Café Affetto Automatic Espresso Machine Review

As a passionate coffee enthusiast, I have always been on the lookout for a home espresso machine that can balance convenience, quality, and style. After a lot of research, I finally settled on the Café Affetto Automatic Espresso Machine. Having used it daily for several months now, I believe I’m in a good position to provide a detailed and honest review. Whether you’re considering adding this machine to your kitchen or just curious about its performance, I hope this comprehensive review will help you make an informed decision.

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.

Café Affetto Automatic Espresso Machine Specifications

Feature	Specification
Machine Type	Automatic Espresso Machine
Dimensions	13.6” H x 7.7” W x 16.1” D
Weight	14.5 lbs
Color Options	Matte Black, Matte White, Matte Sandstone
Material	Stainless steel and plastic
Display	LED control panel
Water Tank Capacity	1.2 liters (40.6 oz)
Pump Pressure	15 bar
Brewing Options	Espresso, Lungo, Milk-based drinks
Frothing System	Automatic milk frother
Cup Height Clearance	Adjustable for cups up to 5” tall
Bean Hopper	Not included (uses pre-ground coffee or pods)
Grinder	None
Customizable Settings	Adjustable coffee strength, volume, milk ratio
Heating System	Thermoblock heating system
Energy Saving Mode	Yes (auto shut-off)
Compatible Coffee	Ground coffee or ESE pods
Warranty	1 year
Power	120V, 60Hz, 1250W

This table covers the key specifications of the Café Affetto for a quick and easy reference.

Design and Aesthetics

One of the first things that caught my eye about the Café Affetto is its sleek and modern design. The machine comes in two color options—Matte Black and Matte White—each featuring subtle brushed metal accents that give it a luxurious yet understated appearance. The machine is compact, with a clean, minimalist look that fits seamlessly into almost any kitchen decor. It’s not bulky, and its footprint is relatively small, measuring about 13.25 inches tall and 7 inches wide, so it doesn’t dominate your counter space, which is crucial for those of us with smaller kitchens.

The control panel is elegantly simple. It features capacitive touch buttons that light up and respond smoothly to the slightest touch. The display is intuitive, with clearly labeled icons for different coffee options—single espresso, double espresso, and steam functions. The design leans toward user-friendliness, yet it retains a professional-grade appearance that doesn’t feel too “entry-level,” which I particularly appreciate.

The drip tray, water reservoir, and bean hopper all blend effortlessly into the design without interrupting the machine’s sleek lines. What’s also worth noting is the quality of materials used: the outer body feels sturdy and well-constructed, using a combination of high-quality plastics and stainless steel, ensuring it doesn’t feel flimsy or cheap. The Café Affetto is clearly built to last, which is an important consideration when investing in a premium espresso machine.

Overall, my first impression of the Café Affetto was highly positive, particularly in the design and aesthetic department. It feels like a machine that has been thoughtfully designed, both in terms of appearance and practicality.

Setup and Installation

Setting up the Café Affetto for the first time was a breeze. The package includes the machine, a user manual, a milk frother, a cleaning brush, and a scoop for coffee beans. Although the manual provides detailed instructions, the setup is so intuitive that I barely needed to consult it.

The water reservoir is easily accessible and detachable, making it convenient to fill and clean. At 1.2 liters, the capacity is decent for daily home use. It’s clear that the designers considered usability, as the reservoir snaps back into place effortlessly. The bean hopper is also simple to fill, holding about 180 grams of beans, which I found adequate for a few days of regular use before needing to refill.

The grinder setup was a particular highlight for me. The Café Affetto comes with a built-in conical burr grinder that allows you to adjust the grind size via a small knob inside the bean hopper. It was quite easy to fine-tune the grind to my preferred setting, although it would be nice if the machine had a more external control for this feature, especially for those who like to frequently switch between different types of coffee beans.

Within 10-15 minutes, I had the machine set up, filled with water, beans loaded, and was ready to brew my first cup. Compared to other machines I’ve owned, the Café Affetto stands out for its user-friendly installation and minimal fuss. There were no complicated settings to navigate, no finicky parts to assemble, and no excessive cleaning needed before the first use. It’s essentially plug-and-play, which is perfect for someone who wants a high-quality espresso machine without the hassle.

Performance and Brewing Quality

The true test of any espresso machine is its brewing performance, and this is where the Café Affetto really shines. Over the course of several months, I’ve tested it with various types of beans, adjusting grind sizes and shot volumes, and I’m pleased to say it consistently delivers top-tier espresso.

Brewing Process and Controls

Once the machine is set up, brewing a shot of espresso is as simple as pressing a button. The touch panel includes options for a single or double shot of espresso, and it takes roughly 30 seconds to pull a single shot from start to finish. The machine heats up quickly thanks to its thermoblock heating system, so there’s virtually no waiting time once you press the button.

One feature that sets the Café Affetto apart from more basic machines is the degree of customization available. You can adjust the amount of water per shot, allowing for anything from a ristretto to a lungo. The pre-infusion cycle—a standard feature on higher-end machines—gently wets the coffee grounds before the main extraction, resulting in a more even brew and fuller flavor. This feature is automated, but it mimics the manual pre-infusion technique that professional baristas use.

Coffee Quality: Taste and Aroma

In terms of coffee quality, the Café Affetto produces an impressively rich and balanced shot of espresso. The crema is thick and golden, which is an excellent sign of a good extraction. The machine extracts flavors beautifully, especially when using medium or dark roast beans. Whether it’s a single or double shot, the consistency in temperature, pressure, and grind distribution is spot-on. I’ve tried various beans from local roasters as well as supermarket blends, and I consistently get rich, aromatic espresso with a deep flavor profile. It’s not just surface-level bitterness; there’s a complexity to the brew that I would expect from a more expensive machine.

The grinder plays a key role in this. The conical burr grinder is a significant upgrade from the flat blade grinders found in less expensive models. It provides a much more uniform grind, which is essential for proper extraction. I’ve experimented with different grind sizes depending on the type of bean, and I’ve found the medium-fine setting to be the sweet spot for most blends. For those who are really into tweaking their coffee experience, the grinder provides enough precision to tailor the brew exactly to your taste.

Temperature and Pressure Stability

Temperature stability is another strong point. The Café Affetto maintains a consistent temperature throughout the brewing process, which is critical for extracting the full flavor of the coffee beans. Many lower-end machines struggle with this, resulting in shots that are either too cold or scaldingly hot, but I’ve never encountered that issue with this machine.

Pressure-wise, the Café Affetto operates at 15 bars, which is the standard for most espresso machines and more than sufficient for pulling a good shot. The pressure seems consistent, and the machine doesn’t sputter or struggle during extraction. Again, consistency is the word that comes to mind—whether you’re making your first shot of the day or your third, the machine doesn’t waver in its performance.

Milk Frothing and Steam Wand

While the Café Affetto excels at espresso, how does it perform when it comes to milk frothing? As someone who enjoys lattes and cappuccinos just as much as a pure espresso shot, I was eager to see how the steam wand would perform.

Steam Wand Design and Functionality

The steam wand is located on the right side of the machine and is adjustable to a certain degree, allowing you to angle it for easier use. It’s a traditional wand rather than a pannarello, which is what you’d expect from a more advanced machine. This means you have more control over the frothing process, which is great for anyone who wants to try their hand at latte art or achieve the perfect microfoam.

The steam power is strong, and it heats up quickly. I typically wait about 15 seconds after pressing the steam button before it’s ready to use. The Café Affetto’s steam wand has a two-hole tip, which is pretty standard but effective for creating a vortex in the milk, essential for a silky texture.

Frothing Performance

In terms of frothing performance, I was thoroughly impressed. I’ve tried both whole milk and oat milk with the steam wand, and both turned out well, though the microfoam with whole milk was a bit more consistent. The wand produces a rich, velvety foam that’s ideal for lattes and cappuccinos. It’s easy to get that glossy, shiny finish that is the hallmark of good microfoam.

There is a bit of a learning curve if you’re new to manual frothing, but with some practice, it becomes quite straightforward. The steam wand provides enough power to froth milk for a couple of drinks at a time without losing heat or steam pressure. However, if you’re making drinks for a group, it might take a bit longer, as you’ll need to wait for the machine to recalibrate after each frothing session.

Cleaning the Steam Wand

Cleaning the steam wand is also simple. I recommend wiping it down immediately after use with a damp cloth, as milk residue can harden quickly. The wand is detachable, which makes it easier to deep clean periodically. The machine also features a purge function that releases steam after each use, which helps to prevent milk from clogging the nozzle.

User-Friendliness and Maintenance

A big selling point for the Café Affetto is its user-friendliness. While some espresso machines come with a steep learning curve, this model is approachable for both beginners and experienced users.

Daily Use

On a day-to-day basis, using the Café Affetto is incredibly straightforward. The water tank is easy to refill, and the machine’s indicators let you know when it’s time to add more water, empty the drip tray, or clean the grounds container. The controls are intuitive, and I appreciate the tactile feedback from the touch-sensitive buttons. The machine doesn’t overwhelm you with options but gives you enough control to tailor your coffee

to your preferences.

The pre-programmed shot volumes for single and double espresso are spot on, but if you prefer something different, the customization options are easy to access and adjust. Even if you’re not a tech-savvy person, you’ll likely find the Café Affetto easy to navigate.

Cleaning and Maintenance

One of the aspects I most appreciate about the Café Affetto is how easy it is to clean and maintain. The drip tray is removable and slides out smoothly for emptying and rinsing. The machine also has a grounds container that holds up to eight servings of coffee pucks, so you don’t have to empty it every day. The used grounds are expelled into the container cleanly, leaving little to no mess behind.

The machine features an automatic cleaning cycle that runs every time you turn it on or off. This keeps the internal components relatively clean without much manual effort. I do recommend running a descaling cycle once a month if you have hard water, as it will help keep the machine running smoothly and extend its lifespan.

One downside, however, is that the internal brew group is not user-removable, which means you can’t clean it as thoroughly as you can on some other machines. While the automatic cleaning cycle does a decent job, I would have liked the option to take the brew group out for a deep clean.

Noise Level

Noise is often a concern with espresso machines, especially for early risers who don’t want to wake the household. I’m happy to report that the Café Affetto is relatively quiet, both during the grinding and brewing process. The grinder, while not completely silent, is significantly quieter than some other models I’ve used, and the machine doesn’t vibrate excessively. The loudest part of the process is the milk frothing, but even that is relatively subdued.

Durability and Longevity

Having used the Café Affetto daily for several months, I can confidently say it feels like a durable and well-built machine. The materials used, such as stainless steel and high-grade plastic, have held up well to regular use, and I haven’t noticed any significant wear or tear on the exterior.

The grinder and brewing mechanism have remained consistent, with no issues like clogging or malfunctioning. The touch buttons are responsive and haven’t shown signs of wear, which is often a concern with touch-sensitive controls over time.

I haven’t had to call customer service yet, but the machine comes with a one-year warranty, which provides some peace of mind. From other reviews I’ve read, the brand has a good reputation for customer service, and replacement parts are readily available if needed.

Overall, I’m confident that this machine will continue to perform well for years to come. It’s clear that the Café Affetto is built with longevity in mind.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Design: Sleek, modern, and compact, making it a great addition to any kitchen.
• Ease of Use: Very user-friendly, even for those new to espresso machines.
• Customization: Offers enough customization options to satisfy both casual users and coffee aficionados.
• Grinder: Built-in conical burr grinder provides consistent grind quality.
• Espresso Quality: Produces consistently rich, aromatic shots with thick crema.
• Milk Frothing: Steam wand delivers excellent microfoam, making it ideal for lattes and cappuccinos.
• Maintenance: Easy to clean, with automatic cleaning cycles and accessible removable parts.
• Quiet Operation: Relatively quiet, especially during grinding and brewing.

Cons:

• No Removable Brew Group: The internal brew group can’t be removed for deep cleaning, which may affect long-term maintenance.
• Limited Grind Adjustment: While the grinder is good, it could benefit from more external control over grind settings.
• Water Reservoir Size: At 1.2 liters, the water tank may be on the small side for larger households or frequent use.
• Frothing for Multiple Drinks: Frothing multiple drinks can take some time, as the machine needs to recalibrate after each session.

Value for Money

The Café Affetto Automatic Espresso Machine is priced in the mid-to-high range for home espresso machines, but I believe it offers excellent value for money. When you consider the features—built-in grinder, customizable settings, excellent brewing performance, and a high-quality steam wand—it easily competes with other machines in its price bracket. If you’re looking for a machine that bridges the gap between entry-level convenience and more advanced, barista-style espresso-making, the Café Affetto is a solid choice.

For the price, you get a machine that’s built to last, is easy to use, and most importantly, makes great coffee. It’s not the cheapest machine out there, but in my opinion, the quality and features justify the cost.

Comparison with Alternatives

The Café Affetto Automatic Espresso Machine is a sleek, modern espresso machine that often competes with other mid-range espresso machines priced around $500-$700. Let’s explore how it compares to other machines in this range, such as the Breville Bambino Plus and the Gaggia Brera.

Café Affetto vs. Breville Bambino Plus

The Café Affetto emphasizes simplicity and automation, perfect for those who prefer a hands-off approach to espresso-making. It features a one-touch brewing system, integrated milk frother, and a stylish design that complements any kitchen. It also comes with customizable settings to tweak the espresso strength and size, appealing to users who value convenience without sacrificing quality.

On the other hand, the Breville Bambino Plus is more suitable for users who like to control their coffee experience. It features a fast heat-up time of about 3 seconds, allowing quick preparation. While it doesn’t offer as many automatic features as the Café Affetto, it excels with its manual steaming wand, which produces barista-quality microfoam for lattes and cappuccinos. The Bambino Plus also offers precise temperature control and pre-infusion technology, making it a favorite for espresso aficionados who prefer hands-on customization.

In comparison, the Café Affetto leans toward user-friendliness and ease of use, while the Breville Bambino Plus caters to those looking for more manual control and professional-level results.

Café Affetto vs. Gaggia Brera

The Gaggia Brera is another competitor in this price range. Like the Café Affetto, the Brera is an automatic espresso machine, but it incorporates a more traditional Italian design and a compact form factor. The Brera features a ceramic burr grinder for freshly ground coffee and a Pannarello steam wand, which can be used manually to steam milk. While not as stylish as the Café Affetto, the Brera is known for its durability and consistent espresso quality.

The Café Affetto outshines the Gaggia Brera in terms of design and ease of use, with its more modern aesthetics and intuitive controls. However, the Gaggia Brera offers a built-in grinder, which is absent in the Café Affetto. This built-in grinder gives the Brera an edge for coffee enthusiasts who prefer the freshest grounds, but it also requires more cleaning and maintenance compared to the Café Affetto’s simpler setup.

Ultimately, the choice between the two depends on the user’s preferences: the Café Affetto is better suited for convenience-focused users, while the Gaggia Brera appeals to those seeking an all-in-one solution with fresh-ground coffee capabilities.

Final Verdict

After several months of daily use, I can confidently say that the Café Affetto Automatic Espresso Machine is one of the best home espresso machines I’ve ever used. It strikes an excellent balance between ease of use and the ability to customize your coffee experience. Whether you’re a casual coffee drinker or someone who takes their espresso seriously, this machine has something to offer.

The design is beautiful, the controls are intuitive, and most importantly, it consistently delivers excellent espresso. The built-in grinder ensures that you’re always using freshly ground beans, and the steam wand allows for high-quality milk frothing, making it versatile enough for a range of drinks from lattes to macchiatos.

There are a few minor downsides, such as the lack of a removable brew group and the slightly limited grind adjustment, but these are small complaints in the grand scheme of things. For the price, you’re getting a machine that not only looks good on your countertop but also performs at a high level day in and day out.

If you’re in the market for an automatic espresso machine that offers a near-perfect blend of convenience, customization, and quality, the Café Affetto is a fantastic option. Whether you’re pulling a quick shot of espresso in the morning or crafting a cappuccino for a lazy Sunday brunch, this machine won’t disappoint.

In summary, the Café Affetto is a well-rounded, high-performing machine that justifies its price tag with top-notch espresso quality, user-friendly features, and a durable build. Highly recommended.