Philips 1200 Series EP1220/04 Superautomatic Coffee Machine: features and specs

The Philips 1200 Series EP1220/04 is a superautomatic coffee machine, meaning it grinds whole beans and brews the coffee at the touch of a button. It has a classic milk frother for cappuccino and latte macchiato, and a matte black finish. It is meant for people who want fresh-ground coffee at home without learning espresso technique.

How a superautomatic machine works

A superautomatic machine does the steps of making coffee for you: it grinds the beans, tamps the grounds, forces hot water through them and delivers the drink into the cup. Philips says its brewing system keeps the coffee at a suitable serving temperature, with the aroma of freshly ground beans.

The ceramic grinder

The built-in grinder is 100% ceramic and has 12 settings. Ceramic burrs are widely used because they hold their sharpness and stay cooler than metal ones in many designs. Finer settings produce a stronger, more concentrated cup, while coarser settings suit lighter drinks. Philips describes the range as running from ultra-fine powder to coarse chunks. Matching the grind to your beans usually takes a little adjustment, and the manual explains the process.

Touch-screen controls

An intuitive touch screen lets you choose your drink. The My Coffee Choice menu lets you adjust the strength and the quantity, with three settings available for each, according to Philips. That means you can set a drink as you like it without having to measure or adjust anything by hand each time.

The classic milk frother

The classic milk frother produces a smooth foam for cappuccino or latte macchiato. Philips says it has only two components, which keeps cleaning simple. In general, any milk frother should be rinsed or cleaned soon after use, because milk residue builds up quickly. Follow the manual for cleaning and descaling.

Size and placement

The machine measures about 9.7 x 17.0 x 14.6 inches (roughly 25 x 43 x 37 cm). Measure the counter space and the clearance under cabinets, and allow room to fill the water tank and bean hopper and to remove the drip tray.

Who it suits

It suits households that drink coffee and milk drinks daily and prefer to grind fresh beans. It is less suited to people who need a very large range of drink specialities or fine-tuned control over every brewing variable.

What to check before you buy

• Counter space: compare the dimensions with your kitchen.
• Beans: the machine is designed for whole beans, so you need a supply you like.
• Milk drinks: the classic frother requires some handling of the milk, so check how you will use it.
• Upkeep: plan for regular cleaning, descaling and replacement of any filter, as the manual describes.
• Power and water: check the voltage and where you will fill and empty the tanks.
• Parts: ask about the availability of spare parts and servicing.

The short version

• A superautomatic bean-to-cup coffee machine, model EP1220/04.
• 100% ceramic grinder with 12 settings.
• Touch screen and My Coffee Choice menu with three settings for strength and quantity.
• Classic milk frother made of two parts for easy cleaning.
• Matte black finish.

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