Calphalon Temp iQ Espresso Machine with Coffee Grinder

Espresso, originating in early 20th-century Italy, is a concentrated form of coffee made by forcing hot water under high pressure through finely ground coffee beans. This unique preparation method not only speeds up the coffee extraction process but also enhances the coffee’s intensity and aroma. Espresso is at the heart of modern coffee culture and forms the base for various popular coffee drinks such as lattes, cappuccinos, and mochas.

The Calphalon Temp iQ Espresso Machine with Coffee Grinder is an attractive and well-designed espresso machine that allows you to freshly grind beans and pull delicious espresso shots at home. With a built-in conical burr grinder, 15-bar pump pressure, PID temperature control, and easy-to-use controls, this machine aims to give you café-quality espresso without the hassle. In this review, I’ll take an in-depth look at the features, performance, build quality, and value of the Calphalon Temp iQ Espresso Machine to help you decide if it’s the right espresso machine for your home brewing needs.

Overview

• Brand: Calphalon
• Model: Temp iQ Espresso Machine with Coffee Grinder
• Grinder: Conical burr grinder with 30 grind settings
• Pump Pressure: 15 bars
• Boiler System: Thermoblock heating + PID temperature control
• Water Tank Capacity: 2.8 liters removable
• Milk Frothing: Steam wand
• Included Accessories: Tamper, milk jug, cleaning tools, single & double shot filters

The Calphalon Temp iQ Espresso Machine has an attractive stainless steel exterior with handy dial controls and a 2.8-liter removable water tank. Its built-in conical burr grinder allows you to freshly grind beans right before brewing, with 30 adjustable coarseness settings. The 15-bar Italian pump delivers excellent pressure for maximum flavor extraction, while the PID temperature control system ensures precise heating.

Key Features

The Calphalon Temp iQ Espresso Machine with Coffee Grinder boasts an impressive array of features designed to elevate your home espresso experience:

• Integrated Conical Burr Grinder: Enjoy the freshest espresso with the built-in grinder, offering 30 adjustable settings for precise control over your grind.
• Thermoblock Heating and PID Temperature Control: Achieve consistent and optimal brewing temperatures for perfectly extracted espresso.
• Pre-infusion Function: Enhance the flavor and aroma of your espresso with the pre-infusion function, which gently blooms the coffee grounds before extraction.
• Powerful Steam Wand: Craft velvety microfoam for lattes and cappuccinos with the powerful steam wand.
• Intuitive User Interface: Easily navigate the machine’s settings and functions with the user-friendly interface.
• Additional Conveniences: Benefit from features like auto shot volumetric control, a cup warmer, and a generous water tank capacity.

These key features combine to make the Calphalon Temp iQ Espresso Machine with Coffee Grinder a compelling choice for both novice and experienced home baristas seeking exceptional espresso quality and convenience.

Calphalon: A Legacy of Culinary Excellence

Calphalon, a renowned brand in the culinary world, has a rich history of crafting high-quality cookware and kitchen appliances. Founded in 1963 in Perrysburg, Ohio, Calphalon initially specialized in anodized aluminum cookware, which quickly gained popularity among professional chefs and home cooks alike. Over the years, Calphalon has expanded its product line to include a wide range of kitchen tools and appliances, all designed with a focus on innovation, performance, and durability. Today, Calphalon is a trusted name in kitchens worldwide, known for its commitment to helping people create exceptional culinary experiences.

Design and Build Quality

With its stainless steel housing and dial control interface, the Calphalon Temp iQ Espresso Machine has an attractive, commercial-style look that fits right in with other high-end kitchen appliances. The metal construction feels sturdy and durable, built to withstand daily use. The 58mm portafilter is a nice oversized size that promotes even water dispersion. The portafilter is made from durable stainless steel, ensuring even heat distribution and longevity. While largely well-designed, some users felt the drip tray could be better engineered to contain splashes. Overall though, the Calphalon Temp iQ Espresso Machine’s design is focused on performance while still looking sleek on the countertop.

Additionally, the Calphalon Temp iQ Espresso Machine is equipped with a 2.8-liter removable water tank, which facilitates easy cleaning and quick refilling. The design of the water tank is user-centric, allowing for simple removal from the machine for fast refills under a faucet, eliminating the need to move the entire machine.

Ease of Use

The Calphalon Temp iQ Espresso Machine has been designed for simple everyday use. Buttons on the front panel allow you to choose between making a single or double shot, steaming, or dispensing hot water. A dial makes it easy to select your grind setting. The water tank has clear markings and a handle for removing to refill. All parts securely lock into place without any fuss. Assembling and disassembling the machine for cleaning and maintenance is a breeze. First-time users should read the manual to understand basic functions and setup steps. But after going through the initial learning curve, I found the machine very intuitive to operate on a daily basis.

The Calphalon Temp iQ Espresso Machine boasts an impressive heat-up time, reaching the appropriate temperature for extraction in about 30 seconds. This rapid heating capability ensures that you can start making coffee swiftly when needed, without a lengthy wait, greatly enhancing user convenience and satisfaction.

Espresso Extraction

The 15-bar pump provides excellent pressure for pulling flavorful shots. Pressurized pre-infusion helps saturate the coffee for an even extraction. I tested the machine pulling both single and double shots. The double shots were ready in under 30 seconds. After dialing in the grind, the extractions produced a rich crema layer with good viscosity and around 2:1 brew ratio in 25-30 seconds. The espresso tasted well-balanced without bitterness. The 58mm basket size and portafilter design help improve extraction. Overall the Calphalon Temp iQ Espresso Machine makes high-quality espresso on par with semi-automatic machines costing much more.

Brewing Experience

With its simple dial controls, built-in grinder, and thoughtful features like a cup warmer and auto shot settings, the Calphalon Temp iQ Espresso Machine makes it easy for anyone to achieve café-caliber results right in their own kitchen. The conical burr grinder in particular is a huge convenience, eliminating the need for a separate grinding appliance. Just fill the hopper with your favorite beans, select your grind size, and you’re ready to start brewing amazing espresso.

The pre-infusion cycle and quality hardware result in rich, intense espresso with a luscious crema on top. Milk froths up light and airy for perfect cappuccino and latte foam. Overall, the Calphalon Temp iQ Espresso Machine consistently delivers on taste and is an excellent option for home baristas looking to master their craft.

Intuitive User Interface

Navigating the Calphalon Temp iQ Espresso Machine is a breeze, thanks to its intuitive user interface. Clear buttons and a dial control make it easy to select your desired brewing options, adjust the grind size, and control the steam wand. The machine provides visual feedback through indicator lights, keeping you informed about the brewing process and when it’s time for cleaning or maintenance. Even if you’re new to espresso making, the user-friendly interface ensures that you can operate the machine with confidence.

Hot Water Dispenser

For those who enjoy Americanos or other hot beverages, the Calphalon Temp iQ Espresso Machine features a dedicated hot water dispenser. This convenient feature allows you to quickly and easily dispense hot water without having to switch between brewing and steaming modes. Whether you want to dilute your espresso for an Americano or prepare tea or hot chocolate, the hot water dispenser adds versatility to your coffee-making routine.

Thermoblock Heating and PID Temperature Control

The Calphalon Temp iQ Espresso Machine employs a thermoblock heating system combined with PID (Proportional-Integral-Derivative) temperature control. This dynamic duo ensures that the water used for brewing reaches and maintains the optimal temperature throughout the extraction process. The thermoblock rapidly heats the water, minimizing waiting time, while the PID controller constantly monitors and adjusts the temperature to ensure consistency. This precision in temperature control is crucial for extracting the full range of flavors from your coffee grounds, resulting in a well-balanced and delicious espresso.

Pre-Infusion Function

Pre-infusion is a technique that involves briefly wetting the coffee grounds before the full brewing pressure is applied. The Calphalon Temp iQ Espresso Machine incorporates this feature to enhance the extraction process. By gently saturating the grounds, pre-infusion allows for a more even extraction, as it helps to release trapped gases and ensures that all the coffee particles come into contact with water. This results in a more flavorful and aromatic espresso, with reduced bitterness and a smoother taste.

15 Bar Italian Pump

The heart of any espresso machine is its pump, and the Calphalon Temp iQ is equipped with a robust 15-bar Italian pump. This pump generates the high pressure necessary to force hot water through finely ground coffee, extracting the rich flavors, oils, and aromas that define espresso. The 15-bar pressure is considered the gold standard for espresso brewing, ensuring optimal extraction and a thick, crema-topped espresso.

58mm Commercial-Sized Portafilter

The Calphalon Temp iQ Espresso Machine sets itself apart with its 58mm commercial-sized portafilter. This larger size is not just for show; it serves a crucial function in the espresso-making process. The wider diameter of the portafilter allows for a more even distribution of water across the coffee puck during extraction. This even saturation ensures that all the coffee grounds are fully utilized, resulting in a more balanced and flavorful espresso. Additionally, the larger size makes it easier to distribute and tamp the coffee grounds evenly, further contributing to consistent extraction and a delicious cup of espresso.

Auto Shot Volumetric Control

One of the convenient features of the Calphalon Temp iQ Espresso Machine is its auto shot volumetric control. This function allows you to choose between pre-programmed single and double shots, ensuring consistent volumes with each brew. If you prefer more control, you can also use the dial interface to manually adjust the shot volume to your liking. This flexibility caters to both beginners who want a hassle-free brewing experience and experienced baristas who enjoy customizing their espresso shots.

Cup Warmer for Optimal Espresso Temperature

The integrated cup warmer keeps your cups at the ideal temperature, ensuring that your espresso stays hot and flavorful.

Extra Tall Cup Clearance

The Calphalon Temp iQ Espresso Machine accommodates a variety of cup sizes, including taller mugs and travel cups. With ample clearance beneath the brew head, you can easily fit your favorite cup to catch your espresso. This feature is especially handy for those who prefer larger drinks or use travel mugs for their daily commute.

Milk Frothing Ability

With its powerful steam wand, the Calphalon Temp iQ Espresso Machine excels at frothing milk for cappuccinos and lattes. The steam pressure is strong enough to allow you to plunge the tip deep into the milk for quick incorporation of air and silky microfoam on top. The results are smooth, creamy milk topping that looks and tastes like a professional did it. The milk temperature is also controllable, allowing you to achieve the perfect level of warmth for your preferred drinks. Be careful not to over-froth, as the steam power can quickly overheat the milk.

Additionally, it’s worth noting that the noise level of the Calphalon Temp iQ Espresso Machine during operation is comparable to that of a standard kitchen blender. While this level of noise is quite typical for home espresso machines, it might be a factor to consider if you are using the machine early in the morning and prefer not to disturb others. However, in terms of overall performance, the noise level of this machine is within an acceptable range.

Evaluating the Built-In Grinder

One of the Calphalon Temp iQ Espresso Machine’s major highlights is its integrated conical burr grinder, which allows you to freshly grind coffee beans right before brewing. This grinder’s performance and grind consistency significantly impacts the final flavor of shots, so it’s an important factor to assess.

Overall, most users seem very satisfied with the grinder. They like the simplicity of having an all-in-one appliance, rather than needing a separate grinder. The 30 adjustable grind settings allow customers to fine tune everything from a fine espresso powder up to a coarse grind for drip coffee. This versatility allows users to experiment and find the perfect grind size to suit their individual taste preferences.

Many reviews mention how quiet the grinder is relative to standalone units, making early morning coffee prep less disruptive. Users also appreciate the auto-shutoff feature that stops the grinding once the selected dose is dispensed into the portafilter below. This promotes accurate, hands-free dosing.

In terms of grind consistency, customers find the grounds have minimal clumping and a smooth, even texture. This allows for proper tamping and extraction when pulling shots. Flavor and complexity comes through clearly, without muddiness from uneven grinds.

However, some users did feel the grinder could be more powerful and found it a bit slow when grinding for very fine espresso. And a few wished the hopper was bigger than the roughly 1/2 pound capacity. But overall, most agreed the integrated grinder performs very well and is a major convenience for daily at-home brewing. It delivers fresh, customizable grounds that extract beautifully into high quality espresso.

Cup Warmer

The Calphalon Temp iQ Espresso Machine includes a convenient cup warmer on top of the machine. This feature might seem minor, but it plays a significant role in the enjoyment of your espresso. Pre-warming your cups helps to maintain the temperature of your espresso once it’s brewed. Espresso is best enjoyed hot, and a cold cup can quickly cool down your beverage, diminishing its flavor and aroma. The cup warmer ensures that your espresso stays at the ideal temperature, allowing you to savor every sip.

Removable 2.8L Water Reservoir

The Calphalon Temp iQ Espresso Machine is equipped with a generous 2.8-liter removable water reservoir. This large capacity means you can brew multiple espresso shots without having to refill the tank constantly. The removable design makes it easy to fill the tank under a faucet and clean it thoroughly. The water level is clearly visible, so you’ll always know when it’s time for a refill.

Noise Level

The brewing and steaming processes on the Calphalon Temp iQ Espresso Machine are fairly loud, approximately the same volume as a standard kitchen blender. The pump and heating elements engage powerfully when pulling shots or steaming milk. This isn’t ideal first thing in the morning if you have housemates still sleeping, but it’s par for the course with home espresso machines. Just be prepared for an operating volume similar to other small kitchen appliances.

Cleaning and Maintenance

While very convenient, the integrated grinder does make it important to regularly clean out old grounds and coffee oils from the chute. The removable brew head, drip tray, water reservoir, and steam wand are all simple to disassemble, rinse, and wipe down. Backflushing the group head monthly is also advised to keep things spotless. Overall, clean-up is quick, especially if you stay on top of rinsing and wiping after each use.

Use Cases

The Calphalon Temp iQ Espresso Machine is ideal for espresso drinkers who want to recreate café-style drinks at home. It has the power and features needed for pulling quality shots of espresso and texturing milk for cappuccinos or lattes. This machine is suited for home use and low to moderate daily volume. It may not stand up to the demands of a busy office or café environment.

Diving into User Reviews

With over 3,800 customer ratings on Amazon, the Calphalon Temp iQ Espresso Machine has a wealth of user feedback that offers valuable insights into its real-world performance. The majority of reviews are positive, with many users remarking on the exceptional espresso this machine can produce. When functioning properly, the Calphalon Temp iQ Espresso Machine makes patrons feel like professional baristas in their own kitchens.

The convenience of the built-in grinder is widely praised, as is the simplicity of the overall operation. Numerous customers found it quite easy to make cafe-quality lattes, cappuccinos, and other milk-based drinks with the Calphalon Temp iQ Espresso Machine’s steaming abilities. Many also appreciate the rapid heating time, adjustable grind settings, and programmable shot volumes that take the guesswork out of pulling shots.

However, a portion of buyers did experience issues with reliability and longevity, reporting problems with pump pressure or temperature consistency after some months of use. Others found the noise level to be disruptive, especially early in the morning. And some felt the drip tray overflowed too easily or didn’t contain splashes well.

But the majority of critiques focused on mechanical problems or noise levels, not the actual coffee taste and texture when the machine is functioning properly. Most agreed that when dialed in correctly, the Calphalon Temp iQ Espresso Machine produces rich, intense espresso with thick golden crema on top. And the microfoam from the steam wand rivals a professional barista’s. So while a segment of users encountered quality control issues, when operating as designed, the Calphalon Temp iQ Espresso Machine brews world-class espresso worthy of any coffee shop.

Pros

• Built-in conical burr grinder for fresh grounds
• Powerful 15-bar pressure pump
• Precise PID temperature control
• Easy to use controls and steam wand
• Makes rich, creamy espresso
• Allows customizing drink strength and volume
• Heats up quickly
• Removable water tank for easy filling
• Produces quality microfoam for lattes
• Solid overall construction

Cons

• Louder when grinding and brewing compared to some models
• No simultaneous brewing and steaming
• Small drip tray may require frequent emptying
• Short 1 year warranty
• Reports of mediocre customer service

Value

The Calphalon Temp iQ Espresso Machine has an MSRP of $680 but routinely sells for $100-200 less. Considering it includes a built-in grinder,PID temperature control, and excellent espresso performance, this machine provides outstanding value. Many comparably equipped semi-automatic espresso machines cost upwards of $1000. While not inexpensive, the Calphalon Temp iQ Espresso Machine delivers features and quality far beyond its price making it a great buy for home brewing.

Conclusion

The Calphalon Temp iQ Espresso Machine with Coffee Grinder is one of the best values on the market for under $700. With its impressive performance, convenience of an integrated grinder, solid build, and easy maintenance, this machine consistently delivers high-quality espresso drinks. While not as refined or feature-packed as pricier models, it outperforms expectations and won’t break the bank like prosumer machines. For espresso lovers wanting café-style results without complexity or cost, the Calphalon Temp iQ Espresso Machine is easy to recommend.

After-Sales Service

Calphalon offers a 3-year limited warranty for the Temp iQ Espresso Machine, covering material and manufacturing defects. Should any issues arise during the warranty period, users can contact Calphalon’s customer service center for repair or replacement. Additionally, Calphalon’s customer support team provides telephone and online support to help resolve any queries or issues during usage. To ensure customers can fully utilize their espresso machine, Calphalon also offers extensive online resources, including FAQs, maintenance guides, and usage tips.

Specifications

• Dimensions: 12.6” D x 13.6” W x 16” H
• Weight: 21.8 pounds
• Material: Stainless steel, plastic
• Wattage: 1450 watts
• Capacity: 2.8 liters water tank
• Filter basket diameter: 58mm
• Grinder: Conical burr grinder
• Pump Pressure: 15 bars
• Maximum cup height: 4.4 inches

What’s in the Box

The Calphalon Temp iQ Espresso Machine comes with everything you need to start making amazing coffee drinks:

• Espresso machine base
• Portafilter
• Single and double shot filter baskets
• Steaming wand and frothing pitcher
• Removable 2.8L water reservoir
• Measuring scoop
• Tamping tool
• Cleaning brush, pin, and disc

Calphalon Temp iQ Espresso Machine with Grinder User Manual

Important Safeguards

1. Read all instructions before use.
2. Do not touch hot surfaces. Use handles or knobs.
3. Do not immerse the appliance in water or other liquids.
4. This appliance is not intended for use by children or individuals with reduced capabilities.
5. Unplug when not in use and before cleaning. Allow to cool before handling.
6. Do not operate with a damaged cord or plug. Return to an authorized service center for repair.
7. Use only recommended accessories.
8. Do not use outdoors or for commercial purposes.
9. Do not let the cord hang over edges or touch hot surfaces.
10. Do not place on or near hot surfaces.
11. Always attach the plug to the appliance first, then plug into the wall outlet.
12. Do not misuse the appliance.
13. Do not open the brew chamber during the brew cycle.
14. For models using capsules, use only intended capsules.
15. Check the hopper for foreign objects before grinding.

Before First Use

1. Wash and dry removable parts (milk pitcher, filter baskets, water reservoir, portafilter, bean hopper, tamper).
2. Place accessories in storage.
3. Fill the water reservoir with cold water.
4. Plug in the machine and press the ON/OFF button.
5. Allow the machine to warm up (lights will indicate readiness).

Making Espresso

1. Warm your cup using the hot water dispenser or warming plate.
2. Insert the desired filter basket into the portafilter.
3. Grind coffee beans into the portafilter using the grinding cradle.
4. Tamp the coffee grounds evenly.
5. Wipe excess grounds from the portafilter rim.
6. Insert the portafilter into the group head and lock it.
7. Place your cup under the spouts.
8. Press the ONE SHOT or TWO SHOT button for automatic brewing.
9. For custom volumes, press and hold the MANUAL SHOT button, then press again to stop when desired.

Milk Frothing

1. Fill the milk pitcher with cold milk.
2. Turn the DIAL to STEAM and wait for the STEAM light to turn on.
3. Position the steam wand tip just below the milk’s surface.
4. Turn the DIAL back to STEAM to start frothing.
5. Lower the pitcher as the milk expands, keeping the tip submerged.
6. Froth to your desired level, then immerse the tip deeper to heat the milk.
7. Turn the DIAL to the vertical position when done.
8. Purge the steam wand with hot water.
9. Wipe the wand with a damp cloth.

Cleaning and Maintenance

• Daily: Rinse portafilter and filter basket, wipe steam wand, empty drip tray.
• Weekly: Clean drip tray and grind bin, purge group head, clean shower screen.
• Monthly: Clean grinder burrs, descale the machine.

Descaling

1. Fill the water reservoir with descaling solution (or vinegar/water mixture).
2. Follow the on-screen instructions or the descaling cycle outlined in the manual.
3. Rinse the water reservoir thoroughly and refill with fresh water.
4. Run a cleaning cycle to flush out any remaining solution.

Troubleshooting

Refer to the troubleshooting guide in the manual for solutions to common issues.

Warranty

This product is covered by a 3-year limited warranty. Please contact Calphalon customer service for assistance.