Post-Millennium Europiccola Handle vs Newer Fancier Stradivari Pro

Описание: I had the Europiccola for a while and it seems to be in pretty good condition.

I picked up a used but newer 'higher end' model the Stradivari Pro (1.6L boiler vs 800ml on my Europiccola) and not sure if it's a build quality difference or just that this one's got a bit beaten up and could use more maintenance but I did notice the lever was a bit squeaky and had a lot more wiggle room to it. Also apparently they changed the boiler heater material at one point (according to my friend who's experienced with these machines) so the new model is louder when heating up (random popping noises). Ended up lubing up the lever and re-selling the prettier but louder one.

Shot quality seemed to be pretty much the exact same. Steaming also seemed similar (had different steam tips on each though since I added 1 hole tip to my old one).
The main advantage of the Stradivari is that I don't have to re-fill it as often. It also does look nicer and more modern / sleek. I think the curved handle is a bit more ergonomic maybe.
You could also get a Europiccola Professional with the 1.6L boiler.

They're both pretty much the same great machines, I just hate steaming milk on them, it's awkward and a burn hazard :D You also don't have much control over the brew ratio, but they make killer ristrettos. Also in 51mm there's a lack of compatible high extraction basket options, not much basket options in general, I don't think the 51mm Delonghi baskets fit unfortunately. There is more options for 49mm but I believe the older 49mm La Pavoni machines have more issues with managing heat levels which is why so many people add modifications.