Elevate Your Home Barista Game with the CASABREWS CM1699 20 Bar Espresso Machine

Published on July 16, 2023, 10:48 a.m.

Are you ready to take your home barista skills to the next level? Look no further than the CASABREWS CM1699 20 Bar Espresso Machine! This compact, semi-automatic espresso maker is designed to help you create delicious, cafe-quality espresso-based drinks from the comfort of your own home or office.

Overview

The CASABREWS CM1699 20 Bar Espresso Machine is a sleek and stylish addition to any kitchen or workplace. Its compact size makes it perfect for smaller spaces, while its powerful features ensure that you can enjoy a wide range of espresso-based beverages, including lattes, cappuccinos, and macchiatos.

Key Features

  • 20-Bar Professional Italian Pump: Ensures optimal pressure for rich, flavorful espresso extraction.
  • Adjustable Milk Frother: Creates creamy microfoam for lattes and cappuccinos.
  • 50oz Detachable Water Tank: Easy to refill and clean.
  • Compact Design: Perfect for small kitchens or offices.
  • Heated Cup Warmer: Keeps your coffee warm.

Design and Dimensions

The CASABREWS CM1699 boasts a sleek, modern design with a black and silver color scheme. Its compact size (11.26”D x 11.54”W x 8.43”H) makes it a perfect fit for smaller kitchens or office spaces without compromising on style or functionality.

Ease of Use and Maintenance

This semi-automatic espresso machine is designed with user-friendliness in mind, featuring a 50oz transparent water tank that’s easy to fill and clean, as well as a removable drip tray for hassle-free maintenance. Moreover, its 20-bar professional Italian pump guarantees consistent, high-quality extraction every time, providing you with the perfect espresso experience.

Brewing Types and Compatible Coffee Capsule Types (Compatibility with Coffee Capsules, etc.):

The CASABREWS CM1699 20 Bar Espresso Machine is designed for use with ground coffee and comes with a 51mm two-cup filter and a 51mm portafilter. It is not compatible with coffee capsules.

Suitable Coffee Types and Versatility

With its powerful 20-bar pump and adjustable milk frother steam wand, this espresso machine is capable of creating a wide range of espresso-based drinks, including lattes, cappuccinos, macchiatos, and more.

Coffee Quality (Coffee Taste, Color, etc.):

The CASABREWS CM1699 20 Bar Espresso Machine‘s 20-bar professional Italian pump ensures optimal pressure and extraction, resulting in rich, aromatic espresso with a luxurious crema.

20-Bar Professional Italian Pump

The CASABREWS CM1699 is equipped with a professional-grade Italian pump that delivers a consistent 20 bars of pressure. This ensures optimal extraction of coffee flavors, resulting in a rich, aromatic espresso with a thick crema layer. The high pressure also helps to create a more balanced and flavorful cup of coffee.

Pre-brewing Function

The CASABREWS CM1699 features a pre-brewing function that wets the coffee grounds before extraction. This helps to evenly distribute water and pre-infuse the coffee, resulting in a more flavorful and balanced espresso.

Double Shot Brewing

The CASABREWS CM1699 is equipped with a portafilter that can hold enough coffee grounds for two espresso shots. This allows you to brew two cups of espresso simultaneously, saving you time and effort.

Heated Cup Warmer

The top of the machine features a heated cup warmer that can hold up to two cups. This helps to keep your espresso cups warm, ensuring that your coffee stays hot for longer. Pre-warming your cups can also enhance the flavor and aroma of your espresso.

Cup Warmer

The top of the CASABREWS CM1699 features a heated cup warmer. This is a convenient feature that helps to keep your espresso cups warm, which is essential for maintaining the optimal temperature and flavor of your espresso.

Adjustable Milk Frother

The machine features an adjustable milk frother steam wand that allows you to froth milk to the perfect consistency for your favorite espresso-based drinks. Whether you prefer a creamy latte or a frothy cappuccino, the adjustable steam wand gives you complete control over the milk texture.

Integrated Grinder Details (Grinder Performance, Convenience):

The CASABREWS CM1699 20 Bar Espresso Machine does not have an integrated grinder. Users will need to use pre-ground coffee or a separate grinder.

50oz Detachable Water Tank

The CASABREWS CM1699 comes with a large, 50oz detachable water tank. This means you can brew multiple cups of coffee without having to refill the tank constantly. The detachable design also makes it easy to clean and refill the tank.

Removable Drip Tray

The CASABREWS CM1699 features a removable drip tray that collects any spills or drips from the brewing process. This makes it easy to keep your countertop clean and tidy. The drip tray can be easily removed and washed, ensuring a hygienic coffee-making environment.

Included Accessories

The CASABREWS CM1699 comes with a few essential accessories to help you get started with your home barista journey. These include a tamper for packing your coffee grounds, a measuring spoon for precise dosing, and a brewing filter for holding the coffee grounds during extraction.

Cleaning (Ease of Cleaning, Dishwasher Compatibility, etc.):

One customer review mentioned that the machine is easy to clean. The detachable water tank and removable drip tray contribute to its ease of maintenance. However, dishwasher compatibility is not specified.

Noise Level (Noise During Operation):

The provided information does not include details about the noise level during operation.

Safety (Material and Electrical Safety):
While the machine is made of stainless steel and plastic, no specific information is provided regarding electrical safety certifications or features.

Power or Battery Life (Cable Length, Auto Shut-Off):

The CASABREWS CM1699 20 Bar Espresso Machine has a wattage of 950 watts. Cable length and auto shut-off features are not specified in the provided information.

Maintenance Cycle and Operating Costs (Need for Additional Consumables like Filters):

The machine comes with a 51mm two-cup filter and a 51mm portafilter. The need for additional consumables and the recommended maintenance cycle are not mentioned in the provided information.

Value-Added Features (Assessing the Usefulness of Additional Functions):

The heated cup holder is a valuable addition, ensuring that users can enjoy their espresso-based drinks at the optimal temperature. The compact size and powerful performance also add value for users with limited space or high expectations for their home brewing experience.

Brand and Customer Support

CASABREWS is a US-based company committed to providing top-quality espresso machines and excellent customer support. With a 1-year warranty and responsive customer service, you can buy with confidence knowing that your satisfaction is their priority.

Use Cases

The CM1699 is ideal for espresso-based drinks like lattes, cappuccinos, Americanos and macchiatos. It has the power to extract bold, intense espresso shots and the steam wand can froth milk for silky foam. Great for entertainng guests or daily coffee drinkers.

User Feedback Analysis

Early reviews suggest that users are enjoying the CASABREWS CM1699 20 Bar Espresso Machine‘s ease of use and cleaning. One customer noted that the machine works well but had difficulty separating the filter from the filter holder.

Pros and Cons

Pros:
- Compact size perfect for small spaces
- Powerful 20-bar Italian pump for optimal extraction
- Adjustable milk frother for creamy, microfoam milk
- User-friendly features for easy operation and cleaning
- Heated cup holder for convenient pre-warming

Cons:
- One user reported difficulty separating the filter from the filter holder

Value for Money:
The CASABREWS CM1699 20 Bar Espresso Machine offers a wealth of features at an affordable price point, making it an excellent investment for espresso enthusiasts seeking to elevate their home brewing experience without overspending. With its powerful pump, adjustable milk frother, and user-friendly design, this machine provides a cost-effective way to enjoy barista-quality drinks in the comfort of your own home or office.

Conclusion

For its affordable price, the CASABREWS CM1699 delivers outstanding performance and ease of use. It’s the perfect compact espresso machine for beginners learning to make cafe-style coffee drinks at home as well as more advanced home baristas. The 20 bar pressure and steam wand create delicious espressos, cappuccinos and lattes.

Considering its outstanding performance and reasonable price point, the CASABREWS CM1699 20 Bar Espresso Machine is an ideal choice for consumers seeking a high-quality home espresso experience.

Specifications

  • Product Dimensions: 11.26”D x 11.54”W x 8.43”H
  • Item Weight: 8.18 pounds
  • Wattage: 950 watts
  • Capacity: 50 oz water tank
  • Pump Pressure: 20 bar
  • Material: Stainless Steel, Plastic
  • Operation Mode: Semi-Automatic
  • Filter Type: Two Cup Filter and Double Shots Portafilter
  • Country of Origin: China

Some specifications not explicitly mentioned in the provided information are marked as “unknown”.

What’s in the Box

  • CASABREWS CM1699 20 Bar Espresso Machine
  • 50 oz Removable Water Tank
  • Instruction Manual
  • 51mm Two Cup Filter
  • 51mm Portafilter
  • Tamper with Spoon

CASABREWS CM1699 20 Bar Espresso Machine User Manual

Important Safety Instructions

  • Read all instructions before using the espresso machine.
  • Do not touch hot surfaces. Use handles or knobs.
  • To protect against fire, electric shock, and personal injury, do not immerse cord, plugs, or the appliance in water or other liquids.
  • Close supervision is necessary when the appliance is used near children.
  • Unplug from outlet when not in use and before cleaning. Allow to cool before putting on or taking off parts.
  • Do not operate any appliance with a damaged cord or plug, or after the appliance malfunctions or has been damaged in any manner. Return the appliance to the nearest authorized service facility for examination, repair, or adjustment.
  • The use of accessory attachments not recommended by the appliance manufacturer may result in fire, electric shock, or personal injury.
  • Do not use outdoors.
  • Do not let the cord hang over the edge of a table or counter, or touch hot surfaces.
  • Do not place on or near a hot gas or electric burner, or in a heated oven.
  • To disconnect, turn any control to “off,” then remove the plug from the wall outlet.
  • Do not use the appliance for other than its intended use.
  • Scalding may occur if the frother is opened during the brewing cycles.

First Use Cycle (Rinse and Prepare)

  1. Fill the reservoir with room temperature water.
  2. Plug in the machine.
  3. Turn on the machine.
  4. Place a cup on the counter under the steam wand.
  5. Turn the Steam Knob to the “+” position.
  6. Turn on the coffee button.
  7. Let hot water spout out for 10 seconds.
  8. Return the Steam Knob to the “off” position.
  9. Turn off the coffee button.
  10. Your espresso machine is now ready for use!

Note: There will be a loud noise and a little shake when the machine is running for the first time. This is normal for a 20-bar pump. The noise will decrease with further use.

Preheating the Brewing System

For optimal coffee temperature, preheat the brewing system with your coffee cup at least once before extraction.

  1. Turn on the machine.
  2. Insert the filter holder (without coffee grounds) into the group head.
  3. Turn the filter holder to the right until it locks into place.
  4. Position the cup on the drip tray under the filter holder.
  5. Turn on the coffee button.
  6. Let hot water spout out for 20 seconds.
  7. Turn off the coffee button.
  8. Empty the hot water from the cup.

Making Espresso

  1. Turn the filter holder to the left and remove it from the group head.
  2. Wipe the filter basket with a dry cloth.
  3. Fill the filter with coffee grounds (14g recommended).
  4. Evenly tamp the coffee grounds.
  5. Wipe the edges to clear any coffee residue.
  6. Turn the filter holder to the right and lock it into the group head.
  7. Position the cup on the drip tray under the filter holder.
  8. Make sure the steam button is OFF.
  9. Turn on the coffee button.
  10. Start brewing.
  11. Turn off the coffee button when the desired amount of espresso is reached.

Frothing Milk

  1. Fill the pitcher with cold milk to just below the bottom of the spout.
  2. Insert the steam wand tip just below the surface of the milk.
  3. Turn the Steam Knob to the “+” position.
  4. Frothing makes a smooth hissing noise. Check that the milk is moving in a whirlpool action.
  5. As the milk level rises, lower the pitcher to keep the steam wand halfway submerged.
  6. When the desired microfoam is achieved, immerse the steam wand halfway.
  7. Milk is ready when the pitcher is too hot to touch for 3 seconds.
  8. Remove the pitcher from the steam wand.
  9. Return the Steam Knob to the “off” position.
  10. Turn off the steam button.
  11. Wipe the steam wand and tip with a damp cloth.
  12. Tap the pitcher to release larger air bubbles.
  13. Swirl the pitcher to blend the milk and create a silky texture.
  14. Pour milk in one steady stream.

Note: Do not make coffee immediately after frothing milk. The boiler must cool down first, or the coffee will be burnt and may come out from the filter holder. Proceed as below.

Cooling Down After Frothing Milk

  1. Make sure the steam button is OFF.
  2. Turn on the coffee button.
  3. Turn the Steam Knob to the “+” position.
  4. Let hot water come out from the steam wand for about 8 seconds.
  5. Turn off the coffee button.
  6. Return the Steam Knob to the “off” position. The coffee maker is ready for the next brew.

Cleaning and Maintenance

  • After each use, wipe the exterior surfaces with a soft, damp cloth.
  • Empty and clean the drip tray regularly.
  • Clean the steam wand after each use with a damp cloth.
  • Descale the machine every 3-6 months, depending on water hardness and usage frequency.

Troubleshooting

  • If the machine leaks: Ensure all parts are properly assembled and the steam button is off during brewing.
  • If the coffee is not hot enough: Preheat the cups and brewing system.
  • If the machine makes a loud noise: This is normal for the first use and will decrease with further use.

If you experience any other issues, please contact CASABREWS customer support for assistance.