Café Affetto Automatic Espresso Machine: Quick Brewing and Custom Drinks

The Allure of Espresso: A Fusion of History and Culture

Espresso, a shining jewel in coffee culture, is more than just a beverage; it’s a symbol of a lifestyle. Born in early 20th century Italy, it was initially created to meet the demand for a quick, strong coffee. Over time, espresso has evolved into a unique coffee culture, with its preparation process akin to art and its tasting a true indulgence.

The unique charm of espresso lies in its rich flavor and complex taste. The coffee liquid extracted under high pressure contains the most essential aromatic substances and flavor components of the coffee beans, making every sip a lingering pleasure. The cultural connotation of espresso is even deeper, representing the Italian love for life and the pursuit of quality. Whether it’s the hustle and bustle of a corner cafe or the lingering aroma of a home espresso machine, espresso adds a unique flavor to people’s lives.

With the advancement of technology, automatic espresso machines have emerged, and the Café Affetto Automatic Espresso Machine is a leader among them. It perfectly combines modern technology with user needs, aiming to provide coffee lovers with an efficient, convenient, and personalized coffee experience.

As life’s pace accelerates, people increasingly lean towards quick and convenient coffee brewing solutions, propelling the automatic espresso machine market forward. These machines not only offer the convenience of rapid coffee production but also deliver an unprecedented personalized coffee experience through integrated grinders and customization programs. The Café Affetto Automatic Espresso Machine is a product of this market trend, combining modern technology with user demands, aimed at providing coffee enthusiasts with an efficient and personalized brewing solution.

For espresso enthusiasts looking for convenience and customization, the Café Affetto Automatic Espresso Machine delivers quick brewing and app connectivity in a compact, stylish package. In this review, we’ll examine the key features and performance of this innovative appliance.

Overview

The Café Affetto Automatic Espresso Machine combines automation and personalization to brew espresso, Americano, Lungo and more with the press of a button. Its built-in conical burr grinder offers 5 grind settings, while the SmartHQ app allows customizing drink strength and volume. With a 90-second heat up and 20 bars of pressure, it promises café-quality espresso at home. The Café Affetto Automatic Espresso Machine is also available in matte white and steel silver, in addition to matte black. This diverse color selection allows users to choose the most suitable espresso machine according to their personal preferences or kitchen decor.

Key Features

• One-Touch Brewing: Enjoy your coffee in under 90 seconds with just a press of a button.
• Balanced Extraction: Low-pressure pre-infusion and 20-bar high-pressure extraction ensure balanced coffee flavor.
• Built-in Conical Burr Grinder: 5 grind settings to adjust according to your coffee beans.
• WiFi Connectivity and App Control: Customize coffee strength, volume, and more through the SmartHQ app.
• Large Bean Hopper and Water Reservoir: Reduce the hassle of frequent refilling.
• Compact and Easy to Clean: Removable parts and automatic rinsing for easy maintenance.

Market Trends in Automatic Espresso Machines

As modern life accelerates, automatic espresso machines are increasingly favored for their convenience and efficiency. These machines not only prepare various types of coffee quickly but also cater to personalized taste preferences through smart functionalities, such as app controls. This trend reflects the growing consumer demand for quick, convenient, and customizable coffee solutions.

Design and Build

The Café Affetto Automatic Espresso Machine measures 12.5 x 7.25 x 13.75 inches and weighs 19 pounds. Encased in matte black, the Café Affetto Automatic Espresso Machine has an elegant yet minimalist look. Its 12.5 x 7.25 x 13.75 inch footprint fits well on countertops without occupying too much space. The machine feels sturdy and durable thanks to its stainless steel exterior.

Easy-to-use touch buttons and a responsive display screen make operation intuitive. The Café Affetto Automatic Espresso Machine contains a 180g bean hopper, 1.2L removable water reservoir, stainless steel portafilter with commercial-size basket, and fold-away cup tray.

This espresso machine features a high-quality stainless steel exterior, not only for aesthetics but also for durability. Stainless steel helps in keeping the device clean as it resists smudges and fingerprints effectively. Additionally, its compact design not only saves space but is also crafted with user convenience in mind, with all control buttons designed to be easily accessible and operable. Furthermore, the Café Affetto Automatic Espresso Machine is equipped with an adjustable coffee dispensing spout to accommodate different cup sizes, whether it’s a small espresso cup or a larger latte cup.

Grinding and Brewing Performance

The Café Affetto Automatic Espresso Machine utilizes a technique called low-pressure pre-infusion. Before extraction begins, the coffee grounds are pre-wetted with a small amount of water, which helps to release the oils and aromas in the coffee, laying a solid foundation for the subsequent high-pressure extraction. After pre-infusion, the machine applies up to 20 bars of pressure, ensuring that the hot water passes through the coffee grounds evenly, thus more fully extracting the coffee’s flavor compounds. This combined method of low-pressure pre-infusion and high-pressure extraction allows the coffee to exhibit a richer and more balanced flavor.

Low-Pressure Pre-Infusion and High-Pressure Extraction Explained

Low-pressure pre-infusion is a gentle coffee extraction technique that pre-wets the coffee grounds at low pressure, helping to release the oils and aromas in the coffee, setting a solid foundation for the subsequent high-pressure extraction. The 20-bar high-pressure extraction ensures a more uniform and thorough extraction of the coffee’s flavor compounds. This method, combining low-pressure pre-infusion and high-pressure extraction, allows the coffee to exhibit a richer and more balanced taste. This pre-infusion process allows the coffee grounds to absorb water evenly, reducing the occurrence of channeling, where water forms channels in the coffee grounds, leading to uneven extraction. The high-pressure extraction then dissolves the flavor substances in the coffee more fully, including caffeine, oils, and aromatic compounds, resulting in a stronger and richer coffee.

One Touch Brewing

With the press of a button, the Café Affetto Automatic Espresso Machine can deliver espresso, americano, lungo, or hot water in under 90 seconds. The “My Cup” function is programmed for ristretto but can be customized via the app.

Balanced Flavor Extraction

It gently blooms the coffee grounds with low pressure then ramps up to 20 bars for even saturation and extraction, resulting in balanced flavor.

Built-In Conical Burr Grinder & Adjustable Grind Size

The stainless steel conical burr grinder grinds beans just before brewing and has 5 grind size settings from coarse to fine for optimized flavor. The working principle of this grinder is that two grinding discs with sharp edges rotate relative to each other at a specific speed. Coffee beans are evenly ground into particles between the two grinding discs, and the degree of grinding can be controlled by adjusting the distance between the grinding discs.

WiFi Connected App for Customization

Connect to the SmartHQ app to customize drink strength, volume, and save favorite recipes. Software can also be updated via WiFi. Once connected to the SmartHQ app, users can save their favorite coffee recipes and adjust temperature, pre-infusion time, water hardness, and other settings, in addition to the volume and strength of the espresso. In addition, through the WiFi connection, users can also get the latest software updates, to ensure that the coffee machine always has the best functionality and performance.

Water Hardness Detection and Customization

In addition to connecting to the SmartHQ app for custom settings, the Café Affetto Automatic Espresso Machine comes equipped with water hardness test strips. Users can set the corresponding water hardness level in the app based on the test results, thereby adjusting the frequency of descaling reminders. This ensures optimal performance and lifespan of the machine, providing personalized maintenance recommendations based on local water conditions.

Large Hopper and Water Reservoir

The over 180g bean hopper and 1.2L removable water reservoir need less frequent refilling.

Compact Footprint Easy to Clean

Despite its small size, the Café Affetto Automatic Espresso Machine houses a burr grinder and bean hopper for fresh grinding. The parts are easy to access for rinsing and cleaning.

Milk Frothing:

The panarello steam wand on the Café Affetto Automatic Espresso Machine can froth and texture milk nicely for lattes and cappuccinos. It produces silky, foamy milk without the learning curve of manual wands. The foam is not as finely textured as high-end machines but very good for an automatic. The steam wand works by heating water to a high temperature and causing it to expand rapidly, thereby producing steam. The steam is injected into the milk, heating it and introducing air, creating tiny bubbles that result in a creamy milk foam.

Maintenance

To maintain the freshness and flavor of the coffee, the Café Affetto Automatic Espresso Machine automatically rinses itself before and after each brew. This automatic cleaning function helps to prevent coffee residue from building up inside the machine, ensuring a pure-tasting coffee every time.

Noise Level and Power

The Café Affetto Automatic Espresso Machine uses 1235 Watts of power during operation and produces some noise during grinding and brewing, but is not excessively loud.

Origin & Launch

The Café Affetto is manufactured by GE Appliances and was launched in November 2021.

Usage Scenarios

The Café Affetto Automatic Espresso Machine is ideal for home kitchens and office use. It can deliver café-style drinks at the press of a button without taking up much counter space. The SmartHQ app connectivity also makes it fun for customizing drinks.

User Feedback:

The Café Affetto Automatic Espresso Machine automatic espresso machine has garnered mainly positive feedback from reviewers. They praise its swift brew speeds, easy operation, and app-enabled customization. Many users say it produces smooth, rich espresso with nicely balanced flavor. They are pleased with the convenience of the integrated grinder and bean hopper. The sleek compact size and intuitive interface are also highlights.

Satisfied customers call out the one touch brewing as a major perk for busy mornings. They love waking up to a fresh espresso or americano in under 90 seconds at the press of a button. Users mention how the Café Affetto Automatic Espresso Machine eliminates the need to fumble with portafilters and manual tamping to pull great shots. Several working professionals enjoy using the machine in their office for an afternoon pick-me-up without leaving the building. They appreciate the small footprint too.

Many reviewers compliment the quality of the espresso. They say the Café Affetto Automatic Espresso Machine results in smooth espresso with a nice crema layer and rich flavor. Users attribute this to the 20 bar pressure for balanced extraction and precise built-in grinder. Several highlight how the grind customization allows them to optimize the grounds for whichever beans they use. Fans of milk drinks say the panarello steam wand froths milk quite well for tasty cappuccinos and lattes too.

A standout feature users rave about is the app connectivity and customization. They love the ability to tweak drink volumes, strength and save personalized recipes from the SmartHQ app. Some enjoy experimenting with the settings to dial in their perfect ristretto or americano via the app. Being able to update the machine’s software via WiFi is considered a bonus.

Despite the many positive reviews, some users experienced a few drawbacks. A consistent complaint is the inability to use dark roast coffee beans due to the oiliness. Quite a few customers are frustrated at being limited to only medium roasts, as they prefer a darker espresso. Some reviewers say the espresso lacks the bold intensity achieved on manual lever machines, noting it’s a tad watery. Several users wish the hot water temperature was hotter for americanos. A number of owners criticize the preset “My Cup” options as too limiting and desire fully customizable drink settings instead.

Overall the Café Affetto Automatic Espresso Machine earns widespread praise for its swift brewing speed, ease of use, mobile app integration, and espresso flavor. While some users want more custom settings, hotter water, and the ability to use dark roasts, most are very happy with the quality, convenience and value the machine provides. It earns high marks as an automatic home espresso machine with smart connectivity and a small countertop footprint.

Pros:

• Fast, consistent brewing
• Compact, stylish design
• Convenient customization via app
• Easy to operate and clean

Cons:

• Smaller drink size capacity
• App connectivity can be glitchy
• Expensive upfront cost

Value:

For an automatic machine under $1000, the Café Affetto Automatic Espresso Machine provides excellent value. The swift one touch brewing, app customization, and built-in burr grinder make it much more capable than comparably priced machines. The quality surpasses capsule brewers while avoiding their high long-term costs. Overall, it provides great functionality, convenience and quality for the price.

Conclusion

With swift brewing, grind customization, and mobile app connectivity for drink personalization, the Café Affetto Automatic Espresso Machine is a versatile and compact option perfect for home or office. Its robust extraction and features produce consistent, high quality drinks. If you seek an automatic espresso maker that is fast, customizable, and space saving, the Café Affetto Automatic Espresso Machine C7CEBAS3RD3 is highly recommended.

Specifications:

• Dimensions: 12.5 x 7.25 x 13.75 inches
• Weight: 19 pounds
• Pressure: 20 bars
• Reservoir: 1.2 liters
• Bean Hopper: 180g
• Materials: Stainless steel
• Wattage: 1235 watts

Unboxing:

The Café Affetto Automatic Espresso Machine comes with the espresso machine unit, stainless steel portafilter, single and double shot filter baskets, 180g bean hopper, 1.2L water reservoir, measuring scoop, cleaning kit, and manual.
The cleaning kit includes a cleaning brush, a cleaning pin, a microfiber cleaning cloth, and cleaning solutions, making it easy for users to perform daily maintenance and deep cleaning of the espresso machine.

Café Affetto Automatic Espresso Machine: Quick Start Guide

Getting Started:

1. Fill the Water Tank: Remove the water tank from the back, fill it with cold water, and reinsert it.
2. Fill the Bean Hopper: Lift the lid on top, pour in your favorite espresso beans, and close it securely.
3. Power On and Rinse: Plug in the machine and press the power button. The machine will automatically rinse.
4. Choose Your Drink: Select Espresso, Americano, Lungo, My Cup, or Hot Water.
5. Brew and Enjoy: Place your cup under the spout and press the chosen button. Your drink will be ready in less than 90 seconds.

Customizing Your Brew:

• Grind Size: Adjust the grind size dial while the grinder is running. Smaller grind for stronger coffee, larger grind for milder.
• SmartHQ App: Connect to the SmartHQ app to personalize drink strength, volume, and save your favorite recipes.

Cleaning and Maintenance:

• Empty Drip Tray and Disposal Box: Regularly empty and rinse the drip tray and disposal box.
• Clean the Coffee Brewer: Remove the service door, take out the brewer, and rinse it with warm water.
• Descale Regularly: Follow the descaling instructions in the owner’s manual to keep your machine in top condition.

Tips:

• Use fresh, cold water for the best flavor.
• Preheat your cup with hot water before brewing.
• Experiment with different grind sizes to find your perfect taste.
• For milk drinks, use the steam wand to froth milk.

Enjoy your Café Affetto experience!

Café Affetto Automatic Espresso Machine Recipe Suggestions:

Cappuccino:

• 1 shot of espresso (30 ml)
• 1 part steamed milk (30 ml)
• 1 part milk foam (30 ml)

Pour espresso into a cup, then add steamed milk. Top with a thick layer of milk foam.

Latte:

• 1 shot of espresso (30 ml)
• 2 parts steamed milk (60 ml)
• A small amount of milk foam (10 ml)

Pour espresso into a cup, then add steamed milk. Top with a thin layer of milk foam.

Note:

• You can adjust the ratio of coffee, milk, and foam according to your personal taste.
• Use the SmartHQ app to further customize your drink.

Feel free to experiment with different coffee beans and milk types to create your own unique flavors.