Melitta Purista F230-102

£306.00 £424.99 Buy now on Amazon

Popular auto bean-to-cup coffee maker. Compact, built-in steel grinder, 5 grind settings. Customizable strength, espresso & café crème options. No frother. Simple, space-efficient: great for quality coffee at home without fuss.

Summary Rating: 🌰🌰🌰🌰 (4 out of 5 Nutz)

The Melitta Purista F230-102 is a compact, fully automatic bean-to-cup coffee machine that aims to deliver quality coffee without taking up too much counter space. As one of the slimmest machines in its category, measuring just 20cm in width, it’s designed to fit into kitchens where space is at a premium. The Purista offers a straightforward approach to brewing, focusing on espresso and café crème while eschewing more complex milk-based drinks.

At its core, the Purista F230-102 is built around simplicity and efficiency. It features a steel conical burr grinder with five adjustable settings, allowing users to fine-tune their grind to their preference. The machine offers programmable coffee strength and volume options, including a “Favorite Coffee” function for quick access to personalized brews.

While it lacks the bells and whistles of more expensive models, such as a milk frother or a wide variety of drink options, it concentrates on delivering consistent, quality coffee with minimal fuss. This focus on simplicity makes the Purista an intriguing option for coffee enthusiasts who prioritize a good espresso or café crème over the ability to create lattes or cappuccinos at the touch of a button.

It’s Known for

Compact Design

The Melitta Purista F230-102 is primarily known for its slim profile. At just 20 cm wide, it’s one of the narrowest fully automatic bean-to-cup coffee machines on the market. This makes it particularly appealing for those with limited kitchen space or those who prefer a minimalist aesthetic.

Simplicity and Ease of Use

Many reviews highlight the machine’s straightforward operation. While not entirely intuitive, users report that it’s quick to learn and easy to navigate, with a clear LED display and simple button controls. The accompanying Melitta Companion app is often praised for its helpful tutorials and diagnostic tools.

Quiet Operation

The ‘whisper quiet’ steel conical burr grinder is frequently mentioned as a standout feature. With five grind settings, it allows users to adjust the fineness of their coffee grounds without disturbing the household.

Focus on Black Coffees

The Purista is known for specialising in espresso and café crème. It’s worth noting that the machine doesn’t come with a milk frother, which may be a drawback for those who enjoy milk-based drinks.

Customisable Brewing

The ‘Favourite Coffee’ function is often highlighted as a convenient feature. It allows users to save their preferred coffee strength and volume settings for quick, consistent brewing.

Value for Money

While not the cheapest option on the market, many reviewers consider the Purista to offer good value for a fully automatic bean-to-cup machine, especially given its compact size and build quality.

Easy Maintenance

The machine’s self-cleaning functions and removable brewing unit are frequently praised for making maintenance straightforward. The app’s diagnostic capabilities are also seen as a plus for troubleshooting any issues.

Pros and Cons

Positive
  • Compact design: At just 20 cm wide, this machine is ideal for kitchens with limited counter space.
  • Quiet operation: The ‘whisper quiet’ grinder allows for early morning brewing without disturbing others.
  • Customisable brewing: Five grind settings and programmable coffee strength and volume options cater to individual preferences.
  • Easy maintenance: Self-cleaning functions and a removable brewing unit simplify upkeep.
  • Quality espresso: Consistently produces good espresso and café crème.
  • Energy-efficient: Auto-off feature and low energy consumption contribute to reduced power usage.
  • User-friendly app: The Melitta Companion app provides helpful tutorials and diagnostic tools.
Negatives
  • No milk frother: Lacks capability for automatic milk-based drinks, limiting drink options.
  • Limited drink variety: Focuses primarily on espresso and café crème, which may not suit all coffee preferences.
  • Learning curve: Initial setup and customisation can be complex for some users.
  • Small water tank: The 1.2-litre capacity may require frequent refilling for heavy users.
  • Price point: While offering good value, it’s more expensive than some basic models.
  • Limited cup height: May not accommodate taller mugs comfortably.

The Melitta Purista F230-102 stands out for its compact design, quiet operation, and quality espresso. It offers customisable brewing and easy maintenance but lacks a milk frother and variety in drink options. While user-friendly overall, it has a slight learning curve and a smaller water tank, making it best suited for espresso enthusiasts with limited space.

Key Specifications

SpecificationDetails
Machine TypeBean to cup/fully automatic coffee machine
Dimensions20 cm (width) x 45.5 cm (depth) x 32.5 cm (height)
Weight7.2 kg
Water Tank1.2 litres, removable with optional Melitta Pro Aqua water filter
Hopper125 grams
Pump15 bar pressure
GrinderBuilt-in steel conical burr grinder with 5 settings
HeaterSingle boiler (material: stainless steel)
FrotherNone

Standout Features: (1) ultra-slim 20cm width design, (2) whisper-quiet steel conical burr grinder with five settings, (3) ‘Favourite Coffee’ function for personalized brewing, (4) new pump control for optimal extraction, and (5) compatibility with the Melitta Companion app for maintenance and tutorials.

Design and Build

Aesthetic appeal

The Melitta Purista F230-102 sports a minimalist design that prioritises function over flair. Its matte black exterior with subtle silver accents presents a understated, modern look suitable for various kitchen styles. The machine’s standout visual feature is its remarkably slim profile, measuring a mere 20 cm in width, making it one of the most compact fully automatic coffee machines available.

Durability and construction

Built with an eye towards longevity, the Purista F230-102 features a sturdy plastic housing with quality finishes. The internal components, including the steel conical burr grinder and stainless steel boiler, are engineered for durability. The removable brewing unit is crafted from a robust polymer designed to withstand regular use and cleaning. While the machine feels solid overall, the water tank and bean hopper lids could benefit from more substantial construction.

Ease of use and ergonomics

The Purista’s control panel is straightforward, featuring a clear LED display and logical button layout. The front-loading water tank and bean hopper are easily accessible, though the 1.2-litre water capacity may require frequent refilling for heavy users. The height-adjustable coffee spout accommodates cups up to 13.5 cm tall, which may limit options for larger mugs. The machine’s compact size facilitates easy movement and cleaning, but the narrow profile can make accessing the bean hopper slightly awkward for some users.

Design and Build Summary
The Melitta Purista F230-102 balances understated aesthetics with practical design, emphasising its compact form. While constructed for durability with quality internal components, some external elements could be more robust. The machine offers straightforward operation, though its slim profile and smaller capacities may present minor ergonomic challenges for some users.

Performance

Brewing process

The Melitta Purista F230-102 employs a straightforward bean-to-cup process. It grinds beans on demand using its steel conical burr grinder, which offers five adjustable settings. The machine then tamps the ground coffee automatically before extraction. Users can customise coffee strength and volume, with options for single or double shots. The new pump control system aims to optimise extraction pressure for improved flavour.

Temperature stability

Temperature stability is crucial for consistent espresso quality, and the Purista F230-102 performs adequately in this regard. Its single stainless steel boiler heats water quickly and maintains a relatively stable temperature throughout the brewing process. However, some users report that the first shot of the day may be slightly cooler, suggesting a brief warm-up period might be beneficial for optimal results.

Consistency of results

The Purista F230-102 delivers consistent results once properly dialled in. The ‘Favourite Coffee’ function helps maintain consistency by saving preferred settings. The machine’s ability to grind, tamp, and extract automatically reduces variables that could affect consistency. However, as with many bean-to-cup machines, results can vary slightly depending on the beans used and environmental factors like humidity.

Speed and efficiency

This machine prioritises efficiency in its compact design. It heats up quickly, typically ready to brew within 30 seconds of being switched on. The grinding and brewing process for a single espresso takes about 60 seconds, which is reasonably fast for a bean-to-cup machine. The Purista’s energy-saving features, including an auto-off function, contribute to its overall efficiency.

Performance Summary
The Melitta Purista F230-102 offers a straightforward brewing process with customisable options. It maintains adequate temperature stability and delivers consistent results, especially when using the ‘Favourite Coffee’ function. The machine operates efficiently, with quick heat-up and brewing times, making it suitable for those who value speed and convenience in their coffee routine.

Coffee Taste

Flavour Profile of Coffee Produced

The Melitta Purista F230-102 produces espresso and café crème with a balanced flavour profile. The coffee tends to have a medium body with noticeable but not overpowering intensity. Users often report tasting nutty and chocolatey notes, particularly with medium to dark roasts.

Crema and Body

The machine consistently produces a decent crema, though it may not be as thick or persistent as that from higher-end machines. The body of the coffee is generally satisfying, especially for café crème, but some espresso enthusiasts might find it lacking the richness of manual machines.

Extraction Consistency and Customisation

Extraction consistency is generally good, thanks to the machine’s automated process. The five grind settings and adjustable coffee strength allow for some customisation, enabling users to fine-tune their brew. However, the level of control is not as extensive as some more advanced machines offer.

Milk-Based Drinks

As the Purista F230-102 lacks a milk frother, it’s not designed for milk-based drinks. Users wanting lattes or cappuccinos would need to froth milk separately, which may impact the overall quality and convenience of milk-based beverages.

Versatility with Different Roasts

The machine handles medium to dark roasts well, bringing out their rich flavours. It can struggle somewhat with lighter roasts, potentially under-extracting and producing a more acidic cup. Users may need to experiment with settings to get the best results from lighter roasts.

Aroma and Aftertaste

The aroma of the coffee is generally pleasing, with the machine preserving much of the beans’ natural scent. The aftertaste tends to be clean and relatively short-lived, which some users appreciate for its lack of bitterness.

Acidity and Bitterness Balance

The Purista F230-102 generally produces coffee with a good balance between acidity and bitterness. The new pump control system seems to help in achieving this balance. However, some users note that very dark roasts can come out slightly bitter without careful adjustment.

Comparison with Other Brewing Methods

Compared to manual espresso machines, the Purista F230-102 produces good but not exceptional espresso. It outperforms many capsule machines in terms of freshness and flavour complexity. While it can’t match the clarity of pour-over methods, it offers convenience and consistency that manual methods can’t always achieve.

Coffee Taste Summary
The Melitta Purista F230-102 produces coffee with a balanced flavour profile, decent crema, and satisfying body. It performs well with medium to dark roasts, offering good extraction consistency and some customisation options. While it lacks capability for milk-based drinks, it delivers a pleasing aroma and clean aftertaste, striking a good balance between acidity and bitterness.

Versatility

Range of coffee styles

The Melitta Purista F230-102 primarily focuses on producing espresso and café crème. It excels at these two styles, offering consistent quality for both short, intense espressos and longer, milder café crèmes. However, its versatility is somewhat limited compared to more comprehensive machines. The absence of a milk frother means it cannot automatically produce milk-based drinks like cappuccinos or lattes. Users wanting these styles would need to froth milk separately.

Adjustability and customisation options

While not the most customisable machine on the market, the Purista F230-102 offers several options to tailor your coffee:

Grind settings

The built-in steel conical burr grinder provides five adjustable settings, allowing users to fine-tune the grind size to their preference or to suit different coffee beans.

Coffee strength

Users can adjust the coffee strength, choosing between mild, medium, and strong options. This feature affects the amount of ground coffee used per shot.

Coffee volume

The machine allows for programmable coffee volume, with users able to set their preferred amount for both single and double shots.

‘Favourite Coffee’ function

This feature enables users to save their preferred combination of strength and volume settings for quick and easy brewing of their ideal cup.

Double cup function

The Purista can brew two cups simultaneously, useful for households with multiple coffee drinkers.

Pre-ground coffee option

For those occasions when pre-ground coffee is preferred, the machine includes a bypass doser for ground coffee.

Despite these options, the Purista F230-102 lacks some of the more advanced customisation features found in higher-end machines, such as temperature control or pressure profiling.

Versatility Summary
The Melitta Purista F230-102 specialises in espresso and café crème, with limited options for other styles due to the absence of a milk frother. It offers moderate customisation through adjustable grind settings, coffee strength, and volume options. The ‘Favourite Coffee’ function adds convenience, but overall versatility is somewhat constrained compared to more comprehensive machines.

Maintenance and Cleaning

Ease of cleaning

The Melitta Purista F230-102 is designed with user-friendly cleaning in mind. It features an automatic cleaning and descaling programme that simplifies regular maintenance. The removable brewing unit can be easily taken out and rinsed under running water, ensuring thorough cleaning of this crucial component. The drip tray and used coffee container are also removable for easy emptying and cleaning. However, the compact design means some areas might be slightly fiddly to access for manual cleaning.

Required maintenance

Regular maintenance for the Purista F230-102 includes:

  • Daily emptying and rinsing of the drip tray and used coffee container
  • Weekly cleaning of the brewing unit
  • Monthly cleaning of the bean container
  • Descaling as prompted by the machine (frequency depends on water hardness)
  • Replacing the water filter every two months or after 60 litres of water (if using)

The machine prompts users when cleaning or descaling is necessary, taking the guesswork out of maintenance scheduling. The Melitta Companion app provides additional guidance on maintenance procedures.

Longevity and reliability

The Purista F230-102 is built with durability in mind, featuring a robust plastic housing and quality internal components like the steel conical burr grinder and stainless steel boiler. Most users report good reliability, with the machine maintaining consistent performance over time when properly maintained. The removable brewing unit contributes to longevity by allowing for thorough cleaning and easy replacement if necessary.

However, as with any coffee machine, longevity can be affected by factors such as water hardness and frequency of use. Some users have reported issues with the plastic components of the water tank and bean hopper over extended periods, suggesting these might be potential weak points in the long term.

Melitta offers a two-year warranty on the Purista F230-102, which provides some assurance of the machine’s expected reliability. Many users report their machines lasting well beyond this period with proper care and maintenance.

Maintenance and Cleaning Summary
The Melitta Purista F230-102 offers user-friendly cleaning features, including an automatic cleaning programme and removable components. Regular maintenance is straightforward, guided by machine prompts and the companion app. While generally reliable and durable, some plastic components may show wear over time. Proper care and maintenance are key to ensuring the machine’s longevity.

Value for Money

Price point analysis

The Melitta Purista F230-102 typically retails between £269 and £399, positioning it in the mid-range segment of the bean-to-cup coffee machine market. This price point makes it accessible to coffee enthusiasts looking for an automatic machine without venturing into premium territory. The machine’s cost reflects its focus on core functionalities rather than extensive features, aligning with its ‘purista’ ethos.

Comparison with similar products in the market

When compared to other bean-to-cup machines in a similar price range, the Purista F230-102 holds its own in several areas:

Compact design

The Purista outperforms many competitors in terms of space efficiency. At just 20cm wide, it’s one of the slimmest fully automatic machines available, making it particularly attractive for those with limited counter space.

Grinder quality

The steel conical burr grinder with five settings competes well with similarly priced machines from brands like De’Longhi and Krups, offering comparable grind consistency and quietness of operation.

Simplicity of use

The Purista’s straightforward interface and ‘Favourite Coffee’ function give it an edge in user-friendliness over some more complex models in its price range.

Customisation options

While it offers decent customisation for coffee strength and volume, the Purista falls short of some competitors that provide more extensive options, such as temperature control or pressure profiling.

Drink variety

The machine’s focus on espresso and café crème puts it at a disadvantage compared to similarly priced models that include milk frothing capabilities for a wider range of drinks.

Build quality

The Purista’s construction quality is on par with most machines in its price range, though some users report that certain plastic components may not feel as premium as those on slightly more expensive models.

Energy efficiency

The Purista’s energy-saving features, including its auto-off function, make it competitive in terms of running costs compared to similar machines.

App integration

The Melitta Companion app gives the Purista an edge over some competitors that lack smart features, though it’s not as comprehensive as apps offered by some premium brands.

Value for Money Summary
The Melitta Purista F230-102 offers good value for money, particularly for those prioritising a compact design and straightforward operation. While it excels in space efficiency and ease of use, it faces stiffer competition in areas like drink variety and extensive customisation. Its price point reflects a focus on core functionalities rather than premium features.

Ease of Use

Learning curve

The Melitta Purista F230-102 offers a relatively gentle learning curve for most users. Initial setup is straightforward, with clear instructions provided in the manual. The machine’s interface, featuring a simple LED display and intuitive button layout, is easy to navigate. However, some users may need time to familiarise themselves with the various customisation options and find their preferred settings. The Melitta Companion app provides helpful tutorials and guides, which can significantly reduce the learning period.

Daily usability

In day-to-day use, the Purista F230-102 proves to be user-friendly. The front-loading water tank and bean hopper are easily accessible, though the compact design means they may need more frequent refilling compared to larger machines. The ‘Favourite Coffee’ function is particularly useful for daily use, allowing quick access to preferred settings. The machine’s rapid heat-up time and efficient brewing process contribute to a smooth morning routine.

Any quirks or unique aspects

Compact design considerations

While the slim profile is a selling point, it can make accessing the bean hopper slightly awkward for some users, especially when placed under low-hanging cabinets.

Grind adjustment

The grinder settings can only be adjusted while the grinder is running, which may take some getting used to for new users.

Limited cup height

The maximum cup height of 13.5 cm may not accommodate some taller mugs, requiring users to transfer coffee for larger drinks.

No milk frothing

The absence of a milk frother means users need to heat and froth milk separately for milk-based drinks, which could be seen as an inconvenience by some.

Cleaning prompts

The machine’s cleaning prompts are helpful but can be insistent. Some users report that the machine may refuse to brew until cleaning is performed, which could be frustrating if in a hurry.

App dependency

While the Melitta Companion app enhances usability, some features and guidance are app-dependent, which might not suit all users.

Ease of Use Summary
The Melitta Purista F230-102 offers a user-friendly experience with a manageable learning curve. Daily usability is enhanced by features like the ‘Favourite Coffee’ function and quick operation. However, its compact design introduces some quirks, and the lack of milk frothing may limit versatility for some users. The machine’s insistent cleaning prompts ensure maintenance but may occasionally interrupt use.

Comparison with other Products

How it stacks up against similar products

The Melitta Purista F230-102 competes in the mid-range bean-to-cup coffee machine market, offering a balance of functionality and affordability. When compared to similar models like the De’Longhi Magnifica S ECAM 22.110.B or the Krups Evidence EA890810, the Purista holds its own in several areas:

Compact design

At just 20cm wide, the Purista outperforms many competitors in space efficiency. It’s significantly slimmer than the De’Longhi Magnifica S (24cm) and the Krups Evidence (28cm), making it ideal for smaller kitchens.

Grinder quality

The Purista’s steel conical burr grinder with five settings matches or slightly exceeds the quality found in similarly priced machines. It offers comparable grind consistency to the De’Longhi Magnifica S, though it falls short of the Krups Evidence’s 15 grind settings.

Drink options

The Purista focuses on espresso and café crème, which may limit its appeal compared to machines like the Gaggia Brera or Sage Bambino Plus, which offer integrated milk frothing capabilities for a wider range of drinks.

User interface

The Purista’s straightforward interface with LED display is simpler than some competitors, such as the more complex touchscreen of the Krups Evidence. This simplicity may appeal to users who prefer a no-frills approach.

What makes it unique or preferable

Ultra-slim profile

The Purista’s 20cm width is a standout feature, making it one of the slimmest fully automatic machines on the market. This is particularly appealing for those with limited counter space.

Quiet operation

The ‘whisper quiet’ grinder is frequently highlighted as a key selling point, setting it apart from noisier competitors in its price range.

Simplicity and focus

Unlike machines that try to do everything, the Purista concentrates on producing quality espresso and café crème. This focused approach may appeal to purists who prioritise these drinks over milk-based options.

Energy efficiency

The Purista’s energy-saving features, including its auto-off function, make it more eco-friendly than some competitors, potentially leading to lower running costs.

Melitta Companion app

While not unique, the inclusion of a companion app for maintenance guidance and coffee tutorials adds value compared to some similarly priced machines that lack smart features.

Comparison with other products Summary
The Melitta Purista F230-102 distinguishes itself with its ultra-slim design and quiet operation, making it ideal for space-conscious coffee enthusiasts. While it lacks the versatility of milk-frothing capabilities, it excels in simplicity and energy efficiency. Its focused approach to espresso and café crème, combined with user-friendly features, positions it as a strong contender in the mid-range bean-to-cup market.

Real World Experiences

Aggregate of user experiences

Users generally report positive experiences with the Melitta Purista F230-102, particularly praising its compact size and the quality of coffee it produces. Many appreciate its simplicity and ease of use, finding it a good fit for daily coffee routines. However, some users express disappointment with the lack of milk frothing capabilities and limited customisation options compared to more advanced models.

Common praise

Compact design

Many users are delighted with the machine’s slim profile, noting how well it fits in smaller kitchens or offices.

Coffee quality

Numerous reviews highlight the consistently good espresso and café crème produced by the Purista, with users often describing the coffee as rich and flavourful.

Quiet operation

The ‘whisper quiet’ grinder receives frequent praise, with users appreciating the ability to make coffee early in the morning without disturbing others.

Easy maintenance

Many users find the cleaning process straightforward, appreciating the removable brewing unit and automatic cleaning programmes.

Energy efficiency

The auto-off feature and low energy consumption are often mentioned as positive aspects, particularly by environmentally conscious users.

Common complaints

Limited drink options

The lack of a milk frother is a frequent point of criticism, with many users wishing for the ability to make cappuccinos or lattes directly from the machine.

Small water tank

Some users find the 1.2-litre water tank too small, requiring frequent refills, especially in households with multiple coffee drinkers.

Grind settings

While the grinder is praised for its quietness, some users feel that five grind settings are not enough for fine-tuning their coffee to their exact preferences.

Cup height limitation

The maximum cup height of 13.5 cm is occasionally mentioned as an inconvenience, as it doesn’t accommodate some larger mugs.

Learning curve for optimal settings

A few users report a steeper learning curve in finding the right combination of settings for their preferred taste, despite the machine’s overall simplicity.

Plastic components

Some users express concern about the durability of certain plastic parts, particularly the water tank and bean hopper lids.

Real World Experiences Summary
Real-world experiences with the Melitta Purista F230-102 are generally positive, with users praising its compact design, coffee quality, and quiet operation. Common complaints include limited drink options due to the lack of a milk frother, a small water tank, and restricted customisation. Despite these drawbacks, most users find the machine a good value for its price point.

Sustainability

Environmental Impact

The Melitta Purista F230-102 demonstrates some consideration for environmental impact in its design and operation. The machine’s use of whole beans reduces packaging waste compared to pod-based systems. Its durable construction, with a removable and serviceable brewing unit, potentially extends the machine’s lifespan, reducing electronic waste.

Materials

While the machine uses a mix of plastic and metal components, Melitta does not provide specific information about the sustainability of these materials or their recyclability at end-of-life.

Coffee grounds

The used coffee grounds produced by the machine are compostable, offering an eco-friendly disposal option for users.

Water filter

The optional water filter, while beneficial for machine longevity and coffee taste, does create additional waste when replaced regularly.

Energy Efficiency

The Purista F230-102 incorporates several features aimed at reducing energy consumption:

Auto-off function

The machine automatically powers down after a period of inactivity, which can be set between 15 minutes and 3 hours. This feature significantly reduces standby power consumption.

Quick heat-up

The machine’s rapid heat-up time means less energy is wasted in bringing the system to brewing temperature.

Energy rating

While Melitta doesn’t provide a specific energy rating, the Purista is generally considered energy-efficient within its class of bean-to-cup machines.

Eco-mode

The machine includes an eco-mode setting that further optimises energy use, though details on the exact power savings are not specified by the manufacturer.

Power consumption

In active use, the Purista consumes approximately 1450 watts. While this is relatively high during brewing, the quick operation time helps mitigate overall energy use.

Sustainability Summary
The Melitta Purista F230-102 shows some commitment to sustainability through its durable design, use of whole beans, and energy-efficient features like auto-off and eco-mode. However, there’s limited information on the recyclability of its components. The machine’s quick heat-up time and efficient operation contribute to reduced energy consumption, making it a relatively eco-friendly choice in the bean-to-cup category.

Accessories and Upgrades

Available Add-ons

The Melitta Purista F230-102 offers a limited range of official accessories to enhance its functionality and maintenance:

Water filter

Melitta’s Pro Aqua filter cartridges are available for the machine. These filters help reduce water hardness, potentially extending the machine’s lifespan and improving coffee taste.

Cleaning products

Melitta offers specialised cleaning tablets and descaling agents designed for use with the Purista. These products are recommended for maintaining the machine’s performance and longevity.

Milk frother

While not integrated into the machine, Melitta sells separate electric milk frothers that can complement the Purista for those who want to make milk-based drinks.

Bean container extension

An extension for the bean container is available, increasing its capacity from 125g to 250g. This can be useful for households with higher coffee consumption.

Potential for Future Upgrades

The Melitta Purista F230-102 is a relatively closed system, which limits its potential for significant hardware upgrades. However, there are some areas where future enhancements might be possible:

Software updates

The machine’s compatibility with the Melitta Companion app suggests potential for future software updates. These could potentially introduce new features or optimise existing ones.

Grinder improvements

While not currently offered, future accessories might include alternative burr sets for the grinder, potentially allowing for a wider range of grind settings.

External milk frothing system

There’s potential for Melitta to develop a compatible external milk frothing system that could integrate more seamlessly with the Purista than current standalone options.

Smart home integration

Future software updates could potentially include integration with smart home systems, allowing for voice control or scheduling features.

Customisation kits

While not currently available, there’s potential for Melitta to offer customisation kits, such as coloured panels or alternative spout designs, to personalise the machine’s appearance.

Accessories and Upgrades Summary
The Melitta Purista F230-102 offers a modest range of add-ons, primarily focused on maintenance and water filtration. While the machine’s design limits major hardware upgrades, there’s potential for future software enhancements and the development of compatible external accessories. The machine’s closed system design means that significant upgrades will likely require purchasing a new model.

Conclusion

Final verdict

The Melitta Purista F230-102 is a solid, no-frills bean-to-cup coffee machine that delivers on its core promise of producing good quality espresso and café crème in a compact package. Its ultra-slim design sets it apart in a crowded market, making it an attractive option for those with limited counter space. The machine’s quiet operation and energy-efficient features are notable strengths, as is its straightforward user interface.

However, the Purista’s focused approach comes with limitations. The lack of a milk frother restricts its versatility, and some users may find the customisation options somewhat limited compared to more advanced models. The small water tank and bean hopper might prove inconvenient for heavy users or larger households.

Despite these drawbacks, the Purista offers good value for money in its price range, particularly for those who prioritise simplicity and space-saving over a wide range of drink options.

Recommendation (who should buy this)

The Melitta Purista F230-102 is best suited for:

  1. Space-conscious consumers: Those with small kitchens or limited counter space will appreciate its ultra-slim design.
  2. Espresso and café crème enthusiasts: Users who primarily enjoy these drinks and don’t require milk-based options will find the Purista meets their needs well.
  3. Noise-sensitive households: The quiet grinder makes this an excellent choice for those who want to brew coffee without disturbing others.
  4. Tech-savvy users: People who appreciate the added value of app integration for maintenance guidance and coffee tutorials.
  5. Energy-conscious consumers: Those who prioritise energy efficiency in their appliances will appreciate the Purista’s eco-friendly features.
  6. Single users or couples: The machine’s capacity is well-suited to individuals or small households with moderate coffee consumption.
  7. Beginners to bean-to-cup machines: The Purista’s straightforward operation makes it a good entry point for those new to automatic coffee machines.

However, this machine may not be the best choice for:

  1. Large households or heavy coffee drinkers: The small water tank and bean hopper might require frequent refilling.
  2. Milk-based coffee lovers: Those who frequently enjoy lattes or cappuccinos might find the lack of an integrated milk frother inconvenient.
  3. Coffee connoisseurs seeking extensive customisation: Users wanting precise control over every aspect of their brew might find the Purista’s options limiting.
Conclusion Summary
The Melitta Purista F230-102 is a compact, efficient bean-to-cup machine ideal for espresso and café crème lovers with limited space. It’s best suited for individuals or small households who prioritise simplicity and energy efficiency. While it may not satisfy those seeking extensive drink options or customisation, it offers good value for users focused on core coffee functionality in a space-saving design.

Detailed Ratings

Overall score

🌰🌰🌰🌰 (4 out of 5 Nutz)

The Melitta Purista F230-102 earns a solid 4 out of 5 on our Coffee Nutz rating scale, reflecting its excellent performance as a compact, fully automatic bean-to-cup machine. It offers good value for money, particularly for those prioritising space-saving design and simplicity in their coffee-making experience.

Subscores for key aspects

Performance: 🌰🌰🌰🌰 (4/5)

  • Consistently good espresso and café crème
  • Efficient steel conical burr grinder
  • New pump control system for optimal extraction

Value for Money: 🌰🌰🌰🌰 (4/5)

  • Competitive pricing for a fully automatic machine
  • Good build quality for the price point
  • Energy-efficient operation

Design: 🌰🌰🌰🌰🌰 (5/5)

  • Ultra-slim profile (20cm width)
  • Modern, minimalist aesthetic
  • Compact yet functional layout

Versatility: 🌰🌰🌰 (3/5)

  • Focuses on espresso and café crème
  • Lacks integrated milk frothing capability
  • Limited to coffee-based drinks

Ease of Use: 🌰🌰🌰🌰 (4/5)

  • Straightforward user interface
  • ‘Favourite Coffee’ function for quick brewing
  • Companion app for guidance and tutorials

Maintenance: 🌰🌰🌰🌰 (4/5)

  • Automatic cleaning and descaling programmes
  • Removable brewing unit for easy cleaning
  • Clear maintenance prompts

Durability: 🌰🌰🌰🌰 (4/5)

  • Robust overall construction
  • Quality internal components
  • Some concerns about long-term durability of plastic parts

Milk Frothing: 🌰🌰 (2/5)

  • No integrated milk frothing capability
  • Separate milk frother required for milk-based drinks

Speed and Efficiency: 🌰🌰🌰🌰½ (4.5/5)

  • Quick heat-up time
  • Efficient brewing process
  • Energy-saving features like auto-off function

Customisation: 🌰🌰🌰 (3/5)

  • Five grind settings
  • Adjustable coffee strength and volume
  • Limited compared to more advanced models
Ratings Summary
The Melitta Purista F230-102 excels in compact design, ease of use, and energy efficiency, making it an excellent choice for space-conscious coffee lovers seeking simplicity. Its performance in espresso and café crème is commendable, offering good value for a fully automatic machine. However, it’s limited in versatility and customisation options. The machine is best suited for those who prioritise convenience and space-saving over extensive drink variety or precise control over brewing parameters.

Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

How compact is the Melitta Purista F230-102?

The Melitta Purista F230-102 is one of the slimmest fully automatic coffee machines available, measuring just 20 cm in width. Its dimensions are:

  • Width: 20 cm
  • Depth: 45.5 cm
  • Height: 32.5 cm

This compact size makes it ideal for kitchens with limited counter space.

Does the Purista F230-102 have a milk frother?

No, the Melitta Purista F230-102 does not have an integrated milk frother. It focuses on producing espresso and café crème. If you want to make milk-based drinks like cappuccinos or lattes, you’ll need to purchase a separate milk frother.

How noisy is the grinder?

The Purista F230-102 features what Melitta calls an “ultra-quiet” steel conical burr grinder. Many users report that it’s significantly quieter than other bean-to-cup machines, making it suitable for early morning use without disturbing others in the household.

What types of coffee can the Purista F230-102 make?

The machine specialises in:

  1. Espresso
  2. Café crème (long black coffee)

It can make these in single or double shots. However, it doesn’t have preset options for milk-based drinks like cappuccinos or lattes.

How customisable are the coffee settings?

The Purista F230-102 offers several customisation options:

  • 5 grind settings
  • 3 coffee strength levels
  • Adjustable coffee volume (between 30ml and 220ml)
  • Adjustable brewing temperature (3 levels)
  • ‘Favourite Coffee’ function to save your preferred settings

While not as extensive as some higher-end models, these options allow for a good degree of personalisation.

How easy is it to clean and maintain?

The Purista F230-102 is designed for easy maintenance:

  • It has automatic cleaning and descaling programmes
  • The brewing unit is removable for easy cleaning
  • The drip tray and used coffee container are easily accessible
  • The machine prompts you when cleaning or descaling is necessary

However, some users note that the drip tray fills quickly and may need frequent emptying.

What’s the capacity of the water tank and bean hopper?

  • Water tank capacity: 1.2 litres
  • Bean hopper capacity: 125 grams

These capacities are on the smaller side, which helps keep the machine compact but may require more frequent refilling, especially in households with heavy coffee consumption.

Is the Purista F230-102 energy efficient?

Yes, the machine includes several energy-saving features:

  • Auto-off function (adjustable between 15 minutes and 3 hours)
  • Energy-saving mode
  • Quick heat-up time

These features contribute to lower energy consumption compared to some other models.

Can it use pre-ground coffee?

No, the Purista F230-102 is designed to use whole beans only. It does not have a bypass doser for pre-ground coffee.

What’s the warranty on this machine?

Melitta offers a 2-year warranty on the Purista F230-102. This covers parts and labour for defects in materials and workmanship under normal home use.

Melitta Purista F230-102
Melitta Purista F230-102
£306.00 £424.99
Coffenutz.co.uk
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