Philips 3200 Series Fully Automatic Espresso Machine Review
When I began my search for the perfect automatic espresso machine, I was overwhelmed by the plethora of brands and features. Fortunately, I’ve done all the digging so you don’t have to. I found a trusted machine that gets the job done without draining the bank. And I’m here to help you decide if the Philips 3200 Series Fully Automatic Espresso Machine is the key to all your espresso dreams.
Presenting the Philips 3200 Series Fully Automatic Espresso Machine
The Philips 3200 Series Fully Automatic Espresso Machine comes in two different models: the LatteGo and the Classic Milk Frother. The LatteGo promises 5 unique coffee varieties, 20,000 total cups, an automatic milk frother and a maximum of 5,000 cups without descaling. The Classic Milk Frother, while providing the same basic features and beverages, is different in that its milk frother is manual.
Both models offer the following beverage options:
Coffee, Espresso, Espresso Lungo, Cappuccino, Latte, Americano, Hot Water
Compared to the corresponding market leader model, Breville’s Fully Automatic Espresso Machine (Oracle Touch), the Philips coffee machine series offers fewer sophisticated features and brewing options but is considerably less expensive. Additionally, the Breville espresso machines are larger and built more for commercial settings. The Philips 3200 espresso models, on the other hand, are designed for the average coffee consumer.
Pros
- Moderate price
- Easy to use
- Durable
Cons
- Limited options
- Plastic material
What Are The Key Features & Benefits of the Philips 3200?
Both models of the Philips 3200 series include the following features:
Pictorial Touch Display
This sleek display is located at the top of the machine. It includes a power button, the espresso options grouped in a 2-by-3 unit, cleaning features, a start-and-stop button and three different options for strength and quantity. Although basic in comparison to other models, this intuitive interface promises to help you easily personalise your cup.
12-step grinder adjustment
These 100% ceramic grinders can be adjusted in 12 different levels, producing everything from smooth powder to earthy grinds. Instead of trying to achieve the desired consistency yourself every time you brew, this automatic device does it for you.
AquaClean filter
This feature is a welcome bonus for anyone who doesn’t have the time of day to descale a coffee machine’s intricate innards. This filter purifies the water poured into the machine. For up to 5,000 cups you can enjoy fresh, clean water. And the peace of mind knowing that the freshness of your morning cup is not compromised; before the machine notifies you to descale.
Milk Frothing
The LatteGo model comes with a two-part, tubeless milk system, which allows you to top your cup with a layer of milk froth — latte style (a process that circulates milk and air). The Classic Milk Frother is similar but produces a fluffier froth by dispensing steam.
Other Features Of Both Models
- Adjustable coffee strength and milk foam quantity – you can adjust the coffee and milk to your liking
- 60oz water tank – huge capacity so that you don’t need to keep on refilling it
- Waste container capacity of 12 servings – needs occasional clearing of the container
- Double Cup option – makes two cup at one go
- Removable brew unit – allows you to easily clean the brewing unit
How Does It Compare?
DeLonghi ESAM3300 Magnifica Super Automatic Espresso & Coffee Machine
This brand is comparable in price to Philips coffee makers. While both have essentially the same water reservoir capacity, the Philips models have a larger bean hopper (9.7 oz vs. 8.8). Also, the DeLonghi uses a manual steam wand, unlike the Philip LatteGo which is automatic. The compact size makes it great for small counter-space, and you can use the decalcification indicator to know when to clean your machine.
Jura A1 Automatic Coffee Machine
This product is great if you’re wanting an espresso machine without so many options. It allows you to prepare coffee, ristretto, and of course espresso. Like the Magnifica, this product is on the smaller end of espresso machines. The Jura A1 has a water tank that only holds 37 ounces, about half the size of the Magnifica.
Gaggia Brera Super Automatic Espresso Machine
This model stands out for its sleek stainless steel exterior, compared to the black plastic of the Philips models. It is one of the least expensive espresso machines on the market. With that said, it still includes lots of features including push-button controls and an LED display. This machine’s drip tray, dredge drawer, and water tank are all accessible from the front of this device, which makes keeping it clean a breeze.
Things To Consider Before Buying An Espresso Machine
Before you purchase an espresso machine, there are a few things you should consider. Here are some helpful questions to ask yourself:
- How often do I drink espressos or espresso varieties?
- How many cups do I want to make from each batch?
- How much time do I have to operate and/or clean an espresso machine?
Answering these questions will set you on track to find the perfect fit. There are so many different models, and the search can be overwhelming if you don’t know what you’re looking for. Before starting the hunt, think about your daily coffee consumption habits and how you might like to broaden your brewing horizons.
For example, I drink around two cups of straight black coffee per day. Occasionally, I will treat myself to a Starbucks espresso. However, I have long wanted to incorporate this drink into my morning routine. Minus the barista-made price.
Answering the above questions will help me decide what type of espresso machine to search for. While I like variety, I don’t need a hundred fancy beverages. Most importantly, I’m far too busy to operate a manual or even semi-automatic machine — much less clean it out after each use. Thus, I should search for a fully automatic machine with a filtering feature. And I can get by with a less durable and sophisticated (and thus less expensive) model.
Determining your specific preferences beforehand is a great strategy to settle on exactly what you want — without draining your pockets.
Should I Buy The Philips 3200 Series Fully Automatic Espresso Machine?
While searching for the perfect espresso machine can be tiring, asking the right questions will set you on the right track. The Philips 3200 is a great fit for anyone looking for an affordable machine with a variety of beverage options and minimal upkeep, making it one of the best super automatic espresso machines.