ANYCOLD Espresso Machine with Milk Frother, 20 Bar Stainless Steel Coffee Machine, Espresso Maker with 34oz Removable Water Tank for Home, Office

Product Overview

Many home baristas start with a machine like the ANYCOLD ST-699B, which balances affordability with proper extraction mechanics. Unlike pod machines, this semi-automatic ground espresso machine gives you control over grind dose and tamping pressure. The 34 oz water tank is rear-mounted and removable for easy refills. The machine measures 12.2 x 5.32 x 11.5 inches, a footprint small enough for tight counters or office breakrooms. The included portafilter accepts single or double shot baskets. A tamper and spoon are provided, but you'll need your own espresso cups and milk pitcher. The steam wand is a 360-degree rotating pipe for positioning. Cleaning is manual (not dishwasher safe); the drip tray collects spills. The suction cup base keeps the machine planted during tamping. Overall, it's a straightforward tool for learning espresso. Reviewers consistently note that after a few tries, the machine produces cafe-quality results. The compact size also makes it suitable for RVs or travel. The machine's build quality is good for the price, with a stainless steel front and ABS body. The buttons are intuitive, and the auto shut-off adds safety.

Build & Materials

The ANYCOLD ST-699B blends stainless steel and ABS plastic for a sleek, modern look that fits most kitchens. Its compact footprint (12.2 x 5.32 x 11.5 inches) makes it one of the smaller espresso machines available, ideal for apartments or offices. The water tank is transparent and removable, with a capacity of 34 oz — enough for several drinks. The portafilter is made of chrome-plated brass, weighing enough to feel sturdy. The steam wand is a stainless steel tube with a rubber tip; it rotates 360 degrees for convenient positioning. The machine sits on four suction cups that grip the counter, preventing sliding during tamping. Overall construction feels solid for the price point, though some plastic components (such as the drip tray) are lightweight.

Maintenance is straightforward: the drip tray and water tank should be rinsed regularly. The steam wand must be purged and wiped after each use to prevent milk buildup. The portafilter and baskets can be washed by hand. The machine is not dishwasher safe, and descaling every few months is recommended depending on water hardness. The included tamper is basic but functional, and the spoon end helps scoop coffee grounds. The machine does not include a milk pitcher or espresso cups, so those are separate purchases.

Shot Quality

The 20-bar pump, according to the manufacturer, ensures proper 9-bar extraction pressure. Multiple reviewers confirm the machine produces espresso with a thick crema and robust flavor, comparable to coffee shop drinks. One reviewer noted their shots were smoother than from their previous name-brand machine, attributing it to the pressure consistency. The extraction speed is quick, and the machine heats up in about a minute. However, beginners may need a few tries to dial in the grind size and tamping pressure. The steam wand takes practice to achieve perfect microfoam; reviewers mention it works well once you position it correctly. The machine can also dispense hot water for tea or Americano via the steam wand after running water through it.

Thermal stability is adequate for a home machine — the single boiler means you must wait between brewing and steaming, but the recovery time is short. One reviewer reported using it for two weeks with consistent results. The suction cups keep the machine stable during tamping. Some users noted that the pressure gauge on the front reads around 12 bars during extraction, which is within the normal range for this type of machine. Overall, performance exceeds expectations for the price, delivering genuine espresso rather than strong coffee. The machine handles both single and double shots well, provided you respect the MAX fill line on the portafilter to avoid overflow.