Espresso Machines - STARBUCKS Coffee Maker - Zia, Athena, Barista
Starbucks Estro Barista Zia model retail price $275 - another good beginner model; a bit overpriced, but works well and makes good solid espresso shots; some issues with structure have been mentioned in other reviews, but none found with this particular one
Starbucks Barista Athena™ Espresso Machine model retail price $299 - a superb machine; well worth the money spent; overuse will cause the engine to break down, recommended for casual use only; steam wand works well
Starbucks Barista® Espresso Machine model retail price $350 - another Starbucks winner; consistent performance and solid design
Starbucks Espresso Machine Italia model retail price $895 - the best of home use espresso machines; a little tricky to figure out, but once the timing is mastered, it creates perfect espresso every time
Starbucks Espresso Machine Italia Digital model retail price $995 - what problems were had with its non-digital function are corrected in this model; perfect espresso; the machine seems to make the drinks quickly and effortlessly; would spend the money again

MR COFFEE espresso machines:
All models, retail price varies
For moderately priced espresso machines, these do not report the design flaws that others in its price range have; good for the beginning student of coffee construction; steam wand is not overly powerful, but slow and steady makes the right foam
And just for fun.

November 4th, 2007 at 7:03 pm
This is really a question, not a comment. I purchased the Barista One Cup Coffee Maker and it worked fine for the first month but now it leaks when brewing. A good portion of the coffee is flowing down around the coffee cup instead of into it and it goes all over the counter. What can I do about this, other than returning it for a full refund?
December 23rd, 2007 at 3:48 pm
I am having similar problems with mine after about a year. I’ve cleaned it and inspected it and have not found anything obviously wrong but it keeps leaking on the outside?