I have been using this espresso maker for about a week and so far I am very pleased with its performance. I have been visiting the local espresso shops for the past couple years without a espresso budget in mind, i was just buying when I felt the urge. I didn't realize how much I was spending on espressos weekly. The machine has a beautiful stainless steel design looks much better in person. It pours out the espresso perfectly based on reviews and videos I have used to compare with other high end machines. The taste is consistent not watery or strong. I matched it up with the Breville smart grinder and that too does excellent work. The milk steamer is powerful and heats up the milk quickly. I usually put my milk in the metal milk container and stick it in the freezer for about 5-10 min prior to making the espresso this helps with the frothing. Very easy to clean. I will get back in time with an update after a few months of use. So far I saved $40 on espresso this includes making a few cups for co-workers. So far 5 stars and I recommend.10/16/13 updateOK I had an issue with espresso machine the other day. Here is what happened; I thought I blew a gasket or something. I was so irritated. I switch to a new bean Ethiopia from Starbucks and used the same grind as the previous bean. I ran the espresso machine and the coffee was coming in slow drips. I thought for a moment and decided to clean the portafilter. I ground some the same coffee and ran the espresso again. I hear a pop and water and coffee was squirting around the area. I stopped the machine and thought about the reviews I read about leaky espresso machines and blown gaskets and I thougt...That was mine and I will need to send this back or get a new gasket. I also read reviews about coffee being too fine and clogging the portafilter. So I tried it again. I gave the smart grinder a couple of clicks to the left and ran the espresso again and man the coffee came out fine. I was so relieved and glad that I took the time to read and learn about espresso makers before I purchased one.That experience has taught me a lot about espressos makers, grinders and beans. It has become apparent to me that some beans can grind finer than other brands of beans and some espresso machines cannot handle too fine of a grind. The bean well I think its because how they are grown, the locations and elevations.I see why some may have issues with espresso machines. I would say take the time to read or view some youtube videos on espresso machines. They are very insightful.UPDATE 2/08/14 my espresso machine is doing great and it's been five months.It still puts out great creama and has been doing great on a variety of beans as if it has gotten better every time i use it. No clogging and it is still performing well. At this price, which is cheaper than what i bought st, I highly recommend this product. you will not be disappointed.The machine is doing great and my coffee still taste great. Still a five star.UPDATE 10/2/15It's been a 3.5 years since I purchased the Breville espresso maker. I stopped using the steam wand over a year ago because it added water to the milk, but this was a blessing because I purchased the Breville milk cafe frother and I am so glad I did. The frother does an excellent job frothing. No more holding the container under the steam wand waiting for the steam to do it's job. I now just have to press a button on the frother and it's in it's own but not only that, I can add ingredients to the frother while it's frothing and also add the espresso shot for a perfect stir. So now I can froth and pull my espresso shots without having to wait for one to be done before the other. No matter what espresso machine you have of this type you may want to look into an external frother so it'll save you time. The Breville milk cafe is highly rated.UPDATE 06/12/16Ok I am blessed and happy to say that the expresso machine has been doing great in my opinion. It still perfoms and pulls shots like new. Has had no issues what so ever. This machine is great for the money. Breville makes some great products. I still make espressos for co-workers and they love it always ask when I will bring in espressos. I maintain it like recommended.Last comment 11/2021This cafe roma is about 8 years old and still running like a champ. I may purchase another for my cabin up north.