GE Profile Automatic Espresso Machine Review: Sleek and Flashy!

I’m going to take a guess and say that when you hear the name GE Appliances, you think ovens and washers, not espresso machines. So, my GE Profile Automatic Espresso Machine review might come as a bit of a surprise.

Still, I’ve got plenty to say about GE’s newest foray into the high end home espresso machine market. Hearing that won’t surprise you at all! So, can the GE Profile Automatic Espresso Machine enchant me with its superior features and functions? Let’s get to the business of finding out!

Solid budget machine

GE Profile Automatic Espresso Machine

Comes with a free light show

Compact design

Easy to use

Sleek user interface

Easy to clean

Small bean hopper

Limited grinder settings

CHECK PRICE

GE Profile Automatic Espresso Machine Overview

Just because GE can make jet engines doesn’t mean it can make a good super automatic. Big names like Jura and DeLonghi have been at this for years, so they’ve got their formula down pat.

However, GE has only recently become a player in the espresso machine market, starting with the GE espresso machine product lineup. Full disclosure: I’ve already reviewed the GE Profile Semi Automatic Espresso Machine. That semi automatic had some promising features, so I was excited to see how the GE Profile espresso machine measures up.

Before I get to the good stuff, I think it’s worth mentioning that there are two versions of the GE Profile Automatic Espresso Machine. One comes with a steam wand, and one doesn’t. So, if you don’t care about making a cappuccino or latte macchiato, you can save a hundred bucks with the wand-less version.

My GE Profile Automatic Espresso Machine review will focus on the version with the steam wand. Anyway, automatic espresso machine frother aside, these two have identical features.

Speaking of price, the GE Profile espresso machine is relatively affordable at $426.99. There are still cheaper super automatics out there, but it’s far from the priciest option you’ll find.

Overall, the GE Profile automatic espresso machine makes a good first impression. It’s sleek, compact and promises to pull your shots in just under 90 seconds. That’s an encouraging start for any super automatic, especially coming from a company that’s as new to the espresso game as GE is.

That doesn’t mean I’m sold on this thing. Still, I won’t give any spoilers for the rest of my GE Profile Automatic Espresso Machine review. You’ll just have to keep reading!

GE Profile Espresso Machine Features

From brewing with a single touch to WiFi connectivity, there’s no shortage of features to talk about in my GE Profile Automatic Espresso Machine review. So, let’s dive in!

Compact Design

One benefit to purchasing a super automatic espresso machine is that they tend to be relatively compact. You don’t need to worry about storing coffee gear like espresso tampers or portafilters. Plus, there’s rarely a huge bean hopper jutting out of the top.

That may not matter to everyone, but a compact espresso machine can be a big deal if you’re short on counter space. That’s why I’m bringing up the fact that the GE espresso machine measures just 7 inches (17 centimeters) across.

It’s currently the smallest espresso machine in GE’s lineup, even tinier than the version without the steam frother. Don’t ask me why the version without the milk system is bigger – the world may never know!

Either way, I wouldn’t count this one out if space is tight in your dorm room, studio apartment or RV.

User Interface

Since the GE espresso machine is all about being compact, it’s no surprise they’ve downsized the user interface. Most espresso machines have their buttons and LED screens on the front panel, but GE has done something a little different here.

The top of the machine transforms into a touch panel. You’ll find the power button here, as well as buttons that’ll make basic espresso recipes. No, you can’t program lattes with the touch of a button, but you can get an americano, lungo, hot water, steam or My Brew. That last one is just a ristretto shot, but you should be able to put that drink customization technology to work.

There are also indicators that’ll light up when it’s time to descale or you need to add coffee beans to the hopper.

While not everyone will like the touchscreen on top, it’s one of my favorite aspects of this machine. Not only does it add to the sleek, modern appeal, but it seems like I’ve finally found an espresso machine that doesn’t talk in coffee bean symbols.

With all that said, there is one thing I don’t like about the GE Profile: its illuminating spout. If you turn the GE Profile on, you’ll notice that the top of the spout lights up like a Christmas tree. Different colors mean different things – the machine is turning on, it’s grinding, it’s time to descale, the world is ending. Alright, I made that last one up, but you get the gist.

Some home baristas might like the flashy lights, but I feel like it just adds more work. There are enough color combinations that you’ll have to grab the user manual just to figure out what your coffee maker is trying to say. If I wanted something that taxed my brain, I’d stick with a home espresso machine!

WiFi Connectivity

Since the GE Profile Semi Automatic Espresso Machine has WiFi connectivity, I’m not surprised to see it’s also a feature on the automatic version. The SmartHQ app seems to be a trademark of the GE Profile lineup.

Do you need a smartphone to operate the GE Profile Automatic Espresso Machine? Technically, no. However, if you’d like an easier way to program strength and volume settings, that WiFi connectivity is going to come in handy. Plus, the app uses words to communicate, not flashing lights.

Bean Hopper

Given how compact GE has tried to make this machine, it’s no surprise they’ve hidden the bean hopper under a panel on top. The hidden hopper reminds me of one of those doors that leads to a secret room. Still, I do appreciate the space-saving design. That said, its 6.5 ounce (184 gram) capacity makes it smaller than a lot of the hoppers I’ve seen on super automatics.

My only complaint about this hopper is the same one I have about the water reservoir. While it might save space, it’s tinted so that it’s hard to see when you need to add more coffee beans. I guess the indicator light on top will tell you anyway, but it’d be nice to see for yourself.

Conical Burr Grinder

I’m willing to admit that conical burr grinders aren’t perfect, but they are the industry standard. The best Breville espresso machines use them, and so does the GE espresso machine.

Now, if you’re someone who likes to experiment with grind size, this may be where you’ll be a bit disappointed. The GE Profile only has five grind adjustment settings. That’s in sharp contrast with the 15 settings on the semi automatic version.

You’ve still got options that run from coarse to fine, but you don’t have a ton of room for experimentation. If you like your coffee strong enough to give you chest hair, I’m not sure the grinder is up to the task.

However, limited grind settings may not be a con for everyone. If you want to make great espresso without the work – which is kind of the whole point of a super automatic – five grind settings will work just fine. There’s limited room for error, and chances are, you’ll find a consistent grind size you like.

Water Reservoir

As I mentioned earlier in my GE Profile Automatic Espresso Machine review, I’ve got some beef with the design of this water tank. There’s a reason why most espresso machines use clear plastic water reservoirs. Namely, it makes it easy to tell when it’s time to refill the tank.

As sleek as this tinted removable water reservoir may be, that design comes at the cost of convenience. You’ll most likely need to pull the reservoir out to check the water level. Or, if that seems like too much of a chore, you can always wait for the indicator light to advise you to add more water.

I wouldn’t call this a dealbreaker, but it certainly adds an extra step. I would’ve even taken the silly fake crystal tank on the Jura ENA 4 over this!

Boiler

Remember when I said GE promises piping hot espresso in under 90 seconds? Well, there’s only one way they’re going to achieve that – with a thermoblock heating system. Technically, there are more efficient heating systems out there (I’m looking at you, ThermoJet). Still, a thermoblock will get the job done just fine.

Ninety seconds may not measure up to some of the high end, mega-efficient super automatics I’ve reviewed, but it’s hardly worth complaining about. You’ll still be able to whip up some great espresso on those mornings you’re rushing out the door. And that’s what really matters!

Milk Foam

If you ask me, a steam wand can make or break an espresso machine. It’s the difference between delicious steamed milk in your espresso macchiato and milk foam that doesn’t quite … foam. I’ve even compiled an entire list of the best latte machines, which should tell you how strongly I feel about my steamed milk.

The steam wand on the GE Profile may look a bit stiff, but it does rotate 90 degrees. Plus, it’s completely removable for easy cleaning. It also has built-in foam technology that performs differently, depending on the drink you want.

You’ll get airy milk foam for cappuccinos, and denser foam for lattes and macchiatos.That’s a feature you won’t find in every super automatic, even the ones sporting heftier price tags than this.

Oh, and the cherry on top? The GE Profile Automatic Espresso Maker comes with a stainless steel frothing pitcher. Experienced home baristas may already have one on hand, but if you’re a newbie, it’s one less extra thing you’ll need to buy.

Cup Height

If there’s one thing I’m not willing to adjust my opinion on, it’s adjustable coffee spouts. Sure, any espresso machine can fit espresso cups under the spout, but what about ceramic travel mugs or coffee thermoses?

The good news is that this isn’t a problem with the spout on the GE Profile. The spout smoothly adjusts to fit a variety of cup sizes – even those big, stylized coffee mugs in the back of your cabinet.

Warranty

If the best DeLonghi espresso machines come with warranties, I’d certainly expect one from GE. Fortunately, my expectations have been met. The GE espresso machine has a limited one year warranty.

Considering that most espresso machines don’t have warranties that last more than two years, I’d count this as a win. Anyway, in the unlikely case you encounter a manufacturer defect, GE will take care of everything.

How To Use the GE Profile Espresso Machine

Now that you’ve had a better look at the features in my GE Profile Automatic Espresso Machine review, it’s time to talk about how to use the thing.

Just as with a simple drip coffee maker, your first task is plugging in the machine and pressing the power button. You should see the touchscreen on top of the GE Profile light up. If you haven’t already, the machine will direct you to add water to the reservoir and beans to the hopper. You’ll probably do that automatically anyway, but a reminder never hurts.

Remember – the machine will need a few seconds to preheat. Thermoblocks may beat a regular stainless steel boiler any day of the week, but they’re still not instant.

Now, I know I’ve complained about the illuminating spout on this machine, but paying attention to the light will help you understand which phase of the brewing process your GE Profile is in. Rotating red signals that the machine is heating up and rotating white means it’s grinding. When it turns from light blue to magenta, that means it’s brewing. See, I told you it was complicated!

Drink Preparation

I’ll direct you to the user manual if you want to decode the rest of the flashing lights. For now, let’s talk about drink preparation. Once you’ve powered on the machine, you’ll be able to select from the touchscreen on top. With options like espresso, americano, lungo or the My Brew option, you’ll be able to whip up just about any black coffee specialty that you want.

Just make sure you’ve placed a cup under the spout before you select your drink of choice. It takes less than 90 seconds for the espresso to end up in your cup, so the GE Profile definitely moves quickly.

As for steaming milk for that fancy latte you want to make? No surprise here – you only need to press the steam button. You can use the included milk pitcher, which even has measurements on the side.

It’ll take a little practice before you’re able to make pretty designs, but stick with it. I mean, there’s no better way to impress your friends than with a beautiful latte

And that’s about all there is to preparing your favorite drinks with the GE Profile espresso machine. I wasn’t kidding when I said this machine has a One Touch Brew feature. Well, technically, it’s two if you count pressing the power button.

Anyway, it’s trying to make the brewing process as simple as possible. Personally, I think it does a pretty good job of it!

GE Profile Espresso Machine Cleaning

I can admit that I’m one of those clean freaks who enjoys cleaning and descaling their espresso machine. However, that doesn’t mean I want to do all the work. I still appreciate an espresso machine that makes that maintenance as brainless as possible. The GE Profile Automatic Espresso Machine isn’t shy about letting you know when it’s time to use a little elbow grease.

On the touchscreen, there are several indicator lights – including one for descaling, purging and emptying the drip tray and internal bean waste bin. So, you don’t have to keep track of how many coffees you’ve brewed since the last cleaning cycle.

Aside from the automatic cleaning cycles you’ll need to run, there is some manual maintenance involved too. Fortunately, the espresso maker does come with about just everything you need for that. You can wipe down the front of the machine with the microfiber cloth and non-abrasive cleaner. There are even included cleaning tablets and descaling agents.

Also, I don’t want to skip over what you’ll need to do for the brew group. Coffee grounds can build up in the coffee brewer, especially with regular use. GE recommends pulling it out and using the cleaning brush to keep it in tip-top shape.

Aside from wiping down the water tank and the bean hopper, that covers most of the maintenance required for the GE Profile. Is it the most low maintenance espresso machine around? No, but it’s pretty vocal about when that maintenance needs to happen. Ultimately, that’s really all you can ask for in an espresso machine.

GE Profile Espresso Machine Specifications

GE Profile Espresso Machine vs Others

So far, so good. Let’s continue this GE Profile Automatic Espresso Machine review by seeing how the thing measures up to the competition.

GE Profile Espresso Machine vs DeLonghi Magnifica ESAM 3300

The GE Profile is certainly the new kid on the block compared to the DeLonghi Magnifica ESAM 3300, which has been around for years and costs $379.95.

There are some pretty major differences between these two. While the GE Profile is all about embracing the sleek, modern look, the Magnifica couldn’t care less about being compact or stylish. It’s a no-frills fully automatic classic that’s even missing a display function.

What it does have is sturdy, durable housing and the capability to make great espresso. Between these two, I’d consider the DeLonghi Magnifica to be the safer option. There are no fancy LED lights or touchscreens, but it’ll get the job done really well.

See Also: DeLonghi Magnifica ESAM 3300 Hands-On Review 2024

GE Profile Espresso Machine vs Philips 3200 LatteGo

At $699.00, I wouldn’t consider the Philips 3200 LatteGo Espresso Machine to be a huge price jump from the GE Profile. I won’t pretend that I’ve gushed about the Philips 3200 like I have with the DeLonghi Dinamica Plus, but it’s got great value. That’s a compliment I’ll give to most of the LatteGo lineup, including the 2200 LatteGo and 4300 series.

It’s a bit clunkier, but I find that the display is more intuitive. You’ve also got the option to make a latte macchiato and cappuccino with the touch of a button. That’s more than I can say for the GE Profile espresso machine.

So is the option for a latte macchiato or cappuccino worth a few extra bucks? You’ll have to be the judge of that.

See Also: Philips 3200 LatteGo Hands-On Review 2024

GE Profile Espresso Machine vs Others Comparison Chart

Verdict: GE Profile Automatic Espresso Machine Review

Solid budget machine

GE Profile Automatic Espresso Machine

Comes with a free light show

Compact design

Easy to use

Sleek user interface

Easy to clean

Small bean hopper

Limited grinder settings

CHECK PRICE

Do I think the GE Profile is going to beat out some of the high end super automatics from Jura or DeLonghi? Probably not. With that said, my GE Profile Automatic Espresso Machine review has proved that this fully automatic is more than just bare bones. Finding an ergonomically designed espresso machine in this price range? You might as well be trying to find a needle in a haystack.

Still, I won’t pretend like investing in the GE Profile isn’t a risk. The manufacturer is still new to the espresso machine market, so only time will tell if it’s got the chops to be a big player.

So, if you’re willing to dish out a little bit more dough, an automatic from Gaggia, Jura or DeLonghi will almost always be the safer option.

GE Profile Espresso Machine  FAQ