CASABREWS - Ultra Espresso Machine (B0D53126XJ)

Casabrews Ultra is nice. Button machine, quick to temp and no lever dance or heating parts. Once the grind clicked, shots got clean and pretty steady without me babysitting every pull. Had it a bit over a year now, nothing weird on my unit so I'm honestly HAPPY!!!

I use the Casabrews ULTRA now. It’s still within your budget and has been an upgrade in both build and coffee quality. Great for espresso and manual frothing, and super easy to clean and maintain. The build feels solid and it’s held up really well so far. It’s a great machine if you’re looking for something that’s beginner-friendly but also gives you more room to grow into.

Grinder is doing most of the heavy lifting for espresso, the machine way less so. With your budget you can push the grinder higher and not worry too much on the machine side. A simple and sturdy machine that doesn't get in the way is enough. For me Casabrews Ultra is an easy partner. Basic 58 mm setup, no weired stuff. My unit's been pulling 1~2 shots every morning for 4 yrs and still chillin.

ok so all of these are really good options but insanely expensive lol. unless you’re like super into fine tuning every shot, you honeslty don’t need to drop that kinda cash. something like this casabrews one (or similar mid range machines) will do the job well enough imo. Its got a 20 bar pump and a pretty solid steam wand so not exactly perfect, but 90% as good for way less money. biggest tip: don’t sleep on the grinder. a good burr grinder + fresh beans makes way more difference than the logo on the machine. spend a little less on the machine, a little more on the grinder, and you’ll get cafe level results without wrecking your wallet. Trust me on this. You can always upgrade later on.

A relative gifted me one of those ~$140 Casabrews espresso machines from Amazon a little over a year ago for my birthday. It seems to be on sale for less on Amazon every now and then. Even though it’s not top-tier quality, it still makes espresso that genuinely brings me joy to this day. When it comes to flavor, the beans and grinder make a much bigger difference anyway. Local roasters often have specials or rewards programs that can help with cost. As for the grinder, that’s where it’s really worth investing. The folks over at r/espresso will tell you: you can’t get good espresso without a good grinder. I spent about $200 on my Baratza Encore ESP, which is considered a popular budget espresso grinder. But then you also have to consider all the accessories you may want to pick up. As the tamp and portafilter that comes with that espresso machine could be significantly upgraded. You may want a mat, cleaning towels, WDT tool, and all sorts of ceramic mugs. But if you're comfortable as is, all you really have to be concerned about is the reoccurring purchase of beans and some occasional descaling. Ultimately, espresso is fun hobby to dive into that results into some tasty coffee - but damn you just made me realize how much money I'm throwing into this thing lol. I hope this helps, best of luck.

I Love how nobody is actually answering the question you asked. You don't give a price point so I will just tell you I had the weirdest buy ever of a casabrews I am absolutely in love with. I saw it for sale on my local Adverts for 30 quid after the the DeLonghi I loathed finally went to a well-deserved grave, and I sent my husband down to buy it no questions asked. When he brought it back it was literally brand new in box. I had to untape and unpack it from plastic inside. I think the couple had just gotten married and had wanted a different color and they couldn't be arsed to actually return or exchange it? Anyway mazel tov to them, and I love my casabrews. I will also add that I used to own an actual coffee shop, that I do have standards but I am also lazy, and I do not grind my own beans because I do not need that kind of noise in my life at 7:30 in the morning. Regardless, put good espresso through your casabrew and you will get consistent excellent espresso and a milk frother that heats to the proper temperature with the correct air pressure. What happens after that is between you and the milk gods. They make them across a variety of price points now so have a look and see if something appeals.

I agree! I'm also using [Casabrews machine!](https://www.reddit.com/user/Electrical_Cut8902/comments/1oaf1y1/espresso_yourself_awake/)

I love my casabrew

I wasn't ready to go all in on a $500 machine just yet. I have a decent burr grinder though so I decided to dip my toes in the water and bought a Casabrew for $140. I'm impressed at the shots it can pull. I added a bottomless portafilter, had to play around with the grind but they actually come out tasting very good. I know, out of your price range, but if you can save up a bit more, it might be worth it. Hold for Amazon days too, there will be huge deals next week.

I recently bought a casabrew and their customer support has been fine.