AMZCHEF EM1501 20 Bar Espresso Machine: features, specs and who it suits

The AMZCHEF EM1501 is a compact semi-automatic espresso machine for home or office use. It pairs a 20 bar pump with a 1350W heater, touch controls and a steam wand for milk drinks, in a body that is roughly 12 inches wide and weighs 2.6 lb. Here is what those specs mean and what to consider if you are new to making espresso at home.

What "20 bar" does and does not tell you

AMZCHEF describes the 20 bar pump as extracting rich oils and flavour for a consistent espresso with crema. It helps to know that traditional espresso is brewed at around 9 bar at the coffee. The higher figure on a home machine is the pump's peak capability, not the pressure the coffee sees, and most machines regulate it down. Grind size, dose and tamping usually shape the result as much as the pump's bar figure does.

Fast heat-up with a thermoblock

The machine has a 1350W heater that AMZCHEF says preheats in 30 to 40 seconds. Thermoblock systems heat water on demand as it passes through, rather than keeping a boiler hot, which is why they warm up quickly and keep the body compact. The brand says the thermoblock holds a steady temperature for continued brewing, so you can pull several drinks in a row.

Touch controls and shot selection

An LED touch panel lets you choose a single or double shot, and the extraction time can be customised. Setting your own time is handy when you change beans or grind and want the machine to repeat the same volume each time. The housing is stainless steel.

Milk frothing

An adjustable steam wand is there for cappuccino and latte. AMZCHEF says it makes velvety micro-foam and that its 8mm wand has steam and dry functions that make cleaning easier. As a rule, getting good foam takes practice: how deep the tip sits, how long you steam and the milk's starting temperature all matter. Wipe and purge the wand after each use so milk does not dry inside.

Tank and what comes in the box

The removable water tank holds 1.2L, so it can be taken to the sink to fill and clean. The accessories listed are a portafilter, filters for one and two cups, a tamper with a measuring spoon and a manual.

Who it suits

The brand positions the machine at beginners and more experienced users who want a small footprint. A machine like this typically suits people who enjoy the process of grinding, dosing and tamping, and who have limited counter space. It uses ground coffee loaded into a portafilter, so you will need a grinder or freshly ground beans.

What to check before you buy

• Counter and cupboard space: measure the width, depth and height, including room to lift the tank and swing the wand.
• Cup clearance: confirm your usual cups or mugs fit under the group head.
• Coffee supply: decide whether you will grind your own beans; a grinder is not mentioned in the box contents.
• Water quality: hard water can lead to scale, so check the manual for descaling advice.
• Power: at 1350W it draws a fair amount of current, so avoid sharing a socket with other heavy appliances.
• Cleaning routine: look at how often the manual asks you to clean the wand, portafilter and drip area.

The short version

• 20 bar pump with a 1350W heater that preheats in 30-40 seconds.
• LED touch controls for single or double shots with adjustable extraction time.
• 1.2L removable tank and an adjustable steam wand for milk drinks.
• Includes a portafilter, 1- and 2-cup filters, tamper with spoon and manual.

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