The Fellow Series 1 is not just another espresso machine; it’s a significant shift in how home baristas approach brewing. After three weeks of testing, it’s clear this machine will reshape the conversation about home espresso, offering unprecedented control over shot parameters at a price point previously reserved for commercial-grade equipment.
Challenging Espresso Traditions
For decades, home espresso machines have focused on delivering consistent 9 bars of pressure and stable temperature – a standard set by early electric pumps like the Faema in 1961. However, the Fellow Series 1 challenges this convention. While it can deliver a traditional 9-bar shot, its real innovation lies in allowing users to adjust flow rates and pressure curves, unlocking new flavors from different roasts. This level of customization was previously exclusive to high-end commercial machines costing upwards of $10,000.
The Series 1 makes this accessible for beginners too: pre-set profiles for light, medium, and dark beans automate the process, while experienced users can dive into granular control over shot parameters.
Design and Build Quality
The Series 1 boasts a sleek, minimalist aesthetic reminiscent of Fellow’s Aiden drip coffee maker. Its compact size (17.25 x 12.5 x 11 inches) ensures it fits under most cabinets. The machine’s precision-machined portafilter and group head offer a satisfying, secure feel. The steam wand is powerful and maneuverable, capable of producing dense milk froth without splattering.
Fellow’s approach to hardware is solid: the device has already received three firmware updates since pre-launch testing. This suggests a commitment to refinement, though it also highlights the reality that some features remain under development.
Innovative Heating System
The Series 1’s heating system combines a boiler with a thermoblock and heated group head, aiming for the stability of a boiler with the speed of a thermoblock. This hybrid approach heats up in approximately two minutes while maintaining consistent temperature throughout the shot – a common issue with cheaper thermoblock machines. The 2-liter water tank is removable, though its upward-only removal may be problematic for kitchens with limited counter clearance.
Shot Profiles and Customization
The machine’s true power lies in its shot profiles. Seven pre-programmed options cater to various preferences:
- Light Roast: Employs a pressure ramp-down to prevent over-extraction.
- Medium Roast: Adds pre-infusion for better extraction.
- Dark Roast: Delivers a nearly traditional espresso shot.
- Lever: Simulates a manual espresso machine for syrupy body and crema.
- Turbo: Maximizes flavor by grinding coarser and blasting water through the shot.
The Series 1 offers intuitive bean-assist functions to help beginners dial in grind size. Advanced users can experiment with custom profiles, with plans for a future app update allowing users to share and download profiles from the community.
Remaining Issues
The machine isn’t without its quirks: the water reservoir’s placement may be restrictive for some kitchens, and the hot water dispenser currently defaults to the previous settings without allowing immediate adjustment. Volumetric controls were also slightly off during testing, occasionally delivering shots a milliliter short or long. The full phone app is still in development, meaning users must rely on the on-device menu for now.
Conclusion
Despite these minor issues, the Fellow Series 1 is a remarkable achievement. It’s a genuine evolution in home espresso, bringing commercial-grade control and customization to a wider audience. The Series 1 sets a new standard and will force competitors to rethink what’s possible in the home espresso market.
