Welcome to our Calphalon Temp iQ Espresso Machine review. If you are serious about coffee-making. In this assessment, we will be going into detail about the specs, features, and incredible benefits of one of the best budget-friendly automatic espresso machines on the market.
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Table of Contents
Calphalon Temp iQ Espresso Machine Review Summary
Calphalon has two espresso machine models. One has a grinder and one without. Here are the models:
In this review, we will concentrate on the Calphalon Temp iQ Espresso Machine with grinder and steam wand.
The Calphalon espresso machine with grinder and steam wand is a stainless-steel single-shot espresso model with a few features, including a grinder attachment, steam wand, removable filter basket for brewing coffee, and stainless-steel filter basket for espresso or French press.
The model also features a 15-Bar Italian pump that delivers the right amount of pressure for maximum flavor extraction and produces a beautiful layer of crema for your espresso. It also comes with some excellent pre-programmed settings for single and double shots and a dial interface for selecting steam or hot water.
Click here to see the product on Amazon
Introduction
No two people like their coffee the same way. Most of us are very particular about how they like their morning cup of Joe, and your daily trip to your favorite barrister is always a must.
If there was a way, we’re sure that most of us would love to skip that daily Starbucks trip, especially on the days when the weather is terrible, or you’re running late. Unfortunately, many espresso machines tend to be very expensive, leading many coffee lovers to battle those long Starbucks ques in the morning.
But what if you could replicate your favorite caffeine fix without leaving the comfort of your own home at an affordable price?
The Calphalon Temp iQ Espresso Machine with grinder and steam wand might just be what you’re looking for. This machine is a great option offering excellent functionality and performance. It is easy to use. You don’t have to be a coffee-making aficionado to brew high-quality foamy cappuccinos, lattes, americanos —the works.
Related Article: Best 10 Cup Coffee Makers
Brand Profile
The Calphalon brand was established in 1963 in Perrysburg by Ronald M. Kasperzak, the man credited with discovering hard-anodized aluminum cookware. Initially, the brand was launched under the name Commercial Aluminum Cookware, as a specialist manufacturer of premium-quality aluminum bakeware, cookware, and kitchen appliances.
The target was primarily the restaurant industry. However, as the company grew and became popular, it was rebranded as Calphalon in 1992. Today, the brand produces some of the best cookware manufacturers in industrial and domestic markets.
Among some of Calphalon’s most popular kitchen appliances include ovens, blenders, and toasters. However, it also produces excellent drip coffee makers and espresso machines.
Specifications
The following are the specifications of the model:
- Dimensions: 13.6 x 12.6 x 16 inches.
- Colors: Dark Stainless.
- Material: Dark Stainless.
- Weight: 21.5 Pounds.
- Capacity: 2.8 Liters.
- Human Interface Input: Dial.
- Wattage: 1450.
- Automatic Shut Off: Yes
- Warranty: 3 Year Limited Warranty.
Features
Design
Our first impression is that the Calphalon Temp IQ espresso machine is straightforward to use and reliable. It has a classy stainless steel exterior with chrome accents that make it look more high-end.
We particularly love that the machine is BPA-free, so you’re not ingesting any harmful chemicals. Overall, the device looks elegant and sturdy.
Design Features
In terms of features, this model comes with a steam wand on the right and a grinder on the left. It also has a very simple control model that even a novice can use easily. There are also pre-programmed single and double-shot espresso settings, and you can turn on the hot water dispenser or steam wand.
There’s also a cup warming tray at the top that can comfortably fit two or more espresso cups and a tamper. The removable water tank also has a 2.8-liter capacity.
The model also has a huge drip tray with a floater that shows you when the tray is full. The floater is also removable making cleaning a breeze.
Lastly, the espresso machine also has a plastic tamper that does the job. But suppose you want a bit more consistency in your coffee. In that case, you can always purchase it with a solid metal alternative.
58mm Portafilter
This model is specifically designed for home brewing. However, brewing is always a complex task. Fortunately, the grinder makes it more manageable thanks to the integrated conical burr mill grinder that comes with 30 adjustable grind settings for fresh espresso with every use.
Additionally, the 58mm portafilter is commercial size. It provides excellent extraction due to its ability to process more coffee grounds for robust flavor.
The machine also comes with single and double shot pressurized filter baskets that make brewing easier. So, even with inconsistent coffee grounds, you should still get a delicious creamy espresso.
Thermoblock heating technology and PID temperature control
The Calphalon Temp iQ Espresso Machine with grinder and steam wand comes with digital temperature control that gives off even heat during the espresso extraction. This is a feature that you’ll typically find in higher-end models.
Thermoblock heating technology is more energy-efficient than single-boiler machines because they only heat the water when it’s in use. Moreover, the water heats faster, meaning the pre-heating setting in this model doesn’t take long to heat.
This feature combined with the 15-bar Italian pump and pre-infusion means that even those without experience can make a decent foamy espresso.
Auto Shot Volumetric Control
This machine allows you to pick a single or double shot. It will automatically use the appropriate water volume for the option you choose. So essentially, the model does all the heavy lifting for you.
Milk Steaming Performance
Most people don’t drink their coffee black, and very few take a straight single or double espresso shot. The appeal of a home espresso machine is the ability to create cappuccinos, lattes, and other creamy espresso-based beverages.
So, we’re especially impressed by Temp iQ’s powerful steam wand that creates micro foam milk for lattes or the creamy foam of a cappuccino.
The machine also has a commercial-style steam wand instead of the Panarello wand that usually comes with many beginner-level appliances, giving you more control over the milk-frothing process. However, the only drawback is that you’ll have to practice a bit more to achieve the best texture.
Transitioning from brewing to steaming milk is also a straightforward process. It takes approximately 15 seconds, thanks to the thermoblock heating system.
However, the milk frothing pitcher that comes with the machine is too small, so we recommend you find an alternative pitcher that will improve the frothing texture. Nevertheless, the frothing performance is pretty decent. However, some reviewers on Amazon complained that the machine was too loud when the frothing setting was on.
Ease Of Use
Using the Temp iQ model is very straightforward and making a shot of espresso shouldn’t be too difficult. However, if you find it challenging, the user manual is very easy to use and comes with clear instructions.
Overall, our Calphalon Temp iQ Espresso Machine review has proven that this model’s accurate brewing temperature, 58mm pressurized filter basket and coffee to water ratio, makes it one of the best home espresso machines currently on the market.
Pros
- Value for money: An advantage of the Calphalon Temp iQ is that it is very competitively priced for the features that it offers. While it is certainly not in the budget range, it is pretty affordable. Moreover, it performs far more efficiently than many budget options.
- BPA free: This means that you are safe from harmful carcinogenic chemicals
- Ease of use: This is one of the most straightforward espresso machines to use despite it being semi-automatic
Cons
- Cleaning ease: The semi-automatic design of the Temp IQ requires a bit more effort with cleaning than some of the fully automatic models
- A small amount of plastic: Despite being BPA free it does contain small amounts of plastics
- No dosing spoon: It comes with no dosing spoon, which would have been a nice edition
How does it compare with similar products?
So, the primary question is whether to buy the Temp iQ espresso machine with or without a grinder? As we’ve mentioned earlier, Calphalon manufactures two Temp iQ models; this review focuses on the Calphalon Temp iQ Espresso Machine with grinder and steam wand.
The two models have most of the same features except for the fact that one comes with a grinder, two additional non-pressurized single and double shot filter baskets, and a larger water tank that can handle 2.8L compared to the 2L on the ‘without grinder’ model.
But what if you have a little more money to spare and you want a better espresso machine in the same price range?
Let’s take a look at some of the options on the market.
Breville Barista Express
With pricing in the $600 range, the Breville Barista Express is slightly more expensive. Still, it is one of the best-selling semi-automatic coffee machines worldwide. It comes with a built-in grinder and gives you more control than the Temp iQ. Some experts believe that this is the best beginner-level machine for domestic brewing.
Gaggia Classic Pro
Another great option is the Gaggia Classic Pro, which offers affordable and premium-quality espresso. The only drawback is that it doesn’t have a built-in grinder; nevertheless, the 58mm portafilter with both pressurized and non-pressurized baskets make up for it.
This model is very reliable, and it is worth considering if you want to upgrade your brewing skills.
Breville Bambino Plus
The Breville Bambino Plus is a bit on the small side, but it produces quality results the brand is known for. It is well built and relatively easy to use and clean as well. It doesn’t come with a built-in grinder, so you might have to purchase an espresso quality grinder.
Comparison Table
| Product | Calphalon Temp iQ Espresso Machine with grinder and steam wand | Breville Barista Express | Gaggia Classic Pro | Breville Bambino Plus |
| Outer Dimensions | 13.6″ x 12.6 “x 16” | 13.2″ x 12.5″ x 16″ | 9.5″ x 8″ x 14.2″ | 7.7″ x 12.6″ x 12.2″ |
| Water Tank Capacity | 2.8L | 1.8L | 2.1L | 1.8L |
| Power Consumption (W) | 1450 | 1600 | 1450 | 1560 |
| Accessories | Stainless steel milk jug, tamper, cleaning disc, cleaning brush, and cleaning pin | Razor Dose Trimming Tool, 54mm Stainless Steel Portafilter, 1 & 2 cups Single & Dual Wall Filter Baskets, Coffee Scoop, Integrated Tamper, Stainless Steel Milk Jug, Cleaning Disc, Tablets, Brush Tool & Allen Key, Water Filter & Filter Holder | Portafilter, lower drip tray, baskets, shower screen, drip tray floater |
Conclusion
Although there are many espresso machines to choose from, the Calphalon is a perfect option if you want to brew a delicious espresso while staying within budget.
You don’t have to be a skilled barrister to make a delicious cup of espresso or latte with this model; as we mentioned before, it does all the heavy lifting for you.
We hope that our Calphalon Temp iQ Espresso Machine review has been comprehensive enough for you to make an informed decision. It should give you a fantastic dose of caffeine just when you need it.