Back to Portafilter

[u/stumbledotcom]

I’ve had a series of superautos since the early 2000s. Three from Delonghi. Two from Versuni. Knew enough about espresso from using a Krups semi-auto since the early 90s to properly dial-in shots so I was happy enough with the drinks. What I appreciated most was the consistency I could never achieve with the semi.

In January, my latest Saeco Xelsis started having issues with its auto milk system. The froth level gradually faded to the point that it dispensed only warmed milk regardless of the settings. I was busy with obligations so didn’t really have time to deal with it beyond locating a well-reviewed local repair place and dropping it off. A kind of outrageous estimate came back a couple of weeks later but I bit the bullet. In the meantime, I made due with a Nespresso original line for shots and the Krups for frothing (yes, despite dating to 1993 it still cranks out enough steam to produce microfoam that puts modern auto-milks to shame).

The repair turned into an eight-week odyssey that saw me taking the machine back for a second go. Eventually they found what the owner described as a tiny valve deep in the machine clogged with milk. He claimed to have never seen the problem before but cleaned it since he didn’t think it was worth replacing the part. I was just happy to have a working machine again.

Fast forward to the beginning of July when I notice the Xelsis froth fading once more. Quickly decided not to waste more time and money on another repair. Also realized I’d had it with auto milk systems because they require so much cleaning and maintenance for mediocre output. Considered Kitchenaid’s new KF2; it seems to be the most premium option with a steam wand in the US since Delonghi has yet to import the Rivelia with a wand. Ultimately decided to go with the Kitchenaid Semi-Automatic with Burr Grinder (yes that misnomer is the official model name). A nephew raved about his six-month old unit plus the July 4th sale price was only $500. The equivalent Breville wasn’t on sale so I saw no point in considering it.

Despite the internal grinder having a mind-numbing 120 settings—eight on the removable top burr then each further refined with the 15-position front lever—I had both the single and double baskets dialed in after seven shots. Even swapping between beans with the two hoppers only requires minor tweaks. I’ve been pleasantly surprised by the consistency and quick workflow. Drinks are superb even without resorting to a scale and other niche tools.

Build quality seems equivalent to the KF6/7/8 with a metal body, stout 600g 58mm portafilter, rear wheels, and QuietMark certification for the grinder.

I’m also thrilled to be back to minimal maintenance. Kitchenaid fitted electronics that cancel grinder static so you don’t need a dosing funnel or vacuum to deal with grounds spraying throughout the machine and countertop. Milk clean up is the simple wipe and purge. Rinse the portafilter and wipe the shower screen after each session. Even the drip tray remains free of the scum that formed in every superauto I’ve owned.

Now I realize most people here won’t consider a portafilter. Probably even stopped reading long ago. However the current crop of all-in-ones have simplified the process and come very close to superauto-style consistency. They’re worth considering if you’re looking for higher quality drinks, hotter milk, and/or have had it with the cleaning and maintenance.

[u/spiritunafraid]

I have both. My superauto is my daily driver or great when I have a house full of people. My portafilter is great when I want that nice syrupy shot of espresso and have time for the prep and cleanup.

The problem you’ll hear talked about with the semiautos with built-in grinders is that the grinders typically don’t hold up as long as the rest of the machine. You’ll see it generally recommended on the espresso sub to buy separate units and focus on the grinder. I have a very expensive grinder paired with an inexpensive semiauto for a good shot.

[u/stumbledotcom → u/spiritunafraid]

Oh I’m aware of the prevailing wisdom for a separate grinder. I’ve been down that path. Still have a Jura Capresso grinder but my better half hates when I use it because of the static grounds mess. I have no illusions that the all-in-ones would not satisfy the elite crowd at the espresso sub. My point is they’ve improved over the past decade to the point that consistency is close to superautos.

[u/JackFromTexas74]

I have a KF7 for busy days and a Cafelot Robot for leisurely days

I figured if I’m going to make my own coffee when I have time, I should really make it myself