Overview
The Krups EA8108 occupies the entry-level position in the Krups super-automatic range, offering the fundamental bean-to-cup experience at a price that makes it accessible to budget-conscious buyers. Despite its affordable positioning, the EA8108 includes a basic steam wand with Panarello attachment — a feature often absent from competing entry-level models — allowing you to froth milk manually for cappuccinos and lattes. The metal conical burr grinder provides consistent grinding, and the compact form factor fits easily into small kitchens. Two coffee strength settings and adjustable cup size give enough flexibility for daily use without overwhelming new users with options. The 1.8-liter water tank offers reasonable capacity, and the bean hopper holds enough for approximately twelve drinks. The simple button interface makes operation intuitive from day one — no manuals needed, no menu diving required. The removable brew group allows periodic deep cleaning, and automatic rinse programs run at startup and shutdown to keep internal components fresh. Build quality is honest for the price — functional plastic with good assembly rather than premium materials. For first-time super-automatic buyers or anyone seeking a functional bean-to-cup machine without a significant investment, the EA8108 proves that automated fresh coffee need not be expensive.
The Krups EA8108 comes equipped with pre-infusion for even extraction. It features a thermoblock boiler system made of stainless steel. The vibratory pump delivers 15.0 bars of pressure for optimal extraction.
Priced at $300, the Krups EA8108 is designed for home baristas looking for quality without breaking the bank. As a super-automatic machine, it handles everything from grinding to extraction at the touch of a button — perfect for convenience without sacrificing quality.
In terms of build quality, the Krups EA8108 is a substantial machine, weighing in at 7.5 kg, manufactured in France, drawing 1450W of power. With dimensions of 245 x 370 x 335 mm (W×D×H), make sure you have adequate counter space. The built-in water reservoir holds 1800 ml, making it easy to set up anywhere in your kitchen.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Pre-infusion gently saturates the coffee puck before full pressure, improving extraction evenness
- Stainless steel boiler is corrosion-resistant and easy to maintain
- Built-in cup warmer keeps your cups at optimal temperature
Cons
- Thermoblock heating may not match the temperature stability of traditional boiler designs
- Vibratory pump can be noisy and may not last as long as rotary alternatives under heavy use
- Panarello steam wand limits microfoam quality compared to a traditional commercial wand
Full Specifications
| Brand | Krups |
|---|---|
| Model | Krups EA8108 |
| Category | Super-Auto |
| Status | Current |
| Country of Origin | France |
| Year Introduced | 2016 |
| Boiler Type | Thermoblock |
| Boiler Material | Stainless Steel |
| Pump Type | Vibratory |
| Pump Pressure | 15.0 bar |
| PID Control | No |
| Pre-Infusion | Yes |
| Pressure Profiling | No |
| Flow Control | No |
| Group Head | Proprietary |
| Steam Wand | Panarello |
| Water Source | Reservoir |
| Reservoir Capacity | 1800 ml |
| Cup Warmer | Yes |
| Dimensions (W x D x H) | 245 x 370 x 335 mm |
| Weight | 7.5 kg (16.5 lbs) |
| Wattage | 1450 W |
| Voltage | 220V |
| MSRP | $300 |
Our Verdict
The Krups EA8108 is a solid choice for anyone who values convenience above all. Super-automatic machines trade manual control for one-touch simplicity, and this model delivers on that promise. At 300 dollars, it's a reasonable entry into bean-to-cup convenience. If you want hands-off espresso with minimal cleanup, this is worth considering. If you enjoy the ritual of manual espresso-making, look at semi-automatic options instead.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Krups EA8108 good for beginners?
Yes, the Krups EA8108 is excellent for beginners. As a super-automatic machine, it handles grinding, tamping, and extraction automatically. You just add beans and press a button. It's one of the easiest ways to get into espresso.
How often does the Krups EA8108 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 pair with the Krups EA8108?
At this price point, budget at least as much for a grinder as the machine itself. Popular choices include the Eureka Mignon series ($200-$400), Baratza Sette 270 ($300-$400), or a hand grinder like the 1Zpresso JX Pro ($160) for excellent grind quality on a budget.
Recommended Grinder Pairings for the Krups EA8108
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:
Hario V60 Electric Coffee Grinder Compact
Conical Burr
Knock Feld47
Hand Grinder
Kinu M47 Simplicity
Hand Grinder