KitchenAid Fully Automatic Espresso Machine KF7, KES8557

We upgraded from a Phillips 4300 and this machine is a complete game changer and well worth the extra few hundred dollars. The user interface and screen are much nicer and easier to use. The machine also prompts you when to do all maintenance and cleanings, which is super helpful. The brew unit is easy to remove and clean there are way less nooks and crannies to worry about. It also stores way more water in the reservoir, same with the disposed pucks container. Not to mention there was no break-in period, Unlike the Phillips, which took forever to dial-in. The drinks taste amazing and are much hotter than what the Phillips was able to produce. As far as the milk frothing and warming goes, I have no issues. The texture is amazing. I also appreciate how large the milk container is and how easy it is to use. The fact that it’s “separate”, unlike the Phillips, doesn’t really matter because you’re gonna put the milk container from either device in the fridge anyways. The only difference is there is one extra step in attaching the hose to the KitchenAid. Which I feel is a fair trade-off given how much larger the milk container is and it’s easier to clean. Also, the bean hopper is great because it never jams which I’ve had nothing but issues with the Phillips. It’s also super easy to remove to replace the beans. I have just enough clearance under my cabinets (18” from countertop to cabinet) to remove the bean hopper. Lastly, it’s way quieter. I’m running out of good things to say at this point. I’m no espresso snob by any means but I love this machine. Oh…and the kitchenaid just looks way nicer.

I'm a heavy coffee drinker (6 shots of expresso per day, easily) and I'm very pleased with the performance of this machine. It was so easy to set up and to use. It cleans itself after it's gone idle before it turns itself off. And it cleans itself again when you start it up which I think will really help its overall performance in the long run. Some people mention the the shots are weak or not hot enough but that is not my experience. It's terrific and will pay for itself in a couple of months with my coffee habit!

Pros: 1. Great flavored espressos. I had seen reviews that said that this made a "weak-ass" espresso. I completely disagree. My first espresso was made on the 3-bean setting due to reviews and it was super-strong. I had to dial back my subsequent espressos to 2-bean - and this was with Lavazza Dek Decaf. 2. Rich, thick crema on the espresso and straight coffee. 3. More than hot enough (I had read other reviews saying the temp was lukewarm, I think they must have had a faulty machine). 4. Remarkably quiet. No more waking others in the house up with loud grinding in the morning. 5. Exceptional build quality. 6. Simplified, menu-driven cleaning. 7. Large storable milk container. If you eschew carbs like me, use half and half or diluted heavy whipping cream. Big step up from milk. 8. Rollers on the bottom allow you to easily pull the machine out toward the front of the counter. 9. Swappable bean bins. One for full-strength in the AM and one for in the afternoon (you'll need to buy the extra bin) 10. Creates a solid medium-large puck. 11. If you have an RO system that is in good working condition, you can probably skip the filters. 12. Four user profiles and a simple user interface. Cons: 1. Medium-tall coffee cups only. Not travel mug friendly. You can use a travel mug, but you'll have to futz with the mug as it fills. 2. Expensive for only 20 drink options. Though they are admittedly strong options. The De'Longhi Eletta Explore has lots more options and is probably a better option if variety is a high priority. 3. Large. Very large. 4. Unlike other premium Super Espresso machines, there is no granular control of the coffee volume output. Single and Double - that's it. Update: After 3 month of usage, the bottom bracket of the spout holder broke into three pieces. I am currently dealing with Asurion to have it replaced. Overall still a stellar machine though coffee could be hotter, but I am now concerned with longevity. I removed and cleaned the spout probably 6-10 times during the period I owned the machine. One day I noticed that there were two pieces of plastic on the metal grate. I initially thought they had come from the spout, but on further inspection found that the base plate for the spout had cracked - possibly weakened by heat stress?

First impression after 1week of use. Touchscreen is self intuitive and easy to command. Machine makes great coffee but the is no regulation of the volume of the drink while there is regulation for the strength and temperature whatever it is good for. Machine uses significant amount of water from the container ( about 1/2 gallon) for starting itself up, rinsing after each serving and the tray has to be emptied every 6 servings or so. Perhaps this will keep it clean and running better but is bothersome.

The Automac coffee machine is a sleek and user-friendly appliance that delivers consistently rich and flavorful coffee. Its intuitive interface makes it easy to brew a variety of coffee types, from espresso to cappuccino. The machine heats up quickly and features a powerful pump for optimal extraction. Maintenance is simple with removable components and a self-cleaning function. Overall, the Automac offers excellent value for money, making it a great choice for coffee enthusiasts looking for convenience and quality in their daily brew.

Amazing easy machine to use it brings back the joy of drinking espresso and cappuccino without any mess.

Fantastic - the espresso is great (good extraction). The milk froth it’s thick and holds up. Not exactly micro foam, but dense and lasts much better than the foam that Phillips machines with the LatteGo provide. Being able to switch beans and have a decaf in the afternoon/evening is wonderful.