You may be at the very beginning of your quest to prepare the perfect cup of coffee at home. Or you might just as well be a restaurant owner searching to upgrade your appliances, for a better brew. In both cases, while you are studying the options, chances are you run into the Smeg coffee makers.
Their unique, stylish design is going to draw your attention, no doubt. Available in an eye-catching palette of pastel colors, they will make you want to get one, asap. Any of these coffee makers is a head-turner, whether in your home kitchen or on the counter of your coffee shop.
The first question on everyone’s mind is how much of the stylish look is really backed up by performance?
To answer that question and many more, today we put under the spotlight the line of Smeg coffee makers. Functionalities, weak points, as well as three thorough product reviews, all gets included. Keep reading to find out if you should really buy a Smeg coffee maker.
Quick Facts – Smeg Coffee Machines
Smeg appliances are usually easily recognized by their sleek, colorful, retro 1950’s style. What few people know is that the history of this company actually began in the 1940s.
Back in 1948, Vittorio Bertazzoni founded the company in Guastalla, Reggio Emilia, Italy. At first, they specialised in enamelling and metalwork.
But they soon expanded towards producing cooking appliances. From dishwashers to ovens, sinks, hoods, refrigerators, Smeg has covered them all. For more than 70 years now, they enchant and satisfy consumers all across the world.
In 2019, Smeg also took over one of Italy’s historic coffee machine manufacturers – “La Pavoni”.
Their unique collections of Italian-inspired, retro-style designs revolutionized home appliances. Smeg provides not only highly functional, but also stylish, statement-making products.
Best Features of a Smeg Coffee Maker
When one hears “Italy”, mouth-watering food and passion for well-made coffee come to mind. Starting from this innate love for coffee, Smeg designed some outstanding coffee machines. If we were to closely analyze their best features, here is what we think would stand out.
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Retro Style Design
If you are looking for appliances that have the looks and the performance, Smeg is the answer you need. The appealing, chic retro style of all their products is by far, one of the most enchanting. If you want a conversation-starter for your coffee breaks, you have a palette of colors to choose from.
Or if you prefer an eye-catching piece for your home kitchen, just pick your favorite pastel shade.
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Performance
When it comes to Smeg, their reputation often precedes them. As they gained more and more popularity, one thing became clear. Their array of home appliances is not only good looking.
High quality materials, a team of experienced designers and manufacturers ensure top results. So the performance of Smeg coffee machines provides the genuine Italian espresso experience.
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Top-Notch Features
From automatic turn on to keeping coffee warm, these coffee machines work wonders. Knowing what coffee drinkers need most, Smeg dedicates efforts into incorporating top-notch features. So, not only do you get a plain old coffee maker, but also a set of modern functionalities.
Your Smeg coffee machine can let you know if the water is too hard or when it is time for descaling. Adjusting the aroma intensity or the brew size adds a plus to your very own experience of making coffee. You get notified of each functionality with the help of the indicators on the LED display.
Our Favorite Smeg Coffee Machine
We could not keep praising Smeg coffee machines without giving some real examples. So we thought to pick just three of our favorite appliances from this category.
We put them under the spotlight and analyzed both strengths and low points for each. If you are curious what we like (and dislike) for each of these coffee machines, keep reading.
1. DCF02 Drip Coffee Maker
The DCF02 Drip Coffee Maker is a part of the latest generation of Smeg coffee machines. Preserving an old-fashioned, 50’s style design, it impresses with some top-notch features. You can now take control over several aspects of how your cup of java gets made. Adjust the intensity of the aroma or the hardness of the water, to ensure your brew tastes just as you like it.
Featuring a reusable filter, the machine is both efficient and environment-friendly. You get to cut down on the expenses, by saying ‘goodbye’ to paper filters. Of course, if you wish to add an additional filtering layer, you can. And you will be happy to know it also balances energy consumption, with the automatic shut-off.
Most reviews praise the smooth, silky taste of a brew made in this Smeg Drip Coffee Maker. Evoking the Italian standards of quality, this machine takes things up a notch. You can make up to 10 cups of coffee at once, though we recommend doing only what you will drink on the spot.
Given how easy it is to set the machine to work, it is more appealing to just prepare a fresh brew when cravings hit. At the same time, the feature that preserves your coffee warm stays on for up to 60 minutes. More than that, you risk burning or getting a stale taste of your drip coffee.
Available in various pastel colors, this coffee maker promises to be a statement-maker. You get to choose what matches your style (and kitchen better), whether it is bright red or pastel green. Of course, for the more conservative ones, there is also the stainless steel version, ideal to blend in. The best part of this appliance is how well the 1950’s retro vibes match almost any kitchen design.
You do not have to be fluent in Italian to make a delicious coffee with this machine. The user-friendly control panel, along with the LED display make adjustments a no-brainer. From installing to descaling, the appliance provides luminous indicators of the steps necessary.
SMEG DCF02 DRIP COFFEE MAKER PROs
- stylish retro design, inspired by the 1950’s
- aroma intensity function (light or intense)
- full-metal, colorful housing and lid
- extra-stability (anti-slip feet)
- sound notifications (optional)
- programmable auto-start mode
- 4-cup brew mode
- customizable clock option (12 or 24 hours)
- adjustable water hardness
- 1-hour Keep Warm mode
- digital LED display
- descaling alarm (light indicator)
- large glass carafe (10-cup capacity)
- anti-drip carafe lid
- water level indicator
- reusable filter
SMEG DCF02 DRIP COFFEE MAKER CONs
- narrow water tank opening (difficult to pour water in)
- considerable size (less ideal for homes with reduced counter space)
- sound notifications rather loud
- glass carafe prone to staining (requiring cleaning often)
- frequent descaling needed (depending on water hardness in your area)
- on the high-end range of coffee machines.
Our Verdict
All in all, the qualities of this drip coffee maker overcome the flaws. The manufacturer is also seeking to improve constantly. The latest updates made prove how the public’s opinion truly matters for Smeg.
We find this machine charming and performing great, while also being easy to use. So, if your budget allows it, we would say it is worth adding such a piece to your kitchen space. Your morning coffee will feel more glamorous with the DCF02 Drip Coffee Maker on the job.
2. Smeg Espresso Machine ECF01
We know all this time spent inside the house in the past year got everyone starting new hobbies. So, in case you began improving your barista skills, then this item is for you. The Smeg Espresso Machine ECF01 stays faithful to the retro elegant look.
Producing smooth and frothy coffees, this machine can become your new best buddy. It is ideal to prepare an espresso, as well as a cappuccino or a macchiato. The trick is getting the hang of it.
As its designers opted for simplicity, this espresso maker only has three buttons. However, you are in for a surprise when it comes to the complex results you can obtain with it. All you have to do is master the right sequence of button pressing. That said, brace yourself for some thorough reading of the user’s manual.
Before raising your expectations, you need to learn to control each step of making coffee.
You know you got your hands on an amazing coffee machine once you see its heating system and pump pressure. This one relies on a top-notch thermoblock heating system to deliver the best results. It takes only 40 seconds to get the water hot and ready for brewing. You get to enjoy a quicker switch-on and a higher precision on water temperature control.
The 15 bar pressure ensures you get closer to the Italian espresso taste you crave for. From brewing, to steam and hot water control, things get serious with this machine. You can also produce silky smooth froth by mixing steam, air and milk.
The Smeg Espresso Machine ECF01 is not for the fainthearted. Keep in mind that mastering the art of preparing an espresso takes time and several fails. Before getting better results, you will have to understand how to adjust. The features of this espresso maker are more than rewarding, once you know their role.
You have the freedom to use fresh grounded coffee, as well as paper pods. The stainless steel filter offers you three options on that matter, for extra comfort. As for the size of your coffee, there is plenty of space for versatility. You can use your small espresso cup, as well as a taller mug, as the cup tray is removable.
Plus, the top of the machine works as a cup warmer as well, which comes in handy while you are preparing a second drink.
SMEG ESPRESSO MACHINE ECF01 PROs
- stylish, retro appearance
- sleek, compact design
- simple control panel (3 buttons for adjusting settings)
- versatile filter holder (single, double, paper pods)
- descaling alarm
- top-notch thermoblock heating system (40 seconds to reach optimal temperature)
- high precision for water temperature control
- 15 bar pressure
- milk wand/frother included
- removable cup tray for mug versatility
- cup warmer feature (on top of the machine)
- high power (1350W)
- ideal to produce high-quality coffee specialties (espresso, macchiato etc.).
SMEG ESPRESSO MACHINE ECF01 CONs
- intricate setting adjustments (not suitable for getting a quick fix in the morning)
- not a beginner-friendly coffee machine
- high-end product
- not compatible with hard-shell coffee pods.
Our Verdict
If you are looking to up your game when it comes to making coffee at home, you deserve a stylish fix. The Smeg Espresso Machine ECF01 is ideal for those who are not afraid to roll up their sleeves and get to work. Once you learn how to use it, this machine provides you with the ultimate Italian espresso taste.
3. Smeg 50’s Retro Style Aesthetic Coffee Grinder
If one of the coffee machines above stole your heart, we have to be honest. Your Italian coffee experience may feel incomplete without a professional grinder. And if you are looking to keep the 50’s style consistent in your home or business, Smeg is the only answer.
So, on our recommendation list, the Smeg 50’s Retro Style Aesthetic Coffee Grinder is a must.
Available in classical, eye-catching pastel colors, these grinders help perfect your brew. Take full control over what goes into your morning cup of java. Keep your coffee as fresh as possible, grinding from the comfort of your home, with little effort.
You can adjust the grind size to fully match your coffee maker. You have up to 30 levels of grinding, customizable with just a lever twist. Whether you use an espresso machine, a moka stovetop pot, or a French press, the grind will match any standard.
This appliance allows you to ground your beans directly into the filter of your coffee maker. And of course, you can also use the special Tritan™ container included to collect the fresh grind.
Maintenance for this grinder is straightforward and precise. Plus, the safety features put your mind at ease if you get easily distracted before you have your coffee. Accidents are easily prevented, thanks to a special feature. Specifically, the machine does not function if the bean container is not in place.
In terms of performance, the Smeg 50’s Retro Style Aesthetic Coffee Grinder rocks. But we think the looks of it is almost as important. Preserving the sleek appearance of classical Smeg collections, this piece is a head-turner. If you are looking to add an elegant touch to your kitchen or just complete your Smeg FAB set, call off the search.
Rely on its powder coated stainless steel body to make a strong first impression.
SMEG 50’S RETRO STYLE COFFEE GRINDER PROs
- stylish, retro-inspired design
- available in the same pastel colors as the Smeg coffee makers
- durable, die-cast aluminium body
- removable stainless steel grinders
- easy to clean
- safety feature (no operation allowed without the bean container in place)
- user-friendly design
- adjustable grind size (up to 30 levels)
- large grinding capacity (up to 12 cups for drip coffee).
SMEG 50’S RETRO STYLE COFFEE GRINDER CONs
- higher price, compared to similar products out on the market.
Our Verdict
You may be skeptical when it comes to investing such a big chunk of your green in a coffee grinder. But the Smeg 50’s Retro Style Aesthetic Coffee Grinder lives up to its reputation.
It will perform as great as you expect it to, ensuring your grind matches the highest standards. Plus, it will definitely be a pleasure to look at it, day after day. In the long run, you will be more than happy that you chose such an eye-pleasing piece to up your coffee game.
Smeg Coffee Maker Review (Final Thoughts)
The Smeg coffee machines stand out from the crowd, no doubt about that. From design to functionalities, these appliances have a long history of top performance.
Given the high-quality promise for every piece, you may need to adjust your budget. The Smeg home appliances are easily considered more of a high-end category. Yet according to users’ reviews, most of the time, they are well worth the costs.
If you are willing to go a bit over your budget for a stylish touch to your kitchen, consider a Smeg coffee machine. The 50’s retro style, combined with the most modern features, will be a match for any home.
So, which pastel color would fit your countertop best?
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