This automatic coffee machine not only makes great coffee but it's a statement piece in the kitchen. I'm not an avid coffee drinker by any means. I maybe have a cup every few days, which means if I buy pre-ground coffee it usually doesn't last long enough to actually use all of it. Having whole beans makes this machine very convenient. There are also a lot more options for purchasing whole beans than pre-ground. It's easy to setup and is truly fully automated. I will say that if you drink coffee a lot then you will have to refill the water container often as well as empty out the disposal water/grounds. It's easy to do but they are fairly small containers. There are warning lights on the front that tell you when it's time to do that, though, which is really nice. It comes with a really cool looking metal coffee pot/carafe and can go from filling that whole thing down to making an espresso-style coffee.