Since it uses many of the same components as the Linea, you can expect the same longevity if you’re diligent about it.Īs with the commercial model, it’s equipped with a 3-way solenoid valve, so your pucks will be dry and comfortable to knock into a knock box. The cleaning and maintenance of the La Marzocco Linea Mini are straightforward. The stainless steel portafilters with quick-release spouts and baskets and ergonomic handles are based on those used in the Strada line, and barista lights come on automatically when you slide the paddle. The attention to detail in the design and features of the Linea Mini is impressive. This is a sturdy and robust machine that is NSF rated for cafe use. Many of the exterior and interior components are the same ones found on La Marzocco’s commercial machines, and it feels that way. While the aesthetics might be divisive (it’s not that much of a classic unlike the Lelit Bianca), the build quality is universally approved. It’s certainly a departure from the “chrome box” look familiar to many prosumer machines. The industrial look of the La Marzocco Linea Mini, available in six colors, is designed to mimic the original Linea, and how you feel about it is a matter of personal taste. Here’s our La Marzocco GS3 review for more details. ![]() However, unlike La Marzocco’s GS3 model, there is no option for incorporating cold water to adjust the water temperature. There is also a hot water tap, which produces a substantial flow for making tea or an Americano. Especially if you’re interested in mastering latte art. If you plan to make a lot of lattes and cappuccinos this could be a decisive factor ( 3). I do use a commercial machine every day, and I just find this to be a much drier, beautiful design for me to make perfect silky milk. It’s one of my favorite steamers on all the machines. Many agree that the milk frothing on the Linea Mini is on par with that of the La Marzocco Strada, their top-of-the-line model that retails at upwards of 4 times the cost! Here’s our La Marzocco Strada review if you want to know more. Professional baristas accustomed to commercial espressso machines have been INCREDIBLY IMPRESSED. The commercial-style steam wand, which is the same one found on the original Linea ( 2), and tremendous steam pressure are two of the most talked-about aspects of the Linea Mini. You use two knobs to control steam pressure and brew pressure. There’s a red light that serves as a temperature indicator, and a blue light provides the status of the water reservoir. The rest of the interface is very straightforward. Without being able to set a specific temperature, trial and error is the only real way to dial in the shot, which can be time-consuming if you regularly change beans. Though some users prefer the intuitive feel of the knob, most find the system a bit cumbersome. ![]() The brew temperature is PID controlled, but a knob sets it on the machine’s side rather than a digital display. The paddle acts as a simple on/off switch, and the 1-second low-pressure pre-infusion is preprogrammed. ![]() It’s very smooth, with no jamming or sticking issues. To control water flow, you use a manual brew paddle on the grouphead, a lovely tactile way of feeling the shot. Some die-hard espresso fans might regret the loss of control, while others will enjoy the ease of use. But some design decisions by La Marzocco have simplified its operation. The La Marzocco Linea Mini is a semi-automatic espresso machine, which means user skill is a part of the equation. It also allows this machine to be plumped directly into a water line, handy in high-volume situations. The rotary pump is more than powerful enough for the requisite 9 bars of pressure and is pleasantly quiet during operation. The steam boiler takes about 30 minutes to come to temperature and stabilize. For example, you probably want a higher extraction temperature for a light roast coffee than a dark roast ( 1). It’s also quick and easy to flush if you want to change brew temperature using the PID controller. The small brew boiler is advantageous because it heats quickly, in just 5 to 10 minutes. Inside, there are two stainless steel boilers: a large 118-ounce steam boiler and a surprisingly small 6-ounce brew boiler. The La Marzocco Linea Mini measures only 14” x 21” x 15” (W x D x H), which is impressive given its capabilities.
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