All-in-all, a bad experience. I am ready for the 'RIGHT MACHINE" at a very right price, (ie approx.<>$200).
Positive Product Points
Ease of use. Ease of cleaning was appreciated!! Didn't take up allot of room on counter.
Negative Product Points
Never steamed well. Always left the milk more "diluted" than "steamed". The heating unit has failed much ealier than I would have thought, in light of the price and the short term of use, and only being used by one person.
Detailed Commentary
I am frustrated with my unit's heating element failing. Couple that with not being able to find a techie to fix the thing!
This espresso maker requires real and frequent cleaning if you have heavy minerals in your water, as I do, because the coffee maker can cease to espress if minerals build up.
I was never satisfied with the steamer unit, as it didn't heat the milk hot enough, and only seemed to delute the milk.
I had researched well, before purchasing my espresso maker and had hoped that this was "THE ONE" for my first real serious home unit.
But even though I experienced negative aspects to this machine, I eventually conformed my methods to produce a good coffee and grew to enjoy the machine. I didnt use the frother and actually produced Americanos.
Buying Experience
I did not return the machine to Amazon, as I should have, as the actual delivery, itself was a nightmare! I experienced three delays and backorders, and wondered if I would ever receive the machine.
