Ascaso Steel DUO PID, Programmable Espresso Machine w/ Volumetric Controls, Dual Thermoblock, 120V (White)

I took a lot of time and consideration in purchasing my first Espresso machine. Ascaso won for two important reasons. First - the way it looks. Most machines have the appearance they fell off a rocket ship. This was polished... refined. Second - the features. Most PID, dual boiler (thermacoil in this case) machines were priced well into the $2000's. This was priced below. Some technical learning curves aside, the machine has performed better than expected. It's held up to 3 shots a day at a minimum with no issues. I will say (as Im sure its true with most espresso machines) make sure you're looking at a quality grinder. The Vario was not a great partner.

I'm not generally a review person because nothing really lasts anymore. Most things are overpriced or have a short life span or both. After a lot of research and my fingers crosses - I purchased this machine from SCG in November of 2021. Having used everything in the comparable price bracket over the last few years, and using this machine virtually every day since I bought it, I can say with confidence that you will not regret your purchase. Easy to clean. Easy to adjust. Sits right in the middle ground of minimalist but tasteful design. Not an ostentatious chrome plated machine or something that looks like it's from the 90s. Form factor is important since it's something you cant just put away every time you're not using it. No it doesn't have instant cafe-pressure steam. Yes the pressure diverter sounds kinda silly if it's struggling to push water through the espresso. But the minimal footprint this machine has, along with the more than adequate steam pressure, the ability to pull a shot and steam simultaneously within minutes of the machine being turned on, the great form factor and design (water tank on the side so you can tuck it under cabinets and not have to pull the machine forward every time you fill up), easy upkeep and cleaning processes, and flawless performance and reliability that I have experienced with this machine over the last 2 years, I feel it would be a disservice to not recommend this machine to anyone in the home espresso machine market. You will not be disappointed.