Originally Posted by
Dieseld
In some ways yes. The Breville is a simple machine to use and to pull more than 3-4 shots off of. Like if the wife and I each want a cappuccino, simple and ready. With the lever, the group head would get too hot even with my best efforts to keep it cooler. Also, the steam feature on my lever is very limited, so another plus for the Breville there. Double boilers and a much larger water compacity.
So for my individual morning Espresso, the lever is great!
But for the convenience of more than one shot and a much better steam output, the Breville wins.
And as of right now, I would highly suggest the Breville to someone looking for a great machine, a prosumer (professional/consumer) quality line and what I consider a very good price point for the options on it.