Mignon Brew Pro

I recently got the pro as well. I seem to struggle with static even with dts. It's sticking to the chute and the machine. When I bellow, it seems to just throw dust everywhere. I also now grind directly into the portafiller as it seems to cling to the cup. Could be due to grinding too fine? Just one bag thru it so still trying to figure it out. What number are you grinding at? I'm at like 33

I love my E55 pro

Probably the cheapest best option is Baratza encore esp or eureka mignion

As a former barista I think you will be most comfortable with a Gaggia Classic E24. It will feel closest to the commercial machines you've used in the past. Don't forget to budget for a good grinder. When brewing espresso, the grinder is much more important than the espresso machine. lf you really have a budget for $1K, an E24 for $450 will leave you $550 for a grinder. Spend as much of that as you can stand. If you want to single dose, Timemore 064s would be a great choice. Get it at one of Amazon's frequent 20% discount sales. If you want to grind-on-demand with a hopper, then one of the Eureka Mignons.

Ja mám už roky delonghi dedica s vlastným sitkom a pákou (neviem, ako sa to po slovensky správne volá) a eureka mignon mlynček. Do 500€ by si sa mal vojsť.

Was just in a similar boat, deciding what to replace my manual Timemore grinder with for my Flair Pro 2. I’d check out the DF54, DF64 and the Eureka Mignon series, personally ended up getting the Mignon Zero myself but still waiting to try it out.

My research led to understanding the Eureka Mignon being the sweet spot for best value, likely won't need to upgrade in the next 5 years, serious coffee grinders. I got mine second hand and am very interested in getting clear ROI so this is before the value curve starts to flatten; you might have different principles in mind. My sole complaint is I feel the grind size dial could be a little less sensitive. Turning 20 degrees can go from way too fine to way too coarse. But the fact is you can still always dial in with decent results.