Panasonic NC-PS35WSQ Steam Spray Coffee Maker Review

If you’ve ever wanted to make fresh coffee at home without investing in a full espresso machine or learning complex techniques, a steam-spray coffee maker might be your answer. These machines offer a balance between ease of use and richer flavor than drip coffee, often including features like built-in grinders and multiple beverage options. But do they really deliver a quality cup? Let’s take a closer look at one popular model.

The Panasonic NC-PS35WSQ uses steam spray extraction to brew a more nuanced coffee, grinds beans in its own mill, and can also prepare black tea or green tea. With three flavor settings—original, rich, and iced coffee—it gives you options beyond just espresso. Priced at 1899 yuan, it’s a multifunctional machine for home use.

What Is the Panasonic NC-PS35WSQ?

The Panasonic NC-PS35WSQ is a compact coffee and tea maker designed for home use. It combines a built-in coffee bean grinder with a steam spray extraction system to produce a richer, more textured brew similar to espresso. Its design is minimalist and white, with a touch panel and a transparent coffee cup marked with measurement guides. The control buttons are located on the lower left and feature dynamic lighting for a sleek, modern aesthetic.

How Does Steam Spray Extraction Work?

Unlike traditional drip or French press methods, the NC-PS35WSQ uses steam spray to extract coffee. This method forces hot steam through ground coffee, resulting in a brew that’s described as having a finer, smoother taste. The steam approach is simpler than pressure-based espresso machines but still aims to enhance flavor clarity and body. It’s a good middle ground for users who want something stronger and more nuanced than regular filter coffee but don’t need a full espresso setup.

Key Features and Functions

The NC-PS35WSQ comes with several practical features:

• Built-in Grinder: You can use whole coffee beans and grind them fresh in the machine for a more aromatic cup.
• Steam Spray Extraction: Delivers a finer, more flavorful coffee compared to standard drip methods.
• Three Flavor Modes: Choose between original, rich, and iced coffee settings to adjust taste intensity.
• Multi-Beverage Capability: Besides coffee, the machine can also brew black tea and green tea.
• Transparent Cup with Measurements: Helps you monitor your brew and follow recipes more accurately.
• Touch Controls with Dynamic Display: Easy operation with a modern, high-end look.

Design and Usability

The machine’s pure white color and smooth panel are not only stylish but also easy to clean. The transparent coffee cup includes clear measurement markings, which assist in portion control and experimenting with brew strength. The control layout is simple, with touch buttons on the lower left side and a display that adds a futuristic feel. While it doesn’t use high-pressure extraction like a professional espresso machine, its design focuses on accessibility and daily convenience.

What Kinds of Coffee Can You Make?

You can use either pre-ground coffee or whole beans with the built-in grinder. The machine is optimized for a style of coffee similar to espresso but made via steam spray. If you prefer a stronger, oilier shot akin to traditional espresso, you’ll need to use freshly ground beans. The three flavor presets—original, rich, and iced—let you tailor the intensity and temperature, whether you’re making a hot morning brew or a chilled iced coffee.

Can It Make Tea Too?

Yes. In addition to coffee, the NC-PS35WSQ can brew both black tea and green tea. This makes it a versatile appliance for households that enjoy multiple hot beverages. While it’s not a dedicated tea infuser, it does offer a convenient way to switch between coffee and tea without needing separate machines.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the Panasonic NC-PS35WSQ use real espresso extraction?

No, it uses steam spray extraction rather than high-pressure espresso extraction. This method produces a coffee that’s richer than drip but not as intense or crema-rich as true espresso from a machine with 9 bars of pressure. It’s more comparable to a milder, steam-based Italian-style coffee.

Can I use pre-ground coffee in the NC-PS35WSQ?

Yes, the machine allows you to use either pre-ground coffee or whole beans. If you choose beans, they’re ground fresh in the built-in grinder for optimal aroma. Using freshly ground beans is recommended for the best flavor, especially if you want a richer, more authentic coffee taste.

What are the flavor settings on the NC-PS35WSQ?

The machine offers three settings: original, rich, and iced coffee. These allow you to adjust the taste profile and intensity of your brew depending on your preference, whether you want a lighter cup or a stronger, bolder flavor.

Is the NC-PS35WSQ suitable for making espresso?

It doesn’t produce true espresso in the specialty sense (with a crema and 9-bar pressure), but it does brew a concentrated coffee using steam spray. If you’re looking for a home-brewed coffee with more body and richness than filter coffee, this machine can deliver that. For true espresso, you’d need a machine with a proper espresso pump.

Does it come with a milk frother?

No, the Panasonic NC-PS35WSQ does not include a milk frother. It focuses on brewing coffee and tea, and if you want to make lattes or cappuccinos, you’ll need to froth milk separately.

Recommended FrontStreet Coffee Beans for Steam Coffee Makers

For use with the Panasonic NC-PS35WSQ, try FrontStreet Coffee’s Classic Blend, designed for strong crema and compatibility with home espresso tools. Its smooth, full-bodied profile works well with steam-extracted coffee. Alternatively, the Black Cocoa Blend offers rich, affordable flavor with solid body—great for those wanting depth without complexity. Both beans are 100% Arabica and suited for home brewing. Freshly roasted within 5 days · Orders placed before 17:00 ship the same day · Next-day delivery across most of Guangdong Province.