re: Coffee Thread

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Does anybody have experience with one of these? I’m a complete novice when it comes to espresso machines. I’ve been looking for months at the various options in my price range (<$1000 for machine + grinder) but I get so overwhelmed by the pros and cons of each I just give up and walk to the coffee shop. Based on my research, at my price range the grinder is more important than the machine so I’m wondering if these machines with a grinder built-in are worth it.

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My advice is that if you want to have a quality grinder and really good espresso both for under $1,000 total, get a Flair espresso maker and a good quality mid-priced single dose grinder, like a Turin DF 64. It will take a little practice but the top end potential of the Flair espresso makers is perfect espresso, without the high price.

In my experience, having started with a Flair Pro 2, I can assure you that the Flair will give you a superior cup of coffee for a very reasonable price, although you will have to actually learn what you are doing. They sell refurbished units on their website if you want to save a few more dollars.

If your budget is under $1,000, and you aren't making coffee for 3 or 4 people each day, that's what I would recommend.