Mr. Coffee ECM20 Steam Espresso Maker

Given the price this machine is a gem. Outside of the lid falling off on occasion - when I've given it reason to - I haven't encountered any of the problems anyone else has mentioned. I love this little guy.

I needed a new espresso maker. I wanted an economical one, if you know what I mean. I have had no problems with this one. Steamer has a lot of power. I read about the difficulty opening top. I agree, but making sure pressure is all out and with a little caution in not forcing the top it works fine.

I was a little worried about getting this espresso/cappucino maker because of some of the complaints about the milk frother on the machine, but I don't understand why anyone wouldn't love this machine, particularly given its low cost compared to others on the market. The quality of the espresso is not the best I have ever tasted, but it does the job just fine, and the milk frother is top notch! I have owned any number of cappucino makers in my life, and this is the best one for making a stiff, thick foam. There are better machines to be had for three times the price, but this one is an excellent performer for the cost.

This espresso machine completely fell apart with very light use in our house. All the plastic things that fit on the carafe just fell completely apart, the handle, the lid...Now all we have are hot screws to pick up the carafe with. Would not recommend to anyone. Would give 0 stars if possible.

Simply put, the heating element is too hot and the water blasts, rather than flows through the filter. What you get is more like strong coffee than espresso.

Try any grind you want, it's still too hot for espresso. And you cannot adjust it.

I recommend the Bialetti Moka Express, a stove-top espresso maker. It's only about 25 dollars and makes wonderful, creamy espresso. I got a perfect pot on my second try.

You simply heat up the water and then move it off the burner a little so that the espresso flows, rather than sputters from the spout. You end up with that thick, creamy espresso.

I recommend the 6 cup version. Amazon has it.