Choosing the best Philips espresso machine is no easy task. I mean, this powerhouse manufacturer has so many fantastic options on the market. With that in mind, I’ve taken it upon myself to present you with a guide to all of my very favorite Philips espresso machines.
I’ll discuss the brand’s fully automatic and semi-automatic models, as well as the pros and cons of buying a Philips espresso machine. Heck, I’ll even throw in a few things to consider as you narrow down your search. So, let’s get right down to business!
Table of Contents
The 8 Best Philips Espresso Machines at a Glance:
Here’s a quick look at my picks for the best Philips espresso machines:
Philips Baristina
Compact footprint
Easy to use
Good alternative to pod machines
Easy to clean
Intuitive user interface
Makes sublime milk foam
Background on Philips
Unlike brands such as DeLonghi and Gaggia, Philips didn’t start as a coffee company. Rather, the Dutch manufacturer’s early products included things like lightbulbs and medical equipment.
Still, by the early 2000s, Philips was making a killing with its Senseo coffee maker. And while this machine used coffee pods, it represented an important step forward in the development of fully automatic espresso machines.
Things got even better for Philips in 2009, when it acquired Italian manufacturer Saeco. In doing so, Philips now had access to true Italian espresso expertise and wasted no time developing its own line of more advanced espresso machines. This led to Saeco being somewhat sidelined, which is a shame, seeing as the Saeco Xelsis is one of the best fully automatic espresso machines I’ve tested.
As we’ll see, Philips mainly focuses on high-performance, user-friendly super automatics. However, in recent years, the Dutch giant has released a couple of pretty great semi-automatic espresso machines. In all cases, there’s an emphasis on reasonable pricing and high-quality components. I guess that’s why these machines continue to sell like hot cakes the world over!
Best Philips Espresso Machine: Advantages and Disadvantages
As you already know, I’m a big fan of what Philips produces. With that said, there’s no such thing as the perfect coffee machine. Let’s take a brief look at the strengths and weaknesses of the best Philips espresso machines.
Advantages
Philips espresso machines are extremely competitively priced, with even the most advanced model often available for under $1,000.00.
Philips prioritizes sustainability, using recycled materials in the construction of its machines wherever possible.
The manufacturer’s fully automatic machines are extremely user-friendly. Thanks to their intuitive user interfaces, it’s easy to customize drinks to your liking.
The Philips LatteGo automatic milk frothing system not only performs well, it’s easy to use and clean.
There’s a wide range of Philips espresso machines on offer, ranging from simple and affordable models to more advanced machines with expanded menus and multiple user profiles.
Philips espresso machines are impressively easy to clean and maintain. Fully automatic models have removable brew groups and dishwashable parts.
Disadvantages
There’s always a lot of plastic used in the construction of Philips espresso machines.
I’ve always found Philips grinders to be rather too loud in operation.
It can be difficult (but not impossible) to get full-bodied espresso from even the best Philips espresso machine.
What Coffee to Use in a Philips Espresso Machine?
Coffeeness Medium Roast Espresso
Well-balanced with chocolate & hazelnut notes
Freshly roasted in Brooklyn
Very low acidity
Having tested all the best Philips espresso machines on the market, I’ve always got the best results when using my Coffeeness Signature Espresso Blend. I’ve tested espresso, black coffee and latte macchiato, all of which displayed notes of chocolate, hazelnut and caramel.
It all depends on the beans: if you put something good in at the top, something good will come out at the bottom!
Make sure to check out individual machine reviews to find my recommended settings for our Coffeeness coffee beans.
Philips Fully Automatic Espresso Machines
When it comes to releasing fully automatic espresso machines, Philips isn’t afraid to keep pumping ’em out at a rate of knots. Fortunately, that just means you have a wide selection to choose from.
While there are significant differences between series, all come with pretty great ceramic burr grinders. What’s more, when you’re buying a Philips automatic coffee machine, you can be confident in its durability and longevity. As for the price-performance ratio of these machines, it’s quite astonishing how affordable they are, especially when compared to the competition.
Philips 5500 LatteGo: Best Overall
Impressive price-performance ratio
Philips 5500 Series LatteGo
A fully automatic machine for small households
Super quiet in operation
Makes great coffee
Easy to use
Easy to clean
No one-touch iced drinks
| Philips 5500 Series LatteGo | |
| Manufacturer | Philips |
|---|---|
| Model number | EP5544/94 |
| Product category | Super automatic espresso machine |
| Removable brew group | |
| Housing material | Plastic with stainless steel parts |
| Color options | Grey Chrome |
| Milk frother | Integrated carafe |
| User interface | Color TFT with buttons |
| App | |
| User profiles | 4 |
| Removable water reservoir | |
| Water reservoir capacity | 60.9 fl oz / 1.8 l |
| Number of boilers | 1 |
| Pump pressure | 15 bar |
| Maximum cup height | 5.9 in / 15.0 cm |
| Minimum cup height | 3.4 in / 8.6 cm |
| Grinder | Ceramic flat burr grinder |
| Grind adjustment levels | 12 |
| Bean hopper capacity | 9.9 oz / 280.0 g |
| Pre-ground coffee bypass | |
| Grounds discard container capacity | 12 |
| Specialty drinks | 20 |
| Pre-infusion | |
| Adjustable coffee temperature | |
| Adjustable milk foam temperature | |
| Adjustable milk temperature | |
| 2-cup function | Yes (non-milk drinks only) |
| Pot function | |
| Hot water function | |
| Hot milk function | |
| Milk foam only option | |
| Water filter | |
| Power consumption | 1500 W |
| Weight | 17.6 lb / 8.0 kg |
| Dimensions | 17.0 x 14.6 x 9.6 in |
| Warranty | 2 years |
| Notes | Included Accessories: User manual, water hardness test strip, measuring cup, cleaning supplies, water filter |
| Current price on Amazon | $1,299.95 |
| All specifications | |
Costing $1,299.95, the Philips 5500 LatteGo is the manufacturer’s most expensive espresso machine. However, as I pointed out in my review, it’s actually a real bargain for what you get.
In my opinion, the 5500 LatteGo represents the pinnacle of Philips coffee machine development, and the design team obviously put a lot of effort into improving the perceived faults present in other machines. For example, thanks to its SilentBrew Technology, the 5500’s grinder runs quietly and efficiently. What’s more, the LatteGo milk foam arrives at the perfect temperature.
Featuring a bright touchscreen display, the Philips 5500 LatteGo offers a menu of around 20 specialty drinks. Plus, there are four user profiles on board, so everyone can tweak their favorites and save the settings for next time. During my testing I was impressed by the 5500’s sleek design and relatively compact footprint. And best of all, the machine consistently produced delicious, full-bodied espresso.
ee Also: Philips 5500 LatteGo Review
Philips 2200 Series: Best Budget
Strong competitor
Philips 2200 Series
Philips is best for pared-back basics
Simple and intuitive handling
Good beverage temperature
Good espresso and milk foam
Great value for money
Relatively large bean compartment
Pump somewhat loud
All plastic
| Philips 2200 Series | |
| Manufacturer | Philips |
|---|---|
| Model number | EP2220/14 |
| Product category | Super automatic espresso machine |
| Removable brew group | |
| Housing material | Plastic with stainless steel parts |
| Color options | Black |
| Milk frother | Steam wand |
| User interface | Touch screen with buttons |
| App | |
| User profiles | Memo function only |
| Removable water reservoir | |
| Water reservoir capacity | 60.9 fl oz / 1.8 l |
| Number of boilers | 1 |
| Pump pressure | 15 bar |
| Maximum cup height | 6.9 in / 17.5 cm |
| Minimum cup height | 3.3 in / 8.4 cm |
| Grinder | Ceramic flat burr grinder |
| Grind adjustment levels | 12 |
| Bean hopper capacity | 9.5 oz / 270.0 g |
| Pre-ground coffee bypass | |
| Grounds discard container capacity | 12 |
| Specialty drinks | 2 |
| Pre-infusion | |
| Adjustable coffee temperature | |
| Adjustable milk foam temperature | |
| Adjustable milk temperature | |
| 2-cup function | Yes (non-milk drinks only) |
| Pot function | |
| Hot water function | |
| Hot milk function | |
| Milk foam only option | |
| Water filter | |
| Power consumption | 1450 W |
| Weight | 20.3 lb / 9.2 kg |
| Dimensions | 17.1 x 9.7 x 14.6 in |
| Warranty | 1 year |
| Notes | Included Accessories: Grease tube, Water hardness test strip, measuring scoop, User manual. |
| Current price on Amazon | $749.00 |
| All specifications | |
Seeing as it’s currently available for the stupidly low price of $N/A, it was a no-brainer to award the Philips 2200 Series the title of “Best Budget” Philips espresso machine.
But it’s not just the affordability factor that influenced my decision. As it happens, this splendid automatic machine can easily compete with other budget-friendly models like the DeLonghi Magnifica S.
Sure, the Philips 2200 Series features a lot of plastic, but that’s to be expected at this price point. And while the user interface is simply an array of backlit buttons and icons, don’t be fooled by its apparent simplicity; there’s a lot you can do to dial in your espresso with this machine. Besides, the 2200 Series has the same 12-step ceramic grinder as its more expensive siblings.
Like the aforementioned DeLonghi machine, the Philips 2200 Series is equipped with a manual steam wand rather than an automatic frother. Still, it’s easy to use and can produce perfectly decent milk foam. Ultimately, the Philips 2200 is a straightforward super automatic machine that gets the job done. And while it doesn’t make the best espresso in the world, you just can’t argue with the price.
See Also: Philips 2200 Series Review
Philips 2300 LatteGo: Best Value
Strong competitor
Philips 2200 Series
Philips is best for pared-back basics
Simple and intuitive handling
Good beverage temperature
Good espresso and milk foam
Great value for money
Relatively large bean compartment
Pump somewhat loud
All plastic
| Philips 2200 Series | |
| Manufacturer | Philips |
|---|---|
| Model number | EP2220/14 |
| Product category | Super automatic espresso machine |
| Removable brew group | |
| Housing material | Plastic with stainless steel parts |
| Color options | Black |
| Milk frother | Steam wand |
| User interface | Touch screen with buttons |
| App | |
| User profiles | Memo function only |
| Removable water reservoir | |
| Water reservoir capacity | 60.9 fl oz / 1.8 l |
| Number of boilers | 1 |
| Pump pressure | 15 bar |
| Maximum cup height | 6.9 in / 17.5 cm |
| Minimum cup height | 3.3 in / 8.4 cm |
| Grinder | Ceramic flat burr grinder |
| Grind adjustment levels | 12 |
| Bean hopper capacity | 9.5 oz / 270.0 g |
| Pre-ground coffee bypass | |
| Grounds discard container capacity | 12 |
| Specialty drinks | 2 |
| Pre-infusion | |
| Adjustable coffee temperature | |
| Adjustable milk foam temperature | |
| Adjustable milk temperature | |
| 2-cup function | Yes (non-milk drinks only) |
| Pot function | |
| Hot water function | |
| Hot milk function | |
| Milk foam only option | |
| Water filter | |
| Power consumption | 1450 W |
| Weight | 20.3 lb / 9.2 kg |
| Dimensions | 17.1 x 9.7 x 14.6 in |
| Warranty | 1 year |
| Notes | Included Accessories: Grease tube, Water hardness test strip, measuring scoop, User manual. |
| Current price on Amazon | $749.00 |
| All specifications | |
In most ways, the Philips 2300 LatteGo is similar to the 2200 series, in that it’s simple, compact and relatively limited in its scope of performance. However, it’s the addition of the wonderful tubeless LatteGo automatic milk system that sets this model apart. Oh, and the fact that you’ll have to shell out a little more – the Philips 2300 LatteGo costs $699.99.
Although the 2300’s menu only features cappuccino as a one-touch specialty milk drink, there are plenty of ways to tweak settings. So, espresso macchiato fans will be satisfied, even if they might find the milk foam to be overly bubbly.
Speaking of adjusting settings, the 2300 LateGo’s user interface isn’t as intuitive as the brand’s more advanced models. However, once I’d figured it out, I was rewarded by some very good espresso with distinct notes of chocolate and marzipan.
The Philips 2300 LatteGo is far from perfect, but the price is right and it delivers the goods. Heck, I’d say this is one of the best value fully automatic espresso machines on the market right now.
See Also: Philips 2300 LatteGo Review
Philips 3200 LatteGo
Entry-level with minor pitfalls
Philips 3200 LatteGo
Thoughtful simplicity and decent coffee
Highly intuitive operation
Good espresso and milk froth
High-quality construction
Compact
A little noisy
Milk froth can be rather dense
| Philips 3200 LatteGo | |
| Manufacturer | Philips |
|---|---|
| Model number | EP3241/6 |
| Product category | Super automatic espresso machine |
| Removable brew group | |
| Housing material | Plastic |
| Color options | Glossy Black/Silver |
| Milk frother | Integrated carafe |
| User interface | Text display with buttons |
| App | |
| User profiles | Memo function only |
| Removable water reservoir | |
| Water reservoir capacity | 60.9 fl oz / 1.8 l |
| Number of boilers | 1 |
| Pump pressure | 15 bar |
| Maximum cup height | 6.9 in / 17.5 cm |
| Minimum cup height | 3.3 in / 8.4 cm |
| Grinder | Ceramic flat burr grinder |
| Grind adjustment levels | 12 |
| Bean hopper capacity | 9.5 oz / 270.0 g |
| Pre-ground coffee bypass | |
| Grounds discard container capacity | 12 |
| Specialty drinks | 5 |
| Pre-infusion | |
| Adjustable coffee temperature | |
| Adjustable milk foam temperature | |
| Adjustable milk temperature | |
| 2-cup function | Yes (non-milk drinks only) |
| Pot function | |
| Hot water function | |
| Hot milk function | |
| Milk foam only option | |
| Water filter | |
| Power consumption | 1500 W |
| Weight | 17.7 lb / 8.0 kg |
| Dimensions | 17.0 x 10.0 x 15.0 in |
| Warranty | 2 years |
| Notes | Included Accessories: Measuring scoop, Water hardness test strip, AquaClean filter, Lubricant, LatteGo storage lid |
| Current price on Amazon | $799.00 |
| All specifications | |
During my review of the Philips 3200 LatteGo, I was left feeling like there isn’t a whole lot to make this machine stand out from the crowd. Still, it’s a solid, no-frills super automatic that won’t break the bank. I mean, let’s face it, the 3200’s $N/A is hard to beat.
The 3200 LatteGo is minimalist in every aspect, from its design to its specialty drink menu. But as with all Philips fully automatic machines, its user interface features intuitive sliders for adjusting drink settings. Plus, there’s a one-touch americano on the menu, which isn’t always a given when you buy a super automatic. Oh, and the machine’s LatteCrema milk system works as well as you’d expect, and cleaning is an absolute breeze.
One thing I noticed during my testing is that the 3200 LatteGo’s pump is better able to handle finer grind settings, which sets the machine apart from its more affordable siblings. What’s more, I enjoyed truly delicious espresso from this machine. On the other hand, the coffee is a bit thin and watery, which only makes the one-touch americano even more appealing.
See Also: Philips 3200 LatteGo Review
Philips 3300 LatteGo
Super quiet
Philips 3300 LatteGo
Surprisingly awesome
Very quiet in operation
Tasty espresso
Straightforward user interface
Easy to clean
Beautiful milk foam
Inaccurate marketing
Hard to adjust coffee volume
| Philips 3300 LatteGo | |
| Manufacturer | Philips |
|---|---|
| Model number | EP3347/90 |
| Product category | Super automatic espresso machine |
| Removable brew group | |
| Housing material | Plastic with stainless steel parts |
| Color options | Black |
| Milk frother | Integrated carafe |
| User interface | Buttons and dials |
| App | |
| User profiles | 1 |
| Removable water reservoir | |
| Water reservoir capacity | 60.9 fl oz / 1.8 l |
| Number of boilers | 1 |
| Pump pressure | 15 bar |
| Maximum cup height | 5.5 in / 14.0 cm |
| Minimum cup height | 3.0 in / 7.6 cm |
| Grinder | Ceramic flat burr grinder |
| Grind adjustment levels | 12 |
| Bean hopper capacity | 9.9 oz / 280.0 g |
| Pre-ground coffee bypass | |
| Grounds discard container capacity | 12 |
| Specialty drinks | 6 |
| Pre-infusion | |
| Adjustable coffee temperature | |
| Adjustable milk foam temperature | |
| Adjustable milk temperature | |
| 2-cup function | Yes (non-milk drinks only) |
| Pot function | |
| Hot water function | |
| Hot milk function | |
| Milk foam only option | |
| Water filter | |
| Power consumption | 1350 W |
| Weight | 17.6 lb / 8.0 kg |
| Dimensions | 14.5 x 9.5 x 17.0 in |
| Warranty | 2 years |
| Notes | Included Accessories: User manual, Measuring scoop, Water hardness test strip, AquaClean filter, Lubricant, LatteGo storage lid |
| Current price on Amazon | BUY NOW ON AMAZON |
| All specifications | |
On the surface, it’s difficult to find much difference between the Philips 3300 LatteGo and the aforementioned 3200 LatteGo. Sure, the 3300 has an iced coffee option on the menu, and the dispensing spouts move both higher and lower, but other than that, the machines seem to be almost identical.
So, why does the Philips 3300 LatteGo cost $N/A? Well, during my testing, I definitely noticed improvements in both espresso and milk foam quality. The espresso was rich, complex and full-bodied, while the LatteGo milk foam impressed me with its creamy consistency. What’s more, the Philips 3300 LatteGo is one of the quietest fully automatic espresso machines I’ve used.
Elsewhere, the 3300 LatteGo brings everything to the table that you’d expect from a Philips machine, including a ceramic burr grinder with 12 settings and intuitive sliders for adjusting coffee temperature, strength and size.
Ultimately, I was left feeling like the Philips 3300 LatteGo represents excellent value for money. Sure, I was distinctly underwhelmed by the iced coffee function, but that’s easy to ignore. This thing makes fantastic espresso and milk-based specialties, and that’s all that really matters.
See Also: Philips 3300 LatteGo Review
Philips 4300 LatteGo
Pimped out Philips 3200
Philips 4300 LatteGo
Great value for the price
Great espresso
Thick, creamy milk froth
Ceramic burr grinder
Easy to clean
A little noisy
| Philips 4300 LatteGo | |
| Manufacturer | Philips |
|---|---|
| Model number | EP4347 |
| Product category | Super automatic espresso machine |
| Removable brew group | |
| Housing material | Plastic |
| Color options | Black/Silver |
| Milk frother | Integrated carafe |
| User interface | Color TFT with buttons |
| App | |
| User profiles | 3 |
| Removable water reservoir | |
| Water reservoir capacity | 60.9 fl oz / 1.8 l |
| Number of boilers | 1 |
| Pump pressure | 15 bar |
| Maximum cup height | 6.9 in / 17.5 cm |
| Minimum cup height | 3.3 in / 8.4 cm |
| Grinder | Ceramic flat burr grinder |
| Grind adjustment levels | 12 |
| Bean hopper capacity | 9.5 oz / 270.0 g |
| Pre-ground coffee bypass | |
| Grounds discard container capacity | 12 |
| Specialty drinks | 8 |
| Pre-infusion | |
| Adjustable coffee temperature | |
| Adjustable milk foam temperature | |
| Adjustable milk temperature | |
| 2-cup function | Yes (non-milk drinks only) |
| Pot function | |
| Hot water function | |
| Hot milk function | |
| Milk foam only option | |
| Water filter | |
| Power consumption | 1500 W |
| Weight | 17.7 lb / 8.0 kg |
| Dimensions | 9.7 x 14.6 x 17.0 in |
| Warranty | 2 years |
| Notes | Included Accessories: Measuring scoop, Water hardness test strip, AquaClean filter, Lubricant, LatteGo storage lid |
| Current price on Amazon | $699.00 |
| All specifications | |
It blows my mind that the Philips 4300 LatteGo will set you back just $699.00 on Amazon right now. Especially given how advanced this machine actually is.
Seriously, the Philips 4300 LatteGo truly impressed me during my testing, even if I was disappointed by the amount of plastic used in its construction. Not only did the machine consistently produce excellent espresso, I found it very easy to use, thanks to an improved user interface. Here, you’ll find a TFT display surrounded by buttons, and let’s just say you won’t ever need the user manual.
There are a variety of specialty drinks on offer, as well as five adjustment settings for coffee strength and size. Best of all, the Philips 4300 LatteGo offers two user profiles for saving your favorite drinks. Compared to a machine like the DeLonghi Dinamica Plus, the 4300 LatteGo can easily hold its own. And while it isn’t quite as sophisticated as the Italian star, the 4300’s price-performance ratio is pretty unreal.
What else can I say? I absolutely love this fully automatic machine!
See Also: Philips 4300 LatteGo Review
Philips Semi-Automatic Espresso Machines
As I mentioned earlier, Philips has recently taken some baby steps into the semi-automatic espresso machine market. More specifically the hybrid market – espresso machines with grinders on board. In my opinion, Philips has seen how well manufacturers like Breville are doing and have decided to try for a piece of the pie.
And while the two machines you’re about to read about are definitely worth considering, I don’t think the Australian powerhouse will be feeling overly concerned. Then again, as with all the best Philips espresso machines, both the Baristina and Barista Brew are extremely competitively priced.
Philips Baristina: Best for Small Spaces
A compact beginner machine
Philips Baristina Espresso Machine
Semi-automatic or fully automatic?
Compact footprint
Easy to use
Easy to clean
Few customizable settings
Lots of plastic
| Philips Baristina Espresso Machine | |
| Manufacturer | Philips |
|---|---|
| Model number | BAR300 |
| Product category | Hybrid espresso machine |
| Housing material | Plastic |
| Color options | Black, White |
| Milk frother | None |
| User interface | Buttons and dials |
| App | |
| User profiles | Memo function only |
| Portafilter size | 51 mm |
| Tamping | Automatic |
| Removable water reservoir | |
| Water reservoir capacity | N/A |
| Number of boilers | 1 |
| Pump pressure | 16 bar |
| Maximum cup height | 5.0 in / 12.7 cm |
| Grinder | Ceramic flat burr grinder |
| Grind adjustment levels | N/A |
| Bean hopper capacity | 6.0 oz / 170.0 g |
| Specialty drinks | 2 |
| Pre-infusion | |
| Adjustable coffee temperature | |
| Adjustable milk foam temperature | |
| 2-cup function | No |
| Hot water function | |
| Hot milk function | |
| Milk foam only option | |
| Water filter | |
| Power consumption | 1350 W |
| Weight | 12.0 lb / 5.4 kg |
| Dimensions | 13.0 x 7.0 x 16.0 in |
| Warranty | 1 year |
| Notes | Includes user manual |
| Current price on Amazon | BUY NOW ON AMAZON |
| All specifications | |
Released just last year, the Philips Baristina is somewhat of a curious addition to the espresso machine market. This compact machine is somewhere between a semi-automatic and a fully automatic model, and while it has a portafilter, the Baristina takes care of pretty much everything. In saying that, I’m referring to the fact that the Baristina grinds, doses and tamps your espresso without needing any input from the user. Plus, you aren’t able to adjust the grind settings at all.
Now, this obviously isn’t the machine for serious espresso enthusiasts. However, if you want to move away from pod machines, the Philips Baristina could be an ideal solution. I mean, it’s easy to use, doesn’t take up much space and actually makes pretty darn good espresso. Oh, and best of all, you’ll be drinking coffee from freshly ground beans instead of pods that have been sitting on a supermarket shelf for weeks.
Costing $449.99, the Philips Baristina is rather pricey for what it is. Still, I think those looking for good espresso without having to develop any barista skills will benefit from this pint-sized machine.
See Also: Philips Baristina Espresso Machine Review
Philips Barista Brew: Best for Authentic Espresso
A solid hybrid espresso machine
Philips Barista Brew Semi-Automatic Espresso Machine
Plenty of thoughtful features
58mm portafilter
Adjustable PID
Great selection of accessories
Easy to use
Understated design
Less than convincing grinder
| Philips Barista Brew Semi-Automatic Espresso Machine | |
| Manufacturer | Philips |
|---|---|
| Model number | PSA3218/01 |
| Product category | Manual espresso machine |
| Housing material | Stainless steel |
| Color options | Silver |
| Milk frother | Steam wand |
| User interface | Buttons and dials |
| App | |
| User profiles | Memo function only |
| Portafilter size | 58 mm |
| Tamping | Manual |
| Removable water reservoir | |
| Water reservoir capacity | 77.8 fl oz / 2.3 l |
| Number of boilers | 1 |
| Pump pressure | 15 bar |
| Maximum cup height | 3.7 in / 9.4 cm |
| Grinder | Stainless steel conical burr grinder |
| Grind adjustment levels | 15 |
| Bean hopper capacity | 8.8 oz / 250.0 g |
| Specialty drinks | 4 |
| Pre-infusion | |
| Adjustable coffee temperature | |
| Adjustable milk foam temperature | |
| 2-cup function | Yes (non-milk drinks only) |
| Hot water function | |
| Hot milk function | |
| Milk foam only option | |
| Water filter | |
| Power consumption | 1350 W |
| Weight | 19.0 lb / 8.6 kg |
| Dimensions | 16.1 x 12.6 x 13.2 in |
| Warranty | 2 years |
| Notes | Included Accessories: User manual, 4 x filter baskets, espresso stand, calibrated tamper, Milk jug, cleaning brush |
| Current price on Amazon | $411.96 |
| All specifications | |
I tested the Philips Barista Brew Semi-Automatic Espresso Machine when it first came out a couple of years ago. I have to say that I wasn’t blown away by the machine’s performance. However, with a little effort, I was able to make some very good espresso and silky milk foam.
Here’s the thing: The Philips Barista Brew has a lot going for it, including an adjustable PID, customizable pre-infusion and a built-in stainless steel conical burr grinder. Plus, this hybrid espresso machine comes with a professional 58mm portafilter, a nice metal tamper and a fancy milk pitcher. To be honest, that’s all very impressive, but when you factor in the $411.96 asking price, it seems too good to be true!
Listen, there are better semi-automatic machines out there, and some might argue that this is just a Breville Barista Express ripoff. However, the Philips Baritsa Brew is easy to use and allows home baristas to experiment with settings. It’s not the best home espresso machine out there, but I recommend it most highly.
See Also: Philips Barista Brew Review
Choosing the Best Philips Espresso Machine: What to Consider
As I mentioned at the start of this guide, you may have a hard time deciding on the best Philips espresso machine for your needs. So, as promised, I’ve come up with a few things to consider before committing.
Price
As we’ve seen throughout this guide, all my best Philips espresso machine picks are easy on your wallet. Still, how much money you’re willing to spend will definitely influence your decision.
If you’re thinking about pushing your budget to its outer reaches, think about whether the machine’s extra features are worth the additional investment. I mean, most Philips fully automatic machines share core features like a ceramic burr grinder and LatteGo milk system. So, do you really need an iced coffee function or user profiles?
Finally, think about how often you’ll use the machine. For example, if buying it means you won’t be dropping five bucks at the coffeeshop every day, it’ll quickly pay for itself!
Fully Automatic vs Semi-Automatic
At this point, you probably already know which type of espresso machine you want.
A fully automatic model offers ultimate convenience in that it does most of the work for you. While you can adjust settings to a limited degree, the machine takes care of dosing and tamping, so you’re able to simply press a button for your morning coffee. Still, don’t forget that fully automatic machines require plenty of cleaning and maintenance.
On the other hand, a semi-automatic espresso machine is ideal for those looking for a more hands-on experience. So, if you relish the idea of developing your barista chops, consider the Philips Barista Brew as a solid entry-level option.
Size and Design
If you have acres of free counter space in your kitchen, feel free to ignore this section altogether. However, if things are a little tight, make sure to consider how a Philips espresso machine might fit into your setup.
I recommend pulling out the tape measure, paying close attention to overhead cabinets. Trust me, having to move your machine around to be able to access the bean container and water tank will get old really fast!
Milk System
You’re probably tired of hearing me rave about the Philips LatteGo milk system by now. Still, if you’re looking for a machine that’ll deliver beautiful milk foam on demand, there are plenty of options to choose from.
With that said, some of you might prefer the idea of steaming milk by hand. In that case, either the Philips 2200 Series or Philips Barista Brew will do the trick. Just remember that learning to steam milk manually takes time and effort!
Verdict: Which Is the Best Philips Espresso Machine for You?
As we’ve seen, Philips produces a wide range of fantastic espresso machines, all with entirely reasonable (and sometimes ridiculously low) price tags. In my opinion, you can’t go wrong with any of these machines, and there are so many to choose from that you’re sure to find one to suit your needs.
Whether you want something small and simple or big and bold, this Dutch manufacturer has you covered. And as long as you use high-quality beans in your chosen model, you can be assured of great coffee day in, day out!
What’s the best Philips espresso machine in your opinion? Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments section!
FAQs
The Philips 5400 is a great machine that offers a wide beverage selection, intuitive user interface and the manufacturer’s wonderful LatteGo automatic milk system.
While Philips and Saeco aren’t the same company, Philips did purchase the Italian manufacturer in 2009.
The Philips 5500 LatteGo is the manufacturer’s crown jewel. It offers everything from a touchscreen interface to an easy-to-clean automatic milk system.
