Mr. Coffee Espresso Machine
Welcome to our ongoing series of coffee maker reviews and espresso maker reviews. Today we’re taking a look at the Mr Coffee espresso machine or more particularly the Mr. Coffee ECM160. This is a steam driven espresso machine and is one of the cheap espresso machines out there. I don’t say that pertaining to quality but rather that it can be had at a very cheap price. So if you’re looking for an inexpensive espresso maker as a first one for your home just to see how it is to make espresso based beverages at home, you ought to consider the ECM160.
Pump driven espresso machines offer better flavor extraction from your espresso beans, but you’ll also pay more for that feature. Steam driven espresso machines like the Mr Coffee espresso maker offers fine performance and unless you compare the flavor extraction side by side with a pump driven machine you’ll likely not be aware of the differences. And besides which, Mr. Coffee espresso machines are made by a reputable brand.
The Mr Coffee ECM 160 makes up to 4 “cups” of espresso at a time. And what I mean by that is it’ll make up to 4 shots of espresso. I usually like a doppio in my latte so for me this espresso maker will only make 2 espressos but if you have guests for after dinner, you can serve 4 singles. The other thing about this little unit is that it is small and enables the cord to be tucked away, so you can keep it in a cupboard until you need it. And the decanter is easy to use and pour from without you dripping espresso everywhere.
Here are just some of the features in the Mr. Coffee espresso machine:
- Steam driven espresso machine will pour up to 20 ounces of espresso for 4 drinks
- Frothing steamer is easily removable for ease of cleaning and creates creamy milk froth
- Decanter has easy to read measuring marks with a stay cool handle for ease of pouring
- Measuring scoop is included so you’re ready to go out of the box
- Cup warmes is handy for keeping espresso cups warm and removable drip tray for easy cleaning
Now you’ll notice above that the Mr Coffee espresso machine ECM160 will pour up to 20 ounces of espresso and that’s quite a bit. Though personally at that strength I find you’re drinking Americanos rather than espresso. I just haven’t been able to pack in enough espresso beans into the portafilter to get a robust flavor of espresso at 20 ounces. You’re better off just using enough water for between 8 and 12 ounces for a really nice strong espresso base.
Here is what one satisfied customer had to say about their Mr. Coffee espresso machine:
Review shortened for space – Click here for complete review
Let me tell ya, this little machine is great. First, it is super super quiet. Secondly, it takes up little space. Third, it’s fairly nice looking and matches our coffee maker. And of course last, it makes great lattés. This one does the job and won’t cause ear trauma. – C. Tornado