We get asked this question all of the time and it's why it's great to have a chat before you purchase your kit.
The thing about real espresso equipment over department store appliances is that you can pretty much guarantee that the coffee will be way, way superior. Another bonus is that if you care for your gear, it is not going to ultimately end up in landfill. You can guarantee that the appliances will end their life in a hard-rubbish collection.
I Have $1k to Spend
With this budget, we'd be suggesting that you hold off on the machine and just purchase a good grinder. You will need $500 or more to do that.
The grinder is not an item you want to economise on - if you load your machine with poorly ground coffee, you can guarantee a poor cup. We are yet to see an appliance grinder capable of delivering high quality espresso. Our advice: Spend the money! A great grinder will allow for excellent filter coffee and coffee via other methods while you save for your espresso machine.
I Have $2k to Spend
With $2k, you have opened the door to a small entry-level machine which will produce excellent coffee in the right hands. Examples such as the Profitec Go will do the job well for an individual or couple. A gathering over 4 people will push this type of machine.
The other aspect is that these machines can't think for themselves - they have no timer and are not designed for the forgetful. Leave it on all day and you'll have a burnt element.
I Have $3–4k to Spend
This is the sweet spot for a serious home setup. At this level, you're entering the world of heat exchanger machines (like the ECM Mechanika range) or compact dual boilers (like the Profitec Pro 300). These machines are designed for daily use, have excellent service lives and will deliver consistently great espresso.
Budget for a quality grinder (at least $500–700) as part of this allocation. Machine + grinder is always the right way to think about a coffee setup.
I Have $5k+
Welcome to the serious prosumer category. At this level, dual boiler machines with full PID control, rotary pumps and decades of potential service life are available. The ECM Synchronika II, Rocket Espresso R58 and La Marzocco Linea Mini all live here.
These machines are investments. Buy one well, maintain it properly, and it will be with you for 15–20 years.
A Note on Second-Hand Equipment
The prosumer espresso market has excellent second-hand options. However, don't buy a second-hand machine you can't have serviced and checked first. A machine with a compromised boiler, worn pump or failing seals is an expensive problem. We inspect and service second-hand machines - call us before you buy.