Choosing your first automatic coffee machine is always a balancing act between the desire for the perfect espresso and the need to stay within a reasonable budget. Model Krups EA810870, also known as the series Essenza, has been a bestseller in the compact automatic device segment for several years. It attracts attention with its laconic design, minimalistic controls and affordable price, which makes it popular with both students and office workers.
However, behind the external simplicity there are a number of technical nuances that you should know about before purchasing. In this article we will examine in detail what constitutes bean coffee machine from a German brand, is it worth the money and how does it behave in real use after a year of use.
The device is positioned as a solution for those who value time and do not want to spend minutes preparing a cup of coffee manually. Despite the lack of complex digital displays, the machine is capable of preparing a quality drink using the system Thermoblock for fast heating of water. But how reliable is it in the long term?
Case design and ergonomics
Model appearance Krups EA810870 made in strict black with glossy and matte inserts. The dimensions of the device really allow it to be placed even in the smallest kitchen or in the limited space of the office canteen. The body width is only 24 cm, which is an excellent indicator for an automatic machine with a built-in coffee grinder.
The body materials are predominantly plastic. This is natural for this price category, but the build quality is respectable. The plastic is dense, without the unpleasant chemical smell characteristic of cheap Chinese analogues. The control panel is located on top and consists of rotary switches, which prevents damage to the touch buttons from moisture.
⚠️ Attention: The glossy surfaces of the top panel are quickly covered with fingerprints and require regular wiping with a dry cloth to maintain a neat appearance.
There is a removable panel on the front, behind which the coffee spout is hidden. Its height is adjustable, allowing you to place both small cups for espresso and tall mugs for Americano under the stream. On the side there is a rotating tube for whipping milk foam, made in the form of a classic cappuccino maker.
Technical characteristics and functionality
The heart of the device is a coffee grinder with stainless steel burrs. It provides uniform grinding, although it is somewhat noisy, which is typical for the budget segment. Brewing system Compact Brewing System allows you to compact the coffee tablet before pouring water, which improves extraction.
Heating element type Thermoblock ensures that you don't have to wait for your car to warm up every morning. Ready for work occurs a few seconds after switching on. The pump pressure is 15 bar, which is the standard for obtaining rich crema on the surface of the espresso.
The control is implemented as simply as possible: two rotary controls. One is responsible for the volume of water (from 30 to 220 ml), the second is for the strength of the drink (amount of grain). The absence of a display and menu makes life easier for those who do not like to understand complex settings.
Use medium roast beans. Beans that are too dark and oily can clog the grinder, while beans that are too light will not produce the desired flavor.
It is important to note the presence of an automatic flushing system when turned on and off. This keeps the hydraulic system clean and prevents coffee oils from becoming old. The water tank capacity is 1.7 liters, which is enough to prepare approximately 10-12 cups of coffee without refilling.
Coffee making process
Preparing a drink begins with selecting parameters. You turn the strength dial to select the amount of grain to grind, and then set the desired amount of water. The machine itself will grind the grains, compact the tablet and supply hot water under pressure.
Water temperature in Krups EA810870 stable and meets espresso standards. The coffee turns out hot, aromatic and with a dense texture. For those who prefer weaker drinks, it is possible to prepare an Americano by increasing the volume of the pour.
- ☕ Espresso is prepared in about 30-40 seconds from the moment you press the button.
- 🥛 The cappuccino machine works manually, requiring skills to whip up the perfect foam.
- 🔇 The noise level during grinding is comparable to the operation of a regular blender at medium speed.
The cappuccino maker deserves special attention. This is a classic pannarello tube that draws in air and mixes it with steam. To get a good foam, the milk should be cold (from the refrigerator) and the nozzle of the tube should not be immersed too deeply in the milk.
⚠️ Attention: Immediately after frothing the milk, be sure to blow out the cappuccino maker with steam for 2-3 seconds so that the remaining milk does not dry out inside the tube and spoil the taste of the next drink.
Maintenance and cleaning
Any automatic coffee machine requires regular maintenance, and Krups EA810870 no exception. The design of the machine makes it easy to remove the brewing unit for washing under running water. This is a critical procedure that should be performed weekly.
The machine itself signals the need for cleaning procedures. The lights on the panel will light up when it is time to descale or flush the system. The decalcification process takes about 20-30 minutes and requires a special product.
☑️ Weekly service
Coffee grounds are collected in a separate container that holds 9 to 11 servings. When the container is full, the corresponding indicator lights up.
Comparison of characteristics with analogues
To understand the place of the model Krups EA810870 on the market, let’s compare its key parameters with direct competitors in this price range. This will help you make an informed choice.
| Parameter | Krups EA810870 | De'Longhi Magnifica S | Philips Series 2200 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pump pressure | 15 bar | 15 bar | 15 bar |
| Coffee grinder type | Millstone (metal) | Millstone (steel) | Millstone (ceramics) |
| Tank volume | 1.7 l | 1.8 l | 1.8 l |
| Spout height adjustment | Yes | Yes | Yes |
As can be seen from the table, the technical characteristics of the market leaders are similar. The main difference lies in the ergonomics of the brewing unit and ease of maintenance. Block Compact Brewing System from Krups is considered one of the most compact, but some users find its removal a little less convenient than its competitors.
The secret to the longevity of millstones
Use dry grains only. Moisture entering the bean hopper can lead to corrosion of the metal millstones and jamming of the mechanism, which is not covered under warranty.
Common problems and their solutions
During operation, owners may encounter a number of typical situations. Most often, users complain that the machine is leaking into the pan. In most cases, this means that the brewing unit is dirty and requires cleaning, or the O-rings have lost their elasticity.
Another common problem is that the coffee flows in a weak stream or splashes. This is a signal that the grinding is set too fine (fine) for this type of coffee, or the coffee grinder needs to be cleaned of oils. Adjustment of the grinding degree is possible only while the millstones are rotating.
- 🛠️ If the machine hums but does not supply water, the system may be airy - it needs pumping.
- 🧼 The appearance of oily spots on the surface of the coffee may indicate the need to clean the brewing group.
- 🔌 Spontaneous shutdown is often associated with a power saving mode that can be configured.
⚠️ Attention: Never use vinegar for decalcification. Acid can damage rubber seals and plastic parts of the hydraulic system, leading to costly repairs.
To resolve most problems, it is enough to carefully study the instructions and carry out basic maintenance. Construction Krups EA810870 repairable, and spare parts for it are widely available on the market.
Final summary and recommendations
Coffee machine Krups EA810870 is a “workhorse” for those who want to drink fresh bean coffee every morning without overpaying for unnecessary features. It can't make a latte with one touch and doesn't have an app on your smartphone, but it does its basic job perfectly.
The key advantage of this model is the combination of a metal coffee grinder and a compact body in the budget price segment. This makes it one of the best entry points into the world of automatic coffee.
The Krups EA810870 is ideal for 1-3 people who value quality espresso and ease of service rather than automation of dairy drinks.
If you're willing to spend 5 minutes a week cleaning the brewing unit and aren't afraid to froth milk by hand for your cappuccino, this machine will be a reliable companion in your kitchen for years to come.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions
Can I use ground coffee in the Krups EA810870?
Yes, the model has a compartment for ground coffee. It is located next to the grain bin. However, it is not recommended to constantly use ground coffee, as this can lead to faster contamination of the brewing unit.
How often should you change your water filter?
It is recommended to change the filter cartridge installed in the water tank every 2 months or after preparing 300 liters of water (whichever comes first). This significantly reduces scale formation.
Why isn't the coffee hot?
The temperature may not be sufficient if the machine is not warmed up (although the Thermoblock heats up quickly), if cold cups are used, or if the grind setting is too coarse. It is also worth checking the temperature settings in the menu if the model allows you to change them through button combinations.
Is the coffee grinder noisy?
The noise level is standard for burr coffee grinders of this class. It is louder than its ceramic counterparts, but the grinding process lasts only a few seconds, so it does not cause critical discomfort.