Whether you’re just starting out in the world of home-coffee-making or you’re a full-blown barista, a quality, reliable espresso machine is essential. That’s why we’ve compared two similar, top-of-the-line models – the Lelit Bianca and the Profitec Pro 700 – so that you know exactly what you’re getting for your money.
Overview of Lelit Bianca
The Lelit Bianca is a semi-automatic espresso machine that is meant to be placed on the countertop. It features advanced temperature control and pressure gauges, allowing the user to have more insight over the brewing conditions, while yet providing the convenience of a semi-automatic machine. The Bianca operates with a thermo-compensated E61 brew group, meaning that it maintains an optimal range of temperature consistency. This, in turn, lets your espresso be extracted under steady temperature every time for maximum flavor and body.
Additionally, the Bianca boasts an in-built PID controller which monitors and automatically adjusts the temperature for optimal extraction. This can be especially handy for those who want to fine-tune the pressure and temperature for an even more customized espresso making experience. Speaking of customization, the Bianca can also be equipped with an optional Turbosteam wand for manually creating microfoam that is perfect for preparing drinks such as cappuccinos and lattes.
The Bianca also features a hot water outlet, allowing you to make tea or hot chocolate with ease. The machine is also equipped with a cup warmer, so you can keep your cups warm while you brew your espresso. The Lelit Bianca is a great choice for those who want to enjoy the convenience of a semi-automatic machine, while still having the ability to customize their espresso making experience.
Overview of Profitec Pro 700
The Profitec Pro 700 is a dual boiler espresso machine meant to sit on the countertop. Much like its counterpart, it features advanced temperature control and pressure gauges, allowing the user to have more insight on the brewing conditions. However, the Profitec Pro 700 offers a few more intricate features such as an integrated brew temperature control system and a pressure profiling system. The brew temperature control system allows users to precisely control the brew temperature over a range of set points, enabling absolute consistency for coffee extraction.
The pressure profiling system enables users to manually adjust the pre-infusion pressure on each shot from start to finish. This allows for incredibly fine-tuned control over the flavor of your coffee by dialing in specific profiles with custom pre-infusion times and pressures. In addition to this, the Pro 700 offers two separate boilers which can be used simultaneously with total freedom, so you can easily brew espresso and steam milk for cappuccinos at the same time.
Build Quality & Design
In terms of design and build quality, both models are comparable. The Lelit Bianca has an aesthetic design with stainless steel panels and manual knobs finished with chrome accents. It has a mid-sized footprint that operates with just a single steam wand and lever operated brewing group. On the other hand, the Profitec Pro 700 features a more contemporary design with its sleek brushed stainless steel exterior and dual boilers which lend it an overall sense of modernity. This model has a larger frame and includes more options like adjustable hot water spout and steaming knobs.
Ease of Use and Maintenance
In terms of ease of use, both machines are relatively easy to operate. The Bianca has an intuitive lever-operated brewing group which allows users to easily control coffee extraction and pressure. Its large backlit display also ensures users can quickly view the various functions. On the other hand, the Profitec Pro 700 has an LCD screen that gives users access to additional features like its programmable pre-infusion timer and steaming knobs for fine tuning water flow rate. Maintenance wise, both machines require regular backflushing, descaling and filter exchanges.
Brewing Capabilities & Controls
When it comes to brewing capabilities, both machines offer advanced features allowing users to experiment with water temperature, pre-infusion time, and pressure profiling. However, the Profitec Pro 700 takes it one step further with its programmable pre-infusion timer and dual boilers which allow users to manipulate these factors with greater precision. Aside from that, both machines are capable of producing 1 or 2 espresso shots at a time, depending on user’s preference.
Price and Value for Money
The Lelit Bianca comes in at a price point of $1599 while the Profitec Pro 700 comes in at $2699. Although the Pro 700 costs significantly more than its competitor, it does come with some extra bells and whistles not found in the Bianca such as its programmable pre-infusion timer and dual boilers. Thus in terms of value for money, both machines offer reliable performance for their respective price points.
Final Analysis and Recommendation
Both the Lelit Bianca and Profitec Pro 700 are great options for those who are looking to invest in an espresso machine that can offer reliable performance combined with convenience. The Bianca serves as an ideal choice for those who are looking for performance combined with an intuitive interface, while the Profitec Pro 700 offers an enhanced range of features such as its programmable pre-infusion timer and dual boilers for those who are seeking even more control over their coffee.
Overall, no matter which machine you choose, with proper maintenance your espresso should be tasting great in no time!
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