Illy Iperespresso X7.1 coffee maker review

• A little wide in footprint on the counter top
• The machine's interface could be clearer
• Pods can't be recycled in UK

Star rating: 4.5/5

Available from Amazon (£139)

Read our round-up of the best coffee pod machines, as well as our overall review of the best coffee machines.

This machine pulls off the neat trick of making a big visual statement without taking up too much space. Yes, it’s a little wide, but the X7.1’s roughly square footprint may prove a neater match for some worktops than skinnier alternatives that require more depth. It’s a handsome addition to the kitchen, with a sixties-inspired design realised in metal and plastic.

Assembling the machine is easy enough – we recommend reading the instructions carefully before use, as the machine’s interface doesn’t provide particularly intuitive feedback. You’ll know it’s ready for use when the machine makes an affirmative noise and its main button lights up blue. The tank is easy to clean and fill.

The controls are not the easiest to grasp. There are techniques to master, including setting the pour length, and an obligatory idle period after using the milk frother.

With that said, users willing to put in the legwork will be rewarded with some of the best coffee coaxed from a capsule.

Illy’s Iperespresso range is delicious, especially the aptly named ‘Intenso’ variety. We thoroughly enjoyed using Illy’s pods to make espressos, which were especially flavourful; and lattes, using the machine’s steam wand.

Photo: Alice Ostapjuk

One major downside is that the Iperespresso pods are not recycled in the UK. They are currently recycled in other parts of the world, and we would hope to see that initiative rolled out here too. The packaging used with the machine itself is mostly recyclable, and in reasonable proportion to the appliance.

We like the X7.1 Iperespresso best in red, though it’s worth taking a look at the black and white alternatives listed on Illy’s UK website.

Available from Amazon (£139)

Star ratings

Functionality: 4/5
Results: 5/5
Ease of cleaning: 4.5/5
Value for money: 4/5
Overall rating: 4.5/5

Specifications

Supported pods: Iperespresso (Illy)
Tank capacity: 1L
Milk frother: no
Power: 1200W

Coffee recipes and tips

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This review was last updated in May 2020. If you have any questions, suggestions for future reviews or spot anything that has changed in price or availability please get in touch at goodfoodwebsite@immediate.co.uk.