COSTAR ST-695B espresso machine review – stainless steel 20-bar coffee machine for home

If you’re looking for a serious espresso machine for home that doesn’t feel cheap, weak, or toy-like, the COSTAR ST-695B espresso machine is designed for people who actually care about coffee quality.

Unlike basic coffee maker machines that just push hot water through powder, this model uses a 20-bar professional pump system, stainless steel housing, and manual milk frother to recreate café-style espresso, cappuccino, and latte right in your kitchen.

For Indian households wanting bold coffee flavour, thick crema, and long-term durability under ₹10,000, this espresso coffee machine sits in a very sweet spot.

Let’s break down how it performs in real daily use.

Quick Overview Validation Table – COSTAR ST-695B espresso machine

Full Overview of COSTAR ST-695B espresso machine

₹8,000 – ₹9,000

The COSTAR ST-695B espresso machine is built for people who want real espresso pressure and café-level extraction, not just hot coffee water.

Its 20-bar pump forces water through finely packed coffee grounds at high pressure, pulling out rich oils that create strong flavour and thick crema — something cheap coffee maker machines simply cannot do.

The stainless steel body gives it a premium feel while improving durability and heat resistance.
You also get a pressure gauge, which helps you brew shots more consistently — a feature usually found on more expensive espresso machines.

Add the manual milk frother wand and you can prepare:

• Espresso shots
• Cappuccino foam
• Latte milk texture
• Hot milk drinks

All in a compact countertop design perfect for Indian kitchens.

Key Features That Actually Improve Your Coffee Experience

20-Bar Professional Pressure Extraction

This is what separates real espresso from normal coffee. The high pressure pulls deep flavour compounds from coffee grounds, producing bold taste and visible crema just like café machines.

Stainless Steel Premium Build

Unlike plastic coffee machines, this one feels solid, long-lasting, and stable while brewing. It also handles heat better during repeated use.

Built-In Pressure Gauge

Lets you monitor extraction strength so your espresso doesn’t come out weak or burnt.

Manual Milk Frother Steam Wand

Create thick cappuccino foam, smooth latte milk, and creamy textures with practice.

Fast Heating System (1450W)

Your espresso is ready in under a minute — ideal for busy mornings.

Compact Countertop Design

Professional feel without taking too much kitchen space.

Real-World Performance (Based on Customer Feedback)

Coffee Taste Quality & Crema

Most Indian buyers highlight that the espresso comes out strong, aromatic, and rich, with a proper crema layer on top — something they never achieved with cheaper coffee makers.

Fresh ground coffee especially delivers café-like depth and body.

Many users mention the coffee tastes noticeably better than capsule-only machines.

Daily Ease of Use

Operation is straightforward:

Insert coffee → lock handle → press brew → espresso flows smoothly.

After a couple of uses, most beginners feel fully comfortable using it.

Milk Frothing Experience

The steam wand takes a little practice but once mastered:

• Creates thick cappuccino foam
• Works great for latte art textures
• Heats milk quickly

This is a major upgrade over machines with no frothing option.

Noise & Stability

Some brewing noise is normal (as with all espresso machines), but the heavy stainless steel body keeps it stable with no shaking.

Cleaning & Maintenance

Removable drip tray and water tank make daily cleaning very easy.
Most users finish cleaning in under 2 minutes.

Minor Complaints

A few buyers mention:

• No built-in grinder
• Manual frothing needs learning
• Tank could be bigger for heavy daily use

But overall satisfaction is very high for the price.

Pros & Cons

✅ Pros

Strong café-style espresso extraction
Premium stainless steel build
Excellent crema and aroma
Manual milk frother included
Compact yet professional design
Great value under ₹10,000

❌ Cons

No built-in coffee grinder
Manual frothing takes practice
Water tank average size

Who Should Buy This Espresso Machine?

👍 Perfect For:

Home coffee lovers wanting real espresso
People upgrading from basic coffee makers
Cappuccino & latte drinkers
Small to medium kitchens
Budget buyers wanting premium feel

🚫 Not Ideal For:

Those wanting fully automatic brewing
People who want built-in grinder convenience
Large families brewing many cups daily

Many buyers end up disappointed by weak coffee machines before upgrading. This guide on 7 espresso machine mistakes Indian buyers must avoid explains exactly what to look for before buying.

Final Verdict – Is COSTAR ST-695B espresso machine Worth It?

The COSTAR ST-695B espresso machine delivers genuine espresso quality at a price most Indian homes can afford.

You get:

✔ True 20-bar extraction
✔ Rich coffee taste
✔ Premium stainless steel durability
✔ Milk frothing for café drinks
✔ Excellent value for money

For anyone wanting a powerful espresso machine for home, this is one of the smartest buys under ₹10,000.

If you’re comparing budget machines, this roundup of the best espresso machines under ₹10,000 in India puts it in perspective