I tested the Philips Café Aromis 8000 Series — and this superautomatic espresso machine is my biggest $2,000-shaped disappointment of 2026
The Philips Café Aromis 8000 Series is a gorgeous, gorgeous superautomatic coffee machine, but it’s way too expensive.
After extensive testing of numerous fully automatic espresso machines, I have found the Philips Café Aromis 8000 Series to be the most disappointing of 2026. The machine boasts an attractive design with a wood-veneer group head, cup warmer, and commercial-like silver rails. However, its high price point of $1,999 in the U.S. ($2,000) and limited milk options earn it a spot in my "disappointment" list.
The Philips Café Aromis 8000 Series is priced at $1,999 on Amazon U.S. and £895 in the U.K., making it a premium investment. Similar options, such as the KitchenAid KF8 and De'Longhi PrimaDonna Aromatic, are also available for comparable prices. For those looking for a more affordable choice, the De'Longhi Rivelia ($1,499) and Smeg BCC13 ($749) are viable alternatives.
The machine's appearance is undeniably stunning, with a glossy wood veneer on the portafilter and a sleek design. However, the app functionality, which allows users to customize and save up to eight drinks, lacks depth and purpose. The app's language is also questionable, as it describes certain drinks as having a "slightly bitter taste," which is contrary to the desired taste profile of a latte.
Despite its flaws, the Philips Café Aromis 8000 Series does excel in ease of use, with one-touch operation for over 40 recipes. However, the machine's performance falls short of expectations, making it the most disappointing superautomatic espresso machine I have tested in 2026.
Written by urgent.news from Tom's Guide's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
