Love coffee, but you're tired of brewing it on the stove or drinking instant coffee. There is a solution, carob-type coffee makers will make your life easier, brew the drink for you, and also give you the opportunity to get different coffee drinks: latte, cappuccino and others. There are many models of coffee machines on the kitchen appliances market. Here you should approach the choice thoroughly. This is where I hope this review will help you. We will try to talk about the best models, give their characteristics, and even give customer reviews. Read and decide what and where to buy.
But what about the advantages? They are!
The filter is implemented on the double bottom principle. Like DeLonghi. But the cream produces more foam.
Of course, there are also advantages. In addition to the outstanding size and nice design that I noted at the beginning of the review, it is necessary to note the cream filters. They are completely metal, steel, implemented according to the double-day principle, like Delonghi’s. So you don’t have to worry about the beautiful foam on your cup of espresso. Moreover, despite the similar design, Krups makes foam-cream noticeably better than DeLonghi (although one must understand that this is rather an external imitation).
The operating speed described above. If Delonghi just turns on quickly, then Krups also cools down quickly after supplying steam.
Minimum vibrations and noise (as far as possible). Krups are noticeably better noise and vibration insulated. Of course, the vibration pump will still wake up a relative sleeping on the sofa in the kitchen, but you don’t have to worry about the inhabitants in the neighboring rooms - it’s clearly quieter than the Saeco Poemia/Gaggia Viva or the Delonghi ECP series. Perhaps even a little quieter than its main competitor, the Delonghi EC685 (or at least at the same level; it was not possible to measure their volume at the same time).
What to look for when buying a carob coffee maker
- The material from which the horn is made can be metal or plastic. A metal horn will allow you to achieve high-quality and delicate foam, and will also significantly speed up the cooking process.
- Number of servings that can be made at once.
- Water reservoir. It is better to choose coffee makers with a removable tank, this will significantly simplify its maintenance.
- A definite plus is the ability to prepare several drink options: espresso/cappuccino/latte
- Possibility of using coffee in dosed packages (pods).
- A variety of additional functions, such as: a removable tray, a bifurcated nozzle, automatic coffee dosing, automatic shutdown.
Cappuccino maker (for some - a plus, for others - a minus)
Separately, it is worth noting the cappuccino maker. This is not a classic panarello, but a metal tube with a special hexagonal “valve” at the end. This is a more professional cappuccino maker like those found on commercial machines.
It is mounted on a convenient hinge, allowing you to position it at almost any desired angle. It rotates 360 degrees, but... If the body interferes, then it actually turns out to be about 280°. This design allows you to whip up good milk foam. But it's a little more complicated.
Yes, such a paradox. That is, this is a tool for “advanced” people; in skillful hands it gives more opportunities. But for the very beginner, on the contrary, it can cause problems.
With the proper skill, the Krupsovsky cappuccino maker can produce finely dispersed foam 3 times larger in volume than the initially poured milk.
By the way, such a cappuccino maker is usually easier to clean/clean. When used correctly, only the bottom head becomes covered with milk. By the way, you can unscrew it (either by hand or with the key built into the measuring spoon) and rinse thoroughly every few days.
History of Krups[ | ]
- 1846 - establishment of the Krups company in Wald; Robert Krups creates an industrial enterprise based on the forge of his uncle Joshua Kortz; The company produces spring scales.
- 1866 - production moves to Solingen, export of Krups products to Holland and Switzerland begins.
- 1920 - Krups becomes the largest manufacturer of utility scales in Germany. The company employs about 110 people.
- 1951 - The company comes under the management of the third generation of the Krups family (Fritz Krups and Dr. Karl Kurner), the company employs only 30 people.
- 1956 - Krups begins producing its first coffee grinder.
- 1959 - Krups releases the 3Mix mixer
- 1961 - Krups releases the Onko electric coffee maker, which was later renamed the T8.
- 1964 - production consists of 5 factories, 4 of which are located in Germany, and 1 in Ireland. The enterprises employ 1,714 people.
- 1967 - Krups produces its first slicer.
- 1972 - Krups products appear on the North American market.
- 1975 – Krups employs 4,000 people. The company's turnover reaches 300 million German marks.
- 1983 - Krups begins producing the first espresso coffee maker. The company's product range is expanding to include steam engines, electronically programmable models and combined appliances.
- 1991 - Krups begins joint production with Nestle; The first Krups Espresso capsule system was released.
- 1991 - Moulinex acquires Krups.
- 1996 - the company celebrated its 150th anniversary.
- 2001 - Group SEB buys part of the shares of Moulinex, thanks to which Krups also became part of the group of companies.
- 2005 - Krups launches a new range of products created by designer Konstantin Grcic.
- 2009 — As a result of cooperation between Krups and Heineken, a patented BeerTender beer cooling, storage and bottling system was created
- 2010 - Krups and Nestle presented a new joint development - the Dolce Gusto beverage preparation system.
Other modifications and similar models:
Krups XP3410 – gray imported from Poland
Occasionally on Avito or in online stores you can find a modification of the Krups XP3410 for sale. This is a model for the Polish market without a cappuccino maker and completely in black. That is, you can only prepare espresso on it, but the controls have become even simpler - naturally, there are two buttons. I believe that, as in the case of the Philips HD8648/01, the savings are not worth it, the functionality is severely limited.
Since this model is not sold on the Russian market, there will be no guarantee in Russia.
Krups Calvi Latte XP3458 - new 2018/2019
She is also XP345810. This is a new modification, which, apparently, is designed to solve the problem of an overly professional cappuccino maker - it has an automatic cappuccino maker that froths the milk itself. In this case, you will still need to move the cup under the cappuccino maker on the right and manually turn on the milk foam supply. The appearance of the coffee maker has become a little simpler (black rather than silver “forehead”), the functionality from the point of view of black coffee has not changed.
Thus, due to the departure of the Delonghi EC850 from the market, this Krups Latte becomes the only model of carob coffee maker with an auto-cappuccino maker not from the Chinese (example: Vitek 1522). In principle, if it’s really difficult for you to froth milk manually (and on a cappuccino maker like the basic Calvi it’s more difficult than on a standard Naparello), then this is a completely workable option. Krups prepares espresso clearly better than the Chinese, and espresso is the basis for cappuccino. But you have to look at the price. It may be easier to buy a separate aerocino foam frother and save money, albeit at the expense of space in the kitchen.
Other articles for other markets
Like any other coffee machine manufacturer, Krups makes different items for different countries. For example, in the States an analogue of “our” XP344010 is sold under the code XP344C51. It differs only in its chrome “forehead”. A complete analogue is presented in the UK, but under the symbol XP344040. You may encounter these items when ordering from foreign online stores.
Carob coffee makers care
Unfortunately, most carob coffee makers do not have an automatic cleaning system, so users need to do the maintenance themselves.
Every day you must remember to wash the coffee maker after each use. Reused coffee is not permitted. Every month (once is enough) you need to clean the coffee horn from coffee oils; for this there are special coffee fat tablets. The tablet is placed in the horn and the water on the coffee maker is turned on; as soon as the water starts to drip, turn off the coffee maker, after a pause of 10-15 minutes, repeat the procedure several more times until we have passed 2-3 liters of water to eliminate the remaining product and deposits .
Similar models from Krups (XP 5xxx)
There are also older sisters of this coffee maker - models Krups XP 5220 and XP 5620 . They are made in a different form factor, not narrow, but rather square. Well, the cappuccino maker is already classic, with panarello.
Their main problem is that Krups has aggravated its dislike for tampers and used the innovative patented “Krups Tamping System” in these models.
This is implemented as follows. As you turn the horn to put it in place, it does not move horizontally, but rises steeply. As a result, according to the plans of Krups engineers, coffee should be tempered “in the shower” (“shower” is the upper filter at the outlet of the thermoblock and at the entrance to the horn, it can be seen when the horn is removed).
The disadvantage of this approach is that, firstly, it is impossible to properly compact the coffee in this way. And secondly, every time it is prepared, the “shower” gets dirty with ground coffee and must be cleaned very carefully. Of course, coffee particles end up on the shower in other carob-type coffee makers, but in the Krups XP 5220 and XP 5620 this takes on a catastrophic scale.
I won’t write more about the XP5220 and XP5620, since they are almost never sold in Russia, and the most important thing has already been written above.
In the photo - Krups XP 5220. With a sophisticated self-tempering system.
How to use
To prepare coffee, follow these steps:
- Preparing ground coffee. Some devices have a grinding function, but most often you will have to take care of grinding the grains in advance.
- Pour coffee powder into the cone. Compress it as tightly as possible.
- Place the horn in its place. Turn on the unit and wait for the drink to be prepared. Some devices are equipped with a cappuccino maker, a special straw for producing milk froth. Pour milk into the pinscher (container with milk), immerse the nose of the cappuccino maker in the liquid and whip until it becomes liquid foam.
- At the last stage of preparing the cappuccino, pour in the milk and add the foam on top.
Review summary (updated in 2018)
Due to price changes (see table below), the Krups Espresso Pompe Compact XP3440 has become on average cheaper than its main competitor, the Delonghi Dedica EC685. Plus, after a long-term test, numerous user complaints about leakage were refuted (again, this is just an imperceptible overflow of the drip tray).
In this regard, and I do not beg the disadvantages like the plastic group and high water consumption, I am forced to change my verdict. In 2018/2019, the purchase of this Krups may be justified if:
- It is significantly cheaper than Delonga 685 (I would consider buying it if the price difference is from 3000 rubles)
- Or you clearly understand that such a semi-professional steam crane is more convenient for you than a panarello on Delonghi. Or if you want to actually practice latte art and are willing to put in the time to practice.
- Or you often make several cappuccinos/lattes in a row.
In all other cases, I would still recommend the proven Dedika for purchase.
PS As for the new Krups Calvi Latte XP3458 with an auto-cappuccino maker, while it costs more than 20 thousand, it’s difficult for me to recommend it. Although there are no worthy competitors, 20 thousand for an entry-level cone, even if it froths milk itself, is still a lot. In principle, for this price you can buy a grain machine with an auto-cappuccinatore - Philips HD8654. For over 15, you can consider it.
Where to buy Krups XP3440 in Moscow and the regions - current prices:
TOP 7 best carob coffee makers for home
We present for your consideration:
- DeLonghi ECP33.21.W.
- Kitfort KT-722.
- DeLonghi Barista Pack ECKG6821.M.
- Vitek VT-1508.
- KitchenAid Artisan 5KES2102EAC.
- Scarlett SC-CM33015.
- Krups Espresso Pompe Compact XP345810.
Let us finally consider the selected models.
DeLonghi ECP33.21.W
The DeLonghi device has a white body with some metal elements. It will complement the bright kitchen interior optimally. There is no need to replenish the water reservoir for each serving; it has a decent volume, more than a liter. The model is controlled mechanically by rotating round elements. On the case next to the controls there are signs indicating which operating mode you choose. The device weighs 4 kg, which is a lot, but moving it to another place will not be difficult.
| Water volume, l | 1,1 |
| Power, W | 1050 |
| Dimensions, cm | 30,5×18,5×24 |
Price tag: from 6590 to 7500 rubles.
- 2 year warranty;
- two filter options;
- There is a compartment for accessories.
- not found.
Mom's dream finally came true, we bought a coffee maker. The head of our family spent the whole day experimenting with brewing coffee drinks. She let everyone try a little, wondering what everyone liked. Imagine our surprise the next morning when we all received different drinks, strictly according to our tastes. Even our baby received cocoa (the milk was boiled by a coffee machine). The family is happy, the mother is happy. We recommend purchasing.
DeLonghi ECP33.21.W
Kitfort KT-722
Using the Kitfort carob coffee maker, it is easy to prepare a delicate latte, invigorating espresso or cappuccino with foam. And each family member will choose exactly the drink that he likes best. A large reservoir of water is suitable for large families; the drink is prepared for all households at once. The device itself is made of excellent stainless steel, thanks to which the model will retain its excellent appearance throughout its service life.
| Power, W | 1050 |
| Dimensions, cm | 29,1×29,5×20,5 |
| Water volume, l | 1,5 |
Price: from 9590 to 10500 rubles.
- availability of steamer for coffee and milk drinks;
- removable metal horn and filter;
- You can use ground coffee.
- Cup height maximum 11 cm.
I'm delighted with the coffee machine. They gave me such a cool birthday present. There are countless types of drinks you can prepare. The instructions are excellent, clear and without frills. The model is small, quiet and fits perfectly into my kitchen style. I feel like a barista when I make a drink. There are no complaints about the time of use. I recommend it to everyone!
Kitfort KT-722
DeLonghi Barista Pack ECKG6821.M
The DeLonghi device is a coffee maker equipped with a pump that develops a pressure of 15 bar. This is quite enough to reveal the aroma and taste of the drink, preparing it from powders or pods. The device has two metal removable tanks: one for water; the second under the drops. The platform with the cup is equipped with a heating system and your drink will not cool down for a long time, even if you forget to pick it up and drink it right away. The control is modern electronic, the portion size and temperature of the drink are regulated. You will feel like a barista. The coffee maker includes: a tamper, a coffee grinder and a container for cake.
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| Power, W | 1350 |
| Water volume, l | 1 |
| Dimensions, cm | 30,5×14,9×33 |
Cost: from 29,990 to 31,000 rubles.
- availability of rapid steam and milk foaming systems;
- special “panarello” nozzle;
- The control buttons are backlit, convenient when there is insufficient lighting.
- not found.
I brew cappuccino in this model better than in coffee shops! The consistency is optimal, the foam is tasty and thick. I like using the pannarello attachment. I prepare a couple of cups at once. In terms of time, everything is fast, the coffee maker handles itself, it has a completely automatic process. I enjoy the drink I received and forgot when I bought coffee somewhere, I prepare it myself. I recommend it, I hope you like it too.
DeLonghi Barista Pack ECKG6821.M
Vitek VT-1508
The Vitek device is made in black and silver colors. There is a touch control on the front panel of the device. And one click is enough to select the type of drink you want to prepare. You can manually supply hot water, thereby independently adjusting the portion volume. The water barrel and drip tray are easily removable, making cleaning and maintenance of the device quick and time-consuming.
| Power, W | 850 |
| Dimensions, cm | 28×21×40 |
| Water volume, l | 1,6 |
Price: from 9990 to 12000 rubles.
- presence of cup heating;
- built-in automatic cappuccino maker.
- short power cord - 0.75 m:
- a little heavy (3.95 kg).
Carob coffee makers, in my opinion, are an excellent combination of price and functions. They brew a drink of excellent quality, consume coffee powder economically and quite quickly. The coffee turns out to be aromatic and, dare I say, delicious. The cup can be heated. In general, everything a coffee maker needs is included. In addition to coffee, I make hot chocolate and heat milk for the children, they are delighted. I recommend it.
Vitek VT-1508
KitchenAid Artisan 5KES2102EAC
A KitchenAid appliance will be in place in a stylish office or home. It has a professional brewing module that prepares coffee of excellent quality. The device has two autonomous boilers. One is designed to brew coffee, the second to get airy foam on a tasty and appetizing-looking latte or cappuccino. At the same time, the device can be used to boil water, which is suitable if you want to make cocoa, tea or baby formula. The design of the machine is excellent, and the beige color design is impressive. The model will not get lost anywhere.
| Dimensions, cm | 39×31×31 |
| Power, W | 1300 |
| Water volume, l | 2 |
Price tag: from 79,990 to 82,000 rubles.
- the presence of two boilers;
- the model contains a professional brewing module;
- There is a jug in which milk is frothed.
- by our standards, a very expensive device (from 80,000 rubles).
We took this unit to a small cafe. My husband and I have our own business. The coffee maker fit into the interior, and we were trying to find a stylish model. And in terms of functionality, I am 100 percent satisfied. It can easily make cappuccino, espresso, or latte, and you can’t imagine how delicious the foam is. The client didn’t take the cup right away, no problem, the model will warm up the drink. I would also like to note that the controls are convenient. Both my husband and I are happy, and seeing customers enjoying the drink, we praise ourselves for the purchase. I recommend.
KitchenAid Artisan 5KES2102EAC
Scarlett SC-CM33015
A coffee maker from the well-known manufacturer Scarlett will prepare coffee to suit your taste. A steam tube will help you create an airy, delicate foam, which will froth the milk poured into the drink. The position of the straw is adjustable and it will be convenient for the consumer to use containers of different sizes. The controls are mechanical, simple and intuitive. The design of the device is up to par, handsome, brutal black.
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| Power, W | 1500 |
| Water volume, l | 1 |
| Dimensions, cm | 27,5×19×22 |
Price: from 10,990 to 12,000 rubles.
- removable water tank;
- you can prepare two cups at once;
- auto shut-off function (15 min).
- It is recommended to descale the model every 2-3 months.
An excellent working unit. It worked for me and I didn’t have to figure out what to press and how. It's clear almost immediately. Mechanical control. The water reservoir and drip reservoir are simply removable and washable. The equipment was beautifully placed on the countertop, otherwise I was afraid that it would take up a lot of space. It's no wonder it's not such a big model. And the resulting drink is divine, the family is delighted. I recommend to buy.
Scarlett SC-CM33015
Krups Espresso Pompe Compact XP345810
The Krups coffee maker model uses an electronically controlled thermoblock. The thermoblock heats up within 40 seconds, and then stably maintains the pressure and temperature required by the recipe. Therefore, each serving of coffee will be aromatic and tasty. The mechanical regulator makes it possible to adjust both the volume of water and milk per serving.
| Water volume, l | 1 |
| Power, W | 1460 |
| Dimensions, cm | 28,6×31,5×14,5 |
Price tag: from 14,990 to 16,500 rubles.
- a steam nozzle is used to supply steam;
- Heating is carried out in advance for 40 seconds.
- cappuccino maker - manual.
I love freshly brewed coffee and I can’t help it. I looked at the devices for a long time, and chose this one. I’m probably old-fashioned, but mechanical control is more understandable to me and doesn’t cause fear. I enjoy every cup of drink obtained from the unit. I’ve been using it for over a year now, I have no complaints, I’m happy with the model’s performance. I recommend buying and brewing coffee to suit your taste.
Krups Espresso Pompe Compact XP345810
