Let’s say that you are looking for a fully automatic espresso machine; then Philips is a brand that you should not dismiss. Among them, Philips 1200 vs 2200 are worthy of consideration.
When comparing these two machines, I concluded that both of them offer users many similar great features, such as the solid grinder, the Aroma strength settings, the user-friendliness, and so on. However, with the Philips 2200, you will receive some more utilities, like the aroma seal and the Aqua Clean filter, while the price is still affordable.
Meanwhile, the Philips 1200 is a suitable option if you need a fully automatic espresso machine for under $500. As far as performance goes, this machine is good enough with many different minimum features for a super-automatic. So, it’s still possible for you to make good espresso with it.
Philips 1200 vs 2200: Comparison Chart
Last update on 2025-04-20 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Philips 1200 vs 2200: Differences
By analyzing the differences between these two espresso machines, I figured out that the Philips 2200 has the upper hand with its overall coffee flavor extraction, intelligent design, and much more. So, it wins with a score of 5:0. Read the breakdown below for details.
COFFEE FLAVOR
The winner: Philips 2200
Espresso flavor performance
On the whole, both Philips 1200 and 2200 have an adjustable volume setting that preserves the taste of espresso. In detail, there are 12 different grinding options for you to choose from. Each of these works with your choice and extracts the best flavor.
For the first espresso, these two machines all come out with a pretty poor shot, but it’s rather normal, like any first run. However, with 2200, the second shot is much better just by using the default settings for espresso. That is a nice extraction with an appropriate amount of crema and a depth flavor of espresso. On the other hand, with 1200, you will have to try some other first shots because the machine needs to be conditioned somehow.
Grinder
Of course, espresso’s flavor is still based on different factors, such as the quality of coffee beans, the grinding settings, brewing technology, and more. So, let’s take a closer look at the grinder.
No matter your brew method, the grinding process of the coffee plays an important role in extracting a great-tasting espresso. This is the first step to make sure the coffee does not spoil all the way during brewing. So a solid grinder is essential, right?
But where can you find a super-automatic espresso machine with a reasonable price and a powerful built-in grinder? Luckily, the Philips 1200 and 2200 both meet the requirements.
Overall, the grinder design of these two machines is the same. The grinding model provides a flat burr grinder that offers more control and produces a remarkably even particle size. Due to the ceramic material, the blades have a longer life span as well as keeping their original sharpness almost indefinitely.
Besides, ceramic blades are also known for their ability to preserve the “traditional” coffee taste and feel since this material can keep the temperature stable, thereby protecting the coffee from burning and spoiling the flavor. Moreover, ceramic does not rust or deteriorate when exposed to warm and moist environments over time.
The point that makes 2200 distinct from 1200 is the aroma seal. This function protects your favorite coffee beans and ensures they preserve their original aroma over time while reducing the grinder noise.
MILK SYSTEM
The winner: Philips 2200
About the milk frothing system, both these machines use manual steam wands. Several of you might be puzzled about this side, but don’t worry. With these Philips models, you just need to insert the wand into the milk, press the steam icon, then the start button and wait. Also, some Youtube videos are out there to help you get this technique down.
In general, their steam wand is easy to use, especially for cappuccinos, and the quality of the froth is quite even and silky. Additionally, due to being made of two removable parts, this stuff is rather easy to clean. You can take it apart and wash it under a stream of running water whenever you want.
However, I figured out that there is a small issue with the steam wand of the Philips 1200. Maybe it’s just a defective problem in manufacturing. If the silver part of the wand is pushed on too tightly, then the small hole will be blocked. Thus, you need to attach it loosely a bit for easier air circulation.
CLEANING AND MAINTENANCE
The winner: Philips 2200
Both Philips 1200 and 2200 have the advantage of being easy to clean and maintain. All cleaning and maintenance operations are simple and convenient. Philips already has a video describing how to clean and maintain these two models of coffee machines on their official Youtube channel so that you can refer to the details.
These two Philips models all use an Aqua Clean filter, which allows users to keep the water in the machine clean. By changing the filter after being prompted by the machine, you will not need to descale your machine for up to 5000 cups while enjoying clear and purified water.
The only difference between the 1200 and 2200 is that the Philips 1200 does not come with an Aqua Clean filter when you purchase the device, and you need to buy one on your own.
User-friendliness
The winner: Philips 2200
Another crucial factor in fully automatic espresso machines is being user-friendly. With these two models, Philips has met the requirement. The Philips 1200 model has a nearly similar control panel to the 2200 model. The control panel is a touchscreen panel, while the display is large and well-organized for simplistic operation.
Nevertheless, in the 1200 model, the controls are minimalistic, and there is no coffee-type option. In addition, the indicator lights in this machine are different from those in the Philips 2200.
VALUE FOR MONEY
The winner: Philips 2200
According to what I mentioned above, both machines share many similarities in terms of their structure and features, while their prices are not too different. However, with the Philips 2200, you can own some other utilities that the Philips 1200 does not have, such as the attached Aqua Clean filter and the aroma seal.
In my opinion, both machines are worth their money. However, you get what you pay for; you can choose to spend more than 100 dollars to exchange for a machine with full utilities or choose a machine with a lower price to save costs. Ultimately, all decisions are up to you, and I hope my information will help you make one.
Quick Rundown Of Philips 2200
- 2 DELICIOUS COFFEES: Espresso or Coffee, take your pick. Cappuccino lovers, top your coffee with silky smooth milk froth using our two-part milk system.
- INTUITIVE DISPLAY: Brew your favorite coffee quickly and easily using our user-friendly touch display.
- KEEPS BEANS FRESH: Aroma seal preserves the freshness of your beans so they last for longer.
- REMOVABLE BREW GROUP: Easily keep the heart of your coffee machine in great shape. Remove, rinse, place back.
- DESCALING ALERT: Get notified when it's time to descale your machine. No guesswork needed.
Last update on 2025-04-20 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Quick Rundown Of Philips 1200
- With Philips 1200 Series enjoy the delicious taste and aroma of coffee from fresh beans at the perfect temperature.Filter type:Reusable
- Classic Milk Frother System: Dispenses steam, allowing you to easily prepare silky smooth milk froth for your cappuccino
- Intuitive Touch Display: Select the perfect coffee for your mood with just one touch
- My Coffee Choice Menu: Adjust the strength and quantity of your beverage and choose from three different settings to suit your preferences. The Aroma Extract system intelligently strikes the optimum balance between brewing temperature and aroma extraction by keeping the water temperature between 90 and 98°C
- Powerful Filter and Easy Maintenance: Thanks to the AquaClean, enjoy clear and purified water - by changing the filter after being prompted by the machine, you will not need to descale your machine for up to 5000 cups
Last update on 2025-04-20 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Product videos
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References
- Philips 2200 Series EP2220/14 from Philips https://www.usa.philips.com/c-e/ho/coffee/espresso/philips-automatic-espresso-machine-2200-series.html
- Philips 1200-Series Carina https://www.usa.philips.com/c-p/EP1220_04/series-1200-fully-automatic-espresso-machines
I’m Floyd J. Alcock, an experienced barista with a deep love for coffee. I curate personalized coffee experiences, guiding customers through diverse flavor profiles and suggesting ideal brewing methods. My extensive knowledge of espresso machines enables me to recommend the best equipment to match specific needs and budgets. Sharing my expertise and passion with coffee enthusiasts brings immense satisfaction. I look forward to continuing my journey of coffee discovery with every customer I serve, fostering connections over a shared love for this magical beverage.