Hamilton Beach Cappuccino Plus

My other machine died recently so I needed a new one.  I have owned several machines, as I'm a cappuccino addict who uses my machine daily.  I have been using this machine now for a couple of weeks.

This machine has 15 bar pump system rather than a steam based system which is what I owned before.  It works with loose grounds or pods.  The froth dial adjusts from steam to froth and you do not need to hold the pitcher at a particular angle for it to work. 

It's a different system so it took me a couple of tries to get it down, but it's easy to operate and makes a great cappuccino.  It even comes with a dvd which will help those who have never used a pump based machine before.  Clean up is easy, which is always a plus. 

I was warned that because it is a single pump do not brew and steam at the same time as it may damage the unit.  Also, the unit sits low fitting a double shot cup perfectly, but larger mugs will not fit under it.

All in all I give this machine high marks.   I wasn't expecting a whole lot out of a pump unit I bought for under $75, but it has exceeded my expectations.