The Lelit Victoria performed well in our test. With our tips, we improved the machine's performance. We therefore consider the Lelit Victoria a good entry-level espresso machine for many applications. This single-circuit machine from Lelit delivers everything you need to make a good espresso.
Fast Heat instead of waiting time
Let's cut to the chase and start with our most important finding: The Lelit Victoria heats up in 23 minutes without any further action. That's slow and can be annoying. Who wants to wait when the desire for espresso is there NOW!
To shorten the 23 minutes, we used a method that's becoming increasingly standard on other espresso machines. Generally speaking, the boiler temperature is raised above the target temperature to warm up the portafilter and the rest of the machine more quickly. The temperature is then deliberately lowered back to the desired target temperature.
With the Lelit Victoria, quick heating works like this:
- The machine will start normally. After 3 minutes, the machine will indicate that the espresso temperature has been reached.
- Now switch to steam mode. This is only possible with the Lelit Victoria after the boiler has reached the espresso temperature. You'll remain in steam mode for 7 minutes.
- Then set the machine back to espresso mode and make an empty brew (without the portafilter inserted).
- Now you have one minute to grind the coffee, tamp it, and then, after one minute, make the espresso.
It's important to note that the machine's temperature won't yet be stable after this time. An espresso can be brewed well at this time. To achieve a consistently stable brewing temperature, you should wait longer.
Design and functions
The Lelit Victoria is a compact machine measuring 38 cm high, 27.8 cm deep (32.8 cm with plug), and 23.5 cm wide including the steam wheel. The machine weighs 10.9 kg. The water tank holds 2.35 liters, and the drip tray has a volume of 0.9 liters.
The brass boiler has a capacity of 300 ml and, as is typical for single-circuit machines , is designed for both espresso preparation and steam production. The boiler temperature can be controlled via the Lelit Control Center (LCC) and PID.
The ring brewing group accommodates a 58 mm portafilter. The included portafilter is made of chrome-plated brass. The Lelit Victoria is similar to the Lelit Elizabeth in its slimmer design and finish. Lelit remains true to its design philosophy, with sharp edges well covered with rubber lips or softened by bent edges.
The Victoria also has a steam wheel, which is primarily functional and otherwise simply designed.
Temperature stability
For a single-boiler machine with a small boiler, the Lelit Victoria demonstrates solid temperature performance. Our espresso shots were correspondingly stable. Even at higher speeds, the machine didn't 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 observed a significant offset deviation with this Lelit. This means the machine is not delivering the set brewing temperature. The offset should be checked and adjusted by your dealer!
Specialist retailers recommended by us
- Stoll Espresso , Germany
- Bean dealer , Austria
- The Roasters , Switzerland
We search for specialist partners for you who we know offer good work and excellent service. We maintain close contact with the dealers. These are commission links. If you order through these links, it doesn't cost you any more, but we receive a small commission, which we invest in new test equipment.
Milk frothing with the single-circuit machine
After the espresso is drawn, the machine switches to milk mode for frothing. It takes 90 seconds for the machine to reach the desired foaming point. Then it delivers enough foam power to froth. The small machine struggles with a 0.6-liter carafe. We heat hot water in the 0.6-liter carafe in 65 seconds.
But it's not as if it's impossible. Anyone who gets used to their Lelit Victoria will achieve satisfactory results. It's certainly sufficient for occasional cappuccinos and the like. If milk-based beverages are your primary focus, you might want to consider 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-circuit machine does mean some compromises. However, in its segment, the Victoria performs well and delivers delicious results.
The temperature consistency is impressive, and with our tips, you'll get it up to temperature quickly enough. If you're looking for a small espresso machine and primarily drink espresso, the Victoria is definitely a good choice.
The materials also suggest that the machine is more durable than other plastic "monsters" 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 range.
- Compact design : Ideal for smaller kitchens or rooms without sacrificing functionality.
- User-friendliness : Despite some setting options, the machine remains user-friendly, even for beginners.
- Fast heating time : With some tricks, the heating time can be significantly reduced, 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 range.
- Value for money : Offers many features and good quality at a fair price, especially compared to other machines in the same segment.
Disadvantages of the Lelit Victoria PL91T
- Single-circuit system : Limits flexibility, as espresso and milk drinks can only be prepared one after the other. After brewing the espresso, you have to wait about 90 seconds for the small boiler to switch from espresso to steam quality.
- Learning curve : A certain amount of training and practice is required for optimal results.
- Pre-brew function : The pre-brew function as used here drains the pre-brew water and is not ideal for good extractions.
- Steam output : The steam output is rather low, but typical for a single-circuit machine and even quite good in this segment.
- Energy consumption : While the turbo heating mode is convenient, it consumes more energy than the slow heating mode. In fact, the energy consumption is identical when heating the machine quickly or slowly.
- Button operation : The buttons are stiff.
Backup material Lelit Victoria
Energy consumption. Learn more about it and how we measure it here.
