Barista Max Espresso Coffee Machine (VCF126)

Before u get an answer to your question, u need to figure out do u want - bean to cup or an espresso machine that is only suitable if u want a hobby learning about coffee and dialling in etc. Once u answer that question u can rule out 2 of the machines in the pics. If u want bean to cup then u just need to look at the best machine for ur money. Jura are good but expensive, family members have delongui which are reliable and I have friends with melita which equally reliable. If u want a hobby then think about what sort of hobby u want and how much money u want to spend. The sage comes with a grinder so u don't need to think about grinders at this stage, it feels cheap and having used one a few time for the hobbyist it's retention if u change beans regularly is awful but it does a good job, u get grinder and machine for less than 1k, it's got loads of feature and the ui is better than most in fact all espresso machines. The rancilio doesn't have a grinder or any features of note, even the pro is basic in that regard. So there is extra cost for a grinder but this give u great flexibility and also if one goes wrong u don't have to replace grinder and coffee machine in one go. For full disclosure I have the RS Pro X which I really like albeit there are design flaws around the ux and the drip tray, however it's reliable and consistent. I have paired it with a Niche Duo which I would not recommend mainly because u can get equivalent grinder for less money although I enjoy using it and have no complaints. As others have said I would focus on grinder first if u r a hobbyist and then pick an espresso machine. The profitech(s) are solid, I know people who love the Rocket Appartamento and if u r minted I am still yet to find someone who hates their La Marzocco Mini. Good luck.

Barista series requires the whole grouphead to be replaced. DB series has a removable diffuser which cracks and deforms - but is easily replaceable luckily.

You can make very good late with a Breville Barista, the built in grinder is good enough, and steam wand works well, all in a compact machine for ~600

I bought a brevillie barista recently and I love it!! :) I’m sure I would’ve loved that too and i got a good price on this model

I have a Sage Barista machine and love strong but not sour coffee. I use the italian roast from Schwarzenbach, Zurich. They do mail orders.