XIXUBX 20 Bar Espresso Machine - Compact Stainless Steel Espresso Maker with Milk Frother and Pitcher, Coffee Machine for Cappuccino Latte, 42 oz Water Tank for Home Office Silver
$109.99
In stock
- 20 bar pressure extracts rich crema for authentic espresso at home.
- Compact stainless steel design saves counter space and looks sleek.
- Includes milk frother and pitcher for creamy cappuccinos and lattes.
- Large 42 oz water tank handles multiple servings without frequent refills.
- Simple controls let you brew café-quality drinks in minutes.
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XIXUBX 20 Bar Espresso Machine Review — Compact Stainless Steel Espresso Review
The XIXUBX 20 Bar Espresso Machine brings café-quality espresso to your countertop without the premium price tag. Designed for home and office use, this compact stainless steel machine packs a 20-bar pressure system, a powerful steam wand, and a 42-ounce water tank. It targets espresso enthusiasts who want rich crema and frothed milk for lattes and cappuccinos without a steep learning curve. With intuitive controls and included accessories like a milk frothing pitcher, it aims to simplify daily espresso preparation. At just over $100, it competes with budget-friendly options while promising performance closer to mid-range machines. Users report that it heats quickly and produces consistent shots, making it a practical choice for those new to espresso or looking to upgrade from pod systems.
Product Overview
The XIXUBX Espresso Machine is a semi-automatic model that uses ground coffee with pressurized portafilter baskets. Its 20-bar pump is regulated to deliver an optimal 9-bar extraction, which helps produce thick crema and balanced flavor. The water tank holds 42 ounces, enough for over ten single shots before refilling. The machine measures 11.4 inches deep, 5 inches wide, and 11.8 inches tall, making it one of the slimmest options available. Its stainless steel exterior resists fingerprints and cleans easily. The included portafilter is made from die-cast aluminum with a plastic handle; buyers often upgrade to all-metal versions for better heat retention. Two filter baskets (single and double) come standard, along with a tamper that doubles as a scoop. The steam wand rotates 360 degrees and delivers dense microfoam for latte art. It detaches for cleaning, which simplifies maintenance. A visible pressure gauge sits on the front, letting you monitor extraction pressure in real time. The machine also includes a stainless steel milk frothing pitcher. Operation is straightforward: turn the dial to brew or steam, and the machine responds quickly thanks to its thermocoil heating system. Cleaning requires hand washing the portafilter and drip tray; the machine has an auto shut-off feature for safety. While it lacks a built-in grinder, the pressurized baskets help beginners achieve decent results even with pre-ground coffee. The machine is not smart-home compatible, but its simplicity appeals to those who prefer manual control.
Key Features
Professional 20-Bar Extraction
- ✓Delivers a stable 20-bar pump, regulated to 9 bars for balanced extraction.
- ✓Produces rich crema and full-bodied espresso with less coffee per shot.
- ✓Enhances flavor extraction without over-extracting bitter compounds.
Fast Heating & Seamless Switch
- ✓Thermocoil heating system reaches brewing temperature in under 30 seconds.
- ✓No cooling-down period needed between steaming and brewing.
- ✓Allows consecutive espresso shots and milk frothing without waiting.
Powerful Steam Wand
- ✓360° rotating wand for easy positioning and frothing.
- ✓Creates dense, silky microfoam ideal for latte art.
- ✓Detachable design simplifies cleaning and milk residue removal.
Compact Stainless Build
- ✓Fits small kitchens, dorms, RVs, and office spaces easily.
- ✓Stainless steel body is durable and easy to wipe clean.
- ✓Built-in pressure gauge helps monitor extraction pressure.
Large 42-Ounce Water Tank
- ✓Transparent tank with markings for easy refill monitoring.
- ✓Reduces need for frequent refills during multiple brew sessions.
- ✓Removable design for convenient filling and cleaning.
Complete Beginner-Friendly Kit
- ✓Includes portafilter, two filter baskets, tamper, and frothing pitcher.
- ✓Step-by-step manual and video tutorials available online.
- ✓Intuitive dial controls require minimal learning curve.
Build & Materials
The XIXUBX machine combines a brushed stainless steel exterior with a black plastic base and drip tray. Its slim footprint (5 inches wide) is ideal for tight countertops. The portafilter is die-cast aluminum with a plastic handle — a common choice at this price point. Many users replace it with a solid stainless steel version for improved heat retention and durability. The water tank is transparent plastic with graduations, and it detaches from the back for easy filling. The pressure gauge is mounted on the front panel, offering real-time feedback on extraction pressure. The steam wand is made of chrome-plated brass with a silicone tip; the tip is removable for cleaning. Overall, the construction feels sturdy for its class, though some plastic components are present. The drip tray is plastic with a stainless steel grate, and its capacity handles several rinses before emptying.
The machine's 1350-watt heating element ensures rapid warm-up. All buttons and dials are clearly labeled for intuitive operation. The steam wand's 360-degree rotation allows flexible use. The included tamper is light but functional; many users upgrade to a heavier metal tamper for better distribution. The machine does not include a grinder, so a separate grinder is recommended for best results. Cleaning is straightforward: the drip tray and water tank dishwashable? The manual advises hand washing for the portafilter. The steam wand should be wiped and purged after each use to prevent milk buildup. Overall, the design prioritizes accessibility and practicality over premium materials.
Shot Quality
Reviewers consistently praise the espresso quality from this machine. The 20-bar pump, regulated to 9 bars, produces shots with thick, velvety crema and balanced flavor. Even with pre-ground coffee in the pressurized baskets, the extraction is smooth and free of channeling. Users note that the taste rivals machines costing several times more. The thermocoil heating maintains stable temperature throughout the shot, preventing sour or bitter notes. The steam wand performs exceptionally well for its price point: it produces microfoam comparable to higher-end machines, with enough power to stretch milk quickly. Some users report that the machine requires a brief priming when new (pouring water into the inlet helps the pump catch), but after that it works reliably.
The machine transitions seamlessly from brewing to steaming — no waiting for the boiler to cool or heat. This allows you to steam milk first, then brew espresso, without any delay. The steam is consistent and dries well for latte art. One downside: the plastic cup filter basket may wear over time, but replacement metal baskets are inexpensive. The machine does not leak during normal use, and the drip tray catches any minor splashes. Overall, the performance exceeds expectations for a sub-$150 espresso machine, making it a favorite among budget-conscious home baristas.
Pros and Cons
What Works
- ✓Produces rich espresso with thick crema at a low price point.
- ✓Steam wand creates smooth microfoam suitable for latte art.
- ✓Compact size saves counter space while holding a large water tank.
- ✓Fast heat-up time and seamless switching between brewing and steaming.
- ✓Intuitive controls make it beginner-friendly.
- ✓Includes all necessary accessories to start making drinks immediately.
- ✓Good value for the money with 1-year warranty.
What Doesn't
- ✗Portafilter is made of aluminum with plastic handle; upgrading recommended.
- ✗No built-in grinder requires separate purchase for best results.
- ✗Pressure gauge can be small and hard to read precisely.
- ✗May need manual priming to get water flowing when first used.
- ✗Drip tray capacity is somewhat small for multiple back-to-back shots.
The Verdict
The XIXUBX 20 Bar Espresso Machine delivers impressive espresso and steam performance at an affordable price. While the build includes some plastic elements, the quality of the brew and the ease of use make it a strong contender for budget-conscious coffee lovers. It's a solid entry-level machine with room to upgrade accessories later. We give it an 8.5 out of 10 for its exceptional value and reliable performance.
Who Is This For?
Budget-Conscious Espresso Enthusiasts
Great value for the price, produces café-quality espresso.
Small Kitchen or Dorm Users
Compact footprint fits limited counter space.
Latte and Cappuccino Lovers
Powerful steam wand creates smooth microfoam.
Beginners Learning Espresso
Intuitive controls and pressurized baskets reduce the learning curve.
Value Assessment
What You Get
- 20-bar pump system for rich crema
- Steam wand for milk-based drinks
- Large 42-oz water tank
- Compact stainless steel design
- Included milk frothing pitcher and accessories
- 1-year warranty
What You Pay
$109.99 at time of review
Frequently Asked Questions
Does this machine use pods or ground coffee?
What is the water tank capacity?
Can I use a non-pressurized basket?
How do I clean the steam wand?
What is the warranty?
Does it have an auto shut-off?
Is the portafilter dishwasher safe?
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Product Specifications
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