Swan Espresso Coffee Machine

As a daily coffee drinker and someone who truly enjoys the experience of a well-crafted espresso, I was drawn to the Swan SK22110GRN Retro Espresso Coffee Machine for its eye-catching design and accessible price point. I’ve used this machine sic months, and while it has some strengths, it also has clear limitations, particularly for those who take their espresso seriously like me.

First Impressions: Classic Style and Modern Color

Let’s start with the design. One of the first things you’ll notice about this machine is its retro aesthetic. Available in a variety of colors, including a beautiful matte grey, it adds charm to your kitchen without being too loud. Its compact size also means it doesn’t take up too much counter space, making it a practical option for smaller kitchens or minimalist setups.

In fact, I found myself admiring its appearance even when I wasn’t brewing coffee. The stainless steel and plastic components are surprisingly solid for a machine in this price range. In short, it looks and feels like a product that punches above its weight.

Ease of Use: Simple but Not Thoughtless

Using the machine is relatively straightforward. The manual is easy to follow, and the setup process is quick. Within minutes, you can be pulling your first shot. There are no unnecessary buttons or settings to confuse beginners, which makes this machine approachable even for those new to espresso making.

The water tank is removable and easy to refill. It fits nicely at the back and doesn’t spill when you take it out. The drip tray is also detachable and easy to rinse. These small touches contribute to a smoother day-to-day experience.

Performance: Mild Espresso and Basic Functionality

Let’s talk about espresso quality. Now onto the most important part: the espresso. As someone who is pretty picky about their coffee, I’ll be honest, the shot is a bit weak for my taste. You have to manually control the amount of the water that comes out. Also, the flavor it brews is mild and doesn’t offer the deep, rich intensity I usually expect from a traditional espresso shot.

Starbucks ground coffee (Dark Roast, Intensity 11) is the only ground coffee I enjoy.
I use the same types of beans for my capsule machine, jut in different format.

Anyways, if you’re not as critical as I am, the mild flavor may not bother you.

Steam Wand: Aesthetic, But Lacks Practicality

The Swan comes with a built-in steam wand, which allows for frothing milk and making cappuccinos or lattes. In theory, this adds versatility. In practice, however, I don’t use it often.

The main issue is cleaning. The wand tends to generate more water than steam, which dilutes the milk and leaves a bit of a mess. It’s also not the easiest to clean thoroughly, and if not maintained properly, it could affect performance or hygiene over time. If you’re someone who plans to steam milk regularly, this could be a drawback. For me, it became more of a decorative feature than a functional one.

Maintenance

Cleaning the machine is relatively easy. The parts that come into contact with coffee—like the portafilter and drip tray—are removable and rinse clean with warm water. I do wish the filter basket was easier to clean thoroughly, as grounds can get stuck around the edges. Still, this isn’t a dealbreaker, and with regular upkeep, you can keep things running smoothly.

What’s more, the machine doesn’t require any fancy descaling routines. Just run a cleaning cycle occasionally, and you’re good to go. For anyone worried about maintenance, this should come as a relief.

Usability: Straightforward and Beginner Friendly

Despite the espresso and steamer limitations, the machine is very user-friendly. Setup is simple, and the interface is clear. There’s a removable 1.2-litre water tank, which is a convenient size for 2–3 daily coffee drinkers. The machine is also relatively quiet during operation, which is something I appreciated during early mornings.

Cleaning is manageable. The drip tray and water tank are both detachable, and you can wipe down most surfaces easily. Aside from the steam wand, maintenance is not an issue.

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Who Should Consider This Machine?

This espresso machine is a good fit for casual users who:

• Want a beautiful, vintage-style appliance in the kitchen
• Occasionally drink espresso or coffee with milk
• Are just starting to make coffee at home
• Don’t want to spend a lot on a higher-end machine

It’s not ideal for:

• Espresso lovers who are particular about strength and crema
• Users who expect commercial-level frothing capabilities
• Those who prepare multiple cups every morning (since brewing is relatively slow)

Pros and Cons Summary

Pros:
✓ Visually striking retro design
✓ Beginner-friendly interface and easy operation
✓ Affordable price range
✓ Removable water tank and drip tray
✓ Compact size, fits small kitchens

Cons:
✗ Espresso lacks depth and boldness
✗ The steamer produces too much water and is difficult to clean
✗ Not suitable for making multiple drinks quickly
✗ Not ideal for coffee enthusiasts who expect barista-level quality