CASABREWS 5700Gense Espresso Machine with Built-In Grinder: specs

The CASABREWS 5700Gense is a semi-automatic espresso machine with a built-in conical burr grinder and a steam wand. It puts the grinder, the pump and the milk frother in one body, so you can go from whole beans to a latte or cappuccino without a separate grinder on the counter. Here is what its features mean and what to check first.

Beans to portafilter

The built-in grinder is a conical burr type. CASABREWS says it grinds fresh beans straight into the portafilter and offers 15 adjustable grind settings. Burr grinders crush beans to a consistent size, which typically gives more even extraction than blade grinders. Grind size is the main control in espresso: finer grinds slow the water and increase resistance, and coarser grinds do the reverse. The brand advises cleaning the grinder every 18 to 25 days to prevent buildup.

Pressure, power and the gauge

The machine has a 20-bar Italian pump and a 1500W power system, as CASABREWS lists. Espresso is typically extracted at about 9 bar, so the 20-bar figure describes the pump's capability rather than the pressure on the coffee. A built-in pressure gauge lets you watch the pressure during a shot, which helps in adjusting grind, dose and tamping. The brand's tips note that a grind that is too coarse, too little coffee or weak tamping can lead to inadequate pressure, and that stale beans can do the same.

Controls and drink options

The interface is a dial. The listing says you can select steam, hot water and pre-programmed single or double shots. The steam wand is for texturing milk for lattes, cappuccinos and flat whites, and CASABREWS says it can produce microfoam for latte art. Milk steaming takes practice.

Size and water tank

The machine measures about 12.8 x 11.2 x 16.5 inches (roughly 32 x 28 x 42 cm) and weighs 27.5 lb (about 12.5 kg). The transparent water tank holds 91 oz (about 2.7 litres) and is detachable for refilling, so you can see the level at a glance. The body is brushed stainless steel.

Who it suits

It suits people who want to start from whole beans and prefer one footprint on the counter over a machine plus grinder. It is a hands-on machine, so it fits those who enjoy dialling in a shot. Those who want fully automatic drinks at the touch of a button should look at a different type.

What to check before you buy

• Space: measure the counter and the height under cabinets, including room to fill the bean hopper.
• Weight: at 27.5 lb it is better left in one place.
• Beans: fresh, properly stored beans make a noticeable difference.
• Cleaning: plan on regular grinder cleaning, descaling and drip tray emptying per the manual.
• Learning curve: expect some trial and error with grind and tamping.
• Power: it is rated at 1500W, so avoid sharing a circuit with other heavy appliances.

The short version

• Semi-automatic espresso machine with an integrated conical burr grinder.
• 15 grind settings; pressure gauge; 20-bar pump and 1500W system.
• Dial controls for steam, hot water and single or double shots.
• 91 oz detachable transparent tank; about 27.5 lb.
• Steam wand for milk drinks.

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