The Lelit Victoria performed well in our test. With our tips, we have improved the machine's performance. As a result, we consider the Lelit Victoria a great entry-level espresso machine for many applications. This single-boiler machine from Lelit delivers everything you need to prepare a good espresso.
Fast heat instead of waiting
Let's get straight to the point and start with our most important finding: without any intervention, the Lelit Victoria takes 23 minutes to heat up. That is slow and can be annoying. Who wants to wait when the craving for espresso is there RIGHT NOW!
To shorten the 23 minutes, we used a method that is increasingly becoming standard in other espresso machines. Generally speaking, the boiler temperature is raised above the target temperature to heat the portafilter holder and the rest of the machine more quickly. Subsequently, the temperature is intentionally lowered back to the desired target temperature.
On the Lelit Victoria, fast heating works as follows:
- The machine is started normally. After 3 minutes, the machine indicates that the espresso temperature has been reached.
- Now switch to steam mode. On the Lelit Victoria, this is only possible after the espresso temperature has been reached in the boiler. Stay in steam mode for 7 minutes.
- After that, switch the machine back to espresso mode and perform a blank shot (without an inserted portafilter).
- Now you have one minute to grind the coffee, tamp it, and then, after one minute, pull your espresso.
It is important to note that the machine is not yet temperature-stable at this point. An espresso can certainly be pulled at this time, but for lasting temperature stability, you should wait longer.
Design and features
The Lelit Victoria is a compact machine that is 38 cm high, 27.8 cm (32.8 cm with plug) deep, and 23.5 cm wide including the steam knob. The machine weighs 10.9 kg. The water tank has a capacity of 2.35 liters and the drip tray has a volume of 0.9 liters.
The brass boiler has a capacity of 300 ml and is, as is typical for single-boiler machines, intended for both espresso preparation and steam generation. The boiler temperature can be controlled via the Lelit Control Center (LCC) and PID.
The ring brew group accepts 58 mm portafilters. The included portafilter is made of chrome-plated brass. The Lelit Victoria is similar in its narrower design and workmanship to the Lelit Elizabeth. Lelit stays true to its line; sharp edges are well covered with rubber strips or smoothed out by bending the edges.
The Victoria also features a steam knob that is primarily functional and otherwise simply designed.
Temperature stability
For a single-boiler machine with a small boiler, the Lelit Victoria shows solid temperature performance. Our espresso shots were consistently stable. Even with higher throughput, the machine did not deviate significantly from the target temperature. In the WBC protocol, we recorded a standard deviation of 1.28 degrees over 14 shots. This puts it in a similar range to its dual-boiler sister, the Elizabeth. For comparison: A Lelit Bianca V3 achieved a standard deviation of 0.7.
Caution: We also noted a significant offset deviation with this Lelit. This means that the machine does not output the set brewing temperature. The offset should be checked and adjusted by your specialist retailer!
Recommended specialist retailers
- Stoll Espresso, Germany
- Bohnendealer, Austria
- Die Röster, Switzerland
We look for specialist partners for you who we know offer good work and good service. We are in close contact with these retailers. These are affiliate links. If you order via these links, it won't cost you anything extra, but we receive a small commission that we put into new test equipment.
Milk frothing with the single-boiler
After pulling the espresso, you switch to milk mode for frothing. It takes 90 seconds for the machine to reach the target range. Then it provides enough steam power for frothing. The small machine struggles a bit with a 0.6-liter pitcher. We heat hot water in the 0.6-liter pitcher in 65 seconds.
However, it is not impossible. Those who get used to their Lelit Victoria will achieve satisfying results. It is certainly enough for the occasional cappuccino and the like. If milk drinks are your main focus, you should ask yourself whether the Lelit Victoria is the right machine for you.
Conclusion and impressions of the Lelit Victoria
The Lelit Victoria is available for around 800 Swiss francs or euros and is a very interesting espresso machine in this price range. Yes, a single-boiler means compromises have to be made. However, in its segment, the Victoria performs well and stands for delicious results.
The temperature consistency is impressive, and with our tips, you can reach temperature quickly enough. If you are looking for a small espresso machine and mainly drink espresso, you are definitely in good hands with the Victoria.
The materials also indicate that the machine is likely to be durable compared to other plastic "monstrosities" in the same price range.
Advantages of the Lelit Victoria PL91T
- PID control: Allows precise control of the brewing temperature, which is crucial for preparing a perfect espresso. Not a given in this price class.
- Compact design: Ideal for smaller kitchens or rooms without having to sacrifice functionality.
- User-friendliness: Despite some settings options, the machine remains user-friendly, even for beginners.
- Fast heat-up time: With tricks, the heat-up time can be significantly shortened, ideal for a quick espresso in the morning.
- Decent build quality: Robust design and high-quality materials compared to many other machines in this price class.
- Value for money: Offers many functions and good quality at a fair price, especially compared to other machines in the same segment.
Disadvantages of the Lelit Victoria PL91T
- Single-boiler system: Limits flexibility, as espresso and milk drinks can only be made one after the other. After pulling the espresso, you have to wait about 90 seconds for the small boiler to switch from espresso to steam quality.
- Learning curve: A certain degree of familiarization and practice is required for optimal results.
- Pre-infusion function: The pre-infusion function as used here drains the pre-infusion water and is not ideal for good extractions.
- Steam power: The steam power is rather low, but typical for a single-boiler and actually quite good for this segment.
- Energy consumption: While the turbo heat-up mode is practical, it uses more energy than the slow heat-up. In fact, energy consumption is identical for fast and slow heating of the machine.
- Button operation: The buttons are stiff.
Backup material Lelit Victoria
Energy consumption. Find out more about it and how we measure here.
