Brim 50019 19 Bar Espresso Machine: A Feature-Packed Option for At-Home Baristas

With the rise of artisanal coffee shops on every corner, more and more people are looking to recreate the café experience at home. Enter the Brim 50019 19 Bar Espresso Machine – a feature-packed option made to satisfy espresso enthusiasts on a budget. But does this stainless steel beauty live up to the hype? I put it through its paces to find out.

Overview

Espresso, a beloved beverage with a rich history and vibrant culture, has its roots in Italy. Invented in the early 20th century, espresso quickly became a staple in Italian cafes, renowned for its strong flavor and quick brewing time. The invention of the espresso machine revolutionized coffee consumption, allowing for the extraction of concentrated coffee with a thick layer of crema using high pressure to force hot water through finely-ground coffee.

Early espresso machines were primarily for commercial use, large in size and complex to operate. However, with advancements in technology and the growing demand for home espresso machines, manufacturers began developing smaller, more user-friendly models, enabling espresso enthusiasts to enjoy this rich coffee at home.

Today, espresso is enjoyed worldwide and forms the base for a variety of popular coffee drinks, such as lattes, cappuccinos, and Americanos. With the rise of artisanal coffee shops on every corner, more and more people are looking to recreate the café experience at home. Enter the Brim 50019 19 Bar Espresso Machine – a feature-packed option made to satisfy espresso enthusiasts on a budget. But does this stainless steel beauty live up to the hype? I put the Brim 50019 19 Bar Espresso Machine through its paces to find out.

Key Features:

• 19 bar pressure for authentic espresso
• Fast heating thermal coil system
• 360° swivel steam wand for microfoam milk
• Programmable timers for single and double shots
• Hot water dispenser for Americanos
• Removable water tank and drip tray
• Dual boiler system for simultaneous brewing and steaming

Design

The Brim 50019 19 Bar Espresso Machine has an elegant stainless steel exterior that looks sharp on the countertop. Its classic Italian design cues and commercial-style portafilter exude authentic espresso excellence. Measuring 11.22”D x 10.74”W x 13.14”H and weighing 17.41 pounds, the machine is compact enough to fit under most kitchen cabinets. While mostly metal, some plastic components detract from the premium feel. Packaging is minimal yet protects the machine well in transit.

Ease of Use

Thanks to its rapid heating system, the Brim 50019 19 Bar Espresso Machine can start brewing espresso in just 2-3 minutes. The 71-ounce (2.1L) removable water tank is easy to fill and monitor. Separate buttons for single, double, and manual shots simplify pulling consistent pours once dialed in. The swivel steam wand makes it easy to texture milk into microfoam with some practice. The learning curve is reasonable for an intermediate home barista, while total beginners may need to watch tutorial videos to master techniques.

Coffee Quality

The Brim 50019 19 Bar Espresso Machine is capable of producing high-quality espresso with rich crema, thanks to its sufficient brewing pressure, temperature stability, and pre-infusion function. However, the quality of the espresso also depends heavily on the coffee beans used and their grind size.

Freshly roasted, high-quality coffee beans are essential for a flavorful espresso. The grind size should be adjusted based on the type of filter basket used. For pressurized baskets, a medium-fine grind is recommended, while non-pressurized baskets require a finer grind. Experimenting with different grind sizes and coffee beans will help you discover your preferred flavor profile.

The Brim 50019 allows for adjustable shot volumes, giving you control over the strength and size of your espresso. This flexibility allows you to tailor your espresso to your personal taste.

Brewing Technology

The Brim 50019 19 Bar Espresso Machine is a pump-driven, semi-automatic machine that utilizes a 19-bar pressure pump to force hot water through finely-ground coffee. This high pressure is crucial for extracting the full spectrum of flavor and aroma compounds from the coffee, resulting in a rich, concentrated espresso shot topped with a layer of crema.
The 19-bar pressure also ensures optimal extraction time, preventing over-extraction and bitterness. The crema, a layer of emulsified oils formed during extraction, is a key indicator of espresso quality, signifying the freshness of the beans and the correctness of the extraction process.

The machine’s thermocoil heating system rapidly heats the water to the ideal brewing temperature, typically between 190°F and 195°F (88°C and 91°C). This precise temperature control is essential for extracting the delicate flavors and aromas of the coffee without burning the grounds.

A pre-infusion function gently wets the coffee grounds before the full pressure is applied. This pre-infusion helps to evenly distribute the water and prepare the coffee for extraction, resulting in a more consistent and flavorful shot.

The 360° swivel steam wand allows for manual milk frothing, giving you complete control over the texture and temperature of the milk. This is essential for creating a variety of espresso-based drinks, such as lattes and cappuccinos. To froth milk, position the steam wand tip just below the surface of the milk and slowly open the steam. As the milk expands, gradually tilt the pitcher and raise the wand to create a whirlpool effect. For fine microfoam (ideal for lattes), keep the wand close to the surface of the milk. For thicker, denser foam (suitable for cappuccinos), submerge the wand slightly deeper into the milk.

Pressure & Temperature

The Brim 50019 19 Bar Espresso Machine features a 19-bar Italian pump that provides ample pressure for optimal espresso extraction. The ideal pressure range for espresso extraction is typically between 8 and 10 bars. The Brim 50019’s 19 bars of pressure exceeds this range, ensuring optimal extraction even when using fine grinds or tamping the coffee firmly. This higher pressure helps to release a wider range of flavors and aromatic compounds from the coffee, resulting in a richer and more flavorful espresso. The integrated pressure gauge allows you to monitor the extraction pressure in real time, ensuring you’re within the ideal range for a perfect shot.

The thermal coils achieve optimal brewing temperature quickly, typically between 190°F and 195°F (88°C and 91°C), and maintain consistency throughout the brewing process. This precise temperature control is essential for extracting the delicate flavors and aromas of the coffee without burning the grounds.

Milk Frothing

The swiveling steam wand can produce high-quality, velvety microfoam suitable for latte art. For best results, start with cold milk and submerge the steam wand tip just below the surface. Slowly raise the pitcher as the milk expands, creating a whirlpool effect. While the included 12oz pitcher is a good size for home use, the Brim 50019 can also accommodate larger pitchers, offering flexibility for crafting larger milk-based beverages. Temperature and froth consistency improve with practice. The wand could be longer for accommodating larger pitchers. There is no automated milk frothing feature.

Water Tank

The Brim 50019 19 Bar Espresso Machine features a 71-ounce (2.1L) removable water tank made of BPA-free plastic. It is easy to fill and monitor the water level. An integrated water filter would be a useful addition.

Additional Features

Programmable timers streamline brewing single and double shots. The hot water outlet makes Americanos simple. A cup warming tray would be a helpful addition. Pre-warming the cups helps to maintain the optimal temperature of the espresso, ensuring the best possible taste and flavor.

Noise & Safety

The Brim 50019 19 Bar Espresso Machine produces significant noise and vibration during brewing and steaming. Materials appear BPA-free, though the plastic trim downgrades the premium aesthetic. The short power cord lacks a ground plug for max safety. This could pose a potential risk of electrical shock, especially in damp environments. Users should exercise caution when operating the machine, ensuring their hands are dry and avoiding use near water sources.

Power & Durability

With a 1250W heating system, the Brim 50019 19 Bar Espresso Machine requires a standard 120V electrical outlet. So far, reliability looks questionable based on some reviews mentioning defects. For example, some users have reported pump failures or leaks after a few months of use. Time will tell whether the machine holds up beyond the 1-year warranty period.

Cleaning

The removable water tank, drip tray, portafilter, and frothing pitcher are all dishwasher safe for easy cleaning. Backflushing the group head is recommended weekly. Overall maintenance is straightforward for an espresso newbie.

Value Added Features

The Brim 50019 19 Bar Espresso Machine stands out with its dual boiler system, a feature rarely found in this price range. This allows for simultaneous brewing and steaming, saving you precious time in the morning rush. The programmable shot timers further enhance convenience, while the 360° swivel steam wand enables you to create cafe-quality microfoam. The pressure gauge, though its accuracy may vary, provides valuable feedback during extraction. Users can monitor the extraction pressure in real time using the pressure gauge, ensuring they are within the ideal range (typically 8-10 bars) for a perfect shot. If the pressure is too high or too low, users can adjust the coffee grind size or tamping pressure accordingly to achieve optimal extraction.

Brand & History

Brim, established in 1961, has a long history of producing coffee makers and accessories. The company is committed to providing coffee enthusiasts with high-quality, innovative products that enhance the coffee-making experience. The 50019 model, with its combination of features and affordability, reflects Brim’s dedication to making specialty coffee accessible to home baristas.

Use Cases:

The Brim 50019 19 Bar Espresso Machine is perfect for espresso lovers who want to bring café-quality drinks home. Its 19 bars of pressure unlock the full flavor potential from finely ground coffee beans. Programmable shot timers simplify dialing in single and double espresso pours. The steam wand froths milk to silky perfection for cappuccinos and lattes. Whether you crave a bold espresso, creamy latte, or classic Americano, the Brim 50019 19 Bar Espresso Machine has you covered. It’s an excellent fit for a home barista ready to level up their skills.

User Feedback Analysis:

Overall, customer reviews indicate the Brim 50019 19 Bar Espresso Machine punches above its weight class given the budget price point. Many home baristas agree this machine extracts rich, balanced espresso with ample crema when dialed in properly. Novices mention a manageable learning curve to pull consistently great shots. Steam wand performance exceeds expectations for the price, with practice enabling microfoam worthy of latte art.

On the downside, some reliability complaints emerge after months of use. A few users experienced pump failures or leaks likely stemming from manufacturing defects. Criticism also targets the lack of customer service and replacement part availability when issues arise. Since the machine is new to market, long term durability remains unproven though initial signs raise some concerns.

Beyond potential quality control problems, other drawbacks like loud operation, vibration, and a short power cord annoy but don’t seem deal breakers for most buyers. Users acknowledge you get what you pay for - this is not a commercial-grade machine, but foibles are forgivable given the accessible price point.

In summary, feedback indicates the Brim 50019 19 Bar Espresso Machine best suits home brewers wanting semi-automatic espresso fundamentals like a sturdy pump, steaming wand, and portafilter without paying a premium. Novices should be prepared for some trial and error dialling in their grind and technique. Based on reviews, the machine excels at performance essentials though fit and finish reflect the price. For those expectations, it earns high marks as an affordable gateway into quality homemade espresso. However, potential buyers should be aware of the reported durability concerns and lackluster customer service before making a purchase.

Pros:

• Excellent value for performance
• High performance-to-price ratio
• Fast, consistent heating 
• Quality espresso with good crema
• Makes milk microfoam for latte art 
• Programmable shot features
• Removable parts for easy cleaning

Cons:

• Build quality not as premium as price suggests
• Louder and more vibration than typical
• Reliability concerns noted in some reviews
• Customer service for repairs apparently lacking
• No integrated grinder

Value:

Given its performance capabilities, the Brim 50019 19 Bar Espresso Machine offers tremendous value for the price point under $300. Few competitors can match its blend of power, steaming, and ease of use in this budget-friendly range. The value proposition comes from its ability to make specialty coffee shop-level espresso drinks at home without breaking the bank.

The Verdict

For its price bracket, the Brim 50019 19 Bar Espresso Machine is one of the better values on the market in my opinion. The strong Italian pump, fast heating system, and swiveling steam wand deliver quality espresso and milk drinks. While not as refined as prosumer-grade machines, it punches above its weight given the sub-$300 price tag. Novices should expect some learning curve, but with practice, the Brim 50019 can absolutely keep up with one’s craft and produce café-caliber beverages to enjoy at home. However, potential buyers should be aware of the reported durability concerns and weigh them against the machine’s affordability and features before making a purchase. If you’re a coffee enthusiast on a budget looking to make quality espresso at home, the Brim 50019 19 Bar Espresso Machine is a compelling option. However, if you prioritize durability and longevity, or require more advanced coffee-making features, you may want to consider other, more expensive alternatives.

Specifications

• Pump Pressure: 19 bars
• Boiler Type: Dual boiler (thermocoil for brewing, separate thermoblock for steam)
• Reservoir Capacity: 71 ounces (2.1L)
• Steam Wand: 360° swivel
• Milk Frothing: Yes
• Grinder: No
• Water Filter: No
• Portafilter Size: 54mm
• Cup Warmer: No
• Dimensions: 11.22\u201d x 10.74\u201d x 13.14\u201d
• Weight: 17.41 lbs
• Materials: Stainless steel

The box includes the following accessories:
- Portafilter
- Single and double shot filter baskets
- Milk frothing pitcher
- Metal tamper
- Measuring scoop
- Filter cleaning tool

Brim 19 Bar Espresso Maker: Quick Start Guide

Important Safety Precautions:

• Never leave the machine unattended while in use.
• Do not immerse the machine, cord, or plug in water.
• Allow the machine to cool before cleaning or adding water.
• Unplug when not in use.

Before First Use:

1. Remove all packaging and assemble the drip tray.
2. Fill the water tank with cold, filtered water.
3. Run a cleaning cycle (see manual for detailed instructions).

Brewing Espresso:

1. Fill the portafilter with ground coffee and tamp firmly.
2. Lock the portafilter into the brew head.
3. Place your cup under the spouts.
4. Press the single or double shot button.

Steaming Milk:

1. Fill the milk pitcher with cold milk.
2. Press the “STEAM PREHEAT” button.
3. Insert the steam wand into the milk and turn the dial to “STEAM.”
4. Froth until the desired texture is achieved.

Cleaning:

1. Empty and rinse the portafilter and filter basket after each use.
2. Wipe the steam wand with a damp cloth.
3. Empty and clean the drip tray regularly.
4. Descale the machine every 6 months using a vinegar solution (see manual).

Troubleshooting:

Refer to the manual for solutions to common issues or contact Brim customer service.