Empstorm 20 Bar Espresso Machine: Cappuccino Latte Maker with Milk Frother Steam Wand, Stainless Steel for Home & Barista, Auto Shut-off
$102.97
In stock
- Brew café-quality espresso with 20 bar high-pressure extraction at home.
- Create silky microfoam for lattes and cappuccinos using the steam wand.
- Durable stainless steel body adds elegance and lasts for years.
- Automatic shut-off function ensures safety and saves energy after use.
- Ideal for home baristas and professionals seeking consistent, rich espresso.
Our Score
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Empstorm 20 Bar Espresso Machine Review — Affordable semi-automatic with Review
The Empstorm 20 Bar Espresso Machine is a semi-automatic espresso maker designed for home use, offering a balance of affordability and functionality. It targets beginners and budget-conscious coffee enthusiasts who want to explore espresso, lattes, and cappuccinos without a high investment. The machine stands out with its dual filter system—supporting both ground coffee and capsules—and a built-in steam wand for milk frothing. With a compact stainless steel build and a 50.7-ounce water tank, it aims to deliver convenience and consistent results at a sub-$110 price point. Reviewers praise its value for money, though some note limitations in advanced features.
Product Overview
The Empstorm espresso machine combines stainless steel construction with a compact footprint of 10.7 by 8.2 by 11.5 inches, making it suitable for small countertops. Its 50.7-ounce water tank allows multiple brews without constant refills, and the removable drip tray simplifies cleanup. The machine comes with two types of filter baskets: a single-shot (1-cup) and a double-shot (2-cup) for ground coffee, plus a separate capsule filter for Pods. However, reviewers note that the portafilter is narrower than standard—approximately 49 mm versus the typical 58 mm—which limits the coffee dose to around 10-11 grams in the double basket, effectively yielding a single shot. The included accessories are a powder filter, measuring spoon, and user manual; a milk frothing pitcher is not included and must be purchased separately. The machine operates at 850 watts and 120 volts, with a simple button interface and no smart home compatibility. Cleaning is straightforward thanks to the removable parts, and the auto shut-off feature powers down after 25 minutes of inactivity for safety.
Key Features
20-bar Pressure System
- ✓Professional-grade pump maintains steady pressure for extraction
- ✓Produces rich crema and full flavor from coffee grounds
- ✓Ensures even extraction for consistent espresso shots
Dual Filter Design
- ✓Compatible with both ground coffee and coffee capsules
- ✓Includes single and double shot filter baskets for grounds
- ✓Separate capsule filter offers flexibility for quick brewing
Milk Frothing Steam Wand
- ✓Built-in wand with PID temperature control for stable steam
- ✓Creates creamy milk foam for lattes and cappuccinos
- ✓Some users report difficulty achieving microfoam for latte art
Auto Shut-Off Safety
- ✓Automatically powers off after 25 minutes of inactivity
- ✓Prevents accidental burnout if left on
- ✓Adds peace of mind for busy households
Compact and Durable Build
- ✓Stainless steel exterior with a sleek, modern design
- ✓Small footprint (10.7" x 8.2" x 11.5") saves counter space
- ✓Removable water tank and drip tray simplify cleaning
Shot Quality
The Empstorm's 20-bar pump can produce espresso with decent crema when dialed in, but consistency varies. Some reviewers report excellent shots with rich flavor, while others experience unpredictable brew volumes and occasional channeling. The portafilter's 49 mm size limits coffee doses, making it hard to pull a true double shot. The steam wand uses an eductor-style design; it aerates milk but struggles to create the swirling motion needed for velvety microfoam, which frustrated users aiming for latte art. The wand's short length also requires a fuller cup or shallow pitcher. Temperature stability is adequate thanks to PID control, but the lack of a pressure gauge makes it harder to fine-tune extractions.
Over months of use, a few long-term owners noted declining performance—shots became weak or water backed up in the portafilter. Cleaning and descaling may help, but manufacturer troubleshooting pages are reportedly broken. Overall, the machine performs well for entry-level espresso, but its limitations become apparent as skills advance.
Pros and Cons
What Works
- ✓Very affordable price for an espresso machine with steam wand
- ✓Dual filter compatibility works with both grounds and capsules
- ✓Compact size fits easily on small countertops
- ✓Auto shut-off adds safety and energy savings
- ✓Removable water tank and drip tray simplify cleaning
- ✓Stainless steel build feels durable for the price
- ✓PID temperature control helps maintain consistent heat
What Doesn't
- ✗Portafilter is smaller (49 mm) than standard, limiting dose
- ✗No pressure gauge for monitoring extraction
- ✗Steam wand produces mediocre foam texture for latte art
- ✗Inconsistent shot volume reported by some users
- ✗Milk frothing pitcher not included
- ✗Limited advanced features for experienced baristas
The Verdict
The Empstorm 20 Bar Espresso Machine offers tremendous value for its price, delivering a functional espresso maker with dual filter flexibility and a steam wand. It is best suited for beginners or casual users who want an affordable introduction to home espresso. Experienced baristas may find the small portafilter and inconsistent steam wand limiting. Overall, it's a solid entry-level choice with a few trade-offs.
Who Is This For?
Budget-conscious beginners
Low price and simple operation make it easy to start making espresso without a big investment.
Casual coffee drinkers who want variety
Dual filter system allows switching between ground coffee and capsules for convenience or experimentation.
People with limited counter space
Compact footprint fits easily in small kitchens or dorm rooms.
Users who prefer straightforward cleaning
Removable water tank and drip tray make routine cleaning hassle-free.
Is It Worth It?
What You Get
- Semi-automatic espresso machine with 20-bar pump
- Dual filter compatibility (grounds and capsules)
- Steam wand for milk frothing
- Auto shut-off and PID temperature control
- Compact stainless steel design
- All necessary accessories except milk pitcher
What You Pay
Around $103 (Amazon price)
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Empstorm espresso machine come with a milk frothing pitcher?
What is the portafilter size?
Can I use coffee capsules in this machine?
Does the machine have an auto shut-off feature?
What is the warranty on the Empstorm espresso machine?
How do I clean the steam wand?
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Product Specifications
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