Compare SMEG 50’s Retro Style Drip Coffee Maker vs Espro P7 French Press

In-box accessories are often described as minimal, but optional add-ons are mentioned across reviews: paper filters (to further clean up oils), replacement filter baskets/filters, and specialty filter-cleaning products.

Heat-retention claims are broadly supported by reported temperature tests and timed heat checks, showing meaningful insulation benefits. Sediment-free claims are partially supported: the cup is much cleaner than standard presses, but multiple reviewers still note small amounts of chaff/fines. Exterior temperature claims vary, suggesting handling comfort may depend on use and expectations.

Setup is generally described as quick: rinse/wash the removable parts, run one or two water-only cycles, set the clock, and start brewing. Most users find the controls intuitive without much manual reading.

Setup is generally described as easy and quick, with clear assembly and intuitive use for anyone familiar with French press brewing. One user notes that overloading grounds can prevent proper latching/assembly, and official guidance emphasizes correct filter installation and not overfilling.

The programmable auto-start timer is a recurring highlight, and several reviews like the simple button layout. A few mention notifications/alerts or mode limitations (for example, keep-warm behavior changing with the small-batch setting).

Most reviewers describe the brew as smooth and consistent but fundamentally standard drip coffee rather than specialty-level. The aroma/intensity control can add a bit more body, while the delicate mode is often called weak or watery.

Reviews consistently describe a richer, sweeter, more balanced French press cup with fewer muddy notes than standard presses. Multiple sources highlight repeatable results and a forgiving brew process, with less bitterness than typical immersion when using the filter system and brew cut-off approach.

Build quality impressions vary by source: some describe a heavy, durable feel and even all-metal construction, while others perceive a lot of plastic and report failures after months/years of use.

Build quality is repeatedly described as premium and durable, centered on the double-walled stainless steel construction. Multiple reviews imply long service life versus glass presses, with solid fit/finish and replaceable filter parts available if needed.

Capacity is usually framed as a 10-cup machine with a smaller 4-cup option, but multiple reviewers note the real-world cup measure feels smaller than average and is best for small households rather than big groups.

Two primary sizes are repeatedly mentioned (18 oz and 32 oz). The 32 oz model is often described as producing roughly four mugs, while the 18 oz suits smaller single-serve needs; overall capacity is best for small households rather than large groups.

Carafe handling feedback is mixed: some call it generous and largely mess-free with pause-and-serve, while others dislike the glass carafe not being dishwasher safe, a flimsy-feeling handle, or the mismatch between a large base and a relatively small pot.

Pouring is widely praised: long/oversized handle support and clean pours are common notes, with minimal dripping in several reviews. Some mention you need to align the spout correctly, and the body can feel weighty, but overall handling is reported as easy.

Across reviews, the SMEG stands out for its 1950s-inspired look and color options, but it is also repeatedly described as tall and larger than expected for the amount of coffee it makes, so cabinet clearance and counter space matter.

Design is a standout: many call it gorgeous and counter-worthy, with a comfortable handle and premium finishes. Downsides include a tall, space-claiming footprint for some kitchens, a weighty feel, and mixed reports about exterior heat; plunge force is also discussed as firmer than some standard presses.

Commonly cited drawbacks include a bulky/tall footprint, awkward water filling, limited adjustable settings beyond intensity, and in some reviews a short keep-warm window or missing convenience features like brew pause.

Common knocks include premium pricing, occasional fines/chaff getting through, and the multi-part filter cleanup feeling tedious to some. Mixed notes also appear about exterior heat and plunge force, plus at least one report of latching/assembly issues if overfilled with grounds.

Packaging gets occasional praise for being recyclable or low-plastic, and the reusable filter is frequently mentioned as a small sustainability win.

The included reusable filter is widely appreciated for convenience and waste reduction, and several reviews note you can also use paper filters when you want a cleaner cup with less sediment.

Filtration is the defining feature: dual micro-mesh filters and a gasketed system are credited with dramatically reducing grit and sediment versus standard French presses. However, several reviews still report occasional chaff/fines, and technique (correct assembly, grind, plunge speed, and cleaning) affects how clean the cup ends up.

Where power is mentioned (around 1050W), it’s treated as adequate for a standard drip machine, and reviewers more often judge performance by brew speed and consistency than raw wattage.

Some reviews note it can handle cold beverages (iced tea or cold brew steeping) thanks to insulation, but testing detail is limited. Expect it to work for cold steeping, though it is primarily discussed as a hot French press brewer.

Overall experience tends to be positive for people who want simple, quiet, consistent drip coffee with strong visual appeal, but satisfaction drops when buyers expect premium coffee quality, easier filling/cleanup, or long-term reliability commensurate with the price.

Overall experience trends strongly positive: easy brewing, premium feel, and noticeably cleaner-tasting French press coffee are frequent themes. The most consistent tradeoffs are premium price, more parts to clean, and occasional residual fines or chaff.

Several reviews frame the machine as a popular, Instagram-friendly design piece from a well-known brand, which is a key part of its appeal.

Multiple reviews frame it as a top French press pick and a commonly recommended model, including long-term usage notes (kept for over a year) and repeated best-of placements.

The keep-warm hot plate is generally seen as effective for short stretches (often 40–60 minutes) and then auto shuts off; some reviewers wish it lasted longer or could be adjusted, while others prefer a thermal carafe instead.

The P7 is referenced as an award/top-pick style product in at least one major outlet, indicating recognition in curated best-of lists. No formal brewing certification is consistently cited in these reviews.

Where brew time is discussed, it’s considered quick and convenient for everyday use, with cited brew times around 2–8 minutes depending on batch size.

Value is the most polarized theme: many reviewers say the machine is expensive for what is, functionally, a basic drip brewer, while a smaller set argues the design and convenience features justify the premium if you specifically want the aesthetic.

Pricing is consistently labeled premium for a French press. Many reviewers feel the cleaner cup and insulation justify the cost, while others frame it as hard to justify versus basic presses if you do not value reduced grit, heat retention, and premium build.

Customer support and warranty experiences are uneven in the reviews: one owner reports an especially frustrating claims process after a failure, while other sources don’t highlight support as a differentiator.

Warranty/support is lightly covered in the reviews, with at least one source citing a 1-year limited warranty and multiple sources noting replacement filters/baskets are available, implying a service path for wear items.

Reviews mention water hardness settings and descaling reminders/indicators, and some long-term owners say maintenance is straightforward. The most common complaint is that the reservoir fill access can be awkward and easy to spill, and there’s no built-in water filter.

Cleaning is a major theme: the filter basket disassembles for thorough washing, and many find day-to-day cleanup straightforward, but some call it tedious compared with simpler presses. Several sources say it is dishwasher safe for some parts/finishes, while also recommending hand washing; keeping filters clean helps preserve flavor and pressing smoothness.