Krups XP5240 Pump Espresso Machine with Precise Tamp System Review

We tried a Breville before this Krups machine.We were looking to replace a 20 year old Krups steam driven machine which we also loved.This machine is worth the extra $100 we paid over what we would have spent for the Breville.We purchased from a local store.We paid more but liked the convenience of returning the unit if we did not like it.This Krups machine has some really nice features.It has this "auto tamping" feature that is really nice.The espresso holder is only one unit and you add more or less espresso depending on whether you want a single shot or a double.It has a ratchet system that tamps the grind down and an indicator on the unit determines whether you are compressing for a double or single shot.If you want a single shot you add less and tighten further to the right to match up with the indicator.It is very easy to get used to and eliminates the need for an extra "reducer" part to deal with single shots.The "creama" is there but not exactly thick and not something we care that much about.The unit is easy to clean. The only negative is they supply a rather gimicky measuring scoop and if you use the amount they recommend it comes out too weak and not consistent with the indicator marks on the unit.So we just add more espresso and use a spoon rather than the scoop.We also purchased a nice frothing container from William Sonoma for $15. to replace the container supplied with our old Krups machine.We like this frothing pitcher much better as it has ample supply so the froth does not keep overflowing.This also allows us to get the milk to a much higher temperature.We warm up the mugs in the microwave before we brew and this helps us get a piping hot latte.I have to admit this pump driven machine has some really nice features and the taste is better than the old Krups we had grown to love (no ashy taste whatsoever)... My husband and I both look forward to waking up and having our lattes from this machine every morning.Now if only this one would last another 20 years!Look for my follow-up reviews.One more thing.We also decided to use whole milk for our lattes since the amount of milk we add to get the taste we love is not very much.The extra enjoyment with whole milk is worth it to us!

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Product Description:
Inspired by experts and demanding consumers with uncompromising standards of performance and quality, krups products have been built with three key attributes in mind: passion, precision and perfection. Be you own barista with krups' xp5240 precise tamp espresso machine. The precise tamp system extracts a perfect cup every time for a delicious espresso, latte or cappuccino. The 1400w thermo block system pre-heats twice as fast and is resistant to lime scale buildup. Fail-proof tamp system can be set for one or two cups, and universal filter holds ground coffee, ese or soft pods. Clean up is simple thanks to a new easy- clean froth nozzle and no-mess filter cake ejection system.

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Krups XP4030 Pump Espresso Machine, Black Review

After making cappuccino on steam type espresso makers daily for the past 12 years, I thought it was time to upgrade to a pump model. I researched pump types and decided on this model. Wow! What a difference! The espresso first comes out as a creamy light brown froth which then clarifies into a rich darker brown color within a minute. What a difference in taste! We use pure Kona and the taste is softer and smoother than we're used to. In the week I've used it, I haven't yet mastered the froth on this unit, but it's getting better and is probably a learning curve on my behalf.

Some pointers and caveats need to be mentioned up front for optimum performance and eyes wide open purchase:

1) This model is heavier & noisier than steam models
2) No decanter is included. I use a Pyrex measuring cup if making two servings. About 1/3 cup per espresso serving.
3) You must manually turn off the espresso control after the desired quantity is made, hence the measurement of 1/3 cup per serving
4) The water tank is removable--a nice touch. If it is not reseated properly, you will hear a very loud continuous noise as the unit tries to suck out water it cannot obtain. This is just a learner's tip.
5) While the water reservoir is massive, you can only make one or two servings at a time, unless the espresso is diluted. Making more is only a matter of placing the unit in standby, removing the grounds, refilling with fresh grounds and continuing the process again.
6) Always wait for the thump thump noises of the pump to stop before proceeding to the next step. This is usually a matter of several seconds, just don't be impatient!
7) Whenever crafting the froth, you must wait for the orange light to go out before proceeding. This is like waiting for the oven to reach appropriate temperature.
8) Alternatively, you cannot go straight from froth to espresso without first placing the unit in standby for a cooldown cycle. The pump will cycle for about 10 seconds. When it stops, you can proceed. This is only a cool down period.
9) For making espresso only, this unit is FAST!!
10) I am well over the age of 13!

With the above in mind, I hope you take the plunge. The price is right and the difference in taste is remarkable. If you're thinking of upgrading your steam espresso maker, go for it! The Holidaze are just around the corner!

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Product Description:
Passion. Precision. Perfection. The Krups heritage of German engineered coffee machines and food preparation appliances provides clear functional, rigorous design at the highest level of technical perfection, performance and quality. Working with leading European designers, the product series also represents the newest European designs yet maintains the rigorous and clearly functional characteristics synonymous with Krups products. Designed and built for those who continuously seek out new gourmet experiences and take pleasure in discovering and understanding how things are done well, the Krups range provides the tools that deliver genuine results, performance and taste. Inspired by experts and demanding consumers with uncompromising standards of performance, the new Krups series has been built with three key attributes in mind: Passion, Precision and Perfection. Specifically designed for easy operation, the Krups XP4030 is a 15 bar pump espresso machine. It is virtually "fool proof" and is equipped with a patented "Perfect Froth System" which makes the process of steamingand frothing milk for cappuccino or latte simple.It has a high convenience filter holder that accepts ground coffee for 1 or 2 servings of espresso as well as ESE Pods.The auto cappuccino system precisely combines the right amount of steam and air to easily froth milk.

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