The Philips line of superautomatic espresso machines combines quality coffee with ease of use and simple maintenance. Each machine in the Philips line hits a great combination of price point and features. You get all-in-one coffee making, from a built-in grinder, brew unit, and milk frothing options. These machines also offer easy maintenance with their AquaClean filtration. Further enhancing the capabilities of these machines are the models that include the LatteGo milk steaming system. This carafe based steam system produces delicious lattes and cappuccinos with easy cleaning and impressive texture.
If you’ve seen these machines then you’re familiar with the Philips 3200 LatteGo. This machine is in the middle of the Philips lineup, and offers more drink options than the Carina. By adding the LatteGo carafe you get even more versatility and automation. Recently, Philips took this machine a step further. Today we’re reviewing the Philips 3200 LatteGo Iced Coffee. This iteration of the 3200 LatteGo adds a whole new dimension, so let’s give it a look!
Same Machine, New Way to Brew
The existing parts of the 3200 LatteGo Iced Coffee are very much the same as what you’d expect from the 3200. You still get simple operation, the carafe based LatteGo milk steaming, and AquaClean water filtration. The only thing missing from the base machine is the americano button. The reason this was removed is because that is where Philips has added the iced coffee option. It doesn’t create any real issues thankfully, as the drink can be made by using the espresso and hot water options.
What you gain is an iced coffee option. It’s important to note that this machine doesn’t actually have a refrigerator inside. It can’t actually cool the coffee. Instead, it’s designed to be brewed over ice. The setting uses a lower heat than the normal coffee setting, and different pressure settings with the pump. The result is a cooler, slower extraction that comes out lukewarm.
If we’re being honest, we actually like this setting even without ice. The slower extraction time gives it a unique flavor that gives the other coffee the machine makes a run for its money. When brewed over ice it’s exceptional for a superautomatic drink. So what user is this machine best suited for?Conclusions
We feel that the Philips 3200 LatteGo Iced Coffee is a perfect option for a user who wants a lot of versatility in their drink options. Between espresso, cappuccinos, lattes, and long shots, plus the option to make an americano with the hot water function, this machine already has a lot of drinks on offer. When you add in the iced coffee option it really takes it to the next level. If you’re mostly focused on the hot options that this machine produces, the base model, or even the Carina, may be the right choice for you. With all that in mind, we really enjoy the options offered by the Philips 3200 LatteGo Iced Coffee, and we think it’s a great expansion of the line.