On the outside, the Roxy Espresso is a minimalist. Two buttons, no steam wand, and no bells and whistles in the smallest possible space. However, this formal restraint is belied by the functional density slumbering within.
The espresso potential of the Roxy Espresso keeps up with any other espresso machine worldwide. As I write this sentence, I realize I am falling into the same understatement that characterizes the two founders and inventors of the Roxy, Florian Köpplinger and Maximilian Seyfert. No, the Roxy doesn't just keep up! It leaves others behind. A handful of espresso machines worldwide might keep up with the Roxy. But what is being built there in Fürstenfeldbruck, Bavaria, is the best espresso machine under 3000 Euros that we have ever tested – although the Roxy doesn't cost 3000 Euros, but 2300 Euros/Francs.
I have thought a lot about "understatement" since the Roxy espresso machine appeared on my horizon. That was in the summer of 2024. Back then, Florian Köpplinger visited us in Basel to present the Roxy before the Swiss Coffee Festival and to gather feedback.
In a sympathetic way, the Roxy bears a resemblance to its inventors. No, the two aren't particularly compact – they are quiet doers who don't trumpet what they have actually created out into the world. In the design and engineering world, "hidden complexity" best expresses what the Roxy is: Clear on the outside, highly complex on the inside. "Quiet Power" also fits. The machine isn't loud, but massively powerful. No showing off, no chrome, no bling – simply sovereignty.
Do you want to know more about the Roxy Espresso? Then take some time for this written report, our long or short test video, or the English translation.
Andrea Perin (Barista Trainer), Michel Indelicato (Coffee Demigod), Larissa Bürgi (Barista, Videographer), and Benjamin Hohlmann (Host) worked on this review.
Design and Build Quality: Pure Understatement
When you unpack the Roxy, you notice immediately: It is tiny. With a width of 16 centimeters and a depth of 30 centimeters, alongside the Zuriga, it is probably the most compact machine that truly deserves the name espresso machine. The housing made of anodized aluminum and the external glass water tank look high-quality. We look in vain for sharp edges or excessive gap dimensions, which is why we award a solid 7.5 out of 10 points for build quality here. Everything feels good to the touch, nothing rattles. According to the company, they rely on local production and recyclable materials wherever possible.
But where there is light, there is also shadow – or in this case, water. The drip tray is very tight at 350 milliliters and has no indicator to warn you before it spills over. Fiddling the tray out requires some finger acrobatics and led to minor floods now and then in our test. Another detail that is annoying in the workflow: When you flush, a residue of water always remains due to the design of the plate on the drip tray. It looks chic with the Roxy logo, but it is impractical because you constantly have to wipe it. A grid would have been the less beautiful but more pragmatic choice here.
The Roxy is operated via two buttons, which in turn can be configured via an app. Button 1 lights up in one of three colors, signaling that an assigned brewing profile or recipe has been selected. Button 2 cycles through the profiles.
Technology & Heat-up Time: Waiting is a Thing of the Past
Let's get to the inner values, where the Roxy really scores. It dispenses with classic boilers and relies on a thick film heater. The manufacturer promises brew readiness in under two minutes.
We measured it, of course. In our standardized KM protocol, the machine was heated through enough to pull a stable espresso after exactly 2 minutes and 50 seconds including the portafilter. We performed a complete flushing shot through the portafilter for this purpose. However, this is already included in the 2:50 time.
That is world-class and earns the Roxy the full score of 10.0 points for heat-up time. Anyone with little time in the morning will love this. And, of course, this fast heat-up time also has a direct impact on energy consumption and our power measurement.
Excursus: How the Roxy Controls Flow (Pulse Packet Control)
We need to clarify and shed more light on a technical detail, as it lies at the heart of the flow and pressure control within the Roxy. Inside, a classic vibration pump is at work.
Some manufacturers try to control these pumps via a kind of "dimming", which can cause the pump to stall at low pressure due to a lack of power. The Roxy takes a different path: It uses targeted stroke control (technically: wave packet control).
In this process, the pump is not weakened. Instead, the electronics specifically switch individual strokes of the pump on and off. Every stroke is therefore performed with full power, but the frequency of the strokes is reduced. You have to imagine it like walking: Instead of taking small, shuffling steps (dimmer), the Roxy takes big, powerful steps but pauses in between. This enables extremely precise and powerful low-flow profiles without stalling the pump.
Energy Efficiency: A Role Model
We have to pause here for a moment, because what the Roxy delivers in terms of power consumption is sensational. We measure the consumption for heating up and the first espresso shot (EE). The Roxy requires only 0.0278 kWh for this.
It thus effortlessly undercuts our strictest hurdle for the top grade of 0.05 kWh and secures a smooth 10 out of 10 points in our Energy Score. For comparison: It consumes only about half as much electricity for this process as an already frugal DeLonghi Dedica. The fact that the machine has no steam function naturally benefits the energy balance here – if you "only" want espresso, you are heating absolutely no unnecessary thermal mass.
Volumetrics: The Stress Test
A real highlight is the volumetrics – and we rarely say that about machines in this price class. Volumetrics is the precise dispensing of the desired amount of coffee. To understand why the Roxy cleans up with 9/10 points here, you have to know how conscientious our test protocol is.
How We Test: The 5-Stage Stress Test
We don't just test if the machine stops at some point. Our volumetrics test runs through five stages to check the "intelligence" of the automatic dosing:
- Hardware Basis: First, we measure with a Scace device (simulated resistance) to check the pure repeatability of the technology without the "coffee" factor.
- Reference Espresso: This is followed by shots under ideal conditions with the correct grind size.
- Profile Check: We check whether the volumetrics remain stable even with complex pressure profiles (e.g., with long pre-infusion).
- The Stress Test (Coarser & Finer): This separates the wheat from the chaff. We intentionally set the grinder significantly coarser (faster flow) and finer (slower flow).
The Roxy Thinks For Itself
The Roxy mastered this course brilliantly. It uses an algorithm that measures the flow and calculates the amount in the cup from it, instead of just stopping time. In the stress test, it recognized when the flow was faster or slower and ended the shot earlier or later accordingly. The result: Even without a scale, we achieved a solid accuracy of +/- 1.5 to 2 grams in the test. For a quick morning espresso, that is absolutely reliable.
Scale Mode for Perfectionists
If you want to take it to the extreme, pair a Bluetooth scale. Then the Roxy switches to a kind of "Override Mode": It deactivates its internal calculation and controls the shot exactly according to the feedback from the scale. In this setup, we landed at a precision of +/- 0.5 grams. That is high-end level and – together with the intuitive input of the target amount in the app – brings it almost the full score.
A quick note here: We have refined and revised our test protocol. To achieve full points, an accuracy of +/- 0.5 must be reached and a scale must be meaningfully integrated under or into the drip tray.
Workflow and Usability
We rate the usability with 8.0 points. Deductions are mainly due to the small drip tray and the dripping, but the control via app and buttons is intuitive and powerful.
In terms of usability, the Roxy shows its very own character. We award 8.0 points here because the control via app and buttons is solved excellently, but the hardware holds a few pitfalls in everyday life.
Minimalism Meets "Snake" Charm
There is no display on the device itself, only two buttons and an RGB LED. We find this extremely pleasant in everyday use: You don't have to pull out your phone every time to pull an espresso. Once set, you simply press the button for the stored profile (e.g., Yellow for Standard Profile).
The app itself is a case in point. Visually, with its pixel look, it reminds us of the classic "Snake" or old Windows times – there is no UX design award to be won here. But: It works. Stable, fast, and without unnecessary frills. We found the feedback system particularly helpful: After the shot, the app tells you if you should adjust the grind because the flow didn't match the profile. That is a real feature that helps beginners.
Hardware Pitfalls: Wiping and Fiddling
As good as the software is, you notice the extreme compactness of the hardware in some places.
- The Drip Tray: At 350 ml, it is very small. The real problem isn't the size, but the handling. There is no float to indicate when it is full. Also, it sits so snugly that you literally have to "fiddle" it out. If it is well filled, water is almost guaranteed to spill over when removing it – even if the honeycomb structure inside reduces the risk of splashing. The only help here: Empty regularly before it becomes critical.
- The "Drip Plate": We already mentioned it. One of the few areas where the designers did not follow the motto "Form follows Function." Instead of a permeable grid, the plate becomes a drip catcher after every shot and flush. A cloth next to the espresso machine is unavoidable to clean it after every shot.
Water Tank: Refill More Often
The glass water tank is a visual highlight and is easy to clean. But with a volume of 0.9 liters, it is at the lower limit for an espresso machine. If you – like us in the test – also use the rinse mode or brew filter coffee, you feel like you are constantly refilling. Okay for the single user, a compromise for the heavy drinker. On the other hand, you are guaranteed to brew with fresh water this way.
Verdict on Usability: The Roxy is fun if you get involved with it. The control is precise and "foolproof," the app powerful. The small hardware quirks (drip tray, wiping) cost it the rating in the 9-point range. Those who can live with that get a very direct and modern workflow.
Profiling & App: From "Beginner-Friendly" to "Nerd Mode"
Here it gets exciting, because the Roxy is actually a wolf in sheep's clothing. It has no display, but the app opens up a playground that we otherwise only know from machines like the Decent or Maro.
The Entry: Three Profiles for the Start
For everyone who just wants to drink coffee, the Roxy comes with three stored profiles that can be selected via the colored buttons (or colors in the app).
- Dark Roasts (Yellow): A profile with a fixed flow of 1.6 ml/s.
- Light Roasts (Pink): An adapted profile for fruitier coffees.
- Classic (9 Bar): A standard pressure profile that behaves like a normal vibration pump machine.
The genius of the first two profiles is the flow control. The machine doesn't struggle to build up 9 bar of pressure, but keeps the water flow constant. So if you ground too coarsely or tamped untidily, the water doesn't just "rush" through. The machine intervenes to regulate and saves the shot. This is a kind of built-in barista assistant that massively reduces frustration for beginners. The app even gives you feedback: If the pressure was too low, it tells you after the shot that you should grind finer.
Nerd Mode: "If-This-Then-That" for Espresso
If you want to dive deeper, you can go completely wild in the app. You can build profiles based on "If-Then" logic. An example: "When the pressure reaches 2 bar, switch to the next phase." You can run ramps, let the pressure drop slowly, or program "Turbo Shots." An unlimited number of profiles can be stored.
We experimented with our Hamesho from Ethiopia in the test and were able to control the balance of sweetness and acidity extremely precisely. The app itself reminds visually more of Snake on a Nokia 3310 than modern UX design, but it functions flawlessly and offers a depth that is absolutely unrivaled in this price class.
Only limitation in profiling: The Roxy technically limits the flow to a maximum of 5 milliliters per second. For 99% of all espressos, this is completely sufficient. But anyone wanting to brew extremely fast turbo shots or large amounts of filter coffee runs into a limit here. Our filter coffee test with David showed: For 200 ml it is okay, for more the flow becomes too slow.
Espresso Quality & Temperature
But the most important thing is: How does it taste? Yes, and how! In the espresso potential area, the Roxy achieves an outstanding 8.7 points. The shots were sensorially very balanced, sweet, and dense. But good taste is no coincidence, it is the result of technical precision. That's why we look closely at the temperature curves – because this is where the wheat is separated from the chaff.
We rate the temperature performance with a very strong 8.0 out of 10 points. To categorize this grade, it is worth looking at our three-part temperature protocol:
1. The "First Shot" (Everyday Suitability)
The big challenge for fast-heating machines is the first shot. Is the system really stable yet? We measured: The first shot on the Roxy started at an average of 93.44°C, while the machine later settled at about 92.5°C. So we have a minimal "overshoot" of 0.95°C here. Since this deviation is under one degree, it is a very good value that brings hardly any sensory disadvantages. For a machine that is ready to go in under three minutes, this is impressive.
Important: whoever wants to use the Roxy after 2:30 must perform a flushing shot through the portafilter to heat it up completely.
2. Intra-Shot Stability (The Curve)
What happens during the shot? Here the Roxy loses points for absolute perfection. Our measurement shows a slight "Rise": The temperature climbs by a good 1 degree during extraction (Start ~91.8°C to End ~92.8°C). Ideal would be a flat line ("Flatline"). We would also rate a slightly falling curve positively. Such a rise is not a disaster, but slightly changes the extraction dynamics. That cost it the top grade in our strict B-Cluster (Intra-Shot Stability).
3. WBC Performance (The Stress Test)
Here the little Roxy flexes muscles like a big one. We chased it through our protocol based on the World Barista Championship: 14 shots in short succession. The result is astounding: Under this continuous load, the machine remains in a temperature window of under 1°C (Difference Min/Max: 0.94°C). It shows absolutely no fatigue. Whether you make one or twenty espressos – the Roxy delivers consistently like a professional machine.
The Elephant in the Room: No Steam = 0 Points
Let's come to the point that will divide opinions: The Roxy cannot foam milk. At all. There is no steam wand and no steam boiler. Consequently, there are 0.0 points for steam quality here. Anyone who loves their cappuccino must place an external foamer like the NanoFoamer next to it or reach for another machine.
Such foamers are becoming more common and of better quality. Anyone who has espresso preparation and foaming combined in one machine will not be happy with the Roxy Espresso.
For Michel from our team, this is a criterion for exclusion, as he likes to serve guests with latte art. I personally find the concept consistent. It is a pure espresso machine. If I don't need milk foam, why should I pay for and heat up technology for it?
The Roxy Espresso integrates flow and pressure profiling built in Germany into a price of 2300 Euros only because it concentrates so consistently on being an espresso machine. That is its mastery and in this, it is extremely good.
Accessories: Light and Shadow (6.0 Points)
With accessories, the Roxy doesn't make it easy for us. We rate this point with 6.0 out of 10 points – a grade that shows: There is room for improvement, especially measured against the price of 2,300 Euros.
The Bright Spot: The Tamper
We must highlight the included tamper positively. Many manufacturers save money here and only include plastic toys. Not so with Roxy: You get a massive tamper with a diameter of 58.5 mm. This is crucial because this "oversize" ensures that it seals the basket truly flush to the edge and hardly any coffee grounds remain on the side walls. It feels good in the hand and fits perfectly with the high-quality claim of the machine.
The Shadow: The Baskets
Regarding the centerpiece, the baskets, we were somewhat disappointed. The Roxy comes with standard baskets that are "okay" but do not exhaust the full potential of the machine. Michel hit the nail on the head in the video: For a machine that can work so precisely, we would have wished for precision baskets ex-works (e.g., from IMS or VST) that are cylindrical and perfectly perforated.
Here the manufacturer saved in a place that is definitely relevant for taste. Our tip: Use the high-quality 58mm portafilter, but treat yourself to an upgrade to a precision basket for a few Euros. The machine will thank you for it.
Filter Brewer
Included in the delivery is a small V60 filter as well as a corresponding suspension. For me, this seems out of place and breaks with the clear concept of the espresso brewer. If I want to make filter coffee, I brew it by hand, in the appropriate amount. Nevertheless, it is worth mentioning positively: Included with the Roxy, you also have a way to make filter coffee, and in smaller quantities, the Roxy does that well too.
Conclusion: 72 Points for a Specialist
The Roxy Espresso is, with a total score of 72.0 points ("Very Good"), one of the most exciting machines we have had on the counter recently. It is a specialist, not an all-rounder.
Who is it for? It is perfect for the pure espresso drinker who has little space but seeks maximum control and nerd features like profiling. It is ideal for everyone who wants to save energy and is ready to use a separate solution for milk foam.
Who is it not for? If you primarily make cappuccino for the whole family in the morning, you won't be happy with the missing steam. Also, anyone wanting to brew large amounts of filter coffee will find better solutions – namely filter coffee machines.
With its small drip tray and without a steam wand, the Roxy Espresso is also not made for catering or high-volume operations. However, the temperature consistency of the machine would fully meet the demands of volume operation!
Priced at 2,300 Euros/CHF, it lies in a range that is absolutely fair for the offered manufacturing quality and innovative technology (Value for Money: 5.1 points). It is quiet (8.0 points), extremely temperature stable, and delivers results on a world-class level.
A total score of 72/100 points (Test Protocol 2.3) is still very good, and it is even more impressive when you visualize that it is achieved without points for steaming performance or catering potential.
If you can live with the fact that the Roxy "only" does espresso, then it does it damn well!
