Best espresso machine for under $200

[hulong]

I know, I know - it's a stretch, but it's for the office where it will surely be destroyed and/or under-appreciated.

So, if nothing decent under $200, how about under $300?

Thanks

 

[shadow745]

Well what about a grinder? A machine will do no good without a grinder unless you plan to use pods or capsules...... A good semi-auto like the lower end Gaggias can be had for the $$$ range you speak of, but you'd still need a grinder and a few accessories to really make it work for you.

In the office environment most people think coffee is coffee and probably could care less whether it's spro or drip. That is unless it's for you and then everybody else might use it, in which case I'd tell them to pitch in to help cover costs. Later!

 

[caffe biscotto]

I wonder if Saeco is any good. There are a few on Ebay, listed as Buy Now that are under $200. Otherwise, the Rancilio and DeLonghi brands could be had for just over $400 or so.

Shadow745, I agree...
I have yet to work in an office that has an espresso machine in the break room. :?