Recommendation Please - Espresso Machine

• 

  sjtem3 on 16/02/2020 - 11:42

  +1

  There are some nice rancilio silvias/gaggia classics available second hand within your budget range, particularly if you're willing to wait.

  The rancilios in particular are something many people swear by, though I've never owned one personally.

  I think the distinction between the italian machines and the appliances is primarily in their longevity, though there will be other distinctions that inevitably affect their ease of use and quality of coffee.

  If you don't mind the cheaper quality machines then the world is your oyster - you'll likely be happy with anything you listed. If you're prone to upgrading things that are mediocre, or want higher quality coffee then the italian machines are the cheapest option, and an expensive hobby awaits you.

  I used to use a used em5000 off gumtree, and was really quite happy with the coffee it produced if I used quality beans, but the frother was atrocious. You get what you pay for in many respects with espresso.

  • 

    ozkiwi75 on 16/02/2020 - 13:57

    +1

    I couldn't agree more. My Rancillio Sylvia and Rocky grinder are built like a tank! Been using them for over 10 years and Miss Sylvia is still pumping out quality coffee. Waiting for them to fall over so I can upgrade… but looks like not gonna happen any time soon!

    OP, I think you'd most probably be happy with any of those machines on your list (as mentioned above). Perhaps concentrate on the one that has better warranty to get better bang for buck longer term.

    • 

      bluesky on 16/02/2020 - 15:44

      Yeap I agree, the Rancilio Silvia & Rocky are built very robustly. Even when a part broke down after more than a decade, the parts can be replaced cheaply. Replaced the pump for less than $50 five years ago. Both still going strong. They are used a lot for making coffees several times a day, so it was a great investment.

• 

  toristo on 16/02/2020 - 12:15

  I got one of the DeLonghi Dedica in the boxing day sale and love it. It's a solid machine, but very compact (marginally bigger than a pod machine), looks great, and best of all, does a really good coffee. The steam arm is good for silky milk, but you'll need to buy a small stainless steel jug for it (not included)

• 

  Stewardo on 16/02/2020 - 14:27

  I’d go for a Gaggia classic $900

• 

  this is us on 16/02/2020 - 14:36

  Delonghi Magnifica S

• 

  MassNerder3r on 17/02/2020 - 13:00

  Our Bambino turns 2 this year with no issues (fingers crossed).

  The auto milk frother is not super-smooth, it's probably better to do it manually but meh. The auto-purge is a bit messy, but it's a nice feature.

  Good:
  3-second heat up (i think)
  Comes with everything (milk pitcher, tamper, portafilter, 1 and 2 cup basket)
  Big water tank
  Small footprint

  Bad:
  Need a separate grinder
  Single boiler
  No un-pressurised basket

  It's awesome for a sub 500 machine, bought ours for $480 back in the day.