I had serious doubts about whether it was going to be possible to make really good espresso at home. I have previously owned one of those coffee makers with the integrated espresso function and milk frother and it was useless. I watched the online video where the guy suggested running a one-cup shot with just water to warm everything up before you actually do your espresso. That and the temperature guage did the trick. The machine is easy to run, uncomplicated, and the crema on the espresso is wonderful. We are now having the best espresso martinis and affogato desserts ever. We haven't actually used the milk frother yet, but even if it weren't very good (and based on everything else it is going to be great, I'm sure), we would still be more than delighted that we chose this model. So inexpensive compared to others on the market and yet well built and solid feeling.