Philips 3200 vs 3100, which espresso machine is better? After considering all features of the convenient aspect, I have decided that Philips 3200 is the winner.
Philips 3200 is one of the most well-rounded and affordable espresso makers I have ever tested. Every operational feature of this machine performs well. I enjoy the espresso quality, which is very balanced and rich. The milk system is phenomenal as well since it can froth microfoam. I recommend this model to every group of users, but mostly couples, because of its water tank capacity.
Philips 3100 can’t beat 3200. This machine sure can make delicious espresso with a nice layer of crema. But it offers less stability during the extraction, and the engine is overall noisy. I will get into the details now.
Philips 3200 Vs 3100: Specs & Features Comparison Chart
Last update on 2024-04-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Philips 3200 Vs 3100: Differences
Philips 3200 wins 3-1 against Philips 3100 thanks to its overall better performance in drinks quality and stability during the entire extraction process. The touchscreen also is a lovely modern touch that leaves me with a good impression. You can find out how these machines make espresso and coffee below.
Coffee flavor: Philips 3200
+Grinder
The ceramic burr grinder is the type that Philips 3200 and Philips 3100 use to mill coffee beans to an adequate texture that brings out the best flavor possible. While 3200 has 12 grinder settings, 3100 has 5 only. And here is my advice:
If you are a first-timer looking for a simple model, 3100 is a good choice since the grinder has 5 standard settings. You won’t have to test too many times to find out the setting that works best with your taste and the beans you use.
If you want a machine to change the final espresso flavor through grinder settings deliberately, 3200 is the better pick. The stronger the setting, the finer the ground, and the stronger the flavor. With 12 settings available, you can meticulously decide the final taste.
Performance-wise, Philips 3200 is twice as good as the 3100. They both can deliver even ground texture, but 3200 has a more stable grinder. It doesn’t make much noise, unlike 3100, which tends to be very loud, in my opinion. I also notice slightly more leftover ground in the 3100’s grinder than 3200’s.
+Dosing + tamping
We are looking at 2 super-automatic machines right now, which explains preprogrammed dosing and tamping. I don’t have to intervene much with these devices unless I want to.
For example, they both have a temperature adjustment feature, and it’s possible to change the aroma strength. If I want a hotter cup or a cup with a less heavy coffee smell, I can change things manually.
+Heating system
Both machines use a single boiler heating system to heat water, and it’s not the most impressive technology out there. From my judgment, they brew coffees that are perfect for enjoying right away without burning our tongues. But the coffee temperature isn’t too cool either. And with the small price tag, I think they are good picks for value and price.
Milk System: Philips 3200
Firstly, I want to comment that Philips 3200 and Philips 3100 are great at making dry foam. Thanks to these devices, I have been able to brew some very impressive cappuccinos.
But there is a catch here: 3200 uses a steam wand while 3100 works with an automatic carafe. Users don’t have to touch or move anything to get dry foam with the carafe. However, this milk system offers less control over the final milk texture than the steam wand.
So when I want to make steamed milk with a creamy texture, it’s easier with 3200. And when I want dry foam, I can work the milk jug a bit more to bring the milk to the right consistency that I need.
Also, Philips 3100’s milk system is boisterous as well. And I don’t have any method to improve the noise condition since the carafe is a fixed system, which hardly provides any chance for adjustment.
Utilities: Philips 3100
Let’s check Philips 3200 first. This model is quite basic, so it doesn’t have many additional features related to the beverages. The thing that I like about it is that it has a one-touch Americano feature which helps brew the most balanced cup of this kind.
As for Philips 3100, it boasts of a bigger container for used coffee, and it has one-touch cappuccino. If you are in a hurry, this feature is super convenient since you can focus on other tasks while the machine handles the entire brewing process, from extracting espresso to frothing milk.
Cleaning & Maintain: Philips 3200
Thanks to its elaborate alarm system designed for cleaning, Philips 3200 wins the round. On the interface of this device, I can find various warnings about descaling, rinsing, and changing the water filter. These warnings help a lot when I don’t have the means to keep up with the washing task, given that I own tons of products for review.
One thing about maintenance that I like about both machines is that they both rinse the systems when turning on or shutting off. This mechanism ensures that the espresso will come out delicious without the old and moldy smell.
Philips 3200 Vs 3100: Similarities
Next, I will highlight 2 slight similarities in features between Philips 3200 and Philips 3100.
Good microfoam quality
What impresses me the most are the milk systems of these devices. Despite belonging to the “cheap” price range for espresso machines, Philips 3200 and Philips 3100 have potent milk systems. Both can froth dry and airy foam that we usually see in cappuccinos and lattes made by pro-baristas.
Adjustable spout height
This feature is widespread among espresso machines. With Philips 3200, I can adjust the spout from 3.3 to 5.7 inches measuring from the drip tray. With 3100, I don’t have the exact number, but the spout can reach as high as 6 inches away from the drip tray.
I have tested these machines for around 2 months, and in general, a small cup (7 – 8oz) works the best since the drip tray is relatively small, and the steam wand or milk carafe will be in the way.
Quick Rundown of Philips 3200
- With Philips 3200 Series easily make up to 5 black and milk-based coffee varieties at the touch of a button! Enjoy the delicious taste and aroma of coffee from fresh beans at the perfect temperature
- Classic Milk Frother System: Dispenses steam, allowing you to easily prepare silky smooth milk froth for your cappuccino
- Intuitive Touch Display: Select the perfect coffee for your mood with just one touch
- My Coffee Choice Menu: Adjust the strength and quantity of your beverage and choose from three different settings to suit your preferences. The Aroma Extract system intelligently strikes the optimum balance between brewing temperature and aroma extraction
- Powerful Filter and Easy Maintenance: Thanks to the AquaClean, enjoy clear and purified water - by changing the filter after being prompted by the machine, you will not need to descale your machine for up to 5000 cups
Last update on 2024-04-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Quick Rundown of Philips 3100
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References:
- Philips 3200: https://www.usa.philips.com/c-p/EP3221_44/series-3200-fully-automatic-espresso-machines
- Philips 3100: https://www.philips.ca/c-p/EP3360_14/3100-series-fully-automatic-espresso-machines
Felix Hendricks is a skilled barista with over 12 years of experience. He excels in crafting coffee and has a strong foundation in coffee machine mechanics. Felix holds a Coffee Machine Maintenance Certification from the Coffee Equipment Technical Institute, showcasing his ability to diagnose and repair coffee machines. He’s also worked as a quality control specialist, selecting premium coffee beans for optimal flavor. Felix has a diverse work history, including stints at renowned coffee spots like Café Euphoria & Starbucks. His expertise in both brewing and machine maintenance makes him a respected figure in the coffee industry.