Review on ☕️ De'Longhi ECP3220W White 15 Bar Espresso Machine with Advanced Cappuccino System by Tracy Anderson

I got my first one Getting espresso I've been hooked on a barista job for a few months now and even though it's been a few years I still have the addiction. But I also retained what I had learned, so this year I decided to bite the bullet and get my own car - if only so I wouldn't have to spend $5 at a coffee shop every morning. I received it and it works. Damn good actually, despite some reviews I've read. There are many things that go into making a great cup of espresso, and this little machine is just one of them (although it's pretty good for what it is, I can't believe I got it for less than $100 bought.) Here are a few other notes on the process: 1) The coffee itself. It should be finely ground (but not too fine), and it's best to buy a separate grinder to get the right consistency . 2) ramming. This is really important because if you don't really put it down, you won't get a good shot. Forget the plastic thing that comes with the kit and get a good solid 51mm diameter metal rammer. Ideally you want about 1/8 inch from the bagged coffee to the rim of the filter. 3) Drawing the shot. If you haven't even bothered to put the filter in, then you don't have enough coffee. In the beginning it is perfectly normal that the espresso does not come out, just be patient. 4) Steam cooking. The steamer looks flimsy at first glance, but it actually works wonderfully! Again, make sure you know what you're doing - hold your steamer cup at an angle, have a clip-on thermometer handy and make sure you know what temperature you need for the milk you're using. Also, be sure to rinse the milk off afterwards (and let the steamer blow out the excess for a few seconds). I ended up giving 4 stars because: - it's a bit small and light for what I had to do with my other hand to hold the machine while putting the filter on so it doesn't tip over!) - you have to rotate switch off the recordings manually, otherwise it will continue to work. I learned this the hard way (luckily only with water since I cleaned it first). I'd like to see how this works in the long run before making any more changes. But here! If you're like me and already know how to make a decent latte, I'd give it a try (no pun intended).