Philips 2200 Review

When it comes to coffee makers, Philips is one of the well-known names that have been trusted for years. I recently had the opportunity to try out the Philips 2200 Series Fully Automatic Espresso Machine and was eager to see if it lived up to its reputation. As a coffee enthusiast who enjoys the perfect balance of convenience and quality, I put this machine through its paces. After weeks of brewing, adjusting settings, and even conducting a taste test, I feel ready to share a comprehensive review of the Philips 2200.

This review will be broken down into multiple sections, where I’ll cover everything from design and features to performance, maintenance, and value for money.

If you click the button above you will be redirected to Amazon.com. In case you then decide to buy anything, Amazon.com will pay me a commission. This doesn’t affect the honesty of this review in any way though.

Philips 2200 Specifications

Specification	Details
Model	Philips 2200 Series (EP2220/14)
Type	Fully Automatic Espresso Machine
Dimensions (W x D x H)	24.6 x 37.1 x 43.3 cm
Weight	Approx. 7.5 kg
Color	Black (with some silver accents)
Water Tank Capacity	1.8 liters
Bean Hopper Capacity	275 grams
Grinder Type	Ceramic grinder
Grind Settings	12 adjustable grind levels
Pump Pressure	15 bar
Brewing Temperature Range	90°C – 98°C
Drink Options	Espresso, Coffee, Americano
Coffee Strength Levels	3 (mild, medium, strong)
Milk Frothing	Manual (Panarello steam wand)
Pre-Ground Coffee Option	Yes
Coffee Spout Height	Adjustable (85 – 145 mm)
Brewing Group	Removable
Pre-Infusion	Yes
Display Type	LED screen with touch-sensitive controls
Power	230V / 1500W
Energy Saving Mode	Yes
Water Filter	AquaClean filter (up to 5000 cups without descaling)
Drip Tray Capacity	12 used coffee pucks
Auto Rinse Cycle	Yes (Automatic rinse cycle during startup/shutdown)
Descaling Indicator	Yes
Warranty	2 years

Unboxing and First Impressions

The unboxing of the Philips 2200 Series espresso machine sets the stage for an exciting experience. The packaging is straightforward but secure, ensuring the machine arrives in pristine condition. Upon removing the machine from the box, you are immediately struck by its sleek and modern design. It’s neither too bulky nor too light, which suggests a solid build but with a compact footprint that could fit nicely on any kitchen countertop.

Key Points:

• The exterior is primarily black, with a matte finish that feels premium.
• The interface is modern and simple, consisting of a few touch-sensitive buttons and a small digital display.
• The components feel sturdy, particularly the drip tray and water reservoir.

Size and Dimensions:

The machine’s compactness surprised me; at about 24.6 cm wide, 37.1 cm deep, and 43.3 cm tall, it’s not imposing, making it ideal even for smaller kitchens or limited countertop space. Weighing around 7-8 kg, it’s not too heavy but definitely feels solid, which was reassuring.

Design and Build Quality

The design is a crucial factor in any coffee machine, especially if it’s going to sit on your counter every day. The Philips 2200 scores well in terms of aesthetics, fitting seamlessly into any modern kitchen setup. It doesn’t scream for attention but has an understated elegance that most coffee lovers would appreciate.

Design Overview:

• Material: The machine is mostly made from plastic, but it’s high-quality, durable plastic. While some might prefer stainless steel, the matte plastic finish looks polished and is also easier to clean.
• Display: The intuitive control panel consists of touch-sensitive buttons and a small LCD screen. It’s not overly complicated, which I personally appreciate. The user interface is designed with minimalism in mind, but it offers all necessary functionalities.
• Colors: The machine primarily comes in black, with some silver detailing on the front, which gives it a sleek, professional look.

Build Quality:

I found the Philips 2200 to be well-constructed, with no obvious signs of cheap parts. The removable components, like the water tank and drip tray, snap in and out smoothly, without any wobbling. However, one area where I think there could be some improvement is the plastic steam wand. It’s functional but feels a bit less robust compared to the rest of the machine.

Features

The Philips 2200 Series isn’t packed with unnecessary bells and whistles, but it has all the essential features that coffee enthusiasts would expect from a fully automatic machine.

Coffee Customization:

The ability to customize your coffee is a huge selling point for this machine. It allows you to adjust:

• Coffee strength: From mild to strong, with three settings to choose from.
• Grind size: The machine has a built-in ceramic grinder with 12 settings, allowing you to fine-tune the grind size for optimal extraction.
• Cup size: You can choose between a small or large coffee, adjusting the amount of water used per cup.

Drinks Offered:

With a simple touch of a button, the Philips 2200 lets you brew:

• Espresso
• Regular Coffee
• Americano

It doesn’t offer an extensive range of drinks compared to higher-end machines, but these three options are more than sufficient for most coffee drinkers. I appreciated that the espresso it pulls is consistently rich and flavorful.

Aroma Extract System:

One of the standout features of the Philips 2200 is its Aroma Extract System, which optimizes the balance between brewing temperature and aroma extraction. This ensures that your coffee is brewed at the ideal temperature (between 90°C and 98°C) to maximize flavor while preventing it from being burnt. I found this to be particularly effective in improving the taste of espresso.

Milk Frother:

The Philips 2200 features a classic Panarello steam wand, which can be used to steam and froth milk manually. While it’s not as convenient as a fully automatic milk system, it allows for more control over the milk frothing process. It’s a great feature for those who like to experiment with lattes and cappuccinos.

I found that the steam wand produces a fine, velvety microfoam, but it can take some practice to master.

Ease of Use

One of the main reasons to invest in a fully automatic espresso machine is ease of use, and the Philips 2200 excels in this department. From the first cup to maintenance routines, the machine is designed to be as user-friendly as possible.

Setup and First Use:

Setting up the Philips 2200 was remarkably straightforward. The included manual provides step-by-step instructions, but the machine’s design is so intuitive that I barely needed to reference it. After filling the water reservoir and adding beans, I was able to brew my first cup in under 10 minutes.

User Interface:

The control panel is simple and effective. There are dedicated buttons for espresso, coffee, and hot water, as well as buttons for customizing your brew. The machine also features indicator lights for when it needs maintenance, such as descaling or adding water. The LCD screen is small but informative, giving clear instructions on each step.

Daily Use:

The Philips 2200 is designed for daily use without the hassle. The water tank and bean hopper are easily accessible, and the drip tray is large enough that you don’t need to empty it constantly. The coffee puck container can hold about 10 servings, so you don’t have to empty it every time you brew.

It’s incredibly easy to switch between different drinks, and once you find your preferred settings, you can have a perfect cup of coffee at the touch of a button.

Coffee Quality

Now, onto the most important aspect: how does the coffee taste? After weeks of testing various beans and brew settings, I’m pleased to report that the Philips 2200 delivers exceptional coffee quality for its price range.

Espresso Quality:

The espresso shot brewed by the Philips 2200 has a rich, full-bodied flavor with a thick layer of crema. The taste is on par with what you’d get from a good café, which is impressive for a home machine. The customizable grind settings allow you to tweak the flavor profile, whether you prefer a more bitter or balanced taste.

Coffee Strength:

The machine allows for adjustments in coffee strength, and I found the medium setting to be ideal for most beans. However, if you like your coffee strong, the highest setting gives you a much bolder taste without being overwhelming.

Aroma:

Thanks to the Aroma Extract System, the Philips 2200 excels at extracting rich aromas from the coffee beans. Even with cheaper beans, I noticed a significant improvement in the aroma and depth of flavor.

Milk Frothing

While the Philips 2200 isn’t a fully automatic milk system, it does come with a classic steam wand (Panarello). If you enjoy a well-made cappuccino or latte, you’ll be pleased to know that the frother delivers a decent performance.

Froth Quality:

The steam wand creates a fine, silky microfoam that’s perfect for lattes and cappuccinos. However, it does require some practice to get the technique right. You have to manually froth the milk, which may not be ideal for those looking for a hands-off experience, but for coffee purists, this is a great feature. It gives you control over the texture and temperature of the milk, which some automatic frothers can’t offer.

Usability:

The steam wand is easy to use, though it can take a few tries to master the right angle and depth for perfect frothing. I found that with practice, you can create café-quality froth for your drinks.

Grinder Performance

One of the standout features of the Philips 2200 is its built-in ceramic grinder. This grinder is not only durable but also highly effective in producing consistent grind sizes.

Grinder Settings:

There are 12 adjustable grind settings, ranging from coarse to fine. I found this range to be more than sufficient for most coffee types. Finer grinds work well for espresso, while coarser grinds are suitable for regular coffee.

Consistency:

The grinder’s performance is top-notch. It produces a consistent grind every time, which is critical for brewing great coffee. The ceramic burrs are also less prone to wear and tear compared to steel, ensuring longevity and durability.

Maintenance and Cleaning

Like any espresso machine, regular maintenance is essential to ensure long-term performance. The Philips 2200 makes this process relatively easy with several automated cleaning features.

Daily Cleaning:

The machine automatically rinses the coffee circuit when it’s turned on and off, which helps maintain freshness. The drip tray, water tank, and coffee grounds container are all removable and dishwasher

-safe, making them easy to clean.

Descaling:

The machine comes with a built-in descaling program, and it prompts you when it’s time to descale. Descaling the machine takes about 30 minutes, and the machine guides you through the entire process on the display screen. The included AquaClean filter is a great feature, as it reduces the need for descaling and improves the water quality for brewing.

Brew Group:

The brew group (the internal mechanism that brews the coffee) is removable, which is a huge plus. This allows you to clean it thoroughly under running water. Regular cleaning of the brew group ensures that the machine continues to perform optimally and keeps the coffee tasting fresh.

Value for Money

The Philips 2200 Series is priced in the mid-range for fully automatic espresso machines, making it an attractive option for coffee lovers who want convenience without sacrificing quality. Given the features and performance, I believe it offers excellent value for money.

Price Comparison:

When compared to other fully automatic machines in the same price range, the Philips 2200 holds its own in terms of coffee quality, build, and customization options. While it doesn’t have the advanced features of higher-end models (like a one-touch milk system), it delivers where it counts: in brewing a delicious cup of coffee consistently.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• High-quality coffee with rich flavor and crema.
• Compact and sleek design that fits well in any kitchen.
• User-friendly interface with customizable settings.
• Durable ceramic grinder with 12 grind settings.
• Removable brew group for easy cleaning.
• Good milk frothing capability (with practice).
• AquaClean filter reduces the need for descaling.
• Great value for money in the mid-range category.

Cons:

• The steam wand is manual, which may not appeal to everyone.
• Limited to three main drinks (espresso, coffee, and Americano).
• Mostly plastic construction, though it’s high-quality.
• The display screen is small, though it’s easy to navigate.
• Frothing milk can be tricky for beginners.

Comparison with Alternatives

Philips 2200 vs. De’Longhi Magnifica S

The De’Longhi Magnifica S is one of the closest competitors to the Philips 2200, with both machines positioned in the mid-range fully automatic espresso machine market. At a glance, these machines offer similar features: one-touch brewing, integrated grinders, and milk frothing capabilities. However, there are several key differences that might influence a buyer’s decision.

Coffee Customization:

While both machines allow customization, the De’Longhi Magnifica S offers more granular control over the coffee temperature, which is a bonus for those who are very particular about their brew. The Magnifica S also lets you adjust coffee and water quantities manually, giving more flexibility. On the other hand, the Philips 2200 is simpler in its operation, featuring preset coffee strengths and grind levels, but its Aroma Extract System helps optimize the balance between brewing temperature and aroma extraction, which enhances flavor consistency.

Milk Frothing:

When it comes to frothing milk, both machines feature manual steam wands, but the Magnifica S’s wand has a slight edge in ease of use and durability. It also produces slightly better microfoam, which is an advantage for cappuccino and latte drinkers. However, neither machine has an automatic milk frothing system, which might be a drawback for users seeking convenience.

Design and Ease of Use:

In terms of design, the Philips 2200 looks more modern and sleek compared to the Magnifica S, which has a more utilitarian and less refined appearance. The Philips 2200’s touch-sensitive controls and small digital display give it a contemporary edge, while the De’Longhi Magnifica S relies on traditional dial-based controls, which might feel a bit outdated.

Maintenance:

Both machines have removable brew groups for easy cleaning and maintenance, but the Philips 2200 comes with an AquaClean water filter. This filter reduces the need for frequent descaling and contributes to better-tasting coffee by purifying the water, a feature not present in the Magnifica S.

Verdict:

If you prefer a more modern design, easier maintenance with the AquaClean filter, and straightforward operation, the Philips 2200 is a solid choice. However, if you value greater control over coffee customization and prefer slightly better frothing performance, the De’Longhi Magnifica S might be the better option for your needs.

Philips 2200 vs. Gaggia Brera

The Gaggia Brera is another notable competitor in the same price range as the Philips 2200, offering similar features like automatic coffee brewing and milk frothing. Both machines are designed for coffee enthusiasts seeking convenience, but there are significant differences in their performance and usability.

Coffee Quality:

Both machines brew excellent coffee, but the Philips 2200 edges out the Gaggia Brera in terms of flavor consistency. The Aroma Extract System on the Philips ensures optimal brewing temperature and aroma, providing a more balanced and rich coffee experience. The Gaggia Brera, while delivering great espresso, can sometimes produce coffee that is slightly cooler due to its less advanced temperature control.

Design and Build:

The Gaggia Brera has a more compact and industrial design, with a stainless steel front panel that adds a premium feel. The Philips 2200 is also compact, but it’s made primarily of durable plastic, which may not feel as high-end to some users. Both machines are designed to fit easily into small kitchens, but the Gaggia Brera’s narrower footprint might make it a better option for very tight spaces.

Milk Frothing:

When it comes to milk frothing, both machines rely on manual steam wands, but the Gaggia Brera’s wand has a slight advantage in its placement and ease of use. It allows for slightly better control during frothing, especially for those familiar with manual frothing techniques. That said, the Philips 2200 still delivers excellent froth, though it may require a bit more practice.

Usability and Customization:

The Philips 2200 excels in terms of ease of use with its touch interface and digital display, making it more user-friendly for beginners. The Gaggia Brera, on the other hand, uses traditional buttons and dials, which can feel a bit more cumbersome. However, Gaggia offers more customization in terms of grind size, coffee strength, and the amount of water used per shot, appealing to those who enjoy tinkering with their coffee settings.

Maintenance:

Both machines feature removable brew groups and automatic rinsing cycles, but the Philips 2200’s AquaClean filter gives it a major edge in reducing the need for frequent descaling. The Gaggia Brera requires more regular descaling, which can be a hassle for some users.

Verdict:

If you prioritize ease of use, better flavor consistency, and low-maintenance operation, the Philips 2200 is the better choice. The Gaggia Brera may appeal more to those looking for a more premium design and slightly more customizable settings at the expense of convenience.

Philips 2200 vs. Jura A1

The Jura A1 is a more minimalist option compared to the Philips 2200, focused primarily on delivering excellent espresso with a simple design. Both machines cater to different types of users, and while they are in a similar price range, they offer distinct experiences.

Coffee Quality:

Both the Jura A1 and Philips 2200 are known for producing high-quality espresso. The Jura A1 features Jura’s Pulse Extraction Process (P.E.P.), which pulses water through the coffee for a more even extraction, resulting in exceptionally rich espresso with deep flavor. While the Philips 2200 also delivers a strong espresso shot, the Jura A1 has a slight edge when it comes to espresso lovers who want the best extraction possible.

Features and Functionality:

The Philips 2200 offers more versatility by providing the option to brew not only espresso but also regular coffee and Americanos. It also features a steam wand for frothing milk, making it a better choice for those who enjoy milk-based drinks like cappuccinos or lattes. In contrast, the Jura A1 is limited to espresso and ristretto, and it lacks a milk frothing system altogether. This means that if you want to make a cappuccino, you’ll need a separate milk frother.

Design:

The Jura A1 is known for its minimalist, sleek design. It’s smaller and more compact than the Philips 2200, making it ideal for users who prefer a machine that takes up very little space on their countertop. Its clean lines and all-black or white finish give it a luxurious look. While the Philips 2200 has a more functional, slightly bulkier design, it still looks modern and fits well in most kitchens.

Customization:

In terms of customization, the Philips 2200 offers more flexibility, allowing you to adjust coffee strength, grind size, and water quantity. The Jura A1, on the other hand, is more about simplicity. You can select the amount of water used for each shot, but there are fewer customizable options overall. If you’re someone who likes to adjust every element of your brew, the Philips 2200 is the better option.

Maintenance:

Both machines are designed to be low-maintenance, but the Philips 2200’s AquaClean filter gives it an edge in terms of reducing descaling frequency. The Jura A1 has a built-in cleaning and descaling program but requires more frequent maintenance, which can be a hassle for some users.

Verdict:

The Jura A1 is perfect for those who want a compact, espresso-focused machine with a minimalist design. However, if you want a machine that can make more than just espresso and offers milk frothing, the Philips 2200 is the more versatile and practical option for most users.

Philips 2200 vs. Saeco PicoBaristo

The Saeco PicoBaristo is another strong contender in the same price range as the Philips 2200. Both machines offer a range of features designed to make brewing high-quality coffee as easy as possible, but they have key differences in terms of functionality and user experience.

Coffee Customization:

When it comes to customization, the Saeco PicoBaristo offers more options than the Philips 2200. It has five different strength settings and multiple grind settings, giving users more control over the brewing process. Additionally, it allows for the customization of temperature and milk quantity, which adds another level of flexibility. While the Philips 2200 offers customization as well, it is more basic in comparison, with three coffee strength options and fewer grind settings.

Milk Frothing:

The Saeco PicoBaristo features an automatic milk frothing system, making it a more convenient option for those who enjoy milk-based drinks like lattes and cappuccinos. The Philips 2200, on the other hand, comes with a manual steam wand, which requires more effort and practice to froth milk properly. For users who prioritize convenience in milk frothing, the PicoBaristo is the clear winner here.

Maintenance:

Both machines have a reputation for being easy to maintain. The Philips 2200 stands out with its AquaClean filter, which significantly reduces the need for descaling. The Saeco PicoBaristo also features an AquaClean filter, so both machines share

this advantage. However, the Philips 2200’s brew group is easier to remove for cleaning, making it a bit more user-friendly when it comes to regular maintenance.

Design and Build:

The Saeco PicoBaristo has a more premium feel, with a combination of stainless steel and high-quality plastic parts. Its design is slightly more refined than the Philips 2200, which is mostly plastic. However, the Philips 2200’s compact and simple design might appeal more to those who prefer minimalist aesthetics and space-saving appliances.

Verdict:

The Saeco PicoBaristo is the better choice for users who want more customization options and an automatic milk frothing system. However, for those who prefer a simpler, more affordable machine that still produces excellent coffee and offers easy maintenance, the Philips 2200 is a strong competitor that holds its own in this price range.

Final Verdict

The Philips 2200 Series Fully Automatic Espresso Machine is a fantastic option for those who want a reliable, user-friendly, and customizable coffee experience without breaking the bank. It’s well-suited for coffee lovers who value quality but also want the convenience of a fully automatic machine. While it lacks some of the more advanced features found in pricier models, the Philips 2200 more than makes up for it with its consistent coffee quality, ease of use, and overall performance.

For anyone looking to bring the café experience into their home without the steep learning curve or high cost of more complex machines, the Philips 2200 is a great choice. I’m thoroughly satisfied with its performance and would recommend it to any coffee enthusiast who values a balance between convenience and flavor.

Rating: 4.5/5

This is a well-rounded machine that will satisfy most home baristas, with only a few minor areas where improvement could be made. At its price point, it’s hard to find a better fully automatic espresso machine that delivers consistently excellent coffee.