Krups XP4030 Pump Espresso Machine
I was pleasantly surprised with this little machine, as I got it on sale and paid a fraction of what it retails for, and it does make a quite delicious espresso. It also is very simple to use, with few buttons and gadgets to confuse those who may not be familiar with espresso machines.
The machine is very solidly built, not like others I have purchased in the past that slide off the counter if you happen to jostly them accidentally. It also is very quiet compared to others I have owned. My last espresso maker sounded like a plane taking off on my counter, which is the last thing I like to hear in the morning while waiting for my espresso to brew!
My only complaint with this machine is that I cannot figure out how to steam the milk until it is very hot! Each time I have tried the milk turns out lukewarm, and isn't very frothy. I have tried different kinds of milk (skim, 1-2%, and whole) and nothing seems to change the fact that the milk simply will not warm.
Also, the frother nozzle seems to clog after one to two uses, which is frustrating, as I brew espresso two to three times a day. I do not mind having to clean it after every use, but I thought that it might have to be cleaned a little less often. All in all though, I would rate this machine four out of five stars, because for the price, it have definitely proven to be a great deal!
Pros
- very simple to use
- very solidly built
- very quiet compared to others
Cons
- I cannot figure out how to steam the milk until it is very hot
- frother nozzle seems to clog after one to two uses
Rating
4 out of 5