The Philips 800 Series Fully Automatic Espresso Machine is an entry-level model designed for users who want a simple, affordable, and effective way to enjoy fresh, bean-to-cup coffee at home.
As part of Philips’ lineup of automatic espresso machines, the 800 series is crafted to deliver good-quality espresso and coffee with minimal effort. It’s perfect for those who want to dip their toes into the world of home espresso without spending a fortune or dealing with complicated features.
In this detailed review, we’ll cover the design, performance, features, and maintenance of the Philips 800 Series, while also delving into consumer feedback to see if this machine is a good fit for your coffee needs.
Design and Build Quality
The Philips 800 Series has a modest, functional design that prioritizes simplicity and usability. It comes in a matte black plastic body that’s lightweight and easy to move around, though it lacks the premium feel of more expensive machines that include metal accents. However, considering its price point, the design feels solid and durable enough for daily use without feeling flimsy.
Compact Size:
One of the standout features of the Philips 800 is its compact footprint, making it an excellent choice for small kitchens or countertops with limited space. Despite its small size, it includes a 1.8-liter water tank and a 250g bean hopper, both of which are sufficient for brewing multiple cups of coffee without constant refilling.
User Interface:
The control panel is basic but user-friendly, consisting of a set of buttons and icons for the different coffee drinks and features. While the machine doesn’t have a fancy touchscreen like some higher-end models, the button-based interface makes it easy to select your preferred coffee type without any fuss.
It’s simple, intuitive, and perfect for beginners or anyone who doesn’t want to spend too much time learning how to use an espresso machine.
Coffee Customization and Brewing Performance
The Philips 800 is designed to brew several basic coffee drinks, including espresso, cappuccino, coffee, and hot water for tea or other beverages. While it doesn’t have the extensive menu of drink options found in higher-end models, it covers all the essentials for most coffee drinkers. The simplicity of the machine means it can quickly brew a cup with minimal steps, which is ideal for users looking for convenience.
Ceramic Grinder:
Like other Philips machines, the Philips 800 includes a ceramic grinder, which offers five adjustable grind settings. This grinder helps ensure that the beans are ground fresh for each cup, preserving the flavor and aroma of the coffee.
Although it doesn’t offer the wide range of grind settings that more expensive machines have (such as the Philips 3200 or 3300, which offer 12 grind settings), the five available options provide enough flexibility for adjusting coffee strength.
Pre-ground Coffee Option:
For those who occasionally want to brew pre-ground coffee (perhaps for decaf or a special blend), the Philips 800 also includes a chute for pre-ground coffee, adding to its versatility.
Frothing System: Basic but Functional
The Philips 800 comes with a classic milk frother (Panarello steam wand), which allows users to froth milk manually for cappuccinos and lattes. While this system requires more effort than the fully automatic frothing systems found in higher-end models like the LatteGo (seen in the Philips 3200 and 3300), it offers more control over the frothing process. This is ideal for users who like to experiment with the texture of their milk and create latte art.
Frothing Performance:
The steam wand performs well for an entry-level machine, producing a good quality froth that’s rich enough for cappuccinos and smooth enough for lattes. However, it does require a bit of skill and practice to get the froth exactly how you want it, and it might not be as convenient for those who prefer the “one-touch” milk frothing systems of higher-end machines.
Cleaning the Steam Wand:
Cleaning the steam wand is relatively straightforward, though it does need to be wiped down after each use to remove milk residue. Regular cleaning is essential to keep the wand in good condition and to ensure it continues to froth milk effectively.
Ease of Use and Maintenance
One of the most appealing aspects of the Philips 800 Series is its ease of use. The machine is designed to be simple and straightforward, even for users who are new to automatic espresso machines. With its basic control panel and limited settings, there’s no steep learning curve, and most users can start brewing great coffee within minutes of setting it up.
Brew Group:
The Philips 800, like other Philips models, features a removable brew group, which is one of the most user-friendly aspects of the machine.
The brew group can be easily removed and rinsed under running water, ensuring that the most important part of the machine stays clean and free of coffee residue. This helps maintain the flavor of your coffee and extends the lifespan of the machine.
Cleaning and Descaling:
The machine performs automatic rinsing cycles when it’s turned on and off, helping to keep the internal components clean. The Philips 800 will also notify you when it’s time to descale, which is an important maintenance task to prevent mineral buildup from hard water. Using Philips’ AquaClean filter can reduce the frequency of descaling, though the 800 series doesn’t come with this filter by default—you would need to purchase it separately.
For users who prioritize ease of maintenance, the Philips 800 is a solid choice. Its automatic cleaning functions and the removable brew group make it much easier to maintain compared to manual espresso machines, and it requires less upkeep than more complex machines.
Coffee Quality and Brewing Experience
When it comes to brewing coffee, the Philips 800 delivers a consistent and satisfying cup. The 15-bar pressure pump ensures that the espresso is extracted with the right amount of pressure, resulting in a rich, flavorful shot with a good crema on top. While it may not match the quality of higher-end machines or professional espresso makers, it produces a cup that is more than adequate for most home users.
Customizable Coffee Strength and Volume:
The Philips 800 allows you to customize both the strength and volume of your coffee, though the range of options is more limited than on other Philips machines. You can adjust the coffee strength by choosing a finer or coarser grind, and you can select the cup size for larger or smaller drinks. While the lack of extensive customization options might be a downside for more serious coffee enthusiasts, it’s perfectly sufficient for the average user who wants a good, strong cup of coffee.
Consistency:
One of the most praised aspects of the Philips 800 is its consistency. Users have noted that the machine reliably produces high-quality coffee without the need for constant tweaking or adjustment. This makes it an ideal choice for users who want a hassle-free coffee experience without worrying about complex settings or calibration.
Price and Value for Money
The Philips 800 Series is positioned at the lower end of Philips’ automatic espresso machine lineup, with a typical price range of $400 to $500. This makes it one of the more affordable options for users looking for a fully automatic espresso machine that offers both bean-to-cup brewing and milk frothing capabilities.milk-frothing
For the price, the Philips 800 offers excellent value. It includes many of the features you’d expect from a fully automatic machine—such as a built-in grinder, customizable coffee settings, and automatic cleaning functions—without the premium price tag of higher-end models like the Philips 3300 or 5400.
While it lacks some of the more advanced features of those machines (such as a LatteGo frothing system or touchscreen display), it’s still a solid option for users who want a reliable, easy-to-use machine at an affordable price.
Customer Feedback: What Are Users Saying?
Positive Reviews:
Most users who have purchased the Philips 800 Series are happy with their decision, particularly praising its ease of use and reliable coffee quality. Many customers note that the machine is ideal for beginners or casual coffee drinkers who want to enjoy fresh espresso without the hassle of manual machines. The compact size and simple control panel are also frequently mentioned as positives, making the machine a good fit for small kitchens and those looking for a fuss-free coffee maker.
Criticisms:
On the downside, some users have pointed out that the limited grind settings and lack of advanced customization options might be disappointing for more experienced coffee enthusiasts. Additionally, while the manual steam wand is appreciated by some users for the control it provides, others have found it to be less convenient than fully automatic frothing systems.
Pros
- Affordable Price: The Philips 800 is one of the most budget-friendly fully automatic espresso machines available, typically priced between $400 to $500, offering excellent value for those seeking good coffee without premium prices.
- Compact Size: With its compact footprint, the Philips 800 fits well in smaller kitchens or on crowded countertops, without sacrificing a decent water tank (1.8 liters) or bean hopper (250g).
- Ease of Use: The button-based control panel is simple and intuitive, making it ideal for beginners who want to start brewing coffee without a steep learning curve.
- Removable Brew Group: The easily removable brew group simplifies cleaning and maintenance, ensuring the internal components stay in good condition and the coffee remains fresh.
- Manual Steam Wand: While manual, the Panarello steam wand gives users more control over frothing milk, perfect for creating customized milk textures for cappuccinos and lattes.
- Consistent Coffee Quality: The 15-bar pressure pump delivers consistently good espresso with a rich crema, and the machine’s performance remains reliable even after long-term use.
Cons
- Limited Coffee Customization: The Philips 800 offers fewer grind settings and customization options compared to higher-end models, which may be a downside for serious coffee enthusiasts looking for more control.
- No Fully Automatic Milk System: Unlike models with Philips’ LatteGo system, the Philips 800 requires manual frothing, which might not be as convenient for users who prefer one-touch cappuccinos or lattes.
- Basic Control Panel: While the button-based interface is simple to use, it lacks the modern appeal and advanced features of a touchscreen display, which is found in more premium models.
- Some Noise During Grinding: The ceramic grinder, while efficient, can be noisy during operation. While this is typical for machines in this category, it’s something to be aware of if you’re sensitive to noise.Who Should Buy the Philips 800?
- Beginners: If you’re new to fully automatic espresso machines and want something simple to operate, the Philips 800 is perfect.
- Budget-conscious users: If you’re looking for a bean-to-cup machine without the high price tag, the Philips 800 offers great value for money.
- Small kitchens: Its compact size makes it ideal for users with limited countertop space.
FAQs
1. Can I use pre-ground coffee with the Philips 800?
Yes, the Philips 800 includes a chute for pre-ground coffee, making it ideal for those who want to brew a quick cup of decaf or experiment with different coffee blends without swapping out the beans in the hopper.
2. How often does the Philips 800 need to be descaled?
The Philips 800 will alert you when it needs to be descaled, typically after several months of use. The frequency depends on how often you use the machine and the hardness of your water. Using the AquaClean filter (available separately) can extend the time between descaling, allowing you to brew up to 5,000 cups before descaling becomes necessary.
3. Is the steam wand difficult to use?
For beginners, the manual Panarello steam wand might take a bit of practice to master, but it’s relatively easy to use once you get the hang of it. The wand allows you to control the froth and temperature of the milk, giving you more flexibility for making cappuccinos and lattes. However, if you prefer fully automated frothing, this might feel more labor-intensive compared to higher-end models with automatic milk systems.
4. How many cups can I brew before refilling the water tank?
The 1.8-liter water tank allows you to brew approximately 8-10 cups of coffee before needing a refill, depending on the size of each cup. This is a decent capacity for small households or individuals who drink multiple cups throughout the day.
5. Does the Philips 800 have a touchscreen?
No, the Philips 800 uses a button-based control panel, which is simple and straightforward to use. While it lacks the more modern touchscreen interface of higher-end machines, the button system is intuitive and ensures an easy, hassle-free coffee-making experience.
6. How noisy is the Philips 800 during operation?
The ceramic grinder does produce some noise during operation, particularly when grinding beans. However, the noise level is comparable to other machines in this price range, and it’s generally not disruptive. The brewing and frothing processes are quieter, making it suitable for use even in quieter environments like small homes or offices.
Final Thoughts
The Philips 800 Series Fully Automatic Espresso Machine is an ideal choice for those who are new to the world of fully automatic coffee machines and for anyone seeking a reliable, budget-friendly option. It combines ease of use with the ability to brew espresso, cappuccino, and other coffee drinks with minimal effort. The machine’s compact design, simple control panel, and automatic cleaning functions make it especially appealing to users who prioritize convenience and straightforward functionality.
While it doesn’t have the more advanced features of higher-end models, like a LatteGo milk system or a touchscreen display, the Philips 800 delivers solid performance where it matters most—brew quality, consistency, and ease of maintenance. It’s an excellent value for those who want a dependable espresso machine without spending a fortune.
The verdict:
The Philips 800 Series is a fantastic entry-level espresso machine that delivers on both performance and value. It’s perfect for users who want to enjoy quality coffee at home without the complexity or high cost of more advanced machines. With its affordable price, easy maintenance, and consistent coffee quality, it’s hard to go wrong with this machine if you’re looking for a straightforward coffee-making experience.
Whether you’re a beginner looking for your first fully automatic espresso machine or someone who enjoys a simple coffee routine, the Philips 800 provides a reliable, budget-friendly option that’s easy to use and maintain. It may lack some of the bells and whistles of higher-end models, but it more than makes up for it with its simplicity, durability, and overall value.
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