ILAVIE 20 Bar Espresso Machine Review

If you’re a coffee lover, finding the right espresso machine can feel like a game-changer. The ILAVIE 20 Bar Espresso Machine promises a café-quality experience right at home. In this review, we’ll explore what makes this machine stand out and whether it lives up to the hype. Whether you’re an espresso newbie or a seasoned barista, this machine might just be what you need to elevate your coffee routine.

Overall Look & Design

When you look at the ILAVIE 20 Bar Espresso Machine, the first thing you’ll notice is how well everything is designed. From the moment I started using it, I found that every aspect of the machine just made sense. The interface, for example, is incredibly straightforward. The buttons are easy to understand, so even if you're not familiar with espresso machines, you’ll have no trouble figuring out how to use them.

One of the features I really appreciate is the milk frother. It’s fully adjustable, allowing you to move it effortlessly to the right angle for frothing milk. This is a small detail, but it makes a big difference when you’re trying to get that perfect texture for your cappuccinos or lattes. 

The compact size of this best coffee machine also surprised me in a good way. It doesn’t take up much space on the counter, which is great if you’re like me and have a lot of kitchen gadgets. The dimensions are 13.39 inches deep, 7.48 inches wide, and 14.17 inches high, making it easy to fit into most kitchen spaces without crowding them. If you want a more compact design espresso machine, we recommend checking our KOTLIE 4 in 1 Espresso Coffee Machine review.

The water tank is another standout feature. It can hold up to 1.8 liters of water, which I found to be a brilliant design choice given the machine’s size. This means you won’t need to constantly refill the tank, which is a huge plus, especially if you’re someone who enjoys multiple cups of coffee throughout the day. What’s even better is that the water tank, along with the drip tray, is removable. This makes cleaning the machine incredibly easy. You can simply take out these components, rinse them, and pop them back in without any hassle.

The build quality of the ILAVIE 20 Bar Espresso Machine is something that really impressed me. It’s made from stainless steel, which not only adds to its durability but also gives it a sleek, professional look. Sure, it’s a bit heavier than some of the plastic espresso machines I’ve used in the past, but that’s a trade-off I’m willing to accept. The stainless steel construction makes it feel like a high-quality piece of equipment, similar to what you’d find in a commercial coffee shop.

One of the most thoughtful design features is on top of the machine. There’s a dedicated space to store your coffee mugs, and it even keeps them warm before use. This is such a practical feature that I’m honestly surprised more espresso machines don’t offer it. It helps keep your kitchen counter organized and ensures your mugs are always ready for a hot cup of coffee. This little detail really sets the ILAVIE 20 Bar Espresso coffee Machine apart from others I’ve reviewed.

Performance

The ILAVIE 20 Bar Espresso Machine is designed to deliver a consistently great cup of coffee every time with perfect coffee temperature. At the heart of this machine is its powerful 20-bar pump. This high-pressure pump is what helps create the rich, flavorful espresso that coffee lovers crave. It ensures that the water passes through the coffee grounds with enough force to extract all the best flavors, resulting in a robust and full-bodied espresso shot.

In addition to the pump, the machine is equipped with a thermoelectric coil heating system. This system plays a crucial role in maintaining the right water temperature throughout the brewing process. Consistent temperature is key to brewing great espresso because even a slight variation can affect the taste. The thermoelectric coil ensures that the water heats up quickly and stays at the ideal temperature, so you get the same delicious results with every cup.

Another impressive feature of which makes it valuable is its digital temperature control, which uses PID technology. PID stands for Proportional-Integral-Derivative, a technology that helps maintain precise control over the water temperature. With this feature, the machine can adjust the heating elements in real-time to ensure that the water temperature stays stable during the brewing process. This stability is essential for extracting the full flavor from the coffee grounds and achieving that perfect, rich crema on top of your espresso.

The combination of these advanced features means that the ILAVIE 20 Bar Espresso Machine is built to produce high-quality espresso consistently. Whether you're a seasoned coffee enthusiast or just starting to explore the world of espresso, this machine makes it easy to enjoy full-flavored, authentic espresso with rich crema every time you brew.

User Friendly Interface 

The ILAVIE 20 Bar Espresso Machine is designed with convenience and ease of use in mind, and its display screen is a perfect example of that. Its screen is not just there for looks; it plays a vital role in enhancing your coffee-making experience. It shows important information like the current temperature, which is crucial for brewing a perfect espresso. Knowing the exact temperature helps ensure that your coffee is brewed at the optimal level, bringing out the best flavors in every cup.

Another helpful feature on the screen is the brewing countdown. This tells you how much time is left before your espresso is ready, so you’re never left guessing. It’s a small detail, but it makes the process much more enjoyable, especially if you’re in a hurry or like to keep an eye on your coffee as it brews. The steaming countdown works in a similar way, giving you a clear idea of how long it will take to steam your milk to the perfect temperature and texture.

Using the ILAVIE espresso machine is incredibly straightforward, thanks to its intuitive controls. You don’t need to be a coffee expert to operate it. With just a touch of a button, you can select whether you want a single cup, a double cup, or to use the steam function. The machine automatically adjusts to deliver the right amount of espresso or steam, depending on your selection. This makes it easy to get the perfect dose every time, whether you’re making a quick single shot for yourself or a double shot to share.

Milk Frother System

I’d like to tell you the ILAVIE 20 Bar Espresso Machine comes with a powerful milk frother system that truly stands out. It doesn’t take high energy like other espresso machines. However, with a strong 1350-watt motor, this machine has enough power to create the perfect froth for your coffee drinks. Whether you're making a cappuccino or a latte, the frother is designed to deliver professional-quality results right at home.

One of the most impressive features which I also like is the 360-degree rotating steam wand. This flexibility allows you to control the angle and position of the wand, making it easier to achieve the texture you want in your milk. As the steam wand rotates, it introduces thousands of tiny bubbles into the milk. These tiny bubbles are what give the milk that smooth, velvety texture that’s so important for creating high-quality coffee drinks.

The steam wand’s ability to create microfoam is another highlight. Micro-foam is the fine, silky foam that baristas use to create latte art. The ILAVIE machine’s frother is capable of producing this silky micro-foam, which not only enhances the taste and texture of your coffee but also allows you to get creative with your coffee presentation.

Coffee Taste

No espresso machine review would be complete without talking about the actual coffee it produces. After all, I think taste is the most important factor in coffee machines. I was eager to see how the ILAVIE 20 Bar Espresso Machine would handle my favorite Ethiopian coffee beans. After grinding them to the perfect consistency, I loaded the portafilter and fired up the machine.

To my delight, the espresso that poured out was rich and strong, just the way I like it. The flavor was full-bodied, with a depth that really showcased the quality of the beans. One thing that really stood out was the crema—the golden, foamy layer on top of the espresso. The ILAVIE machine produced a generous amount of crema, which is a good sign of a well-brewed espresso. This added a smooth, slightly creamy texture to the coffee, making each sip even more enjoyable.

A big part of what made the coffee taste so good was the machine’s PID technology. The PID, or Proportional-Integral-Derivative controller, kept the water temperature consistent throughout the brewing process. This is crucial for extracting the right flavors from the coffee grounds. I found that no matter when I made my espresso—whether it was first thing in the morning or later in the day—the temperature was always spot-on, and the taste never disappointed.

As a side note, I found that the ILAVIE 20 Bar Espresso Machine is incredibly quick at heating water. This made it a go-to for more than just coffee. I used it to prepare green teas and hot chocolates as well. I know these drinks aren’t the main focus, but it’s worth mentioning, especially if you have family members who aren’t coffee drinkers. The speed and efficiency of this machine make it versatile for a variety of hot beverages, which adds even more value to it.

How to Clean It

Let’s be honest—cleaning is probably the least enjoyable part of owning any espresso machine. However, the ILAVIE 20 Bar Espresso Machine made this necessary task much easier to manage. While no one looks forward to cleaning, this machine’s design helps make the process more bearable.

One of the most convenient features is the removable tank and drip tray. Both of these components can be taken out with ease, which makes a huge difference when it comes to cleaning. Being able to remove the tank means you can give it a thorough rinse or soak it every now and then to keep it fresh and free of buildup. The drip tray, which can get messy from coffee drips and spills, is also easy to remove. This allows you to clean it more effectively, ensuring that the machine stays in good condition and your kitchen stays clean.

Another helpful tip I discovered is using an espresso cleaning solution. By pouring some of this solution into the machine and running it through a brew cycle, you can help maintain the inner workings of the espresso maker. This simple step helps keep the machine in top shape, preventing any residue from building up inside. Regular cleaning like this not only prolongs the life of the machine but also ensures that your coffee always tastes fresh and pure.

Safety Tips

When using the ILAVIE 20 Bar Espresso Machine, there are a few important tips to keep in mind. First and foremost, this machine is designed to operate on 120V and 60Hz power only. It’s crucial to ensure that you connect it to the correct power source. Using any kind of adapter or converter with this machine can cause it to malfunction. To avoid any issues, always use it with the appropriate voltage.

Before you start brewing your first cup of coffee, I highly recommend following the quick start guide included in the package. This guide provides step-by-step instructions on how to set up the machine and use its features. It will help you understand how to make the most out of your espresso machine, ensuring that you get the best results right from the start.

If you encounter any problems or have questions while using the machine, don’t hesitate to reach out for help from customer support. It’s always better to ask for help early on rather than trying to troubleshoot on your own. The team is there to provide quick assistance, ensuring that your experience with the ILAVIE 20 Bar Espresso Machine is smooth and enjoyable.

Value of The Money

When considering the ILAVIE 20 Bar Espresso Machine, it’s essential to think about its value for the money. Although this machine doesn’t offer a lot of features, it has some features that can enhance your coffee-making experience. For many coffee enthusiasts, investing in a quality espresso machine is worth it, and the ILAVIE model stands out in several ways.

First, the performance of this machine is impressive. It delivers rich, flavorful espresso with a beautiful crema. The 20-bar pressure pump ensures that you get a great extraction every time. This level of performance is often found in more expensive machines, making the ILAVIE a great option for those who want quality without breaking the bank.

In addition to its performance, the ILAVIE 20 Bar Espresso Machine is designed to be user-friendly. The intuitive controls make it easy to select your desired brew strength, whether you want a single or double shot of espresso. This simplicity means you can spend less time figuring out how to use the machine and more time enjoying your coffee.

Another factor to consider is the build quality. The stainless steel construction not only gives the machine a professional look but also contributes to its durability. You want a machine that can withstand daily use, and the ILAVIE delivers on that front. Investing in a durable espresso machine can save you money in the long run, as you won’t have to replace it frequently.

Cleaning and maintenance are also essential when evaluating value for money. The ILAVIE machine has removable components like the water tank and drip tray, making cleaning easy. A machine that is easy to maintain will last longer and function better over time, adding to its overall value.

Lastly, think about the versatility of the ILAVIE 20 Bar Espresso Machine. While it excels at making espresso, it can also be used to create a variety of coffee drinks. Whether you want a cappuccino, a latte, or even hot chocolate, this machine can handle it. This versatility means you get more value from a single appliance, allowing you to enjoy different beverages without needing multiple machines.

How It Compare With Other Models

Final Verdict

The ILAVIE 20 Bar Espresso Machine is a solid choice for anyone serious about their coffee. It delivers strong, flavorful espresso with a rich crema, thanks to its powerful 20-bar pressure pump and consistent temperature control. The machine is also user-friendly, with intuitive controls and a design that’s easy to clean and maintain. Its compact size makes it a great fit for most kitchens, while the stainless steel finish adds a touch of elegance. If you’re looking for a reliable espresso machine that delivers café-quality coffee at home, this model is a great investment.