When it comes to making espresso at home, the market is flooded with various machines offering different features at a range of prices. The Casabrews 3700 Essential Espresso Machine falls into the category of affordable, user-friendly espresso machines aimed at bringing the café experience to your kitchen. With a growing interest in home coffee brewing and the rise of specialty coffee, this machine is marketed as an accessible option for those looking to make espresso drinks without the steep learning curve that typically comes with more expensive or professional-grade machines.
I’ve had the pleasure of using the Casabrews 3700 Essential for several months, and during this time, I’ve put it through its paces to see how it fares for both beginners and seasoned espresso enthusiasts. In this review, I’ll walk you through my experience with the machine, covering everything from its design and functionality to the quality of the coffee it produces. By the end, you’ll have a well-rounded understanding of whether or not this machine is worth adding to your home coffee setup.
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Table of Contents
First Impressions: Design and Build Quality
When I first unboxed the Casabrews 3700 Essential Espresso Machine, the initial impression was largely positive. The machine has a sleek, modern design that wouldn’t look out of place in any kitchen, whether you have a minimalist setup or a more traditional look. The exterior is a blend of brushed stainless steel and black plastic, giving it a professional appearance without being too bulky or ostentatious. In terms of footprint, it’s relatively compact, which is a big plus for those of us with limited counter space.
Size and Space Considerations
The Casabrews 3700 measures roughly 12 inches in height, 10 inches in width, and 14 inches in depth. This makes it comparable to many home espresso machines but significantly smaller than more commercial-grade models. It fits neatly into a corner of my kitchen countertop without dominating the space, and its lightweight build means it’s easy to move around if necessary. This is especially useful if you’re someone who likes to tuck your appliances away when not in use.
Materials and Build Quality
The machine’s main body is made of plastic, but it doesn’t feel flimsy. The stainless steel accents, like the drip tray and the control panel, add a touch of durability and sophistication. That being said, the plastic elements do remind you that this is a machine at a more affordable price point. While it doesn’t have the solid, weighty feel of more premium espresso machines, it also doesn’t feel cheap or breakable.
One minor gripe I had initially was that the portafilter is quite light compared to the more solid, heavy-duty ones you might find in professional machines. It’s made of aluminum, which is sturdy enough for home use, but I wondered if it would hold up over time with consistent use. After several months, though, I’m happy to report that it has proven durable, with no signs of wear or warping.
Setup and User Experience
Setting up the Casabrews 3700 Essential was straightforward, which is exactly what you want in a machine aimed at home users. It came with a clear, concise user manual that walked me through the initial steps, such as flushing the system and priming the pump. Within 15 minutes of unboxing, I had the machine ready to pull my first shot of espresso.
Control Panel and Interface
The control panel on this machine is intuitive and easy to navigate, which is a huge plus for beginners. It consists of a few simple buttons for power, single shot, and double shot, as well as an indicator light to let you know when the machine is heated up and ready to go. There’s also a steam function for frothing milk, which I’ll cover in more detail later.
The simplicity of the interface is both a strength and a limitation. On the one hand, you don’t need to have any prior experience with espresso machines to start using it. On the other hand, more advanced users might find it a bit lacking in terms of customization. For example, there’s no built-in timer or PID (Proportional Integral Derivative) controller, which helps regulate temperature more precisely. While this might be fine for casual users, those looking to dial in their espresso shots with extreme precision might feel a bit limited.
Water Reservoir
The water reservoir on the Casabrews 3700 is decently sized, holding up to 1.8 liters of water. This is more than enough for a few days of casual use, or multiple drinks if you’re making coffee for guests. The reservoir is located at the back of the machine and is easy to remove for refilling. One thing I appreciated was the clear design, allowing you to easily see how much water is left without needing to remove it.
The machine also comes with a water filter, which is a nice touch, especially if you live in an area with hard water. I found that using filtered water not only improved the taste of the espresso but also seemed to prolong the time between necessary descaling sessions.
Casabrews 3700 Essential Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Brand | Casabrews |
| Model | 3700 Essential |
| Type | Semi-automatic Espresso Machine |
| Dimensions (HxWxD) | 12 x 10 x 14 inches |
| Weight | Approx. 10 lbs (4.5 kg) |
| Material | Brushed stainless steel and plastic |
| Water Reservoir Capacity | 1.8 liters |
| Pressure | 15 bars |
| Heating System | Thermoblock |
| Boiler Material | Stainless steel |
| Control Panel | Button-based with indicator lights |
| Coffee Type Compatibility | Ground coffee |
| Portafilter Size | 58 mm |
| Steam Wand | Yes, manual (single-hole tip) |
| Milk Frothing | Yes, steam wand for milk frothing and steaming |
| Cup Warmer | No |
| Filter Basket | Single and double shot included |
| Power | 1350 watts |
| Voltage | 120V (USA) / 220-240V (International) |
| Pump Type | Vibration pump |
| Pre-Infusion | No |
| Temperature Control | Manual (no PID) |
| Energy Saving Mode | Yes (Auto shut-off) |
| Included Accessories | Portafilter, single & double filter baskets, tamper, measuring spoon |
| Warranty | 1 year |
Brewing Performance
At the end of the day, an espresso machine is judged by the quality of coffee it can produce, and the Casabrews 3700 Essential delivers solid results in this department, though it’s important to keep in mind that it’s not a high-end machine.
Heating System and Temperature Stability
The Casabrews 3700 Essential uses a Thermoblock heating system, which is common in espresso machines at this price point. This system heats water on demand, meaning you don’t have to wait long between pulling a shot and steaming milk. In my experience, the machine heats up in about 30 seconds, which is relatively quick and convenient for busy mornings.
However, temperature stability is not as consistent as you’d find in machines with a more advanced boiler system or a PID controller. This means that there might be slight fluctuations in temperature from shot to shot. While this isn’t a deal-breaker for me, especially considering the price point, more discerning users might find it frustrating if they’re looking for perfect consistency.
Espresso Quality
Now, onto the most important part: the espresso itself. After pulling dozens of shots with different beans, I can confidently say that the Casabrews 3700 Essential produces a decent espresso, especially for a machine in this price range. The shots have good crema, which is often a concern with lower-end machines, and the taste is generally well-balanced.
That being said, it does take a bit of trial and error to get consistently good results. I found that using freshly ground coffee from a burr grinder made a significant difference in the quality of the shot. The machine doesn’t come with a built-in grinder, which is something to keep in mind if you don’t already own one. Pre-ground coffee tends to be less consistent and can lead to under-extracted or over-extracted shots.
In terms of pressure, the machine boasts 15 bars, which is standard for home espresso machines. I found that this was more than enough to extract good flavor from the beans, but it’s worth noting that more advanced machines with adjustable pressure settings might allow for more nuanced control over the extraction process.
Frothing Milk and Steaming Performance
For those who enjoy milk-based drinks like lattes and cappuccinos, the Casabrews 3700 Essential includes a steam wand for frothing milk. This is where the machine starts to show some of its limitations. The steam wand is functional, but it doesn’t have the same power or control as more expensive machines.
It takes a bit longer to steam milk compared to a commercial-grade machine, and the texture of the microfoam can be a bit inconsistent. That being said, with some practice, I was able to achieve decent results for lattes and cappuccinos, though the milk wasn’t quite as velvety as I’d get from a more advanced machine. If you’re primarily making espresso shots and only occasionally frothing milk, this machine will serve you well. However, if milk-based drinks are a daily staple, you might find yourself wishing for a bit more steam power and control.
Ease of Cleaning and Maintenance
One of the aspects of any espresso machine that’s easy to overlook is the cleaning and maintenance process, but this is crucial for ensuring your machine stays in good working order over time.
Cleaning the Machine
The Casabrews 3700 Essential is relatively easy to clean. The drip tray, water reservoir, and portafilter are all removable, which makes day-to-day cleaning a breeze. I found that wiping down the exterior and flushing the machine with water after each use kept it in good condition. The steam wand does require a bit more attention, as milk residue can build up if it’s not cleaned immediately after use. Fortunately, the wand is easy to wipe down, and it comes with a detachable tip that can be soaked or cleaned separately.
Descaling
Descaling is an important part of maintaining any espresso machine, especially if you live in an area with hard water. The Casabrews 3700 Essential doesn’t have an automatic descaling program, but the process is fairly simple. The user manual provides clear instructions on how to descale the machine using a descaling solution or a mixture of water and vinegar. I followed the recommended schedule of descaling every 2-3 months, and so far, I haven’t encountered any issues with scale buildup.
Value for Money
The Casabrews 3700 Essential sits in the mid-range category of home espresso machines, and for the price, it offers good value. While it lacks some of the advanced features you’d find in higher-end machines, it still delivers solid espresso with minimal effort. For someone who’s just getting into espresso or who wants a reliable machine without breaking the bank, this is a great option.
Pros
- Affordable: The price is accessible for those who want a decent espresso machine without investing in a high-end model.
- User-Friendly: The simple interface makes it easy for beginners to use.
- Compact Design: It doesn’t take up too much counter space, making it a good choice for smaller kitchens.
- Good Espresso Quality: With some practice, it can produce well-balanced espresso shots with good crema.
- Decent Steam Wand: While not the most powerful, the steam wand is functional for milk frothing.
Cons
- Lack of Advanced Features: No built-in grinder, PID control, or adjustable pressure settings, which might limit more experienced users.
- Inconsistent Temperature Stability: The Thermoblock heating system isn’t as precise as more advanced options.
- Steam Power: The steam wand isn’t as powerful as what you’d find on more expensive machines, which can make frothing milk more challenging.
Comparison with Alternatives
Casabrews 3700 Essential vs. Breville Bambino Plus
The Breville Bambino Plus and Casabrews 3700 Essential both target entry-level users, but there are notable differences. The Bambino Plus features Breville’s ThermoJet heating system, which heats in just 3 seconds, faster than Casabrews’ 30-second heat-up time. Both machines have a 15-bar pressure pump, but Breville includes more precise temperature control with automatic steam wand adjustment for consistent milk frothing, whereas Casabrews offers manual control.
Casabrews 3700 provides good espresso quality at a lower price, though Breville’s microfoam texture and rapid steaming stand out. The Casabrews 3700’s simplicity is perfect for beginners on a budget, but the Bambino Plus offers greater control and better frothing for those focused on milk-based drinks.
If speed and frothing precision matter most, the Bambino Plus wins, but for a more affordable espresso experience, the Casabrews 3700 offers solid performance.
Casabrews 3700 Essential vs. Gaggia Classic Pro
The Gaggia Classic Pro is more robust and geared toward intermediate users, while the Casabrews 3700 Essential caters to beginners. Gaggia offers a commercial-style 58mm portafilter and a three-way solenoid valve for better extraction control, providing an edge for espresso enthusiasts aiming for café-quality shots. Meanwhile, Casabrews has an easier-to-use interface with fewer manual adjustments.
Both feature a 15-bar pump, but Gaggia’s steam wand is more powerful and versatile, perfect for creating professional-grade froth. However, it takes longer to heat up compared to Casabrews’ faster Thermoblock system.
Overall, the Gaggia Classic Pro is a better choice for advanced users seeking high-end espresso customization, while the Casabrews 3700 offers a budget-friendly, user-friendly experience for casual home baristas.
Casabrews 3700 Essential vs. De’Longhi Dedica Deluxe
The De’Longhi Dedica Deluxe is another budget-friendly espresso machine similar to the Casabrews 3700 Essential, with both featuring a compact design and 15-bar pressure systems. The Dedica has a slimmer profile, making it ideal for small kitchens, while Casabrews is slightly bulkier but still compact.
De’Longhi’s key advantage is the inclusion of a manual frother with adjustable controls for creating different milk textures, while Casabrews offers a simpler steam wand. Dedica also features adjustable temperature settings, which Casabrews lacks, giving users more flexibility in brewing. However, the Casabrews 3700 has a larger water tank (1.8L vs. Dedica’s 1.1L), which requires fewer refills.
For users seeking temperature control and compactness, De’Longhi Dedica Deluxe is the better choice, while the Casabrews 3700 offers a slightly more budget-friendly option with a larger water capacity and a straightforward interface.
Conclusion: Who Is the Casabrews 3700 Essential Espresso Machine For?
The Casabrews 3700 Essential Espresso Machine is an excellent option for those new to espresso or those who want to enjoy café-style drinks at home without investing in a more complex and expensive machine. It offers a good balance between ease of use, performance, and price. While it doesn’t have the advanced features that more experienced espresso enthusiasts might look for, it’s a great starting point for those looking to make espresso a part of their daily routine.
Overall, I’d recommend the Casabrews 3700 Essential to anyone who wants to enjoy decent espresso and milk-based drinks at home without too much hassle or financial investment. It’s a reliable, straightforward machine that will serve you well for day-to-day coffee needs.