Espresso Machines at ANY budget! $125 to $6000 (buyers guide)

Espresso Machines for Home at any budget and price.
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$125:
Flair Neo: geni.us/9k718b
Grinder (NormCore): geni.us/rXucKg
PicoPresso: geni.us/A12Cl1
Milk Frother (Nanofoamer): geni.us/QARvB
$250 Kit:
Flair Signature: geni.us/bAYTZn
Grinder (NormCore): geni.us/rXucKg
Milk Frother (Nanofoamer): geni.us/QARvB
$400 Kit:
Breville Bambino Espresso: geni.us/UK23
Normcore Hand Grinder: geni.us/rXucKg
Breville Coffee Grinder: geni.us/Z5qTPXL
$550 Kit:
Gaggia Classic Pro: geni.us/cf6CS
Normcore Hand Grinder: geni.us/rXucKg
Baratza Sette 30: geni.us/lLOzQ
$700:
Breville Barista Express: geni.us/nRopasL
$850 Kit:
Gaggia Classic Pro: geni.us/cf6CS
Baratza Sette 270: geni.us/J76C
$1000 Kit:
Flair 58: flairespresso.com/products/es...
Baratza Sette 270: geni.us/J76C
Gaggia Classic Pro: geni.us/cf6CS
Eureka Mignon: idrinkcoffee.com/products/eur...
$1500:
Rancillo Silvia: geni.us/fcF2
Niche Zero: www.nichecoffee.co.uk
$2000:
Breville Dual Boiler: geni.us/fT0ft9
Baratza Sette 270: geni.us/J76C
$3500:
Lelit Bianca: geni.us/hrZu5B
Niche Zero: www.nichecoffee.co.uk
$4700:
Decent Espresso: decentespresso.com/
Niche Zero: Niche Zero: www.nichecoffee.co.uk
$6000:
La Marzocco Linea Mini: geni.us/lzQo
Niche Zero: Niche Zero: www.nichecoffee.co.uk
Lagom P64: geni.us/M0NlDkA
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► Origami: geni.us/yeHtZHC
► V60: geni.us/3faIhf5
► Chemex: geni.us/CRQN
► Fellow Stagg X: geni.us/ZkO4A
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Time code:
0:00 - Intro
0:54 - $125
1:36 - $250
2:38 - $400
3:15 - $550
4:14 - $700
4:46 - $850
5:20 - $1000
8:13 - $1500
9:14 - $2000
9:59 - $3500
10:49 - $4700
11:25 - $6000

[@KyleRowsell]

I’d truly appreciate if you smash that like button 👍🏼 which setup did I miss?

[@zenjamin6983]

Haha this is very close to the list of recommendations I made to a colleague this week. Great vid, clear story!

[@Srv02]

I already did, thank you for that Kyle. I guess you could've stopped at 1,5-2k$, because this is probably the mark where "normies" would stop paying attention and stick to their similar priced all in one machines. For me the LMLM is a beautiful, durable machine, but the horizontal lever is just a fancy dip switch and you cannot do flow profiling with it. So why bother spending so much money? I only started recently with Espresso (after researching a full year) and I went with an ECM Puristika and a 1ZPresso K-Plus ... waiting for the WW KEY Grinder. :) Not cheap, no milk, but very small footprint and a E61 grouphead with all the bells and whistles (temperature sensor, flow profiling) I could've asked.

[@kpurpose1078]

Hi Kyle, what about the ECM Synchronika? What are your thoughts on that machine … with flow control.

[@KyleRowsell]

@@kpurpose1078 great machine! Well designed. For the price and value I’d personally opt for the Bianca but I understand why others would prefer the ECM.

[@playfate20]

Great video Kyle! What about the Nomad for $230 (as a Flair alternative)?

[@TexelGuy]

Pro-tip for the Flair Neo: You can unscrew the bottom part of the pressurized portafilter and essentially turn it into a non-pressurized basket and use proper espresso fine grinds with it, I've been making much better espresso with it now without the pressurized bottom.

[@KyleRowsell]

Thanks for sharing friend!

[@crwper]

Great video. As a Gaggia Classic Pro owner, I would add that these machines have incredible community support for repair and modification. This means you can get in cheap, and later on you can add a 9 bar OPV and PID for a couple hundred bucks and breathe new life into the machine.

[@KyleRowsell]

Love it! Thanks for the comment

[@halflo]

I recommend this machine to people starting out because of the community. The Silvia has a very robust community as well. Both have great parts availability.

[@sAmiZZle82]

The Gaggia also lets you do a very primitive form of pre-infusion or flow profiling by diverting water through the steam wand. The only frustrating thing can be the lack of steam pressure if you miss the sweet spot to start steaming before the boiler turns off again

[@rsilvers129]

Yeah but the flip side of that is why is it missing PID and proper pressure to begin with?

[@ian54589]

​@@sAmiZZle82yeah I quickly put the PID kit on my GCP for this reason

[@canadian_coffe_guy4690]

Great video Kyle. I currently have the Breville Dual Boiler paired with Ceado E37J grinder. Love it so far!

[@BensCoffeeRants]

Quickmill Silvano was my first machine that could steam milk and brew coffee at the same time, it's a bit of a unique one since it's not quite a dual boiler it has brew boiler, and a thermoblock but has an extra vibratory pump so it can do both at the same time, which I probably utilized all but like 5x in the 10 years I used it :D Funny how having a machine that can do both was such a priority for me when i was shopping for a machine. Lasted 10+ years with basically no maintenance (before I upgraded and re-sold it), so I was pretty happy with it.

[@Junk_Druggler]

Great vid bud, thanks for the insight. Been rocking the Eureka Mignon Specialita for a year now and it's an absolute work horse. Such a good grinder. Been on the prowl for a decent espresso machine for an aspiring coffee brewing lab coat owner and the Gaggia sounds like something I really need to look into. Thanks again bud

[@KyleRowsell]

Thanks for watching friend!

[@TripleDDDD]

My setup is all over the place: Flair classic with the Commandate Handgrinder for nerding around plus a Breville Barista and a cheapo electric grinder for the daily quick coffees. The Baratza Sette is on the list for Xmas gifts to myself.

[@calvinpitts6243]

Just imagine all the possibilities when you include used gear. I got an older Rancilio Silvia and Rocky, both in perfect working condition, for $700 combined.

[@KyleRowsell]

absolutely! I didn't include used or modded gear but the world of possibilities truly opens up when you go there.

[@nreivajcg]

Awesome. Where you get it from?

[@MCDreng]

I got a Mazzer Super Jolly (Reddit used gear snag) and a Rancilio Silvia (extremely lucky goodwill find) for a combined $490.

[@felixboldenheimer9838]

Can only recommend going used. Got one old but sturdy gaggia Classic from 2001 on ebay paired with a Nemolux grinder for 75€

[@calvinpitts6243]

@@nreivajcg scouting out eBay and marketplace! Takes some time but you can save money.

[@hunterillsley8665]

I’m running the Normcore grinder and the flair Neo (without the gasket) and I LOVE IT.

[@timothyisidro4215]

I'm using the Delonghi Dedica, switched out the original pressurized portafilter it comes with and instead used a 51mm bottomless portafilter. Also switch out the panarello steam wand with a proper stainless steam wand. For the grinder, I paired it with the Timemore C2 with their new E&B Burr, VASTLY improving its fine grind capabilities. Total comes to about $350 (Php17,000 where I'm from)

[@carpNcoffee]

My intro setup was great. Sage babycino plus, the auto milk frothing was fantastic. Paired with the lelit fred grinder. Before moving onto a bianca and niche when I was ready to up my game.

[@drandrewtan]

My setup is the Flair 58, Fellow Stagg kettle and the Niche Zero (and I use Bellman steamer for the milk). I intentionally picked this set up over the La Pavoni for more consistent temperature control and much easier maintenance. I reckon it’s a pretty under rated set up, and I’m glad there’s a push for manual espresso machines that could rival machines that cost thousands. On the expensive side, Olympia Cremina would be nice but it’s $7000 here in Australia, and I’m not so sure whether its espresso quality justifies its price.

[@KyleRowsell]

Thanks for the thoughts and comment friend!

[@aaronferguson8161]

The temp issues for La Pavoni are a little overstated. I can do back to back shots and the only thermal management needed is running the portafilter under cold water and putting it in the group head for a minute or so. By the time I'm done grinding it's back to whatever Brea temp I want.

[@Assenayo]

Another Aussie here. I too picked Flair 58 over La Pavoni for the same reasons and have the same setup you have with the exception of the Bellman, instead have a Bialetti Tutocremma which on a gas cooktop is pretty quick, simple and effective. That being said I don't do milk that much, on weekends I get to enjoy the espresso as is, but most times I will make a long black in a thermal mug and take it to work.

[@scottleggejr]

On the high end, add in Slayer SG, La Marzocco GS3. You could do a whole video on the "features" and differentiation on all of the units as you spend more. Boiler count/volume is a whole thing, then boiler vs HX is a whole thing. Then you have rotary vs vibe pumps. Then you have temp control PID vs thermostat + temp control/variance/thermal volume+stability. Then you have not only flow control, but flow profiling and the linea mini has neither with a fixed gicleur. You also have internal vs external pump, internal reservoir vs plumbed, etc. There's a ton of stuff to take in to account when picking a machine for home. Then for a business, you have all of that plus you need certifications like UL and NSF.

[@timhuynh3064]

Dude great video I want to upgrade my machine so thanks for the overall heads up. I have the bambino and got the silenzio from watching one of your videos, now it's time to upgrade the machine. Keep them coming.

[@KyleRowsell]

Glad I could help

[@scottydoggymama]

Great options. Just sent to my friend who was saying he feels it is time to get another machine. We both had the breville before. Mine died after 10 years his died after 5 years. I had told him to get the Bambino. Me, I finally saved up enough and last month got the La Pavoni Europiccola. I have owned a Baratza Virtuoso Preciso for 11 years and got a Comandante C40 cos you must have coffee in a power failure.

[@AngelPrimerSector]

Recently bought the Breville Barista Express and im so excited to have it already, love the looks and the feedback ive seen... and i think ill be happy as im upgrading from a cheap one i received as a gift from work that got me into espresso! 😂

[@andreavon5929]

Hey Kyle, great video once again and really loved all your choices, I wish you and your family a great end of year!

[@KyleRowsell]

You as well!

[@arianyazdannik968]

Great video as always kyle. For me the perfect combo will be p64 and decent. I worked with linea mini a couple of weeks actually. While it is a very well built machine, it lacks many features that i personally value a lot as an example pressure profiling. (I know it seems like it has a pressure profiling mechanism like linea but it is actually a on-off button). Also a Lagom mini/flair 58 combo will be a very enjoyable and affordable combo.

[@KyleRowsell]

Hey Arian! Thanks for this comment friend! And thanks for watching!

[@Radio4ManLeics]

Yeah, but for the money it does a great job and it's excellent, excellent value. You ould compare the Lilet with machines 2ce the price.

[@wearenotchefs2241]

For those on a budget, I recommend getting a DF64 over the Niche Zero. It's half the price, even after upgrading to the titanium burrs, provides zero retention as well, and has a stronger motor.

[@KyleRowsell]

Another great option! Again - if you can find them in stock!

[@BensCoffeeRants]

DF64 is a great value, but I find it does better with lighter roasts than medium-> Darker stuff, so if that's your thing the Eureka burrs or conical burrs tend to do a better job with that (less clarity or a more traditional profile seems beneficial there).

[@RavenSWE]

What about for someone in the UK? The NZ is only £100 more than the DF64 with stock burrs, and most mods I’m seeing for the DF64 to address the annoyances are sold from USA and would cost a lot to ship. By the time I get it to where I want it I can pay for the NZ..

[@wearenotchefs2241]

@@RavenSWE Hmm I'd imagine that if the costs associated with getting/modding the DF equate the the price of the NZ, I'd just grab the NZ. For where I'm from (SG), the cost of the DF + titanium burrs were less than half the price of the NZ, and were readily in stock (unlike the DF). I'd say both are great grinders, but go for the one that makes the most sense cost-wise in this case

[@kenroman777]

What is wrong with DF64 with stock burrs with Barista Pro ? Or would Sette 270/wi be as good?

[@user-lv7ph7hs7l]

For 700 ish I went for Lelit Anna PID + Mignon Silenzio. 2.5x boiler size of GC, way better temp stability and steam power, built in pressure gauge and PID. 57 mm is an annoyance but everytime I get accessories I find more. I think that's a far superior choice over a GC.

[@BPFACTS88]

just got a Lelit P41PLUST for 300 second hand, got a mazzer super jolly for 200 second hand. before this I had a nuova simonelli cup commercial plumbed in, the grinder was absolutely good enough for it. I don't think actually that this grinder is not good enough for almost anything which is ridiculous at 200 usd. the Lelit I like, but after the commercial NS it's obviously a step back. at least it heats up way quicker :)

[@wvrnstng]

In US anna is definitely a superior choice, PID for only 120$ more than GC. Here in Russia to get PL41T you would have to pay 230$ over the GC. A price of lelit fred.

[@Ferryberg1]

First off, awesome vid Kyle!! I was hoping you would do a follow up to the coffee kits setup video :)! Keep these up, they are my favorites. My setup is also 850 bucks! I've got a Gaggia Classic Pro with a DF64. They're both all white and I'm absolutely in love with it and the espresso it produces. Just wanted to say hello from a big fan from the Netherlands

[@KyleRowsell]

Thank you! Much appreciated!

[@danielolivaresd]

I've been using Flair Neo + Bottomless portafilter and the Baratza Sette 30. If you don't want to deal with manual grinding, I don't think you can get better bang for the buck. Thanks for the video!

[@michaelcibula9552]

Hey Kyle! Another great video, great stuff! Curious, have you used an Ecm Synchronika? It's in the range of your Lelit right? Curious how much do you think you're missing out with a dual boiler like those vs the Breville dual boiler?

[@tallergeese]

Great choices! One of my friends was recently getting into espresso and I gave really similar suggestions. One thing that's caught my eye at the Flair Signature price point is the Nomad espresso machine though. Have you had any experience with it? It seems like it pulls really high quality shots and has a bit more flexibility/capability due to its large water reserve. I actually have a Flair Signature, so I know what it can do, but if the Nomad can pull similar quality, it actually kind of seems like the better buy.

[@KyleRowsell]

I haven’t used the nomad yet! Thanks for the comment!

[@nicklorigo3507]

My first "espresso setup" was the wacacao nanopresso and a random no brand hand grinder from costplus world market lol. i would use a power drill to grind my coffee😂 now i have the gaggia classic and Ceado E5P and i love the combo. May upgrade to another brewer in a few years

[@timgerber5563]

My current setup: Rocket Appartamento with an Eureka Mignon MCI (that’s the old home model before they came out with the new range). I am currently looking to upgrade. I would like more control over temperature and flow as well as a grinder that is capable of single dosing and offers more flavour clarity. Also, I don’t like wood applications. What would you go for? Please comment below. Setups I am currently contemplating: Machines: - Profitec Pro700 fitted with the flow control kit - LM Linea Mini with the brew pedal mod Grinders: - Eureka Mignon Oro XL - Niche Zero (I don’t like it’s look though) What other machines or grinders would you suggest? Upper price limit for a machine 5000€. Upper limit for a grinder 1500€.

[@vincentwilliam809]

You did not disappoint when you put the linea mini on top of the list… numero uno in the game!!

[@KyleRowsell]

It's a beauty!

[@paryzfilip]

What a cinematic intro, Kyle! You've outdid yourself! Amazing :D

[@KyleRowsell]

Thanks Filip! Always trying to improve!

[@BPFACTS88]

mazzer super jollys or minis can be bought second hand for around 200 usd, can be modded to be doserless and when used correctly they're 100% retention-free. literally down to 0.1 grams - while the grind quality is even better than the niche with the bigger flat burrs.

[@SippersSocialClub]

Just purchased a Silvia Pro! Got a great price on account of the ProX version just being released, also waiting on my Niche Zero to arrive :) Total setup cost was about $2050

[@KyleRowsell]

Wonderful!

[@ethanjto]

I think a better grinder is much higher priority. I personally went with a Profitec Pro 700 and Monolith Flat MAX instead of something like the La Marzocco and Niche in the same price range.

[@lastmountpit]

I own the Niche Zero and a modified Gaggia Classic Pro, with a PID, naked portafilter, 9 bar OPV mod and pressure gauge. Got the Gaggia second hand for 200$ and the mods added another 150$. Got the NZ for 400$ from a friend. This 750$ setup produces coffee that a new and unmoded 3000$ setup will do, if you are not interested in milk! So if you are on a budget, look for bargains and get your hands dirty!

[@AlejandroPDX]

I love these videos. Great options and quick, solid insight. I was unaware that the Normcore grinder was able to grind for espresso for a non-pressurized basket. $90 is a steal then

[@KyleRowsell]

The version 2 has a better ability to do so, yes.

[@matthewmuscat5566]

I love youre videos . I have the breville barista express paired with eureka specialita grinder i love it my eureka specialita has trully changed my espresso game .

[@KyleRowsell]

Thanks for watching!

[@karldavin]

I paired my Gaggia Classic Pro with DF64 grinder. Works great!

[@KyleRowsell]

Great pair! Thanks for sharing!

[@leumas75]

As much as you (and many others) seem married to the Gaggia Classic Pro, when I was looking for an intro Prosumer-grade machine I found the Bezzera Hobby to be more consistent in temperature output and just more enjoyable to use in general. I paired it with the Eureka Mignon Silencio and haven’t had a moment’s regret; nor have I felt the need (at least not yet) to start considering upgrades.

[@BPFACTS88]

many Lelits are also better, particularly when compared to newer GCs.

[@barflybzzzz]

Respectfully, I think you're overlooking the budget contraints that are the backbone of this video. The Bezzera Hobby may very well be superior to the Gaggia; it is also nearly double the price. The cheapest I've found it new is 799, which pretty much blows up the $550, $700, and $850 price points if you need to pair it with a quality grinder. For $1000, yes, but will the grinder you purchase with the leftover $200 be the quality of the Silenzio?

[@ReikGPC]

Hi Kyle, I am thinking since a while about upgrading my espresso setup from a delonghi dedeca 685 + graef cm 800. Lately I have been thinking about the Lelit Bianca + Baratza Forte AP. What do you think about this combination? Should I think about the niche zero instead the baratza and if so, why :-)?

[@carlesmiquel]

I absolutely agree with your setups. sometimes, especially in other countries (even in the US), getting a Niche is like finding gold in your courtyard. But, yes... I believe you nailed it. Some people would've chosen the Profitec 700 for its PID capabilities. In the end, ECM. La Marzocco, Crem, and so on are excellent machines at the top. For sure, why should I get a Silvia if I can get a Gaggia Classic?. It's the same but nicely built. I believe there's something you didn't address: fixing these machines. The electronic ones (Brevilles or Sages) areblack boxes, like a computer (as is the Decent). If anything stops working, that's it. The other machines... well, you can open them and fix everything with a couple of tools. That also goes for some electronically controlled grinders. I would stay away from them until they show they can last 10 or 20 years flawlessly as the Gaggia, the Silvia or the Lelit do. My grinder is 30 years old... just switching its fat burrs every three or four years make it a beast of an investment.

[@penultimatename6677]

I agree with your comments. The Breville is a black box because it is an appliance. Where the higher end models are machines. Appliances have a shelf life. The Niche maybe great. Never owned one. It is a conical burr. One very influential person in Seattle says that is what you want. Most baristas would say use a flat burr grinder. I might argue the grinder is just as important as the espresso machine. The boutique grinders go on sale a few times a year and sell out in a matter of minutes.

[@habitsofsuccess4322]

My main issue with coffee channels that throw out a million machines at crazy prices is that they don't mention the cost of upkeep. I've read about the upkeep (maintenance, replacing parts, etc) of machines like the La Marzocco surpassing the cost of the machine after a handful of years and this was for personal use. Which is crazy for the price you pay. It sounds like a regular occurrence and definitely needs to be talked about more often.

[@benmarchal]

I would featured the 9barista somewhere in there. It's a different setup but an option to consider if only pulling 1 shot. I'd be curious to hear your views on it.

[@TC_Prof]

Love this Kyle great job always champ 🙏😎💕

[@KyleRowsell]

Thank you friend!

[@mfilipe77]

Hey Bud, my wife and I are opening a coffee trailer, what espresso machine would you recommend? We want to keep a tight budget as we starting? We have the Breville Barista pro. Wondering if that's enough or should we one of the ones in this video!

[@DriftaholiC]

My anywhere setup that I take camping, work, travel and at home: 9Barista $450, Bellman 50SS Steamer $100, 1Zpresso J-MAX $200. Making a Cappuccino better then a café anywhere you have fire, cooktop or portable stove priceless.

[@GadgetsGearCoffee]

What was that transparent box on the bambino for?

[@Amariths1]

Hi, I want to thank you for the video cause i decide to get the gaggia classic pro as my first espresso machine! But i went over kill and also bought a niche zero to pair with it, also, so i can use it as my daily coffee grinder along as my espresso grinder! But the problem im having here is my niche wont be arriving for a little while, really bit the gun there, so im looking for a cheap grinder that i can still get the most use out of until my niche get in! That what i get for treating myself for turning 30.

[@thecaldou]

I honestly believe that flat burrs are a real upgrade compared to conical ones. I am using a gaggia classic pro and a eureka mignon instataneo and they work great together

[@KyleRowsell]

Hey! Thanks for the comment! I do believe this is a matter of preference but I understand the sentiment!

[@va7880]

Kyle would love to see an espresso comparison video featuring local cafes or Starbucks/dunkin type locations. Great content my friend !

[@KyleRowsell]

Great idea! Thanks for watching.

[@mrhoborz]

This is a great breakdown, thanks

[@KyleRowsell]

Thanks for watching!

[@frewert1969]

Have you gotten a chance to check out the Breville Barista Pro? It's $100 more than the BBE, but it has a better PID, a stepless grinder, a more powerful steam wand, and a built-in shot timer. It's not a 58mm, but it's easily a step above the BBE.

[@zchowdhury6468]

Excellent video Kyle. Very informative and delivered in great style. Where in Canada can I find Linea Mini at the price you mentioned? Thanks

[@damienhallsworth3314]

Proud owner of a used Rancilio Silvia & Niche Zero! It's a great combo. I was struggling with an old Rancilio Rocky grinder until I upgraded to the Niche and my shots improved immensely. The Silvia is built like a tank so they make great 2nd hand bargains. And I love the 58mm portafilter because I can use VST baskets with it.

[@KyleRowsell]

Thanks for sharing!

[@RavenSWE]

I’ve just picked up a Silvia v5 in basically perfect condition for £220 ($300), absolute steal. Waiting for Niche to restock in June and I’ll have my first setup for a very reasonable price

[@simonecordeddu4783]

On the cheaper end, how does the Cafflano Kompresso compare against the Wacaco Picopresso? Also, is a Timemore an ok alternative to the normcore?

[@wilsentwins]

What should I choose between flair pro 2 vs gaggia classic pro?

[@michaelcibula9552]

Hey Kyle, great video as always :). Been meaning to ask which grinders do you recommend that are more premium to the Niche? I'm particularly interested in flat burr options.

[@KyleRowsell]

Have you looked into the p64 from option O?

[@BensCoffeeRants]

Lots of options, P64, P100, Kafatek Monolith Flat, Max, or Weber EG-1 if you want a similar single dosing grinder and have a bigger budget.

[@thelaughingstorm6488]

For those on a budget pick up a second hand Gaggia Classic, picked mine up for £300, brand new they're around £500

[@MartinSimonnet]

Any thoughts on the Elektra Verve? Haven’t seen it talked about as much as other machines and it seems pretty great. Thanks for your video! Makes me decide to go for a Eureka Mignon grinder - while I save up for an EG1 ;)

[@bossman2146]

I just modded my gaggia classic by adding a PID, flow control knob, and 9 bar OPV spring. This basically makes a $500 machine to a $3000 machine. Highly recommend!

[@KyleRowsell]

Love it! Thanks for the comment

[@louisd95714]

Good for you, but not sure why they didn't include PID as an option upon purchase. I would have gladly sent about $200.00 more for that option.

[@xjaireyes]

Do you have any experience with the ascaso steel uno/duo? Rly like d look of the machine but quite unsure if its any good, tho seems ok on paper..

[@robertr7636]

Hello Kyle ! Thanks for the video...Quick question : I can not decide between the sage barista express vs the kit Gaggia Pro + Eureka grinder...what would you recommend and why ? Both in the same budget in my country :)

[@yasirisfernandez1802]

Great vid as always! I have a Gaggia Classic Pro and Sette 270. The tough part for me is how to dial in because as a noob it’s hard to identify what a “good shot” should really taste like. 🙏🏼If you can recommend a specific coffee and grind setting that you know pairs well with the Gaggia, that would be super super helpful as a starting point.

[@timgerber5563]

Hey! I would first try to get in the ballpark of good: 1:2 - 1:2.5 ratio within 25-30 seconds. Shorter ratios for darker espresso and longer ratio for lighter espresso. Also shorter ratios if you drink it as a milk bevarage and longer ratios if you like pure espresso more and find shorter ratios „too dense“ meaning too concentrated for you to identify taste notes. Similarly with brew time: shorter for darker and longer for lighter espresso. Say you have a medium roast coffee, put in 18g and managed to get 40g out in 25 seconds (2.25 ratio). What do you taste? If it’s too sour, first try going for a 2.5 ratio and just let the coffee run a few seconds longer so that you have 45g in 27-28 seconds. If it’s still too sour you grind finer aiming for 45g out in 30 seconds. Continue searching for a sweet and balanced shot this way grinding finer and finer. However, I would go much over 35 seconds. Basically that’s the process I would go for with any coffee. Start out with a shorter brew time and continue grinding finer until you feel that the sourness is matched with a round, full taste (sweetness). Not like sugar sweetness, but rather like a balanced and integrated sourness. To learn how to differentiate between sour and bitter try the salami shot or try to pull 6 different espressi: 1. 1:2.5 ratio in 25 seconds (sour and weak, likely not fully extracted) 2. 1:2 ratio in 25 seconds (very sour, very dense, likely not fully extracted if it’s not a dark roast) 3. 1:2.5 ratio in 30 seconds (should be pretty balanced for a medium roast, can be too bitter for a dark roast, but some people like it like that) 4. 1:2 ratio in 30 seconds (should also be pretty balanced for a lighter/medium roast, some people like it like that, but it can be too bitter for a dark roast and again some people like it like that) 5. 1:2.5 ratio in 35 seconds (you should beginn to be able to taste overextraction or too strong bitterness with dark roasts, for lighter/medium roast this can again be good depending on coffee and preference) 6. 1:2 ratio in 35 seconds (should also be too bitter with most darker roasts, but well extracted with lighter roasts) I hope that helped a bit.

[@yasirisfernandez1802]

@@timgerber5563 Thank you!! This is the most comprehensive and helpful set of instructions I have ever read to dial in an espresso. Thank you so much! I really appreciate this! Going to try dialing in again this weekend. 👍🏼

[@penultimatename6677]

@@yasirisfernandez1802 I basically agree with the previous comment. Which means you should buy a scale if you do not own one. Most people use the Acaia Lunar but there are others. I might add whole beans with citric notes will taste more citrus than ones with chocolate notes. Also a light roast will bring out the taste of the bean where as a darker roast will bring out the flavor of the roast. Almost like a BBQ. Lightly BBQ meat will bring out the meat flavor where highly BBQ cooked will bring out the BBQ flavor. It depends on what you like. Also a whole bean roasted should sit for a week from the roast date. If you are buying beans at a grocery store then good luck with that.

[@13Mappy]

@@timgerber5563 what an incredible response 👏

[@robertcrabtree9050]

What are your thoughts of la spaziale dream t? I have a budget of $2,500 dollars and am stuck between that and the breville dual boiler. I was looking also at the profitec 600 but didn’t like the lack of features compared to the other two. I already have a grinder (df64) and am curious if you have thoughts on those two machines or if you have a different preferred option. Blessings!

[@mshohman]

Nice vid Kyle, as always

[@KyleRowsell]

Thanks for watching!

[@joem3793]

My goal set up is the Bezzera Duo MN with the Weberworkshop Key grinder. I would love to save up for the Victoria Arduino Eagle One Prima instead, but that would cost more than the set up I mentioned plus no grinder..so maybe sometime in the future that'll be my end game upgrade

[@tuanluongminh1751]

Flair 58 and Kinu M47 classic. They’re my set up now 😊

[@KyleRowsell]

Sounds fantastic!

[@tuanluongminh1751]

@@KyleRowsell thanks, Kyle. But I think it’s enough time to upgrade grinder machine. Could you please advise me Niche Zero or Eureka Mignon XL? Highly appreciate that!

[@123marijn321]

Great video Kyle! Especially the cheaper setups will help a lot of people getting into espresso! Personally my setup consists of the Flair 58 (which should arrive soon, still using the Signature atm) with the DF64 with SSP Multipurpose burrs, and a Nanofoamer.

[@KyleRowsell]

I hope it does! If enough people are interested I’ll go in more depth with these entry price points in the future.

[@donh1572]

As a Rancilio Silvia and a Gaggia owner and as a very experienced barista. I would say a Flair with a pressure gauge will make better and more consistent espresso. I know many former Silvia owners have said the same

[@KyleRowsell]

Can’t argue with you! Many people desire steaming capabilities so that’s something I consider in listing these machines.

[@donh1572]

@@KyleRowsell I fully get that too. But it is amazing how the flair community pumps out amazing latte art using a simple French press or nanofoamer. In addition with the inconsistency you get from the Silvia espresso. It tends to impart off flavors in your milk drinks. No one likes bitter microfoam

[@CelebrityLyrics]

Also if you use RO filter water I dont think there will be any limestain so doesn't that make Third Wave Water useless?

[@alfredocalzadilla7251]

I just spent 2600 on a lelit Elizabeth and Eureka Atom grinder. This is my first espresso machine and grinder setup. I think Inmight have spent a little too much 😕. Just got it and have not used it yet; I hope that the learning curve is not that steep!

[@CelebrityLyrics]

How is the Eureka Mignon Silenzio bette than the Brew Proor Specialita or Crono? How about Eureka Helios 65 or 80?

[@Penskeeee]

Did a whole bunch of research and testing around in coffeeshops & espresso machine distributors and ended up with a Lelit Bianca v3 paired with the DF64 + SSP HU burrs. Would have gone with the DE1 Pro and the Niche Zero but I honestly prefer to tinker with the mechanical profiling paddle on the Bianca and the flat (not to mention upgradable) burrs on the DF64. Great video nonetheless!

[@drcasper]

hey I know this comes late, but what's the price bracket for diminishing returns? tia

[@jhomrich89]

I honestly think the Quick Mill Anita or the Bezzera BZ13 both deserved to be on here paired with a DF64 or a Baratza for the around 2 grand price. Hardly anyone makes an affordable heat exchanger machine these days the value for the money both of those offer especially with the Quick Mill getting into a full feature E61 Italian built machine for under 2k (love my quick Mill) and the Bezzera being NSF rated perfect for a small catering business, or a small gallery and an optional programable model very difficult to overlook. I think if you do a reboot you should considering adding one or both of those to the list.

[@GB-nn8uw]

Great video. I am wanting to get into proper espressos now. Quality of the espresso is #1 priority, then also the quality of the machine. No budget. I don't mind a couple steps, but I do not see myself getting to into the science with a very manual machine. What would you recommend for best match for me? Thank you

[@Ramu-10]

Kinda surprised you didn't pair the flair 58 with a Kinu M47... Speaking of which is this pair any good?

[@brianherman503]

I know it wasn't in the video, but does anyone have experience with La Pavoni lever machines? I don't know how they compare to the machines on this video, but OMG are they beautiful! Great video, as always Kyle!

[@KyleRowsell]

Shall we cover la pavoni in the future?

[@user-ey9bt7fs6n]

@@KyleRowsell why yes we should.

[@brianherman503]

The Italians have STYLE!

[@raiuno90]

Yes! La Pavoni is a beauty, but also the Olympia Cremina.......

[@brianherman503]

@@raiuno90 I had never seen one before. Looks like they are hard to come by!

[@BensCoffeeRants]

Other Good options to consider: 1zPresso Hand Grinders, DF64 electric grinder, QuickMill Silvano Hybrid dual boiler (Boiler + Thermoblock with PID) La Pavoni Europicolla or Similar Lever Machine is also a great budget option (smaller portafilter size, manual lever) Lelit Elizabeth (mini dual boiler) La Spaziale machines (dual boilers, great features such as volumetric brewing, but smaller portafilters) Quickmill Vetrano 2b or Profitec Pro 700 / ECM Synchronika, (higher end dual boilers similar to the Bianca) For beginners especially I'd avoid HX (heat exchanger) machines. Agree/Disagree?

[@rinky_dinky]

I'd like you to talk about spring lever machines like the Olympia cremina SL or the profitec pro80p or bezerra strega

[@masteroli47]

I bought a Gaggia and a Sette 270 and I'm still struggling with the Gaggia. I always end up with a sour taste and the shots are really inconsistent. I'll have my grind size set for one shot and it will work fine and the next shot will come out either really slowly or way to fast. Seems to be related with the machine pushing with too much pressure. I would love a Bianca though. But for the moment I'm enjoying filter coffees (V60, Clever Dripper, Aeropress, Chemex, etc).

[@louisd95714]

I hope you resolved the issue by now, but if not, am thinking you might want to add PID, flow control, and the nine bar spring to your Classic Pro. The nine bar spring would provide nine bars at the group head, and it's relatively easy to install. As for the rest of the mods, they are more involved. Also, make sure the coffee you purchase is specifically for espresso. Any others would potentially provide a sour taste in my experience.

[@arthurzuniga6063]

Kyle, can you review the Fiorenzato All Ground grinder, and also the Asobu pour over/carafe?

[@brownzys7299]

I dont want to grind manually and the nieche isnt available to me so I ordered the Varia Vs3 V2 and I dont want the work involved with a flair but I want a good espresso in the morning for myself so I ordered the 9barista simple and beautiful. Its and expensive setup yes but there is no faff involved and I hope it will transform my Mornings from now on to excellence ❤️

[@joshuabubolz7794]

Thanks Kyle for that awesome Video, but what about the Lelit Mara X for the 1800 Dollar Setup and paired with a Mahlkönig X54. Or maybe the Mahlkönig E65 GbW for the expensive Setup. Do you know those mashines or grinders and what do you think about them ?

[@KyleRowsell]

Love the Mara X! I've covered it in a few videos. The Mahlkonig X54 is also a great option. For sake of time I didn't go into every option but this pair is a viable option as well.

[@8rafasimas]

Awesome! Considering the price at current sale, which makes better espresso, flair classic or picopresso? Which one to buy as your first espresso maker/machine?

[@KyleRowsell]

Flair classic would be my choice

[@GuitarsAndSynths]

I am having fun with my cheap Flair manual lever machine and Vietnamese phin filter both super cheap while I get my Rocket Cellini repaired. Looking for an upgrade but do not want to drop 10k on a machine. Looking at Profitec 800 and Bezerra Strega if I go spring lever or ECM Synchronika, Bezerra Duo Matrix and Lelit Bianca if I stay semi auto. Would love to try out a Dalla Corte Mina.

[@erock6040]

I love your video!! I love your love for Niche Zero and I love what you did to your grinder. Do you have any discount coupon for Walnut upgrade? I love everything about the grinder but the wood accent and I want to do the same for mine. I also ordered Lina Mini about 5 weeks ago and I can’t wait to get it!! Hope you said everything about Lina Mini is true!! Thanks

[@KyleRowsell]

Thanks for watching! No discount codes but I have linked where to get it in my niche video.

[@Villaboy78]

Lightly modded Gaggia Classic (OG) + Specialita kicks most of my local cafe's butts for pure espresso, no questions, bit it IS a gamble on temperature between a good shot and perfetto. I'm at the point where the gaggia could be replaced and I'm thinking mara X Vs Rancilio Silvia X pro . Does the Bianca make my decision redundant , ie just save up a bit longer lol

[@robinwong1453]

What about Victoria Arduino E1 Prima? better than LMLM right?

[@brandonrobinson5156]

Setup I am looking at will net me about $2750(CAD) and I think its a winner. For the same price as a Rocket Apartamento, I'll go for the Lelit Mara X with a DF64. I like the compact footprint for my apartment, and it has more control than the Rocket will offer. Basically get a DF64 for free...

[@AmarettoRawr]

I would have added the caveat that the Gaggia Classic Pro does require some mods to really get the bang for the buck. I've been researching machines for about 2 years now; and the main reason I haven't jumped on the Gaggia Classic Pro is because most users say that you need to know how to temperature surf as well as mod the machine. It's a little intimidating for anyone just getting into the hobby.

[@coffeeinsanity9712]

What about the Gaggia with PID and flow control pared with Mazzer major moddded for single dosing? Under $1000 if you buy them used

[@KyleRowsell]

Great thoughts! I didn't include modded or used equipment here. Otherwise a great option!

[@maciejrajewski2937]

So, having very good grinder (manual, gues which one) Gaggia Classic is the best choice for the "ordinary" people?

[@KyleRowsell]

I'd say the GCP with a great grinder is fantastic

[@brtspl]

btw. Doesn’t the Breville Dual Boiler offer more than Linea Mini? besides the looks, longevity and steam power

[@KyleRowsell]

It sure does! And I mentioned that it lacks some of the tech. But the LM makes up for build quality where the breville falls short.

[@louisd95714]

I already spent enough money on my Barista Pro, (Which provides a great shot) and here I am looking at other suggestions.

[@_D_A_V_E_]

Thoughts on new dual boiler Rancillio Silvia Pro x?

[@federicocammelli9558]

Hi Kyle, very awesome video!! I have a Lelit Anna with an Eureka specialità for grinder. I want to update my machine, what do you think about Lelit Elizabeth? I like the machine when I can play with temperature, pre infusion and all the other variables. My dream is Dalla Corte studio, but it’s too expensive🤪 Thank you

[@KyleRowsell]

I have a full video on the Elizabeth! And it’s a great machine.

[@federicocammelli9558]

@@KyleRowsell I saw it, twice😁😁😁😁!! Now it’s clear, Elizabeth will be my own present for Christmas😬😬😬😬 Thank you for the answer😊😊😊😊

[@Waisonian]

Phew. Quite the pairings. I assume the Normcore is good enough for the Picopresso?

[@xmybladex]

Really can't decide on my go to setup... Sage / Breville Oracle Touch or maybe the Dual Boiler with a decent grinder (maybe Sette 270WI). Really like that automatic milk thing, profiles and stuff from the Oracle Touch, but the dual boiler has more options for customizing. Also the integrated grinder and missing configuration for the amount of ground coffee might give me a headache because you might end up buying another grinder. Switched to an Aeropress with hand grinder (1Zpresso Q2) last year or sth after coming from different fully automatic machines and being sick of those hygienic problems that arise after time with all the damp coffee ground getting every in the machines. This really gives me headaches, a lot of pro and cons and €€€ / $$$ 😅

[@towalks]

What about the DeLonghi La Specialista Prestigio instead of the Breville Barista pro?

I would like to give shout to DeLonghi EC 685 (or similar dedica). For 150 eur, its easily upgradable to unpressurized basket. Also, more budget friendly Eureka Mignon Manuale (name is different for Canada, i cant remember how its called), which is just 260eur, compared to 330eur for Silenzio. Literally, only difference is louder sound and no way of dosing, other than "push to grind" button. I have upgraded to Lelit Anna with PID year ago, but drinking mostly milk drinks, im waiting for Bianca to be delivered in next 5-6 days :). Its much cheaper in Europe, you can get it for around 1600-1700 eur.

[@eyewitness4560]

I don't mean to nitpick but where the scales at? Or puck prep gear and tampers? Bottomless portafilters?

[@e.b.4506]

After dialing in a shot on any of these machines, all using the niche zero, is there a night and day difference between shots at the bottom to top, and where does that break occur, if at all?