Gevi GECME022-U 20-Bar Espresso Machine: features, specs and who it suits

The Gevi GECME022-U is a compact espresso machine with a 20-bar pump, a thermoblock heater and a steam wand for frothing milk. It is meant for home use, for people who want to make espresso, cappuccino, latte or macchiato without the footprint of a larger machine. The sections below explain what the main specs mean in everyday use.

The 20-bar pump

Pressure is measured in bar, and many household machines list a high pump figure. Gevi says the 20-bar pump draws out flavour and oils for an aromatic shot. As a general point, brewing is often described as happening at roughly 9 bar at the coffee itself, so the pump figure shows capability rather than a direct measure of taste. Grind size, dose and freshness play a large part in the cup.

Thermoblock heating and temperature control

Instead of a large boiler, this machine uses a 1350W thermoblock, a small heating element the water passes through on its way to the coffee. Thermoblocks typically heat quickly and let you move from brewing to steaming with little waiting. Gevi says drinks take between 25 and 45 seconds to prepare, and that the design supports quick, continuous espresso and milk frothing.

Gevi also describes an NTC temperature control system. An NTC is a temperature-sensing component whose resistance changes with heat, letting the machine monitor and adjust the temperature of the coffee and the milk froth.

Choosing how much to pour

The machine offers three choices: one shot, double shots, or manual control, where you decide how much coffee goes into the cup. Manual control is useful if you like longer or shorter drinks, or you use cups of different sizes.

Steam wand and milk drinks

The steam wand froths milk for cappuccinos, lattes and macchiatos. Gevi says the NTC control helps produce froth quickly and smoothly. As with any steam wand, results improve with practice, and wiping and purging the wand after each use keeps it clean.

Size and weight

It measures about 12.2 x 6.1 x 12.2 inches (31 x 15.5 x 31 cm) and weighs 7.3 lb (about 3.3 kg). The narrow 6.1-inch width suits tight counters. The listing places it in the super-automatic category, but the controls it describes (shot selection and manual volume) mean you should read the manual to see exactly which steps you handle yourself, such as filling the portafilter.

Who it suits

It suits home users who drink espresso and milk coffees regularly and have limited counter space. People who like to adjust the amount of coffee in the cup may appreciate the manual option. It is less suited to anyone wanting a commercial-style machine for many drinks in a row.

What to check before you buy

• Coffee type: confirm whether the machine takes ground coffee, pods or both, using the manual.
• Counter space: check the height clearance under cabinets and the room needed to refill the tank.
• Cleaning and descaling: read how often to descale and how the drip tray and wand are cleaned.
• Accessories: check what is in the box and whether you need a tamper, milk jug or grinder.
• Power: at 1350W, it should be plugged straight into a wall outlet rather than a shared extension.
• Warranty: Gevi states a 12-month warranty for products bought through official or authorized channels; read the terms.

The short version

• Compact espresso machine with a 20-bar pump and 1350W thermoblock.
• NTC temperature control for coffee and milk froth.
• One shot, double shot or manual volume.
• Steam wand for cappuccino, latte and macchiato.
• About 12.2 x 6.1 x 12.2 inches and 7.3 lb.

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