DON’T DRAG IT! 🥲 Those darn feet. What do you think of the Mara X?! What would you choose in this price bracket?! Be sure to leave a like if you found this video helpful at all! I'd truly appreciate it.
I've had mine for almost 3 weeks, and lord do I love it. Yeah it's not as flashy as the Bianca, but it's also much smaller, which is critical in my New York City kitchen with limited counter space and a fiancee who's already putting up with enough of my espresso habit as is. Also we only make a cappuccino each in the morning, so a double boiler is kinda wasted on me. Flow control seems like a cool feature down the road, but the MaraX does a great job on its own. Also I cannon recommend the OPV mod enough. It saves a TON of water. I used to empty my drip tray every day. Great video!
Great review, Kyle. Thanks for the video! This is a tough call for me. I think I’d pick the Breville Dual Boiler at this price point. Specifically: -Dual boiler -More precise temp control that I can see -Availability of after market modifications that I can do (pressure profiling, etc.) That said, the aesthetics and probably overall build quality of the Mara X are better, I think. And the look/stability of that E61 group head just looks so cool.
I'm pretty set on the X for my next machine. I just ordered a Gaggia Classic pro to play around with and get my technique down. I know the resale value is decent so I dont mind losing some money to learn on a cheaper machine. Then I will eventually move onto the X. I've always dreamt of the Linea Mini but for my use case I dont think it makes sense. Was also flirting with the idea of a Lucca A53 mini and Astra pro. Not a fan of the A53 portafilter size and am I the only one that thinks the Astra is a ugly ass machine? LOL
@@jeffthomas912 The Breville absolutely on paper has better features. But there's just something so satisfying about pulling that lever and watching the pressure ramp up. It's just a gorgeous machine. Don't get me wrong, the Breville has much more adjustability, but it's also buttons and plastic. The MaraX is built like a tank, and I just love pulling a shot in the morning. But either machines are pretty great, and both have fans that will vouch for either one.
@@ChristopherMichaelR I had a Gaggia Classic for 8 years and I love it...it's a great machine to learn on, and I wound up getting a really good price very quickly when I went to sell it. That being said, the MaraX is just a whole different league. I couldn't be happier with either machine.
Hello Xris, I want to buy a Rocket Appartamento and you are a reference on this machine, I love the aesthetics of the Rocket, but do you think the Mara X is better?
@@billrobinson06 if you’re asking me, that comes down to what you prefer! But I truly believe the Mara X has fantastic tech, stainless steel boilers and smaller size. But some love the rocket branding and design too. 🙂
@@KyleRowsell Yeah I first started getting into the idea of buying the R. Appartamento before I discovered the Lelit Mara X. After reviewing them both without any brand based bias I couldn't see any reason to choose the Rocket over the Lelit. So now a lovely Mara X is on my counter top. Love it.
I upgraded from Gaggia Classic to Mara X and never looked back I have it on smart plug to turn on remotely or setup times thru Alexa the only upgrades so far are bottomless portafilter and group head thermometer Great video
Hi Todd. I was wondering how accurate an E61 thermometer can be as for the reading when you cannot compare the results with a digital PID screen. Is the result you see on that thermometer EXACTLY the one from the brew water???
Great review !!! This is the way to do reviews - showing the features without being blinded by the "low" price. I wish James was making his reviews like that, not looking only at the price tag !
Great video. Very objective and spot on. I did a ton of research a year ago and bought one. VERY happy overall. The shots that I have pulled have been great from the getgo. I'm working on my latte art now and am getting better at it. I did change the steam wand by removing the no burn sleeve and swapping out the two-hole tip for a single hole one from Bezzera. MUCH better steam pressure now!
I was torn on this and the Elizabeth, really thought these were the final two in my decision making.. then I found out about the Bezzera BZ 13 DE PID.. It has a PID like Elizabeth, HX temp stability like Mara X, a functional cup warmer like MaraX, 2 shot timers like Elizabeth, quicker warm-up than Elizabeth, powerful steam, easier maintenance than Mara X because no E61, large boiler like MaraX, and way more beautiful than both IMO (especially Elizabeth). I can't believe I didn't know about it until recently. It matches or outperforms my favorite features from both and leaves out what's less important to me. Of course I'd like preinfusion but I'm willing to sacrifice that. The OPV is really easy to access and adjust, and it's NSF and ETL certified so it's recognized for being able to handle the load of a small cafe or restaurant... It's not even close, best machine under $2k USD imo.
As a beginner I find more interesting (in the same price range), the Lelit PL92T. It has the PID , on front, well placed and it has a clear use. And it seems, from what I have been reading that Dual Boiler at home tends to have more stable temperature profile given the fact that, using it daily, I may brew five consectuive shots as much. One thing I just do not know yet is the difference between the group head E61 type and the "ring type". Thanks for making this videos, they are fantastic, helpful and so entertaining. Keep it up! Saludos desde España!
Great video, actually have been deciding on my upgrade from gaggia classic pro and looked into lelit Bianca, profitec drive, and linea micra. Then came across marax and boom- all stars aligned.
Watching this while drinking a double pulled from my MaraX. :) It's a fantastic machine that I love. It gets even better when you add on the flow control paddle bringing it that much closer to the Bianca.
The skills that went into making this video are on a different level. I currently have a lelit Anna and probably won’t upgrade for a year or two, but I know for sure that the next one will be a lelit too, most probably a maraX. It is just too beautiful!
I own the older less feature rich Mara Pl62 since 2018 and it's a rock solid machine. Lelit tends to offer more features than similarly priced machines and besides the price the Mara is one of the smallest fully featured E61 machine which amazing for small kitchens like mine
Great review Kyle … had this for 5 weeks now and love it. Upgrades based on your Bianca video…IMS shower screen, cafelat gasket, and ims baskets. How did you turn off your standby mode?
From the MaraX Extended Guide: "The Standby is normed by an EU directive for this type of coffee machine, but if you want, you can disable this function, below the procedure: 1. Turn off the machine (main switch 8). 2. Lift the coffee group lever (14). 3. Turn on the machine (main switch 8). 4. If the standby function is on, after 5 seconds the frame of the on/ off switch (8) starts flashing (1on - 1off) and the status changes to “standby OFF” 5. If the standby function is off, after 5 seconds, all lights flash to confirm the switch to active standby. 6. Then switch off and on the machine to save the settings"
Have you ever looked into the Quick Mill Carola? PID, auto shot timer, programmable eco mode, optional flow control, all for about $1200. I know I'm not the only one out there with no interest in milk drinks, and I felt like I was going to have to suck it up and pay for options I would never use. Found the Carola by accident, and love it. I think it deserves more attention.
Great video and validation on my MaraX purchase a few months ago. 😀 I love my MaraX! I am looking at doing some mods such as the OPV draining back into the water tank and getting the Bianca's flow control paddle. Any other mods you would suggest or hear of?
I picked up a Mara x just under a year ago and have been in love with it. It does everything I need it to. You’re complaints are spot on though. I did know this drawbacks before purchasing and am totally ok with them. Also as far as height, it definitely is tall in terms of the overall size of the machine but I do believe (may be wrong) when I was looking up dimensions it was still shorter than the apartamento. I’ve been hoping you would eventually review this and I don’t know how I didn’t catch the video when it first came out. Keep up the great reviews!
Stunning production as always, the intro especially was 👌. As someone not familiar with this tier of espresso machines you made it super clear as to why it is how much and the pros and cons about it. RIP to the countertop 😅
Thanks Kyle for the video, it's probably the best review of that machine I've seen across YT since I've been doing very extensive research on that model! You're one of the very few to realize the EXTREME importance and advantages this unique Dual PID patent from Lelit is over any other more expensive HX machines. It's really the main feature that sets it appart, then the compact size yet still 1.8L while most others like the (Profitec 500) are much bigger for the same boiler size somehow... Much more silent pump, faster heat up time than any HX E61, good look, lower price, dual gauges... That's all a added bonus but the only "main" reason I'm buying the MaraX for my girlfriend this Christmas over any other HX is the brew priority switch! I find the Elizabeth so ugly, bulky, no possibility of Flow Control later on, less study and available parts, couldn't care less about shot time buttons. The MaraX has such a good and slow mechanical pre-infusion that it kind of defeat the advantage of having a pre-infusion control on the Elizabeth, so then it's just the cool fact of seeing the actual temp but seriously... Just use the switch according to roast level then forget it. No one can notice the difference between 95F and 94C or even 93C between 2 cups imo. The only thing I wish you showed in the video is how to LOWER the pump pressure as it's so retarded Lelit put it so high and wrong at factory default. Hell even the Bianca V3 I just received this week was still stock at 10.5Bar like wtf?! That's unacceptable when you pay that much for a machine or even just 2000$CAD.
Thanks for the video. James H noted the issue with the feet as well. Two greats both tore the feet off. I was choosing this but went last week with the Vivaldi mini by La Spaziale.
Have you got the Vivaldi yet? I considered this machine, did an espresso course on the bigger version and it looks interesting. 53mm portafilter is a slight put off though
Got this machine. It's a beauty. And I personally don't miss any digital display. I like the look of a machine that I will probably have no problem in the future with having it repaired.
Great review. I bought the Mara X regardless of the compromises. I live by myself so I am only making coffee just for me, most of the time. I upgraded from a Sage (Breville) Bambino Plus and the step up is amazing. But the FEET. Completely agree! I am currently living in a rented house, with a small kitchen, and there are very few places I can put the Mara. The landlord has low kitchen cabinets and I have to put the Mara under one of the cabinets, meaning i have to 'slide' the Mara out from underneath each time I want to refill the water. Pain. In. The. Ass :)
Hmmm ... I have low units too, but would love this machine. I understand it's a pain to move it to fill the tank but ... is it doable? Your post caught my eye, as I would be upgrading from the Sage Bambino Plus (which, though it's a good machine, definitely has its drawbacks),
@@martyhopkirk6826 I would say - it depends where you decide to locate the machine. I am currently in rented property, with a small kitchen, so I am limited to where I can put the machine. Unfortunately the Lelit is quite heavy so it's very difficult to lift (think holding a car battery at arms length for a few seconds), so I have no choice but to either drag it or 'walk' it from underneath the overhead cupboard. It is do-able and I don't regret buying the Lelit. My fear is the rubber feet will eventually wear or pop out from underneath, which would be a real pain in a**. I imagine lots of machines will have a similar challenge of filling from the top, although have seen some machines are now fitted with small rollers/wheels, which is a brilliant idea! *cna't remember which models have this. I hope this helps!
Thanks so much for responding: appreciated! Yeah, there would be nowhere for me to put it except under units. Changing the units isn’t an option, especially as I’m the only coffee drinker in the house! Looks like it might be hard to walk it out all the time: maybe it could get creative with siphoning water into it! Size is one reason I got the Bambino Plus: I can easily hook the tank off the back and move it out for filling. But it’s a limited machine, and has developed some annoying glitches.
Doing a bit of research, lots of people seem to suggest furniture sliders under the feet of espresso machines for people in our rather cramped situation! Might be worth a look ....
@@martyhopkirk6826 Might be late to this, but I had the same problem. I place mine on a thin wooden board - basically a chopping board - which can then slide the machine out so I can access the water tank.
Seems like they all need 1 3/4 to 2 full anti-clockwise turns on the opv to get to perfect pressure on the Mara X, also be careful of the drip tray edges can be very sharp. VST basket is another must.
Thinking about this machine to have small scale espresso machine in out home wares store, would be very small volume 10-15 cups a day max. Would you think this machine would be ok for that or would be really pushing it to its limit? Thanks!
If you don't like 9 bar, all you have to do is lower it, you regulate the pressure yourself, of course you have to open the machine, but the option is there quite easily to access! Ideally, of course, it would have been with an adjustment from the outside, hopefully it will come in v3!
Great video Kyle! Thanks for validating my purchase from earlier in the spring 😂. I agree, Edika is a great merchant, so cool that they sponsored you! I really wish Lelit had made a steam boost button for coffee priority mode. Luckily when you brew a few quick milk drinks in succession, I don’t tend to run into steam issues. it’s just the first coffee after the machine wakes up, but aside from that my steam experience seems good. That being said I haven’t had a chance to play with something like your Bianca, so maybe I just don’t know what I’m missing!
Hey Kyle! Love your videos, also that intro here was crazy good. I was really curious how you'd compare something like this against the La Pavoni Europiccola. Similarly curious how you'd compare against the higher end models that have flow control. Had one for about a year and love the fully manual feeling of it, curious how you think it stacks up against other machines. Considering a potential upgrade.
Hey bud, so finally bit the bullet and got this great machine - reassured by your superb video. Loving the upgrade (from breville), BUT those bloody feet - despite being warned I somehow managed to scratch my surface... anyway I have already replaced them!
With what? I am wondering if I might buy this machine, but the feet I would like to replace right away. So if you have any suggestion, I would be happy to hear what you replaced them with.
I am thinking of purchasing an ECM Classika PID machine...same price range with a few more features...thought about how this machine compares to the Lelit Mara X? I am primarily focused on espresso and not steaming.
I start my timer at the start of the pump. Shots have tended to be 3-5 seconds longer on this machine than others without this feature with similar results.
Hello and thank you for the videos. I have a Rocket Appartamento and I prefer coffee (if milk drink, it is punctual). What do you recommend in terms of boiler pressure (0.8 or 1 or 1.1 bar)? Thanks for your help.
Maybe I missed it in the video. But do you have to manually turn the shot on and off? Or is there a certain timer that switched the shit off. I think it's really weird that you have to be careful and watch the timer on a scale to have your right espresso volume.
Great video again Kyle, when my double boiler machine broke, I didn’t want to spend more than 2,000, so a heat exchanger it had to be, the other thing I wanted is to be able to drive to the store if there was a problem, and the only machine that fitted all that was the Appartemento. Very happy with it, and now it has flow profile, but I think the Mara X would of been a good purchase also. Did I tell you about the flow profile…. Thanks Kyle 👍✌️
Moving a lever and twiddling knobs is much more involving then pressing buttons, a great size for small kitchens too. As feet screw in must be possible to change.
I think they basically made the three temperature setting option just so they don't cannibalize their sales of their higher end machines. If it's got a PID you should be able to set it to any temperature that you want.
Ya they definitely could have added a LLC display of they wanted but they chose not to as otherwise it would prolly have hurt a lot the sales of the Elizabeth which is like the only advantage it have.
Another great video 👏🏻 Love the production Kyle 🎥 I do have a question since I’m still kinda contemplating on getting MaraX or save a bit more and get the Bianca. Reasons being LCC and pressure profiling(for when I get there with my skills)… but then again I really really rarely do milk drinks… but I do want the e61 group head. Hence not the Elizabeth fan 😬 Would love your opinion on this hectic purchase decision 🙏🏻
The Bianca is pretty wonderful, but you could always just get the MARA X and add the flow profiling paddle. The temperature adjustment on the Mara is plenty for most people.
@@KyleRowsell would you then say the Bianca is an overkill since I’m not into milk drinks, or well double boilers in general? Price wise I’d be €500 eur off if I get the Mara X and add the pressure profiler, naked portafilter, wooden kit… and then I wonder if not just save a bit and get the bianca 🤷🏻♂️ But then again I make espresso 99% of the time, so don’t really care about the steam power.
Hi Kyle. Just wondering if you could provide some advice/guidance. I currently have a Breville Barista Express and have begun to make the move to upgrade my espresso capabilities. I just recently purchased a Turin D64 Gen 2 before I upgrade the actual espresso machine. I have been watching many videos about dual boilers vs heat exchange machines (the Mara X). My biggest concern is an ability to make many lattes/caps in a row and fast. My Barista Express just doesn’t give me that ability (brew and steam concurrently). Up until now, I would spend 30-45 minutes in front of the machine while everybody socialized in the living room. I pretty much have decided on the Profitec Move (the new version of the 400) but I still haven’t pulled the trigger. However, this Mara X V2 seems to do everything I want to evolve to but it doesn’t have the controllability of the Move. They are only a few hundred dollars apart (I am in Canada) from most sites I have visited. Do you have any recommendations? Thanks… Darrell.
Hello Kyle! Congrats for your baby! Excuse me sir, have you ever heard/tried the dual boiler breville machine? It's a similar price machine! Thanks a lot
Idk if you mentioned, does this machine use aluminium in the boiler or hose lines? Can aluminium be toxic when heated? How does this compare to the ECM Classika? Thank you for the reply
Hi Kyle, thanks for your review. Because of that, i purchased MaraX rather than the Apartamentto. And i am very extra careful with the bottom rubber base 😅 Planning to buy aftermarket naked portafilter but don't know how to choose that fits the machine. Are you able to share any thoughts or tips how i can choose the correct and compatible one? Cheers from Dubai
I agree that its a great-looking and has excellent functionality, but for the same money you can get the profitec go (which has its own short comings but were always making trade-offs in these machines) and address most of the features you're missing, did a lot of research and the Mara was one of the machines I considered but decided to go with the GO for all the reasons you bring up about Mara's shortcomings.
Hey Kyle, If you had the choice between the Lelit Mara and the Profitec 400, which one would you go for? Why would you choose one over the other? Great review of the Mara X
You are great! I can't believe you have this many subscribers with the unbelievable quality of your videos haha, in my mind I thought you had at least 100k
Awesome video as usual! I am definitely going to keep this machine under consideration for my next upgrade. Also, love that shirt bro, AOH is the best!
I would like to see a PID on Mara X too. I own a Lelit PL42 TEMD and clearly feel the convenience of having PID. Still wondering which machine to upgrade to. Silvia Pro?
Excellent review. You really showed it's strengths and small weaknesses.I love my Gaggia Classic. With a Settle 270 grinder I get great espresso. Other than greater consistency and incredible looks what will the Mara X give me?
As someone who went from a Gaggia to a Marax, the consistency is everything. The Gaggia Classic is phenomenal, don't get me wrong, but the Marax can just pull shot after shot and they're all dialed in in a way the GC never could.
Hi Kyle, i have a question. This machine auto pre-infusion or mechanical pre-infusion? I have V2 Mara X but the seller told me pull 1/2 to pre-infusion?
Hey great review. Looks like the powered button is just a button instead of a switch. Can this be kept on so that a smart outlet could be programmed to turn it on and off?
I think most dual boiler machines on 110-120v have brew boiler priority maybe heat exchangers don't usually since it's one boiler and hard to control brew temp pricely. I'm guessing they have a sensor at the brew head otherwise it's basically the same as a HX machine with a PID.
I bought a MaraX because of this video!! Haha over how many comparison between aesthetically gifted appartemento or Magica. Keeps going back to MaraX. Keep it going bro, 🙏🏻 Not sure till when itll get itchy for a Bianca 😂
So besides the build quality, Would you choose this one or the breville dual boiler. Same price range, build in control center customizable pre infusion One of the two wil come in my kitchen but wish one I don’t now yet, the Lamar has the build quality l, but the breville has the functionality and dual boiler
Hi Kyle. I really like your videos, your reviews. A while ago I was thinking to buy a Mara x and I change my mind and I wanted a Elisabeth and then I saw the new line of Expobar/Crem one to be more specific Crem One 2b ( I don't know if are familiar with this brand or if you can review one of this ) and I don't know what should do because here in Europe the you can find Crem one 2b at the same price as Elisabeth.
here in Europe we get the Mara X on 999 EURs (1200 USDs) and the Elizabeth on 1200 EURs (1450 USDs).. so considering the small gap between the Mara X and the Elizabeth.. which one is actually better? dual boiler on the Elizabeth or heat exchange and the E61 grouphead of the Mara X?
Great review. I still think the Mara x falls short on PID and shot timer... and steam pressure. I just changed my Lelit Victoria and ended up going to Rocket ... also because the drip tray grill cover rattled so much in the Vic, and the Mara x has the same
@@Superted7272 Indeed, tough call. The Bianca has an edge on value for money (dual boiler) but I think the shot profiling system makes it hard to replicate (or even remember) good shots. I believe profiling requires some "memory" system (R 9 One or Decent Espresso). In the end design was part of it also. I prefer the Rocket, ECM, Profitec aesthetics. Lelit's strength doesn't lie in design. I think the bubble wood feet and 70's retro basement wood paneling paddle don't do the machine justice. In the end it lives on the countertop for a long time...
I looked very closely at all the brands you mentioned and ended up choosing the ECM Synchronika with flow control. You just can't beat ECM or Profitec when it comes to solid build quality, plus their aesthetics are beautiful in my opinion. Couldn't be happier as it has performed very well for the year that I've had it.
I kind of like that it doesn't have digital interface. It feels more mehanical though it is not practical. I love design of it... Btw.. What is with F58 giveaway? I didn't find where to see the winner of it
![ILLSLICK X YOUNGOHM - We're The same [Official Video]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/yUJNkobYR0E/mqdefault.jpg)
DON’T DRAG IT! 🥲 Those darn feet. What do you think of the Mara X?! What would you choose in this price bracket?! Be sure to leave a like if you found this video helpful at all! I'd truly appreciate it.
I've had mine for almost 3 weeks, and lord do I love it. Yeah it's not as flashy as the Bianca, but it's also much smaller, which is critical in my New York City kitchen with limited counter space and a fiancee who's already putting up with enough of my espresso habit as is. Also we only make a cappuccino each in the morning, so a double boiler is kinda wasted on me. Flow control seems like a cool feature down the road, but the MaraX does a great job on its own.
Also I cannon recommend the OPV mod enough. It saves a TON of water. I used to empty my drip tray every day.
Great video!
Great review, Kyle. Thanks for the video!
This is a tough call for me. I think I’d pick the Breville Dual Boiler at this price point. Specifically:
-Dual boiler
-More precise temp control that I can see
-Availability of after market modifications that I can do (pressure profiling, etc.)
That said, the aesthetics and probably overall build quality of the Mara X are better, I think. And the look/stability of that E61 group head just looks so cool.
I'm pretty set on the X for my next machine. I just ordered a Gaggia Classic pro to play around with and get my technique down. I know the resale value is decent so I dont mind losing some money to learn on a cheaper machine. Then I will eventually move onto the X. I've always dreamt of the Linea Mini but for my use case I dont think it makes sense. Was also flirting with the idea of a Lucca A53 mini and Astra pro. Not a fan of the A53 portafilter size and am I the only one that thinks the Astra is a ugly ass machine? LOL
@@jeffthomas912 The Breville absolutely on paper has better features. But there's just something so satisfying about pulling that lever and watching the pressure ramp up. It's just a gorgeous machine. Don't get me wrong, the Breville has much more adjustability, but it's also buttons and plastic.
The MaraX is built like a tank, and I just love pulling a shot in the morning. But either machines are pretty great, and both have fans that will vouch for either one.
@@ChristopherMichaelR I had a Gaggia Classic for 8 years and I love it...it's a great machine to learn on, and I wound up getting a really good price very quickly when I went to sell it.
That being said, the MaraX is just a whole different league. I couldn't be happier with either machine.
if this video existed before I got the Rocket, I might've gone for this!
Totally! The rocket is wonderful, but this maraX really is a direct competitor and one rocket will likely need to respond to 🙂
Hello Xris, I want to buy a Rocket Appartamento and you are a reference on this machine, I love the aesthetics of the Rocket, but do you think the Mara X is better?
So would you get this or the apartamento?
@@billrobinson06 if you’re asking me, that comes down to what you prefer! But I truly believe the Mara X has fantastic tech, stainless steel boilers and smaller size. But some love the rocket branding and design too. 🙂
@@KyleRowsell Yeah I first started getting into the idea of buying the R. Appartamento before I discovered the Lelit Mara X. After reviewing them both without any brand based bias I couldn't see any reason to choose the Rocket over the Lelit. So now a lovely Mara X is on my counter top. Love it.
I upgraded from Gaggia Classic to Mara X and never looked back I have it on smart plug to turn on remotely or setup times thru Alexa the only upgrades so far are bottomless portafilter and group head thermometer
Great video
Hi Todd. I was wondering how accurate an E61 thermometer can be as for the reading when you cannot compare the results with a digital PID screen. Is the result you see on that thermometer EXACTLY the one from the brew water???
Great review !!! This is the way to do reviews - showing the features without being blinded by the "low" price. I wish James was making his reviews like that, not looking only at the price tag !
Glad you enjoyed it!
Great video. Very objective and spot on. I did a ton of research a year ago and bought one. VERY happy overall. The shots that I have pulled have been great from the getgo. I'm working on my latte art now and am getting better at it. I did change the steam wand by removing the no burn sleeve and swapping out the two-hole tip for a single hole one from Bezzera. MUCH better steam pressure now!
“I am that I am”. Love your shirt bro. Also, great review. I appreciate you.
I was torn on this and the Elizabeth, really thought these were the final two in my decision making.. then I found out about the Bezzera BZ 13 DE PID.. It has a PID like Elizabeth, HX temp stability like Mara X, a functional cup warmer like MaraX, 2 shot timers like Elizabeth, quicker warm-up than Elizabeth, powerful steam, easier maintenance than Mara X because no E61, large boiler like MaraX, and way more beautiful than both IMO (especially Elizabeth). I can't believe I didn't know about it until recently. It matches or outperforms my favorite features from both and leaves out what's less important to me. Of course I'd like preinfusion but I'm willing to sacrifice that. The OPV is really easy to access and adjust, and it's NSF and ETL certified so it's recognized for being able to handle the load of a small cafe or restaurant... It's not even close, best machine under $2k USD imo.
So what did you purchase eventually? How is the experience so far with the newly purchased expresso machine? Thank you very much in advance! 🙏🏻🙏🏻
Been pulling shot on this mara x for about a year.. super love it.. love the review n love the jacket most..
Thanks for the comment friend!
As a beginner I find more interesting (in the same price range), the Lelit PL92T. It has the PID , on front, well placed and it has a clear use. And it seems, from what I have been reading that Dual Boiler at home tends to have more stable temperature profile given the fact that, using it daily, I may brew five consectuive shots as much. One thing I just do not know yet is the difference between the group head E61 type and the "ring type".
Thanks for making this videos, they are fantastic, helpful and so entertaining. Keep it up!
Saludos desde España!
Thanks for the comment!
With the E61 you will be able to have flow control. That was one of the reasons I chose MaraX over Elizabeth.
Would to see a comparison of the Mara x with Bezzera BZ13
Great video, actually have been deciding on my upgrade from gaggia classic pro and looked into lelit Bianca, profitec drive, and linea micra. Then came across marax and boom- all stars aligned.
Yet another great video Kyle. Thanks for the insight on this machine!
Thanks for the comment josh!
Between you and James Hoffman, I can’t thank the two of you enough.
Watching this while drinking a double pulled from my MaraX. :) It's a fantastic machine that I love. It gets even better when you add on the flow control paddle bringing it that much closer to the Bianca.
Love it!
The skills that went into making this video are on a different level. I currently have a lelit Anna and probably won’t upgrade for a year or two, but I know for sure that the next one will be a lelit too, most probably a maraX. It is just too beautiful!
Thanks for noticing! And right on!
I own the older less feature rich Mara Pl62 since 2018 and it's a rock solid machine. Lelit tends to offer more features than similarly priced machines and besides the price the Mara is one of the smallest fully featured E61 machine which amazing for small kitchens like mine
No, you don't need this... You don't need this... You DON'T NEEEEED THIS
Dammit I want one!
Isn’t that always the struggle!
Great review Kyle … had this for 5 weeks now and love it. Upgrades based on your Bianca video…IMS shower screen, cafelat gasket, and ims baskets. How did you turn off your standby mode?
From the MaraX Extended Guide:
"The Standby is normed by an EU directive for this type of coffee machine, but if you want, you can disable this function, below the procedure:
1. Turn off the machine (main switch 8).
2. Lift the coffee group lever (14).
3. Turn on the machine (main switch 8).
4. If the standby function is on, after 5 seconds the frame of the on/ off switch (8) starts flashing (1on - 1off) and the status changes to “standby OFF”
5. If the standby function is off, after 5 seconds, all lights flash to confirm the switch to active standby.
6. Then switch off and on the machine to save the settings"
Didn't it come with IMS baskets included?
Have you ever looked into the Quick Mill Carola? PID, auto shot timer, programmable eco mode, optional flow control, all for about $1200. I know I'm not the only one out there with no interest in milk drinks, and I felt like I was going to have to suck it up and pay for options I would never use. Found the Carola by accident, and love it. I think it deserves more attention.
Put some felt on the rear feet so you can drag it, but remains stable while inserting the protafilter ;)
I’m so glad you got a sponsor! Keep up the great work, man
Thanks!
Diletta MIO with PIV is my machine. I had some issues with it but resolved it by flushing with Descal for the steamer. $1,350.00 at Seattle Coffee Co.
Great video! Thanks a lot for all the information and keep it up!
Thanks for watching!
Great video and validation on my MaraX purchase a few months ago. 😀 I love my MaraX! I am looking at doing some mods such as the OPV draining back into the water tank and getting the Bianca's flow control paddle. Any other mods you would suggest or hear of?
Thanks for the comment! Those mods will likely be plenty! The machine is great as is, so this will only make it better
I picked up a Mara x just under a year ago and have been in love with it. It does everything I need it to. You’re complaints are spot on though. I did know this drawbacks before purchasing and am totally ok with them. Also as far as height, it definitely is tall in terms of the overall size of the machine but I do believe (may be wrong) when I was looking up dimensions it was still shorter than the apartamento. I’ve been hoping you would eventually review this and I don’t know how I didn’t catch the video when it first came out. Keep up the great reviews!
Stunning production as always, the intro especially was 👌. As someone not familiar with this tier of espresso machines you made it super clear as to why it is how much and the pros and cons about it. RIP to the countertop 😅
Ah YES! Mission accomplished. Thank you for this comment! RIP Countertop. April 2021- May 2021.
Thanks Kyle for the video, it's probably the best review of that machine I've seen across YT since I've been doing very extensive research on that model! You're one of the very few to realize the EXTREME importance and advantages this unique Dual PID patent from Lelit is over any other more expensive HX machines. It's really the main feature that sets it appart, then the compact size yet still 1.8L while most others like the (Profitec 500) are much bigger for the same boiler size somehow... Much more silent pump, faster heat up time than any HX E61, good look, lower price, dual gauges... That's all a added bonus but the only "main" reason I'm buying the MaraX for my girlfriend this Christmas over any other HX is the brew priority switch!
I find the Elizabeth so ugly, bulky, no possibility of Flow Control later on, less study and available parts, couldn't care less about shot time buttons. The MaraX has such a good and slow mechanical pre-infusion that it kind of defeat the advantage of having a pre-infusion control on the Elizabeth, so then it's just the cool fact of seeing the actual temp but seriously... Just use the switch according to roast level then forget it. No one can notice the difference between 95F and 94C or even 93C between 2 cups imo.
The only thing I wish you showed in the video is how to LOWER the pump pressure as it's so retarded Lelit put it so high and wrong at factory default. Hell even the Bianca V3 I just received this week was still stock at 10.5Bar like wtf?! That's unacceptable when you pay that much for a machine or even just 2000$CAD.
Kyle just wanted to say thanks for the video, it’s one of the reasons that tipped me over to get a MaraX and a DF64 recently!
Thanks for the video. James H noted the issue with the feet as well. Two greats both tore the feet off. I was choosing this but went last week with the Vivaldi mini by La Spaziale.
Have you got the Vivaldi yet? I considered this machine, did an espresso course on the bigger version and it looks interesting. 53mm portafilter is a slight put off though
Got this machine. It's a beauty. And I personally don't miss any digital display. I like the look of a machine that I will probably have no problem in the future with having it repaired.
Great review. I bought the Mara X regardless of the compromises. I live by myself so I am only making coffee just for me, most of the time. I upgraded from a Sage (Breville) Bambino Plus and the step up is amazing.
But the FEET. Completely agree! I am currently living in a rented house, with a small kitchen, and there are very few places I can put the Mara. The landlord has low kitchen cabinets and I have to put the Mara under one of the cabinets, meaning i have to 'slide' the Mara out from underneath each time I want to refill the water. Pain. In. The. Ass :)
Hmmm ... I have low units too, but would love this machine. I understand it's a pain to move it to fill the tank but ... is it doable? Your post caught my eye, as I would be upgrading from the Sage Bambino Plus (which, though it's a good machine, definitely has its drawbacks),
@@martyhopkirk6826 I would say - it depends where you decide to locate the machine. I am currently in rented property, with a small kitchen, so I am limited to where I can put the machine. Unfortunately the Lelit is quite heavy so it's very difficult to lift (think holding a car battery at arms length for a few seconds), so I have no choice but to either drag it or 'walk' it from underneath the overhead cupboard. It is do-able and I don't regret buying the Lelit. My fear is the rubber feet will eventually wear or pop out from underneath, which would be a real pain in a**. I imagine lots of machines will have a similar challenge of filling from the top, although have seen some machines are now fitted with small rollers/wheels, which is a brilliant idea! *cna't remember which models have this. I hope this helps!
Thanks so much for responding: appreciated! Yeah, there would be nowhere for me to put it except under units. Changing the units isn’t an option, especially as I’m the only coffee drinker in the house! Looks like it might be hard to walk it out all the time: maybe it could get creative with siphoning water into it! Size is one reason I got the Bambino Plus: I can easily hook the tank off the back and move it out for filling. But it’s a limited machine, and has developed some annoying glitches.
Doing a bit of research, lots of people seem to suggest furniture sliders under the feet of espresso machines for people in our rather cramped situation! Might be worth a look ....
@@martyhopkirk6826 Might be late to this, but I had the same problem. I place mine on a thin wooden board - basically a chopping board - which can then slide the machine out so I can access the water tank.
Thank you, Sir, for an informative video and detailed 👍🏻
Keep up the good work!
Seems like they all need 1 3/4 to 2 full anti-clockwise turns on the opv to get to perfect pressure on the Mara X, also be careful of the drip tray edges can be very sharp. VST basket is another must.
Thanks for this comment! And we’ll said!
if you can compare between lelit marax and bezzera bz10 what would you pick?
Thinking about this machine to have small scale espresso machine in out home wares store, would be very small volume 10-15 cups a day max. Would you think this machine would be ok for that or would be really pushing it to its limit? Thanks!
Thanks. What think compare this to prolifictec 400?
Great review.
The let downs are mentioned as well.
How about an ECM Classika pid?
It looks a great machine to me.
If you don't like 9 bar, all you have to do is lower it, you regulate the pressure yourself, of course you have to open the machine, but the option is there quite easily to access!
Ideally, of course, it would have been with an adjustment from the outside, hopefully it will come in v3!
Great vid, and love your shirt
Thanks!!
I bought this machine at Edika! What a great service I had….. and good coffee !!!
The best!
great video and explanation...may I ask what the brand/model of that espresso cup is you used in the video? Thx!
Hi Kyle, love your channel! How do you think the Mara X compares to the ECM Classika PID?
Great video Kyle!
Thanks!
Great video Kyle! Thanks for validating my purchase from earlier in the spring 😂. I agree, Edika is a great merchant, so cool that they sponsored you!
I really wish Lelit had made a steam boost button for coffee priority mode. Luckily when you brew a few quick milk drinks in succession, I don’t tend to run into steam issues. it’s just the first coffee after the machine wakes up, but aside from that my steam experience seems good. That being said I haven’t had a chance to play with something like your Bianca, so maybe I just don’t know what I’m missing!
I came to YT to search for a review of this machine... then I spot you posted this video on my homepage. It was meant to be.
You're welcome :)
😍 Thank you for that Vid 🙏🏼 looks like i found my next espresso machine
Hey Kyle! Love your videos, also that intro here was crazy good. I was really curious how you'd compare something like this against the La Pavoni Europiccola. Similarly curious how you'd compare against the higher end models that have flow control. Had one for about a year and love the fully manual feeling of it, curious how you think it stacks up against other machines. Considering a potential upgrade.
Hey bud, so finally bit the bullet and got this great machine - reassured by your superb video. Loving the upgrade (from breville), BUT those bloody feet - despite being warned I somehow managed to scratch my surface... anyway I have already replaced them!
With what? I am wondering if I might buy this machine, but the feet I would like to replace right away. So if you have any suggestion, I would be happy to hear what you replaced them with.
I am thinking of purchasing an ECM Classika PID machine...same price range with a few more features...thought about how this machine compares to the Lelit Mara X? I am primarily focused on espresso and not steaming.
Great product review Kyle! Age old question for you, with a 10-12 sec pre-infusion when do you start your shot timer when dialing in your shots???
I start my timer at the start of the pump. Shots have tended to be 3-5 seconds longer on this machine than others without this feature with similar results.
hello do you think lelit mara x can be used in a small cafe like serving 30 to 80 cups?
Love my maraX
Hello and thank you for the videos.
I have a Rocket Appartamento and I prefer coffee (if milk drink, it is punctual). What do you recommend in terms of boiler pressure (0.8 or 1 or 1.1 bar)?
Thanks for your help.
great video kyle! im tempted :)
ty for the review. Can we limit the pump pressure 9 bar max ? I mean without hack or changing spirng etc..
Maybe I missed it in the video. But do you have to manually turn the shot on and off? Or is there a certain timer that switched the shit off. I think it's really weird that you have to be careful and watch the timer on a scale to have your right espresso volume.
Would you consider modifying the OPV to get to 9bars?
Very excited for this machine! Definetly adding it to my list of potential machines to buy!
Great video again Kyle, when my double boiler machine broke, I didn’t want to spend more than 2,000, so a heat exchanger it had to be, the other thing I wanted is to be able to drive to the store if there was a problem, and the only machine that fitted all that was the Appartemento. Very happy with it, and now it has flow profile, but I think the Mara X would of been a good purchase also. Did I tell you about the flow profile…. Thanks Kyle 👍✌️
Thanks for the comment friend!
thanks for the video
Would you chose this over the ascaso dream pid?
Moving a lever and twiddling knobs is much more involving then pressing buttons, a great size for small kitchens too. As feet screw in must be possible to change.
I think they basically made the three temperature setting option just so they don't cannibalize their sales of their higher end machines. If it's got a PID you should be able to set it to any temperature that you want.
Ya they definitely could have added a LLC display of they wanted but they chose not to as otherwise it would prolly have hurt a lot the sales of the Elizabeth which is like the only advantage it have.
Can you do manual pre infusion (Pre wetting ) on this machine?
Another great video 👏🏻 Love the production Kyle 🎥
I do have a question since I’m still kinda contemplating on getting MaraX or save a bit more and get the Bianca. Reasons being LCC and pressure profiling(for when I get there with my skills)… but then again I really really rarely do milk drinks… but I do want the e61 group head. Hence not the Elizabeth fan 😬
Would love your opinion on this hectic purchase decision 🙏🏻
The Bianca is pretty wonderful, but you could always just get the MARA X and add the flow profiling paddle. The temperature adjustment on the Mara is plenty for most people.
@@KyleRowsell would you then say the Bianca is an overkill since I’m not into milk drinks, or well double boilers in general? Price wise I’d be €500 eur off if I get the Mara X and add the pressure profiler, naked portafilter, wooden kit… and then I wonder if not just save a bit and get the bianca 🤷🏻♂️ But then again I make espresso 99% of the time, so don’t really care about the steam power.
Hi Kyle. Just wondering if you could provide some advice/guidance. I currently have a Breville Barista Express and have begun to make the move to upgrade my espresso capabilities. I just recently purchased a Turin D64 Gen 2 before I upgrade the actual espresso machine. I have been watching many videos about dual boilers vs heat exchange machines (the Mara X). My biggest concern is an ability to make many lattes/caps in a row and fast. My Barista Express just doesn’t give me that ability (brew and steam concurrently). Up until now, I would spend 30-45 minutes in front of the machine while everybody socialized in the living room. I pretty much have decided on the Profitec Move (the new version of the 400) but I still haven’t pulled the trigger. However, this Mara X V2 seems to do everything I want to evolve to but it doesn’t have the controllability of the Move. They are only a few hundred dollars apart (I am in Canada) from most sites I have visited. Do you have any recommendations? Thanks… Darrell.
Hello Kyle! Congrats for your baby! Excuse me sir, have you ever heard/tried the dual boiler breville machine? It's a similar price machine! Thanks a lot
I have and would love to cover it in a future video
Idk if you mentioned, does this machine use aluminium in the boiler or hose lines? Can aluminium be toxic when heated? How does this compare to the ECM Classika? Thank you for the reply
Hi Kyle, thanks for your review. Because of that, i purchased MaraX rather than the Apartamentto. And i am very extra careful with the bottom rubber base 😅 Planning to buy aftermarket naked portafilter but don't know how to choose that fits the machine. Are you able to share any thoughts or tips how i can choose the correct and compatible one? Cheers from Dubai
I agree that its a great-looking and has excellent functionality, but for the same money you can get the profitec go (which has its own short comings but were always making trade-offs in these machines) and address most of the features you're missing, did a lot of research and the Mara was one of the machines I considered but decided to go with the GO for all the reasons you bring up about Mara's shortcomings.
I have the same dilemma. Any update? Thanks
Hey Kyle, If you had the choice between the Lelit Mara and the Profitec 400, which one would you go for? Why would you choose one over the other? Great review of the Mara X
Can you put a standard 58 mm bottomless portafilter on it?
Good reviewer. Opv easily adjusted .
You are great! I can't believe you have this many subscribers with the unbelievable quality of your videos haha, in my mind I thought you had at least 100k
Ah thanks friend. Maybe someday… but for now I’m just happy to be here 🙂
@@KyleRowsell the right attitude!!
Hey Kyle,
really nice and content based review. Could you give me a hint, where I will find good looking Espresso glas? Thx in advance
Awesome video as usual! I am definitely going to keep this machine under consideration for my next upgrade. Also, love that shirt bro, AOH is the best!
Bro I love the Art of Homage hoodie! That's sick!
Always repping homie!
Which one do you recommend? Rocket Apartamentto or Mara x? Thanks!
Love the shirt brother ✝️
Thanks
Do you still recommend this in 2023 if I am looking for something with a smaller foot print than Bianca?
What’s your opinion on the ascaso dream PID?
I would like to see a PID on Mara X too. I own a Lelit PL42 TEMD and clearly feel the convenience of having PID. Still wondering which machine to upgrade to. Silvia Pro?
can i ask what is that glass you use on this, ie brand or link it is amazing
I enjoyed the video and your review on this machine, I’m going to recommend it to my co-worker, thanks
Thanks for watching!
Excellent review. You really showed it's strengths and small weaknesses.I love my Gaggia Classic. With a Settle 270 grinder I get great espresso. Other than greater consistency and incredible looks what will the Mara X give me?
The ability to steam milk on demand is a large one.
As someone who went from a Gaggia to a Marax, the consistency is everything. The Gaggia Classic is phenomenal, don't get me wrong, but the Marax can just pull shot after shot and they're all dialed in in a way the GC never could.
Even with the espresso there is a huge difference that the lelit mara x will give you
Hi Kyle, i have a question. This machine auto pre-infusion or mechanical pre-infusion? I have V2 Mara X but the seller told me pull 1/2 to pre-infusion?
When I eventually get mine back, i will install a flow control kit on it :)
Yes! That’ll be fun.
Hey great review. Looks like the powered button is just a button instead of a switch. Can this be kept on so that a smart outlet could be programmed to turn it on and off?
Yes it can!
That's awesome! This just moved onto my list of machines I'm considering for an upgrade. Thanks for the info.
Im thinking to buy either this Lara, appartamento, or bz10. Any thoughts??
BTW congrats on the new baby! I'm sure you're enjoying all that coffee now haah!
More than ever! I appreciate this!
I think most dual boiler machines on 110-120v have brew boiler priority maybe heat exchangers don't usually since it's one boiler and hard to control brew temp pricely. I'm guessing they have a sensor at the brew head otherwise it's basically the same as a HX machine with a PID.
I bought a MaraX because of this video!! Haha over how many comparison between aesthetically gifted appartemento or Magica. Keeps going back to MaraX. Keep it going bro, 🙏🏻 Not sure till when itll get itchy for a Bianca 😂
So besides the build quality,
Would you choose this one or the breville dual boiler. Same price range, build in control center customizable pre infusion
One of the two wil come in my kitchen but wish one I don’t now yet, the Lamar has the build quality l, but the breville has the functionality and dual boiler
Hi Kyle. I really like your videos, your reviews. A while ago I was thinking to buy a Mara x and I change my mind and I wanted a Elisabeth and then I saw the new line of Expobar/Crem one to be more specific Crem One 2b ( I don't know if are familiar with this brand or if you can review one of this ) and I don't know what should do because here in Europe the you can find Crem one 2b at the same price as Elisabeth.
Hey Kyle, great video! I was curious if you had any thoughts on super-automatic espresso machines, like the Jura line of machines?
I believe they fit a need for a certain person. Unfortunately, that person is not me.
I would love to see a review of the Lelit Elizabeth too. Same price range and interesting specifications!
Only problem for me is the brass brew boiler.
here in Europe we get the Mara X on 999 EURs (1200 USDs) and the Elizabeth on 1200 EURs (1450 USDs).. so considering the small gap between the Mara X and the Elizabeth.. which one is actually better? dual boiler on the Elizabeth or heat exchange and the E61 grouphead of the Mara X?
Turn that notification bell on, because this is the next video :)
Great review. I still think the Mara x falls short on PID and shot timer... and steam pressure. I just changed my Lelit Victoria and ended up going to Rocket ... also because the drip tray grill cover rattled so much in the Vic, and the Mara x has the same
Which rocket?
@@fikofikret1522 Giotto Evo R
Bianca would be the same price as the Giotto Evo R. That’s be a tough call as much as I love the look of the rocket
@@Superted7272 Indeed, tough call. The Bianca has an edge on value for money (dual boiler) but I think the shot profiling system makes it hard to replicate (or even remember) good shots. I believe profiling requires some "memory" system (R 9 One or Decent Espresso). In the end design was part of it also. I prefer the Rocket, ECM, Profitec aesthetics. Lelit's strength doesn't lie in design. I think the bubble wood feet and 70's retro basement wood paneling paddle don't do the machine justice. In the end it lives on the countertop for a long time...
I looked very closely at all the brands you mentioned and ended up choosing the ECM Synchronika with flow control. You just can't beat ECM or Profitec when it comes to solid build quality, plus their aesthetics are beautiful in my opinion. Couldn't be happier as it has performed very well for the year that I've had it.
I kind of like that it doesn't have digital interface. It feels more mehanical though it is not practical. I love design of it... Btw.. What is with F58 giveaway? I didn't find where to see the winner of it
Hey! The winner was announced on Instagram by both flair and myself. The winner was also contacted directly by email.
I am from CR. I would like to buy it. Do you know how I can get it?
Thank you