Brand history
The historical homeland of all Saeco coffee machines is Italy. This is not surprising, because this country is considered the trendsetter in coffee fashion. The future giant of the global coffee equipment market started quite modestly. In 1981, Spaidem Sp. opened in the small Italian town of Gaggio Montano. A The company has released a coffee machine for home and office, which allows you to prepare an aromatic drink even for people who are far from being a barista.
Sales were going quite briskly, the company was developing new types of coffee machines. In 1999, the company acquired the competitor company Gaggia and turned into the international concern Saeco IG. In 2009, it came under the control of Philips, and the first Philips Saeco coffee machines appeared on the market.
The Saeco brand today produces various types of coffee makers, a variety of equipment for home, office and catering. But the real stars of the lineup are the multifunctional espresso coffee machines designed for home, office and commercial use.
Since its inception, the Saeco brand has relied on innovation in the field of coffee preparation. Even on the Italian market, the brand was considered a leader in terms of original solutions. Many of them were subsequently copied by competitors, which only strengthened Saeco's fame as the No. 1 brand in the Italian coffee market.
Today's Saeko, prospects
The company manages to remain a market favorite thanks to the tireless work of specialists engaged in constant improvement of models. Since 2009, Saeco has become a division of the Philips concern, which has expanded its capabilities, allowed it to develop rapidly and expand its range. Now the Saeko brand is the main manufacturer of professional and household appliances for making coffee and coffee and milk drinks.
All experts are confident that the company has excellent prospects and enormous potential. For many years to come, consumers will be able to buy innovative models from this manufacturer to enjoy the real aroma and taste of the drink.
If you need a Saeco coffee machine
for rent, you can choose the appropriate model from RUSCOFFEE.
20.09.2018
Saeco coffee machines: advantages and features
Today, the Saeco brand produces the highest quality premium coffee machines. Their price is higher than many analogues, but the model range also includes quite budget options.
Most models are equipped with a cappuccino maker: manual, semi-automatic or automatic. Its presence allows you to prepare coffee drinks with milk. An equally important feature is the built-in ceramic coffee grinder with several grinding modes. Another difference between Saeco coffee machines is the durable and high-quality plastic housing.
The devices are resistant to mechanical damage and can even withstand being dropped from a table without loss. The more metal parts there are in the device, the more reliable they are and the higher the final cost. All brand devices have a maximum pressure of 15 bar, which allows you to prepare coffee drinks at a professional level.
Experts include the following advantages of the brand’s coffee machines:
- compactness;
- a large number of additional functions;
- stylish design;
- high quality coffee preparation;
- reliability;
- auto-shutdown and auto-cleaning system.
Expert opinion
Borodina Galina Valerievna
In addition to machines for the home, Saeco offers commercial coffee machines. Their main difference is an enlarged water tank and additional functions that speed up the coffee preparation process.
Types of Saeko coffee
Almost all types of coffee are universal and can be used not only in various types of coffee makers, but also in a Turk, coffee pot or French press.
Saeco Miscela Gold
A blend of premium, medium-roasted Arabica beans from the highland plantations of Brazil, Colombia and Guatemala. The most popular variety in the line has a mild taste with hints of dark chocolate. A drink with light fruity sourness, a dense body and a long aftertaste. The aroma is bright and rich. Due to its low caffeine content, it is suitable for any time of day.
Saeco Extra Bar
The mix includes 75% Arabica and 25% Robusta from Brazil, Costa Rica and Guatemala. Addressed to those who prefer not too strong coffee. The slight bitterness of Robusta is softened by the berry sourness of Arabica. The roasting of the beans is medium, so the coffee turns out tender and velvety.
Saeco Bar
The blend contains Arabica from Brazil and Santo Domingo and Robusta from Congo in equal proportions. Strong and invigorating coffee with moderate aroma and medium sweetness. The flavor range includes notes of bitter cocoa and candied fruit. The consistency is thick and rich. The drink goes well with milk or cream.
Saeco Di Caffe
The variety is intended for professional preparation of very strong coffee in coffee shops and restaurants, since the blend includes 90% robusta. A drink with a strong invigorating effect and noble bitterness, which is softened by toppings and syrups. The manufacturer recommends this variety for coffee machines. Available in beans only.
Author of the article: Natalya Potaenko
researcher and coffee connoisseur
Your mark:
Which device should I choose?
Experts recommend focusing not on the series or price; it is more important to decide which functions are needed by a particular consumer. If a person does not plan to brew coffee with milk (cappuccino or latte), preferring espresso, ristretto and Americano, the simplest machine without a cappuccino maker will suit him. Those who like to occasionally treat themselves to capsule coffee will love the combined models.
It is important to evaluate the dimensions of the machine. Compact models with a small water tank are suitable for home use. The office needs devices with a larger reservoir and a wide platform for heating cups. For commercial use, coffee machines with fully automatic controls are preferred, allowing you to prepare high-quality coffee according to a preset program.
Service
Do you use coffee machines?
Of course! I want to try it
In order for the device to work as long as possible, it must be looked after. After each use, the cappuccino maker and the removable drip tray with grille must be thoroughly rinsed and dried. The remote cappuccino maker can be washed by simply pressing a button; dismantling is not required. All drops must be wiped off the body, and the chrome parts must be wiped until they shine. Once every few months, the coffee machine needs to be descaled using a special liquid. A detailed description of the process is in the instructions. The removable brewing group can simply be washed under the tap; this should be done at least once a week.
It is better to make coffee with bottled or filtered water. Hard water supply worsens the quality of the drink and shortens the service life of the device. A useful feature is a built-in aqua filter that softens water. It must be changed regularly; replacement periods are indicated in the instructions for the specific model.
The manufacturer provides a warranty on all coffee machines from 2 to 5 years. Upon purchase, coupons are issued that entitle you to free repairs at service centers.
Features of Saeco coffee equipment
The Saeco brand was created in the mid-80s of the last century by Arthur Schmed and Sergio Zapella in Italy, in the town of Gaggio Montano. The partners launched the production of coffee machines, which within a short period of time began to be in great demand.
Today, Saeco has become part of the well-known Philips corporation. It has established itself as a manufacturer of reliable household appliances with high quality parts and workmanship. Strict control over the entire production process is carried out at every stage. The company's assortment includes many models of coffee machines in different price categories, from economy class to luxury.
Saeco coffee equipment compares favorably with its competitors in the following parameters:
- All devices have a convenient mechanism for brewing a drink. It can be easily removed and washed without detergents with ordinary tap water.
- The control panel on all models is simple and convenient. Even people who have not previously encountered coffee machines can easily use the devices.
- The design of the appliances is stylish and ergonomic; the appliances fit well into the interior of any kitchen.
- Almost all devices produce minimal noise levels.
Best models
All the main lines of the brand are on sale, each of which has several models that differ in the nuances of their configuration. The price range is significant, but even the most budget options prepare high-quality espresso: strong, aromatic, with different intensity options.
Saeco Lirika
One of the most affordable lines, suitable for home use. The compact rectangular body, bean reservoir and milk jug are located at the rear. There is a built-in ceramic coffee grinder with different grinding modes. The body is made of durable plastic, the drip eliminator grille is metal.
There is a self-cleaning function for descaling; the need for cleaning is indicated by a light display. To prepare drinks, you can use beans and ground coffee. Simultaneous dispensing into 2 cups, frothed milk using a remote cappuccino maker.
Advantages:
- affordable price;
- convenient control;
- regulator of temperature, volume and saturation of the drink;
- an open wide tray allows you to use cups of any size and shape;
- you can prepare any drinks, including signature ones;
- The removable cooking unit is washed under running water.
Flaws:
- there is no separate tank for milk;
- difficulties in handling a manual cappuccino maker;
- requires frequent descaling (at least once every 2-3 months for daily use).
Lirika One Touch Cappuccino
Compact coffee machine that takes up minimal space on the kitchen table. The case is made of durable matte plastic, which is invisible to splashes and fingerprints. Built-in ceramic coffee grinder with 5 grinding modes. The front panel has a light display with a simple menu.
A special feature of the machine is a remote cappuccino maker, which is lowered into a regular carton of milk. There is a self-cleaning function for descaling, and a waste container is built into the body. Simultaneous dispensing of 2 cups, adjustment of coffee strength and temperature. The coffee machine prepares all types of coffee drinks, including cappuccino with high foam.
Advantages:
- small sizes;
- automatic preparation of coffee drinks;
- The cappuccino maker whips up the foam efficiently;
- large tanks for coffee beans and water.
Flaws:
- It only works on coffee beans, you won’t be able to use ground coffee;
- The cappuccino maker must be rinsed with hot water after each use;
- when whipping, the cappuccino maker makes a loud whistle;
- short cord.
Aulika Focus
Stylish coffee machine made of durable matte silver plastic.
Automatic control, light display and menu on the front panel. There is a built-in ceramic coffee grinder with 8 grinding levels, a built-in waste container, and it is possible to connect a filter for water softening. The volumetric water tank is designed for 2.2 liters. The strength, volume and temperature of the drink can be adjusted manually.
Advantages:
- Large tanks for water and coffee beans allow you to quickly prepare several cups of coffee;
- built-in cleaning system;
- The remote cappuccino maker operates without unnecessary noise.
Flaws:
- increased dimensions;
- heavy weight;
- The cappuccino maker needs daily rinsing;
- Works only on bean coffee.
Phedra Evo Cappuccino
Automatic coffee machine designed to prepare 2 cups of coffee at the same time. The laconic black plastic body is complemented by chrome-plated metal parts. There is a function of direct connection to the water supply, a built-in ceramic coffee grinder with several grinding modes.
There is a touch menu on the wide front panel; you can prepare any coffee drink by pressing one button. Cappuccino maker built-in, automatic. If necessary, you can adjust the strength, volume and temperature of the drink.
Advantages:
- prepares high-quality cappuccino with high foam using regular or powdered milk;
- works with both grain and ground coffee;
- compact dimensions;
- clear menu;
- simple, fully automated control.
Flaws:
- high price;
- There is no built-in water filter.
Philips Saeco Incanto
A time-tested model that consumers really like. Equipped with a built-in ceramic coffee grinder and a removable milk jug. The dispenser allows you to prepare 2 cups of coffee at the same time. The controls are touch-sensitive and the panel has a simple and understandable menu. Using the machine you can prepare any type of coffee, from espresso to cappuccino and latte.
The serving volume is adjustable as desired. There is a function for quick cleaning of the milk tract: after preparing drinks with milk, you need to confirm consent to cleaning by pressing the corresponding button. The model is also offered in a family version: it features larger reservoirs for water and coffee beans.
Advantages:
- affordable price;
- works on grain or ground coffee;
- the most popular drinks, the names of which are displayed on the panel, can be prepared at the touch of a button;
- retractable dispensing spout;
- does not vibrate.
Flaws:
- ceramic millstones are fragile; accidental entry of a foreign object can cause them to break;
- When preparing dairy drinks, you need to place a container under the foam outlet to avoid overfilling the tray.
HD8925
Inexpensive model for home use. Very compact, discreet modern design. Prepares 11 varieties of coffee drinks. The body is made of matte plastic and is complemented by metal parts; the tray grille is coated with anti-corrosion coating.
There is a built-in ceramic coffee grinder, a water filter, a spacious milk tank, and an automatic cappuccino maker. Maximum pressure – 15 bar.
Advantages:
- you can use ground or bean coffee;
- 10 degrees of grain grinding;
- designed for simultaneous preparation of 2 cups of coffee;
- perfectly forms coffee foam;
- The cappuccino maker is equipped with a self-cleaning system.
Flaws:
- unreliable cappuccino maker cap;
- noise during operation.
PicoBaristo Deluxe
Compact coffee machine for home or office in a signature silver-black color scheme. Housing made of durable plastic and metal with anti-corrosion coating. The package includes a removable milk jug, a built-in ceramic coffee grinder with 12 degrees of grain grinding, and a water filter. The boiler body made of steel and aluminum heats up quickly, saving time on preparing coffee.
The machine is equipped with a touch panel to regulate the strength, volume and temperature of drinks. You can use standard recipes stored in the machine's memory, or save your own using the customization system.
Advantages:
- automatic descaling;
- the brewing group is removable and can be easily washed with water;
- spacious tanks for water and milk;
- saves energy.
Flaws:
- the device is heavy (more than 9 kg);
- Due to the position of the milk jug, a wide cup cannot be installed.
Xelsis
The brand's flagship model. Available in plastic and metal cases, it is equipped with a spacious container for grains, a built-in milk container and a touch screen that helps you prepare a drink to your own taste. The consumer can choose the serving size, the ratio of water and milk, the temperature of the drink, the amount and density of milk foam.
Built-in coffee grinder with 12 grinding programs. The built-in AquaClean filter improves water quality and guarantees the perfect taste of the brewed coffee. You can prepare 2 servings of any drink at the same time using beans or ground coffee.
Pros:
- Thanks to the built-in filter, you can descale the coffee machine less frequently;
- automatic steam cleaning system keeps the cappuccino maker clean;
- you can prepare 15 of the most popular coffee drinks;
- the indicator notifies you when descaling is necessary;
- The brewing group is removable and can be easily washed with running water.
Minus:
- high price.