The Lelit Victoria delivered solid performance in our test. With our tips, we improved the machine's performance. Thus, the Lelit Victoria is a good entry-level espresso machine for many applications. This single-boiler from Lelit provides everything necessary for preparing good espresso.
Fast Heat instead of Waiting Time
Let's get straight to the point and start with our most important finding: Without any additional intervention, the Lelit Victoria heats up in 23 minutes. This is slow and can be annoying. Who wants to wait when the craving for espresso is NOW!
To shorten the 23 minutes, we applied a method that is increasingly integrated as standard in other espresso machines. Generally speaking, the temperature of the boiler is raised beyond the target temperature to heat the portafilter holder and the rest of the machine faster. Subsequently, the temperature is then deliberately lowered back to the desired target temperature.
For 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. This is only possible with the Lelit Victoria after the espresso temperature in the boiler has been reached. 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 and tamp the coffee, and then, after one minute, pull the espresso shot.
It is important to note that the machine's temperature is not yet stable afterwards. An espresso can be pulled well at this time. To achieve a consistently stable brewing temperature, one should wait longer.
Design and Functions
The Lelit Victoria is a compact machine, 38 cm high, 27.8 cm deep (32.8 cm with plug), and 23.5 cm wide including the steam knob. 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, typical for single-boiler machines, is designed 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 accommodates 58 mm portafilters. The included portafilter is made of chrome-plated brass. The Lelit Victoria resembles the Lelit Elizabeth in its narrower design and craftsmanship. Lelit stays true to its line; sharp edges are well covered with rubber lips or softened by bending the edges.
The Victoria also features a steam knob, 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 extractions were consistently stable. Even with higher frequency, the machine did not significantly deviate from the target temperature. In the WBC protocol, we recorded a standard deviation of 1.28 degrees over 14 extractions. This places 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.
Attention: We also found a significant offset deviation with this Lelit. This means the machine does not output the set brewing temperature. The offset should be checked and adjusted by your specialist dealer!
Specialist Dealers Recommended by Us
- Stoll Espresso, Germany
- Bohnendealer, Austria
- Die Röster, Switzerland
We look for specialist partners for you that we know provide good work and good service. We are in close contact with these dealers. These are affiliate links. If you order through these links, it won't cost you more, but we'll receive a small commission, which we invest in new testing equipment.
Steaming Milk with a Single-Boiler Machine
After brewing the espresso, switch to milk mode for steaming. It takes 90 seconds for the machine to reach the target temperature range. Then, it delivers enough steaming power. 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.
But it's not impossible. Those who get used to their Lelit Victoria will achieve satisfactory results. For occasional cappuccinos and the like, this is certainly sufficient. If milk beverages are the main focus, then it should be questioned whether the Lelit Victoria is the right machine.
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 machine entails compromises. However, in its segment, the Victoria performs well and delivers delicious results.
The temperature consistency is impressive, and with our tips, you'll also reach temperature quickly enough. If you're looking for a small espresso machine and primarily drink espresso, the Victoria is certainly a good choice.
The materials also suggest that the machine is rather 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 range.
- Compact Design: Ideal for smaller kitchens or spaces, without having to sacrifice features.
- User-Friendly: Despite some setting 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 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-Boiler System: Limits flexibility, as espresso and milk beverages can only be prepared one after another. After brewing 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 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 even rather good in this segment.
- Energy Consumption: While the turbo heat-up mode is practical, it consumes more energy than slow heating. In fact, the energy consumption for fast and slow heating of the machine is identical.
- Button Operation: The buttons are stiff.
Backup Material Lelit Victoria
Energy consumption. More about it and how we measure here.
