If you have a decent grinder (Baratza Virtuoso or Vario, or a Hario Handgrinder), this machine will pull a very tasty shot. I use Lelit espresso machine ($650) and Hamilton Beach Espresso Maker actually competes well against my home machine for espresso pulling. For Latte art, I have seen some people do it on youtube but I just don't know how they do it. I think they mod the foaming wand.
Overall, I highly recommend for those who want to hone one's barista skill.