Smeg 50's Style Espresso Coffee Machine Black
Smeg 50's Style Espresso Coffee Machine Black
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- Inventory on the way
- Free Mainland UK delivery over £49 - No Quibble Returns
The Smeg EGF03 is a manual espresso machine with a built-in conical burr grinder, which means you go directly from whole beans to espresso in a single machine without a separate grinder on the worktop. Stainless steel conical burrs allow adjustment down to a super-fine grind, and a dual thermoblock system means the machine can brew and steam simultaneously without waiting for temperature recovery between the two. A 58mm portafilter is the professional standard size, and four extraction temperature levels combined with four pre-infusion profiles give meaningful control over how the coffee extracts. The steam wand offers two steam levels for milk texturing, a pressure gauge lets you monitor extraction in real time, and a 2.4-litre water tank and 250g bean hopper give good capacity for regular use. Accessories include both pressurised and non-pressurised 58mm filters, a stainless steel milk carafe, and cleaning and maintenance tools.
- Built-in stainless steel conical burr grinder: Integrated conical burrs grind directly into the portafilter from whole beans, with adjustment down to a super-fine setting that preserves coffee aroma better than pre-ground alternatives.
- Dual thermoblock heating system: Two separate thermoblocks heat independently for brewing and steaming, so you can move between espresso and milk texturing without waiting for temperature recovery.
- 58mm portafilter with pressurised and non-pressurised filters: The professional-standard 58mm filter holder gives more even extraction than smaller portafilter sizes, and both pressurised and non-pressurised filters are included to suit different grind levels and skill levels.
- Four temperature levels and four pre-infusion profiles: Extraction temperature and pre-infusion can each be set across four levels, giving meaningful control over how different beans and roast levels are extracted.
- Professional steam wand with pressure gauge: Two steam levels allow adjustment for different milk textures from flat white to cappuccino, and the pressure gauge lets you monitor that extraction is running within optimal espresso parameters.
What Customers Ask About This Product
Do I need to use coffee beans, or can I use pre-ground coffee?
The EGF03 has a built-in grinder designed for whole beans, but the source data does not confirm whether it has a bypass doser for pre-ground coffee. Most machines in this category include one, but check the instruction manual before assuming pre-ground is compatible.
What is the difference between pressurised and non-pressurised filters?
A pressurised filter has a single small hole at the base and creates pressure artificially regardless of grind size or tamp pressure, making it more forgiving for beginners or with pre-ground coffee. A non-pressurised filter relies on the correct grind, dose, and tamp to build pressure naturally, which gives more control and typically better results with freshly ground coffee. Both 58mm versions are included with the EGF03.
What does pre-infusion do?
Pre-infusion wets the coffee puck with a small amount of water at low pressure before the full extraction begins. This allows the grounds to bloom and swell evenly, which can improve extraction consistency and reduce channelling, particularly with lighter roasted beans. Having four pre-infusion profiles gives meaningful variation rather than a simple on/off option.
Is the grinder adjustable for different beans?
Yes. The conical burr grinder adjusts down to a super-fine setting, covering the range from espresso through to coarser grinds. Different beans, roast levels, and humidity conditions typically require grind adjustment to dial in the right extraction, and the built-in grinder allows you to make those adjustments without a separate device.
In our experience...
A built-in grinder changes the workflow significantly. Without a built-in grinder, making espresso requires a separate grinder, additional worktop space, and an extra cleaning step. The EGF03 consolidates the process into one machine, which makes the difference between a manageable morning routine and a complicated one for most home users.
The 58mm portafilter is the professional standard for a reason. Larger portafilter baskets allow a larger, more evenly distributed coffee puck, which promotes more even water flow and extraction. Many home machines use smaller 51mm or 54mm portafilters to reduce cost; the 58mm on the EGF03 gives results closer to what a commercial machine produces.
Dual thermoblock means no waiting between espresso and steam. Single-boiler machines require you to wait for the boiler to reach steam temperature after brewing, and then cool back down before the next espresso. Dual thermoblock removes both waits entirely, which matters most when making multiple milk-based drinks in sequence.
Pre-infusion is the feature most home baristas underestimate at first. It seems like a minor detail compared to grind and temperature, but channelling (where water finds the path of least resistance through the puck rather than extracting evenly) is one of the main causes of inconsistent espresso. Pre-infusion reduces channelling by evening out the puck before full pressure is applied.
A pressure gauge is a genuine tool, not just a visual feature. Espresso extraction should run at around 9 bar. If the gauge is reading significantly above or below that during extraction, the grind, dose, or tamp needs adjusting. Having real-time visual feedback during the shot makes dialling in the grinder considerably faster than guessing from the taste alone.
Specifications
Care & Use Instructions
Daily cleaning: Remove and rinse the portafilter and filter basket after each use. Wipe the steam wand immediately after steaming milk, before any residue dries on the tip.
Water tank: Remove the water tank and rinse regularly. Empty and refill with fresh water daily if the machine is used every day.
Drip tray: Remove and empty the drip tray regularly to prevent overflow. Wash with warm soapy water and rinse thoroughly.
Grinder: Clean the grinder periodically using the cleaning tools provided or a dry brush. Do not use water inside the grinder. Empty the bean hopper fully before cleaning.
Descaling: Descale the machine regularly using a proprietary espresso machine descaler, following Smeg's guidance on frequency for your water hardness. Hard water areas will require more frequent descaling.
What to avoid: Do not immerse the machine or base in water. Do not leave milk residue on the steam wand. Do not use flavoured or oily beans, as these can clog the grinder burrs over time.
Why Buy From Art of Living?
Founded in Reigate in 1972, we've spent over five decades helping customers select quality tableware and cookware. We've been twice nominated for the Excellence in Housewares award for customer care.
- No-quibble returns, even used items
- Half-price accidental damage replacement for two years
- Price match guarantee
Frequently Asked Questions
What if I've used it and don't like it?
Return it anyway. Our no-quibble guarantee covers used items. If it's not right for you, get in touch and we'll sort out a refund.
How does the Half-Price Replacement guarantee work?
If you accidentally break this item within two years of buying it, we'll replace it at half price. Just get in touch with proof of purchase and a photo of the damage.
How long does delivery take?
Standard delivery to mainland UK addresses can take 5-7 working days (but is usually much quicker than that), and it's free on orders over £49. Next day delivery is available for £9.95 on orders placed before 1pm Monday to Thursday, depending on your location and our stock levels. You can also collect from our shops in Cobham or Reigate, or our warehouse in Redhill.
Can I collect this item instead of having it delivered?
Yes. You can collect from our Reigate shop (72 High Street, RH2 9AP), our Cobham shop (16 Anyards Road, KT11 2JZ), or our warehouse in Redhill (40 Ormside Way, RH1 2LW). Just select click and collect at checkout. If the option isn't available, this is because there isn't enough stock in your selected collection location. Please get in touch and we can organise stock to be transferred to the right place.
