Amaste Espresso Machine with Grinder - 15 Bar Italian Pump, Steam Wand for Latte & Cappuccino, 68oz Water Tank, Pre-Infuse Brewing, Barista Kit, Green

Product Overview

The Amaste AC-517E combines a conical burr grinder with a 15-bar pump, offering 15 grind settings to dial in the perfect coarseness. Its semi-automatic operation means the user starts and stops extraction manually, giving control over shot timing. The machine features low-pressure pre-infusion, which gradually ramps up pressure before full extraction, intended to evenly saturate the coffee puck for richer flavor. A visual pressure gauge displays brew pressure, helping users adjust grind and dose. The steam wand is covered with a silicone sleeve for safety and produces microfoam suitable for latte art. The 68 oz (2 L) removable water tank reduces refilling frequency. The machine is housed in a plastic body with a retro matcha green finish and measures 11.02 x 11.61 x 16.14 inches. It takes standard 51 mm portafilters and comes with single and double baskets. The included barista kit includes a stainless steel tamper, dosing ring, cleaning brush, needle, and a 20 oz milk pitcher. Care requires regular cleaning of the grinder and steam wand; the machine is not dishwasher safe. The grinder's portafilter cradle allows hands-free grinding directly into the basket. Some users report difficulty ejecting used pucks; a knock box is recommended. The machine operates on 120V and draws 1450W. While the exterior is plastic, reviewers note it feels solid enough for daily use over several months. The Amaste is best suited for home use, with a compact design that fits most kitchens. It is not designed for commercial settings. The machine includes a 1-year warranty, though some users have encountered challenges contacting support. Overall, the Amaste offers a comprehensive package for those entering home espresso. Its retro aesthetic appeals to style-conscious buyers, but the plastic build may deter some seeking all-metal longevity. The large water tank and included accessories add convenience, making it a strong contender in the sub-$400 espresso machine market.

Build & Materials

The Amaste AC-517E features a retro-inspired exterior finished in matcha green, with a compact footprint that fits under standard cabinets. The housing is primarily plastic, which keeps weight manageable at around 15 pounds but may raise questions about long-term durability. The front panel houses the pressure gauge and control buttons for single/double shot and steam. The removable water tank sits at the top and lifts off for filling. The drip tray is plastic and slides out for cleaning. The portafilter is 51 mm stainless steel with a plastic handle; it locks in with a slight twist. The grinder is integrated into the top-left area with a hopper that holds enough beans for several shots. The steam wand is stainless steel with a silicone cover and rotates 360 degrees for comfortable positioning. The machine’s feet have rubber grips for stability. Overall, the build prioritizes affordability and style over premium materials.

Several reviewers note the plastic body feels sturdy enough for regular home use, but some express concern about its longevity compared to all-metal machines. The grinder burrs are conical steel, which is good for consistent grinding. The machine lacks a hot water dispenser, which is common at this price point. Cleaning the grinder requires brushing out the chute occasionally to prevent clogging. The design is intuitive with clear labeling, though the instruction manual could be more detailed, especially for descaling. The included barista kit adds value, but the plastic tamper (though functional) is lighter than professional models. The portafilter cradle is a thoughtful touch for hands-free grinding, reducing mess during preparation.