We currently have a nespresso machine that I actually really like, Mrs OJ and I can have different coffee without problems, the coffee is good IMO and it is reasonably convenient. However, since converting to iDaves diet, I am drinking a lot more coffee (ditched tea to avoid the milk) and I am drinking a lot more coffee which makes the nespresso rather an expensive option.

What is the forum opinion on the best espresso machine these days?

Requirements:
Not too big
Heats up reasonably quickly
Doesn’t need to take whole beans but could be considered
Steam spout, not a self frothing thingy

(I love the Rapha one if anyone saw that, but €1700!!! 😯 )

We have one of these in Red which makes good coffee and is fairly quick:

You can use ground coffee (we founds lavazza espresso to be best) or pods which I’ve never used outside of the free ones which came with it as they are expensive.

HTH.

I’ve been really pleased with my Gaggia Classic. The steam wand can be modified if that’s important to you. Buy a grinder and you’re good to go.

Ive had a few machines, the best answer I think is a Grinder and a Presso.