AMZCHEF Compact Espresso Machine - 20Bar Home Barista Coffee Maker with 1350W Fast Heating, 3-Level Temperature Control, 360° Adjustable Steam Wand, HD Touch Screen, Small Footprint for Kitchen

Product Overview

The CM1861 operates semi-automatically: you grind and dose your own coffee (using a reusable filter), then select single or double shot via the touchscreen. The 20-bar pump extracts espresso in about 30 seconds, and the 3-level temperature control lets you dial in up to 201°F for light or dark roasts. The 44-ounce removable water tank slides out for refills, and the machine's stainless-steel body pairs with a compact 13.3 x 6.7 x 11.8-inch footprint. A 360° swivel steam wand froths milk for lattes or cappuccinos, and the touchscreen includes a memory mode to save your preferred shot volume. Some users noted that the brew temperature may not satisfy those accustomed to very hot espresso, though most found it adequate. The included accessories cover the basics: a single/double shot filter basket, tamper, and measuring scoop. No grinder is included, so buyers need pre-ground coffee or a separate grinder. Cleaning is straightforward thanks to the removable drip tray and reusable filter, but the machine lacks a pressure gauge, limiting fine-tuning feedback.

Build & Materials

The AMZCHEF CM1861 is built with a brushed stainless-steel outer shell that resists fingerprints and wipes clean easily. The body feels solid despite its compact size, with a weighted base and suction cups underneath to prevent sliding during operation. The touchscreen is a bright LCD that's responsive even with wet fingers, and the steam wand is a chrome-plated brass construction that rotates smoothly on a ball joint.

Internally, the thermoblock heating element is paired with a 20-bar vibratory pump. The water tank is BPA-free plastic with a handle for easy removal. The drip tray is plastic with a stainless top grate and a float indicator to show when it needs emptying. The portafilter is a pressurized design with a plastic handle, which helps beginners achieve decent crema with pre-ground coffee. Overall, the build quality is typical for the price point—adequate but not premium, with plastic components where budget allows.

Shot Quality

The CM1861 produces espresso with good crema when using fresh, finely ground coffee. The 30-second heat-up is genuinely fast, and the 3 temperature settings allow some adjustment for bean type. Most reviewers reported rich, flavorful shots with a decent crema layer. However, a minority found the brew temperature too low, resulting in sour or weak espresso, even on the highest setting. This inconsistency might be due to unit variation or the pressurized basket, which can mask grind issues but also limit extraction potential.

The steam wand performs well for texturing milk, producing acceptable microfoam after a short learning curve. It has enough power to froth milk in about 30 seconds. The auto-off feature works reliably. The machine's brew pressure is not adjustable, and there is no pre-infusion, so light roasts may be less forgiving. Noise level is typical for a pump machine—noticeable but not excessively loud. Overall, the performance is competitive for its price, especially for those who prioritize speed and simplicity over absolute control.