Is 20 bar better than 9 bar for espresso?

No. Espresso brews best around 9 bar, and most machines regulate down to that. A 20-bar pump rating is a maximum, not a sign of better taste.

Can it froth milk for cappuccino and latte?

Yes. The built-in steam wand froths milk, though it takes longer than the wands on dual-boiler machines and needs practice for microfoam.

How many shots does the 43 oz reservoir hold?

Roughly 8 to 10 single shots before a refill, depending on how much water you flush and steam. It is enough for a few drinks in one session.

No. It is a semi-automatic espresso machine only, so you need a separate burr grinder and fresh ground coffee.

Is it dishwasher safe?

No. The maker lists hand wash only, so rinse the portafilter, basket and drip tray by hand.

How does it compare with a De'Longhi Stilosa or Dedica?

It is similar in concept: a compact pump machine with a panarello-style steam wand. The De'Longhi models have a longer track record and more service support; the Plum Chef competes on its narrow body and 20-bar claim.

Plum Chef 20 Bar Espresso Machine with Milk Frother

Best price now

$140.21at Best BuyChecked Nov 8

Prices are checked against each store and labelled with when.

Visit Best Buy

Plum Chef 20 Bar Espresso Machine with Milk Frother

Best price now

$140.21at Best BuyChecked Nov 8

Prices are checked against each store and labelled with when.

Visit Best Buy

Ask our agent about this product

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Price facts

Last seen at $140.21 at Best Buy on Nov 8.

Our take on the Plum Chef 20 Bar Espresso Machine with Milk Frother

The Plum Chef is a compact semi-automatic espresso machine with a 20-bar pump, a 43 oz water reservoir and a built-in steam wand for frothing milk. Its narrow 5.5-inch body fits tight counters, and button controls keep the routine simple. The 20-bar rating is higher than the 9-bar brew pressure espresso actually needs, so treat it as marketing headroom rather than a quality signal. It suits beginners who want espresso and cappuccino at home without a large footprint, but it lacks the temperature control and build of pricier machines.

Best forFirst-time espresso drinkersSmall kitchens and tight countersMilk-drink fans who want a steam wandBudget-minded home baristas

Pros

Narrow 5.5-inch footprint saves counter space
20-bar pump and steam wand cover espresso and milk drinks
43 oz reservoir holds enough for several rounds
Simple button operation is easy to learn
One-year parts warranty

Cons

Semi-automatic: you time the shot and stop it yourself
No PID or temperature control, so shot consistency varies
Hand wash only, with no dishwasher-safe parts
Steam wand is slow to froth compared with dual-boiler machines
Plastic-heavy build feels less sturdy than metal rivals

Plum Chef 20 Bar Espresso Machine with Milk Frother prices at every store

Best BuyNew
In stock
$140.21Checked Nov 8
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Plum Chef 20 Bar Espresso Machine with Milk Frother price history

Lowest price we've seen: $140.21 on Nov 8 at Best Buy. Tracked across 1 store since Nov 8.

Specifications

Care And Cleaning Instructions: Hand wash
Automation Level: Semi-automatic
Product Width: 5.5 inches
Water Reservoir Capacity: 43 ounces
Control Type: Button
Warranty - Parts: 1 year

Questions and answers

Is 20 bar better than 9 bar for espresso?: No. Espresso brews best around 9 bar, and most machines regulate down to that. A 20-bar pump rating is a maximum, not a sign of better taste.
Can it froth milk for cappuccino and latte?: Yes. The built-in steam wand froths milk, though it takes longer than the wands on dual-boiler machines and needs practice for microfoam.
How many shots does the 43 oz reservoir hold?: Roughly 8 to 10 single shots before a refill, depending on how much water you flush and steam. It is enough for a few drinks in one session.
Does it grind beans?: No. It is a semi-automatic espresso machine only, so you need a separate burr grinder and fresh ground coffee.
Is it dishwasher safe?: No. The maker lists hand wash only, so rinse the portafilter, basket and drip tray by hand.
How does it compare with a De'Longhi Stilosa or Dedica?: It is similar in concept: a compact pump machine with a panarello-style steam wand. The De'Longhi models have a longer track record and more service support; the Plum Chef competes on its narrow body and 20-bar claim.
Where is the Plum Chef 20 Bar Espresso Machine with Milk Frother cheapest?: At Best Buy, for $140.21, as of our latest check.