The Philips PerfectDraft Review

I was a little late to the party on this one, but about a year ago I decided to invest in a Philips PerfectDraft HD3761/60 beer machine. I’d been wrestling with crates of bottles, cans tucked in every available corner, and the occasional disappointment of flat beer at home. The idea was simple; bring the pub experience into my living room, keep friends and family happy, and save myself a few trips to the shop along the way.

Over the past year, I’ve tried a wide range of kegs through the machine, from crisp lagers to rich stouts, and even a few Belgian ales for the adventurous. I should point out straight away that I have the original PerfectDraft, not the more expensive and feature-rich “Pro” version, so everything here is based on that model.

Save Yourself a Few Quid

This original version is still around and you can still but it, buying this will always save you a few quid and I have never needed the bells and whistles of the more up to date version. I'd keep an eye on Amazon for deals. 

Why I Bought the PerfectDraft

Honestly, it was about convenience first. I wanted something that allowed me to host without faff. Nothing spoils a get-together like someone having to dash to the shop mid-party, or juggling a crate of cans while trying to pour a pint. The PerfectDraft promised draft-quality beer at home, a bit of novelty, and a solution to keeping the beer flowing for longer periods.

Variety mattered too. The original model supports over 60 different beers and ciders, ranging from your everyday lagers to IPAs, stouts, and even Belgian ales. That’s a decent selection for the casual beer drinker, or for a host who likes to offer a little choice without turning the living room into a mini off-licence.

First Impressions and Setup

Unboxing it felt like a proper treat; the build quality is very solid, it doesn’t wobble on the counter, and the materials feel high-quality. Installing the first keg looked a bit fiddly, I won’t lie, and I remember muttering under my breath the first time I tried it… but after a couple of goes it became second nature. Pulling down the tap to pour a pint is satisfying and ridiculously simple, even for a guest having a go.

The machine itself is quieter than a normal fridge. It emits a soft hum, but I’ve hosted plenty of parties where it went unnoticed in the background while conversation and laughter did the heavy lifting.

Pros – What I Love About It

• Build Quality: Sturdy, solid, and doesn’t feel cheap.
• Quiet Operation: Keeps the noise down; you can actually have a conversation.
• Keg Variety: Over 60 beers to choose from, enough to cater for most tastes.
• Ease of Use: Keg installation is straightforward once you get the hang of it; pouring a pint is effortless.
• Convenient Service: Kegs are widely available online and in some local shops, though I mostly order direct from PerfectDraft.
• Beer Tokens for Returns: £5 off your next keg with each returned one; a handy little saving.
• Temperature Control: Keeps beer at a crisp 3°C for up to 30 days, ideal for lagers and most ales.
• Beer Quality: Comparable to a pub pour; no battling with flat bottled beer.
• Cost Effectiveness: Pints come in around £2.10–£3 depending on the beer, far cheaper than paying £7 in Wetherspoons for a comparable pint.

Cons – Things to Bear in Mind

• Temperature Adjustment: My model doesn’t allow variable temps, which could make stouts or heavier ales taste a touch too cold
• Keg Availability: While improving, not every local shop stocks every style; planning ahead is important if you have a big gathering

My Favourite Beers and Experiences

Over the year, I’ve enjoyed a few standout beers through the PerfectDraft. A crisp lager was perfect for an impromptu BBQ in the summer, while a rich stout went down a treat during a quiet night in with a mate watching a match. 

One of my favourite evenings was at Christmas, with the tree up and a few friends round, the tap quietly humming away in the corner as we enjoyed a Belgian ale. There’s something special about pulling a pint yourself, rather than grabbing a bottle from the fridge, and seeing the head form just right.

I’ve also learned a few tips along the way: pre-chilling glasses makes a difference, and staggering keg changes over a multi-day gathering keeps the novelty alive. Rotate styles, and you’ll keep everyone happy and curious about what’s coming next.

Competitors and Comparison

There are a few competing solutions if you fancy something different:

• Krups Sub: Smaller, cheaper, but higher running costs
• Blade: Professional quality, larger capacity, but much more expensive upfront
• Klarstein: Compatible with supermarket kegs, but setup is trickier and the upfront cost is higher
• Homebrew Options: Pinter or miniBrew offer fresh brewing, but require more involvement
• Can/Bottle Dispensers: Machines like Fizzics are fun but limited for regular beer drinkers

Personally, the PerfectDraft hits the sweet spot. It balances cost, convenience, and beer quality perfectly. For someone like me who entertains a fair bit and enjoys a proper pint at home, it’s a winner.

Cost vs Pubs and Supermarkets

I did a bit of number-crunching when I first bought it. The cost per pint is around £2.10–£3 depending on the keg. Compare that to £7 a pint in a Wetherspoons (if you’re lucky) or around £4 in a supermarket, and it becomes clear why it pays for itself after a few gatherings. Returning kegs for the £5 token off also helps plan the next party without breaking the bank.

Seasonal and Entertaining Advantages

I’ll admit, it shines at Christmas. A full living room of friends, the tree lit, mince pies on the side, and the PerfectDraft quietly keeping pints flowing is a joy. Guests always ask about it, and it becomes a bit of a talking point. One year, a friend even pretended to be a bartender, taking orders and pouring his own pints, a small moment, but it shows how it adds atmosphere to gatherings.

Even on quieter weekends, it’s brilliant. You don’t need a special occasion; it’s just nice to pour a pint without faff, whether you’re catching up with a mate or enjoying a quiet night with a proper beer.

Conclusion

The PerfectDraft offers an excellent balance of convenience, variety, and quality. It’s more than just a machine; it’s a conversation starter, a time-saver, and a way to enjoy draft beer at home without constantly running to the shop. If you host, entertain, or just like a proper pint in your own space, it’s worth considering. Just plan your kegs, keep an eye on temperature preferences, and enjoy the process — nothing beats a perfect pour at home.

Rating: 8.5/10