Coffee snobbery: Is an espresso machine really worth $2000?

2026-02-17 07:30:00 (0)

By Caffeine_Addict

I’ve been using a Hario V60 for years. It’s cheap, reliable, and makes great coffee. But lately, I’ve been eyeing those dual-boiler espresso machines (looking at you, Lelit Bianca).

Is the jump from pour-over to high-end espresso really that big? Or am I just going to spend 20 minutes every morning cleaning a machine for a shot of liquid that I’m going to drink in 5 seconds? Give me the brutal truth.

Espresso_Elite 2026-02-17 08:05:00 (0)

@Caffeine_Addict It's not about the machine, it's about the grinder. If you buy a $2000 machine and a $100 grinder, you're wasting your money. You need a Niche Zero or a Mazzer at the very least.

But yes, a perfectly dialed-in shot of espresso is a religious experience. Nothing like the sour water you get from a V60. 😉

AeroPress_Fan 2026-02-17 08:22:00 (0)

Just get an AeroPress. $40, indestructible, and you can take it camping. Spend the remaining $1960 on anything else. Your taste buds won't know the difference after the first sip anyway.