I'm looking to buy a Espresso machine for my parents, and so far I've figured out that the difference between $50 ones and the $100~$400 ones is that the cheap ones uses steam and the more expensive ones use pump to pass the water through the coffee. However, I have not had any luck finding any difference within the $100~$400 price range which is typical price for the "traditional" espresso machines. How would I make decision on these two products for example? The Saeco is on sale for $220 at Costco so I was just going to get that, but if my parents are not going to get better coffee than the $100 one I figured it's not worth it. If it's worth it to spend more on good one, I'm willing to spend up to $300 so please let me know if you have any recommendations or see any deals.
Thank you in advance.

DeLonghi EC155 Espresso Maker - $99
http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/B00..._pr_product_top

Saeco 30013 Aroma Traditional Espresso Machine - $350
http://www.amazon.com/Saeco-Traditional-Es...=pd_sbs_k_img_2

Never had an expresso and I don't stop at places that serve 'em. However, I would ask questions at shops that offer the drink. I know the majority of restuarants get equipment on loaned from the company that provide coffee and other supplies. Farmer Brothers has a large present around here and a call to an office might be helpful.

Good luck.

the more expensive the machine, the more consistent the shot of espresso. if your parents love making an drinking espresso, the higher priced ones are better. steam powered machines are terrible because they can't produce enough pressure to force the water through the beans. if i ever had the money, i would buy a la pavoni

try these websites for research:

really good espresso website

good source for reviews

http://www.coffeeresearch.org/espresso/machines.htm

Plain ol' coffee is good enough for me, but I've talked a bit with baristas, those who know their beans, and they would agree with Sarinne. Besides, when in doubt, always opt for quality for something that's fairly timeless, like kitchenwares.

Thanks guys, I went with this, $300 on Amazon, $190 on Costco and had decent reviews.

http://www.costco.com/Browse/Product.aspx?Prodid=11091553