If you’re like me and love the idea of waking up to the smell of freshly brewed espresso in your own kitchen, the Ultima Cosa espresso machine may have caught your eye. It promises the allure of café-quality coffee without leaving home.
The sleek design and programmable features make it sound like the perfect fit for anyone who wants to take their coffee game to the next level. But does it live up to the hype?
Spoiler alert: it’s complicated. Let’s walk through the pros, cons, and whether it’s worth your time and money.
First Impressions of Ultima Cosa Espresso Machine
From the first glance, the Ultima Cosa espresso machine looks like it means business.
It’s compact, with a built-in coffee grinder and a steam wand that lets you froth milk like a pro.
As someone who’s always wanted to experiment with making my own cappuccinos, this feature alone caught my attention.
Plus, the programmable options mean you can tweak the grind size and brew time to get that perfect espresso shot tailored to your taste.
But while this machine checks off a lot of boxes in terms of features, not everything about it is smooth sailing. Let’s break it down.
Pros of The Ultima Cosa Espresso Machine
- Customizability: One thing I really appreciate about the Ultima Cosa is the level of control you have over your brewing process. The built-in grinder allows you to grind fresh beans directly into the portafilter, and you can adjust the settings to fine-tune both the grind size and the brew time. This is a huge plus for anyone who’s serious about their coffee. Whether you’re into light and delicate flavors or prefer a strong, bold shot, you can make it work.
- Sleek Design: The machine has a modern, minimalist design that fits into pretty much any kitchen aesthetic. I’ve seen a lot of bulky coffee machines that seem to take up half the counter, but the Ultima Cosa is compact and doesn’t scream for attention. If you’re tight on space, this is a big win.
- Frothing Capability: For those who love lattes and cappuccinos, the steam wand is a standout feature. The wand gives you the ability to froth milk to your desired consistency, and with a little practice, you can create café-level foam for those silky-smooth lattes. If you’re a fan of experimenting with different milk textures, you’ll enjoy this feature.
- Easy to Clean Water Tank: The removable water tank is another feature worth noting. It holds a generous 94 ounces of water, which is enough to brew multiple cups without constantly refilling. The fact that you can easily remove and clean it is a convenience that shouldn’t be underestimated. No one wants to fuss with a difficult-to-maintain machine before their morning coffee.
Cons of The Ultima Cosa Espresso Machine
- Quality Control and Durability Issues: This is where things start to fall apart—literally. Several users, including myself, have experienced issues with the machine’s build quality and durability. Some report that the machine breaks after fewer than 20 uses, which is disappointing for an appliance that costs several hundred dollars. It’s frustrating to invest in something that doesn’t last, especially when customer support is lacking, which brings me to the next point.
- Poor Customer Service: Let me be blunt: if something goes wrong with your Ultima Cosa machine, don’t expect a speedy resolution. Numerous reviews mention the poor customer support experience. Whether it’s unresponsive emails or lengthy waits for repairs or replacements, dealing with their service team can be a headache. It’s a gamble, and if you’re spending this kind of money on an espresso machine, you deserve better support.
- Inconsistent Performance: Some users have pointed out that the machine’s default grind and water settings are off. For example, the default grind time tends to be too long, leading to a bitter-tasting espresso shot. Adjusting the settings can feel like trial and error, and while you can eventually get it dialed in, the machine doesn’t make it easy for beginners. Also, it has been reported that the temperature of the brewed coffee often feels too cold. So, if you like your espresso piping hot, you might find yourself frustrated.
- Return and Refund Hassles: If you’re not happy with your machine, good luck trying to return it. Multiple customers have mentioned difficulties in getting refunds or exchanges, often running into a wall of automated responses or being redirected to third-party sellers. This lack of accountability is a big red flag, especially when other brands offer more reliable return policies.
How Does It Stack Up Against Other Brands?
If you’re considering an espresso machine, you’re probably also looking at competitors like Breville or De’Longhi. So how does Ultima Cosa compare?
- Breville
Breville machines are known for their reliability and ease of use. Unlike the Ultima Cosa, Breville machines tend to have a more solid build and are less prone to mechanical failures. While they’re often pricier, you’re paying for durability and a reputation for excellent customer service.
The steam wand on Breville machines is also superior in terms of ease of use, making them a great choice for beginners who want to make café-quality drinks at home without too much hassle.
- De’Longhi
De’Longhi is another strong competitor in the espresso machine market. Like Breville, they offer a wide range of models that are generally more reliable than Ultima Cosa.
De’Longhi machines also tend to come with more straightforward user interfaces, making them ideal for those who are just starting to brew espresso at home. Their customer service is also far more responsive, so if something does go wrong, you’re less likely to be left hanging.
- Casabrews
A relatively newer brand, Casabrews has been gaining traction among coffee enthusiasts. While it’s not as well-known as Breville or De’Longhi, it tends to offer good value for the price. Several users who gave up on the Ultima Cosa after experiencing problems have reported better satisfaction with Casabrews machines, citing improved durability and more intuitive settings.
This might be a better option if you’re looking for a balance between affordability and reliability.
Maintenance Tips For The Ultima Cosa
If you decide to take the plunge and buy the Ultima Cosa, proper maintenance can help you extend its lifespan and get the best performance.
- Regular Cleaning: Clean the portafilter and grinder after each use. Coffee grounds can accumulate and affect the taste of your espresso. Cleaning the steam wand after each frothing session is also crucial to prevent milk residue from clogging the nozzle.
- Descale the Machine: Depending on your water quality, scale buildup can occur inside the machine over time. It’s essential to descale the Ultima Cosa regularly (every 2-3 months or as needed) using a descaling solution. This will keep the water flow steady and ensure that the machine operates at its best.
- Check the Grinder Settings: Periodically adjust and clean the built-in grinder to avoid blockages. Coffee beans can leave oil and debris behind, which can affect the machine’s performance. Keeping the grinder clean will not only improve the taste of your espresso but also help the machine run more smoothly.
- Keep an Eye on the Water Tank: Make sure to empty and clean the water tank regularly, especially if you don’t use the machine daily. Stagnant water can affect the taste of your espresso, and a clean tank is key to maintaining the overall health of your machine.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Ultima Cosa espresso machines are typically manufactured in China. While this is common for many appliances, the build quality can sometimes be inconsistent. Some customers have raised concerns about durability, which is something to keep in mind when considering this brand.
The Ultima Cosa espresso machine uses a 58mm portafilter, which is standard for most semi-professional machines. This size allows for a larger amount of coffee grounds and better extraction, resulting in a richer espresso flavor.
Brad Pitt is a known ambassador for De’Longhi and has been seen using the De’Longhi Magnifica XS. This machine is known for its sleek design, ease of use, and consistent performance, making it a popular choice for coffee lovers who want professional-quality espresso at home.
In Italy, where espresso is a daily ritual, brands like Gaggia, La Marzocco, and Rancilio are highly regarded. These machines are known for their high-quality construction and precision in brewing the perfect espresso. Italians take their coffee seriously, and these brands reflect that dedication to craftsmanship.
Final Thoughts: Is The Ultima Cosa Worth It?
At the end of the day, the Ultima Cosa espresso machine has its charms, but it’s not without its pitfalls. If you’re looking for a customizable machine with a sleek design and you’re willing to put up with the occasional hiccup, it might be worth a try.
However, if durability, customer service, and consistent performance are top priorities for you, it’s probably best to look elsewhere. Brands like Breville, De’Longhi, and even Casabrews offer more reliable alternatives that won’t leave you frustrated or in search of a new machine after just a few months.
So, while the Ultima Cosa sounds great on paper, in practice, it falls short for many users. If you’re serious about your espresso, you may want to consider investing in a machine with a stronger track record. After all, coffee should bring you joy, not stress.