The Anza R2 espresso machine swaps traditional chrome for a brutalist concrete shell, but does its performance match its museum-quality exterior? While the machine delivers a silent, reliable shot, its internal components tell the story of a much cheaper device wrapped in high-priced art.
La Marzocco's Linea Micra promises to bring commercial-grade espresso to small kitchens, but its $3,900 price tag raises a difficult question for enthusiasts. While the machine's 5-minute heat-up time and innovative internal engineering set a new bar for convenience, the lack of manual flow control might leave some hobbyists wanting more for their money.
Most cheap espresso machines fail to deliver real microfoam, but the $299 Breville Bambino might be the exception. While it makes specific compromises in material quality, its three-second startup and professional-grade steam wand challenge the need for a thousand-dollar setup.
