Krups XP7260 Compact Fully Automatic Espresso Machine with Auto Cappuccino Kit Review

UPDATE - After previously giving this machine 4 stars, I am forced to reduce my rating to 1 star.It appears I've received a "lemon" as I've now had the machine break 3 times.I'm very frustrated because for all of the resasons I list below, I want to love the machine.However, during time I've had the machine, It's only briefly worked before needing to be retured for service. The machine comes with a one-year VIP service which is great since the online company I purchased it from only had a 30-day return policy.Unfortunately, in the four months I've had the machine it's been broken or out for repair for a majority of that time.Please respond to this review if you've had success getting your machine to work without sending back for repair.

Attention Buyers! - I would not buy this machine - the frustration of having it break three times is not worth your time or money. Learn from my mistake and look for a different brand and make sure to purchase from a store that has a return period of longer than 30 days.

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This was no small purchase for me.I've researched and waited for about 1 year before committing to this machine.The price dropped by about 40% from one of the Amazon online retailers and there was free shipping so I jumped at the chance.I've had the XP 7260 for about 1 week now and I mostly love this machine.When I first got the machine I spent an hour or so reviewing the instruction manual before I turned on the machine which helped me to realize a couple important tips (for most all auto-espresso machines).1 - you have to use very cold l% or 2% milk for best froth/foam and 2 - you should use non-oily beans. Also, I expected to get coffee shop quality from the first cup of expresso but have quickly realized that I haven't learned the proportions of espresso to water (for Americano) or milk (for latte & cappucino).I wish more than two recipes were included for first time users.

Pros:
Stunning appearance
Auto frothing attachment works excellent(if you use cold 1% or 2% milk)
Great tasting coffee/espresso
Doesn't take up too much room on the counter

Cons:
The biggest CON is that there is NO pre-ground coffee funnel - I big disappointment - no decaf drinks at night.
The Amazon description mentions that this machine is compatible with ground coffee but it's NOT!
Noisy!Similar to turning on a blener full of ice.The noise is short-lived so it's bearable.
Not enough recipes for basic coffee drinks - I have yet to perfect the Americano. Web blogs are all over the place regarding recipes.
Frequently filling the water container - not a big deal but if you have cabinets above your counter you have the pull the machine out far enough to access the water container.
Espresso cups, manual frothing pitcher, and coffee not included (auto pitcher is included). Plan to spend another $50 on these items before making your first cup of espresso.
Maintenance costs could be about $100 per year for water filter replacements and cleaning tablets.
Water filter and cleaning tablets are not easily available so I will have to purchase online.

I know, this sounds like a long list.I have a feeling many other espresso machines have similar cons so I wouldn't consider any of these a deal-breaker.

Overall an excellent machine but I really wish there was a pre-ground coffee funnel so that we could enjoy decaf expresso drinks at night.

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Product Description:
Brew cafe-quality coffee drinks right at home with this easy-to-use fully automatic espresso machine. Simply add water and espresso beans, select the type of beverage and amount desired, and press the button--it takes care of the rest. The appliance grinds, brews, and tamps, then dispenses used grounds into a collection container. An oversized digital display and intuitive controls make it effortless to scroll through the on-screen menu and to follow detailed instructions for everything from set-up to brewing perfect espresso. In addition, the unit's commercial-quality built-in conical burr grinder holds up to 28 ounces of whole beans and comes calibrated to three optimal grind levels. Use the pre-ground bypass doser for pre-ground decaffeinated or flavored coffee--a handy feature when entertaining.
For added convenience, the espresso machine's innovative design combines the thermoblock brewing system and hydraulic jack into a single piece, which means an overall smaller build that takes up less space on the countertop. In fact, it's 30- to 50-percent smaller than most fully automatics available. The completely redesigned thermoblock comes cast in aluminum with stainless-steel tubing for precise control of the water and temperature and optimal heat transfer while reducing scaling and build-up of mineral deposits. Other highlights include a 64-ounce water tank, hot water on demand, and a steam function for cappuccinos and lattes. A patented auto-cappuccino system for foolproof milk frothing comes included. The 1450-watt espresso machine measures 12-1/2 by 9-1/2 by 14-1/4 inches and carries a one-year warranty.

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