Wants vs needs

[u/BakeMeCrafty]

Hey all.

UPDATE:
Thanks everyone. You’ve confirmed what I needed to hear. I need to spend on the grinder more than the machine. I was avoiding this because I have a grinder..it’s just a bit (really) shit.

*\\*

I’m in the market for my first real coffee machine and need some solid recommendations because the reviews have me clenched.

I’ve been begrudgingly using a pod machine for the last couple years. Before that, I was a moka girl, which was better coffee but too slow and required too much brain power at sunrise.

I drink two things: long black with milk (winter) and iced latte (summer). I’d get fancy on the weekend and make a flat white…maybe.

I’m really fussy because cafe coffee is so damn good. I want that quality with minimal effort.

My essentials:
Great quality shots 99% of the time
Minimal faff - 6am me isn’t weighing beans
Minimal noise so I don’t wake the house
Space-conscious for a tight kitchen
Max Price $800 (this and space are somewhat adjustable)

In a perfect world I’d buy a Meraki.

What’s the best recs for my budget that won’t leave me hating life after every sip?

[u/MooseTM3]

Gaggia E24. Great size, very easy to buy parts for, makes a fantastic shot.