Capresso 303.01 4-Cup Espresso and Cappuccino Machine Black 13.25" x 7.5" x 9.75"

First things first: HOW DO DRINKS MADE BY THE CAPRESSO MACHINE TASTE?In a word - EXCELLENT! And I am a tough critic, having worked as a barista in two upscale cafe's. Of course, any espresso drink is only as good as the beans, roast, and grind... but there are a few other entry-level capuccino machines I have used that produced an inferior espresso (taste and crema) in comparison to this surprisingly affordable unit. It does, however, take a bit of finesse to get the brew and foam just right. I think many of the more critical reviews may be coming from people who have never before made espresso or foamed milk, and who also didn't take the time to read the directions or google any problems or questions that came up. Take a bit of time to learn the machine and to try different techniques and you will be happy with the result.READ THE DIRECTIONS. (Duh.) This machine works by building up high-pressured steam. Incorrect operation can potentially be dangerous. That said, it is easy enough to operate safely. Don't overload the water chamber, don't allow the steam to build for more than a few minutes at a time without brewing or foaming, and DO NOT LEAVE MACHINE ON & UNATTENDED. There... Now you are safe. :-DThe machine is very sturdy, easy to clean, and it should last a long time with correct operation.The only negative that comes to mind is the slight difficulty of frothing milk with the attached steaming arm. Surprisingly, the frothing wand works better without the rubber attachment (which is supposed to help create froth, but really doesn't). A little trial and error quickly yields a satisfactory foam. The same is true of achieving optimal crema on the espresso. Experiment a bit with different grinds and with allowing the machine to build up a bit more steam before brewing, and you should be able to achieve cafe quality drinks on your own. Just think of all the money you will save! Those savings alone mean this machine pays for itself in no time at all. Time and money well-spent!An excellent non-commercial machine for entry-level home use!

I had developed quite a McDonald's habit, stopping almost daily for their nonfat lattes with sugar free syrup. I have a coffee maker at home, but prefer the richer, darker coffee in espresso.I bought this machine after reading all the reviews and am not at all disappointed.In summary:~ the instructions are easy to follow, and like other reviewers advised I read them before brewing my first cup. Very helpful, and I didn't hurt myself and managed to make a great cup of espresso.~ I tried to make a latte with the black nozzle on the frother the first time, and I agree with others that this will take practice. I ended up with a little cooler coffee than I prefer because I didn't steam it long enough. The second time, I tried without the black nozzle, and I really don't understand the other reviews that say to remove it because you don't need it. Halfway through, I ended up putting it back on and things went much smoother. So bottom line - leave the black nozzle on, and don't worry if it takes some practice until you get your milk/froth right.~ I was unclear on what to do with the water still in the machine - the instructions tell you to put in a full pot of water, but I was only making 2 cups of espresso, leaving a lot of water in the machine. What I finally did was, after making my latte, was let the balance of the water run through into the pot, making a very weak espresso (because I had put less coffee in the filter.) You could easily drink that, as long as you understand it won't be as flavorful as you're used to. There was a lot of steam, but I don't see any problem that arises from that, just be warned.In short, this is a great machine for the money, and will save me a lot of money in the long run. It is easy to use, and you can have a great latte or cappuccino in less than 5 minutes.

Having never owned an espresso machine before I really didn't know what to expect. This machine is PERFECT for the novice. I made sure I ordered a tamper, steamer cup, espresso cups, and espresso book with this. I found I didn't need to order the metal tamper or espresso cups. This unit is very easy to use and easy to clean. It comes with a plastic scoop/tamper and that is more than adequate to tamp the espresso grounds. I find that if I use the metal tamper that I compress the grind too much causing a very slow drip so I don't pack the coffee too tight any longer. The only thing you should order right away with this is the steamer cup for the milk.Contrary to what other reviewers mention about the rubber steamer tip I have had no problems with it and can easily create regular and micro foam using the steamer head. The only thing I notice is that, due to the heat, that the calcium from the milk builds up on the outside of the metal wand like a crust but that is more a cosmetic thing rather than a major problem.I love the fact that this machine was easy to use, for a first timer, straight out of the box. If you are buying espresso from cafes at about 5 bucks a pop this machine will easily pay for itself by the 14th drink. I mentioned 20 above for those who spend less on their espressos. The build quality is solid and the coffee holder seals tight easily and removes easily. This machine is excellent for the newbie and is sturdy enough for someone who drinks espresso regularly. I'm very glad I made this purchase and I'm sure you will be too due to the reasonable price, sturdy construction, ease of use, and the great espresso this machine makes. Even if I become a connoisseur of espresso I would replace this machine with the same machine if this broke down as I am totally satisfied with this purchase. I am very glad I decided to buy this inexpensive machine.As an addition to this review I really have to question the person who gave the review that the espresso wasn't hot. How can that possibly be? The espresso is made by steam being forced through the espresso. Boiling water creates steam. How can your espresso not be hot? That review about espresso not being hot is either bogus or the person making it is not being truthful.