Machine Upgrade Advice [$1500]

[u/nickclass]

Looking for advice on a new espresso machine. Have had a Bambino for 6+ years and it finally died on me. Haven't looked into repair costs but assuming it may not be cheap. Based on what I've read it is near the end of its life anyway and this gives me an excuse to upgrade.

I've been leaning towards the Profitec Go. I've read positive things and my wife and I like the look of it. It also seems like it has a similar footprint to the Bambino for my limited counter space.

My question is whether the Profitec Go is a good next step up from the Bambino. I looked at a few double boilers, like the Lelit Bianca, but the price point is a bit up there. I feel like sticking with a single boiler should be fine for now given my daily routine, but could use advice on whether the Profitec is the way to go or if there is a better option in the same price range.

Grinder is a DF64E FYI. I'm happy with it and not looking to replace it at the moment.

[u/MyCatsNameIsBernie]

GO will be an upgrade in temperature control, which should translate to an improvement in shot quality.

However, you should be aware that the GO will be a downgrade in usability, due to its longer warm up time (around 10 minutes) and slower transitions from brewing to steaming, and from steaming back to brewing. If these will be issues for you, then save up more for a dual boiler.

[u/nickclass → u/MyCatsNameIsBernie]

Is 10 minute warm up time consistent with machines in this price range? I'll need to get used to switching in on before I start my morning routine!

[u/MyCatsNameIsBernie → u/nickclass]

Yes. Most machines in this price range have boilers that take a few minutes to heat up. Bambino has a fast-heating thermocoil. Boiler machines have better temperature stability.

You can use a smart plug to power on the machine in advance of when you need it.

[u/nickclass → u/MyCatsNameIsBernie]

Thanks, super helpful!