We found the espresso it made to be remarkably full flavored and complex-better than that from any other machine we tested-with little variation in quality across multiple test rounds unless we deliberately changed our settings.

If you’re somewhat knowledgeable about espresso and want an accessible machine that can hold up through lots of practice, the Dream PID offers the right mix of easy programmability and hands-on experience. The Ascaso Dream PID is an elegant, very compact machine that can produce professional-level espresso drinks on a consistent basis. The Barista Touch is just as consistent as the smaller Breville Bambino Plus, and it’s also a little more powerful, pulling balanced shots and frothing milk with ease. But those with more experience aren’t likely to get bored you can opt for more or less control over each step in your drink-making process. Even a guest could probably walk up and make themselves a drink on this machine without too much trouble. The Touch is a great choice if you want a machine that allows you to dive right in and start making decent drinks without having to pull up a host of how-to videos online.

It has a quality built-in grinder, as well as an adjustable auto-froth setting for milk that lets you control the amount of foam created. But it also includes advanced controls and allows for manual operation, for more-experienced users and people who want to get creative.

The Breville Barista Touch offers lots of guidance in the form of a touchscreen control center with step-by-step tutorials and multiple programs, so it’s great for beginners.

The wirecutter coffee