MIROX Espresso Machine 15 Bar - Coffee Maker with Milk Frother Steam Wand, Built-In Bean Grinder, Combo Cappuccino Machine with 70oz Removable Water Tank
$339.99
In stock
- Built-in conical burr grinder ensures fresh, aromatic coffee with every cup.
- 15 bar professional pressure extracts rich, full-bodied espresso with crema.
- Steam wand creates velvety microfoam for perfect cappuccinos and lattes at home.
- Large 70oz removable water tank reduces refills for multiple drinks without interruption.
- Durable ABS high-strength plastic shell offers long-lasting performance and easy cleaning.
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MIROX AC-517EA Espresso Machine Review — Built-in Grinder and Steam Wand: Review
Tired of spending five dollars on a latte every morning? The MIROX AC-517EA espresso machine aims to bring cafe-quality espresso home without breaking the bank. Priced under $350, this semi-automatic machine combines a built-in conical burr grinder, PID temperature control, and a steam wand for milk frothing. Its lightweight ABS construction promises easy maintenance and rust resistance. While its plastic build and occasional reliability issues give pause, the unit delivers flavorful shots with minimal fuss. For budget-conscious coffee enthusiasts wanting control over grind and extraction, the AC-517EA presents an intriguing entry point.
Product Overview
Using the MIROX AC-517EA feels like stepping into a barista’s shoes without the steep learning curve. The machine weighs only 17 pounds and sits on a 12x12x14-inch footprint, fitting neatly on most kitchen counters. Its water tank holds 70 ounces (about 2 liters), enough for several drinks before a refill. The integrated grinder offers 15 grind settings, letting you dial in from fine to coarse. A magnetic tamper and pressure gauge provide feedback on your puck prep. The machine operates via simple buttons: one for single or double shot, one for steam, and one for hot water. However, note that the machine does not include a milk pitcher despite the 'Included Components: Milk Frother' listing; multiple reviewers mention having to purchase one separately. The ABS plastic body is lighter than stainless steel alternatives and does not rust, but some users worry about durability—especially the plastic portafilter handle, which one reviewer reported cracking after routine use. The steam wand is positioned on the right side and sits low, requiring a tilted pitcher. Reviewers praise the espresso quality: “pulls beautiful shots every time” and “best coffee I’ve made at home.” Yet issues emerge: the grinder on some units failed after 5–12 months, emitting smoke or simply stopping. One user resorted to using a separate grinder. Additionally, the machine shipped with no instruction manual, relying on user intuition. Despite these drawbacks, for its price point, it offers a self-contained espresso solution that rivals much costlier machines.
Key Features
Integrated Conical Burr Grinder
- ✓15 grind settings from fine to coarse for precise dosing.
- ✓Grinds on demand directly into the portafilter.
- ✓Allows fresh espresso from whole beans.
- ✓Some users report grinder failure after several months of use.
PID Temperature Control
- ✓Digital PID maintains water at optimal brewing temperature.
- ✓Ensures consistent extraction shot after shot.
- ✓Avoids overheating or underheating for balanced flavor.
15-Bar High-Pressure Pump
- ✓Low-pressure pre-infusion gradually builds up pressure.
- ✓Extracts full flavor and produces rich crema.
- ✓15 bars of pressure for cafe-quality espresso.
Manual Steam Wand
- ✓Powerful steam for microfoam milk texture.
- ✓Enables latte art with practice.
- ✓Works with dairy and non-dairy milk.
Large Removable Water Tank
- ✓70 oz (2 liter) capacity for multiple drinks.
- ✓Removable for easy filling and cleaning.
- ✓Transparent design to monitor water level.
Shot Quality
The MIROX AC-517EA consistently produces flavorful espresso with a decent crema, thanks to its PID temperature control and 15-bar pump. Reviewers describe the shots as “beautiful” and “the best coffee I’ve made at home.” However, achieving optimal extraction requires careful dialing of grind size and dose. Some users encounter wet pucks and pressure build-up, which the machine signals with flashing red lights. This can be resolved by clearing the filter basket with the included pin. Shot temperature is a common concern: one reviewer noted that straight espresso comes out “slightly warm” rather than hot, making it more suitable for milk-based drinks or Americanos.
The steam wand performs adequately for home use, though it takes about 30 seconds to start producing steam and has an auto-stop feature that may cut off before the milk is sufficiently hot. Users can simply press the steam button again to continue. Long-term performance is mixed; while the machine works well for many during the first year, several reviewers report grinder failures between 5 and 12 months, with one unit completely dying after a year. Overall, the shot quality is impressive for the price, but reliability remains a gamble.
Pros and Cons
What Works
- ✓Affordable price for an integrated grinder machine.
- ✓PID temperature control ensures consistent extraction.
- ✓Built-in conical burr grinder with 15 settings.
- ✓Produces rich, cafe-quality espresso.
- ✓Compact footprint fits small kitchens.
- ✓Steam wand creates microfoam for lattes.
What Doesn't
- ✗Grinder reliability issues reported after several months.
- ✗No instruction manual included; no brand labeling.
- ✗Shot temperature can be only warm, not hot.
- ✗Plastic portafilter handle may crack over time.
- ✗Steam wand auto-stop may cut off too early.
The Verdict
The MIROX AC-517EA delivers impressive espresso for its price, especially for those willing to dial in their process. The integrated grinder and PID control are standout features at this price point. However, reliability concerns—particularly with the grinder—and the lack of documentation are significant drawbacks. If you're a beginner on a tight budget and don't mind potential troubleshooting, it's a worthwhile gamble. For those seeking long-term durability, consider investing in a separate grinder or a higher-end machine.
Who Is This For?
Budget-conscious home espresso enthusiasts
Offers integrated grinder and PID at a lower price than most competitors.
Beginners wanting to learn manual espresso
Simple button controls and manual steam wand allow for hands-on experience.
Those with limited counter space
Compact 12-inch footprint fits in small kitchens.
Is It Worth It?
What You Get
- Integrated conical burr grinder with 15 settings
- PID temperature control for consistent extractions
- 15-bar pump with pre-infusion
- Manual steam wand for milk frothing
- Lightweight and compact design
- Large 70 oz water tank
What You Pay
$339.99
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the MIROX AC-517EA come with a milk pitcher?
Is the espresso shot hot enough for straight espresso?
How long does the machine typically last?
How do I fix a pressure build-up issue?
Is the grinder adjustable?
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Product Specifications
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