Dedica Series

Second this my delonghi is amazing. Im using this hand grinder its $100 chines brand grinds exceptionally well: MHW-3BOMBER R3 Manual Coffee Grinder with CNC Stainless Steel Conical Burr and 5 Screen for French Press, Drip, Espresso, External Adjustable, Hand Coffee Bean Grinder with Magnetic Bin, G5934S-OS

I looked at it. I ended up buying a DeLonghi super automatic instead. With the very convenient to use+clean milk carafe that comes with it for cappuccinos and milk-based drinks. I can't speak on the quality of espresso he makes. I've tried a few machines before buying mine and I was happy with the DeLonghi dinamica . Knowing then what I know now, and how much we enjoy and use the machine, I would have probably splurged and got a KitchenAid kf7. The big question is do you require a machine that makes milk-based drinks? Like cappuccino and lattes. Also looking after sales support. A lot of the gaskets o-rings, seals, etc. Will go after a few years of use. You want to make sure you get a machine that is easily serviceable by you or affordable to do by technician

Second vote for the De Longhi

In that budget,, I would get Delonghi Dedica or Breville Sage, small portfolio ones, and get a decent grinder. DF54 or 64 what have you. and add accessories. i heard AIO will break easier, especially the grinder. And if I had to do it all over again, I would just get the cheapest Delonghi sub $150, and frequently under $80 in local Sams club in the US. Reason being, its so easy to repair. But as always, better equipments will give better results. It's with these budget kitchen appliance espresso machines that need crazy dialing skills...

Delonghi Dedica Arte. 51mm basket. easy to find. fast heat up time. So many auto settings (like auto turn off after 30 min, or turn on with button touch - don't have to switch it off). Find the cheapest Amazon burr grinder and mod it to grind finer. Get a few accessories if you want to expand the horizon. Have fun.

Go with Delonghi Dedica because I have one. 😃 less than 30 sec heat up, auto shut off, and fast steaming heat up, latte art steaming wand. I have Dedica Arte, but the new model is even better. BTW, avoid all in one's. And get a separate grinder, if you can. because grinders get damaged easily. But it's your choice.

Go with Delonghi Dedica because I have one. 😃 less than 30 sec heat up, auto shut off, and fast steaming heat up, latte art steaming wand. I have Dedica Arte, but the new model is even better. BTW, avoid all in one's. And get a separate grinder, if you can. because grinders get damaged easily. But it's your choice.

The De'Longhi Dedica Maestro Plus Espresso Machine is actually one of the better entry to mid home machines from De'Longhi. It heats up fast, the steam wand is pretty solid for the price, and the Dedica line is known for being beginner-friendly. Since you’re already a barista, you’ll probably get even more out of it than most people. The biggest upgrade you can make is pairing it with a good grinder that’s where a lot of home setups fall short.

I have the Dedica ec685.M And Picopresso. They both need a few adjustments to make them extract a better shot. But when I adjust Picopresso properly, it makes crazy extractions. My hand grinder is Kingrinder K6, the best grinder for its price. 

I drink exclusively americanos and I make 1-2 on my $200 DeLonghi Dedica with my DF64 grinder every day. I also make my wife hot lattes. But yes, an espresso machine is perfect for making espressos at home. I put a little hot water in my cup (coffee shops always put way too much water in an americano for my liking) and pull the shot right into the cup of water. Beautiful crema on top. Makes a delicious americano. And now I can have fun experimenting with different beans