Searching for a super automatic espresso machine? The best models deliver barista-quality drinks with minimal effort, but they vary widely in features, price, and ease of use. The Philips 5500 Series stands out as the top overall pick for its combination of performance and user-friendly design. For those prioritizing quiet operation, the Philips 3300 Series is an excellent choice, while the De’Longhi Magnifica Evo appeals to buyers seeking versatility and modern tech. However, these machines come with tradeoffs such as higher price points or larger footprints. Keep reading for a full breakdown to help you find the best fit for your coffee needs.
Key Takeaways
- Top picks balance ease of use with advanced features like integrated grinders and milk systems.
- Price typically correlates with quality, but some budget models offer surprising performance for their cost.
- Quiet operation and maintenance ease are key factors often overlooked but crucial for daily use.
- Design and size vary; consider your kitchen space when choosing a machine.
- Versatility in drink options is common in premium models, but simpler machines excel at basic espresso and cappuccino.
More Details on Our Top Picks
CASABREWS Ultra Espresso Machine with LCD Display and Milk Frother
This model stands out for its professional 20-bar pressure system, delivering rich espresso comparable to commercial machines. The LCD display simplifies operation, providing guidance through complex brewing parameters. Its powerful milk frother creates microfoam perfect for cappuccinos and lattes, making it ideal for those who value barista-quality drinks at home. Compared with the Philips 3300 Series, this machine offers more control over temperature and pressure, but that comes with increased complexity, especially for beginners. The main tradeoff is that it demands more attention to grind size, tamping, and machine settings, which could be a hurdle for casual users. Overall, this pick makes the most sense for coffee enthusiasts who want customizable, high-quality espresso and don’t mind a steeper learning curve.Pros:- Professional 20-bar pressure system for rich, flavorful espresso
- LCD display for clear guidance and easy adjustments
- Powerful milk steam wand for barista-quality microfoam
- Removable water tank simplifies refilling and cleaning
Cons:- Requires knowledge of grind size and tamping for best results
- Limited adjustment options—temperature only adjustable for espresso
- Potentially complex setup for those unfamiliar with espresso machines
Best for: Home baristas who prioritize control over brewing parameters and enjoy experimenting with espresso craft.
Not ideal for: Beginners or users seeking quick, push-button operation without much fuss, as it requires familiarity with espresso techniques.
- Pressure:20-bar
- Power:1350W
- Water Tank Capacity:73 oz
- Display:LCD
- Frother:Milk steam wand
- Material:Brushed stainless steel
- Adjustable Temperature Settings:4
Bottom line: Best suited for experienced coffee lovers seeking detailed control and high-quality espresso at home.
Philips 3300 Series Fully Automatic Espresso Machine with LatteGo Milk System and Integrated Grinder, 6 Hot & Iced Coffee Presets, 40% Quieter, 15-Bar Pressure, Glossy Black
This machine excels at offering a wide selection of beverages with minimal effort, making it a top choice for users who want variety at the push of a button. Its six preset drinks, including iced options, cater to different preferences, while the LatteGo milk system provides quick, mess-free frothing. Compared to the Philips 3200 Series, it offers more presets and quieter operation, but its higher price reflects these added features. The built-in grinder and full-color display enhance user experience, but the machine may be less suited for those who prefer customizing every parameter or who have limited counter space. The main tradeoff is its cost, which might be prohibitive for budget-conscious buyers. This pick is ideal for busy households that value quick, consistent drinks without fuss.Pros:- Six preset beverages including iced options
- LatteGo milk system for fast, clean frothing
- Quiet brewing process reduces noise disturbance
- Maintenance-free with AquaClean filter
Cons:- Higher price point compared to simpler models
- Limited color options
- Less customizable brewing parameters
Best for: Families or busy professionals who want a variety of coffee drinks without manual effort or extensive customization.
Not ideal for: Coffee aficionados seeking detailed control over brewing variables or those with small kitchens, due to its size and price.
- Presets:6
- Milk System:LatteGo
- Coffee Types:Espresso, Coffee, Iced Coffee, Cappuccino, Latte Macchiato, Hot Water
- Brewing Pressure:15 Bar
- Noise Level:40% Quieter
- Display:Full color
Bottom line: Ideal for households that prioritize ease and variety over detailed control and customization.
Philips 5500 Series Fully Automatic Espresso Machine with LatteGo Milk System
This model makes a strong impression with its 20 preset drinks and customizable profiles, appealing to users who like to tailor their coffee experience. Its fast, quiet brewing technology and dishwasher-safe milk system components add to convenience, especially compared to manual or semi-automatic options like the CASABREWS. However, its high price and limited detailed dimensions could be drawbacks for budget-conscious buyers or those with limited space. The machine’s automatic grinding, tamping, and brewing make it a solid choice for those who prefer set-and-forget operation, but regular maintenance like descaling remains necessary. Overall, this pick fits well for users seeking a versatile, fully automatic machine that handles most of the work, with minimal fuss.Pros:- 20 preset drinks with customization options
- Fast, quiet brewing technology
- Easy-to-clean LatteGo milk system
- User-friendly full-color display with profile saving
Cons:- Price may be high for some budgets
- Limited detailed dimensions provided
- Requires regular descaling and maintenance
Best for: Coffee enthusiasts wanting a broad selection of drinks with minimal manual intervention and customizable profiles.
Not ideal for: Budget buyers or those in small kitchens, due to higher price and size considerations.
- Model:EP5544/94
- Pressure:15 Bar
- Color:Black Chrome
- Pre-Sets:20
- Milk System:LatteGo
- Brewing Technology:Automatic grinding, tamping, and brewing
- QuickStart:Yes
- SilentBrew:Yes
Bottom line: Best suited for users who want variety, convenience, and customization in a fully automatic system.
Philips 3200 Series Fully Automatic Espresso Machine with LatteGo Milk Frother, 5 Coffee Varieties, Touch Display, Ceramic Grinder, AquaClean Filter, Black
This machine strikes a balance between ease of use and high-quality brewing, making it ideal for everyday coffee drinkers who want good results without complexity. The intuitive touch display simplifies selection, while the built-in ceramic grinder ensures consistent bean freshness. Compared to the more feature-rich Philips 5500, it offers fewer preset options but remains highly capable for most users. Its AquaClean filter reduces maintenance, and the removable brew group makes cleaning straightforward. The main tradeoff is that it lacks some of the customization options found in higher-end models, and its color options are limited. This machine is perfect for those who value convenience and reliable performance in a compact footprint.Pros:- Easy-to-use touch display for quick selection
- Built-in ceramic grinder for fresh flavor
- Removable brew group for easy cleaning
- AquaClean filter for up to 5,000 cups without descaling
Cons:- Limited to 5 coffee varieties
- Fewer customization options than higher-tier models
- Limited color choices
Best for: Home users who want good espresso and milk drinks with simple operation and minimal fuss.
Not ideal for: Coffee connoisseurs seeking extensive customization or users who want a wide variety of preset drinks.
- Brand:Philips
- Model:EP3241/54
- Coffee Varieties:Espresso, Coffee, Americano, Cappuccino, Latte Macchiato
- Display:Touchscreen
- Milk System:LatteGo
- Grinder:Ceramic
- Filter:AquaClean
- Capacity:Up to 5,000 cups
Bottom line: Excellent for everyday use where simple, quality coffee is the priority over extensive variety or customization.
De’Longhi Eletta Explore Espresso Machine with Cold Brew and Milk Frother
The De’Longhi Eletta Explore stands out for its impressive variety of over 50 one-touch drinks, including hot and cold options, making it ideal for households that want a full spectrum of coffee experiences without multiple appliances. Compared with the Philips 4400 Series, it offers more personalized recipes and app connectivity, but this complexity can be overwhelming for new users. The Cold Extraction Technology delivers cold brew in under 3 minutes—an advantage over many traditional machines—but maintaining the touchscreen and app features requires more regular attention. Its built-in grinder with 13 settings guarantees fresh grounds, enhancing flavor, yet the machine’s advanced features come at a higher price and potential learning curve.
Pros:- Offers over 50 customizable recipes with one-touch operation
- Built-in grinder with 13 settings for fresh coffee
- Fast cold brew in under 3 minutes with Cold Extraction Technology
- Touchscreen interface and app connectivity for personalized profiles
Cons:- May be complex for beginners to fully utilize all features
- Higher price point due to advanced technology
- Requires regular cleaning of removable parts
Best for: Tech-savvy coffee lovers who want a highly customizable, all-in-one machine with cold brew capability
Not ideal for: Casual users or those seeking a straightforward, budget-friendly espresso machine, as its complexity and cost may be overkill
- Capacity:Up to 16 oz per brew
- Display:3.5-inch TFT full-touch screen
- Grinder Settings:13 grind levels
- Milk Frothing:Hot & Cold LatteCrema Systems
- Cold Brew Time:Under 3 minutes
- Connectivity:Smartphone compatible with Coffee Link App
Bottom line: This machine is best suited for tech-savvy users who desire a wide range of coffee options and innovative cold brew functionality.
De’Longhi Magnifica Start Automatic Espresso Machine with Built-in Grinder and Manual Milk Frother
The De’Longhi Magnifica Start offers a straightforward, automatic espresso experience with essential features like a built-in grinder and manual milk frother, making it suitable for those new to espresso making. Unlike the more sophisticated Philips 4400 Series, it lacks preset profiles and app connectivity, but this simplicity appeals to users who prefer manual control over milk frothing and brewing. Its 13 grind settings allow for tailored flavor, while the removable, dishwasher-safe parts simplify cleaning. However, the manual frother requires some skill to produce good textured milk, and its bulk may be problematic for small kitchens.
Pros:- Easy to use with one-touch recipes for espresso and coffee
- Customizable grind settings for flavor control
- Manual milk frother allows textured foam
- Removable, dishwasher-safe parts simplify cleaning
Cons:- Manual milk frother requires skill to master
- Potentially bulky for small kitchens
- Limited advanced features and connectivity
Best for: Beginner home baristas who want an easy, affordable machine with manual milk frothing control
Not ideal for: Coffee connoisseurs seeking advanced customization or app integration, as it lacks these features
- Grind Settings:13
- Functions:Espresso, Coffee, Americano
- Milk Frother:Manual
- Cleaning:Removable, dishwasher-safe parts
Bottom line: This machine is ideal for beginners who want a reliable, easy-to-use espresso maker with manual milk frothing at an affordable price.
CASABREWS 3700 Essential Espresso Machine 20 Bar, Stainless Steel Cappuccino & Latte Coffee Maker with Steam Frother for Home, 43.9oz Water Tank
The CASABREWS 3700 delivers barista-level espresso thanks to its 20-bar pump pressure, making it a top pick for those who want café-quality drinks. Unlike the Philips 4400, it emphasizes pump power over digital customization, which appeals to users who prefer manual control over extraction. Its compact stainless steel design fits well in most kitchens, and the large 43.9 oz water tank reduces refilling frequency. The steam frother is powerful enough for latte art, but the machine requires some familiarity to operate effectively, and it lacks a pressure gauge for monitoring extraction quality.
Pros:- Delivers professional 20-bar pressure for rich espresso
- Powerful steam wand for milk frothing and latte art
- Compact, stylish stainless steel design
- Large 43.9 oz water tank for fewer refills
Cons:- Requires some familiarity with espresso operation
- No built-in pressure gauge for monitoring extraction
- Initial setup and priming needed
Best for: Coffee enthusiasts who want a semi-automatic machine capable of high-pressure espresso and milk frothing
Not ideal for: Users seeking fully automatic features or digital profiles, as this machine favors manual operation
- Brand:CASABREWS
- Color:Silver
- Product Dimensions:12.6″D x 5.7″W x 12.5″H
- Water Tank Capacity:43.9 oz
- Pump Pressure:20 Bar
- Power:1350 W
- Operation Mode:Semi-Automatic
Bottom line: This machine suits coffee lovers who prioritize high-pressure extraction and milk steaming, willing to learn manual operation for café-quality drinks.
Philips 4400 Series Fully Automatic Espresso Machine with LatteGo Milk System
The Philips 4400 Series offers a balanced mix of convenience and quality, with 12 preset drinks, including lattes and iced coffees, all customizable via profiles. It’s a step up from manual machines like the Magnifica Start thanks to its automatic grinder and the proprietary LatteGo milk system, which simplifies cleaning. Its quiet operation and quick brew times make it suitable for busy households, but the upfront cost can be significant, and the large footprint may be an issue in tight spaces. Regular maintenance of the milk system is required to keep it hygienic and functioning smoothly.
Pros:- Easy one-touch operation with customizable profiles
- Fast and quiet brewing with SilentBrew technology
- Hygienic and quick-clean LatteGo milk system
- Multiple preset options for variety
Cons:- Expensive upfront cost
- Requires regular cleaning of milk system
- Large footprint for small kitchens
Best for: Busy households seeking a consistent, fast, and easy-to-clean espresso experience with minimal fuss
Not ideal for: Home baristas who want more manual control or advanced customization options, as the machine focuses on automation
- Model:EP4444/90
- Pressure:15 Bar
- Milk System:LatteGo
- Presets:12
- Color:Black Chrome
- Features:Integrated grinder, QuickStart, SilentBrew, customizable profiles
Bottom line: This espresso machine suits users who prioritize convenience, speed, and consistent results with minimal manual effort.
20 Bar Espresso Coffee Machine with LED Touch Screen, Self-Cleaning, and Milk Frother
This espresso machine stands out for its intuitive LED touch screen and quick heat-up, making it ideal for small spaces where simplicity and speed matter. Compared with the Philips 3300 Series, it offers a more straightforward interface but lacks the extensive preset options and quiet operation of the Philips model. Its compact design is perfect for home or office use, but the smaller water tank may require frequent refilling during heavy use. The self-cleaning feature simplifies maintenance, yet the manual operation of the milk frother requires some skill for perfect foam. Overall, this pick makes the most sense for users who prioritize ease of use and quick espresso in limited space.
Pros:- Easy to operate with an intuitive touchscreen
- Quick heat-up time under 40 seconds
- Includes self-cleaning function for maintenance convenience
- Produces café-quality espresso and milk-based drinks
Cons:- May be small for high-volume use
- Requires some familiarity with espresso machines for optimal use
Best for: Individuals or small households needing quick, quality espresso with minimal fuss and space constraints
Not ideal for: High-volume users or those seeking extensive drink customization, as its small size limits capacity and flexibility
- Pressure:20 bar
- Power:1350W
- Tank Capacity:41 oz
- Features:LED touch screen, self-cleaning, milk frother, compact design
Bottom line: This model is perfect for small spaces and users who want a straightforward, fast espresso experience.
De’Longhi Magnifica Evo Automatic Espresso & Coffee Machine with Manual Milk Frother, Built-in Grinder & Auto-Clean Function
The De’Longhi Magnifica Evo excels in offering a broad range of beverages with its five one-touch presets, including espresso, Americano, and iced coffee. Unlike the Philips 3300 Series, it provides a built-in grinder with 13 settings, allowing for fresh grounds and richer flavor. However, its manual milk frother demands some skill to produce perfect foam, which might challenge beginners. Its auto-clean function reduces maintenance hassle, but the higher price point reflects its advanced features. This machine is better suited to users who want variety and control over their drinks without sacrificing convenience.
Pros:- Multiple one-touch beverage options for convenience
- Precise grinding with 13 settings for flavor control
- Easy to clean with removable, dishwasher-safe parts
- Built-in grinder ensures fresh grounds every time
Cons:- Manual milk frother requires skill for perfect foam
- Potentially higher price for advanced features
Best for: Home baristas who enjoy customizing their coffee and milk drinks with a variety of options
Not ideal for: Those seeking a fully automatic milk frothing experience or a lower-cost entry-level machine
- Grind Settings:13
- Milk Frother:Manual
- Auto-Clean:Yes
- Beverage Options:Espresso, Coffee, Americano, Iced Coffee, Long Coffee
Bottom line: This machine suits users who value drink variety and personalized brewing but are comfortable with some manual frothing.
Philips 3300 Series Fully Automatic Espresso Machine with Milk Frother and Grinder, 5 Hot & Iced Coffee Presets, SilentBrew, 15-Bar Pressure, Glossy Black
The Philips 3300 Series offers a high level of customization with five preset beverages, automatic grinding, and milk frothing, making it comparable to the De’Longhi Magnifica Evo but with the added benefit of SilentBrew technology. This feature significantly reduces noise during operation, ideal for quiet mornings or office environments. Its full color touchscreen simplifies operation, although the higher price may be a barrier for some. Regular filter replacements and maintenance are necessary, similar to other premium models. This machine makes the most sense for users who want a quiet, customizable experience with minimal manual effort during brewing.
Pros:- Customizable beverages with multiple presets
- Automatic grinding, tamping, and brewing for convenience
- SilentBrew technology minimizes noise
- Full color touchscreen for easy control
Cons:- Higher price point may deter budget buyers
- Requires regular filter maintenance
Best for: Home users who prioritize quiet operation and beverage customization with minimal manual intervention
Not ideal for: Budget-conscious buyers or those preferring simpler machines without a grinder
- Pressure:15 Bar
- Presets:5 Hot & Iced Coffee
- Milk Frother:Yes, Classic Milk System
- Noise Level:40% quieter with SilentBrew
- Display:Full color touchscreen
- Filter:AquaClean
Bottom line: Ideal for those seeking quiet, customizable coffee with automatic features and modern controls.
Ninja Luxe Café 3-in-1 Espresso, Drip Coffee, and Cold Brew Machine | Stainless Steel | ES601
The Ninja Luxe Café ES601 stands out for its ability to brew espresso, drip coffee, and cold brew in one machine, making it a versatile choice compared to single-focus espresso machines like the De’Longhi Rivelia. Its guided Barista Assist Technology ensures consistent quality, and the integrated grinder offers fresh grounds with 25 settings. However, the complex setup and lack of detailed size specifications might be overwhelming for beginners. Its high price reflects its multi-functionality, which appeals most to home baristas who want variety without multiple appliances. This pick makes sense for those seeking a comprehensive coffee station rather than a dedicated espresso machine.
Pros:- Versatile 3-in-1 brewing options for espresso, drip, and cold brew
- Guided Barista Assist Technology for consistent results
- Integrated conical burr grinder with 25 settings
- Hands-free frothing with preset programs
Cons:- Complex setup may be challenging for beginners
- No specific size or weight info provided
Best for: Home coffee enthusiasts wanting a multi-drink system with guided assistance
Not ideal for: Users focused solely on espresso quality or on a tight budget
- Machine Types:Espresso, Drip Coffee, Cold Brew
- Grinder:Conical burr, 25 grind settings
- Frothing System:Dual Froth System with 4 presets
- Capacity:Varies by drink (6-18 oz)
- Material:Stainless Steel
- Included Accessories:Portafilter, Milk Jug, Baskets, Tamper, Cleaning tools
Bottom line: Best for users who want a flexible, all-in-one coffee maker with guided features for home use.
De’Longhi Rivelia Automatic Espresso Machine with Grinder & Milk Frother
The De’Longhi Rivelia combines bean flexibility with a wide range of recipes, including 18 preset drinks, thanks to its dual bean hoppers and customizable settings. Unlike the Philips 3300, it offers more recipes and allows switching beans easily, ideal for users who enjoy experimenting with different flavors. Its automatic milk frother produces velvety foam, but the setup can be complex for newcomers, and the price might be high for casual coffee drinkers. Its automatic features and dual bean hoppers make it best suited for serious coffee lovers who want variety and control in their daily routine.
Pros:- Easy one-touch operation for a wide variety of drinks
- Dual bean hoppers enable switching beans effortlessly
- Customizable grind, strength, and temperature
- Automatic milk frother for velvety foam
Cons:- Setup may require some learning curve
- Limited color options and potentially high price
Best for: Coffee enthusiasts who want extensive recipe options and bean flexibility
Not ideal for: Casual users or those seeking a simple, straightforward machine
- Bean Hoppers:2 x 8.8 oz
- Grinder:13-setting burr
- Presets:18 recipes
- Milk Frother:LatteCrema Hot System
- Color:Black
Bottom line: Best for serious coffee lovers craving recipe variety and bean flexibility with automatic convenience.
How We Picked
This lineup was curated based on a combination of performance, usability, build quality, and value. We prioritized machines that deliver consistent espresso quality with minimal user intervention, focusing on models that include integrated grinders, milk frothers, and intuitive controls. Ease of maintenance and reliability also played a crucial role, as these factors impact long-term satisfaction. The ranking reflects a balance between features and affordability, ensuring options for different budgets and skill levels. Our evaluation aimed to identify machines that truly elevate home espresso making without overwhelming the user with complexity.Factors to Consider When Choosing Super Automatic Espresso Machine
Choosing a super automatic espresso machine involves weighing several key factors beyond just brand and price. Understanding your specific needs and usage habits can help narrow down options. From ease of operation to maintenance requirements, each factor influences daily enjoyment and long-term satisfaction. This section highlights the most important considerations to help you make an informed decision.Performance and Drink Quality
Look for machines with strong pressure ratings (typically 15-19 bars) and good brewing temperature control, which directly impact espresso flavor and crema. Machines with built-in grinders often produce fresher, more flavorful coffee but require regular calibration. Avoid overly complex control panels if you prefer simplicity; however, more advanced models may offer customizable profiles for different drinks. Consistency in shot quality is vital, especially if you enjoy multiple daily espressos.
Ease of Use and User Interface
Intuitive controls, clear displays, and programmable presets make daily operation smoother. Touchscreens and simple button layouts reduce user error and speed up drink preparation. Keep in mind that more feature-rich machines can sometimes be overwhelming at first, so consider your comfort level with technology. Clear instructions and easy programming can make a significant difference in your overall experience.
Maintenance and Durability
Regular cleaning is essential for optimal performance and longevity. Machines with automatic cleaning cycles and easy-access components simplify this process. Check the availability of replacement parts and filters, as these impact ongoing costs. Durability depends on build quality; stainless steel components tend to last longer than plastic parts, which may be more prone to wear and tear.
Size, Design, and Kitchen Fit
Super automatics come in various sizes, from compact models to larger, feature-rich units. Consider your available counter space and whether the machine’s design complements your kitchen decor. Some machines have a sleek, modern look, while others are more utilitarian. A larger footprint might offer more features but could be less practical in smaller kitchens.
Price and Value
High-end models with extensive features command higher prices but often deliver superior performance and durability. Budget options can work well for casual users but may lack advanced features or consistency. Weigh the initial cost against ongoing expenses like cleaning supplies and replacements. Investing more upfront can sometimes reduce long-term costs by avoiding frequent repairs or replacements.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make different types of coffee drinks with a super automatic espresso machine?
Yes, most super automatic espresso machines are designed to prepare a variety of drinks such as espresso, cappuccino, latte, and more. They typically include programmable settings and milk frothers, allowing you to customize each beverage. However, the range of options varies between models, with some offering more drink presets than others. Consider your preferred drinks to select a machine that offers the versatility you want.
How difficult is it to clean and maintain a super automatic espresso machine?
Maintenance requirements depend on the model, but many machines now feature automatic cleaning cycles and removable components for easier upkeep. Regular descaling, cleaning milk frother parts, and replacing filters are necessary to keep the machine performing well. Machines with auto-clean functions reduce the hassle, but routine manual cleaning is still recommended. Proper maintenance extends the lifespan and ensures consistent coffee quality.
Is it worth investing in a more expensive super automatic espresso machine?
Higher-priced models often include better build quality, more precise temperature and pressure control, and advanced features like customizable profiles or larger water tanks. While the initial investment is higher, these machines tend to offer improved durability and performance, which can save money over time. If you regularly enjoy high-quality espresso or need a machine that can handle multiple drinks efficiently, paying more can be a worthwhile upgrade.
Do super automatic espresso machines use a lot of energy?
Most models are designed with energy efficiency in mind, featuring standby modes and programmable power-off settings. Larger, feature-rich machines may consume more energy during operation, but overall, they are comparable to other kitchen appliances in daily use. If energy consumption is a concern, look for models with energy-saving features and consider turning the machine off after use.
Can I use pre-ground coffee with a super automatic espresso machine?
While most super automatics are built around their integrated grinders for maximum freshness, some models do have a bypass doser that allows you to use pre-ground coffee. This can be useful if you want to try different blends or avoid grinding in the morning. However, using pre-ground coffee may reduce flavor and crema quality compared to freshly ground beans, so consider how often you plan to switch between beans and pre-ground options.
Conclusion
For most home users seeking a seamless experience, the Philips 5500 Series offers a balanced mix of performance, ease of use, and durability, making it the best overall choice. Those prioritizing affordability without sacrificing quality may prefer the Philips 3200 Series as a strong value option. For a premium experience with advanced features, the De’Longhi Magnifica Evo stands out. Beginners or casual drinkers will appreciate models with simple controls, while coffee enthusiasts who want versatility and customization should consider higher-end units like the De’Longhi Eletta Explore. Ultimately, your choice depends on your budget, space, and how much you value convenience versus customization.
