Overview
The Faema President is a robust, traditional commercial espresso machine built for high-volume environments where simplicity and reliability matter more than cutting-edge technology. The massive 10-liter copper boiler provides virtually unlimited steam capacity, and the E61 group heads deliver consistent extraction through their proven thermosiphon circulation. The President serves as Faema's entry-level commercial offering, popular in trattorias, bakeries, and cafés across Italy and the Mediterranean where equipment is expected to operate reliably for decades with minimal electronics that could fail. Available in 2-group and 3-group configurations, the President represents the traditional Italian approach to commercial espresso engineering.
The Faema President comes equipped with pre-infusion for even extraction. It features a heat exchanger boiler system made of copper with a 10000 ml capacity. The rotary pump delivers 9.0 bars of pressure for optimal extraction.
Priced at $7,000, the Faema President is designed for passionate enthusiasts and semi-commercial users who accept nothing but the best. As a semi-automatic machine, it gives you control over the brewing process while handling pressure and temperature automatically.
In terms of build quality, the Faema President is a substantial machine, weighing in at 70.0 kg, manufactured in Italy, drawing 4500W of power. With dimensions of 860 x 550 x 445 mm (W×D×H), make sure you have adequate counter space. This machine requires direct plumbing, which provides unlimited water supply but needs professional installation.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Pre-infusion gently saturates the coffee puck before full pressure, improving extraction evenness
- Heat exchanger provides steam on demand while maintaining stable brew temperature
- Iconic E61 group head provides excellent thermal stability and a vast ecosystem of aftermarket accessories
- Standard 58mm portafilter is compatible with a wide range of third-party baskets and accessories
- Built-in cup warmer keeps your cups at optimal temperature
- Rotary pump is quieter and more durable than vibratory alternatives, with consistent pressure delivery
Cons
- No PID temperature control — requires temperature surfing for consistent results
- Heavy at 70.0 kg — difficult to move once placed, requires sturdy counter space
- Premium price point at $7,000 represents a significant investment
- Requires direct plumbing — professional installation needed, not easily relocated
Full Specifications
| Brand | Faema |
|---|---|
| Model | Faema President |
| Category | Semi-Auto |
| Status | Current |
| Country of Origin | Italy |
| Year Introduced | 2015 |
| Boiler Type | Heat Exchanger |
| Boiler Material | Copper |
| Boiler Capacity | 10000 ml |
| Pump Type | Rotary |
| Pump Pressure | 9.0 bar |
| PID Control | No |
| Pre-Infusion | Yes |
| Pressure Profiling | No |
| Flow Control | No |
| Group Head | E61 |
| Portafilter Diameter | 58 mm |
| Steam Wand | Commercial |
| Water Source | Plumbed |
| Cup Warmer | Yes |
| Dimensions (W x D x H) | 860 x 550 x 445 mm |
| Weight | 70.0 kg (154.3 lbs) |
| Wattage | 4500 W |
| Voltage | 220V |
| MSRP | $7,000 |
Our Verdict
The Faema President uses a heat exchanger design — the time-tested middle ground between single and dual boiler machines. You get steam-on-demand alongside brewing, though temperature management requires more attention than a true dual boiler. HX machines reward users who learn their machine's quirks with excellent, characterful espresso.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the Faema President designed for?
The Faema President at $7,000 is a prosumer-grade machine designed for experienced home baristas who want near-commercial quality. It's not ideal as a first machine, but it's an excellent upgrade for those ready to invest in their espresso passion.
How often does the Faema President need maintenance?
Regular maintenance includes daily backflushing (for machines with solenoid valves), weekly cleaning of the group head and portafilter, and descaling every 1-3 months depending on water hardness. Using filtered water significantly reduces scale buildup and extends machine life.
What grinder should I use with the Faema President?
A prosumer machine like this deserves a premium grinder. Consider the Niche Zero ($600), Eureka Mignon XL ($700), DF64 variants, or premium options like the Weber EG-1 or Lagom P64. The grinder should match or exceed the machine's capability for best results.
Is the Faema President worth $7,000?
The Faema President's value depends on your commitment to espresso. If you drink espresso daily, a quality machine pays for itself vs. cafe purchases within 6-12 months. The Faema President offers the proven E61 group head at its price point, making it a sound investment for regular espresso drinkers.
Recommended Grinder Pairings for the Faema President
A good grinder is essential for getting the most out of your espresso machine. Here are some grinders that pair well at this price level:
