Cuisinart Espresso Defined 19 Bar, 12-Cup Black Espresso Machine

I like everything about this machine. Its squarish compact size allows it to fit almost everywhere, and although it is portable it feels very solid and heavy (but not too heavy). The water tank is the opposite of flimsy. The unit heats up quickly, the controls are simple, and it makes tasty espresso drinks in a flash. I also like the fact that it has a separate on/off switch.

This machine is of such higher quality than the Nespresso machine of the same design. Many of the parts that require durability are metal, not plastic. The machine locates the water reservoir directly behind the machine in the same shape and dimensions so it is slimmer and takes up little space. It has an illuminated information panel to select how you wish to brew your espresso and what size. The pump has the higher pressure like the larger more professional machines, yet can use the small Nespresso pods and their own brand also. I love well-built things like fine automobiles, beautiful watches and quality appliances and find this beautiful machine completely satisfying. I think you will too.

I've owned this for around three weeks now and I'm very happy with it. I just don't understand many of the negative reviews this product has from others. Heating time is around 45 seconds or less most of the time. Brew times for both the single and double espresso size is quick, at around 12 to 25 seconds. I like being able to program both single and double espresso sizes along with the stand-by time. In spite of other reviews, I've had no problems with water accumulating in the pod disposal bin. Most ordinary coffee mugs and cups will easily fit under the dispenser since the cup/mug height is adjustable, and I've never had a problem with a cup vibrating off the cup holder. It's very quiet compared to other espresso makers. I would easily recommend this and I'd definitely purchase another without hesitation.

This machine exceeded my expectations. It heats up very fast, easy to use, easy to clean, very sleek and makes great tasting espresso. I picked this machine over Nespresso because it was a better value and had a sleeker design. I especially like that it takes up very little room on the counter. I use it every day and my guests remarked how great the coffee tastes.

I love this little espresso maker! It is easy to set up, use, and clean - even my husband is using it. I am drinking an espresso con panna as I write this review. It takes up very little space on the counter and it makes a pretty nice coffee. We love it!

Love the size and the sound level of this machine. Most nespresso machines are very loud, but this one is not as obnoxious. It fits perfectly under my cabinets and provides a perfect cup. (There was one brand that would not work and caused leakage, but I don't think it was the machine's fault. I'm sticking with Starbucks coffee and it works perfect every time).

I purchased this machine because of the reviews - and they are not wrong. This is a simple machine and works like a charm. I am buying one for my daughter and husband for Christmas

We are accustomed to the Nespresso machine, and i don't believe this machine has the appropriate pressure, as our coffee tastes weak. Also, it is a disappointment that there is no auto-shutoff. Also It's not possible to adjust the volume to the full cup we are used to.

Overall, it's a great machine.... When the parts work. I was really enjoying how well it brews without a lot of sputtering until after 6 uses, the lever stopped pulling back far enough to get the Espresso Capsule in. It wouldn't budge. I had to return the machine. I had specifically purchased a Cuisinart, so it was disappointing.

Sadly, I either received a defective machine or the design of this machine is just faulty. Having had several Nepresso compatible capsule machines prior to trying this one, I noticed that the Cuisinart Em-15 had a great deal of water ending up in the capsule ejection bin after brewing. In fact, the capsules were floating in the bin with the amount of water it had. That never allows the used capsules to dry out and if left a day or more, which one traditional would allow and empty the bin when full, the capsules tend to grow moldy. Since I like to recycle the used capsules, this was a problem for me. Then I also felt that the resulting espresso made by the machine was almost sour bitter, which tends to occur when the level of hydration - the hot water brewing through the capsule, is less than desired. I gather you can program the machine to make the amount of water more than the default setting, but that seems like then the default settings are off by a significant level and the ability to up the water in the brew is limited to a specific level. So I doubt finagling that setting has enough leeway to get the end result espresso truly desirable. This machine was returned because of all these issues, sadly. I wish it were a different outcome because the Cuisinart brand usually is a strong contender for small appliances for me.