SHARDOR Espresso Machine 20 Bar with Pressure Gauge, Stainless Steel - 1350W Heating, NTC Precision Temp, LED Touchscreen, One-Touch Descaling, 45 oz Water Tank, Milk Frother

Product Overview

The SHARDOR CM1660 is a semi-automatic espresso machine designed for home use. It measures 8.14 inches deep, 5.12 inches wide, and 15.27 inches tall, weighing 8.5 pounds. The stainless steel body gives it a sleek, durable appearance that blends into modern kitchens. The 45-ounce water tank is removable for easy filling and cleaning, and the drip tray slides out for quick rinsing. The machine includes a portafilter with single and double shot baskets, a tamper with a spoon, and a filter. It supports brewing single or double espresso shots, and the steam wand froths milk for lattes, cappuccinos, and macchiatos. The touchscreen interface allows you to select drink size, adjust temperature across three settings, access manual mode, and trigger a descaling cycle. An auto shut-off activates after 15 minutes of inactivity. The pressure gauge on the front provides real-time feedback during extraction, helping you dial in the grind. While the machine is compact, its 1350W heating element ensures quick warm-up. The output pressure is regulated to 9 bars for optimal extraction, though the pump can generate up to 20 bars. This machine is best suited for small to medium households, and its intuitive controls make it accessible to beginners while offering enough customization for experienced users.

Build & Materials

The SHARDOR CM1660 uses a brushed stainless steel body that resists fingerprints and looks professional. The machine's compact footprint (just over 5 inches wide) saves counter space while still accommodating a 45-ounce water tank. The water tank is transparent and removable, making it easy to monitor water levels and clean. The drip tray is also removable, with a grid that catches spills. The portafilter is chrome-plated brass, which provides thermal stability, and comes with two filter baskets for single and double shots. The included tamper doubles as a spoon, a handy addition for beginners. The steam wand is made of stainless steel and swivels, allowing you to position your pitcher easily. Overall, the build quality feels solid for the price range, though some plastic components are present on the drip tray and tank lid.

Maintenance is straightforward: the drip tray and tank can be washed with soapy water, and the machine prompts you to run a descaling cycle via the touchscreen. The exterior wipes clean easily. The pressure gauge adds a tactile element to the design, giving visual feedback during extraction. The machine's weight (8.5 pounds) gives it stability on the counter without being too heavy to move.

Shot Quality

The SHARDOR CM1660 uses a 20-bar pump (with a 9-bar OPV) to extract espresso. According to the manufacturer, this pressure system ensures rich crema and full flavor. The NTC temperature control maintains stable extraction temperatures, which is critical for consistency. The three temperature settings allow you to adjust for light or dark roasts. The pressure gauge shows the brew pressure in real time, helping you fine-tune your grind and tamp. Early users report that the machine produces shots with good crema and body, though dialing in the grind size may take a few tries. The steam wand produces decent microfoam, but it may not be as powerful as commercial machines; still, it can create latte art with practice.

The machine heats up in under a minute, thanks to the 1350W thermoblock. Shot timing is consistent once you find the right grind. The auto shut-off is a convenient safety feature. The water tank capacity supports multiple drinks, though frequent heavy use may require refilling. The machine runs relatively quietly for a pump espresso machine. Overall, performance is solid for the price, with reliable temperature stability and adequate steam power for home use.