Geek Chef GESM1009 20-Bar Espresso Machine: features, specs and who it suits

The Geek Chef GESM1009 is a compact, semi-automatic espresso machine for the home or a small office. It pairs a 20-bar pump with a steam wand, so it can make straight espresso as well as milk drinks such as cappuccino and latte. This page explains what the main specs mean and what to think about before bringing a machine like this into a kitchen.

What "20 bar" means

Bar is a unit of pressure. Espresso is traditionally brewed at around 9 bar at the coffee, and household machines often advertise a higher figure for the pump itself. Geek Chef says the 20-bar pump produces espresso with crema, the golden foam on top of a shot. In general, the pump figure is a maximum capability; the quality of the cup depends more on the grind, the dose and the water temperature.

Heating and temperature control

Geek Chef says the machine preheats in about 30 seconds and describes a stainless steel boiler system. It also lists two independent thermostat controls, one for the water used in espresso and one for the steam used to froth milk. Separate control matters because steam needs a much higher temperature than brewing water, and a machine that switches between the two quickly shortens the wait between pulling a shot and frothing milk.

Single and double shots

The machine offers single-shot and double-shot extraction, and Geek Chef says extraction stops automatically once the chosen amount has been reached. The accessories listed are a portafilter, a single-shot filter, a double-shot filter and a scoop. The listing's guide is about 14g (roughly two scoops) of ground coffee for two 60ml (2oz) cups.

Milk steam wand

The steam wand is there to turn milk into microfoam, the smooth, fine-bubbled texture used for lattes and cappuccinos. Geek Chef says the frothing nozzle is removable, which makes cleaning easier; milk residue dries hard if left, so wiping and purging the wand after each use is standard advice with any steam wand. Frothing takes practice, and technique makes as much difference as the machine.

Size and footprint

The machine measures about 11.0 x 9.2 x 12.3 inches (28 x 23 x 31 cm) and weighs 10.4 lb (about 4.7 kg), small enough for a typical counter. Check the height against any cabinets above, particularly if you need room to lift the water tank.

Who it suits

It suits people who want to learn espresso-making at home and drink milk-based coffees, and who are happy to grind and tamp their own coffee. It is less suited to anyone who wants one-button drinks, since a semi-automatic machine needs you to prepare the portafilter yourself. A separate grinder is often worth considering, as freshly ground coffee typically improves results.

What to check before you buy

• Coffee supply: the machine uses ground coffee; check whether you need a grinder and what grind size the manual recommends.
• Counter space: allow room for the machine, cups and a clearance around the steam wand.
• Cleaning: look at how the drip tray, water tank and frothing nozzle come apart.
• Descaling: check the manual for how often to descale and with what.
• Accessories: confirm the portafilter, filters and scoop are included, and consider whether you want a tamper and milk jug.
• Warranty: read the brand's warranty terms.

The short version

• Semi-automatic espresso machine with a 20-bar pump and stainless steel boiler.
• Single and double shot filters, with automatic stop at the set amount.
• Two independent thermostats for brewing water and steam, and about a 30-second preheat.
• Steam wand with a removable frothing nozzle for lattes and cappuccinos.
• About 11.0 x 9.2 x 12.3 inches and 10.4 lb.

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