KitchenAid KF4 Review: A Classy Misrepresentation?

It no longer surprises me when fully automatic espresso machines I test promise more than they can deliver. As long as the results in the cup are good, I can live with a few marketing exaggerations.

During my KitchenAid KF4 review, however, I couldn’t help but wonder where marketing hype ends and brazen lies begin. Because this compact, high-end fully automatic machine can do almost none of the things that are supposed to make it special. So, is it still worth buying? I bought the KitchenAid KF4 Fully Automatic Espresso Machine to test out for you and I’ll do my best to answer that question.

Note: Until the KF4 becomes available on Amazon, I’m linking to the KitchenAid KF3, which has a slightly smaller screen and drink menu.

KitchenAid KF4 Fully Automatic Espresso Machine

Impressive performer, despite false advertising promises

High-quality construction

Excellent espresso and coffee

Great milk foam

Misleading grinder description

Maximum amount of milk foam too limited

Disappointing iced coffee function

CHECK PRICE

All specifications

KitchenAid KF4 Fully Automatic Espresso Machine
Manufacturer	KitchenAid
Model number	KES8454BM
Product category	Super automatic espresso machine
Removable brew group
Housing material	Plastic with stainless steel parts
Color options	Black Matte, Porcelain White
Milk frother	Cappuccinatore
User interface	Touchscreen
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	5.5 in / 14.0 cm
Minimum cup height	3.5 in / 8.9 cm
Grinder	Stainless steel conical burr grinder
Grind adjustment levels	5
Bean hopper capacity	8.8 oz / 250.0 g
Pre-ground coffee bypass
Grounds discard container capacity	10
Specialty drinks	21
Pre-infusion
Adjustable coffee temperature
Adjustable milk foam temperature
Adjustable milk temperature
2-cup function	No
Pot function
Hot water function
Hot milk function
Milk foam only option
Water filter
Power consumption	1450 W
Weight	28.0 lb / 12.7 kg
Dimensions	14.2 x 7.7 x 18.7 in 36.1 x 19.6 x 47.5 cm
Warranty	2 years
Notes	Included Accessories: User manual, water filter, cleaning tablets, coffee scoop
Current price on Amazon	$799.99
All specifications

KitchenAid KF4 Review Overview

Coffeeness Medium Roast Espresso

Well-balanced with chocolate & hazelnut notes

Freshly roasted in Brooklyn

Very low acidity

To the Coffeeness Shop

I’ve already tested KitchenAid coffee makers, espresso machines and grinders in the Coffeeness kitchen. And my conclusions have almost always been the same: they look great, but they cost too much.

With that said, I was thrilled with the KitchenAid KF7. This high-end, premium fully automatic coffee machine delivers great coffee and cappuccino, offers useful settings and features a removable bean hopper.

With the KitchenAid KF4, KF3 and KF2, the American brand is now expanding its existing line of fully automatic coffee machines to include three machines with iced coffee capabilities. All are priced under $1,300, yet are said to be more modern than the previous KF6, KF7 and KF8 models.

Like its newer counterparts, the KF4 – available in Black or White – is strikingly compact and, at first glance, resembles an entry-level machine like the Melitta Caffeo Solo.

However, the moment you set it up and try it out, it becomes clear that the KF4 is a high-quality fully automatic coffee machine that’s in a league of its own – not just in terms of design, but also in terms of technology.

The price and feature tiers of the new KitchenAid “Iced Coffee” line are relatively self-explanatory. The smaller the number following the letter code, the fewer automatic features and accessories the machine includes.

At least on paper, the is particularly interesting because, as far as I know, it’s the first fully automatic coffee machine with a steam wand that also offers iced coffee – and at a relatively affordable price. But the fact remains: it doesn’t really make iced coffee in the traditional sense.

KitchenAid KF4 Features

Let’s continue this KitchenAid KF4 review by taking a closer look at the machine’s most notable features.

Size and Design

There can be little doubt that one of the KitchenAid KF4’s main selling points is its space-saving design. In fact, this compact model is positively “micro” in comparison with its older sibling, the KF7. Heck, the KF4 rises to just 14.2 inches (36 centimeters) and has a width of 7.7 inches (20 centimeters). With that in mind, I doubt you’ll have any issues finding space for the KF4 in your kitchen.

As you’d expect from this manufacturer, the KitchenAid KF4 not only looks great but feels substantial, too. The machine is crafted from premium materials, and the manufacturer even throws in a two-year warranty, three-year grinder warranty and a guarantee that replacement parts will be available for 10 years.

User Interface

The KitchenAid KF4 is equipped with a 3.5-inch (9-centimeter) color touchscreen display surrounded by sensor buttons. As with the KF7 I tested, the user interface is simple, streamlined and easy to use.

In theory, this compact KitchenAid has everything you need to make setup a breeze: the touchscreen is clear and responsive, and the settings for coffee, milk and strength make sense. In fact, you don’t really need the user manual at all.

But I quickly realized that, unlike the KF7, the KF4 imposes unnecessary restrictions that can only be circumvented through a little creative manipulation. And in my opinion, that’s a bit cheeky for a fully automatic coffee machine costing over $1,000. Anyway, I’ll give you more information about how this works a little later in my KitchenAid KF4 review.

Grinder

Let’s address the first major misrepresentation regarding the KitchenAid KF4. On its website, the manufacturer promises a grinder that “adapts automatically to every bean type and roast – no manual adjustments needed.” KitchenAid calls this the IntelliGrind System, and it’s meant to automatically fine-tune the dose for every coffee.

Upon reading those words, everyone expects an electronic grinder. However, the KF4 has nothing more than a classic stainless steel conical burr grinder with five settings that you can adjust using a dial.

We’re familiar with similar mumbo jumbo from DeLonghi’s Bean Adapt Technology – nobody really knows what that technology does either. However, unlike KitchenAid, the Italians don’t claim anywhere that Bean Adapt eliminates the need for manual adjustments.

Still, once I’d gotten over the disappointment, I set the KF4 grinder to level 2 out of 5 for my beans and at least appreciated the pleasant background noise. 

The 67.3 decibels actually sound even quieter in practice. But that’s to be expected from a fully automatic coffee machine at this price point.

Milk Foam

As with most manufacturers, KitchenAid can’t help but come up with an important-sounding name for its milk frother. The AutoMilk System supposedly adjusts milk texture and temperature, depending on the drink being prepared. Consisting of a single tube that connects from the milk container to the dispensing spout, the AutoMilk System is hygienic and extremely easy to use.

In at least one respect, the KitchenAid machine proves the rule: milk foam from a cappuccinatore always turns out perfectly. Even though I’d prefer a bit more foam, I found nothing to complain about in terms of either consistency or temperature.

Delivered at 150 degrees Fahrenheit (66 degrees Celsius) I was delighted by the cappuccino’s delicate, perfectly frothed milk cap. The flavor leans toward almond or marzipan, which also takes center stage in the trickier double latte, which was only slightly cooler.

Specialty Drinks & Iced Coffee

The KitchenAid KF4’s specialty drink menu is loaded with all the usual suspects, including flat white, cappuccino and espresso macchiato. And as I mentioned earlier, the manufacturer has decided to include an iced coffee function too.

Anyone who buys a fully automatic coffee machine with an iced coffee function shouldn’t expect it to produce ice-cold coffee. After all, none of the models have an active cooling unit. 

However, you should expect the machine to adequately lower the brewing temperature. That way, the coffee won’t immediately melt your ice cubes – which are usually necessary – and and you’ll end up with a full-bodied drink.

The KF4 makes this promise. However, the manufacturer seems to be hoping that no one will look too closely. Too bad: I left out the ice cubes and dropped a thermometer into the so-called iced coffee, which is supposed to be brewed at a lower temperature.

I don’t know how you see it, but for me a drink delivered at almost 158 degrees Fahrenheit (70 degrees Celsius) can’t be labeled “iced coffee.”

Even when I used ice cubes, they melted instantly. The result was a lukewarm, watery iced coffee that even milk or other additions couldn’t save.

I really wonder what KitchenAid was thinking. Other fully automatic coffee machines handle the temperature reduction way better. For example, the DeLonghi Eletta Explore delivers cold brew at around 100 degrees Fahrenheit (38 degrees Celsius), and Jura coffee machines achieve similar results.

The KitchenAid KF4 in Use

As I mentioned earlier in this KitchenAid KF4 review, getting started with the machine is a piece of cake. Simply rinse removable parts before adding filtered water to the 61-ounce (1.8-liter) reservoir and your best espresso beans to the 9-ounce (250-gram hopper).

At first, you’ll experience no issues. Go ahead and set the espresso volume to 1.4 ounces (40 milliliters) and the coffee to 4 ounces (120 milliliters). As for adjusting the “body,” it’s best to stick to the middle setting. With the three-level temperature setting, everything is as I usually recommend. The coffee should come out of the machine at level one; for all other drinks, select the highest setting.

However, things get tricky as soon as milk comes into play. That’s because the machine dispenses a maximum of 4.7 ounces (140 milliliters) of milk foam – even though the milk container has a capacity of nearly one liter.

While this is just barely tolerable for a cappuccino, it’s a source of frustration for a latte. After all, a latte should really clock in at a minimum of 8 ounces (237 milliliters). That’s why you’ll have to resort to a “trick” here:

Set the latte espresso to 1 ounce (30 milliliters) and select a double shot. This means you’ll be running significantly more beans through the machine, but unfortunately, there’s no other way.

How Does Espresso From the KitchenAid KF4 Taste?

At least when it comes to coffee and espresso flavor, the KF4 truly shines. Unlike many other fully automatic coffee machines, it successfully enhances the nuttiness of my Coffeeness Espresso Blend, making it instantly memorable.

The flavor is reminiscent of fresh walnuts straight from the tree; the bitter notes are slightly more pronounced and provide a nice counterbalance to the chocolatey sweetness. This makes the espresso not only a delight on its own but also an ideal base for milk drinks. And at 143 degrees Fahrenheit (62 degrees Celsius), it arrives in your espresso glass at the perfect temperature.

The coffee has a more classic flavor profile and really emphasizes the chocolate notes. In return, you’ll experience an interesting, pleasantly long finish that’s usually missing from coffee made with other machines. Here, too, we don’t have to complain about the temperature: 163 degrees Fahrenheit (73 degrees Celsius) is just right.

Best Coffee for the KitchenAid KF4

Coffeeness Medium Roast Espresso

Well-balanced with chocolate & hazelnut notes

Freshly roasted in Brooklyn

Very low acidity

To the Coffeeness Shop

After 10 years reviewing super automatics and espresso machines, and over 15 years reviewing coffee beans, we’re proud to offer our own Coffeeness Espresso Blend. Comprising ethically farmed and sourced coffee beans, our Espresso Blend is expertly roasted in small batches to guarantee freshness.

This premium blend of direct trade Brazilian coffee beans produces rich, bold and complex espresso that’s ideal straight or paired with milk. Featuring notes of chocolate and hazelnut, our Espresso Blend is particularly low in acidity, making it easy on the stomach.

Here’s how we recommend setting up your KitchenAid KF4 for the perfect cup of coffee:

KitchenAid KF4 Cleaning

There’s a clear advantage to having a touchscreen user interface: the machine always tells you exactly what you should empty, fill or clean. In this respect, the compact KitchenAid KF4 behaves like all high-quality models I’ve tested.

You can easily remove all the containers, the brew group, and all necessary components, rinse them, and put them back in place. Plus, from time to time, the machine will prompt you on the display to rinse the system.

To be perfectly honest, there’s nothing remarkable about this fully automatic machine in terms of cleaning and descaling. And that’s a good thing! 

KitchenAid KF4 vs KF7

KitchenAid coffee machines talk a lot but say little. That’s why it’s not so easy to compare two machines. The internet has noticed this too, leading to Reddit posts where users complain, for example, about the lack of recipes in the KF4 menu.

Personally, I don’t care that the KF4 can’t make a cortado or ristretto on command. I also don’t miss having a special setting for plant-based milk. However, I do think it’s a shame that the KF4 doesn’t have the removable bean hopper found on the KitchenAid KF7. Then again, the KF7 has to earn its whopping $1,449.95 price tag somehow.

While some might argue that the KF4 makes iced coffee and has a special “automatic” grinder, we’ve seen that both of these features exist only in the brand’s marketing speak.

KitchenAid Fully Automatic Espresso Machine Review: An Espresso Lover’s Dream

See Also: KitchenAid Fully Automatic Espresso Machine Review

KitchenAid KF4 vs KF7 Comparison Chart

Verdict: KitchenAid KF4 Review

KitchenAid KF4 Fully Automatic Espresso Machine

Impressive performer, despite false advertising promises

High-quality construction

Excellent espresso and coffee

Great milk foam

Misleading grinder description

Maximum amount of milk foam too limited

Disappointing iced coffee function

CHECK PRICE

All specifications

KitchenAid KF4 Fully Automatic Espresso Machine
Manufacturer	KitchenAid
Model number	KES8454BM
Product category	Super automatic espresso machine
Removable brew group
Housing material	Plastic with stainless steel parts
Color options	Black Matte, Porcelain White
Milk frother	Cappuccinatore
User interface	Touchscreen
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	5.5 in / 14.0 cm
Minimum cup height	3.5 in / 8.9 cm
Grinder	Stainless steel conical burr grinder
Grind adjustment levels	5
Bean hopper capacity	8.8 oz / 250.0 g
Pre-ground coffee bypass
Grounds discard container capacity	10
Specialty drinks	21
Pre-infusion
Adjustable coffee temperature
Adjustable milk foam temperature
Adjustable milk temperature
2-cup function	No
Pot function
Hot water function
Hot milk function
Milk foam only option
Water filter
Power consumption	1450 W
Weight	28.0 lb / 12.7 kg
Dimensions	14.2 x 7.7 x 18.7 in 36.1 x 19.6 x 47.5 cm
Warranty	2 years
Notes	Included Accessories: User manual, water filter, cleaning tablets, coffee scoop
Current price on Amazon	$799.99
All specifications

I feel like I’ve been fairly lenient during this KitchenAid KF4 review. That’s because when I tested the thing, I evaluated it primarily as a classic fully automatic machine for hot beverages. In that regard, the machine definitely delivers. I was particularly impressed by the espresso flavor and the overall high quality.

However, when we factor in the iced coffee and electric grinder features – two of the most talked-about features of this machine – its rating plummets.

Even though no one buys a fully automatic coffee machine just for the cold drinks, a so-called “iced coffee” should at least start to resemble an actual iced coffee. 

It also drives me crazy when manufacturers lure us in with exciting promises that turn out to be not only exaggerated but completely untrue.

The worst part is that KitchenAid has long since proven with the KF7 that it can produce a great coffee machine. But after all my experiences in this test, I’ll be very skeptical of this manufacturer in the future.