PHILIPS 5500 Series Bean to Cup Coffee Machine – 20 Hot & Iced Drinks, LatteGo Milk Frother, Ceramic Grinder, Fully Automatic Espresso & Cappuccino Maker – EP5546/70
Pros
- 20 hot and iced drink options from one machine
- LatteGo frother is dishwasher safe and quick to clean
- Ceramic grinder is 40% quieter than previous Philips models
Cons
- Significant investment versus pod-based machines
Specifications
- Brand
- Philips
- Price tier
- Premium
- Best For
- Bean-to-cup espresso
How it compares in Coffee & Tea Equipment
We list 36 coffee & tea equipment products, priced from £5.25 to £669.99. At £669.99 this one is the 36th cheapest of them. The average across the subcategory is £101.82 and the midpoint is £46.55, so it lands £568.17 above the average.
Its 4.2-star score sits 0.25 below the coffee & tea equipment average of 4.45, with 30 of the 36 rated higher. Its 907 Amazon reviews make it the 27th most-reviewed here, against a subcategory average of 4,001.
Price position in Coffee & Tea Equipment
Splitting the subcategory into three price bands puts this product in the Premium band (£88.99–£649.99), which holds 10 of 34 products and averages £268.93 at 4.44 stars.
| Band | Range | Products | Average price | Average rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Budget | £16.99–£34.90 | 12 | £25.74 | 4.53 |
| Mid-range | £34.95–£79.99 | 12 | £53.48 | 4.50 |
| PremiumThis one | £88.99–£649.99 | 10 | £268.93 | 4.44 |
About this product
The Philips 5500 Series bean-to-cup coffee machine offers a premium experience for those seeking barista-quality coffee at home. This fully automatic espresso maker delivers twenty different hot and iced coffee recipes, from classic espressos and cappuccinos to more sophisticated options like latte macchiatos and Americanos. It’s designed for individuals or families who appreciate the control and flavour of freshly brewed coffee made directly from beans.
At its heart is the LatteGo milk system, allowing you to create silky smooth milk froth with the touch of a button – compatible with both dairy and plant-based milk alternatives. The machine incorporates SilentBrew technology, reducing noise levels by 40% compared to earlier Philips models, ensuring a quieter brewing experience. A ceramic grinder delivers consistent results and operates at a lower volume.
Practical considerations include a generous 1.8 litre water tank and a robust 1500-watt power rating. The machine measures 43.3D x 24.6W x 37.1H centimetres and weighs 8 kilograms. Cleaning is simplified with the quick-to-clean LatteGo milk system, which can be disassembled and cleaned in under 10 seconds.
This Philips EP5546/70 model includes a milk frother and comes from Romania, manufactured in 2023. It’s a significant investment compared to pod-based machines but provides unparalleled control over your coffee brewing process.
Related attributes
FAQ
What kind of coffee drinks can I make with this Philips machine?
This fully automatic espresso machine offers a wide variety of hot and iced coffee options, including classics like Cappuccino and Latte macchiato, as well as specialty brews such as Ristretto and Americano. You have access to twenty different recipes allowing you to create your favourite café drinks at home.
How big is the Philips 5500 Bean to Cup machine?
The dimensions of this coffee maker are 43.3 centimetres in depth, 24.6 centimetres wide and 37.1 centimetres high. It's a relatively compact unit designed for use on a kitchen countertop, although its capacity suggests it will require some space.
What materials is the machine made from?
The Philips EP5546/70 features a robust construction with stainless steel components and a ceramic grinder. The milk frother system incorporates durable plastics suitable for regular use, providing long-lasting performance.
How easy is it to clean the LatteGo milk system?
The LatteGo milk system is designed for effortless maintenance with a quick-clean capability. The system consists of just two parts and can be cleaned in under ten seconds, simplifying your post-use routine.
Is this machine suitable for making espresso regularly?
This Philips machine is specifically designed for creating high-quality espresso drinks. It’s a fully automatic system capable of delivering a rich, concentrated coffee experience with each brew, ideal for those who appreciate a strong flavour profile.
How does the noise level compare to other bean-to-cup machines?
The machine incorporates SilentBrew technology which significantly reduces the operational sound. This advanced feature makes the brewing process quieter than previous models, offering a more pleasant user experience.
What’s the power consumption of this coffee maker?
The Philips 5500 Series operates on a 1500-watt AC adapter, indicating its energy requirements. This makes it suitable for standard UK electrical outlets and allows for relatively quick heating times.
What’s the capacity of the water tank?
The integrated water reservoir has a capacity of 1.8 litres, allowing you to brew multiple drinks before needing to refill. This substantial volume is suitable for families or individuals who frequently enjoy coffee throughout the day.
How does this compare to other machines in a similar price range?
This Philips machine offers advanced features such as the LatteGo milk system and ceramic grinder, placing it amongst premium automatic coffee makers. It competes with similarly priced models by providing a fully automated experience with options for both espresso and milk-based drinks.
Are there any specific maintenance requirements?
Regular cleaning of the filter basket and grinder is recommended to maintain optimal performance. Descaling periodically will also ensure continued operation, following Philips’ guidelines for best results.
£669.99
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