We don't know about you, but here at Yours, we couldn't make it through our morning without a hot cup of coffee. Whilst we love hitting our local coffee shop as much as the next person, it's even better having coffee machines to use at home. Then you can enjoy a fresh cup without having to get dressed out of your pyjamas. So, when we had the opportunity to test the Salter Espirista Coffee Machine, we jumped at the chance.
With this coffee machine, you can make a range of coffees for your everyday needs or for hosting guests from Americano, latte, mocha, espresso, flat white and cappuccinos. We love this because it means you do not need a separate espresso machine.
Pros
- Creates flavourful barista-style coffees
- Milk frother is easy to use
- Makes a range of coffees
- Easy to clean
Cons
- Instructions could be clearer
If you enjoy ground coffee, the Salter Espirista Coffee machine is a fantastic option. Unlike bean-to-cup coffee machines, this machine only requires you to take a scoop of your favourite ground coffee with the measured spoon provided. We like that the end of the spoon has a flat surface this allows you to pack as much coffee as possible.
Key features
Milk frothing wand
The milk frothing wand on this machine is one of our favourite features. The frother introduces little air bubbles into the milk which creates a light creamy texture as well as increases the overall volume of the beverage. We love using this for making delicious cappuccinos.
15-bar Italian pressure pump system
A 15-bar pump pressure system is the amount of pressure that a coffee machine can apply when brewing. Typically coffee machines have between 7-15 BAR pressure. This allows the water and air to pass through them effectively. In simple terms, this enables you to make a gorgeous aromatic cup of coffee.
Touch panel
The touch panel allows you to choose whether you want to make a single cup of coffee or two cups at the same time. Which is perfect if you have guests around.
Testing the Salter Espirista Coffee Machine
As someone whose coffee drinking is usually limited to a fancy coffee treat at Starbucks, I wasn't sure what to expect from having a coffee machine at home. 'Would I use it enough to justify the kitchen space?' was my initial thought. But to my delight, I ended up using it every morning after it arrived. There is something very stratifying about making your own cappuccino from the comfort of your own home.
Before long, I was spending my evenings scouring the internet for different types of ground coffee. And finding YouTube tutorials on how to make the perfect cup of joe, I really was channelling my inner barista.
Performance
When the coffee machine arrived, it was incredibly easy to set up. Simply put in the water and plug it in. However, making the coffee itself took a little more research. As a visual learner, I had to very slowly and carefully read instructions on how to make a cup. One thing that is worth noting is that it did take a little bit of trial and error. At first, I was a little stuck on how to get the machine to work. When using the milk frother, you have to ensure that the dial is fully turned off to get the machine to make the coffee.
Personally, I would have liked a video tutorial or a more visual instructional guide. I would have also liked more tips on how to make different cups of coffee. I have now mastered cappuccinos and espressos but haven't yet conquered the other types of coffee that can be made with the machine.
Final thoughts
For the price, I think this is a fantastic machine for anyone wanting to make barista-style coffees from the comfort of their own home. Once you get a hang of the machine, it is very easy to use. There are lots of YouTube tutorials for more visual learners. I love that this isn't a big machine and that it does not take up much counter space, making it a fantastic option for people with limited space.
The water machine holds 1.4L of water, which I found was enough for more than a dozen cups of coffee. It is very easy to clean and creates very little mess. Unlike some coffee machines on the market, the frother works brilliantly and does not cause any unnecessary splatter.
If you are wanting to add fresh coffee to your morning, then this a fantastic appliance. After just a few uses, you will be able to master your favourite coffee and the machine requires no faffing or adjusting. Simply pop in your favourite ground coffee, froth your milk, push the touch button and you are ready to kick-start your day.
FAQs
What coffee do you use in this Salter coffee machine?
The Salter Espirista Coffee Machine uses ground coffee. We purchased this from our local Sainsbury's supermarket.
How many scoops of coffee do you put in a coffee maker?
This coffee machine conveniently comes with a measured scoop which ensures that you have the perfect amount of coffee every time.
Hannah James is a Senior Home, Parenting and Lifestyle Product writer for Yours, specialising in product testing and reviews. As a mother of three, Hannah loves finding clothes that make her feel fabulous and products that are great for large families.
