X54

You might want to say what kind of coffee you like! If you like darker stuff, a Eureka mignon may be sufficient. If you like lighter stuff, Mahlkonig X54 All round may be a good choice.

I started with a sunbeam machine and grinder that I used for over 5 years, until it started having problems and it eventually felt like I outgrew it and wanted something more consistent with a bit more steam power etc. If I was starting from zero I think I would get a breville bambino something rela

At that price point I’m going with an X54 instead. Super consistent and versatile. Easy to clean and service. And since it’s from Mahlkonig parts are much easier to get if you need them.

My advice, invest more on your grinder rather than the espresso machine. I got a Mahlkonig x54 grinder and a Gemilai 3145b dual PID espresso machine. The x54 is a good choice if you'd be jumping around using different beans and different brewing methods. Though the Eureka Mignon Specialita would be

There's a few grinders at that price point that could be good for you. Compak K3 Push Grinder OD I've previously had this grinder and it was pretty damn good for the money and bench space. It's not the best single-doser, in that it has some retention, but it's far from the worst I've had. Compak are