Making good espresso at home does not have to involve an expensive machine or a complicated brewing process. The COSTAR 2-in-1 Espresso Machine aims to make things simpler by allowing you to prepare coffee using either capsules or coffee powder.
That flexibility is its biggest attraction. You can use capsules when you want coffee quickly, then switch to ground coffee when you prefer more control over the taste. Its compact design, one-touch operation and fast heating system also make it appealing for everyday use.
But convenience is only part of the decision. A coffee machine should also produce a satisfying cup, fit comfortably into your kitchen routine and remain dependable over time.
The COSTAR 2-in-1 has received largely positive customer feedback, particularly for its coffee quality, ease of use, compact size and value for money. There are also some important ownership considerations, including maintenance and a few reports of reliability problems.
Here is what you should know before buying it.
What Makes the COSTAR 2-in-1 Espresso Machine Different?
Product: COSTAR 2-in-1 Espresso Machine for Capsules & Coffee Powder
The main reason to consider this machine is its ability to work with two types of coffee.
- Coffee capsules: A convenient option when you want a quick, consistent drink without measuring coffee grounds.
- Coffee powder: Lets you use ground coffee instead of relying entirely on capsules.
This combination makes the machine useful for households with different coffee preferences. One person can use a capsule for a quick morning espresso, while another can prepare coffee using their preferred ground coffee.
The machine is designed for home use, with a compact body measuring approximately 28 × 11.5 × 25 cm. It has a 600 ml water tank, a 1450W heating system and a listed pump pressure of 20 bar.
These specifications support its focus on convenient, single-cup coffee preparation rather than making several drinks at once.
If you are interested in this combination of capsule convenience and ground-coffee flexibility, you can check the COSTAR 2-in-1 on Amazon for its current price and availability.
Coffee Quality: One of Its Strongest Points
A coffee machine can have an impressive specification sheet and still disappoint when the coffee reaches your cup. Fortunately, coffee quality is one of the areas where this COSTAR model receives positive feedback.
Customers frequently describe the espresso as rich, flavourful and satisfying. Several also mention a layer of crema on top, which adds to the appearance and overall experience of an espresso.
The machine’s 20-bar pressure rating is part of its advertised design, but the more useful point for a buyer is that many owners report enjoying the coffee it produces.
The ground-coffee option is particularly appealing to people who like experimenting with different beans or roasts. Capsules, meanwhile, offer a more repeatable result with less preparation.
There is a practical distinction between the two:
- Capsules prioritise convenience and consistency. They are useful when you want a familiar drink without much preparation.
- Ground coffee offers more choice. You can try different coffees and adjust your selection to suit your taste.
The machine gives you both options without requiring a separate coffee maker.
However, coffee quality will still depend on the coffee you use and how you prepare it. The machine’s pressure rating alone cannot guarantee that every cup will taste like espresso from your favourite café.
Fast Coffee Without a Complicated Routine
The COSTAR 2-in-1 is designed for people who want coffee without spending too much time preparing it.
Its advertised brewing time is around 25 seconds, and the one-touch operation keeps the process simple. Customers often praise how quickly the machine heats up and how easy it is to use, including people who are relatively new to espresso machines.
This makes it a practical choice for busy mornings. You do not need to learn a complicated set of controls just to prepare a basic espresso.
The capsule option makes the process even more straightforward. With ground coffee, you have a little more preparation to do, including handling the coffee and cleaning the filter after use.
One important distinction: the advertised 25-second brewing time should not be treated as the total time required for every drink. Filling the tank, preparing the coffee and cleaning up can add to the overall process.
Still, the combination of quick heating and simple controls is a genuine advantage for everyday use.
A Compact Machine That Makes Sense for Smaller Kitchens
Espresso machines can take up a surprising amount of counter space. That can be a problem in apartments, smaller kitchens or homes where the counter is already crowded.
The COSTAR 2-in-1 has a relatively compact design, and its dimensions make it easier to accommodate than a larger coffee setup.
Customers also speak positively about its appearance, describing it as stylish and suitable for a modern kitchen.
Its removable water tank is another useful detail. The product listing includes a removable tank, and customer feedback suggests that removing and washing the tank and drip tray is straightforward.
These small conveniences matter because they affect how often you will actually want to use the machine. A coffee maker that is easy to access, fill and clean is more likely to fit naturally into your daily routine.
The 600 ml water capacity is suitable for regular home use, but it is worth remembering that this is a single-cup brewing machine. If several people in your household want coffee one after another, you may need to refill the tank during a longer coffee session.
The Important Limitation: Do Not Assume It Can Froth Milk
The listed 2-in-1 model does not include a steam wand.
The product comparison information identifies the Master 2 Plus as having no steam wand or steam system. This matters if you mainly drink cappuccinos, lattes or other milk-based coffee.
Some customer reviews mention milk frothing, lattes and cappuccinos. However, the product information for this specific model indicates that it does not have a steam wand.
That difference is important. Reviews can sometimes refer to a different model or reflect confusion about the product’s capabilities.
For this reason, buyers should not assume that the COSTAR 2-in-1 reviewed here can heat and froth milk on its own.
You can still prepare espresso and use it as the coffee base for a milk-based drink, but you would need a separate way to froth the milk.
If a built-in milk-frothing system is essential, check the exact model specifications before ordering. COSTAR also lists other espresso machines with different features, so make sure you are comparing the right version.
Capsule Compatibility: Convenient, but Check Before Buying
The machine is advertised as compatible with Nespresso-style capsules, including options from brands such as Nestlé, Lavazza and Coffeeza.
This gives you more flexibility than a machine tied to a single proprietary capsule range.
Capsules are particularly useful when you want a quick drink without grinding, measuring or handling loose coffee. They also make it easier to prepare the same style of coffee repeatedly.
However, capsule compatibility should not be interpreted as universal compatibility with every coffee pod available.
Before buying capsules, check that they are compatible with the machine’s capsule system. This is especially important if you already have a collection of pods from another coffee maker.
The ground-coffee option provides a useful alternative if you prefer buying coffee locally or do not want to depend entirely on capsules.
Cleaning and Maintenance: Easy Daily Care, but Descaling Still Matters
Cleaning is not the most exciting part of owning a coffee machine, but it can affect how pleasant the machine is to use over time.
The COSTAR 2-in-1 has removable components, including its water tank and drip tray. Customer feedback generally describes routine cleaning as easy.
That is encouraging for people who plan to use the machine every day.
However, easy cleaning does not mean maintenance-free operation.
One customer reported that the machine began making a different sound after around three months. After contacting support, the issue was traced to the need for descaling. The customer reported that the process took about 30 minutes and restored normal operation.
Another longer-term user specifically recommended descaling every few months when using hard water.
These experiences highlight a useful ownership lesson: mineral deposits can become a problem, particularly in areas with hard water.
The exact descaling frequency should follow the manufacturer’s instructions and depend on your water quality and usage. Regular maintenance is worth building into your routine rather than waiting for a change in the machine’s performance.
Reliability and After-Sales Support: The Part Worth Watching
Most of the available feedback is positive, but reliability deserves a closer look.
One buyer reported that the machine stopped working in less than a year. The seller contacted the customer and replaced it, which was a positive outcome. However, the customer also noted difficulty finding the seller’s contact number.
This is an isolated report in the available feedback, so it would be unfair to conclude that the machine commonly fails within a year.
Still, it is relevant because a coffee maker is an appliance you may expect to use regularly for several years.
There are also positive reports about customer support. Some owners describe receiving helpful demonstrations, setup guidance and troubleshooting assistance. In one case, a customer was able to resolve a problem through descaling instructions rather than needing a replacement.
The overall picture is encouraging, but not perfect. Support appears to have helped some customers, while the reported early failure shows why warranty and service arrangements should be checked before purchase.
Before ordering, confirm the current warranty terms, replacement conditions and how to contact the seller or manufacturer if something goes wrong.
You can also read more customer reviews and check the latest price on Amazon before making a decision.
Is the COSTAR 2-in-1 Good Value for Money?
The machine’s value comes from combining two coffee preparation methods in one relatively compact appliance.
You do not have to buy one machine for capsules and another for ground coffee. You also get a quick-heating system and straightforward controls without moving into a more complex home espresso setup.
For someone who currently buys coffee from cafés, making more drinks at home may help reduce spending. However, the actual savings depend on how often you use the machine, the coffee you buy and whether you also purchase accessories.
Capsules offer convenience but create a recurring expense. Ground coffee gives you another option, which can be useful if you want to control your coffee choices and ongoing costs.
The machine’s value also depends on what you expect it to do. If your main goal is quick espresso, its feature set makes sense. If you want built-in milk frothing, more advanced control or a machine designed to prepare several drinks at once, the value proposition becomes less convincing.
Check the current COSTAR 2-in-1 price on Amazon, since discounts and selling prices can change.
Who Should Buy the COSTAR 2-in-1 Espresso Machine?
This machine is worth considering if you:
- Want to make espresso at home without a complicated brewing process.
- Like having the choice of capsules and ground coffee.
- Have limited kitchen counter space.
- Prefer quick coffee preparation on busy mornings.
- Want a relatively straightforward machine for everyday use.
- Appreciate having a removable water tank and easy-to-clean components.
It is less suitable if you:
- Need a built-in milk frother or steam wand.
- Want to prepare several cups simultaneously.
- Expect to avoid regular maintenance.
- Need advanced control over every part of the espresso-making process.
- Prefer an appliance with a well-established record of long-term reliability and extensive service coverage.
FAQs
1. What types of coffee can the COSTAR 2-in-1 Espresso Machine make?
The COSTAR 2-in-1 Espresso Machine can prepare coffee using compatible capsules or ground coffee powder. This flexibility allows users to enjoy quick, convenient coffee with capsules or experiment with different coffee varieties using ground coffee.
2. Is the COSTAR 2-in-1 Espresso Machine easy to use?
Yes, the machine is designed for simple, everyday use. Its one-touch operation and quick-heating system make it convenient for beginners and busy coffee drinkers who want to prepare espresso without complicated controls.
3. How long does the COSTAR 2-in-1 take to brew coffee?
The advertised brewing time is approximately 25 seconds. However, the total preparation time may be longer when you include filling the water tank, preparing the coffee and cleaning the machine afterward.
4. Does the COSTAR 2-in-1 Espresso Machine have a milk frother?
No, the reviewed model does not include a built-in steam wand or milk-frothing system. You can use its espresso as a base for lattes and cappuccinos, but you will need a separate milk frother to prepare frothed milk.
5. Which coffee capsules are compatible with the COSTAR 2-in-1?
The machine is advertised as compatible with Nespresso-style capsules, including options from brands such as Nestlé, Lavazza and Coffeeza. However, compatibility is not universal, so check the capsule specifications before purchasing.
6. What is the water tank capacity of the COSTAR 2-in-1 Espresso Machine?
The machine has a 600 ml water tank. This capacity is suitable for regular home use, although you may need to refill it when preparing multiple cups in succession.
7. Does the COSTAR 2-in-1 make good-quality espresso?
Customer feedback is generally positive, with users frequently describing the coffee as rich, flavourful and satisfying. Some customers also report a layer of crema. However, the final taste depends on the coffee used and the preparation method.
8. Is the COSTAR 2-in-1 Espresso Machine suitable for small kitchens?
Yes, its compact dimensions of approximately 28 × 11.5 × 25 cm make it suitable for kitchens with limited counter space, apartments and smaller homes.
9. Is the COSTAR 2-in-1 Espresso Machine easy to clean?
Routine cleaning is generally straightforward. The machine has removable components, including a water tank and drip tray, which help simplify daily maintenance. The filter and other parts should also be cleaned according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
10. Does the COSTAR 2-in-1 require descaling?
Yes, descaling is important to remove mineral deposits that can build up inside the machine. It may be particularly necessary in areas with hard water. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the appropriate descaling frequency.
11. Is the COSTAR 2-in-1 Espresso Machine reliable for long-term use?
Available customer feedback is mostly positive, but there are some reported reliability concerns, including an isolated case of the machine stopping within a year. Some customers also report helpful support experiences. Check the warranty, replacement policy and available service options before buying.
12. Is the COSTAR 2-in-1 Espresso Machine worth buying?
The COSTAR 2-in-1 is worth considering if you want a compact, easy-to-use espresso machine that supports both capsules and ground coffee. However, it may not suit users who need built-in milk frothing, advanced brewing controls or the ability to prepare several cups simultaneously.
13. Can the COSTAR 2-in-1 help save money on coffee?
It may help reduce spending on café-bought coffee if you use it regularly at home. Actual savings depend on the purchase price, frequency of use, coffee costs and any additional accessories you need.
14. What should you check before buying the COSTAR 2-in-1 Espresso Machine?
Before purchasing, verify the exact model, compatible capsules, current price, warranty terms and after-sales support arrangements. Also, consider whether you need a separate milk frother and whether the machine’s single-cup preparation style suits your household.
15. Who should buy the COSTAR 2-in-1 Espresso Machine?
It is best suited to home coffee drinkers who value convenience, compact design and the flexibility to switch between capsules and ground coffee. People who want an all-in-one espresso and milk-frothing machine or more advanced brewing control may prefer a different model.
Final Verdict: A Convenient Espresso Machine With One Important Catch
The COSTAR 2-in-1 Espresso Machine makes a good case for itself as a compact, easy-to-use coffee maker for home use.
Its strongest advantages are the ability to use both capsules and coffee powder, quick preparation, simple controls and generally positive feedback about coffee quality. The compact design and removable components also make it practical for everyday use.
The main consideration is what the machine does not offer. The listed model does not include a steam wand, so buyers looking for an all-in-one espresso and milk-frothing machine should look elsewhere or budget for a separate frother.
Maintenance is another part of ownership to keep in mind. Descaling may be necessary, especially with hard water, and although the available feedback includes positive support experiences, there is also an isolated report of early failure.
The COSTAR 2-in-1 is best suited to someone who wants convenient espresso and the flexibility to switch between capsules and ground coffee. If that describes your coffee habits, it offers a useful combination of features without demanding much counter space or a complicated routine.
Before purchasing, verify the exact model, capsule compatibility, warranty and current price.