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Mr. Coffee Pump Espresso Maker brings the cafe home for less cash (pictures)

The $90 Pump Espresso Maker built by Mr. Coffee lets you treat yourself to stiff java drinks mellowed by sweet steamed milk right at home. That doesn't mean they're top quality.

Brian Bennett
Brian Bennett is a former senior writer for the home and outdoor section at CNET.
Brian Bennett
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Small but not quite compact

The Mr. Coffee Pump Espresso Maker is small but not as compact as other budget home espresso gadgets.

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2 of 10 Tyler Lizenby/CNET

Simple-to-grasp controls

With just two buttons flanked by a pair of status lights, the controls are straightforward.

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3 of 10 Tyler Lizenby/CNET

Fine not super-fine

Like lots of other vibration pump-powered espresso gizmos, this machine can handle medium-fine but not very fine coffee grounds.

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Tamp it down

The plastic scoop tool also doubles as a tamping implement.

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The portafilter attaches to the brew head

Before you brew you must attach the filled portafilter to the brew head and lock it into place.

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Turn the dial to kick things off

A control dial sits on the left side of the machine. It has positions for brew, steam and off.

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7 of 10 Tyler Lizenby/CNET

Pull your shot of joe and hope for the best

Pulling a quality shot with the Mr. Coffee  Pump Espresso Maker is hard to do, but is certainly possible.

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8 of 10 Tyler Lizenby/CNET

Froth for all its worth

With just binary action, either on or off, frothing steamed milk with finesse is a challenge.

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Soften the blow

No matter how harsh an espresso shot turns out, chances are good that mixing it with sweet steamed milk will make it taste much better.

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It's cappuccino time

If all you desire are espresso-based steamed milk concoctions then this machine just might satisfy.

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