When most people decide to purchase their very first espresso maker, they do so on brand name recognition. The DeLonghi Retro BAR 32 espresso machine benefits from this, but you will be happy to know that the satisfaction with this extremely affordable little model doesn’t stop once you get home. Although the price tag on this model is usually under $200, it provides a wonderful coffee experience that will have your friends coming to your place instead of your favourite coffee house. Best of all, its compact design and beautiful look will give it a prominent place on your kitchen counter, too.

Features
You don’t have to worry about a machine this affordable not pressurizing your pulls for you. In fact, the portafilter used here is made to hold both loose grounds and pods so you have quite the number of options so matter what kind of drink you desire. The boiler here is a bit on the small side, but it heats up fast and remains remarkably consistent for such a small machine. Finally, the portafilter is equipped with a tool that always results in a rich, think crema every time you brew a shot.
Convenience
Although this model is not fully automatic, it does make the brewing process simple. The DeLonghi Retro BAR 32 espresso machine uses a top quality frothing wand that will get your milk up to temperature and extra frothy in seconds and the boiler here allows for a quick switch over from pulling shots to steaming milk. Both the water tank and the drip tray are completely removable, which makes clean up a snap, as well. Overall, this model provides a straight ahead coffee drinking experience that takes very little training or experience to enjoy.
Style
Along with the value, the style of this tiny machine is its best attribute. Many machines that fall into the “affordable” category tend to be a bit unsightly, but in this case, that stereotype doesn’t apply. DeLonghi Retro BAR 32 espresso machines have a rounded look that almost gives the machine a bubble-like appearance. It is an incredibly compact model with a tiny footprint, which makes it perfect for apartments or small kitchens. You will need to be careful of the portafilter when not in use as it sticks out quite a ways from the body of the machine. The silver control panel is very well laid out and easy to use.
Value
The value department is where this model really excels. Even coffee snobs are shocked to taste the high quality coffee drinks that the DeLonghi Retro BAR 32 espresso machine is capable of making. Once you taste how professional this machine can be, you might completely stop going out to your favourite coffee shop. Best of all, this model will help you save time, as well as money. You do have to let the boiler heat up, but it really doesn’t take that long. The value of this little go getter is truly amazing.
What People Are Saying
Overall, reviews of this model are positive, although some hard core coffee fanatics may find fault with such an inexpensive machine. There are some reports that the boiler simply isn’t capable of heating the water to a hot enough temperature for some people, but for novice and intermediate fans of cappuccinos, it is unlikely that you will notice. Among folks who are bringing home their very first coffee maker, the reviews for this model are sterling. It may take a little trial and error to get the controls right, but once you do, you will likely fall in love with this affordable maker.
Conclusion
If you are new to the coffee game and you are sick of paying inflated prices at your local coffee house, this machine will more than meet your expectations. Yes, brewing at home can be a bit messy, but once you sip your very own freshly made latte, you will understand why so many people take this kind of thing so seriously. This model has the pedigree, the functions and the refinement for any coffee fanatic. Don’t be surprised if your local barista tracks you down after you buy this model to find out why you don’t come in any longer.



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