JASSY JS-201 20 Bar Small Espresso Machine - Compact and Convenient Home Brewing

Published on Sept. 4, 2023, 7:49 p.m.

Italian espresso, a jewel in coffee culture, is renowned for its rich aroma, mellow taste, and unique brewing process. In the early 20th century, Italians invented the espresso machine, using high-pressure steam to quickly extract coffee powder, thus creating this intense and layered coffee beverage. Today, Italian espresso has become a favorite among coffee lovers worldwide, whether it’s a cup to refresh in the morning or a leisurely treat in the afternoon, espresso can add a touch of ritual and taste to life.

JASSY JS-201 20 Bar Small Espresso Machine - Compact and Convenient Home Brewing

The JASSY JS-201 is a compact and convenient single-serve espresso maker designed for use with Nespresso Original capsules, Dolce Gusto pods, and ground coffee. With a 20 bar pressure system, versatile capsule compatibility, and one-touch operation, this budget-friendly machine aims to bring café-style brewing into your home. But does it deliver quality espresso without compromise? Read on for a detailed review of the JASSY JS-201 20 Bar Small Espresso Machine’s features, performance, and overall value.

 JASSY JS-201 Small Espresso Machine

Overview of the JASSY JS-201

The JASSY JS-201 is a compact and versatile espresso machine designed for those who crave the convenience of capsule coffee without compromising on quality. Its standout feature is its compatibility with three different capsule systems: Nespresso Original, Dolce Gusto, and even ground coffee powder. This makes it a versatile choice for households with diverse coffee preferences.

The machine boasts a sleek and minimalist design that won’t clutter your countertop. It’s also equipped with a 20 bar high-pressure system, a fast heating system, and one-touch operation, making it incredibly easy to use.

Design and Appearance

The JASSY JS-201 20 Bar Small Espresso Machine has an understated, no frills design appropriate for any kitchen aesthetic. Its compact footprint and rounded edges give it a minimal, modern look. The black plastic housing feels sturdy, while the stainless steel accents add a touch of sleekness.

The control panel is cleanly laid out with two brew buttons, power switch, and indicator lights. Overall the machine looks and feels well-built for the price. The water tank lid and drip tray are transparent, allowing for easy monitoring of water levels and used capsules.

Ease of Use

Using the JASSY JS-201 20 Bar Small Espresso Machine is simple and straightforward. To brew Nespresso or Dolce Gusto pods:

  1. Fill water tank
  2. Insert pod holder
  3. Place pod and close lever
  4. Press espresso or lungo button
  5. After locking the portafilter in place, press the espresso or lungo button to start brewing.

For ground coffee, replace the capsule holder with the portafilter. Add coffee grounds, tamp, then lock the portafilter into the group head and press brew.

The removable drip tray, capsule container, and water tank make cleanup easy. Used capsules are automatically ejected into the holding bin after brewing.

Brew Quality

Despite its budget-friendly price, the JASSY JS-201 doesn’t compromise on brew quality. It excels at extracting the rich flavors and aromas locked within Nespresso Original capsules, delivering a taste experience that rivals high-end machines. The 20-bar pressure system ensures optimal extraction, resulting in a full-bodied espresso with a thick, velvety crema—a hallmark of quality espresso.

The machine’s versatility shines through its compatibility with Dolce Gusto pods, offering a wider range of flavor options for those who prefer a milder or flavored coffee. For coffee aficionados who enjoy experimenting with different beans, the JASSY JS-201 accommodates ground coffee, allowing you to fine-tune your brew to perfection.

While the JASSY JS-201 consistently delivers impressive results, it’s important to note that the brew temperature might decrease slightly after brewing multiple shots in quick succession. This is a common characteristic of many single-serve espresso machines. However, you can easily mitigate this by preheating the portafilter with a blank shot before brewing. Additionally, using filtered water and regularly descaling the machine will help maintain consistent brewing temperatures and ensure optimal flavor extraction for every cup.

Versatile 3-in-1 Compatibility: The Coffee Lover’s Dream

The JASSY JS-201’s 3-in-1 compatibility is a game-changer. It’s like having three coffee machines in one!

Nespresso Original Capsules:

Nespresso is a household name in the world of capsule coffee, known for its wide range of flavors and consistent quality. The JASSY JS-201 is fully compatible with Nespresso Original capsules, giving you access to a vast selection of coffee varieties.

Dolce Gusto Capsules:

Dolce Gusto capsules offer a different experience, with a focus on specialty coffee drinks like lattes, cappuccinos, and even hot chocolate. The JASSY JS-201’s compatibility with Dolce Gusto capsules opens up a world of possibilities beyond espresso.

Ground Coffee Powder:

For those who prefer the ritual of grinding their own beans, the JASSY JS-201 also accommodates ground coffee powder. This gives you the ultimate flexibility to experiment with different coffee beans and roasts.

The Benefits of Versatility:

  • Choice: You’re not locked into a single capsule system, giving you the freedom to explore different coffee options.
  • Convenience: Switch between capsules or use ground coffee depending on your mood or occasion.
  • Cost-Effectiveness: Choose from a variety of capsules at different price points to suit your budget.

One-Touch Programmable Brewing: Espresso Made Easy

The JASSY JS-201 takes the complexity out of brewing espresso with its one-touch programmable brewing.

How it Works:

Simply insert your chosen capsule or ground coffee, select your desired brew size (espresso or lungo), and press the button. The machine takes care of the rest, delivering a perfectly brewed cup of coffee in seconds.

The Benefits:

  • Simplicity: No need to worry about water temperature, extraction time, or other variables.
  • Consistency: The machine delivers consistent results every time, so you can enjoy the same great coffee every morning.
  • Speed: Get your coffee fix quickly and easily, even on busy mornings.

Brewing Technology: The Heart of JASSY JS-201

The JASSY JS-201 20 Bar Small Espresso Machine is equipped with a powerful 1500W Thermoblock heating system. This system rapidly heats the water to the optimal brewing temperature of 197°F (92°C) in just 15 seconds. This ensures that every espresso shot is brewed at the ideal temperature for maximum flavor extraction. The machine also boasts a 20-bar high-pressure pump, a professional-grade feature that delivers the necessary force to extract rich, flavorful espresso with a thick, velvety crema.

20 Bar High-Pressure System: The Barista’s Secret

The JASSY JS-201’s 20 bar pressure system is its crowning glory. But what does “20 bar” actually mean, and why is it so crucial for a great espresso?

Understanding Bar Pressure:

In the world of espresso, “bar” is a unit of pressure. One bar is roughly equivalent to the atmospheric pressure at sea level. So, a 20 bar espresso machine exerts 20 times the atmospheric pressure on the water as it passes through the coffee grounds.

Why 20 Bar Matters:

This high pressure is essential for extracting the full range of flavors and aromas from the coffee grounds. It forces the hot water through the tightly packed grounds, creating the rich, concentrated brew we know as espresso. The high pressure also emulsifies the coffee oils, creating the thick, creamy layer of crema that sits atop a well-made espresso.

The JASSY JS-201’s Advantage:

With its 20 bar pressure system, the JASSY JS-201 delivers espresso that rivals what you’d get from a professional machine at a coffee shop. You’ll experience the full-bodied flavor, intense aroma, and velvety crema that define a perfect espresso.

Fast & Efficient Brewing: No More Waiting

The JASSY JS-201 is designed for speed and efficiency. It heats up in just 15 seconds, so you can go from craving coffee to enjoying it in no time.

The Technology:

The machine uses a powerful 1450-watt heating element to reach the optimal brewing temperature quickly. This means you don’t have to wait around for your coffee, even on busy mornings.

The Benefits:

  • Time-Saving: Get your coffee fix in seconds, perfect for those rushed mornings.
  • Energy-Efficient: The fast heating system helps save energy compared to machines that take longer to heat up.
  • Convenience: No more waiting around for your coffee to brew.

Removable Water Tank: Convenience at its Best

The JASSY JS-201 features a removable water tank, a seemingly small detail that makes a big difference in everyday use.

Why Removable is Better:

A removable water tank offers several advantages over a fixed one:

  • Easy Refilling: You can simply detach the tank and take it to the sink for refilling, eliminating the need for awkward pouring or maneuvering.
  • Thorough Cleaning: A removable tank can be easily washed and rinsed, ensuring hygiene and preventing any buildup of minerals or residue.
  • Convenience: If you need to descale your machine, a removable tank makes the process much simpler.

The JASSY JS-201’s Tank:

The machine’s water tank has a 20 oz capacity, which is enough for several cups of coffee before needing a refill. While this might require more frequent refills compared to machines with larger tanks, the convenience of the removable design outweighs this minor inconvenience for many users.

Auto Shut-Off: Energy Efficiency and Peace of Mind

In today’s world, energy efficiency is a key consideration for many appliances, and the JASSY JS-201 does its part with its auto shut-off feature.

How it Works:

The machine is programmed to automatically turn off after a certain period of inactivity. This not only saves energy but also provides peace of mind, especially if you’re the forgetful type who tends to leave appliances on.

The Benefits:

  • Energy Savings: Reduces energy consumption by automatically turning off when not in use.
  • Safety: Prevents potential hazards by ensuring the machine doesn’t stay on unnecessarily.
  • Peace of Mind: No more worrying about whether you left the coffee machine on.

Adjustable Drip Tray: Accommodating Various Cup Sizes

The JASSY JS-201 features an adjustable drip tray that can be moved up or down to accommodate cups of different heights. This thoughtful design ensures that you can use your favorite espresso cups, mugs, or even travel tumblers without worrying about spills or splashes.

Included Adapters: Versatility Made Simple

The JASSY JS-201’s 3-in-1 compatibility is further enhanced by the inclusion of adapters for each capsule system and ground coffee.

What’s Included:

The machine comes with three adapters:

  • Nespresso Original Adapter: Allows you to use Nespresso Original capsules.
  • Dolce Gusto Adapter: Enables compatibility with Dolce Gusto capsules.
  • Coffee Powder Adapter: Lets you use ground coffee powder.

The Benefits:

  • Convenience: No need to purchase additional adapters separately.
  • Seamless Transition: Easily switch between different capsule systems or ground coffee.
  • Value: Adds to the overall value proposition of the machine.

Noise

Some users have noted that the pump can be a bit noisy during operation, but this is to be expected with most espresso machines that utilize a pump system. The noise level is comparable to other models in its class and shouldn’t be a major concern unless you’re brewing in a noise-sensitive environment.

Power

The JASSY JS-201 20 Bar Small Espresso Machine contains a 1450W power system to heat the boiler rapidly. It plugs into a standard electrical outlet. There is no battery option. The wattage is adequate for quick heat up times and consistent brewing.

 JASSY JS-201 Small Espresso Machine

Cleaning and Maintenance: Keeping It Fresh

Thankfully, cleaning and maintenance are straightforward on the JASSY JS-201 20 Bar Small Espresso Machine. Used pods are automatically ejected into a holding bin after brewing. The drip tray, pod containers, water reservoir, and portafilter are all removable and dishwasher safe. Rinsing under hot water keeps components clean.It is recommended to descale the machine every 2-3 months to maintain optimal performance.

Use Cases:

The JASSY JS-201 20 Bar Small Espresso Machine is ideal for espresso drinkers who want the convenience of single serve capsule brewing at home. It’s great for small households or solo use. The compact size makes it easy to keep on a kitchen counter for daily brewing or move to different rooms as needed. It’s also convenient for offices, dorm rooms, RVs, or other small spaces.
This espresso machine is also a good choice for users who enjoy Nespresso or Dolce Gusto capsule coffee but also want to try using their own ground coffee beans.

User Feedback Analysis

With a 3.9 out of 5 star rating based on 10 global customer reviews, the JASSY JS-201 20 Bar Small Espresso Machine receives mostly positive feedback, but there are some dissatisfied customers reporting issues.

Examining the reviews, 56% of users gave 5 stars, praising the machine for making “excellent,” “strong” espresso with “very good quality.” First-time owners seem pleasantly surprised by the rich, intense espresso extracted by the 20 bar pressure system. Experienced espresso drinkers validate that the machine “brews just like a pro” model despite the budget price.

22% of customers, however, rated only 1 star. Their chief complaint is the machine leaking water or coffee onto the counter during use. They describe the leaking as happening consistently even when the capsules are inserted properly. A common sentiment is that the product seems poorly constructed or defective.

The remaining reviews rate 4 stars and mention the JASSY JS-201 20 Bar Small Espresso Machine makes a “good cup of coffee” but don’t provide extensive details. It seems the machine performs very well if it doesn’t leak. When functioning normally, it exceeds expectations for affordability and compact size. But flaws in workmanship may compromise the brewing experience.

In conclusion, customers satisfied with their purchase are wowed by the impressive pressure extraction from such an affordable, single-serve device. Yet a concerning fraction of users experience messy leaking indicating inconsistent build quality. Interested buyers should be aware of this potential drawback.

Value

Priced at around $140, the JASSY offers excellent value for an entry-level home espresso machine. Features like the 20 bar pump, rapid heating, and pod compatibility rival more expensive models. Considereing it can use Nespresso, Dolce Gusto, and your own ground coffee, the machine provides versatility not always found at this price point. For the quality and convenience it delivers, the JASSY is a budget-friendly option worth the investment for personal espresso enjoyment.

 JASSY JS-201 Small Espresso Machine

Verdict

For its bargain price, the JASSY JS-201 20 Bar Small Espresso Machine punches above its weight in performance and features. The option to use Nespresso, Dolce Gusto, or ground coffee gives you flexibility to find the flavor profile you love. While not perfect, it brews surprisingly good espresso for an entry-level machine. The JASSY is recommended for beginners looking for an affordable, no-fuss introduction to quality home espresso.
However, considering the water leakage problem reported by some users, please consider carefully before purchasing. If you have high requirements for coffee quality, have a sufficient budget, and want to avoid potential quality problems, you may need to consider other more reliable brands.