CASABREWS 3700E-BLK 20 Bar Espresso Machine: features, specs, fit

The CASABREWS 3700E-BLK is a compact semi-automatic espresso machine in black, with a steam wand for milk and a removable water tank. It is meant for home or office use by people who want espresso, lattes and cappuccinos without a big or complicated machine. This page explains what the specs mean and what to check.

How a semi-automatic machine works

You supply the coffee and the technique, and the machine supplies heat and pressure. Fill the portafilter with ground coffee, tamp it, lock it in and start the shot. The box includes a one-cup filter, a two-cup filter, the portafilter and a tamper with a spoon. There is no grinder in the machine, so you need espresso-ground coffee from a separate grinder or a roaster.

The 20-bar pump and 1350W motor

CASABREWS lists a 20-bar professional pump and a 1350W motor, and says this gives a fragrant, richer cup. In general, espresso extracts at about 9 bar at the coffee, so a 20-bar pump describes its maximum rather than the pressure in the puck. Grind size, dose and tamping have a bigger effect on the shot than the headline number.

Milk frothing

The steam wand is designed to texture milk into creamy microfoam for lattes, cappuccinos and macchiatos, and the brand says it also allows simple latte art. Good milk texture is a skill. Start with cold milk in a jug and give yourself time to practise.

Tank, tray and first use

The water tank holds 49 oz (about 1.45 litres) and is detachable. The drip tray removes for cleaning. The brand's tips say to take the rubber plug off the bottom of the tank and run a "first use cycle" before the first brew, following the user guide. It also points to a user guide and troubleshooting guide in its product documents. Dimensions are listed as 12.0 x 5.0 x 12.0 inches (about 30 x 13 x 30 cm).

Who it suits

It suits first-time espresso makers, small kitchens, offices and anyone wanting a simple machine with a steam wand. Those who want automatic grinding or one-touch milk drinks will need a different kind of machine.

What to check before you buy

• Space: measure width and height, and leave room to lift the tank and the portafilter.
• Coffee supply: plan for a grinder or pre-ground espresso coffee.
• First use: follow the first-use cycle in the manual.
• Maintenance: descaling, tray emptying and cleaning the steam wand after use all matter for longevity.
• Water: check the manual for guidance on water type and hardness.
• Power: at 1350W it should not share a circuit with other heavy appliances.

The short version

• Compact semi-automatic espresso machine in black with a steam wand.
• 20-bar pump and 1350W motor, as rated by CASABREWS.
• 49 oz removable tank and removable drip tray.
• Includes one-cup and two-cup filters, portafilter and tamper with spoon.
• No built-in grinder; read the manual's first-use steps.

Bloiq is reader-supported. Some links may earn us a commission; it never affects what we write. How we make money.