Personal Coffee Maker - single cup coffee maker, personal coffee maker

Click here for more information I love coffee. And, I'm kind of an elitist when it comes to coffee. I can only use really good beans-- right now I'm using Lavazza, but my every day coffee is starbucks brand. The problem is, I cannot produce a good POT of coffee for the life of me. I don't know why. I use filtered water. I clean out the carafe. My regular every day machine has a water filter. I don't know why my pots of coffee are horrid compared to my husband's pots of coffee, which taste as if they came from the local coffeehouse/espresso bar.



So, after getting a free senseo (YUCK!), and giving it to a friend, I bought this little coffee maker. IT makes a really good cup of coffee I have not messed up even one time. And, I use it 5-10 times per day. It is just excellent. I've been looking at the higher priced one cup makers, such as the Tassimo, but I'm not sure I need it. With freshly ground good beans, this little coffee maker does the job.



This coffee maker, by the way, makes a hot cup of coffee-- definitely as hot as every full-size coffeemaker I've ever had. I'm wondering if the other reviewer just got a machine that didn't work too well. Or, maybe he just likes it from boiled water. Whatever the case, if you're used to drinking coffee made from regular drip machines, this one is fine.



I've had this coffeemaker for at least two months now, and I literally use it 5 to 10 times per day. I keep expecting it to break, because it's definitely not made expensively, but it keeps going. I think it's a great choice for someone like me or someone in an office.



This comes with a durable reusable gold-colored metal filter.

I have had this product in my office at work for a little over a month, and so far, so good. The ceramic cup is very easy to clean, and the size of the machine itself is just perfect for my desk. The only "issue" I have with it is that it gets just a little noisy near end of the brewing. Otherwise, its perfect.

I bought this to save counter space and make just one cup of coffee at a time. It works well and the coffee is hot enough. To make sure after reading some reviews about the temperature, I rinsed the mug in hot water first to make it warm before using. The only problem which is slight is the small amount of splashing when it's dripping into the mug. It really should have a cover with a small hole in it to prevent this. I take a narrow piece of aluminum foil and just scrunch it around the upper part of the mug and no spills. I recommend this product as a good product for the price.

There is a trick to making hot coffee with this appliance. Leave the spout swung to the side (not over the filter) until the water is boiling hot, then carefully swing it over the filter. You will have boiling hot coffee!

Works fine, coffee is hot and good, no problem there. What I can't believe is that it does NOT shut off automatically when done brewing. I'm not sure what would happen if someone forgot about it for a few minutes. This is NOT SAFE at all and I will have to buy another unit, basically useless.

I bought this item because I was always brewing more coffee than I needed and wasting. This is an excellent single cup space saving coffee maker. Mine came with a mug AND measuring scoop, as well as reusable filter so it was ready to use when I pulled it out of the box. Wish I had known about these when I was traveling! GREAT PRODUCT !!

It is a one cup coffee maker and does just that. Nothing fancy. It is rather slow and splashes a little if you use a regular size coffe cup. I do think that it makes quite a good cup of joe though. Probably about the best bang for your buck if this is all you need. I am satisfied with it.

It worked fine for the first few months, then the brew began to leak a little from the bottom while brewing. Today the leak became a flood. At the rate of $5 a month to use this coffee maker, it is NOT a bargain. - Single Cup Coffee Maker - Personal Coffee Maker - Coffee Maker - One Cup - Reusable Filter - Coffee
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Personal Coffee Maker - single cup coffee maker, personal coffee maker

Keurig Coffee Maker - k-cups, reusable filter

Click here for more information Something that is important to be aware of is that you can't use just any ground coffee in this filter. I have a Kuerig Elite and bought a standard bag of Dunkin Donuts ground coffee and when I first tried to use it, the water going into the cup overflowed and came out of the overflow which essentially watered down the coffee considerably and had water pouring everywhere. I tried it again, this time with a little less coffee in the filter and had the same result. I contacted Kuerig customer support and they replied and told me to make sure I didn't pack the coffee, the filter was clean, and that the grind wasn't too fine because a fine grind would clog the filter. I cleaned the filter very carefully and even stirred the coffee grounds with the end of the spoon to ensure that it wasn't packed. The results were the same. I haven't tried using a different brand but I will. As for now though, the idea is great but I'm not convinced that there isn't a possible design flaw with this. Once I try a different ground coffee I will update further.

If you have a Keurig brewer then you need these extra filter baskets to please the other coffee drinkers in the morning. One works, but you don't need to constantly wash them before brewing another cup. While there are many flavors and types of K-cups, there is none better than using your own grind.

Each one lasts us about 6 months. There's 2 of us and we drink 2-3 cups of coffee each day. That's over 1000 cups of coffee per filter.

Clean filter out right after you make coffee to make them last longer. Don't bang on the filter too hard to clean out the coffee or it can come apart. I rinse it in the sink coffee grinds and all.

We buy a giant tub of folgers and that costs $6.99. It takes us about a month to drink it. We save SO much money this way and the coffee (even Folgers) tastes great! Save your grounds and add them to your potted plants or compost, plants and flowers love them!

I used to drink coffee only on Sundays. Bought Starbucks maybe twice a year. Now, thanks to Keurig and K-cups, I am absolutely (and happily) addicted, drinking 3 cups a day, the stronger the better. However the My K-Cups are useless. I bought a burr coffee grinder. I tried coarse grinds, I tried fine grinds, I tried filling them halfway, I tried filling them all the way. The coffee was always terribly weak. I even emptied a K-cup and put the coffee in it into the My K-Cup. Still lousy coffee. I called Keurig and their solution was to send me two new My K-Cup filters. The new ones were no better than the old ones. Then I bought on Amazon the EZ Cup with the EZ cup filters. These work and work very well. Keurig - admit that your My K-Cups are a total and abject failure and buy the company that makes the EZ Cup and EZ Cup filters. Your customers deserve better than the My K-Cup.

The only reason why I rated it 4 instead of 5, is b/c the reusable k-cup doesnt make as good of a cup of coffee as the k-cups. This isn't because of the brand of coffee I'm using, it's just not nearly as easy to do and a few grounds end up getting in the coffee.

There isn't a K-Cup coffee pod out there that can beat grinding your own freshest coffee beans and the average cup of making your own coffee is at a fraction of the costs.



There was a person here who posted the perfect permanent method and that is to buy the replacement metal mesh filters from Keurig.com which are $9.99 for a pair.



We bought two pair for a total of 5; one came with the coffee maker. We trimmed the edge of a few of the K-Cups we got with our coffee maker for safe keeping. Trimming the edge will allow the metal mesh filter to fit perfect in the "pod" holster and screw the gray lid snugly.



We use a Food Saver and Mason Jars to store our coffee. We prepare the filters just prior to loading them each and every day and each and every evening, Cleanup is incredibly easy and reloading them equally easy.



The average cost of Paul Newman's brand at Wal-Mart is $9.88 or $10.77 counting 9 percent tax. That's 60 cents per cup which is simply ridiculous. I don't deny you can find it cheaper elsewhere; my problem is I've yet to enjoy a fresh cup of coffee via these little devils.



We bought 6 K-Caps and they have their place too but we found the coffee weaker due to having to use less coffee than the metal mesh but come in handy in a pinch.



We've done our fair share of experimenting and both K-Caps and the reusable filters and give the nod to the metal filters.



For those of you who grind your own beans; we found fine-medium is the same as what are in the pre-made K-cups.



To those of you who had some really wonderful tips; thank you very, very much!

I'm not really sure why so many people are unhappy with these replacement filters. We bought our machine a year ago and, yes, we have had to change the filter a few times because after so many cups of coffee, it becomes clogged and unable to be cleaned, but it's a much cheaper way to go than K-Cups and it makes a great cup of coffee. I have had no problem with any of the different brands or types of coffee I use. Yes, if you fill it too full, you might get a few grounds in your coffee, but just don't overfill it! Not a problem at all and now that I know I can get 2 replacement filter baskets for the price of one unit, I'm thrilled. - K-cups - Reusable Filter - Keurig Coffee Maker - My K-cup - Single Cup - Coffee Maker
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Keurig Coffee Maker - k-cups, reusable filter

Cappuccino - bialetti, latte

Click here for more information Makes better espresso then most of the espresso shops here in Java Town, Seattle. It also costs about ten times less then an espresso machine that probably won't make as good coffee, and eventualy will need repair. Bialetti has been making these things since the dawn of time and have it down to a science.



A few tips:

1. Grind coffee between medium and fine.

2. Don't pack coffee into basket like you do in an espresso machine.

3. Heat between medium and high heat.

4. Be careful not to have the handle be over the burner of flame.

5. NEVER WASH THE POT WITH DETERGENT. JUST RINSE AND DRY. The more you use the pot,the better the coffee becomes.

6. Before using for the first time season the pot. Make a pot of weak coffee and discard it.

When visiting my friend in Italy, she served us the most amazing espresso -- made in a Moka Bialetti (which is, she tells me, what virtually ALL Italians use at home!) So of course I had to buy one when I got back to the USA. I agree w/all the previous reviews -- it is simple, inexpensive, even fun to use! The instructions that came with it are nearly indecipherable so here's my summary (of course you'll want to rinse all the parts in plain water, no soap, before use):

1. Fill the bottom part w/water up to (not over) the steam valve

2. Put the middle section in, fill w/ground espresso (it is finer than regular American coffee). But don't overfill or pack down.

3. Carefully screw on the top, and place directly on a gas stove, use the smallest burner on medium heat - be sure there is NO flame coming up around the moka (that would melt off the handle). I'm sure you can use electric, too, I just haven't tried it.

4. You'll hear the coffee percolating in about 5 min or so -- when lots of steam comes out, you'll know it's ready. Feel free to carefully pop the lid to peek while it's percolating -- it's kind of cool, actually.

5. Enjoy! If you're going to make a second pot, be aware the pot will be VERY hot, so give it a time to cool before touching the metal.

6. Cleanup: When it cools, take it completely apart and RINSE all parts, making sure they are all DRY before putting the moka away. Do NOT use soap, and by all means, do NOT use a dishwasher!!!!!



Some other tips to keep in mind:

This is called a 3-cup pot, but: 3 Espresso "cups" = 2 tiny espresso cups full = less than ONE actual CUP of liquid. The whole pot makes MAYBE 6 ounces, really. Espresso is concentrated, meant to be savored and enjoyed in sips, not gulped out of a jumbo American mug. To me this is the symbolic difference b/t the European and the American lifestyle! For one or two people, the 3-cup pot is just right. For a crowd, or for die-hard caffiene junkies, you'll want a larger pot.

Because the espresso is so concentrated, it lends itself to many uses. Yes, lattes, as a previous reviewer mentioned. Cappuccinos as well, of course. You can even just add hot water to make a still-strong full sized American mug of coffee. I have been known to throw the hot espresso over a cup of ice for an instant iced coffee. If you like to make blended coffee drinks, this stuff will stand up to the ice cubes and not get too diluted.

The first pot you brew will NOT be good (I tossed the first one), the second slightly better, etc. The seasoning is necessary to get the best flavor. This morning, about my 7th time using it, my husband and I looked at each other and said, This is it! It finally tastes GREAT. I use the Lavazza brand, purchased from a local Italian market, but I know Illy is popular too, both in Italy and here.

Treat it with care, and this little guy will make you simple, excellent, inexpensive espresso coffee for many years to come.

I bought this espresso maker about a week ago at the suggestion of my cousin who lives in Italy. Also bought a milk frother from Ikea ($2.99), some Illy espresso (2 pack for $25) and vanilla-flavored syrup from Starbucks with pump ($7). I have been drinking the yummiest vanilla lattes every morning. Takes a couple of minutes to make and they are delicious. Why the heck was I spending so much money at Starbucks everyday for all those years?! (By the way, my Italian cousin says never to refrigerate the espresso coffee. Just keep it on the counter.)

I love this espresso maker. I use it every single day. It makes a perfect double espresso, so it's great for having a fresh macchiato in the morning with my breakfast. It's cheap, simple, easy to clean, and the only way to break it is to put it on the stove with no water in it. Don't do that. Really. :)

Visited Italy last summer and saw this pot on a few stoves, and used it every morning in the apartment I stayed at. I loved it there so immediately bought this upon my return, and it hasn't disappointed.



This little guy pays for itself within a week. That $4 latte you like having every morning? Make it at home. Some tips/thoughts/etc:



1) I only really fully clean this every other week or so. I quickly rinse it out before every use and make sure the threads are clean - if they get gunky, you'll notice some steam coming out during brewing.

2) I had used a grind from the coffee shops 'doser' (the thing they use to grind for espressos), but I like what I do at home a bit better -- it's just a hair more course than the doser. I use a Hario manual hand grinder, btw.

3) I place on medium/high heat. Works with electric or gas. Just make sure the burners aren't too wide for bottom of moka (I use the back, smaller burner).

4) It takes 4-5 minutes. When I see it bubbling, I pop my mug of milk in the microwave for a minute to heat the milk. When that's done, I whip it up into a slight foam using a small electric wand from IKEA ($2 or so).

5) After about 5 minutes, you'll hear the pot bubbling. If you've been watching it brew, you'll want to put the lid down before this point, as it will spew over your stove top.

6) add it to your milk. This makes about what is a double-shot here in the states.

7) last thing: stay away from pre-ground stuff from the grocery store. Either have your shop grind it or buy a grinder and do it at home. I have noticed a huge difference in taste.



I got this for a friend who had just received a $300 espresso machine. Guess which one he uses every morning. :) Yup, this one.



[NOTE: this is the review for the 3-cup version] - Bialetti - Latte - Stovetop Espresso Pots - Espresso - Coffee - Coffee Maker
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Cappuccino - bialetti, latte

1 Cup Coffee Maker - coffee, coffee maker

Click here for more information I did many hours of research into coffee makers before deciding on an Aeropress. I learned that several factors influence the coffee you end up with: the temperature of the water, the way the water mixes with the coffee, and how the coffee is extracted from the grounds. I found it difficult to find knowledgeable reviews of the various coffee machines, so I decided to take control of my coffee preparation. The aeropress allows you to control how hot the water is and how long you let it mix with the coffee.



The whole coffee making process is explained in the products instructions.



1. Insert a filter and some coffee into the unit. A coffee scoop and some filters are included with the aeropress, they recommend 1 scoop of coffee per cup.



2. Heat the right amount of water. Markers are printed on the side of the Aeropress to show the recommended amount of water for between 1 and 4 (the maximum) espresso shots. The manufacturers recommend water between 75 and 80 degrees. I don't know if this is correct, because I don't have a thermometer in the kitchen, and in any case, I'm not going to stick a thermometer in water to get it to a precise temperature. I boil water in my kettle and let the water sit for a set time before use. Alternatively, you could microwave the water for a set time. A bit of experimentation and you'll find how hot you like the water. I agree with Aeropress that boiling hot water extracts unpleasant flavors.



3. Mix the water with the grounds. The grounds are immersed in water, much like in a french press, but the manufacturers recommend letting the water sit for no more than about 10 seconds. I find that this is about right, but you can experiment and decide for yourself.



4. Insert the plunger and push the water out of the Aeropress. You press the plunger down so that it extracts the water from the grounds over about 20 seconds. The Aeropress needs to be on a strong and stable container, such as a mug, for this part of the process. Pressing the plunger requires a bit of strength if you are making more than one espresso shot. You'll need to press down for about 20 seconds.



5. Drink up, or dilute the espresso shot(s) for American coffee or mix them for cappuccino, or whatever.



I am very happy with the Aeropress. It makes great tasting coffee. It's easy to clean and inexpensive. In my opinion the aeropress is superior to french press or manual drip percolator coffee. It is not as convenient as a machine but I'm willing to spend the effort for good coffee.

***Update 3/15/11*** It's been over 4 years, and I still use this coffee maker every single day. I'm STILL on my first packet of filters, and still in love. I rinse the filters out and reuse once or twice per filter. And no, I haven't flipped it over. Yet.



As a certified coffee snob, I thought it didn't get better than french press. Fugetaboudit! The Aeropress renders a sweet, flavorful, impeccable Americano every time that will change your expectations forever. I have a drip coffee machine, a french press and a Krups espresso maker, and they are all officially retired thanks to the Aeropress.



I can't say enough about the results, but note that the Aerobie is more time-consuming to use than either french press or drip coffee makers, more comparable to espresso makers. Well worth it, mind you, but NOT as quick and painless as the manufacturer would have you believe. This product makes espresso by forcing air through the grounds using a syringe-type plunger. You must put in a filter, add the grounds, measure out the precise amount of water, add water and stir. You then have to place the Aeropress on top of a cup to use it, exert a pretty good amount of force, and then, if you're making two or more cups, divy the espresso up into other containers and add water or milk, if you want. So far I haven't done it, but I think it would be really easy to push too hard, flip over the cup, and spray espresso everywhere.



Still, greatest coffee ever, no competition. If you want the best, you gotta put in the time.

Wow! Best cup of coffee I ever had. And so simple! The design is brilliant. I'm impressed with the quality of construction, ease of use, ease of cleanup, and the great taste. This is the end of all other methods of coffee production.



I fill the plunger to the appropriate mark with hot tap water and place it in the microwave for 20 seconds (the experimentally determined time to reach 175). While the water is heating I place a filter sheet in the cap, place it on the chamber, and add 1 scoop of coffee. With the chamber on top of my cup, I add the now hot water, stir, and press. Cleanup consists of ejecting the used coffee into the composting pot and rinsing the end of the plunger. Then I'm ready to enjoy a perfect cup of coffee.

As others have said, the Aeropress makes great coffee and espresso. The Aeropress lacks the style and design of the $3,000 automated Italian machines. In fact, it looks a lot like a bong or a chemistry set. It operates like no other coffee maker you have seen before. Who would have thought someone could come up with a new way to make coffee?



The Aeropress is a completely manual system, which explains its low price. You espress the coffee manually by pressing on a plastic pipe that sends hot water through the coffee grounds, sort of like an upside down french press. It is very easy to use, and could easily be packed for travel.



Pros:

Cheap

Great coffee

Great espresso

Takes up very little space

No electronics to break

No high-dollar bean mill required. A regular blade grinder will do.

Right water temperature produces coffee with very low acid.



Cons:

You will go through a lot of beans because the coffee tastes so good

It takes practice to make crema

You need an instant-read thermometer to heat the water to 165 to 175 degrees

You will have to heat and steam milk manually if you like milk-based espresso drinks

No cool-looking Gaggia or Saeco espresso machine sitting in your kitchen

No excuse to upgrade your blade grinder to a mill - Coffee - Coffee Maker - Coffee Press - Espresso - Americano - Best
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1 Cup Coffee Maker - coffee, coffee maker

Single Serve Coffee Maker - 1 cup coffee maker, personal coffee maker

Click here for more information I've seen other reviewers complaints about this coffee maker, but I've used it for years & haven't had any problems with it. It's easy to use, compact, & works quickly. My wife & I both drink coffee, but not the same type, so it doesn't make sense for us to use a 2+ cup coffee maker since we'd have to make two separate portions anyway. So we each have our own B&D, & use them simultaneously. The coffee comes out fine; I use Starbucks Verona (which my wife says tastes like burnt coffee from the bottom of a pot anyway), & she uses a decaff chocolate blueberry flavor. The only difficulty (& it's not a fault of the B&D) is that the #1 filters are hard to find, even on the internet, but this coffee maker comes with a permanent, dishwasher safe filter, so you really don't have to use paper filters if you don't want to. I recommend this product for anyone who wants a quick cup of coffee & doesn't need more than one cup at a time.

I have used this coffee maker for over 5 years now and it's still running great. In fact, I just bought another one to take on trips & bring to the office.

Pros:

1. I don't have to make more than one serving at a time for myself and it brews straight into the mug.

2. It comes with a permanent filter but you can also use cone filters size #1 which I can buy nearby. Less messy to clean up using the paper filter. I just toss the grounds in the trash.

3. Quick to brew; done in < 5 minutes



Cons:

1. Hard to find a replacement mug of the right size or permanent filter

2. No warming element

3. The grounds do soak up some water and less comes out that you put in but it also happens with larger coffee pots (which being larger, you don't notice as much because you aren't MEASURING with the same cup you drink from).



Hints:

1. To stop grounds from floating into the water resevoir, use drip or cone ground coffee. Avoid very finely ground (i.e., espresso)

2. To avoid overflows, leave the cover off while brewing.

I am the only coffee drinker in my family and had a Brew N' Go for over 6 years when the mesh filter began to separate from the plastic. Unfortunately, Black and Decker changed the design and I was unable to find a replacement filter from them or anybody. I looked for a replacement single cup coffee maker in several retailers and finally found one on Amazon at a very reasonable price.



However, newer is not better. The new model filter only has screen on the 2 sides and is mostly plastic, where as the original was mostly a fine screen with plastic reinforcement.



From the very first cup it was a disappointment, as coffee grounds overflowed into my cup and throughout the coffee maker. This new design filter does not let the water pass through quick enough when you use a fine or moderate grinds of coffee. With larger grinds the coffee comes out weak, or if you try to make it stronger by adding more grinds you can have the same overflow problem! For months I would put coarse coffee in the bottom and the better fine ground coffee on top and crossed my fingers.



Then the other day I was in CVS and saw a single cup coffee maker for 15 bucks. It has a mostly screen filter like the original B&D and works great! The next day I was in Big Lots and found another one that appears to use a #2 filter (so replacements can be easy in the future) and it works great for 10 bucks!!



The Black and Decker is going in the trash!! Save yourself the hassle and get something else and make sure it has a lot of screen area in the filter.

5 weeks after I purchased this coffee maker it quit working. I contacted Black and Decker about it and they sent me to another company (Applica Consumer Products) that actually manufacture and produce the coffee maker for them. This company responded only after a long while and simply said, "We're sorry, we have not experienced any problems with this coffee maker so we are unable to refund your money." Another comment from Applica worth noting was: "Applica Consumer Products does not have a money back guarantee policy." What this means is, if you are unhappy for any reason with your Black and Decker/Applica Consumer Product, well too bad! You bought it and if you don't like or it quits working, you're SOL! If you are in the market for a personal-type coffee maker, such as the Black and Decker Brew N Go, I would suggest you avoid this one like the plaque!

Pros:

- Good tasting hot coffee.

- Includes permanent filter.



Cons:

- Coffee mug is plastic, which means hot coffee rapidly turns warm.

- Besides the removable lid, the coffee mug consists of two pieces, a black container and a brown outer housing. Water tends to seep between the container and housing after a few hand-washings or one run through the dishwasher. You must separate the two pieces to remove the water. That's when you'll discover the seal between the two is simply a thin rubber band.

- Coffee grounds ALWAYS attach to the overhead where the hot water enters the grounds chamber, which means a little extra effort cleaning the unit between brews.

- Coffee grounds frequently enter the water reservoir and seep between the permanent filter and the filter housing, which means even more effort cleaning the unit between brews. Recommend buying number 2 cone filters; less mess.



Note: Black & Decker has released an improved model, the DCM-18S. It has a stainless outer shell and they have solved the issue of the housing coming apart from the inner shell. I give it 5 stars! - 1 Cup Coffee Maker - Personal Coffee Maker - Brew N Go - Coffee Maker - Travel Coffee Maker - Great Value
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Single Serve Coffee Maker - 1 cup coffee maker, personal coffee maker

Coffee Maker - coffee maker, coffee press

Click here for more information We recently bought the GSI Personal Coffee Press along with the GSI manual grinder for use in making small daily coffee batches at home and when we camp. They work very well in both situations, which is pretty remarkable.



The Personal Java Press combines a reasonably durable and effective 2-3 cup plastic coffee press with a 1-1.5 cup insulated mug that nests inside for transport. The nesting feature makes this a fairly space efficient and very weight efficient coffee maker and mug combination for 1-2 people to use while camping. The capacity is also perfect for the individual or couple who needs fresh coffee every morning and doesn't like reheating old coffee from a larger automatic mater. (We have a 12 cup automatic drip, that really doesn't make good coffee in quantities smaller than 4 cups.) It works well using ground coffee, but you do get a small amount of sediment. You do get less sediment using a courser grind, and the Press works very well with the GSI hand grinder when you set it at a medium peculator grind (only a little courser than high volume store brands but a lot courser than a fresh ground drip or espresso grind).



The cylindrical shape and lack of a protruding spout means that some of the coffee you pour soaks into foam insulation, so it is best to do the pouring over a spill friendly counter. The cylindrical cup is also very difficult to drink from without dripping because it has no lip. The lid for both the cup and the press work well for keeping heat in without taking up space, but are a compromise between preventing spills and allowing access for pouring or sipping. Basically I would suggest the cup is very useful for camping, and just too messy and awkward for use as a regular mug at home or as a travel mug separate from the press.



If I were rating this for value as a coffee system for car camping for a couple, I would give this a 5-plus. As either a 1 or 2 person home coffee system or a backpacking system it rates a 4. Overall, as a compliment to a larger coffee maker (for company) I would rate it a 4.5.

I bought this product for its price, my previous experience with GSI products and because there are two articles in one, the press and the mug. The last one can be placed within the first one to save space, and well, when you camp one important point is to save space, no matter if you are backpacking or doing car camping. In general other reviewers have already said many things about this product, but overall I have had no problems when I serve the coffee to one cup or to the included mug. I pour the coffee mug in a "normal" way, but carefully as you normally would do it with any other french press, no hurries and have not had problems spilling coffee when serving the coffee in my mug.



Another important feature is that in my experience, there's no a 100% efficient java presses (french presses) to prevent sediments from coffee beans in to the bottom of the mug. There are some better than others, but no 100% effective when filtering the liquid. This coffee is one of the best I've ever had. The filter (mesh) fits very well into the container and the pores or holes of the mesh are small enough to make a decent job with the sediments.



The coffee stays hot for a while. I guess this is due in part to the lid of the mug and the neoprene cover, but if you want to have a hot coffee for over several hours this is not the product you need, get a thermo with the java press instead.



However, something I did not like is that the lid that comes with the mug is not very comfortable to drink from it, at least not for me. It could be better if GSI make a lid similar to those regular lids or covers provided in the cups that you get in a regular coffee shop. However, so far at this time the liquid has not drained out of my lips and my clothes have remained without coffee stains.



I gave 4 stars because this lid issue. But in general is undoubtedly one of the best products that you can get, whether for home or camping, so it is highly recommended.



By the way, measures of the coffee press are: 5.5" (h) x 4" (diameter)

If you enjoy your multi day backpacking/hiking and you must have your coffee, this is an awesome product. Now Im not a super ultra lightweight backpacker enthusiest, but I try to keep the weight down as much as possible. There are more weight effecient ways to make coffee but this is super conveinent and works great. I always bring it with me on my multi day hikes and put it in my pack- its a good buy-

As long as you have the means of heating some water, this is a great coffee maker for camping, especially if you are making coffee for just one person (although I'd say it makes enough for two, but only comes with one cup). I like the way the coffee cup nests inside the maker to save space and it's very quick and easy to assemble. My only complaint is that it seemed to dribble a little bit each time I poured the coffee from the maker into the cup. May have been user error...perhaps I didn't have the lid on quite right. Over all, I definitely recommend this. - Coffee Maker - Coffee Press - Gsi - Light Weight - Travel Press
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Coffee Maker - coffee maker, coffee press

Espresso Maker - cappuccino, espresso

Click here for more information This Espresso machine is great for people who love good espresso but can't afford fancy machines. In fact, I think I like this machine better than the fancy machine my mom has. It's super easy to use and quick- I make a latte every morning before work. And in fact you CAN froth milk with the wand- it takes a little finagling but the trick is to rotate the mug around the wand. It may take a couple of tries to get a routine down but by the third time you'll get the hang of it. And may I suggest- if you're making lattes, make only one at a time to get good foam. Enjoy!

I'm surprised at some of the negative reviews of this product. Perhaps the reviewers ended up with the occasional lemons. I've purchased two of these...one I bought for myself, and the other as a gift, and they've worked beautifully. The milk steamer is very effective (but as noted, the wand is a bit short, which would be my only complaint). It would be nice to have a separate bypass switch between brewing and steaming modes, but the lack of one is common in machines in this price range. Overall I'm very happy with mine and have had no problems at all. At the current price, I'd highly recommend purchasing one. If you want more features and better construction, then spend another $100 or more for a steam pump model, but for fast and easy coffee drinks from a functional, affordable machine, this is hard to beat.



January 2010 update: It's been over four years since purchasing two of these coffee makers, and both are still going strong. The one I purchased for myself is used almost daily, and still works perfectly.

I am far from a connoisseur of coffee, but I really like this machine. Unlike the Krupps that is similar priced (FND111 Allegro), it is make much more sturdy. I played with both in a feature to feature comparison and the DeLonghi is MUCH better made.



Best : Quality, quick espresso. Easy to clean, easy to use. Very attractive in the kitchen. Pretty darn quick. Great price for the quality.



OK : Frother is very short, so you need a short, stout cup to froth with. It is good for Cappuccino, but not really powerful enough for steaming a Latte's worth of milk. To get some extra steam, run it through an extra cycle just for steam.



Bad : Not really any for the price.



Overall, I am very, very pleased. I got it for only $39.99 here on Amazon and I think that is one heck of a good deal.

All the reviews I read before I purchased this item said that the coffee maker was purchased to make lattes. Several reviews mentioned the steaming wand being difficult to use, but that they managed in the long run. Well, I feel that the wand is impossible to use as there is no way to chose between the espresso selection and the steaming selection. If you follow the instruction regarding the coffee and the water portions, you have great espresso, but if you want to steam milk, you need to put in more water, but since there is no way to select steam, you have to try and steam the milk while the espresso is brewing and you end up having watered down espresso or steam milk that is not hot enough. I have resorted to just heating my milk up in the microwave and have more of an espresso with hot milk as opposed to a latte. If you want to make lattes, I recommend looking for another espresso maker.

I believe this is my fifth espresso and cappuccino maker (I have worn out the previous four) and this DeLonghi EC5 is by far the best one. It is easy to use, easy to clean, takes up little counter space, while producing the best espressos,cappuccinos and mochas I've made using a Steam-Driven home brewing system. I don't even bother using the glass carafe anymore except to measure and pour the correct amount of water into the machine. I put my favorite cup directly under the filter when I make an expresso, latte or mocha for myself and if a friend joins me I put two cups under the double spouts of the extended filter, which sits lower, allowing me to make two at the same time while foaming the milk. It saves time, makes less mess, and warms the cups at the same time. Perfect for those cold winter mornings allowing me more time to relax and enjoy a hot beverage while visiting with a friend. Less mess, less fuss, less time, and my friends and I believe it produces the best beverage yet while allowing us more time to visit.

After working at Starbucks and getting free espresso drinks for 4 years, I needed an espresso machine to support my habit. This one was the most affordable with the best reviews, and so we went with it. I am so impressed! First of all, don't follow the directions on steaming the milk, instead of moving the pitcher up and down just keep the tip of the steam wand right below the surface of the milk. It should just barely look like the surface is stirring. If you have too many bubbles pull the wand out slightly at an angle. That will make foam instead of bubbles. The quality of the espresso shot isn't the best, so if you drink straight espresso I wouldn't recommend this. But for lattes, cappuccinos, or flavored americanos, it's so worth it. The money we're saving is great. (Even for a pro barista like me it took a few tries to get it right to make two at a time, so don't get discouraged at first!) - Cappuccino - Espresso - Espresso Maker - Latte - Coffee - Coffee Maker
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Espresso Maker - cappuccino, espresso

Espresso Machines - espresso maker, cappuccino

Click here for more information I bought this at Targét for $29, and it is freaking awesome. To the two reviewers above... if you actually read the manual you would know that the cord underneath the base can be unraveled to the desired length. This is to eliminate excess cord on your countertop.



Anyway, I discovered I was spending almost $200 at Starbucks... a near crack habit. My previous espresso machine broke over the summer--a $300 Gaggia. Prior to the gaggia I had a krups.



So I plunked down a few bucks for this one knowing I was taking a wee gamble. Usually you get what you pay for.



Let me tell ya, this little machine is great. First, it is super super quiet. My previous machines were deafening especially when frothing. Secondly, it takes up little space. Third, it's fairly nice looking and matches our coffee maker. And of course last, it makes great lattés.



So, don't waste your money on some huge hulking espresso machine that will only last a few years. This one does the job and won't cause ear trauma.

I've had this machine for over a year. I have tried other machines, even a pump. It makes good cappuccinos/lattes when the milk is steamed properly at the right temperature. If your only into espresso shots, I would go with a pump.



PROS

-Inexpensive

-Frother is strong, plastic tip is removable

-Quiet (then a pump machine)

-Small



CONS

-Supplied tamper is just a slightly flattened end of the coffee scooper.

-No frothing pitcher.

-Multiple shots requires de-pressuring the machine.



NOTES

-It is important to have a correct tamp and grind. A weak tamp or a course grind will cause the machine to brew too fast and cause the steamer to become weak because not enough pressure built up, resulting in weak taste. Too hard of a tamp or too fine of a grind will cause the brew to be too slow and build up too much heat, resulting in bitter taste.



-I rarely make a "4cup" with this machine, but when I do, it is somewhat tricky. The machine has a hard time pushing thru a 4 cup filled basket. In this situation, it most often then not brews too slow and too hot and results bitter. You have to compensate by tamping very lightly.



-It is very possible to create thick dense micro foam as well as light fluffy airy foam. It all depends where and how you place the frothing tip near the surface of the milk. Using a thermometer is very useful too. Overheating the milk will make it lose its sweetness.



-Descale it if it becomes slow. I use Durgol.



-Sometimes excess water builds the tank. I believe this causes the machine to become less efficient. Run an empty cycle to remove the water every once in a while.



EDIT

I've had this machine for almost 3 years and the frothing wand tip broke on me while using a wrench to disassemble and clean the wand tip. You're supposed to use the supplied plastic wrench but I used a metal wrench and it tore the tip right off. It is a 7 dollar part on amazon, but I decided to just buy a new one since these are so cheap and it was 3 years old. I still think for what this is, it is a good machine. The new version of this model has a different shaped wand.



EDIT #2

Still using this machine. Want to note that I have a routine I do with the machine that ensures the brew process is the same everytime.



If you use the machine from a cold start (like hasn't been used in a few hours) what I do is brew just water, no coffee, no filterbasket. and brew out all the water into the cup I will be using. This will warm the cup. and since not so much pressure will build up you will be able to open the top 'slowly' with out it exploding with pressure (warning: this is only on a cold start). After this... then proceed as normal. This will warm up the machine so when it does the brew process it will have an easier time and brew better and efficiently. This method also clears out the problem of water 'building' up in machine causing inefficient brew times.

Love this product. I read all the other reviews before buying, so I knew it didn't come with a steaming pitcher and ordered one to go with it. However, I didn't realize that it didn't come with an espresso tamper either. I would have ordered one had I known, now I have to wait for the one I ordered to come in and hope it fits this machine. Would have given it 5 stars, but as a former barista, I know that to make a good latte I need a steaming pitcher and a tamper. So for an espresso machine not to come with these items is like getting a pair of sneakers with no laces. I have had no problem with leaking, and as long as the user READS THE INSTRUCTIONS, they shouldn't have any problems either. For $40, I've already gotten my money's worth in the last week. And anyone interested in buying, I would say "GO FOR IT!!!" but order a steaming pitcher and espresso tamper along with it.



Note: P.S. Get a 49mm espresso tamper to go with it. Doesn't fit "perfectly" but its as close as I could find that wouldn't be too big. - Espresso Maker - Cappuccino - Espresso - Latte - Espresso Machines - Coffee Maker
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Espresso Machines - espresso maker, cappuccino