Saeco Xelsis Vs Philips 5400: Which One Is Better?

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Are you considering the Saeco Xelsis vs Philips 5400 and wonder which one is better, or at least suits you best? My short answer is that the Xelsis outperforms in almost every aspect.

The Saeco Xelsis boasts better construction, offers more one-touch drink options, and provides you with greater control over every single drink. As for the Philips 5400, its primary advantage lies in its significantly lower price tag.

Saeco Xelsis Vs Philips 5400: Specs & Features Comparison Chart

Image
THE WINNER (#1)
PHILIPS Saeco Xelsis Super Automatic Espresso Machine - LatteDuo Milk System, 15 Coffee Varieties, 6 User Profiles, Touchscreen, Black & Titanium, (SM7684/04)
THE RUNNER-UP (#2)
PHILIPS Phlips 5400 Fully Automatic Espresso Machine with LatteGo, EP5447/94
Model
Saeco Xelsis
Philips 5400
Dimensions/Weight
15.5 x 11.3 x 19.1 inches/23.2 lbs
9.7 x 14.6 x 17 inches/17.7 lbs
Interface
Touch Display
Non-touch Display
One Touch Drink Options
15
13
Built-in Grinder
Ceramic Flat Burr Grinder
Ceramic Flat Burr Grinder
Grinding Settings
12
12
Heating System
Dual Thermoblocks
Single Thermoblock
Pump Pressure
15 Bars
15 Bars
Pre-Infusion
Milk Frothing System
Auto-Frothing System
Auto-Frothing System
Spigot Type/Cup Clearance
Dual/3-6 inches
Dual/3.3-6.9 inches
Water Reservoir/Bean Hopper
1.7 L/0.34 Kg
1.8 L/0.27 Kg
Filter
Yes (Optional)
Yes (Optional)
Compatible With Pre-ground Coffee
App Connectivity
User Profile
What I Like
Price
Price not available
Price not available
THE WINNER (#1)
Image
PHILIPS Saeco Xelsis Super Automatic Espresso Machine - LatteDuo Milk System, 15 Coffee Varieties, 6 User Profiles, Touchscreen, Black & Titanium, (SM7684/04)
Model
Saeco Xelsis
Dimensions/Weight
15.5 x 11.3 x 19.1 inches/23.2 lbs
Interface
Touch Display
One Touch Drink Options
15
Built-in Grinder
Ceramic Flat Burr Grinder
Grinding Settings
12
Heating System
Dual Thermoblocks
Pump Pressure
15 Bars
Pre-Infusion
Milk Frothing System
Auto-Frothing System
Spigot Type/Cup Clearance
Dual/3-6 inches
Water Reservoir/Bean Hopper
1.7 L/0.34 Kg
Filter
Yes (Optional)
Compatible With Pre-ground Coffee
App Connectivity
User Profile
What I Like
Price
Price not available
More Info
THE RUNNER-UP (#2)
Image
PHILIPS Phlips 5400 Fully Automatic Espresso Machine with LatteGo, EP5447/94
Model
Philips 5400
Dimensions/Weight
9.7 x 14.6 x 17 inches/17.7 lbs
Interface
Non-touch Display
One Touch Drink Options
13
Built-in Grinder
Ceramic Flat Burr Grinder
Grinding Settings
12
Heating System
Single Thermoblock
Pump Pressure
15 Bars
Pre-Infusion
Milk Frothing System
Auto-Frothing System
Spigot Type/Cup Clearance
Dual/3.3-6.9 inches
Water Reservoir/Bean Hopper
1.8 L/0.27 Kg
Filter
Yes (Optional)
Compatible With Pre-ground Coffee
App Connectivity
User Profile
What I Like
Price
Price not available
More Info

Last update on 2024-12-08 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Saeco Xelsis Vs Philips 5400: Differences

The Saeco Xelsis clearly outperformed the Philips 5400 with a decisive score of 4-0. Does that mean the Philips 5400 is trash? Not really!

Coffee Flavor & Brewing System

Winner: Saeco Xelsis

Built-in Grinder 

Both come equipped with a 12-level ceramic flat burr grinder, which is pretty nifty if you ask me. I don’t know which brand was the trailblazer in ushering ceramic into the realm of built-in grinders, but they have some serious perks over their stainless steel counterparts.

they both have 12 grind settings
They both have 12 grind settings

Ceramic grinders crush the beans with minimal heat, which keeps the oils in your coffee beans safe and makes your espresso rich and burst with flavor. They also last longer than steel grinders and are whisper-quiet when running.

Both also have a pre-ground bypass chute. Now, I know what you’re thinking: “Who buys an automatic bean-to-cup machine to use pre-ground coffee?” And you’re right, but it really is a lifesaver when you run out of coffee beans.

Heating System

Without beating around the bush, the Saeco Xelsis has dual thermoblocks, whereas the Philips 5400 has one. What does this mean? The Saeco Xelsis can brew espresso and prepare milk froth at once – all at the perfect temperature for each task.

Still, the Philips 5400 doesn’t leave you hanging around the counter waiting for your morning cup of Joe since its thermoblock system heats up very fast. The machine extracts the espresso first, followed by steaming the milk in just a few seconds.

Brewing System 

If you are a knowledgeable coffee lover, the fact that both of these machines have pre-infusion would perk up your ears. But if you’re new to the game, let me tell you that this step is very important. By moistening the puck with hot water at low pressure before the main extraction begins, pre-infusion can lead to a more nuanced and balanced cup.

The Saeco Xelsis is even better with the ability to adjust the length of the pre-infusion step by sliding the “Taste” bar. The manufacturer might have left this tidbit out, but now you’re in the know.

By the way, both also use a mighty 15-bar pressure pump, which is another good thing with extraction since a pressure of 9 bars is the minimum to get a real shot.

the “taste” bar indeed relates to the duration of the pre-infusion step
The “Taste” bar indeed relates to the duration of the pre-infusion step

All the things are good, but the espresso is on the weak side on the Philips 5400, and I know why. The espresso brews too rapidly, and this is due to the filter basket having holes that are too large. These oversized holes don’t permit the coffee grounds to be extracted properly, which results in a less robust espresso.

Design & Convenience

Winner: Saeco Xelsis

Dimensions & User Interface

Saeco XelsisPhilips 5400
Dimensions11.3 x 15.5 x 19.1 inches9.7 x 14.6 x 17 inches
Weight23.2 lbs17.7 lbs

Both are made of durable black plastic with a couple of stainless steel accents that give them a stylish and modern look without actually raising the price. The Saeco Xelsis is the bulkier and heavier option, but this isn’t much of an issue since its water container is front-loading, eliminating the need to move the espresso machine for refills, and so does the Philips 5400.

The Philips 5400 features an intuitive touchscreen display, but in reality, it feels more akin to a high-tech control panel peppered with touch buttons. Indeed, there are a lineup of touch buttons for drinks and control, as well as a small LCD screen in the center displaying all the settings and information about the brewing process.

the philips lattego 5400's control panel
The Philips Lattego 5400’s control panel

The Saeco Xelsis also has a touchscreen that truly mimics the swipe-and-scroll experience we’ve all come to love on our smartphones, so there’s no steep learning curve here. The real fun begins when you dive into its vast ocean of settings to craft the perfect coffee recipes.

the saeco xelsis's touchscreen
The Saeco Xelsis’s touchscreen

Spout Type & Cup Clearance

Saeco XelsisPhilips 5400
Spout TypeDualDual
Cup Clearance3-6 inches3.3-6.9 inches

Their coffee spouts are adjustable to fit various cup sizes, a feature that’s pretty standard fare across the board for super-automatic coffee machines, so it doesn’t blow my mind.

Both can brew two cups of black coffee drinks at once, but unique to the Saeco Xelsis is the ability to do this with all the milk-based drinks. Sure, there aren’t many machines that can prepare two cups of cappuccino at the same time so this feature definitely gets a thumbs up for convenience.

the saeco xelsis can brew two cups  of milky drinks at once
The Saeco Xelsis can brew two cups of milky drinks at once

Water Reservoir & Bean Hopper

Saeco XelsisPhilips 5400
Water Reservoir1.7 liters1.8 liter
Bean Hopper0.34 kilogram0.27 kilogram

As I mentioned above, their water tanks are front-loading, so removing them to top up is super easy. Their brew groups are fully detachable as well, which is a good thing since you’re better off getting into the habit of frequently removing this part and rinsing it thoroughly. Their drip trays are removable as well and both have a floater that indicates when they get full and should be drained.

Milk Frothing System

Winner: Saeco Xelsis

Both have the ability to steam milk automatically, so you almost don’t have to do anything to make a cappuccino or latte macchiato. Sure, they don’t give you any control over the frothing process and are unable to create the microfoam necessary for intricate latte art.

The Philips 5400’s innovative LatteGo milk frothing system includes a clear container and an outlet for directing milk into your cup. Attaching and detaching the milk container from the coffee machine is a breeze. Just be careful when positioning your mug under the system – if placed too far back, it may lead to spills.

the philips 5400’s lattego milk system
The Philips 5400’s LatteGo milk system

You don’t need to worry about leftover milk crusting, thanks to its tubeless design. The whole system can be conveniently washed under the tap or placed in the dishwasher for cleaning.

Still, I have a few complaints about the LatteGo system. One issue is the absence of rubber grips on the lid, which requires extra caution to prevent the lid from slipping when moving it to and from the fridge. Additionally, the system doesn’t do a good job of texturing milk, just resulting in a slight layer of foam on the surface.

On the other hand, the Saeco Xelsis’s milk system, which is called LatteDuo, also includes a high-quality milk carafe. The machine also flushes its milk system itself with hot steam after each use, and the carafe can also be stored in the refrigerator.

the saeco xelsis's latteduo milk system
The Saeco Xelsis’s LatteDuo milk system

The foam that comes from the Saeco Xelsis is somewhat dense, yet at least it’s delicious and elegant for a nice cappuccino and decent latte. Saeco has clearly learned a few tricks.

Drink Options & Programmability

Winner: Saeco Xelsis

Drink Options

Saeco XelsisPhilips 5400
Coffee
Espresso
Ristretto
Espresso Lungo
Americano
Flat White
Latte Macchiato
Cappuccino
Caffe Latte
Cafe AU Lait
Cortado
Milk Froth
Warm Milk
Hot Water
Espresso
Coffee
Americano
Cappuccino
Latte macchiato
Caffe latte
Flat white
Café au lait
Cafe Crema
Espresso Lungo
Ristretto
ToGo Mug
Hot Water

Both bring to the table an array of over a dozen one-touch coffee specialties. I think this extensive selection may seem excessive for home use, potentially leaving many options remaining underutilized, but it’s better to have a wide range of choices at your disposal.

Both machines also provide the option to use pre-ground coffee, which comes in handy if I run out of whole beans or if your guests are in the mood for decaf drinks. Plus, if you’re just looking for hot water for tea, they’ve got that covered too.

both have a bypass doser
Both have a bypass doser

Programmability

Adjustable SettingsSaeco XelsisPhilips 5400
Coffee StrengthYesYes
Coffee TemperatureYesYes
Milk Foam TemperatureNoNo
Milk Foam TextureYesNo

The Philips 5400 offers me the flexibility to adjust the bean strength, shot volume, brewing temperature, and amount of milk, each with 5 levels of customization. I can then save these settings to a user profile. Interestingly, it features four user profiles, which are differentiated by colors instead of names.

The Saeco Xelsis also allows you to adjust the temperature, milk froth and coffee dosage for your drinks via sliders, just like an audio equalizer allows you to adjust the bass and treble on your tunes. The fun doesn’t stop there, though. You can also decide whether milk or espresso is dispensed first. This one is also very impressive, with six user profiles for personalized drinks.

Quick Rundown Of Saeco Xelsis

PHILIPS Saeco Xelsis Super Automatic Espresso Machine - LatteDuo Milk System, 15 Coffee Varieties, 6 User Profiles, Touchscreen, Black & Titanium, (SM7684/04)
  • With Philips Saeco Xelsis easily make up to 15 coffee varieties from common Espresso and Capuccino to specialty coffees like Flat White or Americano. Simply swipe the touchscreen to select the drink and customize it with our intuitive Coffee Equalizer.Filter type:Reusable.Power consumption stand-by : 0.5W, Drip tray capacity : 500 ml
  • 15 Coffee Varieties at Your Fingertips: Explore the world of coffee - Espresso, cappuccino, macchiato, and a range of specialty drinks
  • Personalized Preferences: Everyone’s custom coffee favorites can be saved in up to 6 user profiles for instant selection. Personalize each profile down to the finest detail
  • LatteDuo Milk System: Prepare and enjoy single or double serving of any coffee recipe with one touch, including Cappuccino or Latte Macchiato
  • Double Thermo Blocks: Dedicated for both brewing and steaming offer accurate temperature controls for every drink in your recipe book

Last update on 2024-12-08 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Pros
  • Two thermoblocks.
  • A long list of one-touch drinks.
  • Brews two milk-based drinks at ones.
  • 6 user profiles.
  • Ceramic grinder doesn’t overheat.
Cons
  • Takes time to understand all the settings.

Quick Rundown Of Philips 5400

PHILIPS Phlips 5400 Fully Automatic Espresso Machine with LatteGo, EP5447/94
  • 12 delicious fresh bean coffees, easier than ever Easily make aromatic coffee varieties like Espresso, Coffee, Cappuccino, and Latte Macchiato at the touch of a button. LatteGo tops milk varieties with silky smooth froth, is easy to set up, and can be cleaned in as little as 15 seconds*
  • Silky smooth milk froth thanks to the high-speed LatteGo system Top your coffee off with a silky-smooth layer of milk froth. The LatteGo mixes milk and air at high speed in the round frothing chamber, then adds a splash-free, creamy layer of milk froth to your cup at just the right temperature.
  • Easy selection of your coffee with the intuitive display There's little standing between you and your next delicious cup of coffee with our easy-to-use display. In a few steps, you can customize your fresh-bean flavour and flow smoothly from craving to cup.
  • Adjust aroma and volume with the coffee customizer Make any coffee your own with the coffee customizer's easily adjustable settings for intensity, coffee, and milk length.
  • Even more flavour thanks to the extra shot function Boost your drink's intensity with the coffee customizer's extra-shot feature, which adds powerful flavour without bitterness.

Last update on 2024-12-08 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Pros
  • Easy to use and clean.
  • Looks stylish.
  • Great ceramic burr grinder.
  • Four user profiles.
  • A lot of one-touch drinks.
Cons
  • Weak espresso.
  • One boiler.

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