Mr. Coffee ECMP50

Bottom line

Multipurpose machine, low price. The Mr. Coffee ECMP50 is an affordable yet versatile machine that produces multiple types of hot beverages to suit any taste. It's simple to operate, easy to clean and attractive enough to leave sitting on a countertop.

Performance

Three types of beverages in one machine. The Mr. Coffee ECMP50 makes cappuccino, espresso and latte. Its 15-bar pump pressure system heats water quickly, and it has a frothing arm to froth fresh milk. Owners who post reviews at Amazon.com and Viewpoints.com appreciate its versatility and call it a great value.

Editors of Good Housekeeping say the ECMP50 is fast and effective at frothing milk. "It was one of the only [machines] we tested that produced a foamy, pale brown layer of crema as well as the deep, rich, slightly bitter flavor that says, 'I'm a true espresso,'" they add. Owners are pleased, too. At Amazon.com, one says, "Steam pressure seems good, and the espresso comes out in two golden heavy streams of froth, gradually condensing into a rich, dark liquid with good crema."

On the downside, overfilling the portafilter can cause the pump to struggle, and using too fine a grind will cause difficulties and inconsistencies. An Amazon.com poster says that if the machine doesn't start to pour espresso after several seconds, this could indicate too fine a grind or too hard a tamp.

Ease of use

Easy to use, but missing a frothing pitcher. Users say at Amazon.com and Viewpoints.com that this Mr. Coffee machine couldn't be more intuitive, and they praise its detailed, easy-to-understand instruction manual.

Although the ECMP50 lacks a frothing pitcher, most owners don't see this as a huge issue, saying pitchers are affordable and easy to come by. The swivel frothing wand is easy to use, but a few recommend removing the rubber tip at the end for a better froth. Some users also wish they had more control over the steam function, and say the steamer can't be used while brewing.

Durability

Some lemons, but overall good quality. Several owners comment at Amazon.com and Viewpoints.com that they've owned the Mr. Coffee ECMP50 for a year -- or a few years, in some cases -- and have had no problems with its performance. A few, however, complain of slight leaks from the water reservoir, caused by a necessary hole where the tank attaches to the machine. Most say this is a minor inconvenience.

A few users say they received malfunctioning units right out of the box, but most obtain replacements without a problem. However, one owner had difficulty with customer service, and a handful of detractors say the pumps in their machines stopped working within a few months.

Appearance

Bulky, but looks cool. The Mr. Coffee's black and silver look is stylish, users say. According to Good Housekeeping editors, "its stylish design will give a hint of sophistication to your countertop as well as your cup -- but it's large, so it'll take up a bit of space."