We have now had our Breville for over four years - still fantastic as the first weeks of use. The fist year or so we used it strictly for espresso shots to add to our morning drip made coffee or for guest. We soon learned to use it daily, every morning, mostly to make Americano coffee with a double shot then diluted with the hot water feature - sometimes just a beautiful espresso. The system is robust and reliable. The semi automatic functions allow for excellent consistency day-in and day-out. Highly recommended.