GE Profile Semi Automatic Espresso Machine Review: Sure Thing or Shot in the Dark?

There’s a big difference between pulling a shot and taking a shot in the dark. Buying the GE Profile Semi Automatic Espresso Machine probably feels a lot like the second option, but that’s why you’re reading my GE Profile Semi Automatic Espresso Machine review, right?

Before you shell out $339.99 for this sleek machine, you’ll likely want as much information as possible. Well fear not, I’ll give you the rundown on everything you should know about this intriguing espresso maker. Let’s do this!

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 Semi Automatic Espresso Machine Review Overview

I’ve reviewed a lot of unknown or new brands in my time as a professional espresso machine reviewer, but GE isn’t one of them. Chances are, you’ve got at least one GE appliance sitting in your kitchen. Ovens, refrigerators, microwaves, washers – these guys have been kicking it for more than a century.

Still, GE’s foray into the world of home espresso machines is a relatively new venture. At least compared to brands like Breville and DeLonghi. As I’m writing my GE Profile Semi Automatic Espresso Machine review, there’s currently a three product lineup. Among those, the GE Profile is the only semi automatic.

Suffice to say, I can understand why some home baristas might have reservations about dropping a pretty penny on this espresso machine. However, I’m still willing to give the GE Profile a shot to prove itself, and my first impression is a good one.

The GE Profile is one of the more compact semi automatics I’ve come across. A lot of semi automatics get weighed down with roomy water tanks and bean hoppers. That’s why it’s a bit of a surprise to see the GE Profile only clocking in at 15 pounds (6.8 kilograms). Looks like I’ve finally found an espresso machine with grinder that won’t require a workout just to transport!

Ultimately, I think this machine’s appearance is one of my favorite things about it. Not only is it compact, its sleek user interface really gives it a modern edge. Listen, I love the classics as much as anyone else. Still, I can appreciate an espresso machine that looks (and feels) high-tech.

Of course, I’ve got plenty more to say in my GE Profile Semi Automatic Espresso Machine review, so stay tuned!

GE Profile Semi Automatic Espresso Machine Features

We all care about looks, but it’s what’s under the lid that really matters. If you want the scoop on the best features of this machine, you’ll need to keep reading my GE Profile Semi Automatic Espresso Machine review.

User Interface

Time to talk about the crowning feature of this espresso machine – its user interface. GE has traded analog buttons for a sleek touchscreen that feels more futuristic than I’d expect from a semi automatic.

When you’re not using it, the front panel resembles a blank slate. However, as soon as you press that power button, an LED strip lights up the middle of the panel. The color of the light correlates to what the machine is doing. For example, a red light means it’s preheating. Not everyone may appreciate this design choice, but I like knowing that my espresso machine is paying attention.

Once you get past the fact that it’s a touchscreen, the user interface on the GE Profile is nothing we haven’t seen before. You’ve got a button to select how much coffee you’d like to grind as well as buttons for choosing single or double shots.

Despite making most of its touchscreen display, GE did include a steam/hot water dial on the side. That’s pretty standard for a semi automatic although I would’ve liked to have seen GE do away with the dials completely. There’s nothing wrong with a steam knob, but if you’re going to use a modern interface, why not commit to the touchscreen?

That’s about all the function you’ll get out of the physical display, minus the Program button. You can change settings like shot volume and dose, but you can also do that through app connectivity.

It’s rare to see app connectivity on a semi automatic, but I’m not complaining! I’d rather use an app than spend several minutes digging through the user manual to find out which sequence of buttons will allow me to program the machine.

Bean Hopper

As far as the bean hopper goes, GE has taken a move out of the semi automatic playbook and placed theirs on top of the machine. It’s relatively large, holding up to 10 ounces (275 grams) of coffee beans.

Plus, the hopper is UV resistant. Now, why does this matter if your hopper isn’t getting a ton of sun? Even if the hopper isn’t sunbathing, air and light are the biggest enemies of fresh espresso beans. So, UV resistance does matter when it comes to keeping your beans fresh.

With that said, I don’t want to pretend as if GE has done something revolutionary here. It’s not unusual for external bean hoppers to be UV resistant, even if they’re not advertised as such.

Conical Burr Grinder

Just as you don’t get an egg without the chicken, you don’t get the bean hopper without the grinder. Don’t ask me if the hopper came before the grinder though – I’m still working that one out.

Jokes aside, I’ve got mixed feelings about the grinder on the GE Profile Semi Automatic Espresso Machine. A built in grinder is more convenient than a separate coffee grinder, but it’s not without issues. This machine uses a conical burr grinder, which might as well be the industry standard for semi automatics.

I’ve got no complaints about that, but I am a little disappointed with the lack of adjustment settings. The grinder only has 15 grind settings. While that’s hopefully enough room to find a setting you like, it doesn’t leave a ton of room for experimentation.

For the record, the Breville Barista Pro costs just about the same and packs double the grind settings. Names like Breville and DeLonghi already have a leg up on GE, so this is just another category where the competition wins.

Considering how much cash home baristas will need to dish out for this machine, 30 or even 45 settings would’ve given the GE Profile a lot more value. 15 grind settings will get the job done, but I suspect it’ll be limiting for some users too.

Dosing

One of the perks of having a built in grinder is that you often don’t need to deal with manual dosing. With its grinding cradle and doser, the GE Profile is no exception. Using the two buttons on the front panel, you’ll get precise dosing for single and double shots. Keep in mind that there is some wiggle room with the dosing.

For single and double shots, you can adjust the dosage by around 2 grams within the app. That may not seem like a lot, but the right dosage goes a long way. It can mean the difference between a watered-down cup of joe and full-bodied, flavorful espresso.

Plus, the grinding cradle is hands-free. If you ask me, the fewer hands involved, the better! I know that statement doesn’t ring true for every task (I probably wouldn’t want hands-free neurosurgery), but it’s a positive for preparing espresso.

Tamping

There is one manual thing you’ll need to do with the GE Profile: tamping. Remember, you’re still using a semi automatic, which means using a manual tamper and portafilter. Fortunately, you do receive a stainless steel tamper when you purchase the machine.

I suppose espresso tampers fall into the accessory category although they’re just as essential as any other component of the machine. You’re not going to get very far if you can’t even tamp your coffee grounds.

Still, most semi automatic or manual espresso machines come with a tamper. It’s like the plastic utensils you get with your takeout – it just comes with the goods. While I’m glad the GE Profile includes a metal tamper, I’d expect nothing less at this price range.

Portafilter

In case you’re wondering, the GE Profile Semi Automatic Espresso Machine is packing a 58 millimeter portafilter. This is a pretty standard size for a lot of semi automatics, including big names like the Gaggia Classic.

What’s great about larger portafilters like this is that you’ll get better distribution of your coffee grounds than with something smaller. With that said, many baristas prefer 54 millimeter portafilters, claiming they don’t suffer from as much channeling during extraction.

App

Remember that app connectivity that I mentioned earlier in my GE Profile Semi Automatic Espresso Machine review? The GE Profile can sync with the SmartHQ app, which provides an easier way to change dose and volume settings as well as deal with software updates.

If you don’t want to sync your machine to the app, you can also use the Program button on the front panel. Honestly, I’d argue that app connectivity is one of this machine’s biggest perks. Without it, the GE Profile has no real advantage over most of the competition.

Still if a little tech or automation is the biggest appeal of this machine, a super automatic might be a better fit. Check out my guide to the best automatic coffee machines for inspiration!

Water Reservoir

Nobody likes having to constantly refill the water tank on their espresso machine. The trek to the faucet may be short, but it’s definitely a chore. That’s why I appreciate the roomy 95 ounce (2.8 liter) water reservoir on the GE Profile. It’s situated on the back of the machine and is completely removable.

As large as it is, I doubt you’ll need to deal with frequent refills unless you’re making espresso for the entire family. With that said, don’t leave water in there for too long if the machine doesn’t get much use. You could end up growing algae in there, which you probably don’t want.

Boiler

A heating system can make or break your espresso machine. In this case, the GE Profile uses a thermoblock with double PID control. Thermoblocks are inexpensive and efficient, which is why they’re a staple among semi automatics and a handful of manuals.

While I would’ve loved to see GE take a play out of Breville’s playbook and use a thermocoil or ThermoJet, I’m not complaining. Not much, anyway. Thermoblocks still cut the preheating time dramatically compared to traditional stainless steel boilers. Instead of waiting five or ten minutes, the GE Profile promises less than 80 seconds for preheating.

Milk Foam

Not everyone favors manual steam wands, but I do. They certainly give you more control, especially when you’ve got a 180-degree range of motion like you do with the GE Profile.

Plus, you’ll get a metal milk pitcher, which may save you some time if this is your first espresso machine. After all, there’s nothing worse than unpacking a machine, only to find you’ll need to jump back on Amazon to order accessories.

The GE Profile features a commercial-style steam wand that should be powerful enough to create some silky milk foam. Whether you’re making a cappuccino, latte macchiato or espresso macchiato, this type of steam wand is always better than a pannarelo wand in my opinion.

Cup Warming Tray

In some cases, it’s the little things that make or break your espresso experience – like warm espresso cups and insulated coffee mugs. You can always run your cups under a little hot water in a pinch, but the GE Profile saves you that extra step with the cup warming tray on top.

While you wait for the machine to preheat and grind your beans, the grill will maintain the temperature of your cups. I imagine that a  feature like this isn’t a must-have for most home baristas, but if you’ve got it, why not use it?

Cup Height

Espresso cups may be the standard, but sometimes, you want to trade them out for travel mugs or coffee thermoses. To do so, you’ll need plenty of room under the machine’s spouts.

Not only does the GE Profile offer plenty of space, but if you need more you can always remove the drip tray. You’ll need to do that anyway for cleaning, but it’ll give you a few extra inches of headroom into the bargain.

Accessories

Don’t let anyone tell you that the accessories don’t matter. They do! Beginner or not, it never hurts to add a couple of extras to your setup. Here’s what comes in the box with the GE Profile Semi Automatic Espresso Machine:

From this list, I’d argue that the cleaning accessories are the most valuable. A cleaning brush and some solution can make all the difference.

Warranty

Most espresso machines include short-term warranties, and the one year warranty on the GE Profile is not an exception. I usually don’t criticize manufacturers for their warranties (or lack thereof), but I do think this is a bit of a missed opportunity for GE.

Since it’s still a new name in the espresso machine and coffee maker market, a little extra coverage could’ve gone a long way for new customers.

How to Use the GE Profile Semi Automatic Espresso Machine

Even with the built in grinder, using the GE Profile isn’t rocket science. Pulling a shot only involves pressing a few buttons, which is more than I can say for some semi automatics.

Before using the machine for the first time, make sure to clean the bean hopper and filter baskets. Oh, and make sure the hopper is fully dry before adding coffee beans.

I’ll give you a quick overview of how to use the GE Profile below, but remember that you’ll get the best results if your filter baskets are at the correct temperature. Personally, I like to run a couple of shot cycles of water through the portafilter before pulling a shot. That’s especially important if you’ve just switched on the machine.

Drink Preparation

Now that we’ve discussed the best features of this machine in my GE Profile Semi Automatic Espresso Machine review, let’s get into how to use it.

When the shot starts extracting, your work is complete! At least, pulling the shot is complete. As with most espresso machines, you’ll still need to dispose of the puck and rinse out the portafilter.

GE Profile Semi Automatic Espresso Machine Cleaning

Regardless of how high-tech an espresso machine might look, you’ll never completely get out of cleaning and descaling it. The GE Profile will require just as much maintenance and care as any other semi automatic.

Fortunately, GE does a good job of letting you know when that maintenance needs to happen. There’s a descaling notification that will pop up when it’s time to run a cleaning cycle. If you go a week or longer without using the machine, there’s even a mode for emptying the system of all its water.

As for more regular maintenance, I’d recommend cleaning the grinder at least once a week. Trust me – those loose grounds will add up if you don’t!

Like any espresso machine, you can’t forget about the steam wand. Anytime you use the wand, it’s a good idea to rinse it out with a little steam and wipe it off with a damp cloth. You can use the included cleaning pin to dig out any other debris or dry milk too.

I’ve mentioned it once in my GE Profile Semi Automatic Espresso Machine review, but you’ve got the portafilter to care for too. Once you pull a shot, you can dispose of the puck and rinse out the filter basket. If some warm water doesn’t do the trick, the coffee grounds that get stuck to the bottom of the portafilter won’t escape the cleaning pin.

GE Profile Semi Automatic Espresso Machine Specifications

GE Profile Semi Automatic Espresso Machine vs Others

I’d say my GE Profile Semi Automatic Espresso Machine review has shown there’s a lot to like. Still, how does this espresso maker measure up to the competition? Let’s find out!

GE Profile Semi Automatic Espresso Machine vs Breville Barista Express

I wouldn’t say the Breville Barista Express is the gold standard of semi automatic espresso machines, but it’s certainly earned its dues. Not to mention, it might as well be in the GE Profile’s price range at $684.99.

While these two both pack a similar number of grind settings, that’s about where the similarities end. The Barista Express uses analog controls rather than a touchscreen. The GE Profile has app connectivity, the Barista Express doesn’t. Even if the GE Profile seems like the more advanced option between the two, I’d recommend the Barista Express almost every time.

As someone who’s found plenty to criticize the Barista Express for, I also know it’s a long-lasting machine capable of making great espresso. However, if it’s WiFi connectivity and LED lights you’re after, the GE Profile might be a better fit.

See Also: Breville Barista Express Hands-On Review 2024

GE Profile Semi Automatic Espresso Machine vs Breville Barista Pro

All the reasons I’d recommend the Barista Express are the same reasons I’d recommend the Breville Barista Pro. Maybe it’s a little pricier at $849.95, but you’re also getting double the grind settings.

Plus, you’re upgrading to a ThermoJet heating system that’ll knock your preheating time down to three seconds. If you don’t mind analog controls, I’d put my money on the Barista Pro every single time.

See Also: Breville Barista Pro Review 2024

GE Profile Semi Automatic Espresso Machine vs DeLonghi La Specialista Prestigio

I’ve had some good things to say about the DeLonghi La Specialista, even if I haven’t reviewed the DeLonghi La Specialista Prestigio yet. Either way, I’ll admit that it’s got some impressive features, including a one second quick start as well as several adjustable temperature settings. It also packs pre infusion, which does play a role in better extraction.

Plus, for $699.95, the La Specialista Prestigio doesn’t represent much of a price jump. If you ask me, I’d cut back on the takeout for a couple of weeks and bring home this DeLonghi machine instead!

Related: DeLonghi La Specialista Maestro Hands-On Review 2024

GE Profile Semi Automatic Espresso Machine vs Others Comparison Chart

Verdict: GE Profile Semi Automatic Espresso Machine Review

incredible value for money

GE Profile Semi Automatic

Sleek user interface

App connectivity

Compact design

Easy to use

Not many grind settings

Quite expensive

CHECK PRICE

If I’ve learned one thing in my GE Profile Semi Automatic Espresso Machine review, it’s that a couple of slick features don’t always warrant an investment. As much as I appreciate the GE Profile’s WiFi connectivity and modern aesthetic, it’s not a machine I’d recommend for new home baristas.

For the same price, you could easily come home with one of the big names – like the Barista Pro, Barista Express or DeLonghi La Specialista. Say what you want, but all the smartphone apps and flashing LED lights can’t make up for good, old-fashioned espresso.

That isn’t to say you shouldn’t take the risk if high-tech features and a sleek interface are your biggest priority. Just keep in mind that’s exactly what you’re doing – taking a risk on a home espresso machine that may not live up to the hype. Personally, I’d buy a lottery ticket and call it a day, but we’ve all got our vices!

GE Profile Semi Automatic Espresso Machine FAQ