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I tested the Nutribullet Flex portable blender: a lightweight, convenient companion for smoothies on the go
4:06 pm | January 20, 2026
Author: admin | Category: Computers Gadgets Home Juicers & Blenders Small Appliances | Comments: Off

Nutribullet Flex Portable Blender: one-minute review

Nutribullet has cemented itself as a trusted name in the kitchen appliance space, with its blenders and juicers among the best in the market. The Nutribullet Flex Portable Blender offers this same quality in a more lightweight package, allowing for on-the-go blending.

The Nutribullet Flex is an upgraded version of the Nutribullet Portable Blender, adding a few welcome new features, including increased capacity and clear charge indicators. As such, it comes in slightly more than its predecessor, while still being affordable at under $100.

Nutribullet Flex blender on kitchen counter

(Image credit: Future)

Considering the quality of this personal blender, it offers excellent value for money for those seeking a convenient, portable blender that produces optimal results with cold beverages and smoothies. Its lightweight design means you can easily disassemble the appliance and take it with you to work, the gym, or on vacation, while its rechargeability means you won’t be searching high and low for a plug socket.

Each of its four charges allows for approximately eight blend cycles (each lasts 30 seconds), meaning you can quickly mix your food and transport it with ease, using the convenient carry loop attached to its lid. If you’re looking for a personal blender that prioritises convenience, speed, and cold beverages, this is an excellent choice.

Nutribullet Flex blender being held with carry loop

(Image credit: Future)

However, this blender lacks versatility and can struggle with some ingredients or recipes, so you’re best to stick to cold drinks and smoothies with this one. Its portability is always negatively impacted by its volume, which could restrict where you can use it, and the lack of storage for its sharp blades.

Nutribullet Flex Portable Blender: price and availability

  • $69.99 / £59.99 / AU$99.95 at Nutribullet
  • Available at third-party retailers, such as Amazon, Decathlon, and Target

Priced at $69.99 / £59.99 / AU$99.95, the Nutribullet Flex Portable Blender offers great quality for an affordable price. And, what’s more, we regularly see discounts on this appliance at Nutribullet and third-party retailers.

While it doesn’t offer as much versatility as many of the best blenders on the market, if you’re looking for a portable blender for cold drinks and smoothies, without breaking the $100 mark, this is a great choice.

For those who want to keep under the $50 mark, however, the Nutribullet Magic Bullet Portable Blender ($39.99 / £39.99 / A$79.95) offers a solid alternative. If you don’t mind splashing out a bit more for a more powerful, convenient on-the-go blender, we highly recommend the Nutribullet Flip ($99.99, roughly £80 / AU$150), especially if you intend to make a lot of frozen or icy beverages.

  • Value score: 4.5/5

Nutribullet Flex Portable Blender: specifications

Review model

NBPB09220_250721

Accessories

USB-C charging cable (500mm / 19.7in)

Smart control

No

Rated power

100W

Capacity

590ml cup (400ml max)

Time range

Each blending cycle lasts 30 seconds

Dimensions

3.3in (D) x 11.4in (H) x 3.3in (W) / 83mm (D) x 290mm (H) x 83mm (W)

Weight

Approx. 1.9lbs / 850g

Dishwasher safe

Yes, top rack

Nutribullet Flex Portable Blender: design

  • Rechargeable, with plug-in option
  • Tight seals prevent leaks
  • Carry loop on sip lid for on-the-go drinks
  • No storage for blade block

Out of the box, the Nutribullet Flex Portable Blender comes with a motor base, a 590ml cup, a sip lid featuring a carry loop for on-the-go use, and a blade block. While our model came in black, Nutribullet offers several colour options, including green and grey.

The blender is straightforward to assemble and takes up minimal space, making it ideal for smaller kitchens or communal work/living spaces. Disassembling the appliance also requires minimal effort; its parts are fairly compact, so they easily fit into an average-sized backpack or gym bag. Our only concern is a lack of storage for the blade block, which is sharp. Including a small hub for this could make the appliance safer to transport.

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Nutribullet Flex blender sip lid

(Image credit: Future)
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Nutribullet Flex blender control button

(Image credit: Future)

This portable blender’s 590ml cup offers enough space to make a single smoothie or drink for one, though it's worth noting that the 'max' line on ours was at 400ml, meaning, in reality, that’s the capacity you have to work with. The accompanying sip lid screws snuggly onto the cup, preventing any leakages, while its secure carry loop allows you to carry your finished drink in hand as soon as your blending is complete.

The blade block fits tightly onto the bottom of the cup and is locked into the motor base with a satisfying click. Again, we had no issues with leakages throughout our testing. The motor base has a minimalistic LED display, featuring a large power button. This simply requires one press to turn on. When turned on, a clockwise light ring appears around the button, confirming it's ready to be operated. Below this button are four LED lights, indicating the amount of charge the blender currently has.

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Nutribullet Flex blender motor base

(Image credit: Future)
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Nutribullet Flex blender USB charging port

(Image credit: Future)

The Nutribullet Flex Portable Blender is rechargeable, meaning it largely works wirelessly. A USB-C cable for charging is included, which plugs into a discrete port at the back of the motor base. However, no adapter is included. While you can use the appliance plugged in, it must have at least one charge (one white light) for this to work, and operating the blender plugged in pauses charging during the blend cycle. In addition, the provided cable is only 50cm long, restricting where you can place the appliance.

We found it took approximately 50 minutes for one light (charge) to appear, and the blender offered approximately eight 30-second blending cycles per charge. This does, however, seem to be variable and can depend on what you’re blending and if you’re overheating the appliance.

This blender’s lightweight design makes it fairly easy to transport, but you may want to consider where you use it. Nutribullet products are typically quite loud, and while the Flex Portable Blender is a bit quieter (depending on its use), we found it averaged a decibel reading of 82, roughly equivalent to the volume of traffic. So, while you can take it to work or the gym, your colleagues and peers may not appreciate it.

  • Design score: 4.5/5

Nutribullet Flex Portable Blender: performance

  • Best suited to beverages
  • Blends smoothies consistently well
  • Struggles with certain solid ingredients
  • 30-second blend cycle may not be enough

We began our testing of the Nutribullet Flex Portable Blender with Nutribullet’s own Banana Kale smoothie recipe. Due to the size of the appliance, we had to half the recipe to ensure it fit the cup. This blender comes with a small leaflet instructing you on how to build a smoothie optimally, in other words, the order to add the ingredients. It’s a lifesaver for those new to smoothie making, and blenders, too, for that matter.

After adding the ingredients and securing the cup, we pressed the power button, which triggered a 30-second blend cycle – which you can stop at any time by pressing the button again. The results were impressive: the consistency was thick and creamy, but smooth. There were no lumps of unblended fruit or veg in the cup or under the blades.

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Nutribullet Flex blender containing banana kale smoothie ingredients

(Image credit: Future)
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Nutribullet Flex blender with banana kale smoothie

(Image credit: Future)
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Nutribullet Flex blender containing banana kale smoothie

(Image credit: Future)
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Nutribullet Flex blender containing remnants of banana kale smoothie

(Image credit: Future)

Next, we used one of the recipes Nutribullet recommends for this appliance. Following the included QR code takes you to the Nutribullet app, which allows you to input your appliance type and dietary requirements and suggests recipes based on your needs. The app itself is a bit of a pain; it signed us out every time we closed it, and wouldn’t let us sign in again without creating a new account. The recipes, too, were limited to fewer than 10, primarily smoothies and lattes.

We tried the Strawberry Banana Smoothie, composed of almond milk, ice, chia seeds, half a banana, strawberries, and vanilla extract. We again built the smoothie as suggested, but found that – despite being recommended for the Portable Blender – the ingredients exceeded the max line. This is potentially because they’re for the non-Flex version of this device, but this isn’t specified in the app (nor is Flex specifically a choice when choosing your device). As a result, we had to remove a large amount of ice for the blender to function safely.

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Nutribullet Flex blender containing strawberry banana smoothie ingredients

(Image credit: Future)
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Nutribullet Flex blender with finished strawberry banana smoothie

(Image credit: Future)
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Chia seeds stuck in Nutribullet Flex blender

(Image credit: Future)
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Remnants of strawberry banana smoothie in Nutribullet Flex blender

(Image credit: Future)

The results, again, were excellent. However, we did find a small lump of unblended banana in the final product, and some of our chia seeds had stuck to the side of the cup in a clump. Overall, this didn’t affect the final product and, again, there was no unblended residue stuck under the blades.

As part of our standard control testing for blenders, we don’t simply test smoothies, however. Nutribullet describes the Flex Portable as being for “on-the-go lifestyles,” and while that suggests it's primarily for beverages, it doesn’t specify it’s only for smoothies and cold drinks.

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Nutribullet Flex blender containing ingredients for hummus

(Image credit: Future)
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Nutribullet Flex blender containing blended hummus

(Image credit: Future)
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Nutribullet Flex blender containing blended hummus

(Image credit: Future)

We tested Nutribullet’s hummus recipe, again halving the ingredients. While the bottom portion of the ingredients blended fairly well after one cycle, the top remained untouched. The blender struggled considerably with the thickness of the hummus, slowing it to a standstill at one point, despite our attempts to loosen the mixture. Similarly, the appliance struggled with ice.

We wanted to use our ice control tests to check the chopping abilities of the blade. Again, the bottom portion was chopped, but the top remained untouched.

Nutribullet Flex blender containing ice

(Image credit: Future)

Surprisingly, what did work well was mayonnaise, another of our controls. This recipe applies more to a standard blender, as it requires adding oil while the device is on. We, instead, stopped the blender short of its cycle to add more before blending further each time. The result was actually nice, well-blended mayonnaise.

While the Nutribullet Flex Portable Blender is capable of mixing some non-beverage recipes, it’s not recommended. This isn’t necessarily a big drawback for this product, which is likely aimed at those making beverages on-the-go rather than quick mayo for your lunchtime sandwich.

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Nutribullet Flex blender containing blended mayonnaise

(Image credit: Future)
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Mayonnaise remnants in Nutribullet Flex blender

(Image credit: Future)

What is worth noting is its struggle with more solid, thicker ingredients and its lack of versatility. If you are in the market for a portable blender that focuses on making cold drinks and does that well, but doesn’t offer the capabilities of competitor products, this is an excellent choice.

  • Performance score: 4.5/5

Should you buy the Nutribullet Flex Portable Blender?

Nutribullet Flex Portable Blender score card

Attribute

Notes

Score

Value

This blender offers great value for an affordable price, even if it doesn't offer a lot of versatility.

4.5/5

Design

This appliance's lightweight design and carry loop make it easy to take your drinks on the go, but we wish there was a storage hub for its blade and it wasn't as loud.

4.5/5

Performance

This blender excels when making smoothies and cold drinks, but isn't necessarily suited to other recipes.

4.5/5

Buy it if

You want to make cold beverages on the go

The Nutribullet Flex Portable Blender is lightweight and has fairly compact parts, so it should easily fit in your work or gym bag, making it convenient to transport day-to-day. What’s more, thanks to the carry loop on its sip lid, you can make your drink, detach the cup from the base, and immediately take it to-go.

You want a high quality, affordable blender

Nutribullet is a top-of-the-range brand, and this blender offers the quality you would expect – without an eye-watering price tag. If you want a quality portable blender for under $100, this is a great choice.

It's for personal use

This appliance has enough capacity for one drink or smoothie at a time. So, it’s an ideal size for those looking for a portable blender for solo use.

Don't buy it if

You want versatility

As we’ve said above, this blender is great at making cold beverages, but lacks versatility when it comes to other recipes. If you want a blender with more options, it’s worth considering an alternative.

You want to use it in quieter environments

At an average of 82 decibels, this portable blender is quieter than some Nutribullet products we’ve tested, but still pretty loud. As such, it may not be as suited to quieter environments, like the workplace.

I tested Blink’s new Mini 2K+ camera, and was stunned by its high-resolution picture quality and ultra-compact design
2:50 pm |
Author: admin | Category: Computers Gadgets Home Home Security Smart Home | Tags: , | Comments: Off

Blink Mini 2K+: two-minute review

First launched in 2020, it’s fair to say that the Blink Mini has seen a fair few improvements over the last five years. Initially just a compact, bog-standard 1080p security camera, it was upgraded in 2024 with colour night vision and outdoor functionality as the Blink Mini 2 before receiving its current make-over as a 2K camera (2,560 x 1,440 pixels) in September 2025.

Available in black or white, it can be bought either individually or as a two-pack. We tested the two-pack version in white which currently retails on Amazon for the very reasonable price of £69.99 (about $100 / AU$140). Alternatively, you can buy it as a single unit in both colours for £39.99 (about $50 / AU$80). Whereas many of Blink’s products are battery-operated, making them particularly flexible for installation, the Blink Mini must be plugged into the mains.

However, because it doesn’t require a battery it does mean the camera is exceptionally small, around 2 x 2 inches / 5 x 5cm for the camera itself and standing around 3 inches / 8cm tall including the base. It’s also very lightweight so it’s easy to move from one part of the house to another if, say, you want to monitor a particular area of your property while you’re away on holiday.

As with most security cameras these days, installation requires downloading the camera’s app onto your smartphone and adding the device using the QR code on the back of the product. Alternatively, you can type in the serial code into your phone instead. Unlike more advanced models, the Blink Mini only works on the 2.4GHz Wi-Fi network (it's not compatible with the 5GHz frequency). However, this wasn’t a major issue.

Two Blink Mini 2 security cameras in box

(Image credit: Future)

You can use the Blink Mini 2K+ camera on its own via the app, or as part of a much larger network with other Blink devices, including video doorbells and indoor/outdoor security cameras. Not only does the Blink Mini 2K+ come with its own built-in siren, it can also be used as an indoor chime for the Blink video doorbell which, somewhat annoyingly, doesn’t have its own plug-in chime accessory.

In addition, the device automatically connects to Amazon Alexa so you can view footage via the Alexa app/TVs equipped with Fire TV or get notifications sent to Alexa-compatible devices, such as Amazon Echo smart speakers.

As with many home security devices, full functionality, such as the ability to filter motion alerts by person or vehicle (known as Blink Smart Detection) does require a subscription. However, the good news is that Blink’s subscriptions are half the price of Ring’s subscription costs, starting at £2.50 per month (compared to £4.99 per month for Ring).

Blink Mini 2K+: subscription options

Blink Basic Plan. Cost: £2.50 (about $3.50 / AU$5) per month or £24.99 (about $35 / AU$50) year. Covers: one camera. Features: cloud storage (30 days), person/vehicle detection (Blink Smart Detection), and video editing between devices (Blink Moments).

Blink Plus Plan. Cost: £8 (about $10 / AU$16) per month or £80 (about $100 / AU$160) year. Covers: Unlimited cameras at one location. Features: All Basic features plus 10% off Blink devices and extended warranty.

Local storage (no subscription). Cost: free. Requires: Sync Module 2 (£34.99 - about $50 / AU$70) and a USB flash drive. Features: saves clips locally. Note: Blink Smart Detection/Blink Moments is not available with this option.

Blink Mini 2K+: price and availability

  • How much does it cost? $49 / £39.99 / AU$89 each (£70 for two), $US49 ($89 for two), AU$69 ($130 for two)
  • When is it available? Available since September 2025
  • Where is it available? UK / US / Australia

US company Blink has earned a reputation for its reasonably priced home security devices, and the Mini 2K+ is certainly no exception. Whereas most cameras will set you back around $130 / £100 / $200 each, you can actually buy a two pack of Blink Mini 2K+ cameras for less than that price.

It’s certainly a pretty good deal, but as ever with consumer electronics these days, nothing is ever that simple. Sure, if you just want the basic features, such as motion alerts and two-way audio communication, then that is all you have to pay. But if you want the full functionality that the camera offers, including Blink Smart Detection and 30 days of recordings stored in the cloud, you will have to commit to a monthly subscription plan.

Alternatively, if you only need the subscription to store video clips, then you can always invest in the Blink Sync Module 2, which allows you to record and store up to 256GB of video clips on a connected USB flash drive. However, this will cost another £39.99 (about $50 / AU$80), plus the cost of the USB flash drive.

Finally, with an IP65 water resistance rating, the Blink Mini2K+ can be used outdoors, but only if you buy the 4m Blink Weather Resistant Power Adaptor, costing another £9 (about $12 / AU$20). Like the cameras, this is available in either white or black.

  • Value score: 4.5/5

Blink Mini 2K+: design

  • Extremely compact design
  • Built-in spotlight
  • Mains-powered only

The first thing you notice about the Blink Mini 2K+ is just how small it really is. Standing just an inch tall on a stand that can be positioned to virtually any angle, it certainly lives up to its 'mini' moniker.

Back of Blink Mini 2 camera with charging cable

(Image credit: Future)

Two colours are available – white or black (we tested the white) – and despite its bargain-basement price tag the Mini 2K+ feels like a classy, well-built security device. At the rear is a USB-C socket while provided with the camera is a 6.5ft / 2m USB-A to USB-C lead and a plug. Alternatively, it’s possible to buy a 13ft / 4m length of weather-resistant cable with power adaptor for outdoor use.

Once the Blink app is downloaded you can simply add the camera to your set up using the QR code on the back of the device where you’ll also find the speaker. This provides voice instructions during set up and can also be used as a chime for any connected Blink video doorbells.

Blink Mini 2 camera on table

(Image credit: Future)

Turn the camera around and in the centre there’s the 2K lens (2,560 x 1,440 pixels) while underneath is the built-in microphone. Also on board is a blue light that comes on during recording and at the top of the camera you’ll find the built-in spotlight for providing coloured images at night. Like the blue recording light, this can be switched on and off via the app, or set to come on automatically when the camera senses motion.

Blink Mini 2K+: performance

  • 2K resolution
  • Clear two-way audio
  • Decent color night vision

When it comes to performance, the Blink Mini 2K+ certainly offers a big improvement over its 1080p predecessor (at the time of writing this original model is available on Amazon so cheaply) Where you really notice the difference is when using the 4x digital pinch-to-zoom feature on your smartphone. With the 1080p camera, images soon become pixilated as you zoom in. However, with this latest 2K model you can home right in and see the detail in, say, a face or an item of clothing.

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Setting up Blink Mini 2 camera using mobile app

(Image credit: Future)
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Footage captured by Blink Mini 2 security camera

(Image credit: Future)

Another massive improvement is in night vision. Whereas the previous model only offered traditional IR (infrared) recording in black and white, this model boasts a surprisingly powerful built-in spotlight for color recording. During my tests, the spotlight illuminated the hallway when coming home on during the evening, producing vivid colored images on recorded footage. Audio, too, has been improved with two-way talk now filtering out background noise, such as traffic, so you can hear voices more clearly.

Users with a Blink video doorbell can set multiple Blink Mini 2K+ cameras as a chime so if someone presses the doorbell you can hear it in several rooms if you so choose. That’s particularly handy as Blink’s video doorbell doesn’t come with its own plug-in door chime, unlike models from other companies such as Ring.

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Subjection detection on Blink Mini 2 security camera, shown in app

(Image credit: Future)
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Video list from Blink Mini 2 camera, in mobile app

(Image credit: Future)

Finally, you can also link the Blink Mini 2K+ to Amazon Alexa to receive announcements such as ‘Motion detected at the office’ via your Echo speakers or display the video feed on your Echo Show. However, as Blink is now owned by Amazon, the device doesn’t work with rival platforms such as Google Home or Apple Home.

  • Performance score: 4.5/5

Should you buy the Blink Mini 2K+?

Blink Mini 2K+ score card

Attribute

Notes

Score

Value

Offering excellent value for money, you can buy two of these mini security cameras for the price of one from another brand such as fellow Amazon stablemate, Ring.

4.5/5

Design

Despite being very small, standing just a few centimetres tall, the Blink Mini 2K+ feels well-built and can be mounted just about anywhere indoors (even outdoors with a weather-resistant power adaptor).

4.5/5

Performance

Boasting 2K video resolution, the Blink Mini 2K+ also offers improved night vision over its predecessor thanks to the inclusion of a strong spotlight.

4.5/5

Average rating

The Blink Mini 2K+ is a great choice if you’re looking for a small and flexible security camera but don’t have much of a budget. The only slight fly in the ointment is you have to pay a small monthly subscription for full functionality.

4.5/5

Blink Mini 2K+: also consider

Blink Mini 2K+

Ring Outdoor Cam Pro

Eufy 4K S330 Security Camera

Subscription price

From £2.50 a month

From £4.99 a month

None

Resolution

2K (2,560 x 1,440 pixels)

4K (3,840 x 2,160 pixels)

4K (3,840 x 2,160 pixels)

Field of view

138 degrees diagonal

140 degrees horizontal

360-degree view (pan and tilt)

Network connection

Wi-Fi (2.4GHz)

Wi-Fi (2.4GHz/5GHz)

Wi-Fi/4G

Audio

Two-way audio

Two-way audio

Two-way audio

Power

Mains (USB-C)

Mains

Battery

Hardware price

£39

£179

£189 (with solar panel)

If you're not quite sure whether the Blink Mini 2K+ is the best home security camera for you, here are two other options to consider:

Ring Outdoor Cam Pro

The Outdoor Cam Pro represents a leap into high-resolution surveillance for Ring. However, the high levels of performance come at a fairly hefty price, especially when you factor in the subscription plan.

Read our full Ring Outdoor Cam Pro reviewView Deal

Eufy 4K S330 Security Camera

An extremely innovative battery and solar-powered camera, the Eufy can be used with the supplied 4G SIM card to capture recordings, making it ideal for those who live in areas with poor Wi-Fi / broadband.

Read our full Eufy 4K S330 Security Camera reviewView Deal

Should you buy the Blink Mini 2K+?

Buy it if

You're on a budget

At £39.99 (or £70 for two), this is the most affordable way to get high-quality 2K surveillance.

You want a flexible solution

The compact design and pivot stand mean you can easily move it from room to room.

You own a Blink video doorbell

The Blink Mini 2K+ can serve as an indoor chime for the Blink video doorbell.

Don't buy it if

You want a wire-free home

The Blink Mini 2K+ needs to be connected to the mains at all times via the USB-C to USB-A cable provided.

You want advanced features for free

Unfortunately, you will have to pay a monthly fee if you want Blink Smart Detection (which distinguishes between vehicles and people) and Blink Moments (which edits footage together from multiple Blink cameras shot at the same time).

How I tested the Blink Mini 2K+ security camera

  • I used a pair of cameras in several rooms of the house for three weeks
  • I set them up myself using the QR code provided on the back of each model
  • I linked them to other devices including a Blink video doorbell and several Amazon Echo smart speakers

Testing the two cameras over the Christmas/New Year period gave me the ideal opportunity to see how they responded to visitors coming to the house. Throughout this time one of the cameras was focused on my hallway facing the front door with the spotlight set to come on whenever motion was detected. It also served as a chime for my Blink video doorbell, which I could hear throughout the house.

he other camera was moved between several rooms, including the kitchen and downstairs as well as upstairs rooms we use as offices. However, the cameras weren’t used outside as the units provided didn’t come with the necessary waterproof power adaptor.

Lavazza’s A Modo Mio Deséa makes delicious espresso and a decent cappuccino – if you use the right milk
5:00 pm | January 18, 2026
Author: admin | Category: Coffee Machines Computers Gadgets Home Small Appliances | Tags: , , | Comments: Off

Lavazza A Mio Modo Deséa: one-minute review

The Lavazza A Modo Mio Deséa is a compact capsule coffee maker with optional milk-frothing for cappuccinos and macchiatos, plus hot and cold milk foam. It's excellent at the fundamentals, and Lavazza's A Modo Mio pods are superb – affordably priced and packed with great quality coffee, with no flavored or sweetened options.

The Deséa is simple to use, as you'd expect from a capsule coffee maker, and is exceptionally quiet. During the testing period, it reached a maximum of only 50dB during brewing, making it the quietest machine I've tested to date.

It uses the same milk-frothing system as the Lavazza Assoluta (an automatic coffee maker that adapts its own settings to suit your chosen beans). This comprises a large glass cup with a lid containing a rotating electric whisk and a steam pipe. It works reasonably well with full-fat dairy milk, but in tests it produced very little foam when used with oat milk. This was very different to my experience with the Assoluta, so I suspect the much smaller Deséa may not be able to generate the same level of steam pressure.

Overall, it's a likeable little espresso machine that would be a good option for small kitchens, particularly if you're the lone coffee-drinker. The price of its capsules won't make you sweat, even if you enjoy several cups a day.

Lavazza A Mio Modo Deséa: specifications

Name

Lavazza A Modo Mio Smeg

Type

Capsule coffee maker

Dimensions (H x W x D)

11 x 5.7 x 15 inches / 280 x 145 x 380mm

Weight

9.9lbs / 4.5kg

Water tank capacity

37oz / 1.1 liters

Lavazza A Mio Modo Deséa: price and availability

  • Similar price to other capsule coffee makers with milk foaming
  • Available in Europe and Australia, but not currently sold in the US
  • A Modo Mio coffee pods are much cheaper than alternatives

The Lavazza A Modo Mio Deséa has a list price of £249 / AU$349 (about $330), but is often available at a discount. For example, at the time of writing, it could be found on sale for £199 in the UK in Lavazza’s online store, and $261.75 in Australia. Currently, this model isn't available in the US.

That price is about standard for a capsule coffee maker with a built-in milk frother. For comparison, the De'Longhi Lattissima One is currently priced at $429.99 / £259.99 / AU$519.

What sets the Deséa apart from the competition is the price of its capsules. A pack of 16 Lavazza A Modo Mio capsules retails for £6.45 / AU$15 (about $9), and the cost per drink drops significantly if you buy a bundle instead. That makes the A Modo Mio capsules some of the cheapest around, and much less expensive than Nespresso Vertuo or Tassimo alternatives.

A Modo Mio pods offer up lots of choice when it comes to coffee blends, roasts and terroir, but you won’t find any hot chocolate or coffee with added flavors. Your options are espresso, espresso, and more espresso. During testing, I found the freshly ground and vacuum-sealed beans excellent – but note that if your drink of choice is pumpkin spice, you won’t find it here.

  • Value score: 4.5/5

Lavazza A Mio Modo Deséa: design

  • Compact and smart-looking
  • Includes milk-frothing system
  • Milk frother only works with supplied mug
  • Dishwasher-safe components

The Lavazza A Modo Mio Deséa is available in black, white, cream and a deep burgundy (different retailers keep different colors in stock). It has a robust-feeling, glossy case with the company logo embossed on the side, and although it isn't quite as sleek as the Lavazza A Modo Mio Smeg, it certainly isn't a slouch in the looks department. Gloss finishes can sometimes be a magnet for fingerprints, but I was pleased to find that this wasn’t an issue with the cream-colored model I tested.

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Person adjusting height of drip tray on Lavazza A Modo Mio Deséa coffee maker

You can adjust the height of the drip tray to suit different cups (Image credit: Future)
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Coffee capsule slot on top of Lavazza A Modo Mio Deséa coffee maker

The Deséa takes Lavazza A Modo Mio capsules, which can be composted industrially (Image credit: Future)

The Deséa is particularly compact, even for a capsule coffee maker. At just 11 x 5.7 x 15 inches / 280 x 145 x 380mm (H x W x D), it will easily tuck away into the smallest of kitchens – and can be stashed in a cupboard when not in use (provided it’s properly cleaned and dried beforehand). Despite this, it has a larger water tank than most pod coffee machines, holding 37oz / 1.1 liters. That’s because this isn’t just an espresso machine; it can also foam milk for lattes and cappuccinos using high-pressure steam.

The Deséa has an unusual milk-frothing system that uses a special glass mug with a lid containing a steam tube and a whisk. It's the same system used by the Lavazza Assoluta I tested a couple of months ago, and although it isn't as effective as a proper steam wand, it works reasonably well – provided you use the right type of milk.

However, bear in mind that you can only make milk-based drinks in the glass mug; the special lid doesn't fit onto other cups. Unless you buy a second (they are $22.70 / £15 each), you and your partner won't be able to enjoy lattes as the same time.

Image 1 of 2

Milk frothing cup for Lavazza A Modo Mio Deséa coffee maker

The milk system uses a glass mug with a lid containing a steam pipe and a rotating whisk (Image credit: Future)
Image 2 of 2

Water tank detached from Lavazza A Modo Mio Deséa coffee maker

The water tank holds almost a liter and has a sturdy lid and handle to prevent spills (Image credit: Future)

Most removable components (including the cup, drip tray and used pod container) can be safely cleaned in the top rack of your dishwasher, although they take only a moment to wash by hand, too.

The drip tray can be detached and positioned higher up to avoid splashes if you’re using an espresso cup, which is a welcome touch. Used pods drop into a bin that can be accessed by removing the tray and pulling out a drawer on the front of the machine.

  • Design score: 4/5

Lavazza A Mio Modo Deséa: performance

  • Produces excellent espresso
  • Extensive drinks menu
  • Milk system doesn't work as well as a steam wand
  • Performs better with dairy than plant-based milk

The Lavazza A Modo Mio Deséa has a cleverly designed control panel that displays the different menu options depending on the cup you’re using. Place an ordinary cup of any size under the dispenser and you’ll see options for brewing an espresso, long espresso (lungo), and long coffee. Push the milk-foaming cup into place and the options for milk-based drinks will light up. The full menu includes:

  • Espresso
  • Long espresso (lungo)
  • Long coffee (Americano)
  • Cappuccino (regular or large)
  • Latte macchiato
  • Hot milk foam
  • Cold milk foam

You can adjust the volume of your coffee pour, which is a nice feature that you won’t find on many capsule coffee machines. All the drink size options are customizable; just hold the appropriate button on the control panel for three seconds to begin dispensing, then press it again once you have the desired volume. When you hear two beeps, you know the new setting has been saved successfully, ready to use next time.

Like the Lavazza A Modo Mio Smeg coffee maker I tested recently, the Deséa brews excellent, well-rounded espresso in just a few seconds, and does so extremely quietly. Using a decibel meter, I measured an average volume of 50dB when extracting coffee, which is about the same as the murmur of a quiet office (although Lavazza claims the volume doesn't exceed 43dB).

After your coffee has brewed and the lights on the front panel have re-illuminated, lift the lid and after a second or two you’ll hear the used pod drop into the collection bin.

Image 1 of 2

Lavazza A Modo Mio Deséa coffee maker dispensing espresso

Espresso is consistently delicious, and the machine's pump is exceptionally quiet (Image credit: Future)
Image 2 of 2

Lavazza A Modo Mio Deséa coffee maker waste bin with used coffee pods

Used pods drop into a bin, ready to be collected for commercial composting (Image credit: Future)

The milk system is a little louder when injecting steam, reaching a maximum of 70dB for a couple of seconds as it incorporates air, but it's quieter than the squeal and rip of a manual steam wand, and the whisk is whisper-quiet.

When you want to use the milk system, take a good look at the fill lines on the side of the glass cup that indicate how much milk to add for different drink sizes. Add too much milk and it risks splashing; too little and it won’t foam properly.

During tests, the Deséa didn’t fare very well when texturizing oat milk, which was very different from my experience with the Lavazza Assoluta. Despite the two machines using the same cup-and-lid system, the Assoluta produced inches of creamy oat foam, whereas the Deséa heated the milk (a little too much – it reached 70ºC, whereas the optimum for coffee is about 60-65ºC), but didn’t actually create any froth, even with the "extra foam" option selected.

Lavazza A Modo Mio Deséa coffee maker dispensing espresso into milk to make cappuccino

The milk system works much better with dairy than plant-based milk (Image credit: Future)

The Deséa’s milk system worked much better with full-fat dairy milk, although I found that it still didn’t produce quite as much foam as the Assoluta. This might be because the smaller Deséa can’t generate as much pressure and inject as much steam into the liquid.

The Deséa can also prepare cold milk foam. To do this, add your cup of milk, drop in a coffee pod if required, hold the temperature +/- button on the front of the machine until the foam and latte lights turn blue, then press the one you want. Again, during my tests this worked better with dairy milk. It’s a nice feature, but bear in mind that the Deséa can only brew hot coffee, so if you want to make a cold latte then you’ll need to add a shot of hot espresso when the milk is ready, which will raise the temperature. You might like to add a few ice cubes to the drink once it’s made (but not before, as they could damage the whisk).

Cappuccino prepared using Lavazza A Modo Mio Deséa coffee maker

The whisk produces large bubbles rather than fine microfoam, so the froth tends to break down relatively quickly (Image credit: Future)

Finally, a word on waste. Lavazza’s A Modo Mio capsules are compostable, but you can’t simply toss them into your household waste or add them to a compost pile. They have to be processed in an industrial facility; currently Terracycle is the only service that offers this in the UK. There’sno home collection or postage system as there is with plastic and foil coffee pods, so you’ll need to gather your used capsules and take them to a drop-off point. If there isn’t one near you, you can apply to create one.

  • Performance score: 3.5/5

Should you buy the Lavazza A Mio Modo Deséa?

Lavazza A Mio Modo Deséa score card

Attribute

Notes

Score

Value

Similar price to other capsule coffee makers with milk frother, but the pods are much cheaper.

4.5/5

Design

Compact and smart-looking, though milk system only works with supplied mug.

4/5

Performance

Doesn't foam milk as well as a steam wand, but espresso is consistently excellent and the whole machine is very quiet in use.

3.5/5

Buy it if

You have a compact kitchen

There aren't many coffee machines this small with a milk-frothing system, and the Deséa is light enough to easily move around your home and tuck into a cupboard when it isn't in use.

You're a frequent coffee-drinker

Other capsule coffee makers may be cheaper to buy, but the pods can be very expensive, particularly if you drink several cups a day. Lavazza's A Modo Mio pods are super affordable, and packed with great-quality coffee.

Don't buy it if

You prefer plant-based milk

The Deséa's milk system works best with full-fat dairy, which is true of many automatic coffee makers. If you want to stick with oat or soya, you might be better choosing the Lavazza A Modo Mio Jolie, which arrives with a standalone milk frother.

You want to make a round of coffees

The milk system only works with Lavazza's own mug; you can't fit the lid onto your own favorite cup. Again, a more basic Lavazza A Modo Mio machine and a separate milk frother would be a great alternative.

Lavazza A Mio Modo Deséa: also consider

If you're not sure whether the Lavazza A Modo Mio Deséa is the best coffee maker for you, here are two other options for your shortlist:

De'Longhi Lattissima One

This smart coffee maker uses Nespresso Original pods (the ones shaped like top hats) and has a milk system that produces foam more like a conventional steam wand. You can use any cup and the froth is thick; but the capsules cost more than A Modo Mio ones.

Read our full De'Longhi Lattissima One review

De'Longhi Dedica Duo

Want to move on from capsules? This little manual espresso machine costs about the same as the Deséa and is a great introduction to fresh speciality coffee. It has an excellent steam wand as well.

Read our full De'Longhi Dedica Duo reviewView Deal

How I tested the Lavazza A Mio Modo Deséa

I used the Lavazza A Mio Deséa for two weeks, making at least two drinks per day and using all of the available drink options (including hot and cold milk foam). I used it with dairy and oat milk, both of which were freshly purchased and chilled. I used two different types of Lavazza A Modo Mio coffee capsules, with different intensities.

I measured the temperature of the prepared milk with a food thermometer, and used a decibel meter app to measure the machine's volume.

For more details, see how we test, rate, and review at TechRadar.

Lavazza’s A Modo Mio Deséa makes delicious espresso and a decent cappuccino – if you use the right milk
5:00 pm |
Author: admin | Category: Coffee Machines Computers Gadgets Home Small Appliances | Tags: , , | Comments: Off

Lavazza A Mio Modo Deséa: one-minute review

The Lavazza A Modo Mio Deséa is a compact capsule coffee maker with optional milk-frothing for cappuccinos and macchiatos, plus hot and cold milk foam. It's excellent at the fundamentals, and Lavazza's A Modo Mio pods are superb – affordably priced and packed with great quality coffee, with no flavored or sweetened options.

The Deséa is simple to use, as you'd expect from a capsule coffee maker, and is exceptionally quiet. During the testing period, it reached a maximum of only 50dB during brewing, making it the quietest machine I've tested to date.

It uses the same milk-frothing system as the Lavazza Assoluta (an automatic coffee maker that adapts its own settings to suit your chosen beans). This comprises a large glass cup with a lid containing a rotating electric whisk and a steam pipe. It works reasonably well with full-fat dairy milk, but in tests it produced very little foam when used with oat milk. This was very different to my experience with the Assoluta, so I suspect the much smaller Deséa may not be able to generate the same level of steam pressure.

Overall, it's a likeable little espresso machine that would be a good option for small kitchens, particularly if you're the lone coffee-drinker. The price of its capsules won't make you sweat, even if you enjoy several cups a day.

Lavazza A Mio Modo Deséa: specifications

Name

Lavazza A Modo Mio Smeg

Type

Capsule coffee maker

Dimensions (H x W x D)

11 x 5.7 x 15 inches / 280 x 145 x 380mm

Weight

9.9lbs / 4.5kg

Water tank capacity

37oz / 1.1 liters

Lavazza A Mio Modo Deséa: price and availability

  • Similar price to other capsule coffee makers with milk foaming
  • Available in Europe and Australia, but not currently sold in the US
  • A Modo Mio coffee pods are much cheaper than alternatives

The Lavazza A Modo Mio Deséa has a list price of £249 / AU$349 (about $330), but is often available at a discount. For example, at the time of writing, it could be found on sale for £199 in the UK in Lavazza’s online store, and $261.75 in Australia. Currently, this model isn't available in the US.

That price is about standard for a capsule coffee maker with a built-in milk frother. For comparison, the De'Longhi Lattissima One is currently priced at $429.99 / £259.99 / AU$519.

What sets the Deséa apart from the competition is the price of its capsules. A pack of 16 Lavazza A Modo Mio capsules retails for £6.45 / AU$15 (about $9), and the cost per drink drops significantly if you buy a bundle instead. That makes the A Modo Mio capsules some of the cheapest around, and much less expensive than Nespresso Vertuo or Tassimo alternatives.

A Modo Mio pods offer up lots of choice when it comes to coffee blends, roasts and terroir, but you won’t find any hot chocolate or coffee with added flavors. Your options are espresso, espresso, and more espresso. During testing, I found the freshly ground and vacuum-sealed beans excellent – but note that if your drink of choice is pumpkin spice, you won’t find it here.

  • Value score: 4.5/5

Lavazza A Mio Modo Deséa: design

  • Compact and smart-looking
  • Includes milk-frothing system
  • Milk frother only works with supplied mug
  • Dishwasher-safe components

The Lavazza A Modo Mio Deséa is available in black, white, cream and a deep burgundy (different retailers keep different colors in stock). It has a robust-feeling, glossy case with the company logo embossed on the side, and although it isn't quite as sleek as the Lavazza A Modo Mio Smeg, it certainly isn't a slouch in the looks department. Gloss finishes can sometimes be a magnet for fingerprints, but I was pleased to find that this wasn’t an issue with the cream-colored model I tested.

Image 1 of 2

Person adjusting height of drip tray on Lavazza A Modo Mio Deséa coffee maker

You can adjust the height of the drip tray to suit different cups (Image credit: Future)
Image 2 of 2

Coffee capsule slot on top of Lavazza A Modo Mio Deséa coffee maker

The Deséa takes Lavazza A Modo Mio capsules, which can be composted industrially (Image credit: Future)

The Deséa is particularly compact, even for a capsule coffee maker. At just 11 x 5.7 x 15 inches / 280 x 145 x 380mm (H x W x D), it will easily tuck away into the smallest of kitchens – and can be stashed in a cupboard when not in use (provided it’s properly cleaned and dried beforehand). Despite this, it has a larger water tank than most pod coffee machines, holding 37oz / 1.1 liters. That’s because this isn’t just an espresso machine; it can also foam milk for lattes and cappuccinos using high-pressure steam.

The Deséa has an unusual milk-frothing system that uses a special glass mug with a lid containing a steam tube and a whisk. It's the same system used by the Lavazza Assoluta I tested a couple of months ago, and although it isn't as effective as a proper steam wand, it works reasonably well – provided you use the right type of milk.

However, bear in mind that you can only make milk-based drinks in the glass mug; the special lid doesn't fit onto other cups. Unless you buy a second (they are $22.70 / £15 each), you and your partner won't be able to enjoy lattes as the same time.

Image 1 of 2

Milk frothing cup for Lavazza A Modo Mio Deséa coffee maker

The milk system uses a glass mug with a lid containing a steam pipe and a rotating whisk (Image credit: Future)
Image 2 of 2

Water tank detached from Lavazza A Modo Mio Deséa coffee maker

The water tank holds almost a liter and has a sturdy lid and handle to prevent spills (Image credit: Future)

Most removable components (including the cup, drip tray and used pod container) can be safely cleaned in the top rack of your dishwasher, although they take only a moment to wash by hand, too.

The drip tray can be detached and positioned higher up to avoid splashes if you’re using an espresso cup, which is a welcome touch. Used pods drop into a bin that can be accessed by removing the tray and pulling out a drawer on the front of the machine.

  • Design score: 4/5

Lavazza A Mio Modo Deséa: performance

  • Produces excellent espresso
  • Extensive drinks menu
  • Milk system doesn't work as well as a steam wand
  • Performs better with dairy than plant-based milk

The Lavazza A Modo Mio Deséa has a cleverly designed control panel that displays the different menu options depending on the cup you’re using. Place an ordinary cup of any size under the dispenser and you’ll see options for brewing an espresso, long espresso (lungo), and long coffee. Push the milk-foaming cup into place and the options for milk-based drinks will light up. The full menu includes:

  • Espresso
  • Long espresso (lungo)
  • Long coffee (Americano)
  • Cappuccino (regular or large)
  • Latte macchiato
  • Hot milk foam
  • Cold milk foam

You can adjust the volume of your coffee pour, which is a nice feature that you won’t find on many capsule coffee machines. All the drink size options are customizable; just hold the appropriate button on the control panel for three seconds to begin dispensing, then press it again once you have the desired volume. When you hear two beeps, you know the new setting has been saved successfully, ready to use next time.

Like the Lavazza A Modo Mio Smeg coffee maker I tested recently, the Deséa brews excellent, well-rounded espresso in just a few seconds, and does so extremely quietly. Using a decibel meter, I measured an average volume of 50dB when extracting coffee, which is about the same as the murmur of a quiet office (although Lavazza claims the volume doesn't exceed 43dB).

After your coffee has brewed and the lights on the front panel have re-illuminated, lift the lid and after a second or two you’ll hear the used pod drop into the collection bin.

Image 1 of 2

Lavazza A Modo Mio Deséa coffee maker dispensing espresso

Espresso is consistently delicious, and the machine's pump is exceptionally quiet (Image credit: Future)
Image 2 of 2

Lavazza A Modo Mio Deséa coffee maker waste bin with used coffee pods

Used pods drop into a bin, ready to be collected for commercial composting (Image credit: Future)

The milk system is a little louder when injecting steam, reaching a maximum of 70dB for a couple of seconds as it incorporates air, but it's quieter than the squeal and rip of a manual steam wand, and the whisk is whisper-quiet.

When you want to use the milk system, take a good look at the fill lines on the side of the glass cup that indicate how much milk to add for different drink sizes. Add too much milk and it risks splashing; too little and it won’t foam properly.

During tests, the Deséa didn’t fare very well when texturizing oat milk, which was very different from my experience with the Lavazza Assoluta. Despite the two machines using the same cup-and-lid system, the Assoluta produced inches of creamy oat foam, whereas the Deséa heated the milk (a little too much – it reached 70ºC, whereas the optimum for coffee is about 60-65ºC), but didn’t actually create any froth, even with the "extra foam" option selected.

Lavazza A Modo Mio Deséa coffee maker dispensing espresso into milk to make cappuccino

The milk system works much better with dairy than plant-based milk (Image credit: Future)

The Deséa’s milk system worked much better with full-fat dairy milk, although I found that it still didn’t produce quite as much foam as the Assoluta. This might be because the smaller Deséa can’t generate as much pressure and inject as much steam into the liquid.

The Deséa can also prepare cold milk foam. To do this, add your cup of milk, drop in a coffee pod if required, hold the temperature +/- button on the front of the machine until the foam and latte lights turn blue, then press the one you want. Again, during my tests this worked better with dairy milk. It’s a nice feature, but bear in mind that the Deséa can only brew hot coffee, so if you want to make a cold latte then you’ll need to add a shot of hot espresso when the milk is ready, which will raise the temperature. You might like to add a few ice cubes to the drink once it’s made (but not before, as they could damage the whisk).

Cappuccino prepared using Lavazza A Modo Mio Deséa coffee maker

The whisk produces large bubbles rather than fine microfoam, so the froth tends to break down relatively quickly (Image credit: Future)

Finally, a word on waste. Lavazza’s A Modo Mio capsules are compostable, but you can’t simply toss them into your household waste or add them to a compost pile. They have to be processed in an industrial facility; currently Terracycle is the only service that offers this in the UK. There’sno home collection or postage system as there is with plastic and foil coffee pods, so you’ll need to gather your used capsules and take them to a drop-off point. If there isn’t one near you, you can apply to create one.

  • Performance score: 3.5/5

Should you buy the Lavazza A Mio Modo Deséa?

Lavazza A Mio Modo Deséa score card

Attribute

Notes

Score

Value

Similar price to other capsule coffee makers with milk frother, but the pods are much cheaper.

4.5/5

Design

Compact and smart-looking, though milk system only works with supplied mug.

4/5

Performance

Doesn't foam milk as well as a steam wand, but espresso is consistently excellent and the whole machine is very quiet in use.

3.5/5

Buy it if

You have a compact kitchen

There aren't many coffee machines this small with a milk-frothing system, and the Deséa is light enough to easily move around your home and tuck into a cupboard when it isn't in use.

You're a frequent coffee-drinker

Other capsule coffee makers may be cheaper to buy, but the pods can be very expensive, particularly if you drink several cups a day. Lavazza's A Modo Mio pods are super affordable, and packed with great-quality coffee.

Don't buy it if

You prefer plant-based milk

The Deséa's milk system works best with full-fat dairy, which is true of many automatic coffee makers. If you want to stick with oat or soya, you might be better choosing the Lavazza A Modo Mio Jolie, which arrives with a standalone milk frother.

You want to make a round of coffees

The milk system only works with Lavazza's own mug; you can't fit the lid onto your own favorite cup. Again, a more basic Lavazza A Modo Mio machine and a separate milk frother would be a great alternative.

Lavazza A Mio Modo Deséa: also consider

If you're not sure whether the Lavazza A Modo Mio Deséa is the best coffee maker for you, here are two other options for your shortlist:

De'Longhi Lattissima One

This smart coffee maker uses Nespresso Original pods (the ones shaped like top hats) and has a milk system that produces foam more like a conventional steam wand. You can use any cup and the froth is thick; but the capsules cost more than A Modo Mio ones.

Read our full De'Longhi Lattissima One review

De'Longhi Dedica Duo

Want to move on from capsules? This little manual espresso machine costs about the same as the Deséa and is a great introduction to fresh speciality coffee. It has an excellent steam wand as well.

Read our full De'Longhi Dedica Duo reviewView Deal

How I tested the Lavazza A Mio Modo Deséa

I used the Lavazza A Mio Deséa for two weeks, making at least two drinks per day and using all of the available drink options (including hot and cold milk foam). I used it with dairy and oat milk, both of which were freshly purchased and chilled. I used two different types of Lavazza A Modo Mio coffee capsules, with different intensities.

I measured the temperature of the prepared milk with a food thermometer, and used a decibel meter app to measure the machine's volume.

For more details, see how we test, rate, and review at TechRadar.

Want delicious, quality espresso with the convenience of pods? After two weeks of testing, I can say the Lavazza A Modo Mio Smeg is the coffee maker for you
4:00 pm | January 17, 2026
Author: admin | Category: Coffee Machines Computers Gadgets Home Small Appliances | Tags: | Comments: Off

Lavazza A Modo Mio Smeg: one-minute review

The Lavazza A Modo Mio Smeg combines the convenience of coffee capsules with Smeg's signature retro style. It's a cut above your typical espresso machine in terms of looks, and it performs brilliantly as well.

This is an appliance that does one thing, and does it well: making espresso. There are just two options to choose from – standard or lungo (long) – and the controls couldn't be simpler to operate. You barely need the manual to get started; just rinse the machine as directed and you're ready to make your first drink.

Lavazza's A Modo Mio capsules are remarkably affordable (much cheaper than similar Nespresso Vertuo or Tassimo pods), and offer a great variety of coffees and roasts, each of which is labelled with an intensity rating. There are no fancy added flavors here; just good coffee, freshly packed in an airtight package, ready to brew in seconds.

The pods themselves are compostable, although it's worth bearing in mind that you can't toss them in your home food waste or compost heap. Instead, you'll need to take them to a Terracycle collection point, which might be a little inconvenient, depending on where you live.

Lavazza A Modo Mio Smeg coffee maker on kitchen counter with espresso cups, box of coffee pods, and plant

This is a capsule coffee machine that does one thing well: it makes great espresso (Image credit: Future)

The A Modo Mio Smeg also has a tendency to accumulate finger marks as a result of its glossy plastic chassis. I had a damp cloth on hand to ensure it remained looking smart; but it's one of the best coffee makers around – if you like your drinks short, strong, and fast.

Lavazza A Modo Mio Smeg: specifications

Name

Lavazza A Modo Mio Smeg

Type

Capsule coffee maker

Dimensions (H x W x D)

11.4 x 6.2 x 14.4 inches / 290 x 157 x 366mm

Weight

9.4lbs / 4.25kg

Water tank capacity

30.4oz / 900ml

Lavazza A Modo Mio Smeg: price and availability

  • Relatively expensive for a capsule coffee maker
  • Currently not available in the US
  • Pods are much cheaper than Nespresso or Tassimo capsules

The Lavazza A Modo Mio Smeg has a list price of £249 / AU$349 (about $350), but can sometimes be found at a discount – for example, at the time of writing, it was available in Australia for 25% off. At full price, it's expensive for a capsule coffee maker – particularly one without a milk frother – but the capsules themselves are so affordable that this coffee maker could actually work out cheaper than a budget Nespresso or Tassimo machine in the long run.

Lavazza A Modo Mio capsules are available directly from Lavazza as a one-off purchase or via subscription. You can also find them on various specialty coffee websites, on Amazon, and in some supermarkets. A pack of 16 capsules retails for £6.45 / AU$15 (about $9), and the cost per drink drops significantly if you buy a bundle instead. That makes A Modo Mio pods some of the cheapest coffee pods around, and much less expensive than Nespresso Vertuo capsules or Tassimo T-Pods.

  • Value score: 4/5

Lavazza A Modo Mio Smeg: design

  • Compact and lightweight
  • Gloss finish tends to attract fingerprints
  • Very simple controls
  • Small drip tray

This is an attractive little coffee maker with the same 1960s-influenced retro styling as many of Smeg's other products. It’s purely an espresso machine; it lets you choose between long (lungo) and regular shots, but these are the extent of your options. However, it would look great alongside the Smeg Mini Milk Frother, giving you a perfect little setup for making cappuccinos and lattes.

It’s available in black, white, and cream (different retailers stock different colors), all of which have a gloss finish and chrome accents. The black machine I tested looked very attractive, but I found that the shiny plastic chassis tended to attract fingerprints easily, and I had to keep a cloth on hand to keep it looking good.

Image 1 of 2

Water tank removed from Lavazza A Modo Mio Smeg coffee maker

The water tank feels solid, and has a sturdy lid to prevent leaks when carrying (Image credit: Future)
Image 2 of 2

Person inserting coffee pod into Lavazza A Modo Mio Smeg coffee maker

Lavazza's A Modo Mio pods are compostable, but only at special facilities (Image credit: Future)

The water tank is robust, and has a well-fitting lid that won’t slide off when the tank is full. That’s particularly helpful because the maximum fill line is only about half an inch from the top. It has a convenient handle, and the whole assembly slides easily onto the back of the machine.

The drip tray is only really large enough to accommodate espresso cups. While you can remove the main platform to fit a larger cup beneath (such as demi-tasse), a standard 300ml coffee mug will hang over the edge.

Used pod bin removed from Lavazza A Modo Mio Smeg coffee maker

Used pods are dispensed into a bin, which you can access by removing a drawer behind the drip tray (Image credit: Future)

Used capsules drop into a container that’s accessed by pulling out a drawer on the front of the machine, and which has an internal drip tray so the pods can dry (although I recommend always emptying used capsules at the end of each day for hygiene, washing out the drawer, and allowing it to air-dry overnight).

  • Design score: 4/5

Lavazza A Modo Mio Smeg: performance

  • Very simple to use
  • Pump is especially quiet
  • Espresso tastes rounded and well-extracted
  • No flavored coffee capsules available

The Lavazza A Modo Mio Smeg is exceptionally simple to use, even for a capsule espresso machine. The first time you use it, you’re instructed to wash out the water tank, place a cup under the dispenser, and run the "lungo" program with no pod inserted to thoroughly rinse the interior components with hot water. Continue doing this until the tank is empty, and the machine will be ready to use.

Lift up the chrome-colored lid and you’ll find a slot to insert your A Modo Mio capsule. It takes a little effort to push the lid back down afterwards – the machine uses this force to pierce the pod about 22 times – but you can use your whole hand to apply the necessary pressure.

Image 1 of 2

Lavazza A Modo Mio Smeg coffee maker dispensing espresso into cup

The A Modo Mio Smeg coffee maker can dispense espresso in two sizes: standard and lungo (Image credit: Future)
Image 2 of 2

Cup placed on Lavazza A Modo Mio Smeg coffee maker drip tray

Although you can remove the drip tray platform to accommodate a larger cup, there's not enough room for a standard sized mug (Image credit: Future)

Capsule coffee machines are rarely loud, but the Lavazza A Modo Mio Smeg is quieter than most. Measured with a decibel meter, it briefly reached a maximum of 70dB during brewing – about the same as a hairdryer – but was only around 50dB throughout the whole brewing process.

Once you’re done, rinse the dispenser again without a capsule to remove residue from the dispenser.

During my tests, the espresso didn’t have as much crema as you might get from a Nespresso Vertuo pod, but the flavor from Lavazza’s capsules was considerably better; it tasted more rounded and balanced. I tested two different arabica capsules of different strengths, and was very impressed by both.

Espresso made using Lavazza A Modo Mio Smeg coffee maker

(Image credit: Future)

Unlike some other coffee pods, A Modo Mio capsules aren’t available in different flavors and with sweeteners – but, personally, I don't think that's a bad thing. Instead, the capsules vary by roast, variety and terroir. This is a capsule machine for people who want good-tasting espresso quickly, and aren’t interested in added fruit, syrup, or spice flavorings. Whether that appeals to you is a matter of personal preference.

Lavazza A Modo Mio capsules are compostable, but you can't toss them in your home food waste. If you're in the UK, you should take them to a public Terracycle drop-off point. If there isn't a drop-off point nearby (they're mostly concentrated around south England and the Midlands), you can register to run one, but you can't have personal collection boxes sent to your home.

  • Performance score: 5/5

Should you buy the Lavazza A Modo Mio Smeg?

Lavazza A Modo Mio Smeg score card

Attribute

Notes

Score

Value

The machine itself is quite pricey, but the capsules are some of the cheapest around (and great quality, too).

4/5

Design

Stylish, compact, and easy to operate, but the gloss finish is prone to gathering fingerprints.

4/5

Performance

Produces excellent espresso quickly and quietly, and is a piece of cake to maintain.

5/5

Buy it if

You want good espresso, fast

If you like your coffee short and fast, this is the machine for you. It does one thing, and does it very well – and Lavazza's coffee pods are excellent.

You plan to keep it for a long time

This coffee maker costs more than your typical capsule espresso machine, but the pods are so affordable that they'll offset the difference over time.

Don't buy it if

You enjoy fun-flavored coffee

There's nothing wrong with preferring a pumpkin spice latte to a straight shot of espresso, but Lavazza's A Modo Mio pods are all about the beans, not added flavorings.

You need a cheap coffee maker

Smeg style doesn't come cheap, and this machine is considerably pricier than most capsule coffee makers. However, there are more affordable options in Lavazza's A Modo Mio series, if this one is outside your budget.

Lavazza A Modo Mio Smeg: also consider

If you're not sure whether the Lavazza A Modo Mio Smeg is the right coffee maker for you, here are two other options to consider:

De'Longhi Dedica Duo

If you're willing to consider moving from pods to freshly ground coffee, this smart little espresso machine is around the same price as the Lavazza A Modo Mio Smeg, and opens up a whole world of specialty coffee.

Read our full De'Longhi Dedica Duo review

Krups Nespresso Pixie

The tiny Pixie has held the top spot in our roundup of the best Nespresso machines for years, thanks to its balance of style and performance. Like the A Modo Mio it's purely an espresso machine, and it uses Nespresso Original pods, which are more affordable than Vertuo capsules.

Read our full Krups Nespresso Pixie review

How I tested the Lavazza A Moda Mio Smeg

I tested the Lavazza A Modo Mio Smeg coffee maker for two weeks, making at least two drinks every day using two different types of espresso pods. I followed the setup instructions in the manual, prepared each drink using fresh tap water, and rinsed the dispenser between brews. I emptied and washed out the machine's bin and drip tray at the end of each day, and allowed everything to air-dry overnight. I cleaned the exterior of the machine with a damp microfiber cloth.

For more details, see how we test, rate, and review products at TechRadar.

I’ve tested the cool and colorful Ninja BlendBOSS, and making silky smoothies has bever been so much fun
5:57 pm | January 14, 2026
Author: admin | Category: Computers Gadgets Home Juicers & Blenders Small Appliances | Tags: | Comments: Off

Ninja BlendBOSS Tumbler Blender: one-minute review

The Ninja BlendBOSS Tumbler Blender with 26oz Travel Tumbler is ideal for people who want to quickly make smoothies, iced coffee, and other frozen beverages on the go. Just put your ingredients into the tumbler, screw on the blade lid, screw the blade lid onto the 1,200-watt motor base, and press one of the four blend mode buttons. There are three intelligent preset programs: Smoothie, Ice Crush, and Blend. These modes combine pulsing, blending, and pausing so you don't have guess. Unscrew the tumbler and screw on the drinking lid, grab a straw if you like, and you're on your way.

All three of the removable parts (tumbler, blade, travel lid) are easy to clean and dishwasher-safe. The base, which stays stable on your counter with suction cups, doesn't need to be washed. Simply wipe with a damp cloth if spills happen.

The Ninja BlendBOSS Tumbler Blender is aesthetically pleasing, with four whimsical colorways. The travel tumbler resembles trendy water bottle styles.

Ninja BlendBOSS Tumbler Blender: price and availability

  • List price: $119.99 (about £90 / AU$180)
  • Not widely available outside the US

The Ninja BlendBOSS Tumbler Blender with 26oz Travel Tumbler is available at all major retailers in the US, both online and in brick-and-mortar stores. Find it at Ninja's own website or at Walmart, Target, Best Buy, Amazon, and many more. It comes in four fun colorways: Lavender Lemonade (purple and yellow, as seen in my photos), Blue Raspberry (light blue and seafoam green), Watermelon Bubblegum (sage green and pale pink), and Cyberspace (gray and steel blue). It retails for $119.99 (about £90 / AU$180)

It's not widely available outside the US at the time of writing, though you may be able to find it imported via Amazon Marketplace.

  • Value score: 4/5
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Making a banana smoothie with Ninja BlendBOSS Tumbler Blender

(Image credit: Karen Freeman / Future)
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Making a banana smoothie with Ninja BlendBOSS Tumbler Blender

(Image credit: Karen Freeman / Future)
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Making a banana smoothie with Ninja BlendBOSS Tumbler Blender

(Image credit: Karen Freeman / Future)
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Making a banana smoothie with Ninja BlendBOSS Tumbler Blender

(Image credit: Karen Freeman / Future)
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Making a banana smoothie with Ninja BlendBOSS Tumbler Blender

(Image credit: Karen Freeman / Future)
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Making a banana smoothie with Ninja BlendBOSS Tumbler Blender

(Image credit: Karen Freeman / Future)

Ninja BlendBOSS Tumbler Blender: specifications

Price

$119.99

Blending functions

Three intelligent programs blend automatically: Smoothie, Ice Crush, and Blend. A fourth button, Pulse, lets you choose.

Size

7.2 in L x 6.69 in W x 12.91 in H

Container material

Plastic

Container included

26-ounce travel tumbler

Color options

Lavender Lemonade (purple and yellow, as seen in my photos), Blue Raspberry (light blue and seafoam green), Watermelon Bubblegum (sage green and pale pink), and Cyberspace (gray and steel blue)

Ninja BlendBOSS Tumbler Blender: design and features

  • Blend directly into the travel tumbler
  • Four blending modes (three are automatic)
  • 1,200-watt motor

Ninja BlendBOSS Tumbler Blender with 26oz Travel Tumbler is well-designed for its purpose. The powerful 1200-watt motor quickly and easily blends ice and frozen fruit for smoothies, iced coffee, and other frozen beverages to go. The tumbler is large but the tapered base fits into most cars' cupholders.

The tumbler has measurement markings on it, so you can combine your ingredients directly into it. The six-ounce marking also serves as the minimum liquid marking, since you must use at least six ounces of liquid in order for the BlendBOSS to blend properly. There is also a max fill line near the top, at the 24-ounce mark. This gives you space at the top to add whipped cream or other toppings after you're done blending.

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Ninja BlendBOSS™ Tumbler Blender with 26oz Travel Tumbler making a cherry smoothie

(Image credit: Karen Freeman / Future)
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Ninja BlendBOSS™ Tumbler Blender with 26oz Travel Tumbler making a cherry smoothie

(Image credit: Karen Freeman / Future)
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Ninja BlendBOSS™ Tumbler Blender with 26oz Travel Tumbler making a cherry smoothie

(Image credit: Karen Freeman / Future)

There are four buttons on the base of the Ninja BlendBOSS Tumbler Blender. Three of them are automatic settings that use a combination of pulses and pauses to take the guesswork out of blending. The first button, Blend IQ, runs for 60 seconds. The second, Smoothie IQ, runs for 55 seconds. Ice Crush IQ is the third button, and it goes for 50 seconds. The fourth button, Pulse, is the only manual button. Any blender can be pretty loud, though this one isn't louder than others I've used. The IQ buttons allow you to walk away while your treat is blending, so you don't even have to listen to it up close.

The base is pretty big and heavy for a tumbler blender, probably due to its 1200-watt motor. It does have two suction cups on the bottom to keep it from moving around when you blend. The blade lid and the travel lid both screw on securely and easily. The travel/chug lid has a button so you can pop it open, revealing the chug opening. When you close it, the lid is leak-proof.

I did have one issue with the chug lid. If you do indeed chug directly from the lid (as opposed to using a straw), the top of the lid falls down on your head when you're taking your last sips. I found that pretty annoying, and found myself either using a straw or removing the lid entirely and just drinking directly from the tumbler.

  • Design score: 4.5/5

Ninja BlendBOSS Tumbler Blender: performance

I made a number of different recipes to test out the Ninja BlendBOSS Tumbler Blender, including several different smoothies, pancake batter, pasta sauce, and an iced drink. In every case, the blender was super fast and blended everything completely. Even the spinach in one of my smoothies was blended so fine that I couldn't see or taste the spinach at all. The ice in my iced lemonade was essentially turned to a slushy snow. I did try blending smoothies with less than the recommended amount (six ounces) of liquid, and ended up having to stop the blender, take off the blending lid, and stir around the contents. Everything else I made (with the proper amount of liquid) blended just perfectly without my having to do anything besides press the start button.

In the images below, I was making a smoothie with frozen blueberries and spinach, and it came out perfectly smooth. There were no chunks of blueberry skin or spinach.

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Ninja BlendBOSS™ Tumbler Blender with 26oz Travel Tumbler making banana, blueberry, and spinach smoothie

(Image credit: Karen Freeman / Future)
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Ninja BlendBOSS™ Tumbler Blender with 26oz Travel Tumbler making banana, blueberry, and spinach smoothie

(Image credit: Karen Freeman / Future)
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Ninja BlendBOSS™ Tumbler Blender with 26oz Travel Tumbler making banana, blueberry, and spinach smoothie

(Image credit: Karen Freeman / Future)
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Ninja BlendBOSS™ Tumbler Blender with 26oz Travel Tumbler making banana, blueberry, and spinach smoothie

(Image credit: Karen Freeman / Future)
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Ninja BlendBOSS™ Tumbler Blender with 26oz Travel Tumbler making banana, blueberry, and spinach smoothie

(Image credit: Karen Freeman / Future)

Below are photos of the iced lemonade I made. The BlendBOSS turned ice into snow incredibly quickly and thoroughly.

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Ninja BlendBOSS™ Tumbler Blender with 26oz Travel Tumbler making iced lemonade

(Image credit: Karen Freeman / Future)
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Ninja BlendBOSS™ Tumbler Blender with 26oz Travel Tumbler making iced lemonade

(Image credit: Karen Freeman / Future)
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Ninja BlendBOSS™ Tumbler Blender with 26oz Travel Tumbler making iced lemonade

(Image credit: Karen Freeman / Future)
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Ninja BlendBOSS™ Tumbler Blender with 26oz Travel Tumbler making iced lemonade

(Image credit: Karen Freeman / Future)

I got a little creative below, making a protein pancake batter from cottage cheese, eggs, and oats. The result was a smooth liquid with no chunks at all.

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Ninja BlendBOSS™ Tumbler Blender with 26oz Travel Tumbler making pancake batter

(Image credit: Karen Freeman / Future)
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Ninja BlendBOSS™ Tumbler Blender with 26oz Travel Tumbler making pancake batter

(Image credit: Karen Freeman / Future)
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Ninja BlendBOSS™ Tumbler Blender with 26oz Travel Tumbler making pancake batter

(Image credit: Karen Freeman / Future)

Next I made some pasta sauce. Here I blended a can of whole tomatoes and cottage cheese. I didn't even do a whole blend cycle, a few seconds was all it took to turn that into sauce. I poured the contents of the blender into a pot I had on the stove with olive oil and browned garlic.

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Ninja BlendBOSS™ Tumbler Blender with 26oz Travel Tumbler making pasta sauce

(Image credit: Karen Freeman / Future)
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Ninja BlendBOSS™ Tumbler Blender with 26oz Travel Tumbler making pasta sauce

(Image credit: Karen Freeman / Future)
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Ninja BlendBOSS™ Tumbler Blender with 26oz Travel Tumbler making pasta sauce

(Image credit: Karen Freeman / Future)
  • Performance score: 5/5

Should you buy the Ninja BlendBOSS Tumbler Blender?

Ninja BlendBOSS Tumbler Blender report card

Attributes

Notes

Rating

Value

This is fairly expensive for a tumbler blender, but it's also pretty powerful.

4/5

Design

This is a cute blender; it all works well except for the chug lid dropping on my nose when chugging.

4.5/5

Performance

Blending performance was excellent, whether using the automatic IQ buttons or the manual pulse button.

5/5

Overall

This small but powerful blender will fill just about all of your blending needs as long as you use enough liquid.

4.5/5

Buy it if

You want to make smoothies and iced beverages on the go

Iced coffee, smoothies, protein drinks, or other frozen beverages are made perfectly smooth and ready to go in seconds. The included tumbler is cute, holds up to 26 ounces of liquid, and fits into most cars' cupholders.

You want to make other blended foods too

Make sauces, soups, batters, salad dressing, and more. As long as you put in enough liquid (about 6 ounces), this blender can handle it.

You want easy cleanup

Cleaning up couldn't be easier. Blend a drop of liquid detergent and water to quickly hand wash the tumbler, blade lid, and chug lid. Or, put all three in the dishwasher if you prefer. A quick swipe with a damp cloth is all you need for the base.

Don't buy it if

You like super thick smoothies

Since this is a gravity blender, you do need sufficient liquid. I tried using less and had to stop mid-cycle to scrape down the sides. It did work, but it's pretty messy to stop in the middle like that. You definitely want to use more liquid.

You like to chug directly from the travel lid

When I tried that, the flap kept falling on my nose, which was annoying. That's a problem easily solved by using a straw or just removing the lid entirely. But if you're a dedicated chugger, it's something to keep in mind.

You don't need that much power

There are definitely less powerful portable blenders you can buy that are substantially smaller and cheaper. If you're mixing protein powder or making mostly liquid drinks with just a little ice, save your money and get one of those. The BlendBOSS will be more blender than you need.

Ninja BlendBOSS Tumbler Blender: also consider

If you're not sure about the Ninja BlendBOSS Tumbler Blender, here are some other blenders you might like

Vitamix A3500

Vitamix has been my own blender of choice for over a decade. If you need power, you need a Vitamix. Love a thick, chunky smoothie with no liquid at all? A Vitamix can handle it.

Read our review of the Vitamix A3500

Nutribullet Magic Bullet Portable Blender

If you don't need as much power as the BlendBOSS has to offer, this cheap and cheerful little portable blender will be enough for you. Plus the whole thing is portable and rechargeable.

Read our review of the Nutribullet Magic Bullet Portable Blender View Deal

How I tested the Ninja BlendBOSS Tumbler Blender

  • I tested all four blender buttons
  • I used it for weeks to make a variety of beverages and foods
  • I cleaned it after every use

I made a variety of smoothies, all of them with the minimum amount of liquid and heavy on the frozen fruit and ice. I made a cherry-yogurt-almond milk smoothie, a banana-yogurt-almond milk smoothie that included a number of powders and seeds, and a banana-blueberry-spinach-hemp seed smoothie. I made an iced lemonade beverage that included ice, water, and lemon balsamic vinegar. I made protein pancake batter with equal parts egg whites, cottage cheese, and dry oatmeal. I made pasta sauce with cottage cheese and canned whole tomatoes (added to browned garlic and olive oil on the stove.) Everything I made blended perfectly smooth with no evidence of seeds or skins.

Read more about how we test.

The Honeywell Home X2S Smart Thermostat is smart heating made simple
7:00 pm | January 11, 2026
Author: admin | Category: Computers Gadgets Home Smart Home Smart Thermostats | Comments: Off

The Honeywell Home X2S Smart Thermostat is an easy-to-use Energy Star certified thermostat. It’s not the most sleek or modern-looking device, but it does the job.

The Honeywell Home X2S Smart Thermostat is compatible with up to 2 heat/2 cool conventional, up to 2 heat/1 cool heat pump with electric backup, hot water heat, forced air (gas, oil, or electric.) It isn't compatible with electric baseboard heat (120-240V).

This thermostat comes with detailed installation instructions, but we found it beyond us and ended up hiring a professional to do it. Installation does require a C wire, though Honeywell Home does sell an adaptor kit if your home lacks one. Once the thermostat was physically installed in my home, I had no trouble at all setting it up with the app and getting it working. And it works beautifully.

You’ll need to download the First Alert by Resideo app initially to set up your schedule. You can create a 5-1-1 day cycle, 5-2 day cycle, 7-day cycle, or set up one-week increments. You can also create a vacation schedule, even after you've left. Toggle on the Auto Away feature to allow the thermostat to update automatically based on your phone's location. You can also have the app send you filter change reminders. The First Alert app can also control any of their other home devices you may own, such as CO2/smoke alarms, security cameras, air quality filters, water leak sensors, and more.

Honeywell Home X2S Smart Thermostat First Alert app setup

(Image credit: Future)

Don't like using a separate app? You can also control the thermostat with your ecosystem of choice, Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, or Apple HomeKit (Matter certified.) I'm an Apple user, and I did not find that Siri voice control worked properly. However, Control Center worked just fine.

You can also manage the thermostat the old-fashioned way, toggling through the menu with the six buttons next to the display.

Honeywell Home X2S Smart Thermostat finger on controls

(Image credit: Karen Freeman / Future)

Honeywell Home X2S Smart Thermostat: Price and availability

The Honeywell Home X2S Smart Thermostat was announced at CES in January 2025 and was released for sale in the US and Canada in the spring of 2025. As of this writing, it retails for $79.99 in the US but isn’t for sale yet outside of North America. You can find it at Amazon, Walmart, and tons of other major retailers online and in brick and mortar stores.

This model, otherwise known as RTH2CWF/U X2S Smart Thermostat, replaces Honeywell Home’s RTH6580 WiFi 7-day Programmable Thermostat, which retailed for a similar price. It’s not as fancy-looking as some of the models you’ll find on our roundup of the best smart thermostats, but it gets the job done.

Honeywell Home X2S Smart Thermostat display off

(Image credit: Karen Freeman / Future)

Honeywell Home X2S Smart Thermostat: Design

Honeywell Home X2S Smart Thermostat comes in just one colorway. Honeywell Home calls it “white,” but I’d call it dove gray and off-white to be more specific. It measures 3.44 in/87 mm high, 5.13 in/130 mm wide, and 1.188 in/29.5 mm deep. It has a basic black-on-gray LCD display that lights up when you press a button. When dormant, the thermostat screen shows Mode, Current Temperature, Set Temperature, Status Display, Fan, and Time. It’s much easier to read when lit up, but it can be read when dormant as well.

The thermostat comes with detailed directions, so you can install it yourself if you’re fairly handy. I ended up calling a professional to install it, since I was unable to do it myself and I was having some other work done as well. It didn’t take the professional long at all. Installation does require a C-wire (24 VAC), which my home didn’t have. Honeywell Home does sell an adapter kit in case your home doesn’t have this wire. You also need to have WiFi 2.4 or 5GHz (802.11 b/g/n) in order for the smart features to work properly. Once you install Honeywell Home’s UWP wall plate, future upgrades will be easier, since you can just change the thermostat without redoing all of the wiring.

Honeywell Home X2S Smart Thermostat side view

(Image credit: Karen Freeman / Future)

The Honeywell Home X2S Smart Thermostat is Energy Star certified. You’ll need to download Resideo’s First Alert app on your smartphone in order to set up the thermostat. It’s also the easiest way to control the thermostat. But once you’ve set it up, you can control it manually on the thermostat itself, or with Amazon Alexa, Apple Home, or Google Assistant. The thermostat is Matter-certified.

The thermostat is compatible with up to 2 heat/2 cool conventional, up to 2 heat/1 cool heat pump with electric backup, hot water heat, forced air (gas, oil, or electric.) It does not work with electric baseboard heat (120-240V).

You don’t need to waste money heating or cooling your home unnecessarily when you’re away. Set up the thermostat’s schedule for a 5-1-1 day cycle, 5-2 day cycle, 7-day cycle, or one-week increments. You can also set up a vacation schedule. Toggle on the Auto Away feature to allow the thermostat to update based on your location.

Honeywell Home X2S Smart Thermostat auto away in menu

(Image credit: Karen Freeman / Future)

Honeywell Home X2S Smart Thermostat: Performance

The Honeywell Home X2S Smart Thermostat was only released months ago, but it looks like something from an earlier time. It’s not unattractive, but it doesn’t look particularly modern either. You can fully operate with the buttons just like you could in the 'old days', but you’ll have to go through a lot of menus to do so. It’s easier just to operate it within the app.

Honeywell Home X2S Smart Thermostat First Alert app screenshots

(Image credit: Future)

I hate to put yet another app on my iPhone, but this one, First Alert by Resideo, is important for the best experience with the Honeywell Home X2S Smart Thermostat. I did try controlling it from Control Center on my iPhone, but features are limited there. I also tried voice commands to Siri, but it didn’t work well. The thermostat definitely 'heard' me and changed the temperature, but it did not go to the temperature I said.

Using the First Alert app, the Honeywell Home X2S Smart Thermostat works great. I set it to heat my home to 68°F/20°C during the day and 63°F/17°C at night. Since my husband and I both often work from home, I didn’t set a daytime “away” temperature, though I could. I did take a nine-day vacation and set up a special vacation schedule, which worked beautifully. I checked multiple times on my vacation to make sure my home was only heated enough to avoid the pipes freezing. My home was comfortably warm when I returned on a particularly cold January day.

Honeywell Home X2S Smart Thermostat in Control Center on iPhone

(Image credit: Future)

The Honeywell Home X2S Smart Thermostat is compatible with Apple HomeKit (Matter enabled), Google Assistant, and Amazon Alexa. The First Alert app makes it easy to change the temperature, set up a daily/weekly schedule, turn your fan on and off, switch from heat to cool, and create vacation settings. You can also track your HVAC runtime in the app. You can also run other First Alert products via the app, such as air filters, smoke/CO2 alarms, security cameras, and water leak/freeze detectors.

I found that the Honeywell Home X2S Smart Thermostat worked quite well in heating my home to my specifications. I like being able to set the schedule to my precise daily needs, and being able to set up vacation mode even while already away on vacation. I feel like there is a lot less wasted HVAC use, as the thermostat makes it easy to set up a tailored schedule.

Should you buy the Honeywell Home X2S Smart Thermostat?

Buy it if

You want a reasonably-priced smart thermostat

While not the cheapest option on the market, there are certainly pricier ones out there. You can find this one well under the retail price if you shop around.View Deal

You only want to pay to heat and cool your home when you’re in it

Set up granular daily and weekly controls tailored to your schedule. Plus you can set up Auto Away so the thermostat updates based on your phone’s location and Vacation Settings as needed.View Deal

You want a flexible smart thermostat

The First Alert app is very easy to use, but you can also control the thermostat with your home’s ecosystem of choice. You can also go old school and use the buttons on the thermostat itself.View Deal

Don't buy it if

You don’t want to deal with another app

Yes, you do have to install the First Alert by Resideo app to get the thermostat set up. However, you could delete it later and just use your home’s ecosystem assistant or the buttons to control it.View Deal

You’re not handy and don’t want to pay a pro to install it

My husband is pretty handy (I’m not) but we ended up having to pay a pro to install the thermostat. Your mileage may vary.View Deal

You prefer to use voice activation

I had no trouble using Control Center on my iPhone to control the thermostat, but Siri’s voice activation didn’t work for me.View Deal

Honeywell Home X2S Smart Thermostat: alternatives to consider

If you're in the market for a smart thermostat and you're not sure Honeywell Home X2S Smart Thermostat is the one, here are some others you might consider checking out.

Google Nest Learning Thermostat (Gen 4)

This one topped our Best Smart Thermostat list due to its great looks, automatic heating schedule creation, and the fact that it compensates for outdoor temperature. It doesn’t require a C wire, which may make installation easier. However, it’s not compatible with Apple HomeKit.

Read our full review: Google Nest Learning Thermostat (Gen 4)View Deal

Hive Thermostat (2024)

This one is compatible with Alexa, Google Home, and Apple HomeKit. You can also use the Hive app if you don’t have any of them. The thermostat has a clear touchscreen display instead of buttons and it makes home heating more efficient.

Read our review: Hive Thermostat (2024)View Deal

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Honeywell Home X2S Smart Thermostat menu items

(Image credit: Karen Freeman / Future)
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Honeywell Home X2S Smart Thermostat menu items

(Image credit: Karen Freeman / Future)
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Honeywell Home X2S Smart Thermostat menu items

(Image credit: Karen Freeman / Future)
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Honeywell Home X2S Smart Thermostat menu items

(Image credit: Karen Freeman / Future)
The Ninja Crispi Pro 6-in-1 Glass Countertop Air Fryer is super-sized for families and entertaining
7:20 pm | December 31, 2025
Author: admin | Category: Air Fryers Computers Gadgets Home Small Appliances | Comments: Off

Ninja Crispi Pro: one-minute review

The Ninja Crispi Pro 6-in-1 Glass Countertop Air Fryer is the plus-sized version of the Ninja Crispi 4-in-1 Portable Glass Air Fryer Cooking System. Instead a traditional drawer-style air fryer, the Ninja Crispi Pro is a stand to which you can attach different-sized glass cooking containers. Since the glass containers are separate from the frying mechanism, they can be used for both storing and serving in addition to cooking. The handles stay cool so they can go directly from the fryer to the table without potholders or trivets. Lids are included for storing your food in the glass containers. The Ninja Crispi Pro 6-in-1 Glass Countertop Air Fryer comes with two cooking containers, the small one has a 2.5-quart capacity and the large one holds six quarts and can even be used to roast up to a 7.5-pound chicken. There is also a medium four-quart size which is sold separately.

Six cooking modes let you make a variety of dishes: Max Crisp, Air Fry, Bake/Proof, Roast, Recrisp, and Dehydrate. Select your mode, temperature, and cook time as desired. Since the containers are glass and there is a light bulb inside, you can easily keep an eye on your food as it cooks. This is an easy-to-use, flexible air fryer, and all the food I made came out well. Note that with its multiple cooking containers, it does take up a good bit of storage space.

Ninja Crispi Pro: price and availability

  • List price: $279.99 (about £209 / AU$421)

The Ninja Crispi Pro 6-in-1 Glass Countertop Air Fryer is available at all major retailers both online and in brick-and-mortar stores such as Amazon, Target, Macy's, Best Buy, Ninja's own website, and more. Choose from four color options: Cyberspace (dark gray), Bone (off-white), Rose Quartz, and Ash Gray (light gray). The retail price is $279.99 USD and it comes with two cooking containers including crisping trays and storage lids: 2.5-quart and 6-quart.

  • Value score: 4/5

Ninja Crispi Pro: specifications

Price

$279.99

Cooking functions:

Max Crisp, Air Fry, Bake/Proof, Roast, Recrisp, and Dehydrate

Size:

11.8 in L x 12.2 in W x 11.0 in H

Container material:

Glass

Containers included:

6-quart, 2.5-quart

Color options:

Cyberspace (dark gray), Bone (off-white), Rose Quartz, and Ash Gray (light gray)

Ninja Crispi Pro: design and features

  • Small and large cooking containers go from air fryer to table to fridge
  • Six cooking functions
  • Interior light

The Ninja Crispi Pro 6-in-1 Glass Countertop Air Fryer has a modular base that sits on the counter and two interchangeable glass cooking dishes, 2.5-quart and 6-quart. Ninja also makes a 4-quart medium size, but that will be sold separately. The cooking dishes have stay-cool handles so they can go right from the fryer to the table. Lids are also included so you can store your leftovers. The glass cooking containers, including the metal crisper plates and storage lids, can be washed in the dishwasher or by hand if you prefer.

Ninja Crispi Pro 6-in-1 Glass Countertop Air Fryer, all parts

(Image credit: Karen Freeman / Future)

The air fryer itself has a modular base, which can be moved up or down depending on which glass cooking container you'll be using. Place the base at the highest notch to use the small container or at the bottom notch for the large container. There is a middle notch for the medium cooking container (not included.)

Ninja Crispi Pro 6-in-1 Glass Countertop Air Fryer smaller dish in place

(Image credit: Karen Freeman / Future)

Once you've adjusted your modular base to the correct height, put your food on the crisper plate within the glass cooking dish and slide the dish onto the base. This can be a bit fiddly, but once you get used to doing it, muscle memory kicks in.

The controls are quite intuitive. Power on the air fryer and turn the knob to select your cooking mode: Max Crisp, Air Fry, Bake/Proof, Roast, Recrisp, or Dehydrate. Tap the temp button and turn the dial to adjust the temperature. Tap the time button and turn the dial to adjust the time. Press the center button to start cooking. Illuminate your food at any time by pressing the button with the light bulb icon.

Ninja Crispi Pro 6-in-1 Countertop Glass Air Fryer all parts flat lay

(Image credit: Karen Freeman / Future)

I wouldn't say the Ninja Crispi Pro 6-in-1 Countertop Glass Air Fryer is the prettiest appliance I've ever seen; air fryers rarely are. It does take up a bit of counter space. You could store it away when not in use, but it's pretty heavy. The bottom is weighted to counterbalance the cooking mechanism at the top, making it difficult to take in and out for frequent use. You could keep one container in the air fryer on the counter and store the other away to minimize how much counter space it takes up, but either way, it's a space commitment.

Still, the Ninja Crispi Pro 6-in-1 Countertop Glass Air Fryer is well-designed for maximum flexibility with its extra-large cooking container, particularly for people with larger families or who entertain frequently. The smaller container is perfect for snacks and smaller portions. Its six cooking functions cover all the bases.

  • Design score: 4.5/5

Ninja Crispi Pro: performance

I made a dozen different foods, utilizing all of the different cooking modes, and everything I made came out delicious! As with any air fryer, you'll want to flip or rotate your food partway through cooking. And I noticed that using a small amount of oil or cooking spray made for better results; without it the food was a little bit dry.

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Food made in the Ninja Crispi Pro 6-in-1 Countertop Glass Air Fryer on Air Fry mode

(Image credit: Karen Freeman / Future)
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Food made in the Ninja Crispi Pro 6-in-1 Countertop Glass Air Fryer on Air Fry mode

(Image credit: Karen Freeman / Future)
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Food made in the Ninja Crispi Pro 6-in-1 Countertop Glass Air Fryer on Air Fry mode

(Image credit: Karen Freeman / Future)
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Food made in the Ninja Crispi Pro 6-in-1 Countertop Glass Air Fryer on Air Fry mode

(Image credit: Karen Freeman / Future)
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Food made in the Ninja Crispi Pro 6-in-1 Countertop Glass Air Fryer on Air Fry mode

(Image credit: Karen Freeman / Future)
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Food made in the Ninja Crispi Pro 6-in-1 Countertop Glass Air Fryer on Air Fry mode

(Image credit: Karen Freeman / Future)
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Food made in Ninja Crispi Pro 6-in-1 Countertop Glass Air Fryer

(Image credit: Karen Freeman / Future)

I used Air Fry mode to make: potato wedges from scratch, frozen egg bites, frozen veggie burger, tofu from scratch, frozen french fries, fresh vegetables, and frozen "air fryer" Mexican corn. Everything came out well, crispy on the outside and tender inside. I'd actually never made tofu from scratch before and I was surprised how easy and delicious it was!

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Food made in roast mode in Ninja Crispi Pro 6-in-1 Countertop Glass Air Fryer

(Image credit: Karen Freeman / Future)
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Food made in roast mode in Ninja Crispi Pro 6-in-1 Countertop Glass Air Fryer

(Image credit: Karen Freeman / Future)
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Food made in roast mode in Ninja Crispi Pro 6-in-1 Countertop Glass Air Fryer

(Image credit: Karen Freeman / Future)
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Food made in roast mode in Ninja Crispi Pro 6-in-1 Countertop Glass Air Fryer

(Image credit: Karen Freeman / Future)
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Food made in roast mode in Ninja Crispi Pro 6-in-1 Countertop Glass Air Fryer

(Image credit: Karen Freeman / Future)

Roast mode worked beautifully for the Brussels sprouts and mixed peppers I made. Perfectly browned, tender, and delicious. As a vegetarian, I didn't make one, but the 6-quart container allows you to roast a whole chicken of up to 7.5 pounds.

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Ninja Crispi Pro 6-in-1 Countertop Glass Air Fryer bake mode bagel

(Image credit: Karen Freeman / Future)
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Ninja Crispi Pro 6-in-1 Countertop Glass Air Fryer bake mode bagel

(Image credit: Karen Freeman / Future)

I made a simple two-ingredient "bagel" (greek yogurt plus self-rising flour, and, ok, Everything Bagel seasoning makes three ingredients) in Bake mode, and it came out perfectly. Such a simple and delightful treat made quickly in the Ninja Crispi Pro.

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Ninja Crispi Pro 6-in-1 Countertop Glass Air Fryer foods made in Max Crisp mode

(Image credit: Karen Freeman / Future)
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Ninja Crispi Pro 6-in-1 Countertop Glass Air Fryer foods made in Max Crisp mode

(Image credit: Karen Freeman / Future)
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Ninja Crispi Pro 6-in-1 Countertop Glass Air Fryer foods made in Max Crisp mode

(Image credit: Karen Freeman / Future)

Max Crisp mode gives you the highest temperature range, which is great for vegetables if you like them blackened as I do. The zucchini and tomatoes I made came out great. The sweet potatoes look frightening but they were deliciously sweet and tender inside!

Ninja Crispi Pro 6-in-1 Countertop Glass Air Fryer apple chips made in Dehydrate mode

(Image credit: Karen Freeman / Future)

I used Dehydrate mode to make dried fruit for the first time. It took a full seven hours on a low temperature, but it worked. The apple chips had a leathery rather than crispy texture, but they tasted good.

Ninja Crispi Pro 6-in-1 Countertop Glass Air Fryer in dishwasher

(Image credit: Karen Freeman / Future)

Cleanup is pretty easy. The air fryer mechanism doesn't really need to be cleaned other than wiping it down with a cloth occasionally, and it cannot contact water. The glass cooking dishes, metal crisping plates, and plastic lids can be easily washed by hand or in the dishwasher. Sometimes the spatter gets really baked on, requiring some serious elbow grease to remove. I'd imagine this is the case for all air fryers, it's just that you can't see all the spatters in a dark metal cooking drawer. I actually feel better knowing my cooking container is getting completely clean, so it's worth the extra scrubbing to keep it pristine.

  • Performance score: 5/5

Should you buy the Ninja Crispi Pro?

Ninja Crispi Pro 6-in-1 Glass Countertop Air Fryer report card

Attributes

Notes

Rating

Value

This is a pretty expensive air fryer, though if you want that large capacity flexible-use glass cooking dish, it's worth it.

4/5

Design

Designed for maximum flexibility rather than looks, function wins over form.

4.5/5

Performance

Performance was great overall, food was generally crispy yet tender.

5/5

Overall

The air fryer-to-table-to-fridge glass cooking containers plus the ability to cook a 7.5-pound whole chicken make this stand out from the air fryer crowd.

4.5/5

Buy it if

You need to feed a crowd sometimes

You can make up to a 7.5-pound whole chicken or a whole lot of french fries at once in the large 6-quart capacity cooking container. Use the smaller container for smaller portions.

You want to make a variety of foods

Six cooking modes, each of which allows for a range of times and temperatures, mean you can make just about anything. You can even make dried fruit or meat jerky with the more unusual Dehydrate mode that most air fryers lack.

You want a totally removable, functional, and washable cooking container

The glass cooking containers can be washed in the dishwasher or by hand so you know they are totally clean. The plastic handles allow you to comfortably handle the hot containers directly from the air fryer and place them right on the table without potholders or trivets. The included lids let you store leftovers in them.

Don't buy it if

You lack counter or storage space

The Ninja Crispi Pro 6-in-1 Glass Countertop Air Fryer is pretty large and heavy, so it won't be easy to put away and take out for every use. It comes with two glass cooking containers, and they don't nest, so you'll need plenty of space to store them.

You want the cheapest possible no frills air fryer

This is a pricey one, you're paying for the flexible glass cooking containers, multiple cook modes, and extra large capacity. You can find much cheaper options that air fry simply and efficiently without all of the extra features.

You prefer an all-in-one drawer-style or toaster-oven-style air fryer

There are plenty of other options if the glass container style doesn't appeal to you. The drawer-style air fryers tend to be cheaper and a toaster oven/air fryer combo could mean one less appliance in your kitchen.

Ninja Crispi Pro: also consider

If you're not sure about the Ninja Crispi Pro 6-in-1 Glass Countertop Air Fryer, here are some other options to consider ...

Ninja Double Oven Air Fryer

If you prefer a toaster over that doubles as an air fryer, check out the Ninja Double Oven Air Fryer. You can actually cook two separate dishes at the same time using two different cook modes. This multi-purpose champ maximizes your countertop space.

Read our full Ninja Double Oven Air Fryer review

Kalorik Vivid Touch Touchscreen Air Fryer

More than just a gimmick, this easy-to-use air fryer's touchscreen takes the guesswork out of air frying and countertop cooking. Just a few taps on the screen and you'll have perfectly crisped food in minutes.

Read my full Kalorik Vivid Touch Touchscreen Air Fryer reviewView Deal

Ninja Crispi 4-in-1 Portable Glass Air Fryer Cooking System

If you love the idea of the Ninja Crispi Pro 6-in-1 Glass Countertop Air Fryer but it's bigger than what you really need, check out the original, smaller version. It's actually intended to be portable, so you could even take it with you to potlucks or to the office. This one made our list of the best air fryers.

Check out my full Ninja Crispi review

How I tested the Ninja Crispi Pro

  • I tested the various cooking modes multiple times
  • I used it for weeks to prepare a variety of food items
  • I cleaned it after every use

I love to eat and I do try to eat healthy even though I don't particularly enjoy cooking. I prepare the majority of my meals at home rather than getting takeout. So, I'm always looking for quicker ways to make healthy and delicious food. I tested the Ninja Crispi Pro 6-in-1 Glass Countertop Air Fryer by making the following foods: lots of different fresh veggies using different cook modes, frozen egg bites, frozen french fries, fresh french fries from scratch, bagel from scratch, marinated tofu, frozen Mexican corn, frozen veggie burger patty, baked sweet potatoes, and dehydrated apple chips.

Read more about how we test.

I tested the Cuisinart FlexPrep 1.1L – a budget-friendly but incredibly powerful food processor
5:00 pm | December 30, 2025
Author: admin | Category: Computers Gadgets Home Small Appliances | Tags: , | Comments: Off

Cuisinart FlexPrep 1.1L Food Processor: one-minute review

Cuisinart is a renowned brand in the kitchen appliance space, and the Cuisinart FlexPrep 1.1L Food Processor proves why. This food processor appliance offers a 1.1L capacity, providing a reasonable amount of space for everyday use without occupying a large amount of storage space. But don’t let its compact size fool you, this is a powerhouse of an appliance.

The FlexPrep 1.1L Food Processor comes with three attachments: a reversible shredding disc (offering fine or medium shredding/grating), a whipping disc for creams, and a sharp chopping blade, which can also be used to purée and emulsify foods or for tasks such as combining pastry. Shredding and chopping take mere seconds, depending on the food type, while this food processor also saves time (and energy) on more tedious tasks, including whipping double cream or blending nuts into butter. We found minimal food to be left unprocessed at the end, or stuck under the disc/blade. Handwashing was fairly easy, too, especially given that the attachments and bowl are dishwasher safe.

Breadcrumbs and vegetables chopped and shredded using Cuisinart Flexprep 1.1L food processor

(Image credit: Future)

However, results aren’t always even. While this is largely a minor issue, with carrot or courgette gratings being of varied sizes (though still grated), it was more apparent with a couple of tests/ We found that chopping almonds resulted in some being left whole, while others were almost a powder, while puréeing the almonds into a butter results in half of the nuts (those on the bottom half) being more processed than the other.

The power this food processor packs seems to be part of the issue, as its speed can let down its precision at times. You have little control over this power, too, as the FlexPrep 1.1L Food Processor only comes with two main functions: on and pulse. Pulse gives you a bit more control, but we’d have loved to have had the option to increase or decrease the power level as needed. We’d also have liked the inclusion of a slicing attachment, which we’ve seen with similar products, such as the Magimix 4200XL.

These issues are relatively minor, however, and the Cuisinart FlexPrep 1.1L Food Processor is overall a superb kitchen appliance. And, with a £70 price tag, you’d be hard pressed to find a food processor that offers as high quality for such good value.

Cuisinart FlexPrep 1.1L Food Processor: price and availability

  • £70 at Cuisinart UK or $89.95 for US model (FP-5)
  • Unavailable in Australia
  • Available at third-party retailers, including Amazon and Lakeland
  • Regular discounts can see it dropped to around £50

The Cuisinart FlexPrep 1.1L Food Processor (Model FP5U) is available in the UK for £69.99 at Cuisinart UK, while the US equivalent model (FP-5) is $89.95. Unfortunately, at the time of writing, this food processor isn’t available in Australia.

This places this food processor firmly in the budget range, and the quality on offer for that price tag is exceptional, especially considering that there are regular discounts on this appliance. It doesn’t offer the variety of functions we see with some of the premium products on our best food processors list, such as the Breville the Paradice 16 ($699.95 / £579.95 / AU$899) or Nutribullet Triple Prep System ($244.99 / £229.99 / AU$349.95), but it’s considerably more affordable.

So, if you want one of the food processors that does the basics well, you can’t go wrong with the Cuisinart FlexPrep 1.1L Food Processor. If you need a slightly larger capacity, but don’t want to fork out for a premium appliance, it’s worth considering the Cuisinart Easy Prep Pro FP8 food processor, priced at £125/ $99.95.

  • Value score: 5/5

Cuisinart FlexPrep 1.1L Food Processor: specifications

Review model

FP5U

Number of functions

2

Functions

On and pulse

Number of attachments

3

Attachments

Reversible shredding disc (fine shredding/medium shredding), whipping disc, and chopping blade

Smart control

No

Rated power

N/A

Capacity

1.1L work bowl

Dimensions

5.9in (D) x 13.3in (W) x 8.1in (H) / 150mm (D) x 338mm (W) x 206mm (H)

Dishwasher-safe

Yes (on top rack only)

Guarantee

3 years

Cuisinart FlexPrep 1.1L Food Processor: design

  • Storage hub for chopping blade
  • BladeLock system for safe handling
  • Compact size
  • No control over power
  • No slicing attachment

Out of the box, the Cuisinart FlexPrep 1.1L Food Processor comes with a compact, silver housing base, a 1.1L work bowl, a lid featuring a feed tube, a pusher for that tube, a stem adapter, a metal chopping blade, a reversible shredding disc (for fine and medium shredding), a whipping disc, and a storage hub for the blades. On the outside of the base are two black buttons: on and pulse/off.

What’s immediately striking is how compact the appliance is. As such, it doesn’t offer a huge capacity, but plenty for those preparing smaller batches of food. The appliance is fairly straightforward to assemble, with the work bowl locking into the base, and then your disc or blade locking into the accompanying stem adaptor, which is then locked into the work bowl. Cuisinart’s BladeLock system ensures the blade or disc remains locked in place when processing or pouring, offering an extra layer of safety. The lid then locks into the work bowl, with the pusher slipping easily (but tightly) into the lid’s food tube.

Cuisinart Flexprep 1.1L food processor

(Image credit: Future)

Our main issue with the setup was that, while the accompanying user manual is quite thorough, it’s mostly text-based, with very few images, making it initially challenging to ensure we’d set up the appliance correctly before its first use, which is critical when sharp blades are involved. We appreciated the storage hub that allows you to safely store the chopping blades and stem adapter, and fits into the workbowl but wish it could fit the discs, too.

The Cuisinart FlexPrep 1.1L Food Processor’s two buttons make it easy to use, with Pulse used for short bursts of power and On for consistent processing. However, this food processor packs a punch, so while your food can produce results quickly, there’s a fine line between it potentially becoming overprocessed. At one point in our testing, the machine began shaking back and forth on our countertop with the power, and some grated carrot jumped out of the feeding tube as we tried to add more.

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Cuisinart Flexprep 1.1L food processor chopping blade

(Image credit: Future)
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Cuisinart Flexprep 1.1L food processor whipping disc

(Image credit: Future)
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Cuisinart Flexprep 1.1L food processor medium shredding disc

(Image credit: Future)

It’s also incredibly loud; we found it registered a 99 decibel reading when chopping onions, comparable to the volume of a boiler room. We also wish a slicing attachment were included, as this is a common function for food processors and would have offered slightly more variety.

Overall, we found this to be a safety-conscious food processor that is easy to use, has a sleek and compact design, and values basic practicality over extra bells and whistles.

  • Design score: 4.5/5

Cuisinart FlexPrep 1.1L Food Processor: performance

  • Extremely powerful…
  • Almost too powerful at times
  • Shreds, chops, whips, and more
  • Speedy (but sometimes uneven) results

We began testing using the chopping blade to chop a medium-sized red onion. While the user manual includes a user guide for different food types, suggesting the tool, function, and directions to use for each, it offers few instructions for vegetables, bar a suggestion to cut raw ingredients into even, 1cm pieces before inserting them into the work bowl. This user manual also doesn’t suggest optimal quantities of food (or any quantities).

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Cuisinart Flexprep 1.1L food processor

(Image credit: Future)
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Cuisinart Flexprep 1.1L food processor

(Image credit: Future)

We were taken aback by how quickly the appliance chopped the onion in its consistent On mode. It took a few seconds (less than 10) for the onion to be entirely chopped, with no unchopped ingredient left under the blade, and the result was largely even cuts, with some outlying larger pieces – though not enough to present an issue. The speed was impressive; however, the power means you should use the Pulse feature for chopping, to have more control and prevent overprocessing.

Chopping bread with this blade, too, produced excellent results. As the user manual suggested, we tore three slices of multi-seed bread into pieces before using Pulse (for just one second) three or four times, before setting the processing to On. It took between five and 10 seconds to produce evenly chopped bread crumbs, with no bread caught underneath the blade.

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Breadcrumbs chopped using Cuisinart Flexprep 1.1L food processor

(Image credit: Future)
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Fine breadcrumbs chopped using Cuisinart Flexprep 1.1L food processor

(Image credit: Future)

Chopping almonds, however, produced less consistent results. We added 250g of whole almonds to the work bowl before using the Pulse setting to break up the nuts. It took around 25 one-second pulses to break up the almonds, but we found that while some of the almonds were chopped well, others in the same bowl were either a powder-like consistency or still whole.

After checking the consistency, we pressed the On button to continue processing to make almond butter. In around 10 seconds, the chopped almonds transformed into almond flour, but it took around six minutes to produce butter. The issue with this was that the bottom half of the work bowl’s produce had become butter, but the top half hadn’t, and wasn’t getting access to the blades as evenly, even when we used a spatula to scrape down the edges (when the appliance was off). The result was very hard butter at the bottom, with smoother butter nearer the top.

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Almonds chopped using Cuisinart Flexprep 1.1L food processor

(Image credit: Future)
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Bowl of almonds chopped using Cuisinart Flexprep 1.1L food processor

(Image credit: Future)
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Almond butter made using Cuisinart Flexprep 1.1L food processor

(Image credit: Future)
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Almond residue left in Cuisinart Flexprep 1.1L food processor

(Image credit: Future)

We did, however, find the Cuisinart FlexPrep 1.1L Food Processor a dream when combining shortcrust pastry with this chopping blade. After adding our flour and butter to the bowl, we pulsed the mixture around 20 times before adding a couple of tablespoons of water and setting it to On.

It took around 45 seconds for the pastry to come together, resulting in perfectly mixed pastry. You need to keep a close eye on the appliance when using it for this task, however, as the speed and power of the machine means it your dough can quickly become overworked.

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Making pastry using Cuisinart Flexprep 1.1L food processor

(Image credit: Future)
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Pastry dough made using Cuisinart Flexprep 1.1L food processor

(Image credit: Future)

We next tried the reversible shredding disc, which offers two options: fine shredding or medium shredding. You choose your shred by inserting the disc with the corresponding side (there is small writing that indicates which side is which) facing upwards. We started with a standard courgette on the fine shredding side. A full courgette wouldn’t fit through the feeding tube, so we sliced it vertically down the middle to fit. With the food processor on, we were able to slowly insert the courgette through the tube and into the spinning shredding disc.

The appliance shreds quickly, but you don’t feel it pulling the ingredients in at an unsafe speed. Instead, the pressure you apply feels largely in your control. In less than 20 seconds, or courgette was shredded. While the result was well-shredded pieces, with minimal residue left on the lid, the pieces weren’t all evenly sized: some pieces were shorter and others longer.

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Carrot shredded using Cuisinart Flexprep 1.1L food processor

(Image credit: Future)
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Bowl of carrot shredded using Cuisinart Flexprep 1.1L food processor

(Image credit: Future)
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Courgette shredded using Cuisinart Flexprep 1.1L food processor

(Image credit: Future)
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Bowl of courgette shredded using Cuisinart Flexprep 1.1L food processor

(Image credit: Future)

Our results with shredding carrots on the medium shred blade were similar. Again, we had to cut our two carrots down the middle vertically to fit them in the tube, but they grated in less than 20 seconds – though some carrot pieces shot out of the tube as we added more. The carrot was grated well, but again, the pieces weren’t consistently even with each other. Much like with the courgette, this isn’t a huge issue in the cooking process, but it is something we’ve seen achieved by competitors.

Finally, we tested the whipping disc with 240ml of double cream. Whipping cream can be a real chore, but this food processor produced perfectly whipped cream (that we could hold upside down without drippage) in around 40 to 50 seconds. While some residue was stuck under the blade and not entirely mixed in, we were pleased overall with the results.

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Cream whipped using Cuisinart Flexprep 1.1L food processor

(Image credit: Future)
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Bowl of cream whipped using Cuisinart Flexprep 1.1L food processor

(Image credit: Future)

Overall, the Cuisinart FlexPrep 1.1L Food Processor offers high-quality results, but not necessarily precision. Its power is its greatest strength, as it offers tremendous speed, but it is also its biggest weakness, as it can easily overwork foods if you’re not careful.

  • Performance score: 4.5/5

Should you buy the Cuisinart FlexPrep 1.1L Food Processor?

Cuisinart FlexPrep 1.1L Food Processor: score card

Attribute

Notes

Score

Value

This food processor may not come with the variety of functions seen with premium products, but offers high quality for a budget price tag.

5/5

Design

Its compact size means this food processor won't need a lot of storage room. It's also incredibly easy to use, but we do wish we had more control over its power levels.

4.5/5

Performance

This is a powerhouse food processor, shredding, whipping, and chopping with impressive speed, but this does come somewhat at the cost of precision.

4.5/5

Buy it if

You want a quality, budget food processor

For its budget price tag, this food processor offers quality results. While it can only perform a handful of (fairly basic) functions, it offers excellent value for those who want an affordable food processor to handle day-to-day food prep.

You value speed over precision

This food processor offers a huge amount of power, which means it produces its results with impressive speed. The pieces may not always be even, and you need to keep an eye on it to ensure it doesn’t overwork your food, but if speed is the most important factor to you, this is a great option.

You want to save on storage space

The Cuisinart FlexPrep 1.1L Food Processor is surprisingly compact, taking up minimal room. So, if you’re struggling for storage space, this is an excellent choice.

Don't buy it if

You want a wide variety of functions

The Cuisinart FlexPrep 1.1L Food Processor can shred, purée, chop, whip, and emulsify, but doesn’t come with some of the functions we’ve seen in competitors, such as slicing. If you want an all-singing-all-dancing food processor, this may not be the one for you.

You want control over power levels

While this is a powerful appliance, it can be too powerful at times, and there’s little control over it. If you want a food processor that has more options for power levels, therefore giving you more control over the final results, then you may be better considering an alternative.

You need a large capacity food processor

This food processor’s 1.1L work bowl offers decent capacity for smaller households or for those who plan to use it for smaller batches of food prep, but if you have a bigger household or need to make larger batches, we advise considering a food processor with a larger capacity bowl.

Cuisinart FlexPrep 1.1L Food Processor: also consider

If the Cuisinart FlexPrep 1.1L isn't quite the right food processor for you, here are two alternatives that are worth considering:

Breville The Paradice 16

This premium food processor delivers the precision that the Cuisinart FlexPrep lacks, albeit for several times the price. It's incredibly well made and has an attachment for virtually every kitchen job, from peeling to whisking and everything in between. Highly recommended if your budget will stretch this far.

Read our full Breville The Paradice 16 review

Nutribullet Triple Prep System

Three appliances in one (a food processor, jug blender, and smoothie maker) for much less than buying them separately. Works particularly well for larger quantities, but not so well with small servings, and the pitcher's blades can't be removed for cleaning, which is a shame.

Read our full Nutribullet Triple Prep System review

Philips Hue Essential lights are spectacular value, but the originals outshine them in one key way
9:00 pm | December 29, 2025
Author: admin | Category: Computers Gadgets Home Smart Home Smart Lights | Tags: | Comments: Off

Philips Hue Essential: two-minute review

Philips Hue Essential bulbs are a more affordable version of the company's standard smart lights, and they perform incredibly well considering they're less than half the price. There are a few limitations, though. For example, Philips Hue Essential bulbs offer a maximum brightness of **803**CHECK*** lumens, whereas standard Philips Hue White & Color Ambiance bulbs range from 800 to 1,600 lumens.

In most other respects, the two are very similar, and during my tests there was only one clear instance where the standard bulb really outshone the Essential version.

Philips Hue Essential bulb shifting between shades of blue and purple

The Philips Hue Essential bulb's color reproduction was impressive (Image credit: Future)

To see how the two would compare, I set up a pair of lamps – one with a Philips Hue Essential bulb, and the other with an 800-lumen Philips Hue White & Color Ambiance bulb. I added them to the same room in the Philips Hue app, which would enable me to control them simultaneously, and directly compare and contrast their output.

During most of the tests I ran, it was difficult to spot any difference between the two. Both were equally responsive, and produced colors that were identical to my naked eye when I switched between scenes. According to Signify (the company behind the Philips Hue brand), Essential bulbs use different color-matching technology to regular Hue lights; but personally, I had a hard time telling the difference.

Having said that, I did notice a dark band at the top of the Essential bulb, which wasn't present on the premium bulb. This was most apparent with purple and blue light. Note that it isn't something you'll notice if you're using the bulb in a ceiling light, nor in a table lamp, and therefore is unlikely to be a deal-breaker unless you're exceptionally picky.

Philips Hue Essential bulb set to purple showing dark

A dark "halo" is sometimes visible around the top of the Philips Hue Essential bulb (Image credit: Future)

The two were equally bright (as expected), although if I'd used a higher-output White & Color Ambiance bulb, then it would have been appreciably brighter.

However, there's one important difference that you should be aware of, particularly if you're looking for smart bulbs that will produce a natural-looking sunrise and sunset to help you wake up feeling refreshed, or to create subtle ambient lighting in your living room.

With both bulbs dialled down to their dimmest setting, the Hue Essential bulb was much brighter than the more expensive White & Color Ambiance model, as you can see in the photo below. That's because the Hue Essential bulb can only be dimmed to 2% of its maximum brightness, whereas the regular bulb can drop to just 0.2%.

Philips Hue Essential bulb and Philips Hue White & Color Ambiance bulbs in identical lamps on their dimmest settings

(Image credit: Future)

I also found that the Essential bulb tended to show a slightly warmer cast, due to its narrower white light spectrum (2,200–6,500K compared to 1,000-20,00K for a regular Hue bulb). Depending on your preferred light temperature, the difference could be apparent if you use the two different types of bulbs in close proximity,

I wouldn't mix and match regular Hue and Hue Essential bulbs within the same room. However, they're an excellent option for those wanting to setup a Philips Hue system but have previously been intimidated by the price. They're also great if you're looking to extend your existing system to more rooms in your home, without splashing too much cash.

  • Performance score: 4.5/5

Philips Hue Essential: price and availability

  • Much cheaper than regular Philips Hue bulbs
  • Even more affordable when bought as a multipack
  • You may also want a Philips Hue Bridge

The Philips Hue Essential range is designed to be an accessible entry point into the world of smart lighting, with the bulbs coming in at a much cheaper price than standard Philips Hue ones.

One Philips Hue Essential bulb (either screw or bayonet) costs $24.99 / £19.99 (about AU$40). If you want several, you can save money by opting for a multipack. A twin-pack costs $44.99 / £32.99 (about AU$70), and a four-pack comes in at $59.99 / £49.99 (about AU$90).

For comparison, a twin-pack of regular 800-lumen Philips Hue White & Color Ambiance bulbs costs $98.99 / £84.99 / AU$149.25, and a four-pack is $185.99 / £169.99 / AU$290.50. That's the starting price for a maximum brightness of 800 lumens; brighter bulbs cost even more.

Philips Hue Essential and regular Philips Hue bulbs in identical table lamps

The Philips Hue Essential bulb (left) has a slightly warmer cast than the regular Philips Hue White & Color Ambiance bulb on maximum brightness (800 lumens) (Image credit: Future)

There's another potential cost to consider, though. Although you can control the color and brightness of your Philips Hue Essential lights using Bluetooth on your phone, for more advanced features (such as applying scenes, setting schedules, and connecting them to smart speakers or switches) you'll also need a Philips Hue Bridge.

A standard Philips Hue Bridge costs $65.99 / £49.99 / AU$99.95, so factor this into your budget when planning your new smart lighting system. There's also a Philips Hue Bridge Pro, but this would be overkill for a new user with a small setup.

At the time of writing, Hue Essential bulbs only seem to be available in Australia as part of a starter kit, costing $170.08 for four bulbs and the Hue Bridge.

  • Value score: 5/5

Philips Hue Essential: specifications

Philips Hue Essential specifications

Fitting base

E26/E27, B22, GU10

Wattage

60W equivalent

Maximum brightness

***806 lumens***CHECK

Colors

16 million colors, 2,200–6,500K white light

Control options

Hue app, Amazon Alexa, Google Home, Apple HomeKit, Matter, and more

Connection options

Bluetooth, Zigbee

Philips Hue Essential: design

  • Only three bulb types available
  • All options offer tuneable white and colored light
  • Maximum brightness of ***802***CHECK lumens

Philips offers only a small selection of Hue Essential bulbs, which makes sense for an entry-level option. There are currently three models available – screw, bayonet, and GU10 spotlights – and these should be fine for most fittings around your home. Here, I tested an E27 screw-fitting bulb.

By contrast, regular Philips Hue lights come in virtually every shape and form possible, including candle and "filament"-style bulbs, LED strips, and gradient lamps to name just a few.

All bulbs in the Philips Hue Essential Series are "Warm to Cool White & Color", meaning they can show eight million colours, plus white light at different temperatures (from 2,200K to 6,500K). Regular Philips Hue smart bulbs are available in three versions:

  • Warm white, which lets you tune brightness but not color;
  • White Ambiance, which lets you adjust the brightness and temperature;
  • White & Color Ambiance, which also lets you pick from eight million colors.

For more details, take a look at my complete guide to the different types of Philips Hue smart light bulbs.

All Philips Hue Essential bulbs offer a maximum brightness of ***803***CHECK lumens. Regular Philips Hue bulbs range from 800 all the way through to 1,600 lumens.

  • Design score: 4.5/5

Should you buy Philips Hue Essential bulbs?

Philips Hue Essential scorecard

Attribute

Notes

Score

Value

Exceptional value at less than half the price of a standard Hue bulb (and even better in a multipack).

5/5

Design

Only available in three formats, but these cover most everyday use cases.

4.5/5

Performance

Compares favorably with original Philips Hue bulbs, but can't dim as low and has a slightly warm cast.

4.5/5

Buy them if

The price of regular Hue lights is off-putting

Philips Hue Essential bulbs are less than half the price of standard Hue lights, making them a much more affordable introduction to smart lighting.

You want to extend your Hue setup into more rooms

If you have a Hue system for your entertainment area, Hue Essential bulbs would be a great way to light areas such as hallways and dining rooms, where you don't need to dial the brightness right down.

Don't buy them if

You want to create subtle ambience

The dimmest setting on a Philips Hue Essential bulb is 2%, compared to 0.2% for a standard Hue light, so you won't be able to make super-subtle effects, and it doesn't make an ideal wake-up light.

You already have regular Hue bulbs in your room

Philips Hue Essential bulbs are very good, but their limitations might be apparent if you use them side-by-side with regular Hue lights. I'd recommend using one or the other in a room, rather than a mixture of both.

Philips Hue Essential: also consider

Govee Wi-Fi LED Bulb

Govee's lights connect directly to your home Wi-Fi network, meaning you can control them remotely via an app without the need for an additional hub. There's a very limited selection of bulb types, though, and during our tests we found their colors lacked vibrancy.

Read our full Govee Wi-Fi LED Bulb review

Nanoleaf Matter Essentials

As the name suggests, these smart bulbs are Matter-compatible, which makes them easy to integrate with a mixed smart home. They're a little cheaper than Hue Essential bulbs, too; but we found setup a little buggy in comparison to the smooth Hue experience.

Read our full Nanoleaf Matter Essentials review

How I tested the Philips Hue Essential bulbs

I tested a Philips Hue Essential E27 screw-fitting bulb alongside a standard Philips Hue Essential White & Color Ambiance bulb in identical table lamps, so I could more easily compare the two. I connected both to my existing Philips Hue setup, and added them to the same zone, which would enable me to control them both at once via the Hue app on my phone, set them to the same colors and brightness, and note similarities and differences.

I also tested them using the "sunset" automation within the Philips Hue app, with various preset scenes, and by tuning the light color and brightness manually.

For more details, see how we test, rate, and review products at TechRadar.

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