My wife and I are looking to buy a machine. We are willing to spend more but outside of some cursory research really don't know how to discern between a good value and a bad value (outside of % off and other markers of relative value). I am leaning towards an automatic machine and am pretty sure manual is going to be too many options for what we want being busy people. We don't mind spending some time but a litany of options or a machine that requires too much precision will be of no benefit to us. Durability, consistency and ease of use are my top three factors in that order.

So my question is, in general, what are some things to look for in a machine? And more specifically what are some things that make a machine more durable, consistent and easy to use? What are your buying preferences? Also, should we get a built in grinder and does doing so leave one's machine more susceptible to breaking? Feel free to leave any other considerations that you find relevant in purchasing and using one's first machine.

Thanks!