Practical Smart Home

XTREME Home 1.5L Coffee Machine: More espresso, less depresso

I learned to love espresso-making, and learned a whiff of love languages, too

Published

December 23, 2021

MJ Jucutan

Ordering a double shot espresso is something I do when I badly need an extra will to live. Caffeine just gives you the purpose to stay productive and get things done.

I haven’t considered making an espresso at home before. But when the XTREME Home 1.5L Coffee Machine found its way to my kitchen’s countertop, I realized how a small espresso machine can be life-changing for those in love with coffee and the kick it brings.

Foray in making espresso

At home, I own an electric coffeemaker, a capsule machine, a french press, and a cold brew maker. You could say that coffee is one of my love languages — it’s how I prefer to express and receive love. But I’m not a coffee aficionado despite owning different tools and machines.

This is why I enlisted Mark’s help — one of my best friends whom I consider a caffeine-dependent lifeform. We brought the espresso machine and placed it in the Ford Everest Sport’s compartment. It was compact and easy to carry around with its 3kg weight.

We were dead set in using the small appliance instead of a De’Longhi Primadonna for our annual reunion, and boy, we were in love.

Suddenly, the XTREME Home 1.5L Coffee Machine found itself inside the Ford Everest Sport, traveling from the City of Parañaque to the province of Pampanga, and in between the cities of San Fernando and Angeles on a week-long trip.

Easy to figure out

We set up the coffee machine in our breakfast nook on the kitchen countertop, together with the ingredients we pooled together that delight our palates.

Setting the small appliance is child’s play, even for someone who isn’t particular with espresso machines. Out of the box, the coffee machine came with a 1.5L detachable transparent water tank, two dual-stainless steel filters apt for one or two cups, and a plastic coffee spoon.

Further, it’s uncomplicated to use with its simple touch panel control. When plugged, the panel will light up. From there, you can turn it on or off with a power button, choose between a single shot or double shot espresso, or pick the high-pressure frothing function to froth your milk.

When not in use for more than 25 minutes, the machine automatically shuts down. Although, you can easily wake it up with a soft press on its panel.

Warm your heart with a cup of coffee

The XTREME Home 1.5L Coffee Machine uses a die-casting aluminum alloy boiler while packing a 20-bar powerful pressure pump inside. With its materials, the device is protected from overheating and overpressure.

Throughout our week’s use, we didn’t find ourselves having trouble with the heat it produces — and that’s coming from someone who made ten double-shot espressos consecutively for nearly an hour.

You may be shocked that it took nearly an hour for us to prepare everyone’s coffee. But that’s because there were ten of us, and the process is extensive. Although, it takes less than a minute to brew the coffee whether you press the single shot or double shot espresso function.

What took us long in preparing everyone’s morning coffee is the process of changing the coffee grounds, cleaning the stainless steel filter, brewing again, frothing the milk, and even trying to make art.

I’ve originally wanted something naughty to be drawn on top of my coffee, but it might take a while for me to learn how to do it properly. Better tune in to my Instagram so you can get an update. 😂

Nevertheless, during our stint, my best friend Mark introduced us to the art of making your espresso, and the importance of frothing the milk to create a texture that would make your morning coffee gratifying to drink. But there’s more to it than I realize.

Learning love languages through coffee

Despite the long process of preparing coffee, which appears to be tiresome to some people (read: friends who wake up late), I found a sudden appreciation in the art of making espresso.

It’s not just a cup of coffee that will wake you up. The process of making and serving coffee encapsulates what love languages are about.

Early birds who were waiting for their cup of coffee in the morning

The time and effort to make the perfect cup of espresso that will suit your or someone else’s palate is an act of service. Receiving a cup of coffee feels like a gift — especially when the drink’s ready right when you wake up.

Meanwhile, expressing gratitude and hearing praise for serving a delectable coffee fall under words of affirmation. Holding a warm cup imitates the warmth felt when holding someone’s hands — teaching us the love language of physical touch.

Breakfast meals look good when paired with a good cup of coffee

And what I love the most: Quality time. We hang out with our loved ones over a cup of warm coffee, on a sunny morning or a cold afternoon outside. I definitely saw espressos and espresso machines in a new light, and now, it has taken a spot in my heart.

Is this your GadgetMatch?

Whether you’re someone learning to appreciate coffee, transitioning from traditional brewing methods, or just someone who’s fond of caffeine — the XTREME Home 1.5L Coffee Machine can be a great addition to your practical smart home.

It won’t take much space with its compact size. And it’s easy to operate. You don’t have to use your brain cells right away when you’re just starting your day.

Surely, this is an easy recommendation, whether you’re a coffee aficionado, a caffeine-dependent rookie, or a clueless beginner in need of a simple, small coffee machine.

Moreover, the XTREME Home 1.5L Coffee Machine is a small appliance you’d welcome in your life, whatever stage you’re at. It’s perfect for singles who love giving themselves a shot of caffeine any time of the day, couples who found joy dilly-dallying over cups of coffee, or friends sharing their hot goss while sipping espresso like a leveled-up Marites.

The XTREME Home 1.5L Coffee Machine retails for PhP 3,735. It’s available for purchase on XTREME’s concept stores and its official online stores on Shopee and Lazada.

Accessories

Thoughtful gift ideas for modern living: 2025 holiday gift guide

Gift ideas that feel intentional and considered

Published

December 20, 2025

Chay Lazaro

The best gifts aren’t impulse buys nor extravagant. This year’s holiday gift guide is about giving with intention. Each pick was chosen not as a novelty, but as something that adds value to your loved ones’ lives. They support routines, encourage rest, create shared moments, elevate everyday comforts, and provide peace of mind. These are the kind of gifts that feel considered, personal, and truly meant for the person receiving them.

Peace of mind, wherever the day goes

OrbitKey Travel Sling (3L), US$89.90

This sling is designed for moving through the day feeling organized and secure. Along with its compact, structured layout, it includes RFID-protected pockets that help shield cards and personal information from digital theft. It’s ideal for both commuting and traveling and comes in Black, Stone, and Terracotta.

Statik TireHero Smart Tire Pump, US$69.99

This is the kind of gift that helps people feel prepared rather than reactive. Compact and easy to use, it quickly inflates tires at home or on the road. A small tool that offers real reassurance, it’s especially useful for drivers and cyclists alike.

ExpressVPN Aircove Go, US$169.90

This pocket-sized router creates a secure, VPN-protected network anywhere, making public Wi-Fi far safer to use. Ideal for travelers, remote workers, or anyone handling sensitive information on the go. It’s small enough to travel with but powerful enough to protect privacy beyond the home.

OrbitKey Foldable Duffel, US$49

Having an extra bag when you didn’t know you need one can remove a surprising amount of stress and unnecessary expenses. This duffle folds down flat for easy storage, then opens into a 55L bag when packing gets too ambitious and you’re being charged at the airport for your overweight suitcase. It’s reliable, flexible, and quietly reassuring to have on hand.

Thoughtful tech for home and productivity

Native Union WEIGHTER, starts at US$19.99

Sometimes the smallest upgrades make the biggest difference. This weighted desk accessory keeps charging cables from slipping out of reach, reducing friction in everyday routines. It’s a subtle but satisfying improvement for someone who works from home or their messy night stand. It comes in Black and Sandstone, and two models: 1 Cable and 3 Cables.

Rocketbook Core, US$38.99

For someone who loves writing by hand but also wants their notes organized digitally, this reusable notebook allows handwritten notes to be stored in the cloud. It’s great for planners, students, even creatives that don’t want clutter. It combines the satisfying tactility of pen and paper and digital convenience.

Nomad Stand One Max, US$159

Built with Qi2 25W, this charger brings calm to the end of the day. With one solid, beautifully weighted base, it charges the iPhone, Apple Watch, and AirPods in one place. It reduces clutter and decision-making, turning charging into a simple ritual.

Lexar SL500 Portable SSD with Magnetic Set, starts at US$105

Extra storage becomes invaluable once someone starts creating, traveling, or documenting more of their life. This portable SSD offers fast, reliable storage with a magnetic sleeve that makes it easy to attach and carry. It’s ideal for backing up photos, videos, and important files without fuss. It’s a practical gift to support that creative in your life and help them stay organized.

Rituals, wellness, and slowing down

Üllo Original Wine Purifier, US$79.99

For someone who enjoys a glass of wine as part of winding down but hates the headaches that come after: Üllo removes sulfites while aerating the wine. It helps enhance the flavor and aroma of wine while being gentler for those sensitive to additives. Add the hand blown Decanter that’s made from ultra transparent lead-free crystal to make any bottle taste fancier.

La Jolie Muse Season of Stories Trio Set, US$60

With artful vessels and clean-burning soy wax, these candles feel as much like decor as they do self-care. The scents are cozy and ideal for winding down or hosting. It’s a gift that invites pause.

LEGO Botanicals, starts at US$14.99

A calming, screen-free build that becomes a beautiful piece of home decor, each set invites someone to slow down and enjoy the process. With flower bouquets, bonsais, and plants to choose from, it’s a satisfying project that brings a sense of completion without the upkeep of real plants. As an added bonus, if you can build it together it turns the gift into a shared memory, so every time they see the finished piece, they’re reminded of the time you spent creating it together.

Small joys, big upgrades

SURI 2.0 Electric Toothbrush, US$135

This device makes an everyday habit feel more intentional. Created with sustainability in mind, it’s a sleek yet practical gift that elevates anyone’s bathroom shelf. It’s got wireless charging and the redesigned travel case powers UV cleaning on the go. It comes in five colors: Winter Fern, Sea Mist, Sunset Bloom, Midnight Black, and Morning Waves.

XGIMI MoGo 4, US$499

This portable projector makes it easy to turn any wall into a big screen. You can give the gift of a quiet solo night for someone who needs to decompress from work, or movie nights shared with their loved ones. It’s great for a cozy home setup this winter or the outdoors when the weather starts to get warmer.

Eve Flare, US$109.95

Lighting is one of the most overlooked features in any space, but is truly transformative. This smart LED lamp creates soft, customizable ambient light that works indoors or outdoors. It’s perfect for someone who just moved into a new apartment, or that person in your life who cares about mood and intentional design.

Liiton American Peaks Whiskey Decanter Set, US$129

This glassware set transforms drinking into a sensory experience, whether on display or in use. It’s a great conversation piece and makes a nightcap more intentional. Place your glass in the freezer and get chilled and aerated whiskey in just 18 seconds thanks to its proprietary X1 Crystalline Chill Charge System. Made from lead-free crystal, the glassware is sculpted with the majestic U.S. mountain peaks: Mount Whitney, Yosemite, Smoky Mountains, Mount Rainier, and The Rockies.

For growing lives and staying connected

loog mini acoustic, US$129

With fewer strings and a simplified design, kids can start playing real songs quickly without feeling overwhelmed. It builds confidence and creativity while introducing musical fundamentals. It’s a gift that supports learning through play.

Instax Mini Link 3, US$99.99

This gift turns fleeting moments into tangible memories. With a few taps, photos on your phone become physical prints that can be shared, saved, and displayed. In an age where taking photos has never been easier, having physical prints encourages reminiscing without increasing screen time. It’s a wonderful gift for families and friends who love documenting life.

Arzopa Digital Photo Frame, starts at US$99.99

Bring warmth to someone’s home without requiring technical effort. This photo frame is great for that loved one who’s moved far away. Photos can be updated remotely, making it easy to feel closer despite the distance. It comes in two sizes: 10″ and 14″, both with a champagne colored bezel.

Entertainment

The Glow That Changed Everything + Govee TV Backlight 3 Pro GIVEAWAY

Govee TV Backlights past, present, and future

Published

September 25, 2025

Chay Lazaro

Beyond ambiance and well-being, smart lights can make home entertainment more immersive. In this video we’ll deep dive into Govee’s TV Backlights, past and future. Plus, we’re giving away two sets of the yet-to-be-released Govee TV Backlight 3 Pro. Enter via Gleam.io and let me know what your favorite Govee product by leaving a comment on the YouTube video for more chances of winning.

Govee TV Backlight 3 Pro GIVEAWAY

Buyer's Guide

Hisense C2 Projectors: Buyer’s Guide

Best Laser Projectors of 2025?

Published

August 7, 2025

Chay Lazaro and GadgetMatch

Have you ever dreamed of watching a movie under the stars, gaming on a massive screen, or maybe turning your ceiling into a private cinema?

What if I told you that there’s a gadget, or a family of gadgets that’ll help you do that and more?

Whether you’re a casual movie night fan or a hardcore gamer, there’s a Hisense C2 Projector for you.

The C2 Series is part of a lineup of laser projectors from Hisense – a company known for bringing great display solutions to homes without breaking the bank.

Across the three projectors we’re featuring you’re getting triple-laser technology which means the light source uses three separate lasers — red, green, and blue – instead of just one.

You also get 4K resolution with Dolby Vision and HDR10 support, projection size of up to 300 inches, VIDAA Smart OS TV which includes your favorite streaming apps Netflix, YouTube, Disney+ and more.

All three have autofocus and auto keystone correction, a gimbal stand for 360 degree horizontal or 135-degree vertical viewing, and up to 25,000 hours of viewing. This means any of these projectors will last you for a really long time.

SHOP NOW!

Hisense C2

Hisense C2 Pro

Hisense C2 Ultra