is the breville barista express a good beginner machine

Yes, the Breville Barista Express (~$699) is a good beginner machine. It's user-friendly, has a built-in temperature control, and produces high-quality espresso. However, it does require more effort than other machines due to its automatic grinders and steam wand. To get the best out of it, invest in a separate grinder and practice your tamping technique. Pair it with a Casabrews 5418 Pro (~$199) or Baratza Encore ESP (~$200) grinder for optimal results. - Be prepared to spend some time adjusting the machine and grinder settings. - Expect to make around 100 shots before getting consistent results.