This is my second semi-automatic espresso machine. I own and love several Breville kitchen electronics already and their design is top-notch. I am so glad I saved up and went for this style. It is the perfect size for small kitchens with limited counter space, but packs a punch when it comes to features. The cleaning and descaling process seems very easy and faster than I anticipated. If you hate tamping, get the Oracle instead (if you have the counter space). I happen to like doing my own tamping, feeling like it's your own work to get the perfect pull... otherwise this almost feels like a hybrid between semi and super-automatic.