I absolutely love my Bianca V3. It's been faultless during daily use for the last year and I'm still enjoying experimenting with the manual flow control.
Good to see your update. I have had my Mark II Bianca for over 3 years now without any problems. I'm not a heavy user, averaging 2 cups a day, but I'm still happily surprised that there have been no issues.
Same experience here after 6 months. Looks great on the counter - I also have the white one. Only issue: my bottomless portafilter handle has started cracking where the wood meets the metal. Contacted the local distributor (Edika) and they sent me a new one a week later. Great service here in Montreal Canada. Thanks and keep up the great work ! Love your reviews!
"Mid prosumer" did not sound right to me at all. RU-vidrs tend to have extremely high priced machines and other gadgets. This paints an illusion that everyone has crazy machines and gadgets. But in reality, enthusiasts/prosumers outside of youtube are quite different. 3000 USD + machines are definitely high-end for majority of enthusiasts/prosumers. (Let's also not forget, for an average coffee drinker this is astronomical). On the other hand, what more can an even higher end machine can offer other than the brand name and maybe different aesthetics?
I purchased my Bianca in UK, when they first arrived, so its been in daily use for over 4 years now. I plumbed it in after a kitchen refit, but I would say the moveable water tanks is a clever plus point for many users. It has been completely reliable, no need for any technicians. Parts are ex stock in UK and probably US and you can either repair it yourself or get a local skilled person to do so. It is not complex and is built for easy servicing, with external pump adjustment and drain plugs. I compared it with Profitec and Rocket at the showroom, but the paddle flow control won out and I haven't regretted it at all. I still dont feel the need for another machine and spend my coffee budget on expensive beans and latterly a grinder upgrade or two 😂.
Appreciate the follow up. Definitely something I like about your approach to reviewing equipment is the long term useability of a product. Bianca is definitely on my short list of machines. At this point it comes down to whether I want the option to automate all of the flow control with something like the Decent instead. Would be interested to hear some more commentary on the ECM Sync and Profitec Drive vs Bianca. Flow controlled E61 machines seem like something better to be compared than to the Micra or Mini, although I totally see where you were going in the value for money subject.
I like old-fashioned simple high-quality machines that work and are easy and not too expensive to repair. Thats why i bought a synchronika, but id like to try one of these.
Yeah I had an opportunity to get into the Synchronika, albeit for a short time. It was nice, but for some reason the appreciation for an E61 didn’t really strike me until I got my hands on this one.
I have had the Bianca V2 for a little over two years now, and recently the flow paddle became very stiff. I managed to take it apart with some difficulty and put on a little silicon grease and fortunately it's working perfectly again. Apparently this can be an issue so it's better to not wait until it occurs, as replacing the whole paddle unit is quite expensive. And as you say, the paddle is really the main reason the machine is so nice to work with. I have been very happy with it from the start.
I was close to getting a Bianca v3 but instead went with the smaller sibling MaraX v2. My reasoning was that a large duo boiler would be a bit of an overkill for me as I’m the only one drinking coffee at home… but sometimes I feel like regretting that decision. Lelit does make solid machines. I love my MaraX and for being an HX, it’s great, I’m getting amazing results with light roasted coffee…and it was the answer to HX issues with temp instability and they did so great that other manufacturers copied it. I’m sure Lelit Bianca is way better but for $250usd I can add the flow control kit which I’m probably going to do sometime in the near future. Great video my friend!
Love my V2, have owned it almost a year- shot count currently @ 1682!!... the flow control takes some getting use to but once you understand it it’s pretty sweet. Have pulled some absolutely delicious shots on this machine, whipped many types of milk into silky submission. We also have hosted a pop up coffee bar on 3 different occasions - I was a little worried that it would lag on temp stability and or steam pressure but it didn’t skip a beat. Love the smaller foot print of this machine - only thing I would ask for is a bit tighter feel to flow control and a bit more weight to the portafilter handles. They look nice but are a bit on the light side for my personal preference. In all a great machine 10/10, 5⭐️’s ect. Spro - send a sample of your Little Giant coffee to Ny 😉. Always look forward to my Friday spro videos. Keep up your great work for us coffee nerds
Man, this has been a perfectly timed video! I have a Bianca V3 coming in the next week, or so, and I am super confident it will be my end-game machine for years to come :) carrying out repairs don't concern me and if anything, I hope to be able to carry out a screen upgrade mod at some point to further its capabilities and maybe bring it inline with the Gaggiuino mod :o
@CampbellyTube After 3 and a half months with it, I have no complaints whatsoever. I got the black one, and it's super easy to keep clean and maintain a great look. Originally I thought having a dual boiler was overkill as I usually just make single shots, but I've since gotten into a relationship and have alot more people come over and this thing does back to back shots like it's nothing :D I have no doubt though that the Synchronika would be just the same! So by this point, pick based upon look preference and price I guess? They will both make killer coffees!
Perfect timing and thanks for doing this overview! Before you released this new vid, I was going through the same conundrum (as bunch of other users on the web). Even before your thoughts on Bianca vs. Micra, I was considering to go with Bianca because of the flow control to get the most out of espresso prep techniques. I guess, if a user is living in the city of 1 mill populous (especially with a big coffee culture in it), then there'd be technicians around to fix Bianca if it breaks apart.
I used e61 machines for some years and upgraded to micra. Love the fast heat up time and temperature stability. Would have been nice to have flow control but I'm ok with it
I live in china and had my V3 foir more than a year, what really surprise to me back then is how its MSRP in China was so much cheaper than its in the west. I got it for around $1750. Maybe CN market had a lot more competetors like WMP and Gemilai
Hmmm, very interesting. I once saw a "Chinese Slayer" that's half the price of the original Slayer as well. Outside it's identical, inside I don't know. I think I saw it from a Singaporean cafe RU-vid channel. I don't know if it's a counterfeit? Or is it made from the same factory just removed the branding or what........ I can't find any more info online. Maybe yours V3 is the same case, but if it brews good espresso and you're happy with it, I think you're good to go.
@@SuperPandaren I got it from an official retailer and its just lelit's marketing plan. There isn't a huge market for high end home coffee machine in China so they took a dominate lead by reduce the MSRP. It has been pretty successful.
I’ve had my V3 for just over a year. No issues and love it. Couldn’t ask for more. Truthfully I don’t use anything else other than adjusting temp and flow control…I’ve never tried low flow at all 😂
Have had my v2 for three years. I'm at 2500 shots and it is still functioning like new. Had it in for servicing once and swapped the vaccuum breaker. Would definitely buy one again. Currently don't see any competing machines on the market that I'd rather own.
I have the v2 and it’s an absolute joy to use. It’s three years old and I brew around 4-5 shots a day, haven’t had any issues yet. I would consider the linea mini though, but that’s more a design choice, and I would really miss the flow control.
I'd like to add that in terms of support and repairs, 1st Line Equipment has been great for me with my Mara X. I had an issue with scale buildup (my fault) at the same time as a relay went out and they were very responsive and walked me through everything via email. They are extremely thorough in their troubleshooting and are willing to fully walk you through everything, as long as you're confident in your own abilities to do so. If the lack of support is a decision making factor for you, and you live on the east coast, 1st Line is wonderful.
Bought it in 2017, I upgraded everything to V2, I had to change the OPV one time, and the Vacuum Breaker Valve about 3 times, but the parts are super cheap and easy to change. The 6th year the paddle needle broke, so I changed it easily, bought all the parts online in a shop in Italy. I'm extremely happy with the machine.
Hey thanks for sharing this! For anyone who’s not as handy, where does one start if they need to repair a Lelit machine. Had a Breville oracle in the past that was an absolute utter train wreck service experience. Still have PTSD from it.
@@Guy9052m there is a Lelit repair channel, I found youtube videos easily,, basically the OPV and vacuum breaker are on top of the steam boiler, you buy some teflon tape that you put around the parts and it's super easy to change.
I recently was torn between the two and went with the micra. As much fun as the paddle looks, I wanted the heft and oomph behind the “commercial for the home” LM is known for. Plus, I favor medium roasts and milk drinks so heavily it was like choosing between 5-10% better espresso vs 5-10% better milk steaming (on all accounts LM steam is an absolute beast). And of course, the Micra is well reputed for being super forgiving and still pulling amazing shots. I guess I also am looking for less faff so the convenience factor heavily weighed on the decision. Anyways, great video!
@@jonathanl2748 I have a acaia lunar and i can comfortably my largest cup, the kruve latte (i think ~ 8 fl oz size) under the bottomless portafilter with the scale under as long as i slide the cup in from the side. Not a big deal for my personally, and the machine is repeatable enough that on the rare days i want to use the spouts i go by time instead of weight and usually get the desired ratio without much hassle
1 year in.. time for a descale (great Lelit maintenance video channel). I find it to be quite responsive on the padle and boiler temp control no control issues. Have mostly been using for espresso since they come out soo great, shots don't need any milk. 10 minute warm up with steam boiler off. Go Lelit!
I bought mine thanks to you last month and she’s truly awesome! Could you explore the program possibilities with it (like a dial in 2 different roast profile with your adequate flow profile)? Low flow start and end…. There’s not so much content on this topic online and it’s almost endless possibilities with flow control… so your advice would be immensely appreciated boss! Again, thanks for your work 🙏
Great update. I had this machine on my radar. But I am leaning towards the Pro 600 as I’m slightly biased towards Profitec since I have a GO right now. Absolutely love the look/aesthetics of it and the build quality and the joysticks as well. Which machine would you recommend between the Pro 600 and Bianca V3? I know you can give an honest opinion since the Pro 600 seem to be your daily driver before the Bianca V3. Any input would be greatly appreciated thank you
Last week I called 1st-line Equipment to ask about the Bianca. Based on reliability issues they are currently not selling it. They said the quality has gotten worse recently since Breville bought them. They also said that some of the internal components were changed to cheaper parts.
There are some great machines out there now but unfortunately many at this price point aren’t plumbable. Nice that the Bianca offers this which has it sitting at the top of my list when I get around to replacing my Expobar.
Immediately when I started watching this video I thought, "What's your thoughts comparing the Lelit Bianca V3 vs. the La Marzocco Micra?" Then, you addressed the comparison. Amazing. The La Marzocco Micra doesn't have a paddle pre-infusion option but there is a "Slayer mod" you can add. Money no object and just comparing the machines as is, would you rather have the Micra with Slayer mod or the Bianca V3? Why? Thank you for this brilliant update.
Oooh, that’s a good question. And I think in the end, money not being an object, I’d go for the Micra with the mod purely because I have a deep love for the Linea aesthetic.
@@Sprometheus Hmm.... that's my feeling too. Especially a Micra customized by Specht Design with the Slayer Mod (Linea Mini needle valve kit 2.0 by Grafikus Coffeetec). This would be the ultimate semi-automatic home espresso machine. Me, being my stubborn self, would still prefer the simplicity of the Olympia Cremina. How do you improve a spoon?
Great re-visit! I've had my Bianca since last fall and totally love it, wouldn't trade it for anything. Especially not for a machine that's 1K or 2K more expensive and doesn't even offer flow control! One question: how often do you back-flush it with cafiza or similar (i.e. after how many shots), and did you have to re-lubricate the grouphead cam already?
I’ve been having analysis paralysis on my upgrade between the Bianca and the Profitec Drive. Seems like the Profitec might have a slight edge in steam temp/pressure but not sure how relevant that actually is in daily use. I’m sure if I watch another 200 videos I’ll decide by next year which one to get 😅
I got one back during Cyber Monday week, based on your video and many others. I've been using it fairly easily since then using mostly light/medium light specialty coffee, usually washed but occasionally naturally processed (shout out to Coffee Cycle Roaster here in San Diego). One thing I'm curious about is trying to do some flow profile recipes using the paddle, but I am a bit hesitant to give it a shot -- since I really don't even know where to begin -- and well I'm the type of person who does best following a video, and it seems like there's not a lot about this feature of the machine.
I'm a "retired" coffee industry pro and this machine is very tempting. But I am still leaning towards either the Micra or new Mini, simply because of my commercial experience with La Marzocco. I always wanted one and it's hard to shake that feeling. Still, the flow control the Bianca has makes it very tempting...though I'll be completely honest, I don't know how much geeky experimenting is left in me at this point, these days i'm more for everyday user experience and reliability. If you had only one daily driver, which machine would you keep?
Lelit bianca V2 from 2 years. Perfect as new. I have an idea to but a Marzocco Micra only for fun but then I realize that for 4000 euro the machine doesn't have a flow control that is fun and useful....
I know a guy who paid $800 for a Rancillio Silvia in 2013, used it several times every day, kept it in pristine condition. He sold it about a month ago for $500. Buying quality machines (and maintaining them) is not expensive once the resale value is considered.
Exchanged my faulty Ascaso for a white Bianca. No regrets. This is a fantastic machine. I am almost done with my all white espresso corner. Would you roast my setup when it's ready, @Sprometheus? 😅 PS the European version of Bianca is 1800W and it heats up quicker.
As of today, I can get an ECM Synchronika for $2,850 USD or the Bianca for $3K USD. I really like the Bianca, it’s smaller footprint and it’s good looking on the front, but I do feel like people really love the build quality on the ECM. If the ECM is actually less (I suspect they are discounting prior to releasing the V2), would you prefer the ECM?
E61 machines are like Omega Speedmasters, Honda B-K series etc. Simple and effective with a touch of old Alfa Romeo style. They've been around forever and I'm pretty sure they're here to stay no matter what. ❤
when people advertise new machines as is this end game. This is end game. It has been a great machine, from basic lift up the lever to playing around with what ever the heck you want.
Oh yeah, I paired them up for this video. No issues to speak of, pulled some outstanding shots. I think the bigger question would be what burrs you’d want in your Philos, that will make a big difference in the cup.
You mentioned the ECM and Profitech with a little higher price is this little difference worth it ? Because you also mention levers are less prone to wear out . What are other differences that justify the price uplift if there are any ? Thanks for the great video
I'm torn between the Micra and the Bianca. What I'd be interested in is the offset issue other reviewers talked about. They claim to have inspected 20+ Biancas and found that the offset between boiler temp and water temp at the group head varies between 4-8 degrees (Celsius) between machines. So, what that means, if you set your machine to a certain temperature, you can't really be sure what temperature you'll have in the portafilter. My local dealer on the other hand says that this is not an issue... well, then someone must be telling not the truth? Do you have insight into that? Did you have your machine inspected? Or did Lelit maybe preset the correct values on your machine, since they reached out to you? The Bianca seems to be much better value for the money, but I want to get that issue out of the way before spending that much money. The LM Micra with its saturated group seems to be the safer bet in that regard.
What’s your preferred water method for your Bianca? I can’t seem to settle on what would be best - Lelit filter + BWT water + TWW with distilled water, or a combination of 2 or more
I'm not a Bianca owner nor have I ever been, I am however the long term owner of an ECM Synchronika with a flow control which is the long standing industry standard for e61 prosumer machines but it's flow control is a joke as is it's sibling the Profitecs flow control IMHO), that being said if the Bianca had been around when I Bought my Synchronika I would seriously have considered the Bianca instead for it's flow control alone.
If I had the 3K, this would be my next upgrade from my Lucca X58 HX machine. But, for now, I'm happy with an HX with PID and flow control. I would love the rotary pump.
When the time comes it’ll be a proper upgrade. But in my experience you can make great espresso on almost every machine once you understand where it excels and where its faults are. The rotary pump is very nice, and thus has to be one of the quietest ones I’ve had a chance to use.
Any thoughts on the newer Profitec Drive? I’m on the fence to pull the trigger because of that recent launch… What should I do? Can we have a full review of the decent please? Soon!!! That’s my third option but I’m hesitant because of the steam power (still within my price range)
I have the v3 for 7 months using the 70l waterfilter to avoid scale. Think its a great machine, Using cafigia when doing a blindfilter made it squeek. Using some foodsave silicongrease in side when doing a service .stoped it. Can you do a descale service your self?
How do you feel the Profitec Pro 600 with Flow Control compares to the Lelit Bianca? They seem similar, except maybe you aren't getting the automatic preinfusion functions of the Lelit?
Oooh. Now that’s a tough one. I feel like the Decent has grown on me. But when it comes to the programmed shot ability the Decent is hard to beat because of its far more advanced control.
I have the Bianca v3. But thinking about selling it and replacing it with the new LM mini. I love the Bianca, but I would like to try and LM. I don’t use flow control. What are your thoughts about that? The LM mini is a lot more expensive than Bianca
Did you change the pump pressure on yours? i set mine to 9 bar max, only issue is this has lowered the max flow rate to about 6g/s i could increase the flow by adjusting the needle valve but then lose the capability to turn off the flow completely
Decent DE1 Pro not as pretty as the Bianca, but you can program the Bianca into the Decent. Yes, $600 more... but considering it has the Micra and Bianca output built-in... plus lever style profiles... plus poor over and tea capabilities... Plus, it heats up in less than 5 minutes... I dont know... choices choices...
Yes, it keeps me from buying one now, the competitors have just caught up with Bianca with different features and if lelit wants to be in the lead when it comes to features, a new version is a must.
My guess is probably not. It’s an iconic design, but also, it’s patent expired and that’s why you see it on so many machines. Little to no R&D needed, lots of available parts, and you don’t have to design your own group.
@@Sprometheus but whats the reason bianca cant be use for high traffic? It has dual boiler as commercial machine right? thanks for the reply, really want to find out.
This may be a silly question but how does the paddle feel/handle during use? It looks awkward and uncomfortable/ergonomically awkward to hold compared to other paddle style machines since it rotates on what looks like a 270 degree axis vs most machines that are under 180
I saw a video…and Aussie reviewer I think…that said, while the Lilit looked great, you don’t get as good feedback “feel” vs the profited flow control. On the other hand a 170 degree range is batter than more than 360 on the Profitec where you can get lost on where you’re at. Thats my memory anyway. I’m still researching. 😅
I wouldn't call Micra a safer bet. You're paying $2k more for less features and the security of you can drive it to a technican if and when you need repairs vs having to mail the Lelit to a manufacturer to get fixed. Id still get the Bianca but both are solid machines but for different types of consumers like you highlighted. Just dont see one being "safer"
Hi! I have a question that haunts me and that is preventing me from buying the V2 to V3 upgrade… I like fast puck saturation but also would not like preassure to rise real fast during pre-infusion… I have read that first 4 seconds it goes full flow no matter you configure low flow, and then low flow kicks in so preassure does not rise. Is that true or does it go low flow from the very beginning??? Thanks a lot!!!
Agree that the BDB is a great machine and my daily workhorse for almost 6 months. However, i don’t like the feel of using it. Flipping levers and spinning knobs would be more enjoyable for me. So, the day my BDB dies, I’ll purchase this machine.
Actually I was hesitated buying the V3 for the same reason , So I contacted the lelit EU shop on 16 Feb. and this was their response “We’re not planning on launching a V4 version of Bianca, stay tuned for other news!” You can contact Lelit store for further confirmatio
@@4Rnrhe Well, that was an expected answer, they would kill sales on version 3 if they announced that a version 4 would be coming soon, and on the other hand, what could a version 4 come with that version 3 doesn't already have.
I don't understand why anyone would buy the Lelit Bianca when you can get the same features and functionality out of a Profitech Pro 600 for $600 less.
The Profitec Pro 600, while a commendable machine, does not quite match up to the Bianca in several aspects. The Bianca's superior LCC (PID controller), pump, and flow control offer more usability. Additionally, the company's support, the range of included accessories, and the overall build quality set the Bianca apart. Although some may disagree, I've observed that my Profitec Pro 600 tended to produce various noises during its warm-up period, which is not the case with the Bianca.
I love my Bianca v3 too. One thing I am abit concerned is the flow. Because I set the flow at a certain (I think I had set it at around 9 milliliter/sec). But after 5-6 months, this flow seems to be abit reduced. This is my only concern for a machine that I own and use daily the last 1 and a half year
Bought my bianca v3 in November of last year for just under 12,000 rmb (about $1700 usd). One latte every morning and an americano in my thermos for after lunch. Fantastic machine! Very glad to hear others affirm its reliability down the line as well.
