nice coffee at home, but your beverage options are limited with an espresso machine. However, suppose you primarily drink espresso or drinks that utilize espresso. In that case, this machine can handle it and prepare quality coffee with a consistent flavor without all the hassle.
The steam wand is powerful and can make high-quality foam for lattes or cappuccinos. All in all, the Smeg ECF01 espresso machine is worth the price based on its practicality, functionality, and visually appealing color and shape.
