As a coffee enthusiast always on the lookout for the perfect brew, I was intrigued when I came across the Philips L’OR Barista System Coffee and Espresso Machine Combo.
This sleek, matte black machine promised to deliver both espresso and coffee using a variety of compatible pods, including Nespresso originals and L’OR’s own capsules. Curious about its versatility and quality, I decided to put it through its paces in my own kitchen.
After several weeks of extensive testing, I can confidently say that this machine has earned its place on my countertop. It offers an impressive blend of convenience, quality, and versatility that sets it apart from many single-serve coffee makers I’ve tried in the past.
While it’s not without its quirks, the L’OR Barista System has proven to be a reliable and enjoyable addition to my daily coffee routine. In this review, I’ll dive deep into my experience with this machine, exploring everything from its design and functionality to its overall value for money.
Product Overview
The Philips L’OR Barista System Coffee and Espresso Machine Combo is a versatile pod-based coffee maker that aims to provide cafe-quality drinks at home. Key features include:
- Compatibility with both L’OR and Nespresso Original capsules
- Ability to brew both coffee and espresso
- 19 bar pressure pump for espresso extraction
- 40-ounce detachable water tank
- Dual capsule recognition technology
- Three size settings for both coffee and espresso
- Fast 25-second heat-up time
- Used capsule container that holds 8-12 pods
The machine measures approximately 11 inches tall, 7 inches wide, and 16 inches deep, making it larger than some competitors but still reasonably compact for its capabilities. The package includes the machine itself, a user manual, and in some cases, a sample pack of L’OR capsules.
- WIDE CAPSULE SELECTION: Select any L'OR high-quality coffee and espresso to fit your mood or time of day; made in France in sustainable aluminum, RANGE OF DELICIOUS FLAVORS & BLENDS: light to dark roast, high to low intensity; decaf options
- CAFE-INSPIRED QUALITY: L'OR BARISTA single-serve brewer pours 6 SIZES OF COFFEE AND ESPRESSO to help make your favorite HOT OR ICED coffee, latte, cappuccino, iced coffee and more, for a French cafe experience right at home from sustainable sources
- EUROPEAN CRAFTSMANSHIP: Philips manufactured pod coffee maker automatically detects selected capsule (coffee or espresso) and adjusts brew volume accordingly; FAST: heats in 25 seconds, REFILL LESS with 40 oz water tank; 2 year limited warranty
- CAPSULE COMPATIBILITY: Brews L'OR single-serve coffee and espresso capsules, Peet's Coffee single-serve capsules exclusively made for L'OR, and *Nespresso Original machine capsules. L'OR is not affiliated with the *Nespresso brand.
Upon unboxing, I was immediately impressed by the machine’s sleek, modern design. The matte black finish gives it a premium look that would complement most kitchen decors. The build quality felt solid, with no flimsy parts or cheap plastics evident.
One of the standout features is the dual capsule recognition technology. This allows the machine to automatically adjust its brewing parameters based on whether you’ve inserted a coffee or espresso capsule, eliminating the need for manual adjustments.
The three size settings offer good versatility:
– For coffee: 5 oz (small), 8 oz (medium), or 12 oz (large)
– For espresso: 1.4 oz (small), 3 oz (medium), or 4 oz (large)
This range of options caters to various preferences and drink styles, from a quick espresso shot to a full mug of coffee.
The 40-ounce water tank is generously sized compared to many pod-based machines, reducing the frequency of refills. However, it’s worth noting that making larger cups of coffee does deplete the reservoir more quickly.
Overall, the L’OR Barista System presents itself as a well-thought-out machine that aims to offer the convenience of pod-based brewing without sacrificing drink quality or variety.
Design and Build Quality
The Philips L’OR Barista System makes a strong first impression with its sleek, modern aesthetic. The matte black finish gives it a premium look that would easily fit into most kitchen designs, whether contemporary or traditional. The machine’s profile is clean and uncluttered, with minimal branding and a focus on functional design.
In terms of build quality, the L’OR Barista System feels solid and well-constructed. The materials used appear to be of high quality, with no cheap plastics or flimsy components evident. The water tank, while plastic, has a sturdy feel and slots securely into place. The lever mechanism for inserting pods feels smooth and robust, inspiring confidence in its longevity.
One design element that stands out is the tall lid that opens vertically to access the pod compartment. While this contributes to the machine’s sleek look, it does require additional clearance space above the machine – something to consider if you plan to place it under cabinets. In my kitchen, it just barely cleared the overhead cupboards.
The user interface is straightforward and intuitive. The power button and three size selection buttons are clearly labeled and responsive. The drip tray is removable and can be adjusted to accommodate different cup sizes, which I found to be a thoughtful touch.
From an ergonomic perspective, the machine is generally user-friendly. The water tank is easy to remove and refill, and the used capsule container is simple to access and empty. However, the container for used capsules can get quite wet, which can lead to messy disposal if you’re not careful.
One minor quibble is with the instruction manual. While the machine itself is well-designed, the setup instructions could be clearer. The reliance on pictograms rather than written instructions sometimes led to confusion, particularly when it came to identifying and placing some of the removable parts.
Despite these small issues, the overall design and build quality of the L’OR Barista System is impressive. It strikes a good balance between aesthetic appeal and functional design, with a solid construction that suggests it’s built to last.
Performance and Functionality
After several weeks of daily use, I can confidently say that the Philips L’OR Barista System delivers impressive performance in both its coffee and espresso-making capabilities.
Starting with espresso, the machine’s 19-bar pressure pump produces a rich, flavorful shot with a beautiful crema. After a brief break-in period (during which the espresso seemed a bit watery), the quality consistently matched what I’d expect from a good cafe. The ability to choose between single and double shots (using the size selector) is a nice touch, allowing for customization based on personal preference or recipe requirements.
The coffee brewing function also impressed me. Unlike some pod-based systems I’ve tried in the past, the L’OR Barista produced full-bodied, flavorful cups of coffee that satisfied my “snooty coffee tastes.” The larger coffee pods contain more grounds than typical single-serve options, resulting in a more robust brew.
One of the standout features is the machine’s versatility. Being able to use both L’OR and Nespresso Original capsules provides a wide range of flavor options. I appreciated the ability to stick with familiar Nespresso blends while also exploring L’OR’s offerings. The L’OR capsules, in particular, delivered excellent taste at a lower price point than Nespresso.
The dual capsule recognition technology works seamlessly. I never had to manually adjust settings when switching between coffee and espresso pods – the machine automatically optimized the brewing process.
Speed is another strong point. The 25-second heat-up time is impressive, and you can have a shot of espresso ready in under 30 seconds or a full mug of coffee in about a minute. This quick brewing, combined with the large water tank and used capsule container, makes the machine extremely convenient for daily use.
In terms of temperature, my measurements showed the water peaking at about 175-180°F (80°C) during extraction. While not adjustable, this temperature range produced consistently good results across various pod types.
Compared to other machines I’ve used, the L’OR Barista System stands out for its combination of versatility and quality. It offers more options than a standard Nespresso machine while maintaining comparable espresso quality. And unlike some Keurig models I’ve tried, it excels at both coffee and espresso preparation.
One area where the L’OR Barista particularly shines is its noise level. It operates much more quietly than many espresso machines I’ve used, making it pleasant to use even early in the morning.
Overall, the performance of the L’OR Barista System exceeded my expectations. It consistently delivered cafe-quality drinks with minimal effort, making it a joy to use on a daily basis.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Versatility: Ability to make both coffee and espresso using various compatible pods.
- Quality of Brew: Produces rich, flavorful coffee and espresso with good crema.
- Speed: Fast heat-up and brewing times for quick drink preparation.
- Large Capacity: 40-ounce water tank and sizeable used capsule container reduce frequent refills/emptying.
- Quiet Operation: Significantly less noisy than many competitor machines.
Cons:
- Size: Larger footprint compared to some single-function espresso machines.
- Clearance Requirements: Tall lid needs extra vertical space, which may limit placement options.
- Messy Used Capsule Disposal: The used capsule container can get quite wet, potentially leading to spills during emptying.
User Experience
My day-to-day experience with the Philips L’OR Barista System has been overwhelmingly positive. The machine quickly became an integral part of my morning routine, thanks to its ease of use and consistent performance.
The learning curve was minimal. After the initial setup (which was slightly hampered by the unclear instructions), operating the machine became second nature. The process is straightforward: fill the water tank, insert a pod, select your size, and press start. The automatic capsule recognition means you don’t have to worry about selecting the right settings for different pod types.
One aspect I particularly appreciate is the flexibility the machine offers. On busy mornings, I can quickly brew a shot of espresso for an energy boost. When I have more time, I can enjoy a full mug of coffee. The ability to easily switch between these options without changing machines or settings is a significant advantage.
The large water tank and used capsule container contribute to a hassle-free experience. I find I only need to refill the water every few days, and I can go about a week before emptying the used capsule container. This reduces the daily maintenance required, which I appreciate.
Long-term usage has shown the machine to be durable and reliable. After several weeks of daily use, it continues to perform consistently without any noticeable degradation in coffee quality or mechanical issues.
One small quirk I’ve noticed is that the used capsule container can get quite wet, especially when brewing larger coffee sizes. This can lead to a bit of a mess when emptying if you’re not careful. I’ve learned to be cautious when removing and emptying this container to avoid spills.
The noise level of the machine deserves special mention. As someone who often makes coffee early in the morning, I really appreciate how quietly it operates compared to other espresso machines I’ve owned. It’s a small detail, but it makes a noticeable difference in the overall user experience.
Cleaning and maintenance have been straightforward. The removable parts are easy to clean, and the machine prompts you when descaling is necessary. I haven’t had to descale yet, but the process seems simple based on the instructions.
Overall, my experience with the L’OR Barista System has been excellent. It’s become a reliable and enjoyable part of my daily routine, offering cafe-quality drinks with minimal fuss. The minor inconveniences are far outweighed by the convenience and quality it provides.
Value for Money
Priced at around $189, the Philips L’OR Barista System offers compelling value for money, especially when considering its versatility and performance.
When comparing it to other pod-based systems, the L’OR Barista stands out for its ability to brew both coffee and espresso, and its compatibility with both L’OR and Nespresso capsules. Many single-function Nespresso machines are priced similarly but offer less flexibility. Keurig machines in this price range typically don’t offer true espresso capabilities.
The build quality and performance of the L’OR Barista are on par with or superior to many machines in this price bracket. The 19-bar pressure pump, for instance, is a feature often found in more expensive models.
When it comes to ongoing costs, the L’OR capsules offer good value. Priced between 50 to 70 cents each, they’re generally less expensive than Nespresso options (which range from 70 cents to $1.25 per capsule). This can lead to significant savings over time for regular coffee drinkers.
One factor to consider is that L’OR capsules are sold in boxes of 100, which requires a larger upfront investment but results in a lower per-capsule cost. Nespresso’s smaller box sizes offer more flexibility but at a higher per-capsule price.
Both L’OR and Nespresso offer free recycling programs for their aluminum capsules, which adds value from an environmental perspective.
When weighing the initial cost against the machine’s capabilities, build quality, and the potential for long-term savings on capsules, the L’OR Barista System represents a solid investment for coffee and espresso lovers. It offers the convenience and quality of a pod-based system with greater versatility than many competitors in its price range.
For those who enjoy both coffee and espresso and appreciate the convenience of pod-based systems, the L’OR Barista offers excellent value. However, for those who strongly prefer manually crafted espresso or who only occasionally drink coffee, a more specialized machine might be a better fit.
Overall, considering its performance, versatility, and the quality of drinks it produces, I believe the Philips L’OR Barista System offers very good value for money in the pod-based coffee maker market.
Conclusion
After extensive testing and daily use, I can confidently say that the Philips L’OR Barista System Coffee and Espresso Machine Combo is an impressive and versatile addition to any coffee lover’s kitchen. It successfully bridges the gap between dedicated espresso machines and simpler pod-based coffee makers, offering the best of both worlds.
The machine’s ability to brew both full cups of coffee and quality espresso, along with its compatibility with both L’OR and Nespresso capsules, sets it apart from many competitors. It consistently produces rich, flavorful drinks that satisfy even discerning coffee tastes.
While it does have a larger footprint than some single-function machines, the L’OR Barista System makes up for it with its versatility and larger capacity water tank and used capsule container. The quiet operation and quick brewing times are additional points in its favor.
The few drawbacks, such as the potentially messy used capsule disposal and the height clearance requirements, are minor compared to the overall benefits and convenience the machine offers.
I would highly recommend the Philips L’OR Barista System to coffee enthusiasts who appreciate both espresso and brewed coffee, and who value convenience without sacrificing quality. It’s particularly well-suited for households with varied coffee preferences or for those who enjoy different types of coffee drinks throughout the day.
For the price point, this machine offers excellent value, especially considering the potential for long-term savings on L’OR capsules compared to some competitors. Whether you’re upgrading from a simpler pod-based system or looking for a more convenient alternative to a manual espresso machine, the L’OR Barista System is definitely worth considering.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this machine compatible with all Nespresso capsules?
The L’OR Barista System is compatible with Nespresso Original capsules, but not with Nespresso Vertuo capsules.
How often do I need to descale the machine?
The frequency of descaling depends on your water hardness and usage. The machine will prompt you when descaling is necessary.
Can I adjust the coffee temperature?
No, the water temperature is preset and not adjustable by the user.
How loud is the machine during operation?
The L’OR Barista System operates more quietly than many competitor machines, making it pleasant to use even early in the morning.
Can I use my own ground coffee with this machine?
No, this machine is designed to work exclusively with compatible coffee pods.
How many used capsules can the container hold?
The used capsule container can hold between 8 to 12 used capsules, depending on their size.
Is it possible to adjust the automatic drink sizes?
Yes, it is possible to customize the drink sizes. The process is relatively simple and can be found in the user manual.
L'OR Barista System Coffee and Espresso Machine Combo by Philips, Matte Black
$168.00 in stock
2 used from $159.60
The Review
L'Or Barista
The Philips L'OR Barista System Coffee and Espresso Machine Combo is a versatile and high-performing pod-based coffee maker that offers excellent value for money. It stands out for its ability to brew both coffee and espresso using L'OR and Nespresso Original capsules, delivering consistently good results. The machine's large water tank, quiet operation, and quick brewing times enhance its convenience. While it has a larger footprint than some competitors and a few minor quirks, these are outweighed by its overall performance and flexibility. It's an excellent choice for coffee enthusiasts who appreciate variety and convenience without compromising on quality. With a personal rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars, this machine comes highly recommended for its target audience.
PROS
- Versatility: Ability to make both coffee and espresso using various compatible pods.
- Quality of Brew: Produces rich, flavorful coffee and espresso with good crema.
- Speed: Fast heat-up and brewing times for quick drink preparation.
- Large Capacity: 40-ounce water tank and sizeable used capsule container reduce frequent refills/emptying.
- Quiet Operation: Significantly less noisy than many competitor machines.
CONS
- Size: Larger footprint compared to some single-function espresso machines.
- Clearance Requirements: Tall lid needs extra vertical space, which may limit placement options.
- Messy Used Capsule Disposal: The used capsule container can get quite wet, potentially leading to spills during emptying.
Review Breakdown
-
Features
-
Design and construction
-
Performance
-
Coffee quality
-
Price
