Lelit Bianca

From doing research on espresso machines, the highest end machines you can get before diminishing returns kick in hard are machines like the Decent lineup and the Lelit Bianca. After that, you have "flex" espresso machines that are essentially commercial machines turned into home machines (Linea Mini, GS3, Slayer, Eagle One). These machines won't produce better espresso than Bianca/Decent, but look amazing and will produce really consistent shots... hence my statement on diminishing returns (since they are way above $3k mark).

If you’re into milk drinks - go for a dual boiler. Budget friendly options are Lelit Elizabeth and Rancilio Silvia pro. Top choice imo - Lelit Bianca or ECM Synchronica.

I like the dual boiler pids and pre-infusion. This is currently what I'm leaning towards. The Bianca is the upper limits of my budget. But I like the idea of flow control and its plumbable which is a big plus.

Lelit Bianca is my dream machine and I'm saving for if. If all depends what features you're looking for and what kinda drinks you're pulling. Most people would agree the Bianca is the best in the category you listed

1. Lelit Bianca - love the price point, having flow control (not a huge fan of the aesthetic/branding, worried about quality and resale value).

I recently upgraded from a Rocket Appartamento to the Lelit Bianca. It has been an amazing upgrade with significant improvement in my shot quality.

I just picked up a lelit bianca and love it! Flow control isn't for everyone and some don't find it helpful. I really enjoy it. I seriously considered the Synchronika but for my space the movable reservoir tank of the lelit made the most sense.

Lelit Bianca might be worth to look at even though it could be an overkill since you don’t drink Espresso

At that budget I would suggest a Lelit Bianca. It has flow profiling capabilities and a built in PID.

Lelit Bianca, Profitec Pro 700, Rocket R60, Linea Mini.

You wanna go more badass get a Slayer single group machine.