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Krups Steam Espresso Machine XP1020

by Laura
(New York, NY)

$
Krups XP1020
Espresso Machine

This is a high quality, affordable machine that is perfect for beginners. Mine has been just the answer for a couple of caffeine addicted roommates, a tiny Manhattan kitchen and only a few New York minutes to dedicate to pulling espresso shots. It is compact and simple enough that we use it every morning, but keep it on the shelf during the day when not in use.

The espresso brews quickly and produces a good amount of crema for such an unsophisticated machine. The minimal amount of buttons makes it unintimidating, especially for the milk steamer. A knob on the left simply turns the machine to brew, steam and off. While it would be nice to be able to vary the intensity of the steaming, it is pretty unnecessary for the average person just trying to make their morning espresso fix.

The drip tray is easy to clean and the machine comes with almost everything you need to start brewing right out of the box. The only thing missing is a milk thermometer which is strongly recommended to prevent bacteria. I also chose to use a metal triple shot pitcher rather than the glass crafe included, mostly just because I find it easier to clean and less fragile.

Don't expect to open up shop or even really entertain guests with this espresso machine as it takes at least 10 minutes in between brew/steam cycles to cool down. When allowed to cool down for at least this much time though, the second beverage comes out just as good as the first one. The main drawback is that the steamer kicks the bucket before the rest of the machine. Mine stopped working about a year and a half after I bought it, but at $60 that is still definitely a savings over to go lattes.


Comments for
Krups Steam Espresso Machine XP1020

Average Rating starstarstar

Click here to add your own comments

Mar 08, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		poor quality
by: Anonymous

It only lasted few months. I've replaced it 5 times. All have the same problem. Steamer will stop working. Waste of money and time. Do not buy it.
Sep 23, 2009
Rating
starstarstarstar 		A great little machine
by: Anonymous

Pros
- Fast with the espresso
- Keeps flavor in-not steamed out

Cons
- it does not clean very well
- steam runs out quickly

Rating
4 out of 5

I have enjoyed my espresso maker, It's small enough that it doesn't take up too much counter space, it's modern in design and it works really well. It is, as other espresso machines, difficult to clean at times, especially if you do not clean the steamer right away.

One thing that all espresso machines have in common is keeping up with all the pieces. Luckily this one is small enough that it will fit under the cabinet easily. I have only used KRUPS machines before due to their durability. The flavor of the espresso grounds are adequately processed and I have never had an issue with taste. You had better be quick with the steam however, or you will have to add more water to finish steaming the milk.

Overall this is a great little machine, when it eventually dies, I will buy another!
Aug 12, 2009
Rating
starstarstar 		Average and very loud
by: Anonymous

Pro
-Fast maker
-Make 4 cups at a time

Cons
-gets clogged
-make loud sounds

Well, this coffee maker is good for the price i paid for it which is around $65.00. However, if it go up against other espresso makers, it would'nt stand a chance. It is fast when it want s to be but loud at the same time and who wants that? iIt does get clogged often which is annoying but I try to put up with it. It does have a sleek desigh which is a plus and is a great size. Overall, it's just okay!!!
Aug 01, 2009
Rating
star 		Poor quality
by: Anonymous

I bought one of these machines from Sears about 2 weeks ago. It worked fine for several mornings, then the steamer completely quit working, even though it continued to make espresso. I plan to get something a little more up-scale.
Mar 17, 2009
Rating
starstarstarstar 		Great model for beginners
by: Stephanie

I bought the Krups XP1020 Espresso Maker from Sears because it was on sale and I had calculated the amount of money I spend going out for espresso. The machine ended up being cheaper and it is such a great investment. I only paid $65 for it and declined the warranty. I really liked that idea that I would be able to make my own cappuccinos and lattes in my pajamas. The stainless steal and design make it look like an expensive machine and it looks great on my kitchen counter.

This machine makes really dark and rich espresso. It makes up to 4 cups and you can use ground espresso or pods. The grounds basket is a little fidgety and sometimes I have to press down on it to get it to close tight. I made the mistake of not making sure it was closed and grounds just flew all over my counter. I really like the metal cup warming tray and use it frequently. It keeps my cappuccino warm and ready to go. The best part about the machine is that it has a removable drip tray so it’s very easy to clean.

The only negative remark I have is that frothing milk for cappuccino is a bit difficult since the wand is so close to the machine. I wish I could just move the frothing wand out further. It does take around 5 minutes to get the espresso made and is fairly loud and noisy. This is a great model for beginners and I would highly recommend it as a gift for college students our newlyweds. It is very easy to use and it doesn’t take up a lot of counter top space. I’ve had the Krups XP1020 for three months and am completely satisfied with this purchase. It does have a few downsides to it, but it’s a bargain compared to the amount I paid for it.

Jan 01, 2009
Rating
star 		Great Espresso.. until it stops making it
by: Anonymous

Gurgles and Chugs but no espresso after a month of using it once a day. Bought new, in the box @ Sears when remodeling kitchen. Makes great, frothy milk though. We've descaled, taken it apart, done everything we're supposed to (and not) to get our coffee fix. Still not working and I'm drinking tea, for goodness sakes. Sorry if I sound a little cranky...

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