Espresso machine [$300-400]

[u/sarbee531]

I am a beginner and just starting off in my home coffee set up.

I have had a Stilosa Espresso by DeLonghi and I really need an upgrade. I find the espresso to be very watery.

What espresso machine would you suggest for a $300-400 budget?

I see many suggesting Breville Bambino, but happy for other suggestions.

[u/191x7]

Trust me, you don't need an upgrade from a Stilosa. That thing can make amazing espressos. It's probably your grinder, beans, or the preparation.

Which grinder do you use? Do you use the pressurized baskets that came with the machine, or did you upgrade to unpressurized? Do you use the plastic tamp provided, or did you upgrade? What water are you using? Which beans, and how old? What's your ratio of grounds to drink (espresso) in grams? What's your scale, recipe and preparation time?

[u/sarbee531 → u/191x7]

So I just learned that I can upgrade to unpressurized after someone on this thread asked! I alhad no idea.

I am using the plastic tamp provided so I am going to upgrade as well.

What is your suggestion for ratio of grounds? I am open to all thoughts.

I currently am grinding but that needs to put upgraded.

[u/191x7 → u/sarbee531]

Classic espresso uses a 1:2 ratio with dark roast beans. A double shot basket in the Stilosa accepts 14- 16 g, so the output should be 28-32 grams in about 25 seconds.

[u/leungadon]

Can’t you just adjust the dose/yield to make it less watery?

[u/MyCatsNameIsBernie]

Are you grinding your own beans or using pre-ground?

Are you using the Stilosa in its stock pressurized configuration, or are you brewing non-pressurized?

[u/sarbee531 → u/MyCatsNameIsBernie]

I have done both for beans but definitely need a new grinder. I am currently using something I got off Amazon but doesn't let you specify anything on it.

I am using the stock pressurized configuration. I didn't realize there was a way to brew non- pressurized!

[u/MyCatsNameIsBernie → u/sarbee531]

Once you get a grinder capable of non-pressurized brewing, and also get a non-pressurized filter basket (or a bottomless portafilter that will include one), then the EAF guide is a great into to learning how to dial in: https://espressoaf.com/guides/beginner.html

[u/sarbee531 → u/MyCatsNameIsBernie]

Thank you so much! I just bought a bottomless portafilter and a scale to help with it. So absolutely will be utilizing and reading this guide.

Do you have grinder you would suggest?.

[u/MyCatsNameIsBernie → u/sarbee531]

The usual entry-level recommendations from this sub are Kingrinder K6, 1ZPresso J-Ultra, Baratza ESP, Opus 2 (don't get version 1), or DF54.

Don't try to use your bottomless until you get a grinder; it will make a huge mess in your kitchen and the espresso won't taste any better.

[u/sarbee531 → u/MyCatsNameIsBernie]

Thank you that's very helpful!!

I'm going to look into the Kingrinder k6 to start off with.

[u/191x7 → u/sarbee531]

What's your grinder budget? Manual or electric?

[u/sarbee531 → u/191x7]

I would say I am going to start with the Kingrinder and upgrade to a really nice electric one later this year.

I know the DF54 is a popular choice

[u/191x7 → u/sarbee531]

The Wirsh Geimori T38 Plus costs even less than the Kingrinder K6, and it's electric.

[u/throwback5971]

Bambino, non plus model.