I'm in the same boat. I've been a nespresso pod user for about 3+ years now and about a 2 months ago, I've decided to get an espresso machine to compliment my coffee addition setup. Needless to say it was the best thing ever. There are days where u just want a quick coffee fix and thats where the pods come in and nespresso if u really want to pull those barista/cafe mouthfeel goodness. So, I got myself a Milesto EM19M2 for about 1K used.. It's a China brand but don't let that put u off.. It has so far done wonders I can froth and pull a shot at the same time because of the double boiler. It's an entry unit so don't expect it to perform like your Lelit, Marazocca, ECM, Rocket.. etc.. etc.. but if you're just looking to get into espresso machine this would probably be it.

I know a lot of people are pro delonghi and the likes, where it's really no hassle and easy push of a button like the nespresso. If you're looking for that kind of simplicity no hassle then yes I believe those will get you what u need. I originally had a budget of about RM700 but end up spending way more to also get a good grinder. I didn't want a machine that would 'pull' the same taste/feel like a nespresso machiane would. If you can, go above and get a good machine that will last u.

FYI, even with nespresso pods i still crave the cafe style coffee.. but every since getting the Milesto, I've stopped altogether. End up just buying the whole beans from the cafes i used to frequent and do it myself. ..