ExploreHorizon 20 Bar Espresso Machine with Built-In Grinder & Milk Frother, 1.5L Removable Water Tank, Adjustable Shot Volume & 30 Grind Settings, Stainless Steel

Product Overview

Espresso machines with built-in grinders promise convenience, but they often sacrifice quality or durability. The ExploreHorizon EA816B70 tries to bridge that gap with a 20-bar pump—common in prosumer machines—and 30 grind settings for precise coffee particle sizing. Its stainless steel construction gives it a weight of 24 pounds, suggesting sturdy internals. The machine measures 12.44 by 13.78 by 16.32 inches, fitting most kitchen counters, though you'll need space above to load beans into the hopper. The milk frother is a separate wand, not an automatic steam arm, which gives you manual control over milk texture. The 1.5-liter tank is removable for easy filling, and the drip tray pulls out for cleaning. There's no PID temperature control or pressure profiling, but the adjustable shot volume lets you set a custom pour for single or double shots. The grinder uses a conical burr set (implied by adjustable grind), though the manufacturer doesn't specify burr material. For home use, it should produce enough espresso for 2–3 back-to-back drinks before needing a refill. The machine does not include a tamper or milk pitcher in the box, only a milk frother accessory. Overall, the EA816B70 positions itself as a mid-range option that combines grinding and brewing to minimize steps between bean and cup.

Build & Materials

The ExploreHorizon EA816B70 is built around a stainless steel chassis, giving it a professional look and added weight for stability during tamping and steam wand use. The 1.5-liter water tank is placed at the back and lifts off for refilling, which is easier than fixed tanks but requires clearance above the machine. The drip tray is also removable and has a water-level float indicator, a thoughtful touch. The portafilter uses a pressurized basket design, which aids crema production with pre-ground coffee or uneven grinds. The steam wand articulates to the side, and its tip is a single-hole design, allowing decent microfoam with practice. The bean hopper sits on top and has a lid to keep beans fresh. The grinder adjustment dial is on the side, offering 30 click-stops from fine to coarse. Cleaning the grinder requires regular disassembly of the burrs, typical for maintenance. Build quality seems adequate for daily home use, but the plastic components in the water tank and hopper may not withstand years of heavy commercial abuse.

The included steam wand is separate from the brewing unit, which is standard for single-boiler machines. The machine features a basic on/off switch for brewing and steaming, with indicator lights for operation. The drip tray's float shows when it needs emptying, preventing overflow. All external buttons are clearly labeled, making the interface beginner-friendly. The water tank has a handle molded in for easy carrying.

Shot Quality

The 20-bar pump provides more than sufficient pressure for espresso extraction, though the actual brew pressure is typically regulated to 9 bars via an overpressure valve. The built-in grinder produces consistent grounds across its 30 settings; fine enough for espresso and coarse enough for French press. However, without a dose control or timer, you must manually dial in the grind time for your desired dose. The steam wand takes about 30–45 seconds to produce steam from cold, and its single-hole tip creates foam that is airy but can be refined with technique. Temperature stability is a challenge for single-boiler machines like this; you'll need to wait between brewing and steaming.

The adjustable shot volume is a plus—you can program single or double shot sizes by holding the button until the desired volume is dispensed. The machine does not have a shot timer, so you'll rely on volume rather than time for consistency. Leak resistance is adequate if the portafilter is properly locked, and the drip tray catches any spills. Overall, performance is typical for a machine in this price range: capable of good espresso with some practice.