The ACM Milano Homey is one of the most affordable dual-boiler espresso machines we are aware of. The basic version is available for just €979, despite featuring the proven Faema E61 brew group. Of course, you should expect some compromises at this price point; nevertheless, the ACM Homey can be tuned to produce good espresso. In this review, we share our thoughts on the machine, how we use it, and which coffees are suitable for it.
Find out more about how it compares to 11 other dual-boiler espresso machines here.
Faema E61 Brew Group on the ACM Homey
The principle of the Faema E61 brew group has been tried and tested for years. Thanks to the circulating water in the thermosyphon, the entire group is heated, and you can generally expect constant temperatures. It is important to preheat the espresso machine well and, especially during the first use, to draw water so that the thermosyphon fills up. Warm-up times of 20 to 25 minutes should always be factored in for a Faema E61 brew group in order to reach the desired target temperatures. Actuating the lever opens the valves and allows water to flow onto the coffee.
Dual-boiler espresso machines with Faema E61 brew groups tend to overheat if left unused for long periods. The ACM Homey is also prone to this. A "cooling flush"—running water for a few seconds without the portafilter inserted—can help cool the temperature down to a desirable range.
With the ACM Homey, we had to flush for quite a long time to bring the brew water temperature close to the optimal brewing range, which is around 93 degrees Celsius. Without a long flush, we sometimes measured brew temperatures well over 96 degrees. During the actual brewing time, the temperature is relatively constant, fluctuating by about 0.8 degrees.
Which coffee for high temperatures?
The high temperatures during the brewing phase particularly emphasize an unpleasant bitterness in the espresso and often lead to a dry aftertaste. The acidity is unbalanced, and the espresso is not well-rounded. This is especially true if the coffee used has bitter notes of its own.
Bitterness is caused by the choice of green coffee and the roasting process. Darker roasts have a significantly more pronounced bitterness, which often features unpleasant metallic and harsh aspects. This bitterness is triggered by the formation of phenylindanes, which we have discussed in a separate article.
Espresso blends with a high Robusta content also tend to be more bitter and are less suitable, unless it is explicitly very high-quality Robusta.
Our advice: use lighter roasts with higher temperatures, as with the ACM Homey. These are hard to find in supermarkets and even more so among espresso roasts (if at all, look for filter roasts).
Specialty coffees, which are generally roasted lighter, are much better suited for higher brew temperatures. A selection of roasteries specializing in specialty coffee has signed up for our Kaffee-Panel project. Just give them a try!
Build Quality and Technical Information of the ACM Milano Homey
With a width of 27 cm, a depth of 40 cm, and a height of 40 cm, the ACM Milano is average in size. It is neither particularly compact nor huge—it's a typical mid-sized dual-boiler. The machine's weight of 18 kg is also similar to many other dual-boilers. It has a built-in vibration pump that generates a fair amount of noise. This is partly because it is simply screwed on, and there are no rubber mounts or similar to dampen the rattling of the lid and drip tray.
The machine's boiler has a volume of 1.5 liters and draws its water from a 2.8-liter tank. The tank can be removed for refilling—though it takes some wrestling and effort. There are effectively no handles or space for your fingers to grip it well. Our test machine had some dirt residue in the water container, and there were also some scratch marks and dust on the machine. A thorough cleaning before the first use is necessary.
The water container itself feels higher quality than, for example, that of a Bezzera BZ10. It also functions without hoses and connects well to the machine via a valve.
The many sharp edges of the machine are noticeable. Hardly any espresso machine between 1000 and 2000 euros has perfectly rounded edges, so you can hardly expect that from the cheapest one on the market. Nevertheless, this point should be mentioned, and caution is advised, especially when removing the drip tray or opening the water tank lid.
Speaking of the drip tray: it is rather small because the space under the cover is not fully utilized.
The rail, however, is made of metal, which is a point in its favor compared to the Rocket Appartamento, for example, which costs significantly more but only comes with a plastic rail. The metal version must be purchased separately.
The scope of delivery includes a plastic tamper, which should be the first thing replaced by a solid tamper. Plastic tampers are the best way to prevent good extractions because they make consistent work impossible.
Also included: a single portafilter, a double portafilter, and a metal brush. We are puzzled by the intended use of the metal brush. Please do not use it to clean your machine!
By the way: in the pictures and the video, you can see the machine with a shot timer, which costs 120 euros more than the basic version.
High temperature? Good for milk frothing!
The high base temperature in the boiler, which leads to excessive brewing temperatures, is, however, a plus for preparing milk foam and cappuccinos.
When frothing, we have so much steam pressure that a large pitcher can easily be frothed and the milk starts to roll wonderfully. This is especially fun when you have several guests and want to practice latte art.
However, the steam wand gets very hot, including the rubber grip meant for handling it. The temperature, which is an advantage in one regard, becomes a disadvantage here.
The cappuccinos prepared were very tasty and looked great.
Conclusion on the ACM Milano Homey
The ACM Homey is an entry-level opportunity to enter the world of dual-boiler espresso machines. You have to accept compromises in terms of finish, but you get a solid espresso machine. The technology used is proven and will provide good service in the long run—provided it is maintained and cleaned.
Important: use lighter espresso roasts, as the brew temperature is a bit too hot. A long pre-flush helps to bring the temperature into a good range. Those who enjoy cappuccinos will get their money's worth with the ACM Homey. The machine really packs a punch! The steam wand is almost too hot to touch, but all the better for frothing.
Since milk foam is sweet and also balances out the likely somewhat more bitter espressos, we see the ACM primarily as a machine for milk drink lovers.
In our Home Barista Course, you will learn how to prepare the perfect espresso. Now also available online!
Go to the overview of all tested espresso machines.
