Best espresso machines according to redditors

It's a combo of a moka and a stovetop steamer. Pretty sweet find.

It's a Bellman CX-25 Stovetop espresso maker and milk steamer. They retail around $130 (new) on Amazon.


They can be a bit kludgy and you can burn yourself pretty bad if you don't keep your wits about you while you're turning the knobs. I have the milk steamer model and I'm pretty happy with the results.

Here is a video of it in action. At minute 1:23, you will see them shut off the espresso valve once the coffee begins to flow. What they are doing is waiting until the pressure builds and they hear the hissing from the relief valve in the handle of the unit. That signals that the Bellman is ready to steam the milk. They shut off the heat, steam the milk, shut off the steam wand and then turn on the espresso knob to tap the coffee.

Like I said, a bit kludgy, but it's a cost effective way to at least gets you in the ballpark of having something that tastes like an espresso.

Honestly, we have an $800 fancy espresso machine at my work with all the bells and whistles, and it is a grand pain in the ass to use. My $100 DeLonghi machine at home consistently makes a fuller and richer crema and it easy to use. I would recommend that one for a cheap start to try out. Grind fresh coffee, learn to pack it right, and importantly, keep the machine clean!

Similarly, my usual drink of choice was a white chocolate mocha, so $4.25ish.

My sister gave me a cheap espresso machine last year. I get some white chocolate syrup at $30ish for a 6 pack that lasts me roughly 5-6 months, and a 12oz bag of coffee every 3 weeks (maybe, not entirely sure) from the grocery store at $11 a pop. That works out to roughly 65ish cents a cup.

That equals:

• $1200 savings annually
  
• Much more consistent flavor
  
• Healthier -- I probably make a smaller portion and definitely use less syrup
  
• Saves time -- my machine is a slow but it's still faster than stopping by the coffee shop in the morning

Only 50 bucks more on Amazon, if you're not a Costco member.
https://www.amazon.com/Breville-BES920XL-Boiler-Espresso-Machine/dp/B00I6JGGP0?th=1

Pfff

https://www.amazon.com/Wacaco-Company-MPGR100-MiniPresso-Espresso/dp/B00VTA9F6U

Instant is the fastest; Starbucks Via is pretty good, could be too strong for some. It's annoying that it only comes in single packets (in London you can buy tins of it).

Espresso is fast. A handheld espresso like the MiniPresso can make it very quickly. However, it only makes one shot at a time, so to make 4 doubles it takes quite a bit of time to reset for each shot.

Aeropress is likewise fast, but again suffers from the ability to make large amounts at once.

A larger French press can make a decent amount of coffee at once, needing to steep for about 3-4 minutes, and resets pretty quickly. The GSI Java Press comes in a 50oz and is made of Lexan (or was, not sure what it the BPA free is made of now). I've got a couple of older ones and they work well enough.

Or cowboy coffee and a fine strainer.

I'm a little of a coffee snob myself. I moved on from traditional coffee a few years ago in favor of espresso, specifcally 'Americanos' which is simply espresso and water (I'm sure there are different versions of this, but when I say Americano that's what I'm talking about). At Starbucks you'll end up paying over $3 for a grande, which is unnecessary. So I spent the few hundred on an espresso machine and haven't looked back. Americano's are easy to make, super caffeinated and incredibly rich and tasty. What you'll need and how I make mine below:

1. Espresso maker, there's a ton of them. The higher the price the more features it has and the longer it will last, but I'd say you're safe going with something cheap to try it out first. Maybe something like this.
   
   
2. Get a decent espresso, if you buy whole bean just know a traditional grinder won't do. You need it espresso ground - which is much finer. Luckily, you can get it pre-ground. I'm a big fan of Cafe Bustello.
   
   
3. If the espresso machine didn't come with one, you'll want a tamper. Metal works well, but anything that can press the grounds once its in the handle will work well enough.
   
   
4. Water has a lot to do with the quality of the coffee you make. Well filtered or spring water will work best - I myself have a ZeroWater filter at home, which has been great!
   
   
5. Learn how to brew the espresso, its pretty simple but each machine will have different settings. Generally, you put the espresso in the 'handle', use the tamper to press it down (apply just the right amount of pressure, enough so that the coffee is clearly pressed down but not enough that its a brick. You'll learn the right amount of pressure the more you make it).
   
   
6. Depending on the size of the handle (I'm sorry I don't know the proper term for it), it will either be single or double shot. Pay attention to where the espresso will drip from the handle, if you can get a larger, glass measuring cup to cover the two spouts (if its a double), go for it. At home I just two separate shot glasses.
   
   
7. Cleanup, always always ALWAYS clean up directly after brewing your shots. The grounds are very fine, so they get trapped everywhere. The worst thing you want is to brew a fresh shot only to find old grinds at the bottom of the glass.
   
   How I make my morning coffee:
   
   I put a kettle on the stove of fresh, filtered water and begin to boil. Preheat my espresso machine. I make four shots of espresso (this lasts me till noon usually). I use syrup for my sugar and flavor, specifically Torani, they have a great selection with no need to add additional sweeteners. They also come in sugarfree varieties. Put that at the bottom of your mug (or travel mug). Add the shots. Pour the hot water into the shots - this goes more or less by taste. For me, I use a little less water because I'm a coffee-fiend, but you can go as high as 1:2 at first, until you acquire the taste. I then add non-dairy creamer, for a) less lactose and b) it generally makes it creamier, which yes - is odd. Substitute with skim milk, 1/2 and 1/2 or nothing at all.
   
   Lastly - enjoy! Thats some good coffee you got there. I'm not a chugger - my four shots last me a large portion of the day by keeping me going with sips for hours. It's a bit pricey and a little more involved than your regular coffee - and you can totally get by with espresso K-cups and your water coolers hot water to make the whole process much easier, but likely far less delicious. Also - trial and error is a big factor in making it the way I detail above. How much espresso to use, how much pressure you apply when you tamp it, how much hot water - all a matter of taste and trial. Do it enough times and you'll have the whole thing done in five minutes easily.
   
   A note of caution: don't let anyone try it. They will have you be the office barista before you can say ERROR IN DRIVE BAY 0.

I have both a latte / espresso machine at home and I prefer lattes to black coffee at the shops too, so I'll do that math:

I pay 4.50 and give a 1$ tip when I get a latte in the morning, so that comes out to 2007$ a year

Assuming I steam 6oz of milk, that makes a half gallon of good milk (clover, organic, etc) into about 10 lattes. So 10 lattes costs about $4.19 in milk or 0.41$ per latte or 150$ per year

I buy the expensive coffee, which is $17 for 12oz (blue bottle), and do double-shots, which is roughly 15g of beans, so the bag (340g) lasts about 22 lattes, or 0.77$ per latte or 280$ per year.

So a top of the line home-made latte (best milk, coffee) every single day will be roughly 430$ per year,
while going out to a nice cafe (La Boulangerie de San Francisco was my reference for 5$ lattes) will run you 2007$ per year, meaning I save roughly 1577$ a year by making lattes at home or 5.5$ versus 1.18$.

Thus, if you like fancy coffee, within less than half a year this baby pays for itself - also, steaming milk / pulling espresso in the morning has become as much of a wake-up ritual as the coffee itself, and I much prefer it to standing in a line - plus, now that my girlfriend lives with me, that savings number is roughly doubled.

A breville espresso machine. My husband and I just moved back to the US from Europe. We are keeping our place in Europe and we decided we just couldn't go without having one of these so now we have one in each location. It's so frivolous but SO worth it. I use it at least twice daily.

Gaggia Classic - $400 - One of the classic and best cheap espresso machines. Consider trying to find a refurbished or used unit to save money.

You might pair this with:

Baratza Preciso Eletric Grinder - $300 - A reasonable-quality grinder which loosely matches the Classic in budget.

TL;DR: Use fresh-roasted beans from a local roaster, grind them yourself with a burr grinder, use filtered water, and don't cheap out on the brewing equipment.

First of all: /r/Coffee

Now that that's out of the way: What's your goal? Are you just disappointed in how your home-made coffee turns out, and want it to be more like the coffee shop experience?

First, let's talk about the coffee itself, before you add anything to your cup. A good cup of coffee, regardless of whether your goal is just a black cup of joe or a fancy espresso drink, absolutely requires good beans, a good grinder, good water, and a proper brew.

Beans:
-
Ok, obviously, right? Garbage in, garbage out. The problem is that most of what's out there is closer to "garbage" than it is to "great." Beans should be used within a couple of weeks of when they were roasted. That's not snobbery, that's just a fact - roasted beans lose a considerable amount of flavor after the first few weeks, and most of what you'll buy in the grocery store is already weeks old, maybe even months old. Go find a local coffee roaster and buy beans from them. My local roaster charges the same as (or less than) Starbucks for a pound, and the coffee is considerably better.

Grinder:
-
Do not buy pre-ground beans. That bit about using coffee within a couple weeks of roasting? Once you grind it, that drops a lot. You should grind your coffee right before you brew it. However, I would rather use a burr grinder at the time of purchase than use a blade grinder at home. Those will turn some of the beans into fine powder (which will make your coffee bitter), some into big chunks (which will be bland and flavorless). A consistent grind is important, and you can get one from a burr grinder. Use one scoop of grounds per "cup" of coffee (cup is in quote marks because a "cup" of coffee is 6oz, whereas the unit of measure "one cup" is 8oz - your drip maker's carafe should measure by 6oz cups).

Water:
-
Coffee is more than 99% water. It stands to reason that shitty water makes shitty coffee. If your tap water has any flavor to it, use filtered or bottled water. If you use tap water, use only cold water. Or, get a coffee maker with a built-in filter and change it on schedule.

Brewing:
-
Your equipment really matters. The flavors in a coffee bean come out best at right around 200 degrees Fahrenheit, give or take 5 degrees. A colder brew comes out weak, and a hotter brew extracts nasty bitter flavors. Do you suppose a $20 Mr. Coffee brewer achieves the correct temperature and maintains it for the entire brew cycle every time? It probably doesn't. This is even more important with espresso, where pressure is just as important as temperature. Cheap espresso machines rarely give a quality brew. ("Cheap" for an espresso machine, btw, is generally under $400.)

Now What?
-
So, those are the basics. And if you follow them well, you might even find you don't need to add milk or sugar to your cup. Of course, you can - some of the flavors in coffee aren't soluble in water, but they are soluble in fat, so a bit of non-skim milk can actually bring those flavors out.

As for how much cream/sugar to add, well... it's "to taste," as a rule. Taste it black first. Too bold? Add milk. Too bitter? Add sugar. Just a little at a time.

Espresso Drinks
-
Espresso-based drinks (generally anything French or Italian-sounding: espresso, cappuccino, americano, cafe latte, cafe au lait, etc) are tough to make at home, because a good electric espresso machine is expensive, and a good manual one can be even more expensive and much harder to use.

A good compromise is a Moka pot. What it makes is not technically espresso (per the Italian Espresso National Institute), but is very nearly the same. They're generally used stovetop, but electric ones are available.

Once you have your espresso, turning it into something else (cappuccino, americano, whatever) is generally about adding ratios of milk, milk foam, and other ingredients. The milk is heated or turned to foam using steam. Espresso machines generally have the steam wand you need in order to do this. A moka pot will not. You can get a standalone milk frother - some just whip air into it like a hand mixer (though much smaller), others actually use steam (but of course are more expensive).

Use this as a guide to building your espresso drinks.

So what equipment do I use, then?
-
It always bugs me when people give general advice but won't give specifics. So here's what I use at home:

• Grinder: Breville BCG450XL ($99.95) - Grinds well without introducing too much heat, or static electricity (yes, this is a problem with some, and it's obnoxious). They claim the finest setting will work for Turkish, but really it's more of an espresso grind.
  
• Drip Maker: Cuisinart DCC-1200 ($88.49) - Reviews consistently well for evenness and accuracy of temperature. Note: Use the "More Buying Choices" section on the right to find one sold by Amazon.com directly, instead of a marketplace seller - I can't seem to link directly to that listing.
  
• Espresso: DeLonghi DC155 ($84.99) - Has all the flaws of a cheap espresso machine, except it's pump-driven rather than steam-driven (meaning pressure is consistent). Its heat block is also about the best you'll do in this price range. That said, I don't use it often. Making espresso is kind of a pain regardless of your equipment, unless you get a so-called super-automatic machine.
  
  And there you go - that's how to make coffee that's as good as, or better than, coffee shop coffee at home. I know the giant wall of text makes it seem like a lot but really it comes down to the TL;DR at the top.

The most important things are to get a pump-driven (rather than a steam-driven) machine and get a burr grinder. Steam-driven machines will never get to the right temperature or pressure, and it's impossible to get a small enough, consistent enough grind for espresso with a blade grinder. There are tons of affordable options within those parameters, though.

This is not a popular opinion here, but the DeLonghi EC155 is actually a decent starter machine. I got one just to make sure I'd use a home espresso machine enough to justify a better one, and with a little practice to get the right grind and tamp and a couple minor hacks (running a blank shot through first to get the machine up to the right temperature, and removing the fake-crema-making disc from the portafilter) it turns out perfectly acceptable espresso shots. Especially if you're going to turn them into lattes or mochas. That plus a Capresso Infinity burr grinder and a cheap metal tamper (50mm, as the EC155's portafilter is smaller than the standard 58mm tampers) will run you ~$200 on Amazon and you will be happy with the results.

Additionally, if you want to have real espresso on the trail, my research has indicated that this is one of the best manual espresso makers available.

[MiniPresso GR Espresso Maker] (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00VTA9F6U/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_8lftybT2B47SR)

I have 2. Ones a nespresso that someone else in my family purchased (i hate it because you can only use the nespresso pods, and they’re overpriced) and a delonghi single armed espresso machine. the latter was only around $300 and it can pull two shots at a time, you just need to set it up manually. there’s a tank of water in the back that you just refill, and you only have to maintain it once every couple of months. it also has a milk steaming wand on it and i LOVE IT. with all of my coffee mark outs i can literally make any espresso drink with any coffee blend we have at work. hope this helps :))) My machine <3

la pavoni europiccola for $850 manual lever machine

Gaggia and rancillio also good for great shot but slow machines.. so your into only espresso go for la pavoni

You need a grinder as well, the grinder is more important than your machine. The closest acceptable set-up for your budget IMO would be a Baratza Preciso and a Gaggia Classic (a fantastic machine once you get a Silvia steam wand which is not hard to install at all).

The Silvia is a great machine but it isn't worth almost twice what the Gaggia costs, unless you have lots of money laying around, in which case you should probably still get the Gaggia and just get a nicer grinder.

Is this the BES870XL?

Unbelieveable deal at $450

You'll get better-quality shots (and milk) out of a semi-automatic than a superautomatic. If you're set on an all-in-one solution, have a look at the Breville Barista BES870XL

You might have to make your own caramel. You could certainly try the Torani caramel sauce and see if it has the flavor you're looking for.

Buying something like this might get you the espresso and milk you're looking for. Or a Sette 270 and a Gaggia Classic machine (upgrade the steam wand for $30 or so) if you don't mind a separate machine for grinding.

Taticool is over rated

-Jetboil stove

-Coffee Dripper

-Hand espresso maker

-Tub of Stokers Wintergreen

-Camp stool

Even a barebones setup that will be frustrating to use is something like this:

https://www.amazon.com/Gaggia-14101-Semi-Automatic-Pannarello-Cappuccino/dp/B0001KOA4Q - Gaggia Classic ($400)

https://www.amazon.com/Baratza-Sette-Conical-Coffee-Grinder/dp/B01G82WVZ0 - Sette 270 ($379)

Not exactly your $600 window, but not insanely far off.

While it's a decent first machine... the Gaggia Classic, IMO, is frustrating to use...but can make a good espresso shot here and there, but will, in general, not be able to make shots back to back or steam at the same time as making a shot (and honestly not even for a minute or so after very well) and the steam tip is not great...and the portafilter that comes with it is frustrating.

You can do some modifications to the Gaggia Classic to make it better - the ones that come to mind are the Silvia V1 steam wand, a bottomless pressureless portafilter, and a PID to reduce the temperature surfing. These all require more money, time, and skill on your part to mod your machine into something that is significantly better than the out of the box experience.

There's really no way around it that good espresso requires funding. Your local (good) coffee shop probably has a $1500-2750 grinder (or two) and a $9000-18000 espresso machine.... along with all the water filtration and miscellaneous hardware that goes with it.

I was able to get a Gaggia Classic as an Amazon Warehouse Deal for like $250. Right now there's one for $270. Mine was completely unused.

My third batch of cold brew. 2:1 dil coffee:water. 450g of SF Bay French Roast with 3.78L Crystal Geyser.

Recently switched from the office coffees. Keurig to the self operating Gagia espresso machine using Cafe Umbria beans. I'm pretty pleased with what I can make at home.

My guess is that if OP is citing 15 as a magic number, they're using one of those DeLonghi machines that advertises itself as running at 15 bar, as if more bars is better. Like this:

https://smile.amazon.com/DeLonghi-BAR32-Retro-Espresso-Cappuccino/dp/B0002A3S66

It could be a machine limitation as much as a grinder limitation, but the issue being "some of both" wouldn't surprise me either.

It's a Bellman stovetop espresso maker. Unlike a Moka, it's designed to produce pressures in the range of 9bar. Definitely worth eight bucks, if just for an experiment. (If you find that you don't like it, send it my way!)

It's a pricey initial investment at an average price of $750 (with non-trivial monthly costs as well), but the Jura Ena Micro 1 is awesome. I purchased mine on sale over Christmas for $629.

You keep the water tank and bean hopper full, press one button and bamm, best restretto, espresso or coffee you have ever had. This doesn't have a frother or anything, it just makes great espresso and coffee.

Its the simplicity of a K-Cup, but using whole beans. You do have to buy a new $20 water softener/filter about every two months, and maybe a $2 cleaning tablet a month, but that's its. Your are paying those fixed monthly costs for no maintenance.

I think the savings from not using overpriced K-Cups more than covers the filter and cleaning tablet costs. Plus, I get to use ANY whole bean I want.

I used a DeLonghi Dedica for three years and loved it.

https://www.amazon.com/Delonghi-EC680M-Espresso-Machine-Stainless/dp/B00KA8YC6A

Very small footprint

THats a flair Flair Espresso Maker - Manual Press https://www.amazon.com/dp/B06X916JM8/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_7P2zDb8E491AE

Heard it’s hard to make with the manual since you lose heat during the whole process, but if you have the patience of trial and error you’ll save quite a bit of money!

Edit: just realized that’s the pro https://www.flairespresso.com/pro

I second the La Pavoni

https://www.amazon.com/Pavoni-EPC-8-Europiccola-Espresso-Machine/dp/B00004S9G8/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1494378768&sr=8-1&keywords=la+pavoni

I prefer not having a spring.

I bought a $500 espresso machine and it sits unused in a closet. What we're saying is that good home espresso machines are very expensive.

Now, if you want espresso like coffee, you might try a Vietnamese Coffee Maker.

You can try an aeropress, which I don't particularly care for, but makes small, strong coffees.

Now, I've heard good things about the mypressi, but haven't had a chance to try one. This is probably the cheapest decent espresso shot puller you can find.

For a true espresso machine, /r/coffee recommends the Baby Gaggia. I haven't tried this one, either.

I think the bog standard espreso machine falls between:
The Gaggia Classic $387 and the Rancilio Silvia $629
You already have a great grinder. you could save up a bit for a plumed semi-commercial E61 machine $1500-$2000+

Keurig is still a step up from your usual drip coffee sludge. The problem here is that the market of homebrewers is a lot smaller than coffee drinkers and the cost barrier is a lot higher. A starting out coffee drinker is probably willing to spend a hundred bucks to get a better cup of coffee, then maybe move on to something better later on. This thing requires an investment comparable to what you would for a high end all grain system and a keggerator. How many new brewers are going to be willing to do that when they might do two beers and then give up?

My take is that this thing would only be worth having if I built it myself. Then it's more in the vein of an automated HERMS system, which is something I could see doing some day.

WLL sells the older model Classic.

I'm not sure if all US models (i.e. from Amazon) are like this or not, but some of the Classic experts here should be able to enlighten you.

Depends on your budget. A few that I've seen /r/Coffee recommend are:

Saeco Aroma

Gaggia Classic

Crossland CC1

But keep in mind that the Grinder is more important than the machine. A solid coffee grinder that can offer a consistent find grind will cost you at least 300 bucks.

Also, you should look into tamping, understanding PIDs, and knowing about different portafilters and what they are capable of.

Espresso is the last thing I'm planning to touch because of the sheer effort and spectacularly high price requirements for a college student such as myself.

Agree. The old fashioned way is the best way. But if you just want to spend money buy something like this Delonghi Expresso Maker.

Price range will dictate alot of this.

My wife and I got the De'Longhi EC155 a couple Christmases ago. When we got it we passively enjoyed coffee and lattes (very low standards).

But its been like a gateway drug and we've been piecing together our coffee arsenal. Like the other poster said though, the grinder will make a bigger difference.

You can get small espresso machines with steam wands for fairly cheap, like this one for $90. Then you can make all the lattes your heart desires! (Granted you have espresso beans and a grinder.)

My De'Longhi espresso machine's recently taken to "leaking." As the water heats to ideal temperature for brewing, it sounds like a valve or internal component isn't closing, so there's a hissing sound and water leisurely drips down into the catch for some period of time before it rights itself again. I don't know how to fix the problem or even where to start, so help would be appreciated!

You know, if you have the time to make them in the mornings, you should invest in an espresso machine with a milk steamer to make your morning mochas. You can get a nice automatic one that still makes espresso with excellent crema by Nespresso for $111 on amazon plus the cost of a milk steamer or frother and the pods. Or you can get something nicer that is more manual like this De'Longhi espresso machine with milk wand. In the long run, it's way cheaper to make these things yourself even if you are doing fancier espresso based drinks vs plain black coffee.

I bought this guy as a cheap machine a while back. Twice the price as your Mr. Coffee.

http://www.amazon.com/DeLonghi-EC155-Espresso-Cappuccino-Maker/dp/B000F49XXG/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1347649968&sr=8-1&keywords=delonghi+ec155

Delonghi EC155. It was an okay machine at first, espresso okay with its pressurized basket and steamed okay milk with its little plastic attachment. I bought a non pressurized basket and changed the steam wand out along with chopping off the bottom where the basket goes.

NIGHT AND DAY DIFFERENCE especially with the new basket. It made okay espresso before with fake crema but NOW IT DOES IT FOR REALS.

Also my grinder wasn't cutting it much anymore (bodum burr grinder) so I just hooked up my power drill to my kyocera hand grinder and that works like a charm until I can afford a better grinder

Edit: For anybody interested in the new basket it is this basket: (MP68) La Pavoni Europiccola/Professional - Millennium Model Double Shot Basket

Also steam wand is (R_1054) Rancilio Silvia Steam Wand I don't recommend if you are not mechanically inclined, I had to basically take apart the entire unit to swap it out.... but the pressure now is AMAZING.

I have the DeLonghi Ec155 and love it. I still only have a blade grinder because the espresso machine was a birthday gift and I haven't saved up the money for a good burr grinder yet, but it still tastes great. It does have a milk frother, but its a bit awkward to use because the stem is so short, so I sometimes just use the AeroLatte milk frother.

I have had it for a few years now and I think it makes great espresso. It has 15 bar pressure, not just pump driven like some of the espresso machines out there. I did mess my first one up by leaving it on milk frothing mode for 2 hours, and fried something. That was a problem with the newer ones and they fixed that issue and sent me a new one for free.

The only problem is finding a correct size tamper. It does have a plastic tamper on the upper right, but I wanted to get a free standing one. I had to settle and get one that is slightly too small.

I'm usually asleep by 9:30 - 10:00. Anything later i'm trash the next day. I will also lay out my clothes the night before, by laid out I mean in a pile on the floor in the bathroom. Nothing fancy. I will usually shove down a banana, have a cup of coffee which usually gets things moving bathroom wise for twosies (If it's a onesies I'll pull over somewhere). If it's a longer run I'll do overnight oats.

Coffee wise I'll do espresso or cold brew. The espresso machine is pretty cheap and fast. This is one I use now. I'll also use coldbrew if I don't want the espresso.

I hope this helps and good luck!

okay from what you said, it seems she's not big on straight espresso, and she prefers milk drinks. This is good for you, since if you're making sugary milky drinks, the espresso doesn't have to be quite as good.

Now I may get flamed for this, but I picked up a Mr. Coffee steam espresso maker at Target for $20 on black friday. This is the one

The espresso that comes out of this is not very good by itself, but it comes with a small milk steamer on the side so you can make lattes/cappuccinos. Again, if you're not flavoring them, it's not great, but with the flavor syrups they actually come out pretty decent. I would suggest getting the following:

Mr. Coffee Steam Espresso Maker - this can also be found at target/walmart/etc

A small milk frothing pitcher - I picked mine up cheap at TJ Maxx

Some vanilla coffee syrup for her lattes - This can be found at some grocery stores and such

and if you really wanna go the extra mile, buy some espresso, whole milk, and caramel syrup (the kind you put on ice cream) and make her a caramel macchiato yourself. It's not too hard, here's a recipe: http://recipecircus.com/recipes/Joy/BEVERAGES/Topsecret_Starbucks_Carmel_Macchiato.html Just make some espresso, add vanilla syrup, top with the frothed milk, and drizzle with the caramel sauce

Thank you so much! and yup! I got it off amazon and its the best one I've ever had. Here is the link :) https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001CNG7RY/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1

> Would you say the bean grinding machines are over complicated?

You're not going to get an automatic bean to cup for lower than £200, and that's when they're on sale. The lower-tier DeLonghi models I can find on Amazon are currently £300. I personally a few weeks ago got a second-hand Delonghi bean-to-cup from eBay for £150, but this required me regularly checking for new listings and I got lucky on this one :)

At /r/coffee they will usually shun automatic bean to cup machines like these and suggest a separate grinder and espresso machine - however, these are also pricey.

Another consideration is how much more it costs to cheap out on instant coffee or pod-based machines. My Dad justified buying a £375 bean-to-cup machine to my mum by doing the maths in an Excel spreadsheet (he's a bit of a dork).

He found that switching from Nespresso Gold to a bean-to-cup with fresh beans would pay for itself in 2.5 years (including buying the beans at £12/kg, when in fact you can get good ones from Hema for £8/kg, the number of filters and descaling chemicals required, and taking out a 5 year extended warranty). The numbers are even better when you compare it to a pod-based machine.

You need to have room in your budget for a grinder. That being said, that would put the Astra out of your preferred budget. But it does seem like an excellent machine for the price point (no experience here).

If you're wanting to do primarily milk drinks, and concerned about ease, the Brevillle Double Boiler is <$1,000 now. But that leaves no room for a decent grinder - the Breville Smart Grinder Pro is about all that would fit into your budget. A nice upgrade on grinder to a Baratza Sette 270 will set you back another $200.

If you need to save money, consider the Breville Infuser rather than the DB.

Lots of folk will encourage you to look at more commercial duty machines that have simpler maintenance, and in the long run they're correct. But if you only have what you have, that's a pretty good bang for your buck. The machine will probably not be as long-lasting as one of the E61 HX machines, but there's not many out there in your budget. There are a few, like the Lelit Mara but that one doesn't have a very long history like some of the more commonly-recommended machines (that are also more pricey).

Dispute the collections. Period. They will have to go back to the original debtor for proof of validity of that debt. In that process maybe something will happen that will show that you shouldn't be paying that debt. Remember, burden of proof falls on THE COLLECTOR, not on the debtor. Certainly it's helpful to have proof you don't owe the debt, but they have a larger responsibility.

$150 on starbucks. That means you go to starbucks literally every single day. I used to average ~$4/drink, so at that price it's almost 38 drinks. My wife and I bought a Starbucks verismo machine a few years ago and turned our $4 coffee into $2. That was until we decided we were ruining the earth with our pods use (4/day) and spending too much money, even though we make plenty of money. We went out and spent $750 on a Jura espresso maker that allows us to have everything we want. We went from spending $120/mo. on pods to $20/mo on coffee beans. Not only is the drink a billion and one times better than anything a Starbucks barista could dream of making, it's more consistent, and we get more choice in coffee since we can buy anything we want. Now our morning lattes cost us closer to $0.70, which includes the cost of flavored syrup and the milk. The machine may have cost us a ton of money, but saving $100/mo means it paid for itself in just over 7 months. Consider the idea that if you MUST have your daily coffee, which we must, you need to STOP going to Starbucks, and do something similar to what we did. We still buy syrup at Starbucks, especially since I love Cinnamon Dolce. Imagine cutting your $150 to $25 by buying a good machine for home use, and allowing it to pay for itself over time. But again, this is if you MUST have your coffee. I am always a proponent of spending a large chunk of money if it will save in the long run.

$150/mo for clothes sounds high, but as others have said, I'm a guy and haven't spent money on clothes in a long time. It's not a budgeted item. Do you really NEED $150 in clothes every month?

Other than that, you've got great savings goals. Best of luck!

https://imgur.com/a/Vom8lPv

This is what the current set up looks like. I have some saucers/cups from a great company out of Los Angeles NotNeutral. They're designed wonderful, it's been hard finding a consumer maker of more modern designed espresso cups and they've got some great design. After that is a Breville Barista Express. I'm pulling an espresso blend from a UK roaster called Redemption Roasters. Aside from the quality beans they have an amazing ethos and company vision, highly recommend all coffee lovers read up on what they do and how they do it.

Also pictured is the Behmor 1600 Roaster. I have been learning how to roast and the folks over at r/roasting have been an incredibly help. I am usually pulling single origins that I have roasted myself but I'm leaving for vacation soon and a friend was kind enough to gift me the Redemption beans!

We got a nice one for our engagement gift, let me ask my fiancé the brand of it: Edit it’s a Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine, BES870XL https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00CH9QWOU/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_m31RDbK8GYJAR

Don't know if this helps but I see the stainless steel on sale for $459.99 on Amazon right now. https://www.amazon.com/Breville-BES870XL-Barista-Express-Espresso/dp/B00CH9QWOU

Decided to check out thebay.com... did a quick/dirty search for a mid-end espresso machine, found a Breville BREBES870XL on their site and one on Amazon.ca

Thebay.com Regular $799, on sale for $680 + $30 express shipping.

Amazon.ca Regular price $799, on sale for $599, Free shipping for Amazon Prime members.

Since both The Bay and Amazon are owned by American companies, I feel no particular reason to spend and extra $111 with The Bay just because the US private equity fund that owns them is trying to squeeze my "national pride" for a few extra bucks.

Get a breville and grind the beans separately. Having a machine that does both is risky, because if any part breaks you are kind of screwed. That being said, http://www.amazon.com/Breville-BES870XL-Barista-Express-Espresso/dp/B00CH9QWOU/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1427815454&sr=8-1&keywords=breville+espresso
is a work horse and I would suggest it to anyone.

I've personally never used a Rancillio Silvia but before you buy any gear, I'd recommend viewing the reviews [here] (http://coffeegeek.com/reviews/consumer/rancilio_silvia) at Coffee Geek, link directs to Silvia reviews. I used this site a lot before I took the plunge and I'd imagine Silva users here would be more than happy to share their experiences. From my own research I can say that both machines have single boilers systems and that the stock wand in the Rancillio is far superior for making micro foam for lattes, flat whites ect. As mentioned you can mod a Gaggia Classic's wand to attach a Rancillio wand, see my old set up and notice the Rancillio wand. It cost £10 and took five mins to do 10/10 would do again.

The grinder that you linked was one that I was researching while I was looking into my own gear, for espresso I think the £200 would be better spent towards a more capable grinder imo. But again I've linked some reviews of it for you to view.

Going back to other grinders; here are four which are typically good for espresso Gaggia MDF, Rancillio Rocky, Baratza/Mahlkonig Encore and Baratza/Mahlkonig Vario.

On a side note, I believe that Baratza (manufactures of the Vario and Encore trade under the name Mahlkonig in the UK - which is an amazing brand that you see the predominantly in cafes) and the brand has released a new line of grinders this year and you'll probably be able to find a good deal on the older models for cheaper.

But to give you my personal advice; with a £500 budget you could pick up a Gaggia Classic for about £230 then have a nice budget to get a quality grinder such as a Rocky for around £230 too. Together these would be a kick ass set up and you'll have around £40 spare to get mugs, portafilters, cleaning kit, Rancillio Mod kit, tamper, milk pitcher and (of course) coffee!


This would be a better set up imo rather than dropping your whole £500 on a Rancilio Silvia (they're very expensive).


Hope this helps, happy to answer more questions!


edit - Rancillio mod kit link added

For a long while I was approximating a latte using pod espresso from a Nespresso Vertuoline and Aeroccino Plus. It made a serviceable drink; not cafe-quality, but quick and easy. Plus, the whole setup cost me less than $200 after a Black Friday sale a couple years ago. My biggest issue with this setup was that the froth from the Aeroccino isn't great and I found that it didn't get the milk quite hot enough. I also was getting sick of the same, limited variety of espresso pods available from the Vertuoline (as of right now, only two types).

Recently I decided to step up my coffee game a bit. For the last 4 months I've been making double lattes using a Breville Dual Boiler I bought off eBay for about $800. The first few weeks I was using a hand-me-down Baratza Encore, thinking that all warnings on /r/coffee about using the Encore for espresso were just people being finicky. I was wrong -- brewing espresso is straight-up EXTREMELY sensitive to grind. After upgrading to a Baratza Vario, I've been happily making single-origin espresso every morning. All told, I ended up dropping about $1500 on this setup.

After a lot of browsing I realized that there's an almost continuous spectrum of home-use espresso machines from low- to high-end. From my perspective, the Breville was was a nice compromise between price and features. It's not a Rocket or La Marzocco and I'm sure there's a significant difference in quality, but I'm still learning and it works well-enough.

Hope you find something that meets your needs!

This looks great, so I looked up some reviews. There may be some issues after only a short while pertaining to leakage, cleaning out properly to prevent mold and it breaking after heavy usage.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/cr/B00VTA9F6U/?filterByStar=critical&pageNumber=1

Like this?

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00AV1E0GI

or this?

http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00004S9G8

correct me anyone else if i'm wrong, but as far as i can tell this machine is not a "lever" machine in the manual sense - the lever is basically controlling the pump/valves for the brew/steam functions - it is essentially a semi-automatic. if you want a full manual machine this is probably one of the cheapest ones: even more expensive!

Double boiler. Nice.

I got this, which I guess is more than $200 like I thought (Christmas gift). Still, it looks cozy and brews well.

https://www.amazon.com/Gaggia-Semi-Automatic-Pannarello-Cappuccino-Frothing/dp/B0001KOA4Q

Is this what you're referring to? Wouldnt I need a coffee grinder as well then?

I had a Gaggia Classic imported via US Amazon last year. I’ve been using it as is (no electrical converter) twice a day for over a year now. Love it! I upgraded the factory steam wand to the Rancilio Silvia by watching YouTube tutorials. Also, if you check my post history, I asked a similar question in r/coffee last year.


Here’s a link:

Gaggia 14101 Classic Semi-Automatic Espresso Maker. Pannarello Wand for Latte and Cappuccino Frothing. Brews for Both Single and Double Shots. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0001KOA4Q/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_JN1sDb1AW1EJH

Budget the grinder first. Since you're OK with used, I recommend the Coffeegeek Buy/Sell/Trade forum. The Silvia is a very nice machine, but I think the price has gotten a little high. I've tasted and enjoyed the output of a Le'lit PL041, which is a very similar machine. I can't speak to its durability, though. I owned a Gaggia Classic for a long time and it was a great machine. It was modified with a PID controller for better temperature control.

I think either of those is a better deal than a Silvia and leaves more budget for a grinder, which is far more important than the machine. All the machines at this price point are a little finicky; a great grinder will make a much bigger difference than any of the differences between the individual machines.

I have been lurking around this sub for months researching my first espresso machine. The gist of what I found is:

• super automatics don’t produce quality espresso and are not worth the hassle (too much work to clean and maintain)
  
  
• Gaggia classic is the entry level in espresso machines. Anything below that won’t give you decent espresso no matter what.
  
  https://www.amazon.com/Gaggia-14101-Semi-Automatic-Pannarello-Cappuccino/dp/B0001KOA4Q/
  
  
  
• you need a good grinder (with burrs not blades) and good beans (fresh roast and fresh ground).
  
  Welcome to the rabbit hole of espresso drinks :)
  
  Edit for formatting and adding link to Gaggia Classic.

Seattle Coffee Gear are just an operation aimed at shifting lots of machines. I wouldn't necessarily trust their advice (or at least I wouldn't rely on it wholly given that their main aim is to get you to buy, not necessarily buy the right thing). The grinder is not really espresso suitable, and to suggest it "matches" the machine it is embedded in is slightly disingenuous of them.

$600 is not a bad budget for setting yourself up. Buying used would get you a very decent set up for that money (check my recent post history for a link to a long ramble on how to do that). But if you are buying new, I'd look seriously at my grinder first (its the most important bit of your set up) and aim for something like this as a grinder - the Lelit P53 is a really decent entry level espresso grinder and currently exceptionally priced http://www.1st-line.com/store/pc/Lelit-PL53-Fred-Espresso-Coffee-Grinder-doserless-stepless-12p1979.htm An alternative might be the Baratza Preciso, which sells as a refurb on the Baratza site for around $249 when they have stock in. Baratza have a reputation for excellent customer service, so you can buy refurb from them with a lot of confidence.

That would leave $350-370 for a machine, which would get you this http://www.amazon.com/Gaggia-14101-Classic-Espresso-Stainless/dp/B0001KOA4Q/ and leave you some spare change for some coffee beans. Or you could buy the original Classic model for a few $$ more which some coffee geeks seem to rate slightly more than the 2015 model - there are some here http://www.amazon.com/GAGGIA-CLASSIC-ESPRESSO-COFFEE-MACHINE/dp/B0000C72XS

The Classic is a...classic. Its a massively known and understood machine, with a huge user community able to advise and help on its quirks and foibles. Its capable of being hacked and modded to improve its performance, and even unpacked is a pretty decent bit of kit to start out and learn on.

Having said ALL of that, if what you want to do is to make caramel lattes, espresso quality and upgradeability may not be your primary concern, as milk and sugar mask espresso pretty well, which may mean that - in fact the Barista Express is indeed the best option out there for you :-)

To be honest you can't buy anything that makes real espresso for anywhere near that price. This is the cheapest machine I could recommend buying that is labeled as an espresso machine. I would look into an Aeropress, It makes a very strong espresso like coffee, as it uses some pressure. It's honestly your best option around that price. You can go the moka pot route which blabberingparrot mentioned; however, these are a little more difficult to use and require a stove. Another good option at the price point, but not espresso, is a Chemex, amazing way to make strong black coffee. French press as well.

Gaggia Classic might be what you're looking for. Baratza encore can work for espresso grinds, but if you can you may want to go for the higher up models in Baratza's line.

What would you recommend as an alternative? For the same price, it sounds like I could get something like a entry-tier pump driven espresso machine (Delonghi BAR32, EC155, or similar) only, and still need to buy a grinder. From what I've seen, it doesn't appear to be too difficult to get the capsules (around 60-70c each though), although there are limited options because it can only make espresso.

> I bought myself a bar32 delonghi for ~99 bucks in december from amazon.

Is this the one you bought?

I have the cheap an inexpensive De'longhi

http://www.amazon.com/DeLonghi-EC155-Espresso-Cappuccino-Maker/dp/B000F49XXG/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1395839459&sr=8-2&keywords=delonghi+espresso

You make an excellent point. So I guess its get the coffee that tastes good and mix it with the espresso shot. Thanks for the info :)

Broke college student here, I'm also a barista that's use to having amazing, freshly roasted coffee. So far, no one has lied. AMAZING espresso IS expensive. But can you make a latte as well as your local cafe? With a little practice, time and money, yes.

My current home setup consists of a Delonghi EC155, this is a true espresso machine, it's not steam powered and with a little modification and practice makes good espresso. Modification wise the only thing I'd recommend is depressurizing the portafilter basket, which is easy. If you ever want a better machine but don't want to spend the money you can modify it even more. They're vary popular machines and can be modified to pull amazing shots. They go anywhere from 70-130, however, occasionally things get repacked or the packaging gets damaged in the warehouse. They'll offer them at a hefty discount, I just got mine "reboxed" from amazon for 47 dollars, wait a few days and one will come up. If you use your student email you can get Amazon Prime for free, take advantage of that.

http://www.amazon.com/DeLonghi-EC155-Espresso-Cappuccino-Maker/dp/B000F49XXG/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1396498476&sr=8-1&keywords=delonghi+ec155

I also got this tamper, works well, it's a little light for my tastes but for home use it's fine. The EC155 has a 52mm basket, if having a 50mm tamper bothers you then pay the extra few bucks for a 52mm tamper. Personally doesn't bother me, and it was only 7 bucks.

http://www.amazon.com/Espresso-Tamper-Sizes-Alloy-Coffee/dp/B0001XRNEM/ref=pd_bxgy_k_text_z

Here's a milk frothing cup, you'll need it to properly froth milk. You can poorly froth milk in a microwave but why do that when you can spend an extra 8 dollars and do it properly? I personally got mine for a dollar from a thrift store.

http://www.amazon.com/Update-International-EP-12-Stainless-Frothing/dp/B000MR6I9I/ref=pd_bxgy_hg_text_y

I got one of these grinders years ago for around 20 dollars. I've seen them used, repackaged, and refurbished for about that much. Wait around and a deal will come up. You can also get a Hario Mini and a number of other hand grinders. But this one does just fine. Now out of the box it won't grind fine enough for espresso, however, with about 20 minutes worth of work you can shim it and it'll grind perfectly for espresso. It's not hard and anyone can do it with a screw driver and some tin foil.

http://www.amazon.com/Cuisinart-DBM-8-Supreme-Grind-Automatic/dp/B00018RRRK/ref=sr_1_1?s=home-garden&ie=UTF8&qid=1396498766&sr=1-1&keywords=cuisinart+grinder

At this point if you're willing to wait for a deal on the EC155 you've only spent 107 dollars. Even less if you're willing to wait on a deal for the burr grinder as well. If you want AMAZING coffee you can spend another 27 dollars and get an Aeropress, or wait for a deal and get it for 20 dollars. It will make a coffee concentrate which will taste "okay" for a latte.

At this point, I cannot recommend going to your local coffee houses and asking if you can buy green beans. They typically sell green coffee for 5-8 dollars a pound. You can roast your own coffee with a skillet and a whisk, or a popcorn popper, there are hundreds of ways to do it cheaply and it easy. You'll save money and you'll be drinking tastier coffee.

Don't let these people get you down, good espresso doesn't have to be expensive. Feel free to message me if you have any questions!

DeLonghi EC155 15 Bar Pump Espresso and Cappuccino Maker: Cheap and fast, and can be had for ~ 40$ today, using Amazon's coupon OCTGET20.

So I was recently gifted a Delonghi EC155 which I do love and as far as my beginner tastes go, decent espresso.

However I was reading on the Amazon reviews and I am really confused on how the grounds should be packed in the portafilter and the instructions don't help much.

So I load the grounds do a light tamp so it's even (like the instructions say) but the grounds ALWAYS come out soggy and there for make it a pain to clean. I always thought they were supposed to come out more like a puck that falls out easier, am I doing something wrong?

De'Longhi EC155 15 BAR Pump Espresso and Cappuccino Maker by DeLonghi http://www.amazon.com/dp/B000F49XXG/ref=cm_sw_r_udp_awd_tjOXtb0F4PE0Y

Yeah I'll X-post it.

I am using this.

Delonghi is the best cheap brand. I have a $250 that I love, not sure about sub $100, but quick amazon search shows this one as an option:

De'Longhi EC155 15 BAR Pump Espresso and Cappuccino Maker https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000F49XXG/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_8EhACbX9DB7FK

Edit: also, spend $20 and get a stainless steel tamper. So much better than the plastic ones they include.

It took me a long time to make a perfect cup of coffee. Here is what I do:

• 1. freshly roasted beans (under one week old). I do my own at home.
     
• 2. grind espresso (fine) right before you brew. [Grinder]
     (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001QTVXCS/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1)
     
• 3. find an espresso machine and brew it. Stop when dark color fades, and add warmed cream.
     
     Here is a 10 minute Ted Talk on: The culinary art of coffee

I got this and am incredibly happy with it:

http://www.amazon.com/DeLonghi-EC155-Espresso-Cappuccino-Maker/dp/B000F49XXG?SubscriptionId=0K76CZ6RCX2Y05HSNPR2&tag=plp-sdc-wtb-20&linkCode=xm2&camp=2025&creative=165953&creativeASIN=B000F49XXG&ascsubtag=espresso-machines

My favorite drink was a latte made using the office's DeLonghi Espresso Machine.

I got very, very good at it.

If I was feeling carbonated, though, I'd get Coke Zero or Diet Mt. Dew.

Well then! Back in High School, I was in the Marching band. Additionally, I was also in Jazz band as a drummer / percussionist. One of my most favorite moments was when the band director (also a drummer / percussionist) let me bring my drumset to a football game. Needless to say, this pissed off the drumline (not that I really cared) and the "drum line instructor." I loved playing my set in front of the crowd at games :).

I wish you the Most wonderful time at school and good luck with year 3! I think everyone needs one of these at school. Or anywhere really :P

Thank you for the contest!

I have the De'Longhi EC155 15 BAR Pump Espresso and Cappuccino Maker. It had the best reviews for a cheap consumer machine. If I had the cash to spend I would get an expensive one... alas, I just bought a house and I feel as though I will never have money to spare again...

You can get something like this for around $300-400 used, and it is pretty good for the price.

The problem is that you can't really buy preground espresso, and espresso grinders start at $300 so finding a setup for $100-200 is nearly impossible.

That said, if you really must have decent espresso for under $200, get this Delonghi for $90 and a Hario hand grinder for $25. You'll have decent espresso, but it will be a lot of work.

I've had this for about 6 months:

De'Longhi EC155 15 BAR Pump Espresso and Cappuccino Maker

$81.79 down from $140

It really is great for an introductory machine, I've had no complaints. :)

http://forums.macresource.com/read.php?1,410733,410806

http://www.amazon.com/Mr-Coffee-ECM160-Espresso-Machine/dp/B000U6BSI2/ref=sr_1_6?ie=UTF8&qid=1323911978&sr=8-6

http://www.amazon.com/Velocity-10-Cup-Coffee-Brewer-Black/dp/B000FFQ4TG/ref=sr_1_25?ie=UTF8&qid=1323912013&sr=8-25

If you still aren't convinced I can't help you.

Your best bet is to go to a thrift store and pick up a steam-toy "espresso" machine. You know the ones, typically cost about $50. They don't make espresso at all but they actually don't do too bad a job of blowing steam out the wand, all things considered.

Try to find one with as little garbage ("foam helper") on the end of the steam wand as possible, and hopefully removable

Edit: something like this, but used & therefore cheaper

Well, I'm in the same boat. I bought this cheap Mr. Coffee "espresso" machine and it works alright. I have more trouble figuring out the proportions for a good tasting drink but it serves for the price. Looking back I would have spent a little more money and bought a better one.

Order one of these and learn how to use it. It will be far better than what you can buy somewhere.

Read up on roasts and how different roasts taste. I like medium myself. Dark is good. Light isn't my fav. If you like milk, make a latte (order a milk foamer if you want to be fancy, they're cheap). Try out what you like!

IIRC you'll need a stamping tool, I don't think it's included.

Delonghi Magnifica

https://www.amazon.co.uk/DeLonghi-Magnifica-ESAM-4200-S-Silver/dp/B001EOMZ5E/ref=sr_1_4

I use this stainless steel moka pot, and if my purchase was a bit more considered would have got this one to save a few bucks and only have one pot. If you pack the grinds it will make some crema but you're only getting about 2 bars of pressure from any stovetop device. I'm happy with the results from such a low cost solution.

Go for the espresso maker! We have this cheapy one and it works great. There's probably even cheaper ones that get the job done.

They can be "compared", in the sense that they're closer to top-end in espresso making ability than this is.

> Yeah I was looking into some machines but I didn't really know any quality ones. One of them was like a keurig machine but the thought of having to buy the little capsules was a turn off. Another one I saw had a milk frother but I'm pretty sure you guys could recommend a better one, I'll link it down below.

Yeah, that sucks. Personally, if you want a pre-arranged system, I'd go for the Illy/Francis Francis pair. But you can get a good pressurized basked machine for, like, 300 or 400 bucks and even use standard pre-ground coffee. It's not gonna be as good as a really good machine, but you might never know if you never get a coffee from a 1000$-machine.

> Also, in terms of the grinder, are beans ever sold already ground? Because I've never really seen people with a grinder usually they just have a coffee machine. Mind you, nobody i've seen is as into coffee as the hobbyists here.

Where I am, they are - at my supermarket, there are some beans you can only get pre-ground.

> http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B007K9OIMU?psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=ox_sc_act_title_1&smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER

I'd say you won't get super happy with that machine.

The reason is that when something is automated in a coffee machine, it will be consistent, but of worse quality then the same with manual control.

That applies both to espresso and the milk. Manual control allows you to make the little teeny tiny steps better, which results in way better quality. Also, I'd never trust an automatic milk frother.

I got the Breville Infuser and Smart Grinder Pro from Amazon a couple of weeks ago. I love them. By no means am I an expert, but I enjoy the shots I pull just as much as from coffee shops using La Marzoccos. Yes the beans, barista, and placebo all play into that, but it still pulls a great shot and is pretty affordable. You could even go cheaper and get the Duo Temp Pro which could functionally be the same as the Infuser and is $100 cheaper so you could spend it on cups, knockbox, distributor but the infuser would still put you under budget. I went with the infuser because you can adjust the temperature and you can pull manually or preset volume, which allows you to eliminate that variable for a consistent shot and you can see how your tamp/grind are as the program pulls 60mL (2oz) no matter what and so you can gauge what you need to do to dial that volume in for the proper extraction time. Downside is that if you want a naked portafilter then you gotta DIY or buy one from Aus for like $150, but I don’t think it’s a huge deal and if you do then maybe that’s where your extra budget could go. The pressure gauge is also nice although it won’t really tell you what you don’t already know from extraction time.

I can’t say this is the best machine for the price (although Seattle Coffee Gear did so take that as you will) but I can highly recommend it. I would get it over the Barista Express as the extra $50 for a dedicated grinder is totally worth it as it is more versatile and I’ve heard it’s a better grinder than the built in one. I also recommend it over the Gaggia. Although it does not have the modabilitiy of the Classic, it has most of the features that people mod the Gaggia for already, plus it uses a traditional steam arm instead of a panarello like the Gaggia, and has stainless steel lined thermocoil instead of aluminum thermoblock.

Overall would definitely recommend going separate grinder and machine no matter what.

Well...this one's pricey but if all you want is espresso or americanos, it makes the best I've tasted from an automatic machine. I got one for my parents.
https://www.amazon.com/JURA-13626-Jura-Ena-Micro/dp/B008RZFQKO

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B008RZFQKO/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1472842921&sr=8-1&pi=SY200_QL40&keywords=Jura+ena&dpPl=1&dpID=41BI66egggL&ref=plSrch

Friends of mine have this one, and it's pretty great.

I know you're looking for something under $500, but if you could save a little more, this would be an a great espresso machine to get. The steam wand would be stronger, which would allow you to get micro foam for latte art. Also, it has a decent grinder for espresso, which is SUPER important. You don't just want a "decent grinder", you need a grinder that will grind good for espresso.

https://www.amazon.com/Breville-BES870XL-Barista-Express-Espresso/dp/B00CH9QWOU/ref=sr_1_2?s=home-garden&ie=UTF8&qid=1524237611&sr=1-2&keywords=brewville

I've been using the Breville 870 for about 14 months now and I do not regret the purchase. It is currently $570.

You've got a few options. But first, you need to figure out if you like specifically iced americanos or if you're just looking for some really good iced coffee.

If you're just looking for really good iced coffee, I'd buy a Toddy. I know, it doesn't do espresso, but you can brew large batches of concentrated coffee and water it down and add ice and you've got some really great iced coffee. It's worth a shot if all you're wanting to make are iced americanos.

There are also a ton of other ways to make iced coffee but I find the Toddy is my favorite.

If you really want specifically iced americanos, I'd look into a Breville machine. They are cheaply priced and can give you a ton of options if you ever want to try doing lattes and stuff at home. There are better machines but I'm not sure what your budget is. This one has a grinder and a steaming wand as well and it's only $600. It's a good machine for home use especially if you've got a tighter budget.

Buena maquina de cafe. El buen cafe es buen cafe, nada de lattes, starbucks, espumita, crema y esa gilada. https://www.amazon.ca/Breville-BES870XL-Barista-Espresso/dp/B00CH9QWOU/ref=sr_1_1?tag=&s=kitchen&ie=UTF8&qid=1502206150&sr=1-1&keywords=Barista+Express

I got this one a week ago and am pretty happy with it:
http://www.amazon.com/Breville-BES870XL-Barista-Express-Espresso/dp/B00CH9QWOU/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1449843032&sr=8-1&keywords=breville+870xl

The restaurant I run has a La Marzocco Linea that I'm used to, so that somewhat qualifies me as a fancy coffee asshole.

I think you are thinking of this version

If you post a link to the item in question usually /u/PriceZombie chimes in shortly thereafter with a chart of historical pricing comparisons.

It's supposed to be a solid machine.

Here's a youtube video comparing it to another solid machine (Crossland CC1)

Amazon page for reviews.

Does he have everything that comes with the machine? You can buy missing stuff off Breville's website, but you can also buy the machine refurbished directly from them for $900.


I have a BES840XL, and I haven't had any issues after about a year of ownership, but I am curious what people who own the BES920XL have to say.

The thing about Espresso is that you need 9bar of pressure, no matter what you do. You're not gonna get that, unless you actually have an Espresso machine.

Here's the one I use, though it's half as expensive where I'm from.

Thanks for the advice. My current machine doesn't have any recipe settings, really. I just fill up the coffee portafilter to the level it specifies, insert it, press a button, and out comes espresso. This is what I'm currently using:

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00KA8YC6A/ref=twister_B01FHS3QXC?_encoding=UTF8&th=1

Yeah, sorry, I meant a milk steamer, not foamer. The steam wand on this machine kinda sucks. It's usually doesn't get the milk very hot and makes inconsistent foam.

Thank you for the suggestion, but the reviews have me a bit nervous...

https://www.amazon.com/Delonghi-EC680M-Espresso-Machine-Stainless/dp/B00KA8YC6A

I've heard great things about this machine Delonghi EC680M DEDICA 15-Bar Pump Espresso Machine, Stainless Steel https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00KA8YC6A/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_vN1yybHJXX8BA

It's a Delonghi Dedica EC680, I picked it up for half price last year, but I've replaced the basket with a deeper one and turned the portafilter into a bottomless. Here is a photo of the underside, you can see the tool marks where I cut the bottom off.

If you keep the original baskets though, you can put ESE espresso pods in it, which is great if your spouse doesn't want to bother with the grinder.

Be warned, it cant steam milk for shit.. and it doesn't have a pressure relief valve.

This is helpful, thanks. Right now I'm developing my taste for straight espresso with no milk or sweetener (and really enjoying it!), and I'm having trouble replicating good, local coffeeshop espresso with what I can do at home with my Delonghi EC680M Dedica (with a random Mr. Coffee non-pressurized filter that I found fits) and my Virtuoso grinder.

I suppose it's not at all surprising that my results with my current setup aren't great haha. So that's why I'm thinking of upgrading things

aeropress

there's also THIS thing for fauxspresso, but I've not tried it.

The lightest, assuming you dont want to use instant coffee, would probably be a titanium cup and a filter basket.

If you want a more espresso type coffee then the minipresso might be more what you want, it is somewhat heavy though.

The aeropress is also pretty popular.

How about one of those travel cups where you can make a shot in it? I'll find a link.

Here! Amazon isn't the only seller of these, but it was easy to find.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0797T2FYL/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_ySETCbQBGW1WA

Oh. Bought it abroad. This was what we got btw

> if you want something close to an espresso with crema.

It's not going to make you an espresso, but it'll be darn close for pretty much the cheapest price. I do plan on getting something like a Gaggia Classic some time in the near future. But for starters, the Brikka is definitely better than the traditional drip coffee.

i have found just today this one: http://www.amazon.com/Gaggia-14101-Classic-Espresso-Stainless/dp/B0001KOA4Q/

on paper it looks good and is quite cheap at 230 euros

For a fancy latte, I calculated I save an average of $752/year within the first two years: $577 in the first year and $927 in the second year (because the coffee machine would be part of the costs in the first year but not the second).

We own a Gaggia Classic which we got on sale for $350. We buy a bag of espresso from Wegmans for each week ($7), a gallon of milk ($3) and vanilla syrup (1/4 bottle = $2). So that comes out to $974 for the machine and supplies each week for the first year. After the machine is bought, it's only $624 for a year of supplies.

A tall vanilla latte from Starbucks is about $4.25. To have one every day (like I do my homemade latte) for a year, it's $1,551.25 dollars.

First year = $1551.25 - $974 = $577.25 savings
Second year = $1551.25 - $624 = $927.25 = savings
Two year average = $752.25/year

A espresso machine.

I do love kitchen tools, but I'm currently spending money on nothing that I can't absolutely live without now that I graduated and have to start paying off student loans. I currently have a french press and a moka pot for my coffee needs, but I can't froth milk or pull a strong shot for cappuccino and espresso.

I've survived so far without one, although now that I am going to start working pretty much around the clock, I'm not sure if making proper coffee is going to happen very often.

Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds

https://www.amazon.ca/Gaggia-14101-Classic-Brushed-Stainless/dp/B0001KOA4Q

The one on CL for $600 was only 3 months old. With tax, a new one will be $720.

The general consensus here seems to be to aim for a Gaggia machine as the absolute minimum. Preferably a Gaggia Classic (~$388).

I've heard people recommend the lower priced Gaggia New Baby (~$300) to try out espresso and to help decide whether "to get a real espresso machine".

A step up from that, the recommendation seems to be the Crossland CC1, but that's in the $600+ range.

To save some money, you might do better finding a used machine or see if they're on sale at different sites.

If you want to go cheaper than that, people have recommended the MyPressi ($170), but I have not seen that in stock anywhere recently. There's some buzz regarding the MiniPresso (Preorder at $39), but that won't be out until 2015. So there won't be any reviews regarding it for a while.

As for grinder, if you're looking for cheap, you might have to make do with a hand grinder, either Hario Skerton (~$35) or Mini (~$26) or Porlex (~$43). The cheapest acceptable electric grinder seems to be the Baratza Preciso at $300.

This is the information I've gathered anyway. I don't have any personal experience with an espresso machine, but I hope this helps. If you decide to go with something, post your experience and help some people out.

Personally, I'm thinking of saving up for the CC1 and Vario (~$1000) combo...

Cool! Burr grinder is just as important as the machine in terms of espresso making. If you are going for small form and good value, check out the Saeco Aroma and the Gaggia Classic. I recently went through the entry level machine research phase and the overwhelming consensus was that these are the two best value entry-level machines. I ended up going with the Gaggia Classic (I found it used for $270 shipped) and am super happy with it. It doesn't take up a ton of counter space. It seems that the Saeco Aroma is significantly more compact though, if you look at the dimensions.

Good luck and congrats on the wedding!

Idk, this looks more like a kcup dispenser https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0001KOA4Q/ref=psdc_14163731_t1_B00004S9G8

This says “i make espresso” https://m.bedbathandbeyond.com/m/product/breville-reg-infuser-espresso-machine/3244992

I don't know where you live, but in the US the "good" version is still on the market. As others have said, apparently Whole Latte Love sells it and so does Amazon (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0001KOA4Q/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1).

I literally just got mine from Amazon 3 days ago and it is the RI9303 (model 14101). It has the aluminum boiler, 3-way solenoid, and over pressure valve (I opened it up to be sure). The "bad" version is the RI9403... which from everything I have read, is only sold in Europe.

As a comparison, here is the RI9403 (https://www.amazon.co.uk/Gaggia-New-Classic-Brushed-Chrome/dp/B00SBLMICS/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1421526213&sr=8-1&keywords=RI9403). Notice on the RI9403 the different control buttons, the plastic portafilter spouts, and the lack of the solenoid drain tube on the left side that you can clearly see on the US version (RI9303).

Do you know if there has been a change in the build quality of the Gaggia 14101 Classic? I was planning on getting it but I'll have to reevaluate my options if it turns out the quality is not what it used to be.

• True, what I have is a "steam toy" according to some, but still brews coffee under pressure and has about the same concentration, in these ways Moka pot and steam toys are somewhat related to espressos.
  
• The taste resulting from my machine is better than what I get from good drip, or french press. Anecdotal evidence.
  
• I wasnt trying to "negate" your "statement", I was just trying to provide some good alternatives. But on that note, espresso machines can certainly be found for much much less than "very expensive"
  link to one such machine

Exactly. Some old co-workers used to brew it, and it wasn't terrible...but get a ~$100 espresso machine and it's great.

I use this one - http://www.amazon.com/DeLonghi-BAR32-Retro-Espresso-Cappuccino/dp/B0002A3S66/ref=sr_1_23?s=kitchen&ie=UTF8&qid=1449223525&sr=1-23

How can I tell if my little home espresso machine is putting out actual espresso or just strong drip coffee? I am using a Delonghi BAR32 that I got as a gift and a Baratza Encore grinder. (The innards of the espresso machine are supposed to be the same as EC155.)

De'Longhi EC155 15 BAR Pump Espresso and Cappuccino Maker https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000F49XXG/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_gGexxbA04THHT

What about this one? Think it's a step up?

My girlfriend used to drink a cup of sugar-milk with a drop of coffee. Now shes down to just a splash of cream or almond milk. Granted, I'm the only one who actually makes the coffee and i just slowly transitioned her to almost completely black.

If just straight black coffee is too much for you now, like it was for her and I, you should experiment with a cheap espresso machine . Espresso has a much different taste then regular black coffee and there's so much you can do with it. Perhaps steamed milk can help you transition because warming it gives it a sweeter taste than it would have cold.

I've only had mine a year...but I bought it used. It's held up great and can be bought new under $100

De'longhi

I replaced a Krups with this De'Longhi one last year and I'm really happy with it, for the price. I've seen it at Best Buy too, and it got the seal of approval of a friend of mine who owns a coffee roasters/shop in Santa Fe.

I had an $80 De'Longhi that I used for 3 years before upgrading to my Rancilio Silvia. It pulls a decent and consistent shot, I used it practically every day.

You can get one of the cheap grinders from Target. If you can afford it go for the Bodium Burr Grinder.

I have an aeropress but I liked the espresso from the cheap machine better. Especially for Iced Lattes :D

I just dug up the receipt, I paid 100 for it a year ago (apparently it's only been a year, not 'years'). After I bought it I saw it below 90$.
It's probably a discontinued model at this point but I'm sure you can find the next generation of it.

There's also the DeLonghi EC155 which has excellent reviews, costs $75, and I think you can even get it at target so you can try it out to see how much you like it. I ordered this one for a friend and she likes it but I've only used the Salton which I wouldn't be surprised if was a better build.

its called that

https://www.amazon.com/DeLonghi-EC155-Espresso-Cappuccino-Maker/dp/B000F49XXG/ref=sr_1_5?s=home-garden&ie=UTF8&qid=1493953604&sr=1-5&keywords=cappuccino+maker

It's impossible to help pick out a gift for someone you know absolutely nothing about. Does she drink coffee? Get her a nice espresso maker. You could do the same for tea or cocoa. If she cooks you could go for some small appliance that would make it easier. Juicers seem to be popular these days.

867-5309

What's your opinion on this machine. This is the one I bought a while ago: De'Longhi EC155 15 BAR Pump Espresso and Cappuccino Maker https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000F49XXG/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_6uo1CbFZ3RQQJ

You'd be better off getting a cheap pump driven machine IMO, even with a sub $50 budget - for example, Amazon Warehouse has a used EC155 for $41.99 in "Like New" condition (linked below). It is no Gaggia Classic but it will get you in the ballpark so you don't feel like upgrading 2 weeks after you purchase. If you can get an unpressurized portafilter for it, use fresh roasted beans (beans roasted less than ~15 days before grinding), and ideally grind right before you brew you'll likely be more than happy for the time being - especially if you are making milk based drinks.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/offer-listing/B000F49XXG/ref=dp_olp_0?ie=UTF8&condition=all&qid=1549859440&sr=8-13

​

​

​

Cheap espresso? No such thing! About the best you'll do is an "entry-level" espresso machine for around $85. Your mileage may vary: I haven't used a low-end machine like that, but reviews are.... mixed.

Besides, it's very possible your management will object to an 1100-watt, hot-to-the-touch device running at a desk. Maybe you can put it in a "break room" type area or something.

Otherwise, you're looking at a handpresso or similar for $100+, and you'll still need to find a way to get hot water (but it sounds like you have that, if you're using an aeropress). This will make pretty decent espresso once you get the hang of it.

A good espressomachine is not cheap, but you can get some decent ones from around $300 and up. If you have the money I'd suggest something from the Breville Barista Express series.

However, if you only want to get better coffee than from a Keurig there are several alternatives for around $100. Check out the De'Longhi EC155 as an example.

If you really want good coffee you also have to invest in a grinder. The Breville BES870XL Barista Express is a good machine with a built in grinder and despite the price(which is to consider very low for such a machine) it will blow your mind.

What price range are you talking about? Here's some gifts divided into categories and price:

Lord of the Rings (Does she like LotR?):

• LotR Lego - You said she was smart and likes things to be clean, so I'm going to assume she likes decorating. And what's better than decorating your house with things you have built yourself? These sets range from $29.99 to $199.99. Check out the rest out!
  
• The One Ring - Ranges from $59.95 to $99.99. If she likes it, she will wear it multiple times a week.
  
• Arwen's Evenstar Pendent - Ranges from $72.99 to $149.00 (I like the higher end products myself). Subtle, fancy, and looks nice when going out.
  
• Sting - For the sword and the scabbard it's going to almost always cost around 174.98. Hang it on the wall, use it for home protection, it's shiny, ect.
  
  Games:
  
  
• Zombie Dice - BLARRGH BRAINZ FOR $13.13 ARRRUUGGH SUPER CASUAL FUNNY
  
• Munchkin - Very casual party game with lots of expansions. Listed at $24.95 on their website, but it usually will sell for ~$20 at your local Barnes & Nobel or Target.
  
• DOMINION - I bolded this suggestion because it is a card game and this is the Hearthstone sub-reddit. A brilliant German Board Game which invented the genre of deck-building games. Players draw 5 cards from their deck every turn, using the cards they draw to buy more cards for their deck. When they have no new cards to draw, they shuffle their discard pile back into the deck and keep on playing. If you enjoy the deck building element of any card game, this game is immensely fun. The base set is $30.30 on Amazon right now.
  
• Settlers of Catan - Want to get into more hardcore board gaming? This is the gateway game to start. Being another German Board Game, it focuses on non-combat economic decision making. That doesn't mean you cant screw eachother over, as in any good board game. The site asks for $42.00. Again, this game has a lot of expansions. I like the Star Trek Version which goes for $49.99.
  
  Other:
  
  
• Espresso Machine - Does she like Coffee? For ~$79.00 you could cut out Starbucks entirely from your life. If you go to Starbucks every other day, this will pay for itself in just over a month.
  
• Record Player - Nothing beats some nice Analog sound, it's so much more real to me. These vary all over in price depending on what you want out of it. Here's a really nice one for $150.98. Just go to BestBuy/Walmart to find one more precisely for what you're looking for. Here's one of my favorite records of all time. Here's a really sexy big band one.
  
• Wacom Tablet - Is she artistic at all? One of these for ~$229.99 and she'll be able to draw beautiful things on her computer.
  
• A good memory - Take her on a nice date. Inform her she will need to dress well and rent a tux. Go out to an expensive local restaurant and split a meal. Both walk in overdressed and own it. Watch the sun set. Go home, pour her some wine and give her a massage. Bathe each other. Watch her favorite show all night. Go out for breakfast and watch the sun rise. Something different; something exciting! Live life in a routine? CHANGE THE ROUTINE. She will not forget it and this is the best gift you can give her.
  
  These are my main suggestions, for everything else there's Think Geek. But really, browse this site.
  
  ^^Moved ^^from ^^your ^^original ^^comment ^^to ^^the ^^thread, ^^as ^^was ^^original ^^intended ^^location.

After much research and deliberation, I settled on the DeLonghi EC155. It's under 90 bucks on Amazon here.

I haven't used my coffee maker since I bought it, and it makes pretty amazing drinks. It paid for itself in about a month.

If you are going to spend that much money, you might as well spend a few bucks more and get a real coffee maker. Single serve too. Just add hot water if you want americanos instead of espressos.

Oh you like americano?

Get yourself this espresso Bar Pump, a grinder (hand or electrical) and make it cheapo and tasty yourself.

Granted, it will cost you 2 minutes more of your time, but the result is 10x better.

You can also make great cappuccino and latte with such a combination, well and also espresso.

Edit: Oh and you get that 5000$ machine taste, because thats mostly what the other machine does, just with seperate steps.

I have this one which works great.

2 minutes to heat, strong pump, and good reviews.

Don't trust the heating light on it, just start brewing when it clicks.

For me, fine grind and good beans made all the difference. As for espresso machine, I have been using older version of this machine for years. As for the grinder, I had to hack this Mr Coffee burr grinder to make it finer (a hack similar to this). If you don't want to mess with the machine, better to get a good grinder. As for the beans, I have tried a lot of things form Starbucks brand to 100% Kona coffee beans. So far, the best tasting ones were freshly roasted beans from a local coffee company (roasted 1-2 weeks before I purchase). If you have good fresh beans, finely ground, then I wouldn't worry about getting an expensive machine too much because they won't magically enhance the taste.

Here's mine. Had it for two years, works great.

Haven't tried it myself but Ive been thinking about getting the De'longhi ec155

https://www.amazon.com/gp/offer-listing/B000F49XXG/

$42.50 via Amazon Warehouse Deals.

Ég var að hugsa um að kaupa þessi

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000F49XXG

Hann lítur út að vera goður og er undir $200 allt saman

Hmm okay I just want a starter espresso machine I know realistically I won't find one that's the same quality from the coffee shop but definitely want to save money on drinks etc . I am an addict lol. Would this be better?
http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B000F49XXG/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?qid=1452457798&sr=8-1&pi=SY200_QL40&keywords=delonghi+espresso+machine&dpPl=1&dpID=41RTKD7SAVL&ref=plSrch

It says its semi automatic than 100% automatic

Okay well as someone who is satisfied with "mediocre" coffee how would something like this hold up?

Obviously it's nothing comparable to all the 17g in 220 degrees 38 seconds or whatever I see on here but that's the kind of thing I have in mind. Any standard recommendations in that department?

My Dad had one of these things when I was little. He'd make espresso sometimes, preferred to do a pour over though. He mostly used it for the steam to froth up the milk. Made an absolutely terrifying noise, as I recall. If you lived anywhere near, I'd give you the thing for like $10, as it's been sitting atop the cabinets for about a decade.

Yeah, this one in particular was a bad experience :(

I think it's a different model but its essentially this (nothing fancy I know)

http://www.amazon.com/Mr-Coffee-ECM160-Espresso-Machine/dp/B000U6BSI2/ref=sr_1_8?s=kitchen&ie=UTF8&qid=1410772754&sr=1-8&keywords=espresso+maker

Water does come out but not in steam. It kind of drips tiny droplets from the bottom, although its possible water is coming from the sides as well but just dripping from the bottom. It heats up and eventually makes hot watery milk but no steam of any kind. I know its far enough up that if I turn the machine on its side I cant see anything in the nozzle.

Just got this one, seems to be fine and pretty cheap.

Don't be ridiculous.... they cost $40 new, got one from a thrift store for $5

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B000U6BSI2/ref=mp_s_a_1_2?qid=1458793105&sr=8-2&pi=SY200_QL40&keywords=espresso+machine&dpPl=1&dpID=41-TTbN8IVL&ref=plSrch

For reference, you can get a Mr. Coffee brand new for $40. We used this for about a month - found it at work - and it made the best wannabe espresso we've ever had from a machine.

Then we got a Silvia.

Hmmm... You may be on to something here.




 


 


...Unless you're just full of hot air

I just use something like this. I use regular coffee or any flavor I want with it, it has no drm, makes a great cup of coffee and is extremely inexpensive. Super simple good cup of coffee IMO

I just bought the Delonghi EC702:
http://www.amazon.com/DeLonghi-EC702-15-Bar-Pump-Espresso-Stainless/dp/B001CNG7RY

It's basically the same machine just a the steam wand is a little better. I have a Bodum Burr Grinder:
http://www.amazon.com/Bodum-Bistro-Electric-Coffee-Grinder/dp/B0043095WW/ref=sr_1_1?s=home-garden&ie=UTF8&qid=1332696852&sr=1-1

Works very nicely. However if i could have done it over again i would have bought the Baratza Maestro instead:
http://www.amazon.com/Baratza-Black-Maestro-Coffee-Grinder/dp/B0002OQNVO/ref=pd_sbs_hg_15

If you are looking to go cheap i would buy the Hario Mini Mill:
http://www.amazon.com/Hario-MSS-1B-Mini-Coffee-Grinder/dp/B001804CLY/ref=sr_1_3?s=home-garden&ie=UTF8&qid=1332696967&sr=1-3

The Mini Mill is nice because it has a lid, unlike it's larger borther the Hario Skerton:
http://www.amazon.com/Hario-Coffee-Hand-Grinder-Skerton/dp/B001802PIQ/ref=sr_1_5?s=home-garden&ie=UTF8&qid=1332696967&sr=1-5

The Skerton is also a bit harder to hold and grind with (i've tried both). Since your basket will only hold about 12-13 grams you should be fine to use the mini mill.

We had the Delonghi EC702. Honestly it was a mix of things. We did the best we could with cleaning and descaling but some of the unit's parts and internals were made of plastic, so they failed from extended use. In the end, the unit simply declined in pressure. Our Delonghi customer service experience was pretty bad, at one point we had to pay to ship it to some shop for warranty repairs. It took forever.

At the end of the day we feel we more than got our money's worth for a $150 espresso machine. Proved to ourselves that we loved espresso enough to get a better unit.

I have this and it's so worth it:

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B001CNG7RY/ref=asc_df_B001CNG7RY4858878/

Great value, super convenient. About to have a shot of espresso right now.

We have a De'Longhi ec702 and a Caspresso Infinity.

We're still novices so our equipment isn't that good sofar.

I got this espresso machine as a present. I really like it but the wife doesn't so it only gets used when we have guests.

She would rather get one of those Nespresso machines like this one or their top of the line here.

I had the chance to try one of these about a week ago, don't know the model. The taste is actually better than I expected, and it is much simpler to use than a regular espresso machine. I may look for one later this year (i.e. blackfriday).

Hey, I was in your position about a year ago and did a lot of research into this, I got the Delonghi EC702....

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001CNG7RY/ref=olp_product_details?ie=UTF8&me=&seller=

It has turned out to be an awesome machine and looks great too. I had a steam driven Kurps machine before that and would absolutely say go for the pump-driven, the taste is noticeably better

I really could not recommend this machine enough after a year of just about daily use, it was an awesome upgrade for me and a great starter as well!

https://www.amazon.co.uk/DeLonghi-Magnifica-Espresso-Cappuccino-ESAM4200/dp/B001EOMZ5E/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1494860247&sr=8-2&keywords=delonghi+coffee+machine

I have that machine. Is it worth also buying an espresso bar machine for making a more traditional espresso (I am not very happy with the espresso made from the delonghi machine).

https://www.amazon.co.uk/d/p5u/VonShef-Bar-Espresso-Coffee-Maker-Machine-Cappuccinos/B0168EWD42/ref=sr_1_6?s=kitchen&ie=UTF8&qid=1494860231&sr=1-6&keywords=espresso+machine

I cant see that link but this one is pretty good

https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B001EOMZ5E/ref=twister_B019FHUMV0?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1

They are super easy to keep clean and maintain. Amazon usually has this on special at £199 every now and again

Do you want a somewhat light and flavourful coffee from the freshest beans sold by a local roaster, or are you after that stronger, darker, brewed "mornin' coffee" you'd pull from a dispenser or pour from a jar? I'm going to guess the latter.

Amazon links below for example only

The former, you could look at something like a Chemex Ottomatic (expensive) and the latter would put you into a world of automatic drip machines. You could do automatic espresso machines too, but... I'll stop at milk dispensers are probably rare in that budget.

Depends what you are after. If you aren't after a specialist coffee in the first place, then you don't need to expect the same calibre of results.

Either way, many people in a "coffee enthusiast" community wouldn't even think of any of them as an option. Too busy dealing with intricate processes and little contraptions or their baseline espresso expectations start well above what those machines will provide. Your asking a community that contains people who'll faff over how many grams of water they need for their preinfusion... People who just drink your basic morning coffee aren't going to be frequent browsers of a coffee forum, like how people who'll drink a JD and Coke aren't necessarily going to be talking about the fruity notes found in the aromas of a fine scotch.

I know the products exist. I can't vouch for any of them and would never get one myself. I'm a nutter with a commercial espresso machine plumbed up in my kitchen.

My guess is that you'd be good searching "bean to cup" or "automatic coffee" into Amazon and browse from there. I think an automatic drip that'll fill a jug which you can pour will be your best bet at that budget, simply because I wouldn't wouldn't go near a cheap espresso machine, let alone a cheap automatic espresso machine.

To whoever reported this: no, this is not an affiliate link. "Ref" is a token which tracks where the user came from, not an affiliate or referral token. Affiliate links are almost always caught by the spam filter.

To op: in the future, please use the simplest possible Amazon link. This link could be simplified down to:

https://www.amazon.com/Mr-Coffee-Automatic-Cappuccino-ECMP50/dp/B001EU9UTM/

or even:

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B001EU9UTM/

I have had this machine for around 3 years and I have no complaints. It is also my first espresso/latte machine

http://www.amazon.com/Mr-Coffee-ECMP50-Espresso-Cappuccino/dp/B001EU9UTM/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1414015565&sr=8-2&keywords=mr+coffee+espresso+machine

I have one of these espresso machines, and it works pretty good. It makes a good cup with good crema, but the frother leaves a little to be desored.

Mr. Coffee Automatic Dual Shot Espresso/Cappuccino System
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B001EU9UTM/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_xEeRBb0STX0C1

Here's a shopping list for your budget:

• Subscription to Perfect Coffee ($15/mo) - These guys are pre-grinding beans for you and sending them to your door at the specification you request. So you could order pre-ground beans from Four Barrel, Blue Bottle, etc. and they will grind and ship to you. I beta tested them and found them passable if you don't want to hand grind or spend the money on a grinder.
  
• Pump action espresso machine ($82) - I have this machine and it does a great job provided you clean it regularly. Use the reground coffee you got and make some quality espresso for the price.
  
• Frothing pitcher ($8) - You'll need this for your milk needs.
  
• A thermometer (~$3-5) - any that can be placed in the carafe for optimal temperature of the milk.
  
• Cups to serve your drinks!
  
  Total: $110

Thank you so much for your response! If I may ask, what's the difference between an "ideal" machine and something cheaper like this - https://www.amazon.com/dp/B001EU9UTM/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_awd_WCZFwbMTMHYV1 (I don't know how to hyperlink on mobile, sorry) - if they claim to reach the same pressure?

For that kind of stuff, even this would do the trick. It will steam milk just fine, and pull a decent enough shot to make a passable latte.

Video hit home as I love espresso at home. Mr Coffee Barista works great

The dreaded 'foot drop' always gets me. One reason I love walking with my Golden Retriever is if I fall "I'm not some drunk guy" but more of person "who fell, with that pretty Golden Retriever"

On Movie Theaters -- thankfully we have iPIC. Big recliner seats, two seats together with a center console. Best part is back row, full reclined and my tremors don't disturb anyone else. Yes,I've had people ask "can you sit still?" during quiet movies, so best to go to IPIC for those unless an action thriller with lots of action!

Yeah I was looking into some machines but I didn't really know any quality ones. One of them was like a keurig machine but the thought of having to buy the little capsules was a turn off. Another one I saw had a milk frother but I'm pretty sure you guys could recommend a better one, I'll link it down below.

Also, in terms of the grinder, are beans ever sold already ground? Because I've never really seen people with a grinder usually they just have a coffee machine. Mind you, nobody i've seen is as into coffee as the hobbyists here.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B007K9OIMU?psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=ox_sc_act_title_1&smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER

http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B007K9OIMU/ref=mp_s_a_1_2?qid=1420299862&sr=8-2&pi=AC_SY200_QL40

The mr coffee is a lot less than the Jura. It's a pretty decent automatic machine for its price bracket.

This is the machine that I have

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B007K9OIMU/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I know this model is usually ~$500 new, but currently Amazon has the stainless steel model on sale for $428 shipped. For someone in the MA area that can pick it up this is a pretty good deal, but with shipping costs this probably isn't worth it for most.

http://www.amazon.com/Jura-ENA-9-One-Touch/dp/B004VS32YS

$1279

A cheaper, simpler alternative, is $500 used. You will have to froth your own milk and warm the cup.

http://www.amazon.com/Jura-13626-Ena-Micro-1/dp/B008RZFQKO

This looks like a nice deal. Definitely at the top of my list. I've tried several Jura machines (though not this one) at other people's houses and really like them.

I’ve never used a bean to cup machine, but Breville makes one that is pretty popular and has good ratings. Plus, it has a steam wand! It’s called the Breville BES879XL (amazon link: Breville BES870XL Barista Express Espresso Machine https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00CH9QWOU/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_Wph4AbW65HSPC)

Semi snob here. After a trip to Europe, I couldn't drink regular pre ground instant coffee anymore.

Initially I invested in one of these and would grind the beans and brew my coffee in the morning.

After my right arm started to resemble Popeye's, I splurged on one of these babies which I've been using ever since. Grinds the right amount of beans for you, makes the steamed milk, and has a filter for the water. Had it for over two years, no complaints.

I'm agree with the coments. Breville it's good option. I found Breville BES870XL Barista Express Espresso Machine interesting however the cost is about 590. But at Amazon now for 529 https://www.amazon.com/Breville-BES870XL-Barista-Express-Espresso/dp/B00CH9QWOU
At this article few more reviews including Breville http://jonsguide.org/best-home-espresso-machine-reviews/

I LIKE RARE. The juices better be pooling out as soon as I stick a fork in it. Medium rare is also delicious! If my steak is well-done, then No soup for you!

Kitchen Related

So I have been looking on Amazon. Nespresso makes you buy their capsules? Is this only for that brand? What do you think of this?

https://www.amazon.com/Breville-BES870XL-Barista-Express-Espresso/dp/B00CH9QWOU/ref=sr_1_6?s=kitchen&ie=UTF8&qid=1511490052&sr=1-6&keywords=espresso+machine

It looks like "super automatic," what are the pros and cons of that?

Oh my gosh the Ninja is terrible. Classic example of "tries to do everything, succeeds at nothing".

Breville machines are a pain in the butt to deal with repair-wise (it's like a cell phone, ship everything back to headquarters) but while they are working they have a lot of features for a pretty good price. Unfortunately still above your price range though. This is the Breville grinder-integrated unit (still requires the user to do manual tamp and portafilter extraction):

https://www.amazon.com/Breville-BES870XL-Barista-Express-Espresso/dp/B00CH9QWOU/

Super automatics aren't necessarily pricey-pricey, but obviously the nice ones are. However, even the cheaper ones (Saeco XSmall, Gaggia Brera) are unfortunately above your $300 limit. Whole Latte Love has a refurb XSmall super-automatic for $199:

https://www.wholelattelove.com/refurbished-saeco-x-small-v2-espresso-machine

So that grinds, makes espresso, but the frothing isn't automatic, so they'd have to get their own milk pitcher in there.

Wait! A lakh? What type of coffee are you specifically looking for? Look, I am an addict myself. I buy my beans, roast them grind them and make a single cup of espresso each time, but I didn't have to spend a lakh for that.

Do you want to just show off in your pad that you've got this Italian espresso machine? Then you can start with something like this.

I gave up going to Tim Hortons because 99% of the time, THEY CAN'T EVEN GET A SIMPLE DOUBLE-DOUBLE RIGHT.

How unprecedented is that I can go to the same Tim's every morning and they fuck a medium double-double up EVERY TIME?!

Enough of that shit. Their coffee already tastes like shit and I was giving them the benefit of the doubt because they were so close and I needed caffeine every morning. Now we just make it at home, where I can count on it being done properly.

For everyone here who's still stuck in a rut, buying coffee from Tim Hortons every morning on the way to work, here's some advice buy this thing:

https://www.amazon.ca/Breville-BES870XL-Barista-Express-Espresso/dp/B00CH9QWOU/ref=sr_1_2?keywords=breville+espresso+machine&qid=1550088476&s=gateway&sr=8-2

Yes, it's expensive but it pays for itself pretty quick when you're not spending that money at fuckin Tim's every morning.

Not sure if it was clear - but I already have the Encore. It's served me well for the last ~2 years. I'm only needing to buy the espresso machine currently. Would it still not be worth it to try for a bit with the encore? My girlfriend's tryin to put me on a budget, so at least if I buy the espresso machine first, and I can't pull good shots from it, I could then convince her I have to buy a new grinder. She drinks and enjoys coffee as well so I'm sure I could make that purchase easily.

edit: how are the incorporated grinders in machines? i.e. Breville BES870XL Barista Express Espresso Machine While being slightly above budget for new, I wouldn't have to buy a grinder for it potentially.

Lasting impression= every morning when I fire up the coffee maker

Do I like coffee - yes

https://www.amazon.ca/Breville-BES870XL-Barista-Express-Espresso/dp/B00CH9QWOU/ref=sr_1_3?keywords=breville&qid=1559003342&s=gateway&sr=8-3

​

Has a built in grinder, is in your budget, can make good americanos if espresso is not their thing, decent cappuchinos. Its not the greatest machine in the world, but it may do the trick.

Thank you! I have a Breville Barista Express and typically try to go for a more microfoamy texture using whole milk. I aim for 140-145 Freedom Degrees and not too much bubbling on top. I have found that, while the milk does come out nice and glossy, it is missing the thickness that allows me to do stuff like latte art. Do you have any advice on that? In theory the wand on that machine should be able to do it but I have also been told otherwise.

https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B00CH9QWOU/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_awdb_t1_te7ZDbNHXQQYP

This is the one I have

What he said. Breville has an all in one with a grinder. Save up for this guy.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00CH9QWOU/ref=asc_df_B00CH9QWOU5146648/?tag=hyprod-20&creative=394997&creativeASIN=B00CH9QWOU&linkCode=df0&hvadid=167136162413&hvpos=1o1&hvnetw=g&hvrand=16366125409702049663&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=m&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9031808&hvtargid=pla-272351054622

Thanks for the suggestion! From what I gather these look pretty much hands-off, and he really enjoys the whole process. I think I’ve decided on this Breville.
Breville the Barista Express Espresso Machine, BES870XL https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00CH9QWOU/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_y3ZSDb8BSXDCB

How much are you looking to spend? If he doesn't currently have an espresso machine this is a great starter:

https://www.amazon.com/Breville-BES870XL-Barista-Express-Espresso/dp/B00CH9QWOU

I picked one up and it gets daily use. Nothing too fancy but it gets the job done. My wife and I are very happy with it.

If you look around for a bit on Amazon and wait for a warehouse deal to pop up, you can find a Barista Express for around $325 in "Used - Acceptable" condition (which normally just means it has no box and some scratches). Here is the page to look at.

I got one a while ago for that price. It has a grinder built in and is a good machine. The grinder isn't the best and the machine is just entry level, but for the price I don't think you can find anything that can get an OK shot for that price.

Amazon has a 4 year extended warranty through Assurion for like $30 as well if you care about those things.

Oh nice!

My buddy has one of these which I’ve been able to use several times. The cleaning procedure is extremely simple too. I’m thinking about getting one...

Do you mean this thing?

http://www.amazon.com/Rancilio-HSD-SILVIA-Silvia-Espresso-Machine/dp/B00H1OUSD2

That looks really good and would do what I want, but it doesn't come with a tamper and milk pot which would put the cost up a bit. Wouldn't it make more sense to get a BDB for 200 more dollars? I still plan on 300-400 dollars for a grinder as I am told its really necessary.

Is there a pro the Silvia has over the BDB ignoring cost?

I used to have the Rancilio Silvia: https://www.amazon.com/Rancilio-Espresso-Machine-Stainless-13-4-Inch/dp/B00H1OUSD2

You can find a few cheaper, but this one is REALLY good.

You already have a grinder, right?

Rancilio Silvias have dropped in price recently. Here in Europe I can get a heat exchanger Nuova Simonelli Oscar 2 for the money I've spent on my Silvia a few years ago.

https://www.amazon.com/Rancilio-Espresso-Machine-Stainless-13-4-Inch/dp/B00H1OUSD2/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1494624856&sr=8-2&keywords=rancilio+silvia

https://www.bellabarista.co.uk/rancilio-silvia-2016-edition-espresso-machine.html

http://www.elektros.it/hr/en/oscar_II_nuova-Simonelli/oscar-II-black.html

Rancillo Silvia $689 new?
http://www.amazon.com/Rancilio-HSD-SILVIA-Silvia-Espresso-Machine/dp/B00H1OUSD2/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1413571371&sr=8-1&keywords=Silvia+espresso+machine

What about the Delonghi EC680 for $239?

I haven't tried it myself, but I've seen some positive reviews considering its price.

Yum

I wouldn't. My understanding is that the Dedica is effectively a $50 Delonghi ECsomething stuffed into a much more attractive and low-pro casing, with an expanded thermoblock.

It's not a bad 'entry level' machine, but for 195$ ... you're getting screwed, near royally. You can get them new for ~$60 more on Amazon.

If you are fine compromising heavily on performance to get an entry-level machine, that's awesome - but don't spend extra for a nicer wrapper. Save that 'extra' against the upgrade you're probably already planning on.

I have a delonghi ec680. Certainly not high end when it comes to espresso, but I've modified it to be an unpressurized basket, which for me was the most important thing, and I make great shots with it. If you're willing to put in some effort, and are not afraid to take things completely apart, there's a mod for the machine, where you can replace the panerello wand with a rancillio Silvia wand. Just another option to consider.

Ec680- here
Ec680 steam arm mod- here

If you have the patience, the ground floor entry level is the Minipresso. Totally mechanical, one shot at a time: LINK

The Minipresso with a hand grinder is my go to. For portable coffee. I actually carry one on the daily in my bag to work.
MiniPresso GR Espresso Maker https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00VTA9F6U/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_uHcNzbENJM3MN

Don't know about the states so, but I have the minipresso and it's great! Obviously it's not the same as a true espresso machine but for the price it works!

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00VTA9F6U works pretty well for me.

Anyone seen or used this setup?

Flair Espresso Maker - Manual Press https://www.amazon.com/dp/B06X916JM8/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_p8qEAb8S2TTHR

Consider this press: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B06X916JM8/ref=cm_sw_r_fm_apa_i_RPhXDb57VMTGW

No milk steamer, but you can use a stand-alone steamer or a French press. Steam wands on any espresso machine less than an absurd amount (like, 500+, not absurd for espresso but absurd for anything else) are really, really hard to get good steamed milk with anyway.

I've never used the press, but I've seen people get awesome results: put it on a scale and try to maintain a certain number for constant-ish pressure.

I cant say definitively without experience but reading the reviews the Flair Espresso Maker came highly rated. Don't think you're gonna get performance of such pressure for an automated machine at that price range. I wanted to order one just havent gotten around to it.

https://www.amazon.com/Flair-Espresso-Maker-Manual-Press/dp/B06X916JM8

Thanks! Really helpful stuff in this thread. I was wondering what your opinion was of this model DeLonghi EC155M Manual Espresso Machine, Cappuccino Maker https://www.amazon.com/dp/B072X2HHQ3/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_1qzYAb90QH6KN

What about this combo?



A basic 15-bar DeLonghi:

https://www.amazon.com/DeLonghi-EC155M-Espresso-Machine-Cappuccino/dp/B072X2HHQ3?keywords=espresso+machine&qid=1540690929&rnid=1063498&s=Home+%26+Kitchen&sr=1-21&ref=sr_1_21


With a manual burr grinder:

https://www.amazon.com/Mueller-Ultra-Grind-Strongest-Heaviest-Stainless/dp/B076BZYSGF?keywords=burr+grinder&qid=1540691024&sr=8-10&ref=sr_1_10


Since the aero can only get 7-8 bars, and the moka pot doest have any pressure... would this be a better settup?


Right now i'd be using a manual blade grinder with a aero or a moka pot. I know this will be 50-60 bucks more but I'm able to drop an extra few bucks if it means an improvement on quality/taste.

Well, my DeLonghi was just under $100 on amazon and I got it for "free" with rewards points. Yeah, it's not top of the line... maybe someday I'll graduate to something really expensive. Buying coffee at Starbucks 4-5 days a week wasn't cheap either.

A French press makes good coffee with ground coffee beans that's way better then a Keurig and very cheap. However, if you want to brew your own espresso at home for a low price id suggest this maker. I have 2, one for home and one for our camper. I use mine daily for 2 years and love it! https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B072X2HHQ3/ref=dp_ob_neva_mobile

>bean-to-brew

Didn't know the word, thanks!

I've just come across something like this a few minutes ago, wondering how it can last all the work day (I usually use 4-6 small Nespresso pods per day).

Sí: https://www.amazon.com/Nanopresso-Portable-Espresso-Minipresso-Operated/dp/B0797T2FYL/ref=pd_lpo_vtph_79_bs_tr_t_1?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=G591MAGBPJ7C2VENN7DK

Yes, it is the Nanopresso with the Barista Kit.

Minimum machine grinder dream setup machine grinder

This one has been long in my order list, read every review and so many YouTube videos about it. Looks to be a fairly good espresso machine. With a frother as well. https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0001KOA4Q/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1474816260&sr=8-1&pi=SY200_QL40&keywords=gaggia+classic+espresso+machine&dpPl=1&dpID=41GEJM8TPSL&ref=plSrch

http://www.amazon.com/DeLonghi-EC155-Espresso-Cappuccino-Maker/dp/B000F49XXG/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1382981773&sr=8-2&keywords=espresso

I'm looking to make Carmel macchiatos at home (I really enjoy the iced ones from Starbucks). Aside from an espresso machine, are there any other tools I'll need to accomplish this? Thanks!

I'm looking to get this: http://www.amazon.com/DeLonghi-EC155-Espresso-Cappuccino-Maker/dp/B000F49XXG/ref=sr_1_6?m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&s=kitchen&ie=UTF8&qid=1377969063&sr=1-6

http://www.amazon.com/DeLonghi-EC155-Espresso-Cappuccino-Maker/dp/B000F49XXG/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pC_nS_nC?ie=UTF8&colid=1CR9YK1EKP51T&coliid=I2LHJGGUOLN6OB

This may get some down votes but I've heard great things about the De'Longhi EC155 and it's only $90. www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B000F49XXG I don't personally own one but the reviews on it are worth at least considering it. And if you look hard enough, you can even find a few others recommending it in this sub. I do agree with everyone else, it's all about the grinder (and IMO, more importantly the beans). Look into getting the baratza encore or the capresso infinity, $130 and $80 respectively. And if you're lucky, you can score a refurbished baratza encore on their website. Check every Thursday, that's when the post their refurbished items.

LFTL


Also, thanks for sharing my fellow arizonian.

Wow guys, this is amazing. My mom's birthday is also coming up in about a week, and I am also looking for an espresso machine. However, my budget is a lot smaller - $200-300 tops. Any suggestions? Should I just get the top-rated product on Amazon?

My mom doesn't really drink espresso but she'll love it. She's currently drinking instant coffee daily, so I think espresso machine would be a big improvement.

EDIT: didn't hear from anyone so I ended up ordering Mr. Coffee BVMC-ECMP1000. Seems like a good fit.

[Rancillio Silvia](Rancilio Silvia Espresso Machine with Iron Frame and Stainless Steel Side Panels, 11.4 by 13.4-Inch https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00H1OUSD2/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_TntNybHPPFYDP) has been around for a while and has had several revisions to improve its quality over time. It's tried and true and produces great results. There's tons of info available on how to get started, tech support, repair and maintenance. Pair it with a good grinder and you're good to go!

> The pressure gauge alone is a great idea

Looks like the pressure gauge will cost you an additional $40.

As I said it was used and didn't last long, so I wouldn't be surprised if it was used improperly. I use filtered water, and I don't see any grounds or scaling. Where would I look for the scaling issue? I have even run the Urnex Cafiza stuff through it which may have helped, but hardly noticeable. Now the machine is hardly usable :(

This is the one I have. Like I said, it's no high end machine but I do recall it making a decent cup of espresso at one point.

save more and get honestly you will want to spend the majority on the grinder https://www.amazon.co.jp/%E3%80%90%E4%B8%A6%E8%A1%8C%E8%BC%B8%E5%85%A5%E3%80%91Breville-BES870XL-%E3%83%90%E3%83%AA%E3%82%B9%E3%82%BF-Express-Espresso-%E3%82%A8%E3%82%B9%E3%83%97%E3%83%AC%E3%83%83%E3%82%BD%E3%83%A1%E3%83%BC%E3%82%AB%E3%83%BC/dp/B00CH9QWOU/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1510030616&sr=8-1&keywords=breville

https://www.amazon.co.jp/%E3%83%87%E3%83%AD%E3%83%B3%E3%82%AE-%E3%82%A8%E3%82%B9%E3%83%97%E3%83%AC%E3%83%83%E3%82%BD%E3%83%BB%E3%82%AB%E3%83%97%E3%83%81%E3%83%BC%E3%83%8E%E3%83%A1%E3%83%BC%E3%82%AB%E3%83%BC-%E3%82%A8%E3%82%B9%E3%83%97%E3%83%AC%E3%83%83%E3%82%BD%E3%83%9E%E3%82%B7%E3%83%B3-EC152J-%E3%83%96%E3%83%A9%E3%83%83%E3%82%AF%C3%97%E3%82%B7%E3%83%AB%E3%83%90%E3%83%BC/dp/B0047C8856/ref=sr_1_8?ie=UTF8&qid=1510030796&sr=8-8&keywords=delonghi%28%E3%83%87%E3%83%AD%E3%83%B3%E3%82%AE spend rest on good grinder

http://www.amazon.com/DeLonghi-EC155-Espresso-Cappuccino-Maker/dp/B000F49XXG/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1421873498&sr=8-1&keywords=espresso

On sale. The cheapest true (pressurized correctly) espresso machine that I know of, has a decent enough frothing tip for foam, and it pulls some great shots. I have a friend who has had one for a couple of years, and his is still running great- if you're starting out or even pretty knowledgeable about coffee, I recommend this. Plus, it's almost 50% off!

Maybe your kitchen. I have and totally recommend this beautiful thing.

http://www.amazon.com/DeLonghi-EC680-Dedica-Espresso-Machine/dp/B00KA8YC6A/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1457634339&sr=8-2&keywords=delonghi+espresso

DeLonghi EC155M Manual Espresso Machine, Cappuccino Maker https://www.amazon.com/dp/B072X2HHQ3/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_0J1vCbKG4QDWE

yikes, 'not great, still usable' for $500 sounds risky and a loss. I would buy a brand new Breville Infuser with that $500