Quick Mill Silvano Evo Review (Tested For 30 Days)
If you're into milk-based drinks, you need an espresso machine that can brew and steam at the same time.
However, this type of home espresso machine usually comes with a hefty price tag.
The Quick Mill Silvano Evo brings this dual-functionality to your countertop without breaking the bank.
The question is: how does it perform? I tested it out for a month and have all the info below.
Quick Mill Silvano Evo Review – My Ratings & Top Features
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Things I Like
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Things I Don’t Like
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Why Should You Buy The Quick Mill Silvano Evo?
Overall, the Silvano Evo is a 4.6 out of 5 for its capacity to brew and steam simultaneously, as well as its customization features.:
- PID controller
- Shot timer
- Thermoblock steam
- Stainless steel exterior
Who Should Buy The Quick Mill Silvano Evo?
The Quick Mill Silvano Evo is ideal for espresso enthusiasts who value precision and control in their brewing process.
It's a great choice if you frequently make espresso-based drinks and want the ability to brew and steam milk simultaneously.
This machine suits home baristas who appreciate the balance between manual operation and advanced features like a built-in PID for temperature control.
Why I Decided To Review The Quick Mill Silvano Evo Espresso Machine
Since I've tried a dual boiler espresso machine, my life has changed. Unfortunately, most machines with two boilers are expensive, and I wasn't ready to shed the cash.
Until I found the Silvano Evo. Although technically a single boiler machine, it can simultaneously brew and steam since it uses a Thermoblock steam. Moreover, it's very affordable, even with its professional features.
I set out to determine if its performance compares to other espresso machines with the same features.
Testing Conditions
Days Tested |
30 |
Cups Brewed Per Day |
6 |
Level Of Experience Needed |
Beginner to Intermediate |
Reviewer Background |
Home brewing hobbyist who started with a basic drip coffee machine and gradually upgraded to espresso machines. My current machine is a Breville Barista Pro. |
Environment Tested |
Home |
Money Saved Per Year |
Approximately $450 in the first year and approximately $1450 in the following years once the machine is paid for. |
Favorite Drink To Brew |
Latte and cappuccino |
What’s It Like To Live With The Silvano Evo
What's In The Box?
The first thing I gauge when I review an espresso machine is its unboxing experience.
It gives me a clue about how the manufacturer values its product. So when I cracked open Silvano Evo's box, I wasn't disappointed.
A pretty secure box and accessories are lined properly--things you'd expect when buying a kitchen appliance online.
Apart from this home espresso machine, you'll also get:
- 1 double spout portafilter (58mm)
- 1 single and double baskets
- 1 backflush disk
- 1 group cleaning brush
- 1 plastic coffee scoop
- 1 black plastic tamper
- Two-year warranty
There are no fancy accessories or anything like that; it's just packed with essentials that can get you started with your espresso brewing journey.
Barista HQ Note:
If you can invest in a bottomless portafilter, get one. It's a good beginner barista device that will allow you to see the extraction process. This way, you'll be able to see when the crema develops, which will help you pull consistent shots.
Pulling My First Espresso Shot
Grinding Your Beans
Let's get one thing straight. The Silvano Evo doesn't come with a built-in grinder.
While this is a drawback, you can choose whichever grinder you want. However, this also means an additional expense for you.
If you're ready to shed some cash or already have one in your kitchen, this semi-automatic machine will still be an excellent choice.
For those who can't, you may want to look at something like Breville Touch or a super-automatic machine like Miele CM5300.
PID Features
Experienced home baristas know the machine should be warmed up before you start the pulling process.
In most espresso machines, this requires some guesswork. Thankfully, this isn't the case with the Silvano Evo.
It has a PID (proportional integral derivative control) display showing the exact temperature. It's set to 200ºF right out of the box, but you can fiddle with it to see how it affects your brew.
On top of that, this espresso machine also has a 52-watt brew boiler or pump output capacity. This brewing boiler is pretty strong for the price of this brewer.
If you don't mind the noise, the machine is practically heaven-sent. First, the PID controller (found in the upper left-hand corner) that's technically for the water temperature doubles as a shot timer. Once you flip the brew switch, it begins the countdown automatically. Pretty cool, right?
It also has a pump pressure gauge to easily monitor the extraction pressure. That's handy when playing around with different beans and grind sizes.
Shot Pulling
The first shot I pulled smells like victory, but the proof is in the tasting. This espresso does not disappoint. It's got depth, it's got character, and it's crowned with a perfect crema. Silvano knows what they're doing.
There's also an adjustable expansion valve, a cool feature in case you want to mess with the pump pressure.
It also has a three-way solenoid valve, which I know sounds super technical. Basically, this thing depressurizes and dries out your coffee puck after pulling shots.
This means you don't need to worry about ultra-hot coffee grounds splattering every time.
Barista HQ Note:
The Silvano Quick Mill has two vibratory pumps. I've already mentioned the brew pump, but it also has a 16-watt steam boiler dedicated to the steamer.
First Time Frothing Milk
Using the Quick Mill Silvano for frothing is easy, thanks to its separate steam pump and Thermoblock system.
You can brew and steam at the same time, so milk-based drinks are quick to make.
Start with cold milk for that creamy, velvety foam. Angle the steam wand just below the milk's surface, turn the knob, and you're off! While it takes around 75 seconds to froth 8 ounces, the dry steam it creates is perfect for microfoam, ideal for cappuccinos and latte art.
The best part? You can skip the steam function if you don’t need it, saving energy!
How Much Control Do You Have Over The Brewing Process?
The Quick Mill Silvano gives you a good deal of control over the brewing process with some automation, making it an excellent entry-level machine.
Your control begins with the choice of coffee beans, grind size, dose, and, of course, the grinder. As with all espresso machines, getting the ground right is essential.[1]
Of course, there's the PID temperature control, pressure gauge, shot timer, a single boiler dedicated only to brewing, and a steam bank for milk. They all allow you to have control over how you brew espresso.
Lastly, as a semi-automatic machine, you can start and stop the flow of water through the coffee manually. This gives you complete control over the volume of water and hence the strength and taste of your espresso.
Related Article - Best Espresso Machines Under $2000
How Does It Handle Different Roasts?
Due to its customizable controls, the Silvano Evo is highly adaptable to different coffee roasts. In other words, no matter what type of roast you use, this machine can make great espresso.
However, it doesn't automatically adjust its settings. You need to manually customize its settings to adapt to the kind of beans you're using.
This may take a little time to get used to, especially if you're a new home barista. Just remember to play around to find what works for your coffee.
Look, Feel, and Size Of The Machine
The Quick Mill Silvano Evo is a stunner. I really dig the look of this machine. The stainless steel exterior gives off this sleek, professional vibe. It screams "serious espresso maker," which is always a good sign.
In terms of size, it's a solid piece of kit but not monstrously large. It's about 16 inches tall, 10.5 inches wide, and 13.5 inches deep.
In kitchen terms, think somewhere between a toaster and a microwave--still has a compact design and can easily fit any counter space.
When it comes to feel, the Quick Mill Silvano Evo is rock solid. You can tell that it's built to last. The quality stainless steel construction is top-notch – all the knobs and levers feel sturdy and reliable, with nothing loose or flimsy.
Barista HQ Note:
Check the height clearance if you have overhead cabinets. You need some extra space to fill the water reservoir from the top. The good news is it has an easily removable reservoir, so if space is tight, you can always fill it up at the sink and slot it back in.
What Drinks Can It Make?
With the Quick Mill Silvano Evo, you've got a world of espresso drinks at your fingertips--you can literally make anything as long as you can brew coffee and steam milk!
Once you get the hang of this machine, you'll be churning out your favorite drinks like a seasoned barista--not just any drinks, but ones tailored to your tastes or to impress your guests when they come for a java.
I'm talking cappuccinos, lattes, macchiatos, mochas--you name it, Silvano's got you covered.
It doesn't have a hot water spigot, so if you like Americano, you may need to boil your hot water using different equipment.
How Easy Is It To Use?
The Silvano Evo is relatively straightforward and user-friendly. Of course, as with any espresso machine, there's a bit of a learning curve, but don't let that intimidate you.
For starters, the machine sports a simple, intuitive control layout. User-friendliness, check. Three position power switches, one each for power, brewing, and steaming, and a PID controller make the operation easy.
Let's not forget that helpful pressure gauge on the front. The light indicators turn up when active, giving you a clear visual cue of what's happening.
Brewing espresso? Flip the middle switch, and the heating element is ready to brew. Frothing milk? Turn the steam knob, and the steam bank heats up. All you have to check is the indicator light to find which boiler is turned on.
My favorite part is the Klixon thermal fuse. This prevents the machine from overheating, which is one of the common problems of espresso brewers.
How Long Does It Take? (From Heat Up To First Sip)
The Silvano Evo is relatively quick to heat up. With a separate coffee boiler and steam bank, we're taking roughly 2 minutes to prepare the machine for brewing.
Once heated, you'll spend another minute or two grinding those beans and doing the tamping dance. The exact time can vary depending on how quickly you move and what type of grinder you're working with.
Now, the actual brewing part. You're looking at 25 to 30 seconds to pull a mean double shot. If you're jazzing up a cappuccino or latte with some frothy milk, that'll tack on an extra 75 seconds, give or take.
So, if we combine all these steps, you're looking at 5 to 6 minutes from hitting the power button to that first satisfying sip.
Naturally, this can change depending on how quick you are at prepping the coffee, how much milk you're frothing, and your personal brewing time preference.
Does It Have A Water Filtration System?
The Quick Mill Silvano Evo doesn't have a built-in water filtration system.
However, that doesn't mean you should dismiss the importance of using top-notch, filtered water in your espresso machine. After all, great espresso and the lifespan of your machine rely on it.
Using filtered or distilled water reduces the odds of scale buildup inside the machine. Left unchecked, this buildup can interfere with performance and eventually lead to some pretty hefty repair bills.[2]
How Hard Is It To Clean and Descale?
Cleaning and descaling the Silvano Evo is a walk in the park, especially if you're religious about regular cleaning.
Let's start with the brew group head. If you're firing up your machine every day, make it a habit to backflush every week. Just pop a blank basket into the portafilter, sprinkle in a touch of espresso machine cleaner, and run the machine like you're about to pull an epic shot.
On the maintenance front, the Silvano Evo likes to keep things fuss-free. It comes with a three-way solenoid valve that can make managing this amazing machine super convenient.
You won't be left dealing with a soupy mess post-brew, which, let's face it, is a headache you'd usually face with many entry-level machines.
On top of that, the removable large drip tray and water reservoir make for easy-peasy cleaning.
For the machine's exterior, including the steam arms, a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth does the trick. Ensure you give the steam wand a quick purge after every use - you don't want hardened milk messing with your frothing action.
Now and then, the Quick Mill Silvano Evo will need a little more TLC in the form of descaling.
It's a bit more complex, but it doesn't need to happen often. How frequently you should descale comes down to your water hardness.
For hard water, it's recommended to descale it every 2 to 3 months, while soft water will only require you to descale the machine between 6 to 12 months.
My Favorite Parts About The Silvano Evo Coffee Maker
- Simultaneous Brewing and Steaming: This feature is a real game-changer, especially when craving a creamy latte or a cappuccino. It cuts down the overall brewing time significantly.
- Tailored Brewing Experience: You can tweak the brewing temperature, shot timing, and grind size to extract the perfect espresso, all while using the built-in PID controller.
- High-quality Construction: The stainless steel construction gives the machine a sleek, professional look that I absolutely love. It doesn't just look good; it feels sturdy and durable, which adds to the overall value of the machine.
- Easy to Use: I was pleasantly surprised by how user-friendly the Silvano Evo is. Despite its advanced features, it's intuitive, even for a coffee brewing novice.
My Least Favorite Parts
- No Integrated Grinder: While the Silvano Evo handles coffee brewing and milk frothing beautifully, I wish it had an integrated grinder. Having a built-in grinder simplifies the process and saves counter space.
- No Water Filtration System: This machine lacks a built-in water filtration system, so you have to use filtered water or risk damaging the machine.
Quick Mill Silvano Evo Vs Similar Machines
Quick Mill Silvano Evo Vs Pippa
Both the Quick Mill Silvano Evo and the Pippa are semi-automatic espresso machines that provide excellent control over your brewing process.
While the Pippa offers a traditional single-boiler setup with a robust 1.8L water tank and a 1,000-watt heater, the Silvano Evo counters with a hybrid boiler system, enabling simultaneous brewing and steaming.
The Silvano Evo also offers a PID temperature controller, which makes it a great option for precise brewing.
Quick Mill Silvano Evo Vs Rocket Appartamento
The Rocket Appartamento and the Quick Mill Silvano Evo are both quality espresso machines with their own unique strengths.
Like the Silvano, the Appartamento has a heat-exchanger boiler, allowing you to brew and steam simultaneously.
However, the Appartamento also lacks a PID temperature controller, so you will lack control over the brew temperature.
Related Article - Rocket Espresso Appartamento Review
Quick Mill Silvano Evo Vs Rancilio Silvia
The Rancilio Silvia and the Quick Mill Silvano Evo are popular choices in the entry-level espresso machine market. The Silvia is a bit more compact and has a reputation for being durable and reliable.
However, it has a single boiler, so you can't brew and steam at the same time, unlike with the Silvano.
The Silvia also lacks a PID temperature control, which is standard on the Silvano. This means that you'll have more control over your espresso brewing with the Silvano.
Related Article - Rancilio Silvia Pro X Review
FAQs
How much is Quick Mill Silvano Espresso Machine?
A Silvano Evo espresso machine will cost you about $1,300.
How long does Quick Mill Silvano Espresso Machine last?
The Quick Mill Silvano Espresso Machine can typically last 10 to 15 years with proper care and maintenance.
Is The Quick Mill Silvano Evo Worth Your Money?
As an espresso lover who values convenience, customization, and control, I can say that the Silvano Evo is an excellent investment.
It provides the ability to customize key aspects of brewing, all while offering the simplicity of semi-automatic operation.
However, if you seek a more immersive, hands-on brewing experience, consider alternatives like the Rancilio Silvia or the Breville Barista Express.
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Quick Mill Silvano Evo
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Resources:
- https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-017-18247-4
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3775162/