I’m hoping you can help me with a small problem of mine. I’m taking a barista course next week, and the people behind it will be offering us to buy a Lelit PL 55 espresso machine at a greatly reduced price, slightly below a Rancilio Silvia. The thing is, the Lelit machines are virtually unknown in my country (Sweden) so getting user information is very difficult. From what I can see, they’re quite known elsewhere, so hopefully you can give me some insight as to whether or not the PL 55 is on a par or better than a Silvia.
I’m also a bit worried about the steam part of the machine, which on the product information site has a white plastic piece on it that I’m guessing is a turbo part, which I hear is not a good thing to have, do you agree? I’ve read that it has a rather odd filter dimension, 57mm or something, while others use 58? Any information you could give me would be greatly appreciated!
Bottom line, should I buy this instead of a Silvia?
Zohrath, The LeLit uses the same boiler that the Francis Francis machines use, about 210ml, the Silvia has a 270ml boiler. It uses thermistors for steam and brewing, the same as Silvia, FF uses an RTD and temp control. The heating element is 1100 watts, Silvia 900 watts. Uses the same 47watt Ulka pump as Silvia and FF. The ability to steam is not great, boiler is just too small. So, if micro foam is a must for latte art this machine will not do what you want. But it does produce perfectly good fluffy foam for a respectable milk based drink. You can easily get a good tamper here in the US but else where I can not help you. The espresso is as good as any Silvia, although some may disagree, and is more dependent on your skill with the grinder and tamping. Shots need to be 60ml or less to maintain the boiler temp. The main thing to think about is how you plan on using the machine. For 2 shots or 2 milk based drinks at a time it should be great for the price. If you want larger shots even the Silvia will not work well, boiler is also too small. I hope that helps.
Check out the price of a Reneka Duo which is a rebadged Brasilia Club. If the Duo uses the capillary thermostat, then it's a nice machine. I have machines with the same boiler/group as the LeLit and Silvia, and I like the Club better. If stainless steel is important to you, the LeLit is easier to use, the Silvia can produce a better espresso and the Silvia is more serious machine. If you want to draw hot water for tea, go for the Silvia.
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