Amazon.com Review

The friendly attitude of the FrancisFrancis! espresso machines is not just a cosmetic matter. Designed and assembled in Italy, the line’s welcoming qualities extend to the brewing process too, so making espresso in your home is pleasurable, simple, and non-intimidating. One of the company’s slimmest models, the FrancisFrancis! X3 machine is built to work with you whether you’re an espresso novice or a skilled barista. Trim, sleek, and fun to look at, it features a brass boiler and a pump-driven brewing system with 8-9 bars of dynamic pressure. The chrome-plated brass brewing handle maintains ideal temperatures for coffee, while the steam/hot water wand swivels for tidy storage.

Brewing can be done with your favorite loose grounds or the eminently simple ESE (Easy Serving Espresso) coffee pods, a pre-measured amount in a teabag-like container. The X3 comes with two brewing handles--one for loose grounds, one for pods--and three baskets to let you choose from ristretto, regular, or lungo shots. A tamper is also included.

A good choice for small kitchens, the X3 measures 10-5/8 by 6-1/4 by 11-3/4 inches, so it has a smaller footprint than many models. The water tank is accessed from behind, and controls are on the side. The top of the machine has a handsome mirror finish, adding a pleasing gleam to accent the playfully bright body. Warranted for one year after purchase, the X3 comes with detailed and illustrated instructions for pulling the perfect shot. --Emily Bedard ... Read more

Features

• Measures 10-5/8 by 6-1/4 by 11-3/4 inches; 1-year warranty
• Pump-driven brewing system with 18 bars of dynamic pressure
• Chrome-plated brass brewing handles maintains ideal temperature
• Generous water tank with rear access
• Includes handles for both ESE pods and ground coffee

Reviews (1)

The Best.
Judge espresso machines by the weight and mass of the brewing handles.The difference between this machine and the $149 Delonghi-style ones is night and day.This machine is ready to go from cold start up in 60 seconds.

This machine is built like a tank -- you get your money's worth. ... Read more