Dual-circuit espresso machines compared – the big espresso machine test

We've tested 12 dual-boiler espresso machines side by side over the past weeks and months. This series of tests was the most comprehensive we've conducted to date. Each machine was discussed in a separate video . We explored its key features and highlighted its differences, strengths, and weaknesses.

This text is a comparison of all machines. It was published alongside our detailed test and comparison video of all dual-boiler espresso machines.

We tested the following machines: Rocket Appartamento *, Lelit Mara X , ECM Manufacture Mechanika V Slim , Profitec Pro 500 , Bezzera BZ10 , Rocket Mozzafiato Cronometro R *, Quick Mill Rubino *, ACM Homey , Quick Mill Andreja Premium PID *, Elba 1 969.coffee *, Bezzera Magica , Xenia Espresso

Not part of the test were the following two-circuit models, which we have tested in the meantime: Rocket Appartamento TCA , Sanremo CUBE

The linked video is intended to complement the article. It also provides illustrative material on specific topics. We've placed chapter markers to make it easier to find specific information.

Disclaimer : In Switzerland, you can currently purchase the machines marked with an asterisk * from us. However, we would only recommend them to you with reservations. We conducted this test objectively, to the best of our knowledge and belief, across all machines. We speak openly about what we—Michel and I—like about the machines and identify their strengths and weaknesses.

We also conducted the series of tests to determine which machines could be added to our product range and which should be discontinued. This comparison was also very exciting and informative for us. In the direct comparison, we also observed clearer performance increases and decreases compared to the individual tests.

As coffee makers , we see ourselves as a coffee school that supports knowledge transfer and exchange within the coffee market. We run a coffee farm in Nicaragua, a roastery in Basel, and two cafés, and we share our applied knowledge in our courses, articles, and videos.

13 machines: Michel Aeschbacher with Rocket Appartamento, Lelit Mara

What did we test with the espresso machines?

We're going even further with this test report. In addition to the external workmanship and quality, we tested each machine's milk frothing ability . The espresso machine test provides information on the power consumption of the dual-circuit machines and shows the temperature consistency during espresso extraction. For each machine, we show the temperature from the start of the espresso extraction to the end point. The temperature and consistency during brewing are crucial for the quality of the coffee. Depending on its intended use, an espresso machine should be consistent across multiple extractions—i.e., the first, second, and third espresso. This is especially important if the machine is to be used in a larger household, a shared apartment, or at a party. We call this attribute "catering" or "shared apartment" capability.

The heat-up time of dual-circuit machines is important, and not just for early risers. We have some bad news here. The heat-up times of all machines don't differ so significantly that we have a clear test winner. We recommend starting all 12 espresso machines 25 minutes before the first brew. Only then will the machines be thoroughly heated, and some machines even take a little longer.

We used this temperature sensor to measure the brewing temperature in the portafilter. Water is released through a small valve at the bottom, so the resistance is equivalent to an espresso.

Why is there no clear dual-circuit test winner?

While testing, experimenting, and getting to know the twelve espresso machines in depth, it became clear to us that it wouldn't be right to declare a ranking or a test winner. The machines' qualities vary too widely, their strengths too widely, and their possible uses also differ. The tests were primarily conducted by Michel Aeschbacher and me, Benjamin Hohlmann. Even so, we couldn't finally agree on which machine was the test winner for us.

For Michel, a lot of power is important when frothing milk, and the machine's exterior design and high-quality materials play a key role. For Benjamin, temperature consistency over five shots is crucial, so the espresso machine can also be used effectively during meetings. And up to this point, we haven't even talked about value for money.

In short, we've decided against an absolute ranking or adding up a grade or score for each category. Instead, we're working on identifying which espresso machines perform best in each category. Based on your own needs, you can then decide which machine suits you best. Sorry we can't make the decision for you.

If there were an espresso machine that truly rocked in every category, we wouldn't hesitate to call it that. Unfortunately, there isn't one. Instead, there are only partial test winners (and losers), Michel's favorites, Benjamin's favorites, and the best value for money. Enjoy reading.

Processing and external condition

Aesthetics and exterior appearance are debatable. However, four machines stand out in our test. A bright spot—also due to its attractive design with wooden handles and black finish—is the Xenia . The Xenia espresso machine can be configured modularly, allowing you to customize not only your desired appearance but also the desired configuration. The Xenia comes with one or two portafilters, in wood, classic, or even bottomless. Each modular option costs extra—but at the same time, you're not overloaded with unnecessary tools and gadgets. Anyone looking for sharp edges on the Xenia will be looking in vain.

Xenia Espresso in side view

The Rocket Mozzafiato Cronometro R, at €2,000 (CHF 2,400), surpasses our ranking in terms of cost structure. Accordingly, it boasts a high level of materials. The solid aluminum side panels are 8 mm thick and contribute to the Mozzafiato's high-quality appearance. Overall, the workmanship is good, with few sharp edges. The sturdy feet ensure stability, and the Cold Touch milk lance completes the machine. A built-in clock is a nice addition. The Quick Mill Andreja Premium PID is also among the better-made machines. As with the previously mentioned machines, you can see that part of the higher purchase price goes into clean edges and a well-thought-out finish.

The Lelit Mara X is one of the most affordable machines in the entire test. It's all the more pleasing that it doesn't skimp on its exterior design. The machine is just 22 cm wide and 41 cm deep. Anyone looking for a powerful espresso machine will prefer the Bezzere Magica or Rocket Mozzafiato, for example. The Lelit Mara X is different. It has rounded corners where other machines are angular. It's as quiet as a purring kitten, while the Rocket Appartamento next to it sounds like a tractor starting up. But when it comes to exterior workmanship, the Mara is right up there with the best. The side walls of the Mara are significantly thinner than, for example, the walls of a Quickmill Rubino – they feel a bit tinny when tapped. But that doesn't detract from its positive exterior appearance.

Recommended retailers for the Lelit Mara X*.

The Lelit Mara X in side view.

We get a solid exterior from the Profitec Pro 500, the Quick Mill Rubino, Bezzera Magica, Rocket Appartamento (embarrassing plastic railing – that’s a disgrace!), Elba and ECM Mechanika Slim.

The price structure of the two cheaper machines, the ACM Homey and BZ10 , is visible and tangible. They simply cut corners on many edges, and not every metal is cleanly ground. You can either be annoyed by this, or you can leave it alone. The bottom line is: while there are sharp edges, both machines are capable of brewing good espresso. We think it's better this way than the other way around.

Water tank – the clear leader

We probably would have skipped this chapter if there weren't such a clear leader. The Xenia espresso machine leaves all other dual-boiler machines far behind when it comes to water tank flexibility. One could also say that the machine's developer, Holger Dreißig, is the only one who took the water tank seriously and sought out smart solutions.

Freestanding espresso machines are easy to fill. However, there are certain configurations where the water tank cannot be removed from the top, and it's also difficult to fill with a carafe. And filling with a carafe is rather problematic anyway, as it always carries the risk of submerging the espresso machine.

The water tank on the Xenia can be removed from the side. Very practical.

The Xenia offers a side-loading option as an optional upgrade. The water tank can be removed from the left or right of the machine and filled that way. This is very practical in a tight kitchen or a confined space such as a caravan.

Incidentally, the slide-in version is also practical because it means the cups standing on top of the machine don't get in the way. The Bezzera Magica, Profitec Pro 500 , and the ECM Mechanika Slim offer good solutions for filling or dispensing from the top. The lid with the cups inside can be removed from the railing. Many other machines offer reduced space for cups and have a lid attached.

The ACM Homey offers the most awkward water tank removal (video 11:25). Since there's no handle and the slot next to the water tank is too small to reach into, removing the tank is a pain. Removing the water tank from the Elba 969 is also one of the least well-thought-out options. First, all the cups have to be covered, then a plastic grid, and finally a lid have to be removed. The handles on the water tank are flimsy, so the same finger-water-can cramp ensues here as well.

Supplied tamper

A portafilter is good when it is flush with the rim of the sieve and the metal base sinks in far enough that you can feel the rim of the sieve flush with the base with your fingers. The tamper on the Lelit Mara X does this best. The tamper is similar to some professional tampers and, with a circumference of 58.5 mm, is the ideal size. A clever feature is that only the bottom ring has exactly this diameter. This means that the tamper fits neatly against the wall of the sieve at the pressure surface. At the same time, the tamper is not so tight that a vacuum is created when you pull it out. Many flush tampers suck the perfectly tamped grounds back up, creating potential channeling points.

Both Quick Mill models also come with a wooden tamper. However, the standard 58mm size leaves too much space at the rim. It's a shame, as the base itself is quite thick and helps with even tamping.

The tamper on the ECM Mechanika Slim and Profitec Pro 500 impresses with its workmanship and sits almost perfectly in the portafilter. It fits more flush than the Rocket and Quick Mill tampers. The base of the tamper, however, is somewhat thinner, which causes the tamper to sink into the portafilter when tamping. This makes it more difficult to guide the tamper straight.

Both Rocket models come with an aluminum tamper. The distance to the portafilter rim is too great. Handling and aesthetics are certainly a matter of taste. The tamper is too small for larger hands. The upper pressure point has a straight edge, unlike the other tampers. Less comfortable—but certainly not a big deal. The tamper feels like a good fit next to the Rocket Appartamento . A higher-quality tamper would have been a good fit for the Rocket Mozzafiato , which is in the top price range for portafilters.

The other espresso machines are delivered without a tamper, or without anything worthy of such a name. Many machines come with a plastic token tamper. However, next to a high-quality dual-circuit machine, this is a bad joke. With the Xenia, you can purchase a tamper as an option. In our opinion, this makes sense.

A portafilter manufacturer doesn't have to be a tamper manufacturer. However, if they do include a tamper, please make sure it's a decent one. Tampers are often collector's items and are purchased separately anyway. There are many great tampers from small manufacturers, such as Tidaka , Hauck , and Prorista .

Portafilter of espresso machines

Portafilters and sieves are essential tools for the brewing process. They differ in handling, tamping ability, and even the quality of the sieves. In many videos, we've discussed how a good portafilter positions the spouts away from the espresso machine. The main reason is that this is the only way to tamp at the edge of the table, which is the best option for everyday use. It's quick, clean, and the portafilter doesn't require the hassle of threading it into a tamper station, potentially loosening the grounds.

With the variant on the left, you quickly slip when tamping and ruin the cake.

Our perspective is influenced by the "gastronomy" industry. We've installed tamper stations in coffee bars, but ultimately, the barista always tamped on a tamping mat at the edge of the bar. This is always possible with catering machines, as the spouts are positioned accordingly.

The outlets of the sieve carriers of the following machines facilitate tamping.

• ECM Mechanika Slim . One thing that's a little unattractive, however, is that the spout is very wide, causing the espresso to flicker as it flows from left to right. This doesn't affect the taste, but it sometimes looks like channeling and doesn't produce very good photos. 😊
• The Xenia Espresso Tamper is stylish—we got a great wooden construction. You pay extra for it, but it's impressive. The spouts are positioned in the direction we prefer, but unfortunately, they're just as wide as the ECM Mechanika Slim, which can lead to the aforementioned flickering effect.
• One of the most beautiful tampers in the field is the Profitec Pro 500. It's "installed the right way around," has pointed spouts, and fits comfortably in the hand.
• I'm similarly impressed with the portafilters of the Elba 969 and the ACM Homey . Both have matte portafilters that fit comfortably in the hand.

"Too futuristic," says Michel. "Clever," says Benjamin. The portafilter of the Lelit Mara X

The portafilter of the Lelit Mara X breaks away from the structure of classic portafilters. The espresso is released at the back and then flows to the front, where it is visible. Michel's and my opinions differ. Michel thinks the portafilter is "too futuristic." I like that Lelit has once again been creative and offered new solutions. It looks good how the espresso flows forward and is visible. While you can't tamp the Lelit portafilter at the edge of the table, since the spouts aren't on the floor, they don't get dirty and don't carry coffee particles with them that later end up in the espresso. This is one of our main arguments against tamping with a vertical tamper. Additionally, classic portafilters are tilted, making it difficult to tamp straight. The Lelit portafilter, however, is straight, so this problem doesn't exist.

The portafilter spouts of the other machines are twisted, making tamping more difficult. They are otherwise "classic," although the shape of the Bezzera Magica portafilter differs slightly.

The twisted portafilters are directly related to the size of the drip trays. The further a drip tray extends from the espresso machine, or the closer the brewing group is to the body of the machine, the less risk there is of water dripping in front of the machine during rinsing and brewing. In addition to the BZ10 , the Rocket Appartamento and the Bezzera Magica drip onto the countertop when rinsing.

Volume of espresso machines

Does the noise level of an espresso machine matter? Not for the quality of the espresso. But anyone who's ever skipped espresso in the morning because the rest of the house is still asleep knows how interesting a quiet espresso machine can be. However, it should be noted that almost every espresso grinder is louder. Therefore, the noise level of the espresso machine may be less relevant. For some, the Rocket Appartamento, which leads the noise level range at 83 decibels, might even sound good. As the saying goes: even if I'm off on my motorcycle, I want the rest of the village to know about it.

The other values:

• Quick Mill Andreja: 75 – 78
• Quick Mill Rubino: 79 – 80
• ECM Manufacture Mechanika V Slim: 79 – 81
• Rocket Mozzafiatto Cronometro R: 68 – 70
• Profitec Pro 500: 78 – 80
• Xenia Espresso: 75 – 77
• Bezzera Magica: 78 – 80
• Elba 1, 969.coffee: 78
• Bezzera BZ 10: 75 – 77
• ACM Homey: 79 – 80
• Lelit Mara X: 71

For the record: we measured the volume rather amateurishly with our cell phones, maintaining the same distance. Don't hold us to the decibel level. The values ​​will still give you an idea. For all you sound-sensitive people: here's the file to listen to for yourself.

Electricity consumption and energy efficiency

As with all electrical appliances, the actual power consumption of espresso machines is difficult to determine from the power consumption figures. For example, the Lelit Mara X uses 1400 W and the Rocket Appartamento 1200 W. However, these values ​​indicate consumption at full power. We were interested in how this changes over several hours of operation and what fluctuations occur with each machine.

We used electricity meters from mystrom for the measurements. Using the corresponding app, we obtained the following values.

How do you read the table showing the power consumption of espresso machines? The machine is heated up for 25 minutes. Then, according to the test instructions for temperature measurement (see below), the brewing of five double espressos at approximately one-minute intervals is simulated. After this simulation is completed, the power consumption is recorded. Two hours later, a double espresso is simulated (5-second rinse / 30-second water extraction), and the power consumption is recorded. After another two hours, a double espresso is also simulated, and the machine is cleaned. This is done by backflushing five times for four seconds. The machine is then switched off, and the power consumption is recorded.

The Lelit Mara X is the only machine in the test with an ECO mode. More and more machines are being built with Eco mode. The Lelit Mara X's ECO mode kicks in after 30 minutes and stops the active heating of the boiler. This can be somewhat annoying in everyday use if you just happen to miss the 30-minute window. This is one reason why we can't imagine using the Lelit Mara X as a training machine in our home barista courses .

Interestingly, despite heating up several times, the machine doesn't consume any more power than other machines. The insulated boiler contributes significantly to preventing a significant drop in temperature, so the boiler still maintains a sufficient temperature after two hours. In fact, the machine was ready to use again after just five minutes (it normally takes 25 minutes to heat up). Over the course of the test, the Lelit Mara X's power efficiency improved steadily.

Furthermore, the Xenia Espresso and the BZ10 , both machines that do NOT have the classic Faema E61 brewing group with the circulating thermosiphon principle, perform well. Both machines have electrically heated brewing heads. From an energy-saving perspective, this demonstrates the potential of this principle. The Xenia Espresso also demonstrates that a suitable brewing head does not compromise temperature consistency. Machines with large boilers and those without insulation perform particularly poorly.

Milk foam and foaming ability and cappuccino power

Dual-boiler espresso machines are distinguished from single-boiler models by the ability to dispense espresso and froth milk simultaneously. We compared how quickly the milk heats up, how much power each machine delivers when frothing the 0.6-liter carafe, and how the frothing feels overall.

Michel Aeschbacher clamped the espresso and started the brewing process. After 10 seconds of operation, he briefly vented the condensation from the milk lance. After about 17 seconds, we started the frothing process.

In our direct comparison of the machines, we also gained new insights. The displayed boiler pressure is not a direct representation of the force exerted on the milk lance. Some machines seemed rather weak when frothing despite displaying +1 bar, while other espresso machines still delivered a decent amount of pressure at 0.8 bar.

Regardless of the pressure, some machines heat the milk faster than others. Essentially, this allows for longer frothing before the milk becomes too hot. This allows for a longer pulling and rolling phase, which tends to lead to an advantage—especially for latte art beginners—namely, more time. The ideal performance is powerful pressure combined with slow heating.

The foaming ability in direct comparison

The Rocket Appartamento froths with plenty of power. It's a joy to froth, creates a smooth swirl throughout the carafe, and yet doesn't heat the milk too quickly. Great for beginners and professionals alike.

The Lelit Mara X is less powerful than the Appartamento. However, the pressure it generates is perfectly suitable for frothing. At the same time, it heats the milk relatively slowly. It's quite good for beginners.

The ACM Homey's milk lance delivers real power. It froths up quickly and produces hot foam. It takes a bit of practice.

The Bezzera BZ10 also has a lot of power and easily circulates the milk, even if you can't find the perfect spot in the jug. It's ideal for frothing, both for ambitious beginners and professionals.

The Elba 1 from 969.coffee also delivers solid performance. Michel's comment: "It heats up perhaps a little faster and has less pressure at the same time. But that's more of a feeling." Overall, it's good, and we have nothing to complain about.

The Bezzera Magica also performs well. Plenty of power and a smooth roll are guaranteed. It also warms up quite quickly.

Frothing milk at the same time as making a cup is not that easy with the Xenia.

We studied the Xenia Espresso the most when it came to milk frothing. Even in our first test, it had difficulty brewing and frothing simultaneously. The Xenia has two modes: the classic espresso mode, which delivers a very consistent temperature and correspondingly good espressos, and a reheat mode. If you push the start button to the right during brewing, the espresso mode starts. Pushing the button to the left activates the Xenia's reheat mode during the espresso brewing process, thus stabilizing the pressure in the boiler.

In espresso mode, the pressure in the boiler dropped below 0.5 bar. This made frothing milk difficult, if not nearly impossible. The milk couldn't be properly circulated, leaving many large bubbles on top.

In post-heat mode, the pressure is more stable and no longer drops below 0.5 bar. This makes frothing easier. Compared to the other machines tested, the frothing performance is still at the lower end of the chart. However, the manufacturer is constantly working on workarounds and is very close to the user community. If frothing milk is more important to you than espresso performance, you can improve the settings by updating the firmware. However, we think it's more sensible to wait longer after brewing an espresso so that the pressure in the boiler stabilizes. This significantly improves the milk frothing performance, although it's not great.

The Profitec Pro 500 has significantly less power than the other Faema E61 brewing groups. Michel compares the frothing behavior with the Xenia button combination on the left (post-heat mode). Interestingly for us: the displayed pressure in the boiler remains high. However, we hardly notice any pressure in the carafe.

Michel has fun frothing milk with the Quick Mill Rubino . A nice rolling phase, plenty of circulation. This is how you make great milk foam.

At the top end of the scale, the Rocket Mozzafiato Cronometro R really gets going. The foaming is powerful, but also quite fast. Definitely interesting for ambitious users.

The ECM Manufacture Mechaninka V Slim delivers solid foam performance. "Not much, not a little," Michel summarizes the foaming.

The Quick Mil Andreja Premium PID ranks at the bottom of the table, alongside Xenia and Profitec Pro. The pressure is too low to fully circulate the milk. Since we're already at the upper limit with the brewing temperature, we can't increase the pressure in the boiler any further.

How is milk foamed?

In the first phase of frothing, we bring temperature and volume to the milk. Air is incorporated, and bubbles form. This part of the frothing process is called the drawing phase.

In the second and subsequent rolling phases, the resulting bubbles are broken down, and the milk foam becomes creamy, silky, and glossy. This consistency is ideal for pouring latte art onto a cappuccino.

Temperature consistency in the reference and from brewing to brewing

To brew excellent espresso, consistent temperature during the brewing phase is essential. Phillipp Schallberger and Michel Aeschbacher have highlighted this in an article and video . In their comparative test, they recommend an average brewing temperature of 93 degrees Celsius. At temperatures of 88 degrees Celsius, the coffees tasted unpleasantly sour, bitter, and had an astringent aftertaste. Channeling also increased. At temperatures of 96 degrees Celsius, the bitterness was overwhelming, and the acidity was no longer integrated. The texture decreased, although the concentration of dissolved coffee particles ( TDS, strength ) increased.

As part of our series of tests, we examined two things.

1. Consistency in the extraction. We recorded how much the temperature deviated consistently during an extraction from the first to the last second. As a sample extraction, we examined the second of five extractions.
2. Suitable for families, shared apartments, and catering. If you only want one espresso, you're less dependent on the third and fourth espresso still being at the target temperature. However, if a larger household makes several espressos in a row in the morning, maintaining a consistent temperature over several shots is crucial. It's also important to reassure the user. Constantly fluctuating temperature can be unsettling during brewing.

How constant does the temperature remain over 25 seconds?

To measure consistency throughout the brewing time, we compared the temperature at three temperature points and looked at the difference after 5 seconds, after 13 seconds and after 22 seconds.

In the first few seconds, the coffee powder is soaked and the actual brewing temperature at the sensor must first be reached.

Overall, it can be said that almost all machines deliver amazingly consistent temperature throughout the brewing time. The Rocket Appartamento deserves special mention, with a fluctuation of only 0.17 degrees between seconds 5 and 22. The Bezzera Magica follows suit with a difference of -0.18 degrees. The Xenia (switch on the right), the Rocket Mozzafiato , the Elba 1, the Quick Mill Rubino , and the ACM Homey also deliver good results, with fluctuations of less than 0.5 degrees in the extraction. This is sensational and much better than we would have expected just a few months ago.

The Quick Mill Andreja (0.53), the ECM Manufacture Mechanika V Slim (0.87), and the Lelit Mara X (0.89) also deliver good results. The Bezzera BZ10 achieves a value of 1.02, and the Profitec Pro 500 -1.44—all perfectly acceptable. Regarding the Profitec Pro 500, it should be noted that this drop in temperature only occurs at the very end of the extraction process, when not much essential material is extracted from the coffee grounds anyway. It may be that this drop in temperature at the end can even have a positive effect on some coffees.

Important note: We used the second espresso for the measurements. We recommend using the first shot to thoroughly heat the portafilter and rinse the shower head to remove any residue from the cleaning powder.

The measurements were taken after adjusting the temperature on the machines. One real criticism is that some espresso machines were delivered with an insufficient brewing temperature. While a PID control is relatively easy to adjust yourself, even at home you don't know exactly what temperature you'll end up with, we had to adjust the pressure and thus the temperature on the Bezzera BZ 10, Bezzera Magica, and ACM Homey using the pressure switch. We recommend purchasing these machines exclusively from a local dealer and having them guarantee that the temperature has been checked on-site!

Constancy over 5 payments

"Who needs five shots?" some of you might rightly say. That's 10 espressos, after all. Yes, but...

Do you even know what temperature you're at right now when it's constantly rising and falling?! The Rocket Appartamento is a good example. The second brew was almost perfect in terms of consistency and temperature. While the first brew had an average temperature of 93.98 degrees, brew number five averaged only 90.32 degrees. This puts the Rocket in the middle of the pack among dual-circuit brewers. It's clearly more of a machine for two or three brews, and one that needs to be learned and understood.

In comparison, when the cover is moved to the right, the Xenia resembles a straight line that increases in temperature by just 0.88 degrees over 5 covers.

The Rocket Mozzafiato delivers even more consistent coffee, with a temperature drop of 0.47 degrees. However, we have another, significant criticism with the Rocket Mozzafiato. At the highest boiler temperature, namely 124 degrees on the PID control, the machine only delivered 90.48 degrees in the first shot. That's definitely too cold. Since there's no thermostat – instead, it uses a PID control with a sensor – we couldn't increase the temperature ourselves, which compromised the quality of the espresso. Too much acidity – not tasty!

In terms of consistency across multiple covers, these three machines are unparalleled. Following them, with just over two degrees of variation, are the BZ10 , the Bezzera Magica at -2.12, and the ECM Mechanika V Slim at -2.21 degrees.

The ACM Homey (3.28), the Andreja (-2.33), and the Appartamento (-3.65) rank in the middle of the pack. The Lelit Mara X performs worst in both switch positions (steam and brew mode).

The Profitec Pro 500 , the Quick Mill Rubino and the Elba 1 also don't perform well.

The performance of the Lelit Mara X, in particular, is obviously problematic, especially since it performs so well in many other categories. It's worth getting to know this machine, and other machines that lose heat, very well to get the most out of them.

If you buy one of the constant machines like the Xenia , the Mozzafiato or the Bezzera Magica , you know what you are getting and can find the right temperature with less effort.

Heating time of the espresso machine

The heat-up time of an espresso machine can sometimes determine how long you stay awake or asleep in the morning. That's why it's important! Bad news: if you're waiting next to the espresso machine for your first shot, you shouldn't buy a dual-boiler machine. Unfortunately, we can't give you the all-clear. No machine heats up significantly faster than the magical 25-minute mark. Sorry!

The Xenia Espresso is closest to a reasonable brewing temperature after 18 minutes. However, even then, we measured a temperature of only 88 degrees Celsius, which isn't particularly tasty. If you're really serious about your first espresso, wait 25 minutes. Our Xenia model has a heating element built into the brewing group. You can also insert a second element, which should speed things up.

If we can test this at some point, we will add it here.

Otherwise, our conclusion regarding the heat-up time is this: Wait 25 minutes, set a timer, or buy a thermoblock. With dual-circuit machines, it takes time for the boiler and brewing group to really reach the right temperature. If that stresses you out, then this isn't the right machine for enjoyment.

Other tested dual-circuit systems

Stone Espresso - Article and Video

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