Gaggia 102532 Espresso-Pure Semi-Automatic Espresso Machine, Black
We received our first machine, plugged it in, and smoke started coming out of it… After calling Amazon, we were sent a replacement machine at no charge. We have had no issues with the replacement machine and it makes great espresso!!!! I think the issue with the first machine was a fluke…
Rating: 4 / 5

Gaggia 102532 Espresso-Pure Semi-Automatic Espresso Machine, Black
I am pleased with the Espresso Pure for my entry-level espresso maker purchase. I wish it had a warming plate, but as another reviewer said, the body is all plastic. I also purchased the Baratza (or is it Solis? I’m confused about the relationship of those two companies) Maestro Plus grinder for around $140 and they work well together. You do have to spend some time breaking in the machine and experimenting with grind size and tamping pressure. You also have to let the machine heat up well, at least 8 minutes. But after I turn on and let it heat up, it doesn’t take me more than 5 or 6 minutes to make a latte or cappuccino.

I like the size of the water tank because there are only 2 of us. I also like that there is enough clearance for a standard 8 oz mug beneath the portafilter. The steam wand produces great foam with whole milk and there’s enough clearance there for a 2 cup Pyrex measuring cup. Yet the machine does not take up a lot of space – in fact it’s less than the Mr. Coffee machine it replaced.

I think its interesting the Espresso Color got higher reviews than this one, because they are the same machine. The Color is $50 more, but otherwise they are exactly the same. And I read on [...] that the red colored paint starts chipping off after awhile.

For now (1 month after purchase) and for what it is, I think it works great, and at a young, frugal person kind of price.
Rating: 5 / 5

Gaggia 102532 Espresso-Pure Semi-Automatic Espresso Machine, Black
this product is sleek and stylish but very average and a similar lower priced version can be purchased at most department or discount stores.
Rating: 3 / 5

Gaggia 102532 Espresso-Pure Semi-Automatic Espresso Machine, Black
Coffee turns out great (assuming you use the right coffee and water), but the machine is just not that attractive sitting on the counter. It is mostly made of plastic…if you care about how your counter-top looks, then consider looking elsewhere.
Rating: 4 / 5

Gaggia 102532 Espresso-Pure Semi-Automatic Espresso Machine, Black
Makes a great cup of coffee but it’s quirky – you can’t refill it without turning it off as I understand it and we had guests who used it (all experienced coffee drinkers) and it seems to be leaking non-stop unless you turn it off… We placed an order for a different machine and the Whole Latte Love rep sold us this one because the one we chose was out of stock… Seems a bit fragile for the price. We’re in a wait and see mode right now – about to refer back to the manual to troubleshoot the problem… Promise to update later.
Rating: 3 / 5