Illy produces a wide range of espresso machines so that you can enjoy espresso and coffee in your home. The company has been a supplier for more than 5000 cafes and restaurants, and it has also started to cater to residential customers. In this post, we are going to review some of the best Illy espresso machines and see what they have to offer.
For us, Illy 60296 coffee maker is the best espresso machine because it has a one-touch operation. The compact and state-of-art design provides you with four color options to choose from. It also features dual programmable settings.
So read on to find the best Illy espresso machine that money can buy!
The Top Illy Espresso Machine Reviewed
Comparison Chart
Illy 60296 y3.2 Espresso and Coffee Machine
It is equipped with the Y3 blade that enhances the flavor of both espresso and brewed coffee. The machine has a water tank that can store 25.4 ounces of water.
Also, you can easily fit all sizes of a cup in this espresso machine. It comes with compact and stylish design and features 2 programmable settings of coffee.
The one-touch function makes it effortless to operate. Also, it works along with iperEspresso capsules by Illy.
The dimension of this product is 12.2-inch x 3.9-inch x 10.4-inch and weighs 9.15-pound. Thus, it takes a small space on your kitchen counters.
It is also accessible in four stylish colors, such as black, white, red, and blue, so you can buy according to your kitchen’s interior. However, it produces a little bit of noise while preparing coffee.
John C Cucinatti, who purchased the product from Amazon, had this to say regarding this espresso machine: “This is an awesome machine. Makes the perfect espresso. I have two others before this. This is the only one that makes me feel like I am back in Florence again at a cafe drinking the perfectly made espresso.”
Pros
- One-touch operation.
- Detachable water tank.
- Compact & modern design.
- Dual programmable settings.
Cons
- A little bit noisy machine.
Francis X1 Machine
It is another best innovation from the Illy that features milk froths and steam wand. This versatile machine can prepare multiple beverages, including cappuccino and espresso. Moreover, the steam-wand froths milk for lattes and cappuccino added yummiest flavors.
You can also heat water for preparing tea, plus hot chocolate. It has an automated shut off feature for controlled volume. The best thing is that the water tank comes with a great capacity of about 33.8 ounces. It is easy to operate a capsule for making drinks.
Francis X1 espresso machine comes with a 13-inch x 9.8-inch x 10.6-inch dimension and weighs 20.1-pound. Nevertheless, it is a bit difficult to use for a newbie. You have to follow some tips for preparing coffee or espresso.
Giorgio Ruscigno, who bought the product on Amazon, had this to say regarding this espresso machine: “This machine does a great job, espresso comes out perfectly, and the typical Illy flavor is there, at the right temperature. Great frother function too, requires a little bit of practice, but you can definitely make perfect Cappuccino!”
Pros
- Automatic shut off.
- Full versatile machine.
- Robust construction.
- Removable cup tray for support.
- Two-color options.
Cons
- Difficult to use.
Francis X7.1 Machine
The company is manufacturing the Francis X7.1 espresso machine with a unique and eye-catching round design. A control panel comes with soft-touching buttons that make it easy to use. You can prepare a rich cup of coffee and espresso.
Additionally, you can also use a modern Pannarello steam-wand for frothing milk to make creamy latte and cappuccino.
It is equipped with an auto-stop function along with programmable volume. Moreover, it consumes less power when you run it on a power-saving mode.
Francis comes with an 11.4-inch x 10.2-inch x 12.6-inch dimension and weighs 11-pounds. Thus, you can conveniently place it on your kitchen counter or tabletop.
However, the water tank of this machine is not reliable. You may face the water leakage issue if you don’t clean and maintain your machine regularly.
Pros
- Brewing cycle with one touch.
- Easy milk frothing.
- Power saving mode.
- Auto-stop & programmable volume.
- A control panel with buttons.
Cons
- Water tank leaks after some use.
Y5 Espresso Machine
You can use this Bluetooth enabled appliance for your kitchen for preparing a wide range of rich brewed coffee and café-quality espresso. You can connect it with your smartphone, whether it is iOS or Android. There are two touch buttons for preparing an espresso and brew coffee in seconds.
The company uses sturdy aluminum, plus a glass body that is ideal for your kitchen’s counter or office settings. Another good feature is that it has an adjustable tray for a cup. And this tray is perfect for any type of cup.
Illy Y5 espresso machine has a 5.7-inch x 11.2-inch x 9.6-inch dimension and weighs 8.25-pound. Therefore, it is a compact and portable machine that is perfect for small spaces such as offices and kitchens.
Lady Raven RAVE, who purchased the product on Amazon, had this to declare regarding this machine: “Very smart system. A Bluetooth machine that you can use with your phone. Easy to use very cool and hasn’t given me any problems so far. The design is great and will go well with that kitchen decor as well.”
Pros
- Compact & intuitive design.
- Perfect for small places.
- Custom beverage options.
- My Illy Machine mobile app.
- Sturdy construction.
Cons
- Touch buttons aren’t reliable.
Francis Y5 Machine
The Francis Y5 is the most popular Illy espresso machine that prepares an authentic espresso, plus classic coffee with just a single touch. The overall appearance of the device is attractive and contemporary. The touchpad worked as desired and you won’t have any problems.
It features two tanks; one for water and another for milk. Additionally, you can conveniently remove it for storage or cleaning purposes.
This versatile Illy machine can create multiple drinks for you. These include drip coffee, Italian espresso, cappuccino, latte macchiato, steamed milk, plus hot water used for making tea. The auto-stop and programmable volumes increase its functionality.
The dimension of this machine is about 11.2-inch x 8.5-inch x 9.6-inch and weighs 11-pound. It comes with a great finish that increases your kitchen’s interior. However, a cup of coffee isn’t hot enough for those who like hot espresso.
Pros
- An adjustable cup tray.
- One-touch milk technology.
- Easy to reassemble & easy.
- Removable milk-tank.
- Six beverage options.
Cons
- Coffee isn’t hot enough.
Francis X9 Machine
The capacity of the water tank is about 23.70 ounces that prepare 2 cups of espresso. Now you can prepare your morning coffee with just a one-touch operation. Here’s another benefit, it perfectly works with iperEspresso capsules by Illy.
The Francis X9 machine comes with a compact design and it is entirely frontal use or your convenience.
You can also easily remove its water tank for cleaning and refilling purposes. This machine also memorizes your previous settings, so you don’t need to configure it all the time.
It comes with a 4.8-inch x 10.6-inch x 10.5-inch dimension and weighs 11.57-pounds. Therefore, this ellipse-shaped espresso machine is ideal for an appliance for your home.
Ramus, who bought Illy espresso machine on Amazon, had this to say about this product: “Could do with a 120v 220 v switch so that it can be used multiregional used.”
Pros
- Three color options.
- Compact design.
- One-touch operation.
- Removable water tank.
- Perfect for 02 cups.
Cons
- Bit expensive but worth buying.
Illy Espresso Machine Buying Guide
There are some important features that you need to consider before looking for the best Illy espresso machine that will fit in your kitchen. In this buying guide, we will highlight some of these features and will discuss them briefly for your assistance.
Quantity
It is an important factor to consider before buying an espresso machine. If you are the only one in your house to drink the beverage, then you can go for a machine that is small in size.
Any machine that is less than 30 ounces in capacity will work pretty well. But if you do drink a lot of coffee, then you can go for the bigger one too.
Countertop space
The size of the espresso machine is another important factor that you should consider when buying these machines. A machine that is big in size and has a large capacity won’t fit within a cabinet or under your countertop.
Similarly, if you are thinking about buying a machine based on size only, then if there are many coffee drinkers in your home. They will have to wait for their cup, and this can be pretty frustrating.
Coffee type
If you like to drink different types of coffees, then you will need a machine that can make these coffees without much fuzz. Lattes, cappuccinos, espressos, mochas, or any other recipe that a machine can handle will be a better choice for you.
On the other hand, if you are more of a fan of a single type of coffee, then you don’t need this feature at all. Of course, the machines that are versatile enough to create different coffee types do have a hefty price tag on them.
Cleaning and maintenance
The cleaning and maintenance of the machine should be effortless. You should be able to remove the water tank as well as the tray with ease. You can increase the lifespan of a machine significantly if you can properly clean and maintain it adequately.
Warranty
It is better to consider those espresso machines that come with at least 1 or 2 years of warranty. This warranty should cover any materials defects or any problems with the craftsmanship.
If you can extend the warranty period, later on, it will be an even better option for you to consider.
Extra features
Some of these machines feature smart technologies that allow you to connect your machine with your smartphone through Wi-Fi, and you can control it from anywhere.
Some machines also come with dual thermostats that enable you to make different types of coffees at the same time.
With various programmable controls, you can direct your espresso machine to make your cup in some future time. And some of the models allow you to brew a varying amount of coffee as well.
Different espresso machines have coffee bean grinders in them. And then there are some more regular features by today’s standards, including the likes of auto-shutoff and milk frothers.
FAQs For Illy Espresso Machine
How often should I clean my machine?
If you use your espresso machine frequently, then you will need to clean it regularly. Coffee beans have a lot of oil content in them, and it can result in residue buildup. If you don’t clean it regularly, it will clog the machines in the long run.
You can use some simple detergents for espresso machines. Plus, you can also go through the instructions in the owner’s manual.
Which machine is better: steam-powered or pump-powered?
It all boils down to your preferences. Steam-powered models are old, and pump-powered units are the new ones. The only concern with the steam-powered models is that the pressure level is consistent.
If you focus on quality when it comes to coffee, making then consistent pressure is critical. Additionally, the pump models also have better temperature controls, and you will get superior coffee recipe outcomes.
Is there any minimum amount of pressure for a machine to qualify as an authentic espresso?
As per the IENI (Italian Espresso National Institute), 9-bar machines are the authentic espresso units. There are a lot of units that come with 15-bar pressure as well, but for a genuine espresso, a 9 bar machine is good enough to create a genuine recipe.
Boiling water going with this amount of pressure through the beans will result in super thick and creamy coffee having high caffeine content.
To Conclude
If you know what types of coffee you drink, and you don’t want to compromise on your preferences, then you should carefully consider the features of your espresso machine. The quantity, frothing feature, pressure and coffee type, size, and capacity are all important factors.
Illy understands the importance of a good cup of coffee; therefore, the brand has different types of machines designed to meet the varying needs of customers. Illy espresso machines are one of the best on the market in terms of features, value, and durability.
But only choosing the right kind of espresso machine is not enough. You need to take care of it properly if you want to increase its lifespan. Therefore, make sure that these machines also have the right features that make cleaning and maintenance a lot easier job.
