It's Ridiculously Good-Looking and Almost Always Sold Out in the UK, but How Does Fellow's Series 1 Espresso Machine Stack Up? Here's My Review

If you care about your appliances looking good on your countertop, you've likely already heard of San Francisco-based coffee brand Fellow, known for its high-tech coffee machines wrapped in super-sleek designs. And while the drip coffee maker was my first introduction to the brand, it has more recently released another exciting product: the Fellow Series 1 Espresso Machine (currently in stock at Harrods). Naturally, I had to try it out for myself.

As a short introduction, the Fellow Series 1 Espresso Machine is the brand's first fully realized espresso maker. It's a semi-automatic machine with the same high-tech functions as its other products. It has over 10 different drink types to choose from, an automatic milk-steaming wand, drink-customization technology, and the ability to connect via a smartphone app — oh, and it's incredibly, incredibly good-looking.

If I'm honest, what really caught my eye was how stylish this machine is compared to similar espresso machines on the market. For almosyt £1,500, though, it needs to do more than just that. But is it really worth the investment? I tried and tested the Fellow Series 1 Espresso Machine, and below are my honest thoughts and feelings afterwards.

Olivia Wolfe

Olivia Wolfe has been a design writer for Livingetc since 2024, and has a master's degree in arts and lifestyle journalism from the University of the Arts London, London College of Communication. Previously, Olivia worked in the coffee industry at multiple cafes, both in London and the United States. During this time, she took training-intensive courses at coffee roasteries where coffee beans are roasted, packed, and shipped. During these trainings, Olivia learned about different types of coffee beans, how region affects flavor, roasting methods, grinding methods for different brews, and the flavor profiles of coffee. Since being at Livingetc, Olivia has tested multiple coffee machines (and currently has four on her kitchen counter).

First Impressions

My first impression of this machine was that it was heavy. The box it came in wasn't unusually large, but it definitely was a doozy to pick up and transfer. Already, I thought this wasn't the best machine for small apartment kitchen countertops.

However, as I began to unbox the machine, I was quickly distracted by its very good looks. It's wide, but sits at a lower height than most espresso machines (whereas something like the Smeg cold brew machine is quite tall). And the contrast of the sleek, matte black body and shiny, chrome details (like the oversized group head and extended milk steaming wand) really elevates the look. It captures that luxury, home cafe aesthetic. Plus, the non-slip pad on the top of the machine is a nice touch for storing mugs.

There wasn't any true setup with this machine either. All it needed was to be plugged in and turned on, and then the machine guides you through the first steps, which involve a water hardness test, filling the water tank, and learning the different buttons — nothing unmanageable. I'd say the average person doesn't really need the instruction manual to get started.

One thing to flag up front: there is no built-in burr grinder, so you'll need to sort your own coffee grounds, but we will get to that shortly.

Testing the Machine

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So, testing the machine — the fun part. Again, this machine was surprisingly user-friendly for how high-tech it advertises itself as. I should've guessed after how easy the Aiden Precision Coffee Maker by Fellow was to use. Still, there are a few noticeable disadvantages.

Namely, the lack of a built-in grinder. I have to admit, for the over £1,000 price tag, not having a grinder in the machine is a bit of a let-down. That said, the Fellow Ode Brew Coffee Grinder is said to be one of the best coffee grinders on the market, so you’re in good hands, should you decide to buy separately.

Once you get your grinds sorted, using the machine is a smooth and stylish experience. The wooden handle on both the portafilter and tamp creates a nice tactile moment when pouring a shot. And there is just the right amount of hands-on effort, which also caters to a luxury experience. Measure and tamp your grinds, insert the portafilter into the group head, select a drink type, and watch your espresso shot brew.

There are over 10 different types of drinks you can choose from. If a milk-based drink is your preference, fill the jug according to the suggested measurements (when you select your drink, the machine indicates which milk measurements are needed) and place it under the steaming wand before pressing the start button. The machine takes care of the rest, or you can hold the jug yourself to practice your milk-frothing techniques. Streamlined, high-tech, and elevated.

Quality of Coffee

But how does the coffee taste, you ask? It’s an important question — what's a luxe-looking machine if the coffee tastes average? I'll start by saying that the Fellow Series 1 machine does deliver a tasty cup of coffee. But my experience wasn't all sunshine and roses; it took a few tries to get to a satisfactory shot.

At the beginning, achieving a thick crema layer was a challenge. Part of that is likely due to simply testing a new machine. However, I'd say it's wise to invest in coffee machine accessories like a scale to make sure you are getting the exact measurements — this will make your shots more precise, help your coffee machine work better, and make your coffee taste better.

The automated milk frother is also a bit tricky to get used to at first. Not because it doesn't work well (it is a very high-quality steaming wand that yields great results), but more so because of its automated nature. There is less room to customize and practice the amount of foam, silkiness, etc. that you want in your drink.

Other than that, the coffee tastes delicious. It's definitely a step up from a coffee pod machine, but it takes more effort and practice to get there than some other semi-automatic machines I've tried.

Should You Buy the Fellow Series 1 Espresso Machine?

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So, I've shared all of my thoughts and feelings while reviewing, but is the Fellow Series 1 Espresso Machine the right appliance for your coffee corner?

If you have the budget and design matters to you (and I'm assuming it does if you are reading this Livingetc review), then I'd say it's absolutely a solid investment. This is an appliance that looks incredible on the counter, whether you have a modern or traditional kitchen.

While aspects like the lack of a built-in grinder are a downside, it does give you the chance to explore a wider range of coffee products and how they can advance your coffee-making experience. Something like the Philips Series 5500 is fully automated and has everything you need, but there is less room for customization and learning the art of coffee-making.

Plus, the Fellow Series 1 is very easy to use, making it fabulous for people who want a streamlined morning routine. And once you decide what your favorite beverages are, you can customize the machine to recognize your preferences — futuristic.

All in all, it's a great machine for a luxury, high-quality coffee-making experience.

Other Fellow Coffee Accessories

I always love testing a new coffee machine, and Fellow has quickly become one of my favorite brands for a beautiful blend of form and function. Want something with a grinder included and just as much beauty? I can't say enough good things about the KitchenAid Semi-Automatic Machine.

And for more coffee information and inspiration, be sure to subscribe to the Livingetc newsletter.