Brew 
Thinking About the CraftBrew?
This espresso machine review covers the Chefman CraftBrew: how it makes your drinks, what you need alongside it, and the tradeoffs to consider before buying.
You still grind or supply the coffee and steam the milk. Digital buttons don’t make those parts of the drink automatic.
Full Amazon Product Name: Chefman CraftBrew Espresso Machine, 15-Bar Pump Digital Espresso Maker w/Steam Wand for Latte & Cappuccino, Compact Espresso Coffee Machine w/ 1.5L Removable Water Reservoir - Stainless Black
What’s It Like to Use the CraftBrew Every Day?
With the Chefman CraftBrew, you’re involved in making the espresso. Fill the small filter basket, press the coffee down evenly, lock the handle into the machine, and start the shot. It takes more attention than using a pod, but it also gives you something to adjust when you want to change the taste.
Consistency makes learning easier. Use the same coffee amount and cup size while you get started. If the shot tastes wrong, change one thing at a time so you know what helped.
What About Lattes and Cappuccinos?
Yes, the CraftBrew gives you a way to make milk drinks, but you’ll steam the milk yourself. Put cold milk in a suitable jug and use the steam wand to warm it and add foam. There’s a little practice involved in getting the texture you like.
If learning that step sounds enjoyable, a manual wand can be a good fit. If you’d rather get a cappuccino without holding the jug and watching the milk, compare one of the machines with automatic milk frothing.
What Else Will You Need?
The Chefman CraftBrew espresso machine doesn’t include a grinder. You can buy suitable ground coffee, or use a separate grinder if you want to start with beans. For pump espresso, small grind adjustments matter, so make sure the grinder you choose is intended for that job.
A scale can make it easier to use the same coffee amount each time. If you’ll steam milk, check whether the machine comes with a jug or whether you need to add one.
A Few Details Worth Knowing
| What to Check | CraftBrew |
|---|---|
| Pump Pressure | 15 bar |
What’s Good, and What Should You Think About?
What You Might Like
- Choose the ground coffee you already enjoy.
- Steam milk yourself and learn the texture you like.
Before You Buy
- You still grind or supply the coffee and steam the milk. Digital buttons don’t make those parts of the drink automatic.
- Add the cost of a grinder if you want to use whole beans.
How Easy Is the CraftBrew to Clean?
After a milk drink, wipe the steam wand and run the recommended purge before residue dries on it. It’s a small job that’s easier to do straight away.
Descaling takes care of minerals inside the water path; washing the removable coffee parts is a different job. Use the products and cleaning steps recommended for this machine.
Leave room to refill and clean it. Before putting the Chefman CraftBrew under a cabinet, check that you can open the lids and remove the tank or tray. A machine that fits on paper can still be awkward when you use it.
What Could You Buy Instead of the CraftBrew?
Not quite sure this is the one? These machines give you a few other options to weigh up. Look at how they make coffee, what you do with the milk, and whether a grinder is included.
| Machine | How It Makes Coffee | How You Make the Milk | Built-In Grinder | Who It May Suit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| VIOMI T1A | Hands-on espresso | Manual steam wand | No | Espresso and Cold Drinks Too |
| TOPZEE Espresso & Cold Brew Machine | Hands-on espresso | Manual steam wand | No | Hot Espresso or Iced Coffee |
| CASABREWS 3700 Essential | Hands-on espresso | Manual steam wand | No | A Simple First Espresso Machine |
You can also browse all our espresso machines, or answer a few questions in Help Me Choose to get a smaller list that suits your drinks and budget.
A Few More Questions About the CraftBrew
Does the Chefman CraftBrew Grind Coffee Beans?
No, the CraftBrew doesn’t include a grinder. Use suitable ground coffee, or add a separate grinder if you prefer whole beans.
Can You Make Lattes and Cappuccinos with the CraftBrew?
Yes. You’ll use the steam wand to prepare the milk yourself.
What Should You Know Before Buying the CraftBrew?
You still grind or supply the coffee and steam the milk. Digital buttons don’t make those parts of the drink automatic.
What Else Should You Compare with the Chefman CraftBrew?
Start with the VIOMI T1A and TOPZEE Espresso & Cold Brew Machine. Compare the coffee format, milk steps, and whether you need a separate grinder. The links above take you to each full review.
Is the Chefman CraftBrew Right for You?
The best choice comes down to what you drink and how much you want to do before that first sip. If the coffee and milk steps above sound comfortable, the CraftBrew is worth comparing with the other machines on your list.
Compare the whole cost before you decide. Include the coffee you’ll keep buying and any grinder or milk accessories you need. Then check the current offer and what comes in the box.
