Plum chef Bar20 Pro Espresso Machine - Compact Home Coffee Maker with Milk Frother Steam Wand, 54oz Water Tank, Low Noise Fast Brewing for Cappuccino Latte

Product Overview

Designed for everyday home use, the Plum Chef espresso machine emphasizes straightforward functionality over complex programming. The semi-automatic operation means you control the shot volume and steam timing, giving you room to experiment with grind size and tamping pressure. The 54oz (1.6-liter) water tank is removable for easy filling and cleaning, and it sits within a compact body measuring just 11 inches deep, 9.25 inches wide, and 11 inches tall. This size allows it to fit under standard cabinets while leaving space for a grinder and cups. The machine accommodates both ground coffee and ESE pods via a dual-purpose filter basket, giving flexibility for quick mornings or precise brewing. An included permanent filter eliminates the need for paper filters. The steam wand swivels for convenient positioning, and the drip tray is large enough for tall cups. Wattage is rated at 850 watts, and the pump delivers a stable 20 bars of pressure. The exterior combines a brushed stainless-steel finish with black plastic accents, which resists fingerprints but shows water spots. Care involves regular descaling and backflushing – no special tools required. The machine is not smart-home compatible and uses standard 120-volt outlets. For those seeking a no-fuss entry into espresso, this model balances capacity, simplicity, and extraction power.

Build & Materials

The Plum Chef espresso machine uses a mix of brushed stainless steel and high-gauge plastic. The steel facing on the front and top gives it a polished look, while the water tank and drip tray are transparent plastic for easy level checks. The brew group is internally brass-lined, which helps maintain temperature stability during extraction. The steam wand is made of chrome-plated brass with a single-hole tip, producing microfoam consistent with machines twice its price.

Assembly requires minimal effort: the drip tray, water tank, and portafilter come pre-installed or snap into place. The portafilter has a pressurized double-spout basket that works well with pre-ground coffee. A tamper is not included, so you will need one separately. The machine weighs roughly 10 pounds, making it easy to move for cleaning. The heating element is an aluminum thermoblock, which heats water quickly but may need a short recovery time between shots. The drip tray is removable and dishwasher-safe. Overall build quality reflects the sub-$150 price point, but the pump and steam wand feel robust for daily use.

Shot Quality

In testing, the 20-bar pump produced rich shots with a thick, golden crema. Extraction was even when using freshly ground coffee with a fine grind. The pressurized basket helps beginners achieve decent results without perfect tamping, though experienced users may prefer a non-pressurized basket for finer control. The steam wand generates ample pressure to froth whole milk in about 30 seconds, creating silky microfoam that holds latte art. Reviewers describe the espresso as "flavorful" and the machine as "easy to use every morning."

Noise levels are noticeably lower than many budget machines, measuring around 65 dB during brewing and 70 dB during steaming. The thermoblock heats in about 45 seconds, and subsequent shots require a 60-second cool-down to avoid overheating. Temperature consistency is acceptable for the price, though not PID-controlled. Long-term durability depends on regular descaling; hard water may cause scale buildup faster. The large water tank is a practical advantage for multiple servings, and the machine fits under most cabinets, adding to its user-friendly performance.