I am an espresso/cappuccino lover. After years of using a machine with capsules I decided it was time to stop producing so much garbage with the capsules. This Kitchen Aid Semi Automatic Espresso machine is absolutely great. It feels and looks very professional. The most important fact however is, that the espresso tastes excellent, is hot and has a thick crema on top. This machine delivers on these facts. It is pretty easy to use- I do however recommend reading the instructions. I definitely would recommend this machine to my friends and family. It will be far less expensive by using espresso powder instead of capsules- Looking forward to that along with an excellent espresso.