Best Entry-Level Home Espresso Machines for Beginners of 2023

[@codyDhanson]

I just got my gaggia classic evo pro yesterday from whole latte love …. And I love it so far … Better yet the service from their company is amazing… as a business owner myself I appreciate good customer service and support… they earned a costumer for life … I will be ordering a new grinder , basket , milk frothing pitcher, and a nice 58.3 -58.5 mm tamp and will be going to whole latte love first… Thainks for the video and the great service

[@Wholelattelovepage]

Hey cD, you are welcome for the video. Thank you for the comment and of course your patronage - both are appreciated! Marc

[@beachcomber1able]

Waste of money.

[@MaartenRongen]

Purchased an ECM Casa a month ago. Excellent build and finish thus It's a beauty in the kitchen. It's delight to work with this machine. Espresso's are tasting very good and steaming milk is like a piece of cake . The workaround is very comfortable Anyway very.satisfied with my purchase.

[@Wholelattelovepage]

Hey MR, Thanks for sharing your thoughts on the ECM Casa! Marc

[@willkendallpro]

I would highly encourage anyone watching this video, and making a purchase, to save some extra money and buy the Gaggia Classic Evo Pro instead of the Breville. In my opinion, this is a massive step up in quality of the machine and thus the coffee produced. The Gaggia is also the cheapest machine in this lineup that takes, mostly, standard parts.

[@Wholelattelovepage]

Hey will, Thanks a whole latte for your thoughts! Marc

[@conflikt6207]

The Evo Pro is double the cost of a Breville Bambino Plus in my country, surely it can't be twice as good.

[@Wholelattelovepage]

@@conflikt6207 Wow! What country? Here in US Bambino plus is $50 more than the Evo Pro. 2X as good... IDK let's see which is is still going strong in 5-10 years

[@conflikt6207]

​@@WholelattelovepageAustralia so I'm assuming it's because Breville/Sage is Australian that it's cheaper here but it must also be that the Gaggia is extra due to the need for them to convert it to 240v for our power. It looks like the Gaggia Evo Pro is $600 USD here but the Bambino Plus is $315 USD. Absolutely have no faith in the Breville lasting anywhere near as long as the Gaggia.

[@writerboz]

@@conflikt6207 want to start an import/export business? I can send you Gaggias in exchange for Brevilles. lol

[@VenessaJohnston]

The Profitec Go is nearly double the price of the Gaggia Classic Pro. Both machines make excellent espresso's. Thus you had better buy the Gaggia Classic and spend the saved money on a decent espresso grinder. An ideal combination for the best tasting coffee drinks.

[@Wholelattelovepage]

Hey VJ, Great idea! Better grind quality = better espresso! That said the GO does have features like PID, externally adjustable brew pressure, brew pressure gauge and more steaming power. Marc

[@RoyHamblen-ps6hk]

Not to mention a boiler 4x the size which accounts for the steaming, shot pulling ability

[@Gk2003m]

7:48: if you are dropping $850 for the Silvia, I highly recommend looking instead at the LaPavoni Casa Bar PID. Same price, and for that money you get both a pressure gauge and PID temperature control along with the 58mm standard portafilter. Add a dimmer for flow control and you’ve got everything you could want in a ‘beginner’ machine. But as far as the five in this vid, for just a couple hundred $$ more the Profitec would be a phenomenal choice. Again because of the gauge and the PID.

[@BertdeVries-zn6vf]

The ECM Casa is a great espresso machine. Build and finish is topnotch. It's a pleasure to make espresso's and cappuccino's with this machine. Steaming milk is a breeze. Anyway a great recommendation.

[@Wholelattelovepage]

Hey BV, The Casa is a class act - thanks for sharing! Marc

[@harindavid]

Do you tend to steam the milk first and then the shot or vice versa?

[@mosquito9085]

Profitec GO and Pro 300 are manufactured in Milan (Italy). It says on their website.

[@MarceldeGoede]

Been using the Bezzera Hobby for a while now Drinking a lot of lattes and Americanos a day Thus the Bezzera Home fits my needs perfectly well Steaming milk is incredibly fast namely within 15 seconds The dedicated hot water switch is so handy as for making Americanos Can't live without it Sturdily built The streamlined design is definately the icing on the cake Everything is well thought out! There is even an elegant hinged lid on the water reservoir making things more pleasurous Anyway the Bezzera Home is for me personally an excellent buy Not to forget the small footprint

[@Wholelattelovepage]

Hi MG, Thanks for sharing your experience with the Bezzera Hobby. It is a compact machine and powerful steamer. Was featured in our Bet Entry Level Machines of 2022 video! Marc

[@RebeccaOConnor-fy7qk]

Mark you are definately right: The Bezzera Hobby is a wonderful espressso machine. Steampower is impressive. So for the cappuccino lover a must. The hinged lid on the water reservoir is making things much more comfortable. The Hobby is very compact in size. Decent build and finish. Very reasonably priced. Unquestionably worth a buy.

[@borewyrm]

A nicely done review/sales pitch. Your enthusiasm, and that if the other staff in the video, combined with the detailed review pushed me to just order the Gaggia as my first machine! Also thanks to the other people in the comments with their wonderful advuce.

[@GeroLubovnik]

IMO brew CONSISTENCY is the key. I would strongly suggest you buy a machine with a PID and has a decent size boiler. Do you really want to temperature surf only to get different results each time? In my experience of the models presented buy the one with a PID and a larger boiler size (than the Gaggia Classic). The GC has a 4 ounce boiler, and even if you slap a PID on it the temps are inconsistent based on the water coming in mixing with the water flowing out and the PID only measuring the boiler temp, not the water temp. If no PID at least buy one with a boiler larger than 4 ounces. I had a Gaggia Classic for 5 years and while if functioned fine I finally got fed up with it due to lack of consistent pulls, which I now get with a E61 machine.

[@Wholelattelovepage]

Hi GR, Thanks for sharing your thoughts. Going PID def increases cost but does improve temp consistency as you noted. I test a lot of machines and can tell you the appliance grade products with thermoblock boilers and no passive heating of a large thermal mass group head plus lightweight portafilters are terribly inconsistent at brew temps. Almost always very low producing sour shots. Marc

[@DavidEAragon]

Fantastic video. No unneeded ramble of things to make the video longer, just a clear and concise info. Thx

[@Wholelattelovepage]

Hey David, Thanks for the comment! Marc

[@mwrcrft]

I bought the Giggia and Eureka Facile on your recommendation last year and for my one or two espresso drinks a day it works fine. Adden a 9 lb spring and 18 gram micro basket. Works great for my work flow as I grind into dose cup fill basket then even and tamp. Makes a great cup. Keep work flow simple.

[@Wholelattelovepage]

Hey m, thanks for sharing. The Classic + Eureka Mignon Facile is a nice combo. Marc

[@seancgray1]

The Profitec Go is made in ECM's factory in Italy, and not in Germany. In fact a lot of ECM's smaller machines are made in this factory.

[@OliviaNewtonJohn-yn8pi]

The Bezzera home and the Bezzera Unica pid are very nice espresso machines as well. And very attractively priced too.

[@Raymondgogolf]

Hi Olivia My honest and sincere apologies for invading your privacy abruptly. I was going through a comment when I came across your comment I was fascinated and became interested in knowing you, I'll be so glad if you send me a mess. I hope there are no problems to be part of your friend list ❤but If you find this message embarrassing please pardon my manners.❤☘️🌺🙏

[@Wholelattelovepage]

Thanks for sharing

[@NancySpencer-fp9mk]

The Quickmill Pipa is such a great espresso machine delivering deliciously tasting espresso's/capuccino's. Very sturdily built and toggling with the heavy duty toggle switches is a delight. Burn free steam wand. Quick start up time. Build quality and finish is even comparable with ECM. Large boiler size so brew temperatures are very stable. Design is very attractive even more in matte black. Anyway very satisfied with the Quick Mill Pippa.

[@Wholelattelovepage]

Hey Nancy, Thanks for sharing your thought on the Pippa. It is a very nice little machine. We took an in-depth look at it in this videokzbin.info/www/bejne/Z3OudnSbbdqfapY Marc

[@JS-ct5jn]

WLL customer support claim is not an empty promise...it's truly next level and the biggest reason I bought my machine from them. If my profitec 500 pro ever dies, I'll be upgrading with them.

[@Wholelattelovepage]

Hey JS, Thanks for the kind comment! Our experts always strive to provide the best support in the business! Marc

[@tobiasr4462]

I can recommend the Lelit Mara X. Around 3 years now and this thing is great! 😊

[@CarlosVargas-js8qz]

Not entry level though but yes a great machine!

[@Wholelattelovepage]

Hey t, Thanks for the recommendation. Working on our best of 2023 mid-range machines w/HX boilers at the moment - Mara X will be featured! Marc

[@MrBertybob]

Got the Gaggia. It's a tank and bomb proof. And if it ever goes bang then its probably user serviceable.

[@Wholelattelovepage]

Hey MrB, Thanks for the comment and sharing your thoughts. It sure is! Marc

[@MrMichael33b]

I just pulled the trigger on a Gaggia Classic pro from your site just last night!

[@Wholelattelovepage]

Hey MrM, Thanks for your comment and patronage! Be sure and bookmark our support site for the GCP: support.wholelattelove.com/hc/en-us/sections/1500000384362-Gaggia-Classic-Pro It's loaded with videos and more to help you setup, use and maintain your new GCP. Marc

[@braidenmitchell5620]

I have a question about the profitec, is there a convenient way to get hot water from it? I know the ECM and gaggia both have switch combinations, but i heard this is not the case with the profitec- a real deal breaker for an americano lover unfortunately.

[@Wholelattelovepage]

Hi b, Thanks for the question. A couple of ways to water. Open steam valve and press brew switch for water out of the wand. You will have some dripping from the group head. Workaround is a spare portafilter with a backflush disc in the group to prevent dripping. You can also take water directly from the group. Probably want to flush first to wash away any grinds and use a wide mouth cup.

[@davidcarlin3850]

Hi Marc...... as always Love your videos and detail. I swear I have learned more about espresso and machines from you guys. Many Thanks. I am seriously considering that new Profitec Move....... Another great video btw.

[@Wholelattelovepage]

Hey dc, thanks for the kind words! The Move is a fantastic machine☕️ Marc

[@lukaswerle]

Any word when the Gaggia will be in stock in Thunder Black?

[@EhsanExplains]

Could you please recommend an espresso machine in which the hot water does not come into contact with any plastic? (~$2000 budget)

[@Wholelattelovepage]

Hi EE, The majority of machines at that price point have no hot water contact with plastic. Internal plumbing in hot water path is usually copper, stainless steel or Eco brass. Be aware "no burn" steam and hot water wands usually have an internal silicone tube for insulation. The Profitec Pro 400 is a wonderful machine currently under $2K. Here's a link to my video on the 400 cued to section which looks at internals: kzbin.info/www/bejne/ZqamZ5yHpKiKiassi=BNp_hcdaLcCfx93B&t=567 Profitec Pro 400: www.wholelattelove.com/products/profitec-pro-400-espresso-machine-in-matte-black-with-flow-control-and-olive-wood Hope that helps! Marc

[@Cicero-ri8ke]

You’re really throwing down a serious 70’s vibe Marc.

[@Wholelattelovepage]

Hey C, that's when I came of age so...

[@greenlit802]

I have a Nespresso but quickly realized the coffee is too expensive. I spend like $130every 3/4 weeks on coffee. It makes great coffee. Nice and creamy looking on the way out. I started using aluminum covers to use my own bean in this machine so I refill the old Nespresso capsules but the machine doesn't like it. After maybe 20 uses I get the red ring to clean. I'm looking for something that does what Nespresso does but with normal bean. I want the creme look. I don't normal drink espresso I usually use the 7/8oz capsules that Nespresso had. One that can do both normal or espresso would be nice. Any suggestions?

[@Wholelattelovepage]

Hi greenlit, Unless you've decided to give up some convenience and go to a portafilter based machine with a separate grinder I'd take a look at a super-automatic bean to cup machine which has true Americanos on the menu. Super-autos all do espresso, but the Americano is where it's at for those 7-8oz cups. I do not know your budget but my favorite super-auto machine is the Gaggia Accademia. It's been my daily driver in the studio for almost 2 years and near 1,000 Americanos. It makes the best espresso I've ever had from an automatic machine and I like the Americanos from the machine better than most I have from manual portafilter machines. I guarantee you the espresso and coffee from whole beans ground fresh is better than pre-ground from a capsule. The Accademia's special trick is a boost function which uses 2 grind cycles to give you a cafe sized coffee dose. It brews half as a normal espresso and the second grind automatically makes a shorter and sweeter ristretto. That combo equals great flavor in the Americano and other drinks. Check out the Accademia in my video here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/oIu6hGZulK-am5Y Hope that helps! Marc

[@greenlit802]

@@Wholelattelovepage OK thanks for the reply and info. I was actually looking at a Gaggia but a Magenta or Cadorna . The Accademia is super nice but I cant justify in my head buying that right now haha.

[@Wholelattelovepage]

@@greenlit802 You are welcome. Both those machines have Americano available. If you want a little extra kick make you can make a boosted Americano manually on them by adding in a shorter espresso/ristretto after. I just did some extensive caffeine testing on the Accademia and caffeine content in the boosted Americano is about the same as a double shot Americano made on a semi-automatic machine using a 17.5g coffee dose.

[@MiuraStudio]

Hi, It look like your Gaggia Classic Evo Pro has some walnut customisations. Is that so? If I wanted to replicate that look do you sell the components?

[@Wholelattelovepage]

Hi MS, yes it does have some custom wood components! Originally custom wood options were only available at time of full machine purchase. But, we just received custom wood treatments for the Classic Evo Pro made by Wiedemann in Germany. They should be available as upgrades on our site later this week. You can check this link now to see the current collection of Wiedemann component upgrades and look for the GCEP parts to be added soon: www.wholelattelove.com/collections/wiedemann Marc

[@jk25653]

Been using Profitec Pro 500 PID purchased from WLL for 2 years and I love it! Remember to consider maintenance and fixing parts as the machines get used. That was a big factor for me going up in price range from these entry offerings.

[@JS-ct5jn]

I've had mine for 5 years now...still happy and going strong

[@Wholelattelovepage]

Hey jk, You make a good point and thanks a whole latte for your patronage! Marc

[@JessopVTS]

do you mean replacement parts and maintenance is easier on more expensive machines or these ?

[@jk25653]

@@JessopVTS Let me clarify. I don't necessarily think more expensive is better. But, I do think E61 Group head machines are in general better if you are considering to own the machines for many many years. And yes, they are generally more expensive than the ones presented here. I chose the Profitec Pro 500 PID for many other reasons, but it helped that WLL had loads of repair videos on this machine specifically. Recently, I had an issue with the solid state relay, which controls the boiler activation to the set temperature. It was such an easy process to fix, because 1. WLL had so many repair videos on Profitec Pro 500 PID mentioned earlier, 2. the machine is designed to be easily accessible for repair, 3. the parts of these machines are readily available. I love WLL haha.

[@yodaeee]

So this machine is durable enough if i want to use this machine for a long time? Let say 7 years+? This is probably my first espresso machine and I want it to be ready as it get without to mod any part of it. Profitec distributor here in Indonesia is quite big company. They sell La Marzocco machines too so hopefully their after sales is good.

[@TacoBag]

I just love my Quick Mill Pippa, so sad it's not so popular machine

[@Wholelattelovepage]

Hey TB, QM Pippa is a fine machine. Excellent user reviews just not as many out there as these selections and only so much room in the video. Thanks for sharing your love! Marc

[@evanduhon4353]

Need some help. Looking to get my first non appliance grade espresso machine. I make 90% milk drinks. I would like to spend around $1000 and want something fairly easy to maintain. From research I’ve done I really like the bezzera new hobby for the great steam pressure really wish it had a pressure gauge though. Also Profitec for cheapest machine with pid. Also the bezzera unica really caught my eye but would something like that be to much for a beginner is it hard to maintain? Also seems like it would make sense to get the flow control as well seeing as it’s not much more right now

[@LindaHiemstra]

The ECM Casa is $859 The Profitec Go is $1149 How a difference in price: nearly $300 In this case I would certainly opt for the ECM Casa. High end engineered and detailed finish. Powerfull steamwand, larger water reservoir, larger driptray and dedicated hot water switch thus enabling a smooth worksaround. Not to forget the vibration pump is more quiet. Design is more appealing namely not so boxy. The Profitec Go is lacking all these features.

[@Wholelattelovepage]

Hey Linda, Thanks for sharing your thoughts! I agree the Casa V is very nicely finished. Some people prefer a more colorful machine to the mirror finish and the GO has a lot of color options. Another key difference? GO is PID temp controlled so more accurate with brew temps, has automatic shot timer and you can adjust the steaming temp to suit your skill level. Marc

[@Limemill]

The PID is kinda very important for consistency. And design-wise they're almost identical with the Go being slightly wider and colourful (the matte finish is also something I strongly prefer personally)

[@elsaarad6996]

I have the ECM CASA V and am enjoying it very much. Sure a PID would be nice but the GO became available a bit too late for me. Still I warmly recommend the ECM

[@LindaHiemstra]

@@elsaarad6996 The ECM Cass has a much more pleasurous workaround than the Go. The Profitec Go is so poorly and cheaply built as for the outer parts so full of annoyances.

[@kintukteekreetukpum]

From Thailand 🇹🇭 👇

[@DarthV506]

Still don't believe the Silvia doesn't have PID & pressure gauge at its price. Too bad the Profitec Go wasn't out 2 years ago, I'd have one both at home and at the office!

[@Wholelattelovepage]

Hey Darth, It is a bit surprising. As mentioned in video user's do mod their Silvias w/PID and more. There's the newer Silvia Pro X dual boiler with PID, gauge, etc. Marc

[@DarthV506]

@@Wholelattelovepage Yep, big modding scene for both the Silvia and GCP. The Silvia is a beast at the pricce point but for the money, I'd rather not have to buy extra things to bring it to the level of that ECM and the Go. But that's just me :) I'm sure there are people that have installed PID and light dimmer flow control mods, which is awesome.

[@JB-pk1jx]

You can’t beat the Silvia with a pid out of these options

[@Eyemahere]

Money no object. Which superautomatic machine would be the best?

[@Wholelattelovepage]

For super-automatic the Jura Z10 is a star: www.wholelattelove.com/products/jura-z10-super-automatic-espresso-machine Even makes a true cold brew! If cold brew is not a requirement the Gaggia Accademia is the best bang for the buck: www.wholelattelove.com/products/gaggia-accademia-espresso-machine Marc

[@camaperture8116]

Great summary of these machines! I happen to have a Solis Perfetta which I love and think beats the Bambino hands down but I still appreciate the way you covered these selections.

[@Wholelattelovepage]

her c, Thanks a whole latte for the comment! Marc

[@N0rthshoreNick]

I love my older Gaggia classic. Thinking of upgrading, but the 1,500$ plus machines take 30 minutes to heat up! Any suggestions?

[@Wholelattelovepage]

Hi NsN, For an upgrade I'd look at machines with heat-exchange or dual boilers. Much nicer workflow than single boiler machines like the GCP. Many users put machines on smart-plugs so they can program to turn on early so all heated up and ready to go. If you'd just like machines that heats faster you might have a look at the Bezzera BZ13. It uses a BZ group which has an internal heating element resulting in heat up time of ~15 minutes, plus it's a PID machine with excellent user reviews: www.wholelattelove.com/products/bezzera-bz13-pm Marc

[@tgwilkinson12]

Great video! When can we expect to see your best espresso machines of 2023? I know 2022 came out late September last year so excited for the update!

[@Wholelattelovepage]

Hey tg, Thanks for the comment! Almost done with our video on mid-range prosumers with HX boilers. That'll be out later today or Monday. Then later next week a range of prosumer level dual boilers. Marc

[@tgwilkinson12]

@@Wholelattelovepage awesome news, looking forward to when they drop!

[@jeffersonsteelflex6796]

This might be a stupid question but what is the clearance on the ports filters on the Bambino and the Gaggia? Would I be able to fit a 8-10oz cappuccino cup under them when brewing?

[@Wholelattelovepage]

Hey jefferson, not a stupid question! It will depend on what type of cup you use. Capp cups differ in height. Clearance under the Bambino spouts is 5". It's 2.75" under the Gaggia spouts with standard portafilter or about 4" if you used a bottomless. Another option with either machine is brewing into a shot pitcher like this one: www.wholelattelove.com/products/revolution-dual-spout-shot-glass-3oz And pouring into your serving cup. Marc

[@jeffersonsteelflex6796]

@@Wholelattelovepage awesome! Thank you so much for the response!

[@pawelibertines88]

are brass boilers problematic due to the fact that it might emit some lead?

[@Wholelattelovepage]

Hey p, according to manufacturers brass used currently is treated to prevent or of a variety that does not leach lead. Materials used meet requirements of EU, US and stricter regs in California.

[@fijismart1]

Coffee Cast concept very cool!

[@Wholelattelovepage]

Hey fiji, Our girls/guys host them next door to me so I overhear them daily - customers love it! Marc

[@mr_knight4701]

Thank you for the very useful video. I wanted to know if these espresso machines can give espresso as good as espresso machines with rotary pump ? I know pressure of rotary pumps is better and more stable than vibration pumps. Do you suggest that I pay more and get a machine with a rotary pump or does it not make much difference? I know that the price of machines with rotary pump is much higher than vibration pump. Is this big price difference is reasonable or does the quality of espresso not different much?

[@Wholelattelovepage]

Hey mrk, You are welcome for the vid! When properly adjusted pressure on the coffee during an extraction is essentially the same regardless of pump type. That said, rotary pumps do reach pressure faster and have higher unrestricted flow rates. For the majority of users no significant difference in finished espresso quality based on pump type. For most, what's noticeable is the smoother sound of rotary pumps. Almost all rotary pump machines can run from internal water reservoir or be plumbed direct to waterline. Very few vibration pump machines are plumbable. Beyond that, some prefer the higher reliability of rotary pumps - they are commercial grade. Hope that helps! Marc

[@Indohomebarista]

Gaggia Classicpro is the perfect choice . I used it already for more than years with fantastic espresso and steam for making latte ... parts is also available

[@yodaeee]

Duh ketemu orang Indo disini. Mohon ijin bertanya pak. Saya disini benar benar pemula dan sedang mencari mesin espresso pertama untuk home use. Permasalahan Gaggia/Silvia itu sepertinya di temperature surfing dan saya sudah baca ke forum luar seperti reddit sepertinya sedikit tricky ya untuk pemula seperti saya. Nah lebih baik saya menggunakan diantara dua mesin itu karena secara spec dan harga tidak beda jauh atau lebih baik nabung dikit untuk ambil Profitec Go karena ada manometer dan PID? Sebagai pemula saya masih bingung mau ambil yang mana melihat adanya dua opsi diatas. Terima kasih. PS : Kemungkinan akan menggunakan grinder DF54(flat burr 54mm) Tidak ada niatan untuk beli/upgrade bermacam part kedepannya. Mesin dipakai selama mungkin. Jadi setup cuma 1 espresso machine, 1 grinder, 1 scale, wdt+macaron distributor murah.

[@amberly01]

Awesome review! Have you ever tried the Ultima Cosa presto bollente espresso machine? I have been looking for a beginner friendly and affordable espresso machine for a while now and that one caught me eye. Could you maybe also review it? Thanks in advance!

[@Wholelattelovepage]

Hi a, Thanks for the comment. I have never used that product. Looks very similar to Breville/Sage: www.wholelattelove.com/products/breville-bes870xl-barista-express Marc

[@bradcomis1066]

Profitec Go seems pretty dialled right out of the box. I was thinking Gaggia Classic Evo Pro, but still needs a PID, which would still be cheaper than the Profitec actually. Hmmm, tough choice. Maybe temperature surfing the Gaggia wouldn't be too bad.

[@Abdullah-cj2mh]

I would say there’s plenty of resources online for installing a PID on the Gaggia so it’s no big deal to set up. The only reason I’m holding off on buying the Evo Pro right now is all the recent complaints about the non-stick coating inside of the boiler flaking off and ending up in the water of the machine… Ingesting that stuff doesn’t sound like something I wanna do. I might just go for the Silvia and use it until I’m bored of temperature surfing so at that point I could install a PID (or maybe I won’t get bored of temp surfing, who knows).

[@cyrus500000]

Any idea when the sunshine yellow will be in stock for the evo pro?

[@Wholelattelovepage]

Hi c5, unfortunately no ETA at this time. Marc

[@cyrus500000]

@@Wholelattelovepage Thanks. Do you possibly know the last time you had one in stock? Might just buy another color if it’s been a while

[@Wholelattelovepage]

@@cyrus500000 Believe last time in stock was mid-December. Very popular color through the holidays.

[@steph_coffeelover]

Has anyone tried the Ultima Cosa presto bolente espresso machine? I just purchased one from Walmart and it works great! It’s comparable to the breville I used to have

[@Wholelattelovepage]

Not yet!

[@launajorgensen7275]

Where can i get service on my Rancilio. I live in Ludington Michigan

[@Wholelattelovepage]

Hi lj, Not familiar with any service providers in your area. We do service Rancilio Silvias at our shop in Western NY so you'd need to ship the machine here. If interested, you can contact our tech support staff here for details: www.wholelattelove.com/pages/contact-us

[@colourlessbluethings]

Hi there. I'm interested in upgrading my machine and am trying to to research compatibility of accessories. I've found some differing information (but it certainly seems not all 58mm portafilters will fit) so was hoping you could tell me (basically so I can find a bottomless portafilter I like), is the Profitec an E61 group head (or compatible)?

[@Wholelattelovepage]

Hey clb, Thanks for the question. Yes, the Profitec GO is compatible with E61 portafilters. This bottomless Profitec model comes with a triple shot basket: www.wholelattelove.com/products/profitec-bottomless-portafilter Marc

[@geraldbraun6267]

Hey Mark, I have a Gaggia Classic Pro that I bought from you guys over three years ago. I absolutely love the machine, but recently I have noticed that I have to clean it more often due to the fact that our water has more calcium in it now. Is cleaning the machine every three or four weeks hard on it? I use a brita filter, but the calcium stills comes through.

[@Wholelattelovepage]

Hey gb, Thanks for the report on your GCP and of course your patronage! By cleaning do you mean descaling or back flushing? Only way to remove calcium deposits is descaling. As you mention, Brita filters that I'm aware of do not remove calcium from water. They typically do particle filtration and chlorination removal using activated carbon. If a machine requires descaling every 4 weeks due to hard water then it should be done. Do limit resident time of descaler less than 25 minutes in the boiler. There are filtration options which reduce calcium concentration enough that when used as directed you will not need to descale the machine. 2 popular options are: BWT Penguin Pitcher. It has activated carbon to remove chlorination, particle filtration and ion-exchange which exchanges calcium for magnesium. That leaves you with the minerals needed for good flavor but a calcium level that will not cause scale to form. Check that out here: www.wholelattelove.com/products/bwt-penguin-2-7-l-water-pitcher Another option is the BWT BestCup. It's an in-reservoir filter with same properties as their pitcher system: www.wholelattelove.com/products/bwt-bestcup-m-package Hope that helps! Marc

[@geraldbraun6267]

@@Wholelattelovepage Thanks Mark, that helps and I should have clarified that I back flush every week and the cleaning is done with the Gaggia cleaner that I put in the tank and run through the system. Thanks again, you guys are the best!

[@mikelamagna4258]

Many years ago I purchased the entry level Gaggia Espresso machine from you. It made great coffee and I had if for about 8 years. I eventually gave it away because the descaling was a pain in the neck for me. It's still working about 15 years latter. Anyway do you have a simple machine that you can recommend that is easy to maintain, and I mean EASY! I hate the descaling process, at 70 years old I just want to enjoy my coffee.

[@Wholelattelovepage]

Hey ml, Thanks for sharing the story of your indestructible entry-level Gaggia and your patronage! Unless you have super soft (very low mineral content) tap water descaling is required maintenance unless you filter/treat the water to reduce calcium concentration. Assuming you have no edge case tap water issues like high gypsum content or chlorides here are 2 filtering options that when used as directed will prevent scale formation and put an end to the need to descale espresso machines: BWT Penguin Pitcher: www.wholelattelove.com/products/bwt-penguin-2-7-l-water-pitcher BWT BestCup in-reservoir filter: www.wholelattelove.com/products/bwt-bestcup-m-package Either will work with all machines in this video except the Breville Bambino For a machine recommendation, the best value here is the Gaggia Classic Evo Pro. Since you're familiar with Gaggia reliability seems like the best choice. www.wholelattelove.com/collections/gaggia-classic-pro-colors Hope that helps! Marc

[@abhinavmukherjee2897]

I am considering the Profitec go and the Rancilio Silvia with PID. With recent discounts they are both at the same price. What would your suggestion be?

[@Wholelattelovepage]

The Profitec Go is going to be a more versatile machine and features much better finishing all around.

[@lisegagne3716]

Great video!! Love your content Buck!!!

[@Wholelattelovepage]

Hey lise, nice to hear from you - to kind!!! 😉

[@michaelb4512]

Could I use ese pods with the Bambino plus?Thanks!

[@Wholelattelovepage]

Hey m, I've never tried pods with the Bambino Plus. The Bambino manual does not mention ESE pod compatibility so I'm going with no. It does come with pressurized single shot (Breville calls it dual wall) filter basket so they might work. Marc

[@TheM41a]

For the price the silvia is the best choice out of all of these.

[@Wholelattelovepage]

Hey T, thanks for sharing your thoughts! Marc

[@frankfowlkes7872]

Hard to beat the Delonghi ECP 3420. I love mine!

[@Wholelattelovepage]

Hi ff, thanks for sharing! Marc

[@rickytb15]

I think the best option and economy is the Gaggia but for me have a big problem and is that theres a gap on the water tank and let pass dust or any insect to the water. I dont know why the Gaggia company let that gap, with just a little more plastic it will have an ermetic tank without any problem.

[@Wholelattelovepage]

Hey ricky, thanks for the comment. For your level of concern I'd recommend using an in reservoir filter like this one: www.wholelattelove.com/products/bwt-bestcup-m-package Beyond particle and carbon filtration to remove chlorination it also has calcium to magnesium ion-exchange resulting in input water that will not cause limescale deposits in the machine. Marc

[@yz3668]

Useful video for someone looking to upgrade !

[@Wholelattelovepage]

Glad you think so! Thanks for the comment! Marc

[@Petercoffeee]

I don't see my DeLonghi Dedica here. Why?

[@Wholelattelovepage]

Hey Peter, I've featured the Dedica in other videos. Didn't include here as out of the box it's designed to use a pressurized filter basket/portafilter setup. Marc

[@garnettbrown]

What happened to the bezzera hobby?

[@Wholelattelovepage]

Hey gb, The Hobby has been featured in past years. Wonderful machine with serious steaming power! Marc

[@seirichards9982]

Love my Gaggia after a year and a bit - just pity the evo had come out now

[@Wholelattelovepage]

Hey sr, Thanks a whole latte for sharing the love! Manufacturers always upgrading products. Marc

[@julesguedry2466]

Great video.

[@BIGFOOT.766]

Any $100 range with those high quality machines. I need a new one soon 😢

[@Wholelattelovepage]

Hey yeti, really nothing I can recommend in the $100 range. There are some very plasticky products at that price but really a waste IMO.

[@thalesrodriguescardoso]

lol at least 300 bucks bruh

[@javoobal]

hey Marc, it would be awesome so see ascasos in these reviews, like the dream

[@Wholelattelovepage]

Hey j, Thanks for the request! Will see what we can do. Marc

[@ConnieWen-i5s]

how about some espresso machines with grinder?

[@Wholelattelovepage]

Sure! Here's a video featuring a selection of entry-level espresso grinders: kzbin.info/www/bejne/gaPLYYuwe71ko5I Hope that helps! Marc

[@ConnieWen-i5s]

thank you@@Wholelattelovepage

[@HasanAli-kd2vx]

Does Double Shot mean double coffee grains and double water? Or just double coffee grains?

[@Wholelattelovepage]

Hi there. A double shot typically indicates twice the brewed espresso final result. To achieve that, the ratio of ground coffee to water remains about the same, thus you would increase both the amount of ground coffee and the amount of brew water over what would be used for a single shot.

[@HasanAli-kd2vx]

@@Wholelattelovepage thank you

[@riccosauve2827]

How do i contact Whole Latte Love

[@Wholelattelovepage]

Hey rs, There's a contact us link in the video description: www.wholelattelove.com/pages/contact-us

[@riccosauve2827]

Thank you

[@RSURRECTED]

Mark, great video once again! Anyt ETA on the ECM Synchronika AMG Edition shipping date? The original shipping date of sept 8th got pushed to oct 1st and now we can't see any ETA..

[@Wholelattelovepage]

Hey R, Thanks for the kind comment. The AMG Synchronikas arrive to us today. Preorders ship early next week after tech check and prep! Marc

[@RSURRECTED]

thanks Mark! @@Wholelattelovepage

[@ologistika]

Is there a machine without the milk thingy? I never drink coffee with milk at home.

[@Wholelattelovepage]

A wonderful option that fits the bill here is the ECM Puristika. www.wholelattelove.com/products/ecm-puristika-single-boiler-espresso-machine

[@matt7662]

I wish Gaggia kept the Classic Pro as is and then added the evo as an upgraded unit with PID and ball joint steam wand. Oh well, still love my GCP.

[@MACTEP_CHOB]

Where are temperature readings ?

[@Wholelattelovepage]

Hi MC, Brew temps?

[@MACTEP_CHOB]

Sure. I`m asking cuz I got one, put a probe in the basket and was blown away. 80 degrees C ! Coffee was drinkable, but way too soft, which points to under-extraction. The fact that heated water goes through cold water ain`t helping. @@Wholelattelovepage

[@Edu1923]

You all NEED to have a video submission contest for best Mark impression and the winner gets something crazy like a Ceado or a Profitec Pro. Love y’all.

[@Wholelattelovepage]

hahahaha - love ya right back! Marc

[@Tokoroegao]

Lelit has some nice options.

[@paolocoletti3424]

Good lord is that Profitec Go RED or SALMON ! What's with their bizarre colour ways for the Go. Would it kill them, to do it in a simpler WHITE or just a CHROME. That Casa V really looks just the best of the line up, just gorgeous....

[@starrekip]

You forgot the bestseller of deloghi. The ECP.

[@Wholelattelovepage]

Hey s, Did I forget or...

[@ashalexander1186]

No Ascaso?

[@Bbarm97]

lelit elizabeth... same price as profitec go for a dual boiler

[@bluemystic7501]

The Elizabeth is $800 more expensive.

[@Bbarm97]

ok maybe where you are located. I got mine for 900 euros new. profitec at the time was 850 @@bluemystic7501

[@CarlosVargas-js8qz]

True for the US market. In Europe Lelit is way less expensive than here in the USA. You can expect to pay around $1,800 for the Elizabeth in US.

[@motoscro951]

Late Nov 2023 I’m seeing the evo for $399 🤠

[@Wholelattelovepage]

Some great deals were available on BF/CM!

[@motoscro951]

@@Wholelattelovepage I’m watching your website and your Amazon listing, waiting for a deal on a red or lobster evo 😁

[@simplyeason]

can i get one for free? i’m currently broke and a student but want to start my brewing journey. ❤

[@Wholelattelovepage]

Hey simply,v check out our current giveaways here: www.wholelattelove.com/pages/whole-latte-love-giveaways

[@simplyeason]

@@Wholelattelovepage 46k entries 😭

[@jairotipple7731]

Wow, Dave Grohl is in charge of costumers feedbacks?

[@hhanjali]

Talking too much like an infomercial guy. otherwise decent review

[@thalesrodriguescardoso]

Gaggia is expensive af tho

[@Wholelattelovepage]

Hey t, hmmm... they Gaggia is the least expensive machine in this group.

[@josephhetzenauer1890]

These are not beginners for entr-level home espresso machines. You can get very good espresso from some machines way cheaper than the bambino that the average person will not see the difference or care frankly the difference. 300$ for the vast majority of people is not entry level enough for the majority of people wanting to get a machine. This is like recommending 300$ plus automatic burr grinders as a starter grinder. It would've been better to recommend a used machine or some machines you can get for 150$ on sale. Waiting might not be for everyone, but waiting for sales on 300$ machines or 250$ machines is a good idea You can get a good machine on sale for 150$ area. A hand grinder would be good to start out with to be able to get a good grind for espresso.

[@josephhetzenauer1890]

These recommendations may be good for newbies starting out with a home barista hobby. But definitely not "Entry-Level Home Espresso Machines for Beginners"

[@Wholelattelovepage]

Thanks for sharing. I refer to these products as "machines" Their build quality, expected lifespan and capabilities far exceeds what one gets from plasticky appliance grade espresso makers. Those typically use smaller, pressurized only filter baskets and have poor thermal capabilities.

[@Wholelattelovepage]

Hi j, thanks for sharing your opinions! Marc

[@josephhetzenauer1890]

@@Wholelattelovepage I'd agree with that statement. You can also get a not plastic metal machine that can make well more than 9 bar pressure on sale most of the the time for 160$ which is more approachable for a general audience. This is good advice for hobbiests. Most people that want an upgrade from Starbucks cannot afford a 300$ machine.

[@Ledman301]

Whatever! That’s just your opinion.

[@LimaFoxtrot]

Phil Dunphy looking a little haggered these days

[@Wholelattelovepage]

lol

[@Dr.Schlitz]

Dude - you have a radio voice. Try starting your videos by saying “In a world … .” 😂

[@Wholelattelovepage]

Hahaha, hopefully not a radio face! I do play the movie trailer VO game with friends and family from time to time. Marc

[@TheSaberFace]

Gaggia is not an entry-level machine iykyk

[@Wholelattelovepage]

explain

[@TheSaberFace]

@Wholelattelovepage i meant it as a joke😂, cuz most people who get gaggia mod it into a top end espresso machine

[@adjusted-bunny]

An espresso is consumed best with a cigarette. Why is there no smoking on this channel?

[@Wholelattelovepage]

hahahaha

[@blackimp4987]

it's annoying German companies use Italian indications like "pompa" for deceiving buyers about the origin of their machine

[@Wholelattelovepage]

Hi b, thanks for the comment. To be clear, ECM/Profitec has manufactured machines in both Italy (outside of Milan) and in Germany. Their head designer is Italian. I don't think they are trying to deceive anyone. Boxes for many of their machines are printed with the slogan "Handmade in Germany". Here's my interview with ECM/Profitec's CEO at their manufacturing facility in Italy: kzbin.info/www/bejne/gWG1emiomd9njdk Marc

[@blackimp4987]

@@Wholelattelovepage oh it's a rare thing. So I apologize with them.

[@piplup10203854]

Alright I got to know, out of the box with no upgrades which machine is better Caggia Classic Evo Pro or the Breville Bambino Plus? Assuming they're the same price and paired with either an Encore ESP Grinder or DF64 Gen 2 grinder which one puts out the best espresso? I can only get one and I am leaning towards the Bambino plus because I found it on sale for 299 but I got to say I really like the way the classic evo pro looks but the Bambio has that thermo jet right. I am brand new to the whole coffee ecosphere and only got an aero press but I prefer dark roast but have switched to medium light rose and I am loving that color and flavor a lot more but I don't know if it's just my lack of understanding and skill but my coffee always turns out super bitter and sour so I am having to use a lot of sugar in an almond creamer to get a nice foam and make it a lot more balanced. I have had a coffee black that I enjoyed but I cannot for the life of me remember the brand unfortunately 🥲 but I am hoping to get one setup and be good, I really can't afford to have a lot of gear and stuff. My max budget would be the DF64 plus either of these machines. Thank you for the time :)

[@Izolacija]

Bambino is better. I hate when people are stating that Gaggia is better because when you heavily mod it , it will be better. Maybe!

[@piplup10203854]

@@Izolacija I did end up going with the Bambino plus :) I been loving it a lot honestly it makes just what I need a simple cappuccino every other day

[@Peter-Hodges]

This might be a stupid question but what is the clearance on the ports filters on the Bambino and the Gaggia? Would I be able to fit a 8-10oz cappuccino cup under them when brewing?

[@Wholelattelovepage]

Hi PH, No such thing as the SQ! Clearance under spouts are Bambino 5", Gaggia 2.75".