Calphalon Temp IQ Review

The Temp IQ offers cafe-level construction in a relatively beginner-friendly package, making it a decent choice for espresso lovers.

Performance Comparison

Espresso Quality

A finicky grinder paired with so-so shots and crema were the cause for our subpar scores in this metric. Despite our repeated efforts, our professional baristas simply couldn't produce cafe-quality brews with the Temp IQ.

During our testing, the Temp IQ was able to turn 19-grams of grounds into 30-grams of liquid espresso in 24 seconds. These results were acceptable and on par with several of the machines on our list. However, this machine did not have competitive results when it came to the extraction yield of the shots it produced.

With the help of a refractometer, we were able to determine the density of coffee in each of the shots pulled by the Temp IQ. Although not the worst yields of the review, 16.2% still isn't up to speed with industry standards (18% to 22%). Likewise, we found the shots from this machine to be primarily acidic and harsh with stiff, lumpy crema. We feel part of the reason for these results can be tied back to the built-in grinder, which we found difficult to dial in. We were forced to experiment with grind size — never truly finding the perfect one — which led to pressure issues and a lot of so-so shots.

We did like the machine's pre-infusion feature. Prior to pulling the shot, this feature gently wets the grinds before applying the full espresso-brewing pressure. This helps even out the grinds before they are hit with the full pressure, which can help make up for any slight imperfections in grind size or tamping technique. However, we weren't as happy with portafilter. It's made of lightweight metal and it doesn't maintain heat very well.

Ease of Use

A relatively easy setup, simple control panel, and great instructions contributed to the Temp IQ decent scores for this metric. This is a semi-automatic machine but does require a bit more effort and an increased learning curve than many of the more automated models on the market.

From the standpoint of a beginner barista, the Temp IQ comes with excellent user instructions for everything from setup to perfecting a cappuccino. It walks the user through the process of grinding, tamping, and brewing step-by-step. It even helps you figure out the exact grind size you need for the specific coffee beans you're using. We also appreciate that the 30 grinder settings are labeled as “faster” and “slower” as well as “coarse” and “fine” — this makes it more intuitive for beginners to adjust the grind size if their shots are pulling too quickly or slowly.

We absolutely love the massive 94-ounce water tank that the Temp IQ offers. It's the largest tank of any machine in our review, and is easy to remove and refill. Having access to this much water is very convenient when you have company and need to make back-to-back shots.

In addition to a beginner-friendly brewing process, we also found the steam wand a breeze to use. All told, we were able to make a cappuccino in 3 minutes and 49 seconds, quite a fast time given the semi-automatic style of this machine.

When considering the overall savings it brings to the table, the Temp IQ doesn't compete well against our top performers, when it comes to its total lifetime costs per shot; however, our calculations show that, when used consistently, it certainly is cheaper than waiting in line every morning at your favorite coffee shop.

The Temp IQ also makes it easy for more experienced baristas to experiment with their brew technique. Simple controls allow you to manually adjust advanced settings like temperature, extraction volume, and pre-infusion. We very much appreciate that this machine allows beginner brewers to mature into full-out espresso nerdery if they so choose.

Ease of Cleaning

The Temp IQ was given a slightly better score for this metric than most of the machines in our review. Espresso machines are generally one of the more difficult appliances to clean and maintain; however, this one is just a little bit easier, thanks to detailed instructions and more options for descaling.

Short-term cleaning is fairly easy. We had no trouble wiping down the steam wand and cleaning out the portafilter after each cappuccino. Many of this machine's accessories and components (milk pitcher, drip tray, filter baskets) are dishwasher safe. When it comes to deep cleaning, simply watch for “Clean” light to illuminate (no set frequency), and then simply add a cleaning disc and tablet to the portafilter and run a 7-minute cleaning cycle. We also found the descaling process simple and convenient. Calphalon recommends descaling every four to six months, but it depends on the hardness of water and frequency of use. Surprisingly, the manual lists three methods for descaling: tablets, liquid descaling solution, or white vinegar and warm water. We liked that we were given more than one option.

Milk Steaming

The Temp IQ is one of the few models we've tested that can truly create cafe-quality steamed milk. Like with any model that uses a classic steam wand, it takes a bit of practice to get everything perfect, but it is well worth the effort.

What really sets the milk steaming on this machine apart is its ability to create finely textured microfoam. This kind of foam is what makes lattes taste so decadent and is what defines the cafe experience for many coffee drinkers. If your dream is to be able to pour a perfect rosetta or tulip on top of your lattes at home, the Temp IQ can help get you there.

Machine Customization

The ability to adjust temperature and pre-infusion rates, along with personalized options for shot volume earned the Temp IQ one of our higher scores for this metric.

When it comes to water temperature, the Temp IQ gives the user the ability to adjust the extraction temperature from 190°F to 205°F in 2-degree increments. This adjustment goes a long way toward catering to various types of roasted coffee beans because different roasts require different water temperatures. The Temp IQ also has three different pre-infusion modes (gentle, distinct, constant). We liked this option because it allowed us to more specifically calibrate the pre-infusion to the coarseness of our grind. Lastly, we really liked this machine's ability to program the automatic shot volumes for the manual mode, the single shot, and double shot.

Should You Buy the Calphalon Temp IQ?

The Calphalon Temp IQ certainly isn't cheap. This is because it's made of high-grade components and is built to last. There is very little we didn't like about the Temp IQ. It's easy to use, simple to maintain, and it steams and froths milk like a pro. That said, we never could pull the cafe-quality espresso shots we were hoping for. So, if you are in the market for a very solid espresso machine that requires a lot of trial and error to achieve more than so-so espresso, you can't go wrong with the overall quality of the Temp IQ.

What Other Espresso Machines Should You Consider?

We love the Breville Barista Express. Like the Temp IQ, it's easy to use, made to last, and also comes with a built-in grinder. If cost is central to your espresso machine search, we think you should check out the De'Longhi Stilosa. You'll get just the basics, and your espresso will be average, but you certainly won't spend a lot.