Ascaso Dream PID, Programmable Home Espresso Machine w/Volumetric Controls, 120V (Anthracite)

I really like the way this machine looks. And it makes tasty espresso and cappuccino. The machine, however, is poorly made, poorly designed, and is ultimately not durable. To me, that makes it one to avoid.In less than two years and only ~750 shots of espresso, I had a number of worn out gaskets, two broken steam knobs, and a broken steam valve. This is despite regular cleaning. Since I purchased my machine (August 2019) they've redesigned the knob and the steam valve (and likely many other parts as well), but that just seems to indicate that they are testing out designs on consumers and then they don't stand by their product: When I contacted Ascaso about my broken steam valve for instance, they said it had since been redesigned and hopefully the new one, which I had to purchase, would be better. Oh, and they have no way to assist me in replacing the part: "Open it up and good luck!"

This machine takes time to make certain you are familiar with all its functions. End result is very positive.

I purchased this unit directly from Seattle Coffee Gear over the holidays, new to expresso making but missing what i wasn't getting from NYC coffee shops during COVID. After a bit of research I concluded there are a few tiers of machines: dept store junk, capable non-PID machines, PID single boiler, PID dual boiler. Ignoring the junk the decision for me was to choose this machine as it has a PID, w/ allows for precision. Precision seemed important for me since I would be leaning on the fly and didnt want extra variables. This machine, along with a high quality grinder, have been great. I make better flat whites than my local surburban shop and I have learned a lot. The machine has a high quality feel to it and has given me 0 problems.

unreliable. poor error handling. long recovery time. on the trash heap.