The Zuriga E2 has been further developed. Anyone who buys a Zuriga E2 today is buying the second generation . This applies to both the Zuriga E2-S with steam and the version without steam wand. We have tested both the older Zuriga model and subjected the new generation to a thorough examination.
The first generation was already good! But the second generation sets new standards in many categories. It heats up in just two minutes and then maintains a remarkably consistent temperature. This is thanks to advanced heating technology that only works if it's well-engineered. The Zurich-based company has mastered this with this Swiss-built machine. The Zuriga E2 Generation 2 with thick-film heater is currently the best espresso machine of its kind! We're talking about the model that replaced its predecessor in mid-September 2024.
You can find out exactly what makes the Zuriga E2 Generation 2 stand out in this review and the following video. You can find our impressions of the previous version at the very bottom of this page. We've created a separate review page for the Zuriga grinder. However, the review of the new grinder with Grind by Weight is still to come.
For the Zuriga E2-S generation we offer:
- this test article
- a long video (46:40 minutes)
- a short video (6:32 minutes)
- an English video (21:58 minutes)
There's also a video of the first generation. You can find it on our YouTube channel .
Zuriga Generation 2 – an espresso machine milestone
And then came the second generation Zuriga E2, and it arrived quietly and almost secretly. To be honest, I'm not sure yet whether Zuriga itself has fully realized what it's actually presented, or whether that's just brutal understatement . Other manufacturers announce a new color as groundbreaking and invent new model names to make the most of even the smallest changes for marketing purposes. The Zurich-based espresso machine company is taking a different approach. The Zuriga E2 simply becomes Generation 2. Packed with advanced technology, the machine replaces the previous model. Anyone who buys a Zuriga today is buying Generation 2, whether with or without a steam wand. This is possible because they work to order and don't have to sell off a full inventory.
But now, let's get specific: what's inside this espresso machine, and what's no longer inside. The mini-boiler has been replaced with a thick-film heater. The thick-film heater consists of heating elements pressed onto a metal plate. This design enables very fast and efficient energy transfer from the heating element to the brewing water. Only the brewing water, which the machine also needs to prepare the espresso, is heated. While a boiler must first be brought up to temperature, a thick-film heater is ready for use in seconds.
On the left the Zuriga E2-S and on the right a thick film heater from Ferro .
Such thick-film heaters are now available in several machines. The big challenge, however, is regulating them effectively. Because something that heats up quickly also quickly misses its target. To ensure precise control, the Zuriga measures the temperature many times during brewing and adjusts accordingly. The thick-film heater, which is responsible for the steam and brewing water, operates at up to 1400 watts.
A second innovation, a second thick-film heater, is located in the brewing group . This is also clever and solves a challenge faced by espresso machines that need to be ready for use quickly. It's all well and good if the heat source and water reach operating temperature quickly, but they only work with precision when the brewing group and portafilter are also at temperature. The thick-film heater (600 watts) in the group makes exactly that possible.
We tested the Zuriga E2 to its limits. We attested to a heat-up time of 2 minutes. Those in a hurry can speed up the heat-up time even further by rinsing the portafilter for longer. The subsequent temperature performance deserves a separate chapter in this review. However, a word about energy consumption is also important. In our power log, we measured a usage of 0.058 kWh for five double shots. This puts the Zuriga E2-S at the top of the list, making it the most economical espresso machine among high-quality espresso machines.
You can see our enthusiasm. We've been promoting the thick-film heater and its potential for many years now. And in the Zuriga E2 generation, we now find much of what we've long desired. For us, the machine is a flagship in its type and price range, demonstrating the possibilities in terms of energy efficiency, temperature consistency, and heat-up speed.
And if the company itself is sparing with superlatives, then we'll make up for it: this machine is almost unbeatable, impresses with its overall performance, and is now a benchmark for what innovation, craftsmanship, and coffee expertise can achieve.
At this point, we should briefly note: We have no ties to Zuriga, purchased the espresso machine, and report independently and impartially as always. But if something is exceptionally good, then it should be called that.
Zuriga E2-S Generation 1
Zuriga - the Swiss espresso machine
Zuriga launched its success story through crowdfunding on wemakeit in 2016. 271 backers donated CHF 57,075 to finance the idea of a Swiss espresso machine, reduced to the essentials and manufactured in Switzerland by Swiss SMEs. "Small, fast, affordable, powerful, and above all, easy to use" – that was Zuriga's motto back then.
Zuriga has actually achieved much of this, even though the price of the Zuriga E2 is currently CHF 1,480 for the non-steam version, exceeding the CHF 1,000 target price set in 2016. However, considering the machine's performance, its value and market positioning, as well as its Zurich-based production with predominantly Swiss-made components, it's impressively affordable. This price makes the machine very competitive not only compared to less powerful machines from abroad, but also compared to other Swiss espresso machines—and there are quite a few of them now.
Indeed, we are slowly evolving from a specialist in the manufacture of fully automatic coffee machines (Jura, Thermoplan, Schaerer, Franke, and others) to a portafilter and semi-automatic specialist. Olympia Express is a pioneer and has been manufacturing espresso machines in Glarus since 1928. We've already reviewed the Olympia Express Maxcimatic . The Cremina costs CHF 3,680, and the Maximatic costs a hefty CHF 3,980.
The Gilda coffee machine is also manufactured in Switzerland, and according to the manufacturer, 90% of its components come from Switzerland. The Gilda costs CHF 3,995.
For the sake of completeness, the Unica and the Leva machines from Manument should also be mentioned. Both are innovative and operate in a completely different price range. The Unica will be priced at CHF 7,499, while a pre-order for the Leva will cost CHF 18,000.
The CHF 1,480 for the Zuriga E2 should also be read in this context. Incidentally, I would also prefer the Zuriga to four of the other five machines in terms of power and performance – but I'd rather save CHF 6,000.
The Zuriga E2 and E2-S models
The original Zuriga model has evolved over the years. Today we're discussing the Zuriga E2-S. This is the newest model, the one with a frothing function. The basic Zuriga version, the Zuriga E2, lacked the ability to froth milk and thus make cappuccinos for many years.
The E2-S differs from the E2 in the dual function of the large thick-film heater. While the previous model had a boiler responsible for frothing the milk, in the new model everything is controlled by the thick-film heater. As soon as the steam wand is swung forward, the machine switches to pre-frothing mode and reaches the boiling point. The espresso button becomes the steam button, and frothing begins at the touch of a button. The machine first expels any residual water from the steam wand and then reaches the target steam temperature. We foamed a 600 ml carafe in 45 to 50 seconds. The rolling phase was sufficient at all times. The temperature rise was slow.
The 17cm wide, 23cm deep, and 31cm high chrome steel housing is otherwise identical on the E2 and E2-S models. Both also use the same vibration pump.
We still have to measure the weight of the E2-S. According to the manufacturer, it's 9.5 kg. However, thanks to suction cups under the feet, the machine sits securely on the work surface.
The E2-S comes with a 0.35ml milk jug, a flush-fitting 58mm tamper, a portafilter with a walnut handle, a black cleaning cloth, a blind sieve for cleaning, and a 1-cup and 2-cup espresso sieve.
Medium volume and low power
A lot has changed in terms of noise levels on the market. There are now espresso machines that are truly quiet. Peak values were only 53 decibels. The Zuriga E2 currently reaches 64 decibels. It's not as quiet as it looks. Given such a petite little machine, you might expect it to be very quiet. Here, we see the machine in the middle range.
The machine has taken another step forward in energy consumption. Its predecessor already performed very well in this area. The new Generation 2 model improves even further, achieving a peak consumption of 0.058 kWh for 5 double shots of espresso, including the warm-up time, in our power log . That's phenomenal, and it's hard to imagine a significantly lower consumption.
By comparison, traditional dual-circuit boilers typically require 0.25 kWh and up, while dual-boiler models, where the steam boiler cannot be switched off, quickly reach 0.35 kWh and more for five double brews. This is primarily due to the laborious and slow heating of large amounts of water and inert materials. This is where the Zuriga E2's rapid heat-up time comes in handy.
2 minutes heat-up time!
We already mentioned it in the introduction, but the heat-up time deserves its own chapter. Two minutes is simply incredibly fast. Those accustomed to a capsule machine or fully automatic coffee machine might say: that's nothing special. In the world of espresso machines, however, heat-up times of over 25 minutes have been standard for the past few decades. Some manufacturers broke the 20-minute barrier five years ago. And few today achieve under 10 minutes. However, with high-quality and precise espresso machines, we can count the rapid heat-ups under five minutes on one hand.
The Zuriga E2 handles this with flying colors thanks to its thick-film heater. And after two minutes, it's not just roughly at operating temperature, but right on time.
Temperature constancy as a core competence
When evaluating temperature consistency, we examine typical espresso machine usage scenarios and base our assessment on best practice values that we have verified in test series. To determine the heat-up time, we examine when a machine is capable of reaching an average brewing temperature of 92 degrees Celsius (measured from the 5th to the 25th second of extraction).
Our target and test temperature is generally 93 degrees Celsius. Whenever possible, we set machines to 93 degrees Celsius and test the deviation from this temperature. 93 degrees Celsius is a very good brewing temperature that produces good flavor results for the widest range of coffees.
Zuriga also aims for a brewing temperature of 93 degrees Celsius. The machine's temperature cannot be adjusted.
KM temperature protocol
To test the temperature, we rinse hot water through the portafilter after 2 minutes and then draw the brewing water for 5 double extractions at one-minute intervals (KM protocol).
In the first extraction, we achieved an average temperature of 93.07 degrees Celsius . Over five extractions, the mean temperature was 92.85 degrees Celsius. The standard deviation across all extractions was 0.93 degrees Celsius. These are very good and precise values. They are the best values we have measured for an espresso machine with a vibration pump in our current test protocol.
The KM protocol simulates usage behavior that mimics typical home use. It also checks whether the machine would be suitable for serving additional guests or family members with espresso. This is the case from the first brew, although brews 2 through 5 are even more precise.
WBC temperature protocol
In the second step, we subjected the machine to the temperature protocol of the World Barista Championship . This involves measuring 14 shots at increasingly faster frequencies. The Zuriga E2 also delivered well in this test scenario. The standard deviation was 1.15 degrees. The WBC protocol is used to measure from the fourth second of the shot. Because the Zuriga is equipped with a vibration pump that delivers less water at the beginning of the shot, the machine needs around 9 seconds to reach full power and temperature. All vibration pumps have this in common. This is why measurements using the WBC protocol are only of limited use when compared to espresso machines with rotary pumps. However, if we use the time when the pump and machine are at full power as a benchmark - for example, 8 seconds - we arrive at a standard deviation between all shots of just 0.41 degrees. This would even make the Zuriga WBC-compliant . That's really impressive!
Quick note: I really like the gradual increase in pressure. Unlike with a rotary pump, the full pressure of the water isn't immediately applied to the coffee cake. For entry-level espresso machines, I often consider vibratory pumps a better choice.
The Zuriga is smart and functional
Two buttons and a milk spout are all the Zuriga needs to receive commands. Admittedly, the range of functions is also limited. Espresso is brewed using the start and stop button – there's no volumetric control or programmable time for brewing. There's also no digital display or water volume control.
To brew good espresso, you need an espresso scale . This not only shows the amount of coffee drawn, but also the brewing time. This makes espresso recipes easy to create. For example, we dosed 18 grams of coffee into the portafilter and brewed two 22.5-gram shots in 25 seconds. We've written more about preparing and adjusting good espresso here.
The steam start and stop function is similarly simple and even smarter. The steam wand is moved forward, and at this moment the steam module's heating process begins. The two LED button edges now light up orange instead of white. The machine is ready to froth when they change from flashing to solid yellow.
Exterior details
The small machine naturally also affects the drip tray and water tank. While the 700 ml water tank is sufficient for a while, and fresh water is a good idea anyway, the drip tray can fill up annoyingly quickly. This happens especially when rinsing between uses to warm up the portafilter and clean the shower. Emptying it daily should be part of your routine, otherwise trips to the sink become an odyssey.
The water tank, made of laboratory glass, is not only extremely robust but also truly beautiful. It would also make a great flower vase. However, removing it and replacing it in the espresso machine isn't quite as easy, as there's no handle. But that's just criticism at a high level.
The machine's stability is a positive feature. At 9.5 kg, it's not so heavy that it would stand upright on its own. Many lighter espresso machines shift, especially when clamping and unclamping. However, the Zuriga stands solidly, even without any resistance. We can report that the feet are good.
The lid above the water tank, which, like the tamper and portafilter handles, is made of walnut, is also valuable and beautiful.
Conclusion and summary Zuriga E2-S
The Zuriga does a lot of things right, and not just because it delivers good espresso and, in the E2-S version, even steamed milk. Above all, it's a modern espresso machine that breaks with existing concepts. Instead of a large boiler, it heats exactly what you need. The company demonstrates what the thick-film heater can do: precision, speed, and low energy consumption. Combined with excellent control and measurement technology, this results in nothing more and nothing less than the best espresso machine in the sub-€2,000 price range.
As if that weren't enough, the machine is built in Switzerland and relies primarily on components manufactured in Switzerland by SMEs. The company is approachable and has progressive standards in terms of sustainability, transparency, and proximity to customers.
The quality of the Zuriga is clearly evident both externally and internally. Despite the expensive production location, the company manages to create a product that is affordable, not only by Swiss standards, but also competitively priced compared to imported products.
The Zuriga E2 is an espresso machine that we can recommend without reservation. We can imagine using it in a variety of scenarios. It fits neatly in the living room or kitchen at home. It also performs well in the office or even while traveling. The new grinder with Grind by Weight technology also performs well, but we'll discuss it in a separate review and video.
Of course, the small water tank and drip tray become problematic in an office or with frequent use. But these are issues that can be addressed if the espresso quality is good.
There's little room for criticism. We do have something on our wish list, though: a volumetric system, i.e., a programming of the dispensed quantity, would significantly improve the Zuriga. But perhaps Zuriga has decided that other manufacturers also need to make a case for their machines, even if the new generation can no longer be beaten in terms of temperature consistency, power consumption, and heat-up time.
Appendix and archive
The operating principle of the first generation E2 and E2-S
The E2-S differs from the E2 in that it features a second heating element for steam production and a forward-pivoting milk lance. The 17 cm wide, 23 cm deep, and 31 cm high chrome steel housing is otherwise identical, as are the 700 ml water tank and the 70 ml titanium-coated aluminum main boiler. Due to the additional components, the E2-S weighs approximately 500 grams heavier, bringing it to 9.5 kg.
Note: This machine is no longer being manufactured in this form. However, we have included this information as an appendix to this article for anyone who purchased a Zuriga before mid-September 2024 or who is buying an older model used.
The operating principle of the classic Zuriga E2 is that of a single-circuit espresso machine, reminiscent of the Gaggia Classic. The boiler does nothing more than maintain a target temperature of 93 degrees Celsius. However, the Zuriga E2 model doesn't make the single-circuit compromise and offers a milk frothing switch, but instead completely forgoes it (similar to the Quickmill Carola). The compromise with single-circuit machines usually means that the brewing temperature is not constant, and the frothing ability leaves something to be desired anyway.
Instead, the E2 doesn't produce milk foam. The E2-S introduces a second heating element. This "steam module" is activated when the steam wand is moved forward. The water in the boiler then feeds the steam module, which delivers enough steam to create a clean foam.
Here, the Zuriga E2-S functions more like a dual boiler, but without the ability to simultaneously froth and extract espresso. The major advantage of this system is that the brewing boiler remains at brewing temperature and is unaffected by the frothing process. Therefore, the next espresso can be drawn immediately after frothing.
Only after further extractions did the brewing temperature settle at around 91°C. In our opinion, this temperature is too low for many espressos , especially considering that the temperature drops by up to two degrees during the extraction process. We also observed this result when we heated the Zuriga for a longer time.
The lower setting temperature can be explained by the fact that Zuriga measures the temperature with a probe underneath the boiler, which controls the temperature inside the boiler. We take our measurements directly above the coffee bed using the Scace measurement module. This location also corresponds to the measurement location we used in our study to determine the perfect espresso temperature.
In summary, the Zuriga can't keep up with any of the dual-boiler espresso machines we tested in terms of temperature consistency during a brew. However, it performed well in the five-brew test in terms of temperature drop from brew to brew. If we give the machine a minute between brews, as defined in our test protocol and also applied to the dual-boiler machines, it follows exactly the same curve again. Many dual-boiler machines lost significant temperature during this process, starting with a 3-degree drop in temperature by the fifth brew in the series.
Notes by Zuriga, March 2023
This week, we've been shipping our ZURIGA E2 and E2-S with slightly adjusted control parameters. Inspired by your measurements, @Kaffeemacher, we also took further measurements in our development lab. Based on these, we adjusted the control parameters of the electronic control. The result is an even more precise and slightly higher temperature in the brewing group. We then invited our neighbors from Vicafé and conducted a direct comparison with them using different roasts. The adjustments are noticeable in individual varieties and roasts – however, this requires a trained sensory expert and a direct comparison of two different machines.
We appreciate the feedback from you @coffeemakers. It has sparked a small but significant development. And for that, we are grateful!
P.S.: We also incorporate these changes into all existing devices that are in our factory for service and repairs. If you'd like a temperature adjustment, it's best to book a workshop service.
Do you have any experience with the Zuriga?
We'd love to hear your experiences with the Zuriga, so we can supplement or correct our review. This will be very helpful to anyone interested in the machine. We'd be delighted if you'd let us know in the comments. Thank you.
