Gevi Espresso Machine 20 Bar High Pressure Review

The Gevi 20 Bar Espresso Machine offers impressive features like a thermoblock system and dual thermostats, making it a strong, budget-friendly choice for home baristas.

By Alpine Mountain Coffee

When it comes to brewing the perfect cup of espresso at home, the market is flooded with countless options, ranging from high-end machines that cost thousands of dollars to more affordable models designed for the casual coffee enthusiast. The Gevi 20 Bar Espresso Machine falls into the latter category, positioning itself as a budget-friendly option that promises to deliver high-quality espresso at a fraction of the cost of its competitors. But does it live up to the hype? In this comprehensive review, we’ll dive into the details of the Gevi 20 Bar Espresso Machine, exploring its features, performance, and overall value to help you decide if it’s the right choice for your home brewing setup.

Affordable with advanced features.
Compact and lightweight design.
Quick 45-second heating.
Customizable shot volumes.
Consistent temperature with dual thermostats.

Plastic construction feels flimsy.
Limited steam wand range.
No touchscreen, manual operation.
Flimsy plastic tamper.
Limited clearance for tall cups.

Design and Build Quality

At first glance, the Gevi 20 Bar Espresso Machine presents itself as a compact and lightweight appliance, making it an ideal choice for those with limited counter space or for individuals who often find themselves on the move, such as van-lifers or RV enthusiasts. The machine’s sleek, minimalist design is accented with stainless steel, giving it a modern appearance that fits well in most kitchen aesthetics. However, a closer inspection reveals that much of the machine’s construction is dominated by plastic components, which can be a double-edged sword.

On the positive side, the use of plastic keeps the machine lightweight and easy to handle, especially when it comes to moving or storing it. However, this also means that the build quality may feel somewhat flimsy compared to more robust, stainless steel models. Some users have reported that the machine can feel unsteady when locking the portafilter into place, which could be a point of concern for those who are accustomed to more solidly built espresso machines.

One area where the Gevi 20 Bar Espresso Machine shines, despite its plastic-heavy construction, is in its compact design. Measuring just 11.3 x 12.3 x 1.6 inches and weighing around 9 pounds, the machine is small enough to fit into tight spaces yet substantial enough to produce a quality espresso shot.

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Key Features of the Gevi 20 Bar Espresso Machine

The Gevi 20 Bar Espresso Machine is packed with a variety of features that are both impressive and practical, especially for a machine at its price point. Each feature contributes to its overall performance, making it a strong contender in the budget espresso machine market. Below, we delve into some of these key features in greater detail.

1. 20 Bar Pressure System

The Gevi 20 Bar Espresso Machine’s pressure system is one of its most highlighted features. The machine operates with a maximum pressure of 20 bars, which is higher than the 9 bars typically required for optimal espresso extraction. While many espresso machines on the market advertise similar high-pressure systems, it’s important to understand what this means for your coffee.

In espresso brewing, pressure is critical as it forces hot water through the finely-ground coffee, extracting flavors and creating the characteristic crema on top of your espresso. The industry standard is 9 bars of pressure, which is generally sufficient to produce a rich, flavorful espresso. The Gevi’s 20-bar system is designed to ensure that the machine can consistently reach and maintain this pressure level, potentially allowing for more robust extraction and better crema.

However, in practical terms, most home machines, including the Gevi, rarely sustain the full 20 bars of pressure throughout the extraction process. Instead, they tend to stabilize around 9 to 15 bars, which is still more than adequate for making high-quality espresso. The higher initial pressure may help in ensuring a more thorough saturation of the coffee grounds, which could enhance the flavor profile, particularly when using finer grinds.

2. Thermoblock Heating System

One of the standout features of the Gevi 20 Bar Espresso Machine is its thermoblock heating system. Unlike traditional espresso machines that use a boiler to heat water, a thermoblock system heats water on demand as it passes through the block. This results in several advantages:

Rapid Heating: The thermoblock system significantly reduces the preheating time, allowing the machine to reach brewing temperature in just about 45 seconds. This is a notable improvement over traditional boiler systems, which can take several minutes to heat up. For users who want their coffee quickly, especially in the morning rush, this is a major plus.
Energy Efficiency: Because the thermoblock heats only the amount of water needed for each shot, it tends to be more energy-efficient than traditional boilers, which maintain a reservoir of hot water. This efficiency not only reduces energy consumption but also minimizes the wait time between brewing espresso and steaming milk.
Consistent Temperature: The thermoblock’s design ensures a consistent water temperature throughout the brewing process, which is crucial for extracting the full range of flavors from the coffee grounds. Temperature stability is one of the keys to making great espresso, and the Gevi 20 Bar Espresso Machine’s thermoblock system is engineered to maintain this stability.

3. Dual Thermostats

Temperature control is another area where the Gevi 20 Bar Espresso Machine excels, thanks to its dual thermostat system. This feature addresses a common issue in many budget espresso machines: the difficulty of maintaining the correct temperature for both brewing espresso and steaming milk.

Espresso and Steam Separation: The dual thermostats in the Gevi machine allow for separate temperature control for the espresso brewing process and the steam wand. Brewing espresso typically requires water heated to about 90–96°C (194–205°F), while steaming milk needs a higher temperature. In machines with a single thermostat, switching between brewing and steaming often results in temperature fluctuations, which can affect the quality of both the espresso and the frothed milk.
Improved Consistency: With dual thermostats, the Gevi 20 Bar Espresso Machine ensures that each process is performed at the optimal temperature. This separation enhances consistency, allowing users to brew espresso immediately after steaming milk without worrying about overheating or under-extraction.

This feature is particularly beneficial for users who enjoy milk-based espresso drinks like lattes and cappuccinos, as it helps maintain the integrity of both the espresso and the milk foam.

4. Manual Steam Wand

The Gevi 20 Bar Espresso Machine is equipped with a manual steam wand, which allows users to froth milk for drinks like cappuccinos, lattes, and macchiatos. While manual steam wands are common in espresso machines, the design and performance of Gevi’s steam wand have some unique aspects worth noting.

Panarello Wand Design: The steam wand is a panarello type, which is generally easier to use for beginners. A panarello wand incorporates a sleeve that helps inject air into the milk, making it easier to create froth. While this design is user-friendly, it’s typically less capable of producing the microfoam necessary for advanced latte art. That said, with practice, users can still achieve a satisfactory foam texture for most milk-based drinks.
Stainless Steel Construction: The steam wand features a stainless steel design, which is both durable and easy to clean. Near the top of the wand, there’s a heat shield that allows users to adjust the wand without risking burns, making it safer to handle, especially when the wand is hot.
Limited Range of Motion: One limitation of the steam wand is its range of motion. Unlike some higher-end machines that offer steam wands with ball joints for greater flexibility, the Gevi’s wand is somewhat restricted in its movement. This may make it a bit more challenging to position the wand correctly in the milk pitcher, particularly when trying to achieve specific froth textures.

5. LED Display

The inclusion of an LED display on the Gevi 20 Bar Espresso Machine is a feature that enhances its usability, particularly for beginners who might be intimidated by more complex espresso machines. The display is straightforward and intuitive, providing clear indicators for various stages of the brewing process.

Clear Interface: The LED screen shows icons that represent different functions, such as brewing single or double shots of espresso. This visual guide simplifies the operation, reducing the likelihood of errors, especially for users who are new to making espresso at home.
Progress Indicators: The display also flashes to indicate when the machine is heating up and when it’s ready to brew, which takes the guesswork out of the process. This is particularly useful for ensuring that the machine has reached the correct temperature before extraction begins, which is crucial for achieving the best possible flavor.
No Touchscreen Capability: It’s worth noting that the LED display is not a touchscreen, so users still need to operate the machine using the buttons and knob. While this might be seen as a drawback by some, it also means there’s less complexity in the machine’s operation, which can be a plus for those who prefer a more hands-on approach.

6. Compact and Lightweight Design

The compact and lightweight design of the Gevi 20 Bar Espresso Machine is one of its most appealing features, particularly for those with limited kitchen space or for users who value portability.

Space-Saving Footprint: With dimensions of just 11.3 x 12.3 x 1.6 inches, the Gevi 20 Bar Espresso Machine is small enough to fit comfortably on most kitchen counters, even in tight spaces. This makes it an ideal choice for apartment dwellers, students, or anyone with a smaller kitchen setup.
Portability: Weighing around 9 pounds, the machine is light enough to be easily moved if necessary, whether that’s to store it away when not in use or to take it on the road in an RV or camper. This portability is a significant advantage for those who like to enjoy espresso while traveling.
Aesthetic Appeal: Despite its budget-friendly price, the Gevi 20 Bar Espresso Machine boasts a modern, sleek design that can complement a variety of kitchen decors. The stainless steel accents give it a more premium look, even though the machine is primarily constructed from plastic.

7. Programmable Shot Volumes

The Gevi 20 Bar Espresso Machine allows users to program the volume of water used for both single and double shots of espresso. This customization is a valuable feature for those who like to tailor their espresso to their specific preferences.

Customizable Extraction: By pressing and holding the shot button, users can enter a programming mode that lets them adjust the amount of water used during extraction. This feature enables users to fine-tune the strength and volume of their espresso, whether they prefer a more concentrated shot or a longer extraction.
Ease of Use: Once the desired volume is set, the machine will automatically stop the extraction at the programmed point, making it easier to achieve consistent results with every use. This is especially beneficial for users who may not have the experience or the desire to manually stop the extraction each time.

8. Auto Shut-Off Feature

Safety and energy efficiency are key considerations in any kitchen appliance, and the Gevi 20 Bar Espresso Machine includes an auto shut-off feature that addresses both concerns.

Automatic Power Down: After 15 minutes of inactivity, the machine automatically powers down, which helps to conserve energy and provides peace of mind for users who may forget to turn the machine off after use. This feature is particularly useful for busy households where distractions might lead to appliances being left on accidentally.
Energy Efficiency: The auto shut-off feature not only enhances safety but also contributes to the machine’s overall energy efficiency, reducing electricity usage and potentially lowering utility bills.

9. Additional Features and Accessories

While the Gevi 20 Bar Espresso Machine includes several core features that enhance its functionality, there are a few additional aspects worth noting:

Cup Warmer: The top of the machine doubles as a cup warmer, which helps to keep your espresso cups warm before brewing. This feature ensures that your espresso stays hot longer, as cold cups can cause the coffee to cool down too quickly.
Plastic Tamper: The machine comes with a plastic tamper that doubles as a measuring scoop. While functional, the plastic construction may feel a bit flimsy, and serious espresso enthusiasts might want to upgrade to a sturdier stainless steel tamper for better results.
Removable Drip Tray: The drip tray is removable, which makes cleaning easier and allows for slightly taller cups to be used. However, users might find that even with the tray removed, the machine’s clearance may not accommodate all cup sizes, particularly travel mugs.

In summary, the Gevi 20 Bar Espresso Machine offers a robust set of features for its price, making it a compelling option for both beginners and experienced home baristas. While it does have some limitations, particularly in terms of build quality and steam control, its range of features—such as the thermoblock heating system, dual thermostats, and programmable shot volumes—make it a standout in the budget espresso machine market.

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Performance and Usability

When it comes to performance, the Gevi 20 Bar Espresso Machine delivers a solid cup of espresso, especially considering its price. The 20 bar pressure system ensures a consistent extraction, and the thermoblock heating system means you don’t have to wait long to start brewing. However, it’s important to note that while the machine promises 20 bars of pressure, in practice, it typically operates closer to the industry-standard 9 bars. This is still sufficient for producing a good espresso, but it’s something to keep in mind if you’re expecting industrial-level performance.

In terms of usability, the Gevi 20 Bar Espresso Machine is fairly straightforward. The LED screen is a helpful addition, particularly for those who are new to espresso machines. The machine’s interface is intuitive, with clearly labeled buttons for single and double shots, as well as a knob for controlling the steam wand. One downside, however, is the lack of control over the steam output. The wand has a single setting, which may limit your ability to fine-tune the milk frothing process.

Another area where the machine could improve is in its handling of different cup sizes. While the drip tray is removable, allowing for slightly taller cups, it’s still not able to accommodate larger mugs or travel thermoses. This could be a minor inconvenience for those who like to take their coffee on the go.

Cleaning and Maintenance

Maintaining the Gevi 20 Bar Espresso Machine is relatively simple, although it does require regular attention to keep it running smoothly. The machine needs to be descaled every few months, depending on how frequently it’s used and the hardness of your water. Gevi recommends using a citric acid descaler, which is a common and effective solution.

Daily maintenance involves purging the steam wand after each use to prevent milk residue from building up. The machine also has a pressure relief hole on the drip tray, which helps manage excess pressure but doesn’t clean the wand itself, so manual cleaning is necessary. Additionally, all components, including the water tank, portafilter, and exterior, should be wiped down with a damp cloth to keep them in good condition.

One feature that adds convenience is the auto shut-off function, which powers down the machine after 15 minutes of inactivity. This not only saves energy but also provides peace of mind if you forget to turn off the machine before leaving the house.

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Value for Money

The Gevi 20 Bar Espresso Machine offers excellent value for money, particularly for those who are new to espresso brewing or are looking for an affordable secondary machine. Priced competitively, it includes features that are typically found in more expensive models, such as the thermoblock heating system and dual thermostats. However, it’s important to set realistic expectations—while the Gevi 20 Bar Espresso Machine offers great value, it doesn’t quite match the performance or durability of higher-end machines.

In comparison to similar models, the Gevi 20 Bar Espresso Machine holds its own. For instance, it outperforms the DeLonghi ECP3420 in terms of features and usability, despite the DeLonghi’s slightly higher price. However, it’s worth noting that the Gevi machine’s build quality may not be as robust as some of its competitors, which could impact its longevity.

Final Verdict

The Gevi 20 Bar Espresso Machine is a solid choice for anyone looking to explore the world of espresso without breaking the bank. Its compact design, user-friendly interface, and advanced features make it an attractive option for both beginners and seasoned coffee enthusiasts. While it does have some limitations, particularly in terms of build quality and steam control, it offers a lot of value for its price.

If you’re in the market for an affordable, easy-to-use espresso machine that can deliver a decent cup of coffee, the Gevi 20 Bar Espresso Machine is definitely worth considering. Just be sure to handle it with care, and don’t expect it to replace a high-end model in terms of performance and durability. Overall, it’s a great entry-level machine that offers a taste of more advanced espresso-making without the hefty price tag.