Gaggia Coffee Deluxe Espresso Machine

Pros: commercial brew group and portafilter sturdy housing high quality components
Cons: no 3-way solenoid poor steam wand design

I admit it - I LOVE COFFEE. I have been a coffee geek for several years now and I FINALLY bought myself an espresso machine. Years ago my mother bought me a cheap espresso machine (Krups steam espresso machine) and the carafe broke the first time I ...

Pros: Solid construction, great brew every time, bar-style fixture and handle.
Cons: Needs quality ground coffee and a little bit of a knack to operate.

I've had experience with Gaggia machines for years and years and haven't found anything that comes close to this sort of quality in the price range. Solid chrome-plated brass hardware and a sturdy housing really makes the thing seem solid, and provides ...

Pros: Expresso everyday at home. Flexible machine.
Cons: Turbo frother can be difficult to clean.

I bought this to replace a krups espresso machine. I had been researching buying a "real" espresso machine for years. This was definitely the best value I could find. I have been very happy with it, but I don't claim to be much of a barista. I cringe a bit now at Starbucks since what I make at home is much better.