Robot (Regular)

Cafelat Robot (base model) has no plastic, though it does have a silicone gasket. Barista models have a FEP tube for the pressure gauge.

+1 for the Robot. I'm biased, but IMO it's endgame material, as long as you're into the process and don't mind using another device to steam/froth milk.

The Robot is fantastic and it’s built to last forever.

This is the answer!!! A little bit to go on your budget and you can get the regular robot.

Robot or Flair manual levers are very versatile especially for its price.

Watch a couple of youtube workflow videos. I don't think the learning curve is harsh its in my opinion easier to dial in shot while you can still save those shots by adjusting the pressure.

I moved to Tokyo from Europe, where I used a Breville/Sage Barista Express espresso machine 3 times a day and I want to create a similar experience in my Tokyo apartment. I’ve been researching affordable espresso machine made for Japan/Tokyo market (100V/50-60Hz) and I didn’t find any good option. Originally I wanted to get a Breville Bambino Plus, but didn’t find it in a 100V version. That level of price/value would be the optimal for my case. The only entry-level real espresso machine I found available for the Japanese market is the Gaggia Classic Evo Pro, which I seriously considered, but the infamous ‘boilergate’ issue made me cancel that idea. Another idea was the Flair, but I need milk drinks and foaming capability, so that’s not a valid option either. Fellow espresso lovers in Japan, please help me which machine should I get, with a max budget around 100k JPY for the machine. Planning to get a Baratza Encore ESP grinder next to it. I’m OK with both buying used or new. UPDATE: Thanks so much for everyone’s recommendations. All things considered about uncompatibility of my originally targeted machines, I ended up orderi g a Cafelat Robot manual espresso machine with a 1zpresso j-ultra manual grinder. Looking forward to try them.