The Brim 19 Bar Espresso Machine is a relatively new player on the market. Nevertheless, that does not make it any less interesting for coffee and espresso lovers. Today, we take a closer look at this new addition to the espresso machine lineup and learn about it in this Brim 19 Bar Espresso Machine Review.
Brim 19 Bar Espresso Machine: Review
There is a lot to say about the Brim Espresso Maker, so we focus on some of the most important attributes of a good espresso maker.
We look at the design, durability, ease of use, cost, maintenance and versatility of the Brim Espresso Maker. So, how does this appliance score on these levels?
Design and build quality
Some of the lower end espresso machines are usually made from a combination of plastics and a slight percentage of metals. This is fortunately not the case for the Brim espresso maker, which consists mainly out of a durable stainless steel.
The stainless steel certainly adds a lot more durability to this 19 bar espresso maker. However, stainless steel is not the only thing that makes a good espresso maker. We also need to look at small parts.
Looking at the number of small parts, we are happy to say that the manufacturer has kept the small parts of the Brim 19 bar espresso maker to an absolute minimum. And while there are some small parts on the 19 bar espresso maker, it certainly is not enough to cause premature breakage of the machine.
Of course, keeping the appliance in good working order does require good maintenance, something we will elaborate on a little further in this review. We always advise consumers to read the manual thoroughly, which includes lots of maintenance tips and even techniques to help you keep this appliance as pristine as the day you purchased it. Even if you have lots of experience with brewing, it is still worth checking the maintenance section in the manual to avoid potential problems and premature breakage somewhere down the line.
Types of coffee brewed
While the Brim 19 bar espresso maker is mainly designed for espresso, it does not mean that other beverages are beyond the realm of possibilities. Quite the opposite in fact, because this 19 bar espresso maker enables you to make all coffee beverages using the proven classic techniques.
One part that most certainly contributes to that is the steam wand included in the design. The steam wand also has a 360-degree swivel, which enables you to get even more precision from your steam wand performance and better texturized microfoam.
Of course, the beverages you can make with this appliance are somewhat subject to your skill level. As a beginner, it could be worth looking at some brewing techniques before you work with this appliance.
Some beverages need a degree of skill, which goes from grind to the use of the steam wand. So, for those who have little experience with brewing techniques, this will be the recommended choice of action.
Ease of use
The Brim 19 bar espresso maker certainly comes with loads of features, but unfortunately it is not the easiest machine to operate for beginners. That being said, the average bar espresso maker has a learning curve for beginners.
In reality, we need to look at how complicated this Brim Tazza is compared to other espresso makers out there. Overall, we would put the Brim Tazza in the medium range where ease of use is concerned.
So, while beginners should not rule this amazing machine out, they should expect a learning curve to master this particular option.
Maintenance
As we previously mentioned, the Brim Tazza does contain some small parts. When it comes to maintenance, this is one of the first things we always look at, as small parts can cause accumulation of dirt and grime that is a bit more difficult to remove.
One of the things that stood out to us in terms of maintenance were the steam wand and the hot water dispenser itself. The hot water dispenser and the arms have some small parts and are situated quite close to one another.
Since you will have to clean the hot water dispenser as well as the arms, we recommend giving them a quick wipe every day. Otherwise, we can see some dirt and grime piling up on it. However, if you have some dedication and wipe it every day, this should not be a problem in terms of durability and longevity.
In retrospect, the Brim Tazza does have less small part than most espresso makers on the market today, so it is no necessarily the most complicated one to clean and maintain.
Nevertheless, it will require more maintenance than automated espresso makers. Of course, automated espresso makers give you less control, so it all depends which of the benefits you value most.
Cost
The cost of this appliance lies in the medium range. However, if you compare it to appliances with similar price, you get a bunch more features compared to most.
So, if you do not mind paying a little bit more than the lower end coffee machines, you will not be disappointed with the value for money this option provides.
Of course, there are more affordable options out there to make espresso. That being said, you do have to take into account that you will receive less features in return. On top of that, such cheaper models can be accompanied by less durable building materials.
So, if you do look for something in a lower price range, be sure to take these things into account. A good espresso appliance should last you for several years, not a few months.
Therefore, it is often better to invest in a bit more quality with a good warranty than a cheaper model that may need to be replaced in a matter of weeks.
Who it’s for
We would recommend this appliance for anyone with a bit more substantial knowledge where coffee is concerned.
Anyone who likes a quality brew and wants to make their own espresso, latte, or even cappuccino with more precision will appreciate everything this appliance has to offer.
As you have seen in our review, the Brim does come with a bunch of barista features that you will not get with most automated coffee machines.
This model stands for control and precision, so this is exactly what you will receive. And while it is more expensive than the automated coffee makers out there, this is a coffee appliance that will match anyone with substantial knowledge on coffee brewing.
Who it’s not for
Given its extensive features, we do not recommend this appliance for anyone who is not that knowledgeable in terms of coffee brewing.
For example, if you like a quick cup of coffee in the morning, but have little interest in coffee brewing skills, then this option is not for you.
Beginners or those searching for convenience where their favorite brew is concerned should look at some of the automated models or even K-Cup coffee makers.
Since these provide you with a quick brew without much effort, they will be much more suitable for your personal needs.
Of course, we do need to mention that this is one of the bigger appliances you could get for coffee making. So, if you have little room on the kitchen counter, it may be worth looking at smaller alternatives for your brewing efforts.
Conclusion
We are very impressed with this newcomer on the market. We have evaluated numerous appliances in the past with similar properties, but they are usually a lot more expensive than the Brim. Imagine our surprise discovering this little gem.
While we have very little to add in terms of improvements, the only point that could be just a little better is maintenance.
While we appreciate that a streamlined design and less little parts is difficult for this kind of appliance, we do believe some small improvements could make this the top espresso option out there (if it isn’t already). So, all things considered, a really good review from us.
Last update on 2024-04-09 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
