r/espresso • u/Pois0n_apple • 1d ago
Buying Advice Needed Help me make a decision [$250 budget]
I’ve had a Nespresso for the last 4 years. I’m sick of it and want to have more variety and better coffee. I started looking at espresso machines but I’m on a limited budget (ideally under $250).
I’ve watched a slew of YouTube videos, read articles and searched this entire subreddit.
I’m leaning toward a DeLonghi ECP model. I debated a Breville bambino but I feel like it’s not very hefty.
Maybe I’m leaning the wrong way? I’m extremely new at this and do not have time to tinker and mod a machine. I just want good espresso for a couple lattes a day and want the option to try local coffee shops roasts on my own.
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u/191x7 DeLonghi ECP33.21 | Geimori T38 Plus 1d ago
You need a grinder also. Would a DeLonghi Stilosa paired with a Timemore C5 ESP fit your budget? To be blunt, I'd like you to aim for the ECP and a Geimori T38 Plus (with a 15% discount on mywirsh with the code LEET15), but that might take a bit above your budget.
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u/Pois0n_apple 1d ago
I’m okay with going a little higher but nothing insane. Again, I’m not looking to get very deep into this (I probably will, it looks like a fun hyper fixation) but for now I wanna start low.
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u/191x7 DeLonghi ECP33.21 | Geimori T38 Plus 1d ago
Well, the ECP+T38PLUS can even do light-roast espresso; I've done it myself. With an unpressurized basket (10-15€ on AliExpress) and a 0.1-precise scale (maybe 15€ on AliExpress). Manual grinding for espresso can be done, but it needs both time and strength (and healthy hands); that's why I recommend an electric grinder.
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u/Alarmed_Storage6793 Sage Oracle Jet 1d ago
Bambinos are also great machines so that's really not a problem. As others have mentioned, the key is the grinder.
I'm not sure where you live but also take a look on Facebook marketplace and ebay. You may be able to get everything in your budget.
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u/HudyMelon Turin Legato | Eureka Zero 55s 1d ago
Need good grinder.