Choosing the right espresso machine for home can be confusing, especially when different machines offer different levels of control and involvement. Since an espresso machine is often a long-term investment, it’s a decision worth considering carefully. For many home baristas, Lelit has become a popular choice, offering a balance of performance, design, and usability.
Within Lelit’s lineup, three models often come up in comparison: the Elizabeth , MaraX V2 , and Bianca V3 . While all three are capable of producing excellent espresso, each one is designed with a slightly different type of home barista in mind.
What Elizabeth, MaraX V2 and Bianca V3 have in common:
- Compact footprint suitable for most kitchen countertop
- 58mm portafilter, compatible with many accessories
- Strong steam performance for milk drinks
- Comes with 2.5L water tank
The main difference comes down to how much control and involvement you want in your espresso making routine. 
The Elizabeth is a compact dual-boiler espresso machine designed for consistency and ease of use. With PID temperature control and the Lelit Control Centre (LCC) , you can easily adjust brew temperature, monitor shot time, and manage key settings. Its direct 58mm brew group also allows for faster heat-up while maintaining stable brewing temperatures.
You should get the Elizabeth if:
- You make coffee daily and value convenience
- You want consistent coffee without any fuss
- You prefer digital control to manage brew settings
The MaraX V2 is a heat-exchange espresso machine with a classic E61 group head , offering a more traditional espresso-making experience. What sets it apart is the X-mode temperature system . With X-mode, you can switch between a coffee-focused mode that prioritises brew temperature stability and a steam-focused mode that boosts steam power for milk drinks.
You should get the MaraX V2 if:
- You prefer a more hands-on brewing experience
- You enjoy a traditional level-operated workflow experience
- You regularly make milk-based drinks
The Bianca V3 is a dual-boiler machine with a traditional E61 grouphead and it also features the Lelit Control Centre (LCC) . Its standout feature is the manual flow control paddle , which allows you to adjust water flow during extractions. Combined with a rotary pump , it provides a quieter operation. The Bianca V3 also includes a movable external water tank , giving you flexibility in terms of counter space and kitchen layout.
You should get the Bianca V3 if:
- You enjoy dialling in and refining your espresso shots
- You are looking for a machine that can grow with your skills over time
- You like being more involved in the brewing process
Ultimately, the choice comes down to the kind of espresso-making experience you’re looking for at home – whether you value simplicity, a traditional workflow, or greater control.
