Krups Espresso Machine Review: The Krups Allegro FND111

Looking for a Krups espresso machine that won't evaporate your bank account? Check out the Krups Allegro FND111.

With a list price of around $100 (many online retail sites offer this espresso machine for less), the Krups Allegro is priced for the average consumer who enjoys a decent shot of espresso at home.

Although some of the more expensive Krups espresso machines use a pump-driven system, this particular espresso coffee maker employs steam to brew espresso. This steam system generates about 4 bars of pressure.

What does this mean? Essentially, when experts talk about the "bars" of pressure of which an espresso machine is capable, they're referring to how powerfully the espresso maker forces water through the coffee grounds.

The higher the pressure, the stronger and richer the espresso shot. The industry guideline for professional espresso machines is 9 bars of pressure.

For this reason, espresso purists generally dislike the Krups Allegro. They believe that a steam-driven espresso machine will result in only tepid espresso--more like coffee than true espresso.

But to create "true" espresso to please the connoisseur crowd, you would have to spend a lot more for a home espresso coffee maker. Such as in the neighborhood of $400 - $500.

Only you can decide if it's necessary to spend that much. Many consumers report that the Krups Allegro can give you passable espresso, not as flavorful as what you'd get at your favorite coffee house, but good enough for home.

This Krups espresso machine also earns praise from consumers for being easy to operate. With a little practice, it's a cinch to create espresso, cappuccinos, and lattes.

Additionally, the Allegro doesn't take up much counter space. It's highly portable, perfect for packing along on a vacation.

Compare that to some of the monster espresso machines that might brew espresso bracing enough to keep you awake for 3 days straight, yet require a crane to lift off the kitchen counter.

Drawbacks? Many consumers note that it doesn't get the espresso hot enough. Others note that it's prone to leakage, the plastic housing feels "cheap" and the machine didn't last very long when subjected to regular use.

Overall, if you're an espresso purist, you should probably invest in a more expensive, pressure-driven espresso coffee machine. But if you'd like a basic espresso coffee maker for home use that won't drain your bank account, the Krups Allegro FND111 is worth a look.

Krups Allegro Features and Specs:

• Easy-to-use, 4-bar steam Krups espresso machine for espresso, cappuccino, and lattes
• Large capacity carafe with lid and handle is ideal for preparation of popular espresso drinks and keeps espresso warm while frothing milk
• Steam nozzle froths milk and is easily controlled by oversized dial
• Removable drip tray for easy clean-up
• Compact size takes up little counter space
• Illuminated on/off switch
• 750 watts
• Dimensions: (L x W x H) 10.42" x 6.75" x 11.375"
• Weight: 4 lbs
• Available in black and silver and black and copper
• Limited 1 year warranty

Positive Feedback from Consumers:

• Easy to operate
• Inexpensive (but for best results, use quality espresso, whole milk, etc)
• Small and portable

Negative Feedback from Consumers:

• Espresso drinks are lukewarm and too weak
• Plastic design materials appear cheap
• Seal leakage issues

The Bottom Line: A budget-priced Krups espresso machine adequate for light, general use, but connoisseurs should check out more expensive espresso coffee makers.

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