Mii Coffee Apex V2 Espresso Machine

Description

When the first version of this machine appeared, it seemed poised to shake up the entry to mid-level home espresso market. Unfortunately, version 1 barely caused a ripple, thanks to several critical shortcomings—most notably the absence of a proper 9-bar OPV and pre-infusion functionality that simply didn’t deliver as promised.

With version 2, however, we’re witnessing something truly extraordinary. After extensive testing, our team at Caffeinated Gear is confident this machine is about to make an enormous splash!

Features and Benefits

• Ready Time: Under 5 minutes
• Pre-infusion: Adjustable volume & bloom time
• Shot Buttons: Manual & Pre-set (time based)
• Brew Boiler: 550ml stainless steel boiler
• Steam: Stainless steel thermoblock
• PID: Adjustable PID for both steam and brew
• Brew Temp: 80-102°C in 1°C increments
• Steam Temp: 135°C – 147°C in 1°C increments
• Portafilter: 58mm E61 compatible
• OPV: Externally adjustable
• Flow Rate: Adjustable via needle valve
• Pump: Vibration
• Steam wand: Pro steam wand with single hole tip
• Water Tank: 2L, removable (listed as 1.7L)
• Drip Tray: Approx. 350ml capacity – level indicator
• Eco Mode: Auto after 28 mins

Let’s be crystal clear about what we’re seeing here: a machine with a dedicated brew boiler, separate steam thermoblock (both PID controlled), fully adjustable pre-infusion, adjustable OPV, and even adjustable flow rate—all for roughly the same price as the Gaggia Classic E24?

This is absolutely mind-boggling.

In our head-to-head comparisons, this machine doesn’t merely outperform the Gaggia Classic; it surpasses machines like the Profitec Go and Lelit Victoria when considering pure performance metrics.

The pre-infusion system is the pre-brew type, not the gentle ramp-up variety. You can fine-tune the pre-brew time, which translates to approximately 5-6ml of water per second.

Additionally, you can adjust the brew pause (bloom) time in precise one-second increments.

The machine offers both a continuous/manual shot button and a programmable shot button, though it’s worth noting this is time-based rather than volumetric.

If you prefer using the “auto” shot button, we recommend setting it to the maximum shot time you might need with your current beans.

Dual Boiler?

We’ve noticed this machine occasionally mislabelled as a dual boiler—it isn’t.

What it does have is a dedicated thermoblock for steam, offering the significant advantage of instantly available steam without waiting for temperature changes. There’s no delay for the boiler to reach steam temperature, nor any waiting period for it to cool back to brewing temperature afterwards.

With only one pump, you can’t simultaneously steam milk and pull shots as you would with true dual boilers or heat exchanger machines.

Nevertheless, the workflow is impressively efficient—pull your shot, then immediately steam your milk (or vice versa). This delivers a faster experience than most single-boiler espresso machines.

Steam Power

The steam delivery is both continuous and remarkably consistent. During our tests, we found it powerful enough to steam 170ml of milk in approximately 40 seconds. The single-hole tip proved surprisingly intuitive, allowing our team to create beautifully textured milk with minimal effort.

Hot Water?

One limitation worth noting: there’s no dedicated hot water outlet, nor can you dispense hot water through the steam wand. You could theoretically dispense water through the group head for Americanos, though this method is somewhat slower than a dedicated spout.

Adjustable OPV

The OPV (over pressure valve) controls the basket pressure limit. The original version lacked a proper functional OPV, featuring only a safety valve.

The manufacturer’s swift response to this shortcoming is commendable—especially when compared to Gaggia, who still haven’t addressed similar demands for their Classic model released back in 1991!

We believe slow adaptation will no longer be viable for espresso machine manufacturers hoping to maintain market share, particularly as responsive brands like this demonstrate their willingness to implement customer feedback.

Gaggia isn’t alone in needing improvement in this area. Among single-boiler machines, the Profitec Go is currently the only other model we’re aware of offering an externally adjustable OPV.

From our perspective, an externally adjustable OPV is no longer a luxury—it’s essential. We remain perplexed why so many home espresso machine manufacturers persist in shipping machines with OPVs set to 10 bars or higher.

Flow Rate Adjustment

The inclusion of a dedicated screw for flow rate adjustment is truly impressive!

If you’re not specifically looking to experiment with flow profiling, we’d suggest leaving this setting as-is. However, for more adventurous home baristas, this feature provides remarkable flexibility.

Our one criticism: we feel the design would have benefited from a larger adjustment nut similar to the OPV adjustment, allowing on-the-fly adjustments mid-shot using just your fingers.

Instead, the adjustment nut sits inside the case, requiring a flathead screwdriver for modifications.

There are catches, though

While this machine delivers extraordinary value, it does come with certain compromises.

After extensive testing of our Apex V2, we can confirm there are no performance-related drawbacks. Yes, an external adjustment for flow rate would be preferable, and a hot water spout would be welcome—but everything the machine does, it does exceptionally well.

The primary compromises involve the inevitable tradeoff between performance and build quality/aesthetics.

Aesthetically, it’s not the most attractive machine on the market. This won’t concern everyone—honestly, it doesn’t particularly bother us. We’re more focused on what’s in the cup than what’s on the countertop.

The overall build quality doesn’t match the previously mentioned machines. There’s a certain roughness around the edges.

Most of these issues are cosmetic, though we did identify one potential long-term concern: the mainboard sits perilously close to water pipes without protective casing.

This arrangement could potentially lead to mainboard failure over time. We’re puzzled why the manufacturer didn’t enclose it in a simple plastic case—a seemingly inexpensive solution.

Externally, most components are sturdier than first impressions might suggest. While the plastic elements of the water tank (including the lid and fittings) appear potentially brittle, our experience suggests otherwise.

We received a heavily used Kafmasino One (essentially the same machine externally, with some internal differences including a different thermoblock) for review purposes. Despite having travelled internationally between numerous reviewers, it showed no signs of strain to these components—with one exception.

After years of use and transportation, the thin plastic piece connecting the digital panel to the frame had developed a small crack. Then, in a moment of clumsiness, we accidentally pushed it completely inside the machine.

A simple application of adhesive resolved the issue, but this illustrates the compromises made when prioritising performance over build quality.

The warranty situation presents another consideration. Currently, the warranty covers one year with return-to-base shipping at the customer’s expense. Given potential international shipping costs to and from China, this effectively means customers should be prepared to locate a UK-based espresso machine technician if issues arise.

That said, we anticipate UK importers will soon recognise this machine’s potential and begin offering it with standard UK warranty coverage.

Vs the Gaggia Classic E24

In direct comparison, the Apex dramatically outperforms the Classic right out of the box.

Steam power is significantly better and more consistent, and the Apex offers adjustable pre-infusion, brew temperature, and over-pressure valve settings. In terms of performance and features, they simply exist in different leagues.

However, the Classic remains a reliable workhorse with tank-like durability. Purchasing directly from authorised UK retailers such as Gaggia Direct or Clumsy Goat ensures dependable UK warranty coverage.

Vs the Bambino Plus

Though frequently compared, these machines serve quite different purposes.

The Bambino Plus, created by Sage (masters of user-friendliness), offers exceptional convenience with its 3-second heat-up time and automated milk steaming.

For those seeking straightforward, classic espresso with medium-dark to dark roasts without unnecessary complexity, the Bambino likely represents a more suitable option.

If you’re keen to experiment with a broader selection of beans (provided you pair it with a suitable grinder), and you value this level of adjustability, then the Apex V2 would be the more appropriate choice for your setup.

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