The Smeg Espresso Coffee Machine EGF03 costs $899.95 / 849.95 / AU$1,299.00.

My biggest (and only) criticism?

Thats no bad thing, although it doesnt soften the blow of the price too much.

The top of the Smeg Espresso Coffee Machine EGF03, housing the bean hopper and tamp

(Image credit: Future)

Just below this console is where the magic happens.

Theres a raised circle that snugly houses the tamp, too, which is always a thoughtful inclusion.

Lets start from the top grinding your beans.

Close-up of the Smeg Espresso Coffee Machine EGF03 console

Next up, its time to brew your espresso.

Lastly, lets talk about the steam wand.

Should I buy the Smeg Espresso Coffee Machine EGF03?

The Smeg Espresso Coffee Machine EGF03 with the portafilter in-situ

For its price and small footprint, this espresso maker is excellent.

I used both its pressurized and unpressurized filters, and tried grinding the beans to different coarseness levels.

Im a huge coffee nerd (and my partner is an even bigger one!)

Smeg Espresso Coffee Machine EGF03 portafilter filled with coffee grounds

(Image credit: Future)

so Im pretty comfortable judging flavor profiles and technical aspects of coffee machines.

Read we test

Smeg Espresso Coffee Machine EGF03  bean hopper

(Image credit: Future)

Smeg Espresso Coffee Machine EGF03

(Image credit: Future)

Smeg Espresso Coffee Machine EGF03 making an espresso shot

Smeg Espresso Coffee Machine EGF03 grinding coffee beans

Frothy milk being poured into espresso made by the Smeg Espresso Coffee Machine EGF03

Smeg Espresso Coffee Machine EGF03 placed on a kitchen counter

Breville the Barista Express Impress

DeLonghi Dedica Style EC685