Could the Café Affetto Espresso Machine Get You to Ditch Your Nespresso? Here’s How It Compares

• Value: 15/20
• Functionality: 16/20
• Ease of Use: 19/20
• Aesthetics: 19/20
• Brew Quality: 20/20

TOTAL: 89/100

For a decade, my Nespresso machine’s been the gold standard for making shots of espresso and lattes at home. Sure, there are more advanced devices out there, but given its sleek look, compact footprint (because, let’s be real: you can never have enough counter space) and quality shots of espresso straight from capsules, it was hard to beat. But then I laid eyes on the copper-and-matte-black wonder that is the Café Affetto Automatic Espresso machine. It’s capsule-free and has a built-in grinder, so you can enjoy whatever beans your heart desires. Plus, the WiFi-enabled machine syncs with an app, so you can brew a drink to the exact temperature and strength you prefer; no barista skills necessary. But could it really be worth its $730 price tag? Or be easier to use than a Nespresso machine? After two months of regular use, here’s my take.

As for the final brew, both machines produce high-quality shots of espresso with a rich crema. While I sometimes have to reset my Nespresso when a capsule gets jammed, I don’t run into that problem with Affetto—though the brand does warn you to avoid dark roast coffee beans, which can be greasier and cause clogs.

There’s also the matter of price: A basic Nespresso machine with frother will set you back about $230 to $300, depending on the model. The Affetto is more than three times that, at $730. It’s easier to make a wide range of drinks with the Affetto, and you’ll have more control over what you make (since you choose the beans, the texture of the milk foam and so on). You’re also getting a built-in bean hopper and conical burr grinder, which helps justify that price tag.

If you want a chic espresso machine that gives you total control over your brew (minus any mess or work on your end), the Affetto is a solid choice. Especially if you—and whoever visits you—enjoys lattes, cappuccinos and other specialty drinks.

The PureWow100 is a scale our editors use to vet new products and services, so you know what’s worth the spend—and what’s total hype. Learn more about our process here.