Great machine for beginners! Easy to use and produces tasty shots!
Positive Product Points
Easy to use Compact Quick to warm up Nice stainless steel finish Easy to follow instructions Easy to fill water tank
Negative Product Points
Frother is okay, hard to get a lot of foam Steamer constantly releases water as you steam Somewhat hard to see the water line, but easy to lift out the tank and check
Detailed Commentary
I am new to the "espresso" world and the Breville is exactly what I am looking for! It is easy to use, quick to warm up, and fairly quiet. I have always used a stove top coffee pot and wanted an upgrade to a more authentic "espresso" machine with a steamer. I know that many professional baristas do not think the Breville produces a true espresso because it used a crema enhancer, but for a novice it does the trick and makes tasty shots. For $100, milk, coffee and vanilla syrup I am able to make lattes as well as my local coffee shop. The negatives I can notice so far are that the frother is a little weak and constantly emits water as you steam, resulting in watery milk. have read it is better to steam the milk first and then pull the shot. I will have to try this technique and see if it increases the amount of foam. So far I do not have many complaints regarding this machine however, I have owned it less than a week, so only time will tell. I would recommend this machine to any beginner looking for a machine that pulls a decent shot and is easy to use!
Buying Experience
I bought the Breville from a buyer on Ebay for $100. I am still in college so I'm not sure how much more I would be willing to spend. Great machine so far though!
