The original full review is available on Rendeljkinait
It is true that drinking coffee is a worldwide addiction, but with any addiction, it is important that if we make it enjoyable, it becomes an experience. Our current test subject, the HiBREW H5A, is the previous H5 wrinkled version, with changes that were made to make this model more likable and usable. A redesigned steam lever, better interface and aesthetic refinements for the most part. The question is, has this been achieved in practice? The H5A came from Ranvee, where it now sells for 36 euros, in line with its category.
HiBREW H5A coffee maker test – From the previous parts
A HiBREW H5A egy reconsideration in the field of cheap but usable home espresso machines. This is a machine that does not promise miracles, but brings the culture of coffee one step closer also for those who don't want to spend a fortune on a morning routine that is enjoyable. We were curious to see what the manufacturer Did it learn from the mistakes of the predecessor model? – and because H5A finally knows on paper what its predecessor only hinted at: simple but effective operation, easy to learn handling.
So after the HiBREW H5, which, despite good intentions, bled from several wounds, We were curious about the successor model., to the H5A. The predecessor was cheap, you could feel the savings, the logic of the temperature display was incomprehensible to say the least, the casing was wobbly, the portafilter additions were more distracting than helpful, and the milk frother worked unevenly and spit, but we could go on and on. All of this didn't necessarily make it unusable, but over time it causes a lot of annoyance or you just simply stop using it. However, it was already clear in the case of its predecessor (H5) that:
The viability of an entry-level, home espresso machine is unquestionable.
Since then, however, a lot has happened and the question is: have they really improved the new model?? The first impression clearly after unpacking more positiveAll components of the H5A are packed separately and neatly in the box (portafilter, two sizes of filters, measuring spoon), which is a step forward not only aesthetically but also in terms of practicality. The coffee maker easy to set up, requires almost no learning: the 1,2 liter water tank We fill it, fill the portafilter with coffee up to the MAX marking – paying attention to the appropriate fineness of the grind – and then connect the device to the power supply.
From here, you just have to decide: cup warming, espresso, or steaming should be the next step.
The device its operating logic is well thought out. Around the power button LED light Its feedback is easy to interpret: it flashes when the machine is heating up, and lights up continuously when it has reached operating temperature. coffee brewing and steaming functions can be switched separately by buttons are now also available on the panel in the form of and must be manually (by pressing the appropriate button) to start and stop – a bit retro, but at least the control remains with the user. In case of steaming, the appropriate temperature (120-130 degrees Celsius) after reaching the lateral, stepless can be adjusted with a knob the escaping steam, and this solution is handy and easy to get used to. The material of the cover is still light and thin rather than massive and thick, but at least the design has become better:
The aluminum inserts and rounded shapes give the machine a more harmonious, streamlined appearance.
The H5A's weight has been reduced by nearly 1 kilogram compared to its predecessor, and its dimensions (157x306x308 millimeters) have also changed, as it has become a few millimeters taller and longer, but its width has been reduced by nearly 7 centimeters, which results in a narrower shape and compactness The volume has been reduced from one and a half liters to 1,2 liters. easy access to water tank and can be easily removed from its place, which is especially important during daily use, similar to Rubber nubs on the base of the machine for anti-slip. The plastic lid on the top of the coffee maker cup warmer – as we expected – it only provides lukewarm water, but it's just right to prevent your morning coffee from flowing into a cold mug.
Which, however, amounts to a goalpost, just like its predecessor: sacrificing function on the altar of appearance.
This looks good. analog thermometer, just funny as it is. It reminded me of my teenage tool kit, which had everything from a ratchet socket set to a feeler gauge, but it was more of a toy tool kit than a real one. Granted, it taught me the basics of assembly and why I can honestly appreciate a BETA brand kit years later. The Although H5A does not insist on sending out water/steam at the specified maximum, the coarseness of the divisions of the temperature gauge, which resembles a pressure gauge doesn't help much. Although even in this there is the possibility of learning through play: you can try a split for each coffee, what will be the result when you start the water or steam and How close can you get to a temperature of around 92 degrees Celsius?. The scale ends at 180 degrees Celsius, according to the division analogy, but it hardly goes above 150. The safety valve intervenes before it, providing similar protection as the Automatic shut-off after 25 minutesso that you don't accidentally cause unnecessary damage to your kitchen.
The steamer, to be more precise Milk frother lever is simple but easy to useIt works with a thermoblock system, which means that a Water jets heated in a small heating block generate the steam – this system is fast, but it doesn’t produce the stable, dense steam that more expensive boiler-based solutions produce. The frother isn’t ideal for latte art, but smoothly produces enough milk foam for a cappuccino. Due to the method, the steam formed after opening still contains quite a lot of water, so it is worth "precipitating" the beginning and only then holding the liquid intended for steaming. Pulling off the small, perforated outer tube required for the inflow of air (which mainly ensures easier use) allows more experienced users greater independence, so that they can pay more attention (i.e. manually "dosing" the air), stronger, foamier, creamier be the result.
A Pump behavior and thermal stability are also mediocre – as expected in this segment – but for an entry-level device this is not necessarily a problem. The coffee making operating temperature about 1 minutes The machine reaches under, which is completely acceptable. It is also important to mention that The H5A can tell the difference between a spoiled coffee and a well-made oneIf we pay attention to the grind, compression, and extraction time, the result is immediately visible in the cup. This teaches, provides feedback and encourages development – for this reason alone it can be valuable for a beginner. The Reduction from 20 bar to 15 (which is the nominal power of the pump) is probably justified by the practical factor that this is not the data with which the coffee grounds receive the hot water, since that pressure primarily depends on the grain size and compaction (tamping) of the coffee. However, the power is slightly increased compared to its predecessor, from 1050 watts to 1100 watts, it heats the water even faster.
Source: Ranvee – HiBREW H8A
If I had to suggest something better...
Because you would take coffee making even more seriously, maybe you would regularly make milk frothed drinks too, and would you appreciate the fine-tuning options?, then a good alternative is HiBREW H8A type. It is also an ideal choice for home baristas, advanced levels or simply switching from capsules to ground coffee. Currently 58 000 Ft at a price of around you can buy it hereThe H8A now has 1450 W of power and is more precise With PID temperature control combine this to make a more professional espresso. The biggest difference is the automatic pre-soaking, digital display, stainless steel casing and built-in pressure gauge, which allows the extraction to be followed precisely. In addition can be a serious weapon factor in H10A, which we have tested before and enough received a good score, and the H10B is also worth a look, which also has a pressure gauge.
Summary
A HiBREW H5A won't revolutionize home coffee brewing, but a smart and educational alternative annak, who is looking for an entry into the world of espresso. The machine simple but thoughtful It works with a user interface, quite good material quality and acceptable limits. Its operation is not flawless, but with a little practice it is surprisingly easy to use. good results can be achieved with itIt's not for professionals and it won't be a barista favorite, but it's A useful companion for the first steps in making coffee at home – provided we know what to expect from it. A little compromise and 36 300 Ft For the price of , you get a surprisingly lovable machine that not only brews your morning coffee, but also teaches you how to make your coffee well.
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