Ascaso Steel Duo PID: geni.us/TcCDtM Diletta Mio: geni.us/21lXL Kruve Propel Glass: geni.us/BSmD Try our coffee! geni.us/4AAmhpj (As an Affiliate I earn from qualifying purchases)
I tried a Mio and a key point that would help your reviews (more generally) is that it has *very* low cup clearance. For anyone who wants to have their shot go direct into the cup, for example to preserve the crema, this factor is quite important. The Ascaso looks in the video like it has much better clearance.
Have you noticed any excessive vibration from the pump with UNO or DUO? I saw a few complaints about the cups on top and under the portafilter not staying in place.
There’s another machine that fits in snuggly between the two - it’s called the Quickmill Luna. Price is a couple of hundred dollars shy of the Ascaso, recommend you check it out and perhaps do a review on that too. The dual thermoblock space for home use is definitely a growing area of interest.
The depth of the Ascaso Steel series machines is such an undervalued side-effect of the heating-system used. They fit on way smaller spaces than other machines. I have a coffee setup at home with a Gaggia Classic Pro and an Ascaso machine is SO obvious to replace it…
I did exactly that a few weeks ago for the same reason and am enjoying it a lot. I had tweaked my Gaggia Classic a whole lot over 15 years to get the most out of it, but the stock Ascaso outperforms the Gaggia by a mile in every way and it looks great on the counter.
@@frederikblochwulff3325 very quick! Like 2-3 minutes and it's registering ideal temps. The grouphead/portafilter doesn't get hot the same way a machine with a boiler gets hot but the espresso that comes out even a few minutes after turning it on is the right temperature. If you leave the machine on for an hour or so, the grouphead will eventually get hot and you can run some water through the grouphead before the first espresso to shock the metal into getting hotter, but I haven't noticed a difference in the espresso from doing that, so I stopped doing that each morning.
I'm torn between the Mio and the profitec GO. My main like on the mio is the side loading water reservoir because I have low cabinets bit I like the German build and the internal construction of the profitec GO. I've seen your reviews of both bur not a head to head, which would you choose?.
Did you decide😂I’m on the same conundrum. For me it’s more so the simultaneous brewing and milk steaming as I make 2 lattes a day back to back. But I feel like profitec seems better built and has better steam performance albeit have to wait ~1 min for increased steam temp
The two machines that I am currently trying to decide between are the Ascaso Steel Duo V2 and the Quickmill Luna which are both dual thermoblock machines. Would it be possible for you to do a full comparison review of these two machines including the pros & cons of both. If anyone was considering the Ascaso Steel Duo V2, I'm sure they would want to also consider the Quickmill Luna and there are virtually no proper reviews out there on the Quickmill Luna. Thanks.
How is the ascaso with pulling back to back shots for large parties/family gatherings? Is there a reduction in brew temp? Thank you so much for the upload.
The Arcasa Steel Duo seems a very attractive buy to me. It has a very beautiful design. How a difference with the Rocket Appartemento. The pid display is nicely located above at the forefront. How a difference with the Profitec Go Even adjustable preinfusion is possible. Anyway at first sight looking like a great machine. OPV is adjustable in a easy way too.
I really loved your videos and currently have the Breville infuser for at least six years now along with the SGP. I know the grinder is considered more important and I’m still researching that as well, but if I’m looking to upgrade the espresso machine I’m really stuck between a used or new BDB or the Ascaso. I have the right outlet in the kitchen but my main concerns are usability for me and my wife who is not as concerned with all the details and overall power draw from the machine. I love the aesthetics of this Ascaso but also love the options I have with the BDB. Looks aside, if you could have one right now, which would you choose? And of course I know that the discontinued aspect of the current BDB might play into this.
Also, compared to the smart grinder pro from Breville, is it really that big upgrade to go for some of the popular dosing grinders at $400-$500?? Assuming my grinder is still in great condition is it even worth the upgrade right now?
If it were up to me I'd go for the Ascaso. Still plenty of programmability, better build, better looks. In terms of grinders, especially over the last few years, you can get some really great stuff under $1000 now. I'd say you're still getting considerable upgrade. Check out the X54 or Eureka options within your budget
Really enjoyed your analysis. I do think you could have mentioned the price points or at least the delta between these two machines. The Ascaso is a great looking machine in need of a dedicated steam on/off switch and a faster or more powerful thermoblock. I find 45 seconds to steam milk just too long.... for my patience level first thing in the morning. 😉
I agree with William - I also wished you’d mentioned price with the note that it can vary. It seems like very comparable machines so listing the price gap would make sense. A great video although I felt like you had a bias towards the Ascaso.
I bought a Delonghi ECP260BK from Goodwill for $12.99. My espresso machine works flawlessly for my morning coffee fix. I buy cheap coffee from Costco. I guess I am a broke Joe average that has no cash to sink on fancy machines with overpriced grinders and expensive coffee from a local roasting store.
Nope! You’ve just found a machine and coffee source that you’re happy with and that’s great :) There shouldn’t ever be judgement based on how much someone spends…
Profitec - Better build quality and finishing, stronger steaming power Mio - Slower steaming, but can brew and steam at the same time so depending on workflow might be faster
I wouldn’t be concerned at all from a longevity perspective. Their own service department was heavily involved in speccing the machine, and they over designed the parts they see fail the most. When I say build quality, I’m referring more to the feel of the parts you touch and external finishing
The Ascaso has a steam toggle switch so wouldn't that switch determine whether or not the steam thermoblock was On or Off instead of having to access the menu each time? Thanks.
No, the circuit is always heated regardless of switch position. Otherwise there would be a few minute wait for the circuit to warm up before steaming was available
If one shot is programed on the duo and the other is manual do you have to hold the manual down or is it a simple toggle on/off? If you program a longer duration can it be stopped by toggling off? How is the vibration/noise level on the duo? I was deciding between this machine and the BDB. The ascaso has it beat in looks but it seem to me that the BDB has better features and flexibility. Your thoughts? Thanks
If you want full manual on the Ascaso you’d need to hold it, yes, which would also reprogram the button. Unless you have it programmed like I do, which is that runs indefinitely and then like you said, you stop it by toggling off. Vibration on both is going to be quieter than the Breville. Slightly better damping, and less plastic to echo around in, haha
@@LifestyleLab_ Can I ask, as a newbie, what is the best value machine with a PID for someone who does mostly straight shots, americanos and the occasional latte? I have been driving myself crazy looking at machines. Your content has been super helpful! Budget is around $1300 USD. Thanks!!
If you’re drinking straight espresso, you’re going to want to spend a good amount on the grinder, as that has the biggest impact on espresso quality. Something like the Eureka Specialita and a Gaggia Classic Pro sounds like it would suit you perfectly
@@LifestyleLab_ Thanks.. That exact grinder was my first purchase a few weeks back..😊 As far as machines I was looking at the Ascaso Dream PID , a refurbished ECM Classika and a used Profitec pro 500 a neighbor is selling for $1200 USD. Thanks again, sincerely appreciate your opinion.
@@LifestyleLab_ I just ordered 2 day ago. Upgrade from Solis perfecta. Martin reason is the size. It just just fit right on my counter space. Do you have any recommendation for any espresso machine with that size of Stone? Thank you
First! I’m never first!! I’ve never liked programmable things that don’t have a proper screen mated with a well thought out GUI. I wonder how much extra adding a small LCD touch screen would cost. Or even a non-touch screen with a 4 button interface: up, down, enter & back. A simple iPod-type menu system should suffice for all programming (these aren’t Decents, after all) and now you don’t need to go dredging up the manual any time you want to mess around with something.
Get something with a dual boiler. Since you don't have to worry about initial preheat time, the extra steaming performance will save you massive amounts of time.
It’s a dual heating system, technically zero boilers. Two thermoblocks. Steaming would be sub 20 seconds on a boiler based machine, sits around 45 seconds here. Up to you on how valuable that is based on your anticipated volume of sales
I know prices change, but it would be interesting to get a comparison to the Uno which is a much closer price match which doesn’t require unusual kitchen circuitry to use safely vs the duo
I generally do my comparisons based on closed feature-sets rather than price point. Essentially all the same comments would apply to Uno vs Mio, except of course now the Mio has a big latte workflow/speed advantage, and the Uno does not have the ability to adjust steam temperature
@@LifestyleLab_ Assuming bottomless portofilter, would you then recommend Mio for someone in this rough price range who would primarily drink lattes? I'm looking at first time purchase, and have been leaning towards Uno, but also considering Profitec Go, and now maybe the Mio. Not really sure how to decide between all of these.
@@batsshadow For you, the Mio sounds like the best option as long as you're ok with not having programmable shots. The Steaming workflow on it's own is worth it
@@LifestyleLab_ Can you elaborate on why the Mio has the best steaming workflow? In this video, you mentioned that the Steel Duo is marginally faster, and in your other Mio review, you mention that the Mio's steam wand doesn't fit correctly near the base.
This review should be comparing to the Ascaso Uno, which also has a separate boiler for steaming instead of a thermoblock. The Uno is almost at the same price point and having tested the Mio, it seems a better machine.
The Ascaso Steel duo (PID new model) costs 1399,-Euro incl. VAT / 1175,-Euro excl. Tax in Europe. That will be 1880,-Australian $ plus tax. So the machine is cheaper in Australia. Maybe that is one helping point for the decision to buy or not. (By the way. The ascaso is made in Spain. So why is it cheaper abroad?)
I had a Flair 58 as my first espresso "machine" and stepped up to the Steel Duo about a year ago. I'm so pleased with the Steel Duo. It's a great machine and has really improved my daily workflow. The Flair is great, but the Steel Duo is better to live with.
I have the Ascaso shown here. It is excellent but not unimprovable. Vibration is relatively high...unsurprisingly with a vibration pump, but it does mean that the cup warmer is pretty pointless because the rattling makes it unusable.
@@LifestyleLab_ is the BKB known for not being reliable? also wondering on the difference between dual boiler vs thermacoil. i did notice you said coils were more energy efficient
Ascaso Steel Duo PID: geni.us/TcCDtM
Diletta Mio: geni.us/21lXL
Kruve Propel Glass: geni.us/BSmD
Try our coffee! geni.us/4AAmhpj
(As an Affiliate I earn from qualifying purchases)
I tried a Mio and a key point that would help your reviews (more generally) is that it has *very* low cup clearance. For anyone who wants to have their shot go direct into the cup, for example to preserve the crema, this factor is quite important. The Ascaso looks in the video like it has much better clearance.
Ascaso makes awesome espresso machines. I've had my Steel Uno Pro for almost 10 years, with minimal issues. Highly recommend the brand.
idem, i've bought my Steel Uno Prof, 10 years ago, change joint, shower, front temp gauge, and thermostats: go for five more years i think !
Have you noticed any excessive vibration from the pump with UNO or DUO? I saw a few complaints about the cups on top and under the portafilter not staying in place.
There’s another machine that fits in snuggly between the two - it’s called the Quickmill Luna. Price is a couple of hundred dollars shy of the Ascaso, recommend you check it out and perhaps do a review on that too. The dual thermoblock space for home use is definitely a growing area of interest.
Just picked up the mio in black open box for 950 usd. I'm excited to see how it performs.
The depth of the Ascaso Steel series machines is such an undervalued side-effect of the heating-system used. They fit on way smaller spaces than other machines. I have a coffee setup at home with a Gaggia Classic Pro and an Ascaso machine is SO obvious to replace it…
I did exactly that a few weeks ago for the same reason and am enjoying it a lot. I had tweaked my Gaggia Classic a whole lot over 15 years to get the most out of it, but the stock Ascaso outperforms the Gaggia by a mile in every way and it looks great on the counter.
@@domlazz Thanks for that feedback… It just moved a couple of pegs up my espresso wishlist. How is the warmup time for you…?
@@frederikblochwulff3325 very quick! Like 2-3 minutes and it's registering ideal temps. The grouphead/portafilter doesn't get hot the same way a machine with a boiler gets hot but the espresso that comes out even a few minutes after turning it on is the right temperature. If you leave the machine on for an hour or so, the grouphead will eventually get hot and you can run some water through the grouphead before the first espresso to shock the metal into getting hotter, but I haven't noticed a difference in the espresso from doing that, so I stopped doing that each morning.
I'm torn between the Mio and the profitec GO. My main like on the mio is the side loading water reservoir because I have low cabinets bit I like the German build and the internal construction of the profitec GO. I've seen your reviews of both bur not a head to head, which would you choose?.
Did you decide😂I’m on the same conundrum. For me it’s more so the simultaneous brewing and milk steaming as I make 2 lattes a day back to back. But I feel like profitec seems better built and has better steam performance albeit have to wait ~1 min for increased steam temp
The two machines that I am currently trying to decide between are the Ascaso Steel Duo V2 and the Quickmill Luna which are both dual thermoblock machines. Would it be possible for you to do a full comparison review of these two machines including the pros & cons of both. If anyone was considering the Ascaso Steel Duo V2, I'm sure they would want to also consider the Quickmill Luna and there are virtually no proper reviews out there on the Quickmill Luna. Thanks.
3:02 - i also hope ... they pick up ... steam 😅 awesome comparison as always! Thank you!
Glad someone picked up on that accidental pun 😂
How is the ascaso with pulling back to back shots for large parties/family gatherings? Is there a reduction in brew temp? Thank you so much for the upload.
It’s very good! Literally doing it as we speak for a wedding party
Thermoblocks essentially heat on demand so capacity isn’t an issue
@@LifestyleLab_ Wonderful that's the reason for upgrading from my BBE. Thank you for the reply and congrats to the bride and groom! 🥂
💒
Great video. Have you had a chance to try out the new stone espresso machine? Just wondering your thoughts on that one.
I have not yet!
Looks interesting
Interesting to see a plastic hose inside the steam wand. Is that common?
Yes! It's a great feature to avoid milk sticking to the steam arm. Also makes it safer
The Arcasa Steel Duo seems a very attractive buy to me.
It has a very beautiful design.
How a difference with the Rocket Appartemento.
The pid display is nicely located above at the forefront.
How a difference with the Profitec Go
Even adjustable preinfusion is possible.
Anyway at first sight looking like a great machine.
OPV is adjustable in a easy way too.
I really loved your videos and currently have the Breville infuser for at least six years now along with the SGP. I know the grinder is considered more important and I’m still researching that as well, but if I’m looking to upgrade the espresso machine I’m really stuck between a used or new BDB or the Ascaso. I have the right outlet in the kitchen but my main concerns are usability for me and my wife who is not as concerned with all the details and overall power draw from the machine. I love the aesthetics of this Ascaso but also love the options I have with the BDB. Looks aside, if you could have one right now, which would you choose? And of course I know that the discontinued aspect of the current BDB might play into this.
Also, compared to the smart grinder pro from Breville, is it really that big upgrade to go for some of the popular dosing grinders at $400-$500?? Assuming my grinder is still in great condition is it even worth the upgrade right now?
If it were up to me I'd go for the Ascaso. Still plenty of programmability, better build, better looks.
In terms of grinders, especially over the last few years, you can get some really great stuff under $1000 now. I'd say you're still getting considerable upgrade. Check out the X54 or Eureka options within your budget
Really enjoyed your analysis. I do think you could have mentioned the price points or at least the delta between these two machines. The Ascaso is a great looking machine in need of a dedicated steam on/off switch and a faster or more powerful thermoblock. I find 45 seconds to steam milk just too long.... for my patience level first thing in the morning. 😉
Hi William!
I don’t mention exact pricing because of the tendency for them to change over time, and due to pricing differences in different regions
I agree with William - I also wished you’d mentioned price with the note that it can vary. It seems like very comparable machines so listing the price gap would make sense.
A great video although I felt like you had a bias towards the Ascaso.
And what would that bias have been created by? 🤔
If 45sec in much for you than you ca buy e61 with 45 min time warmup :))
@@dobrescubogdan5740 or the Baby T... which is what I ended up doing. ☕
I bought a Delonghi ECP260BK from Goodwill for $12.99. My espresso machine works flawlessly for my morning coffee fix. I buy cheap coffee from Costco. I guess I am a broke Joe average that has no cash to sink on fancy machines with overpriced grinders and expensive coffee from a local roasting store.
Nope! You’ve just found a machine and coffee source that you’re happy with and that’s great :)
There shouldn’t ever be judgement based on how much someone spends…
Would you compare the Mio with the Profitec Go?
Profitec - Better build quality and finishing, stronger steaming power
Mio - Slower steaming, but can brew and steam at the same time so depending on workflow might be faster
@@LifestyleLab_ The build quality and how long the machine will last is my concern with the Mio. I am not sure how SCG's customer service is either.
I wouldn’t be concerned at all from a longevity perspective. Their own service department was heavily involved in speccing the machine, and they over designed the parts they see fail the most.
When I say build quality, I’m referring more to the feel of the parts you touch and external finishing
@@LifestyleLab_which would YOU choose being you had a chance to test and feel both
I would choose the Mio because I make lots of Lattes so the workflow is better :)
The Ascaso has a steam toggle switch so wouldn't that switch determine whether or not the steam thermoblock was On or Off instead of having to access the menu each time? Thanks.
No, the circuit is always heated regardless of switch position. Otherwise there would be a few minute wait for the circuit to warm up before steaming was available
Great video as always. They could be made by the same company, they look so similar 😁
Are you still using your DE1pro? I'm thinking about buying one. I currently have an ECM technika.
When not reviewing a machine, yes
@@LifestyleLab_ tks!!!
Hello, I would like a review of Bezzera bz 13 from
If one shot is programed on the duo and the other is manual do you have to hold the manual down or is it a simple toggle on/off?
If you program a longer duration can it be stopped by toggling off?
How is the vibration/noise level on the duo?
I was deciding between this machine and the BDB. The ascaso has it beat in looks but it seem to me that the BDB has better features and flexibility.
Your thoughts?
Thanks
If you want full manual on the Ascaso you’d need to hold it, yes, which would also reprogram the button. Unless you have it programmed like I do, which is that runs indefinitely and then like you said, you stop it by toggling off.
Vibration on both is going to be quieter than the Breville. Slightly better damping, and less plastic to echo around in, haha
@@LifestyleLab_ Thanks for the response. I have definitely narrowed it down to these two models.
Hi, where can i find this beautiful glass , please ?
I added a link in the description for you :)
@@LifestyleLab_ Thanks ! Beautiful but expensive ! 😅
Great Review! Can the Diletta do hot water for Americanos?
Unfortunately no, there’s no way to dispense hot water from the Mio
@@LifestyleLab_ Can I ask, as a newbie, what is the best value machine with a PID for someone who does mostly straight shots, americanos and the occasional latte? I have been driving myself crazy looking at machines. Your content has been super helpful! Budget is around $1300 USD. Thanks!!
If you’re drinking straight espresso, you’re going to want to spend a good amount on the grinder, as that has the biggest impact on espresso quality.
Something like the Eureka Specialita and a Gaggia Classic Pro sounds like it would suit you perfectly
@@LifestyleLab_ Thanks.. That exact grinder was my first purchase a few weeks back..😊 As far as machines I was looking at the Ascaso Dream PID , a refurbished ECM Classika and a used Profitec pro 500 a neighbor is selling for $1200 USD. Thanks again, sincerely appreciate your opinion.
@@LifestyleLab_i think it does dispense hot water from the steam arm
You said one was faster to heat up but did not tell what the initial heat up time was
It's pretty quick
Definitely fast.
@@rxonmymind8362 Thank You
@@importantcomment4569 Thank You
Escaso is super fast.
Around 2 mins preheat &
can you review Stone espresso machine? Thank you
Very interesting looking, not great performance for the $$$. You're paying for the novelty
@@LifestyleLab_ I just ordered 2 day ago. Upgrade from Solis perfecta. Martin reason is the size. It just just fit right on my counter space. Do you have any recommendation for any espresso machine with that size of Stone? Thank you
These two are very similar. Profitec GO is also good, step up would be something like a Rancilio Silvia Pro X or Profitec Pro 300
@@LifestyleLab_ thank you for your help
First! I’m never first!!
I’ve never liked programmable things that don’t have a proper screen mated with a well thought out GUI. I wonder how much extra adding a small LCD touch screen would cost. Or even a non-touch screen with a 4 button interface: up, down, enter & back. A simple iPod-type menu system should suffice for all programming (these aren’t Decents, after all) and now you don’t need to go dredging up the manual any time you want to mess around with something.
You guys think the steel duo is sufficient for a coffee cart at pop ups?
Get something with a dual boiler. Since you don't have to worry about initial preheat time, the extra steaming performance will save you massive amounts of time.
For a cart or constant service scenario I’d agree with the above if your budget allows
@@Its_Koala I appreciate the tip. Would it matter if I’m mostly doing iced espresso?
@@LifestyleLab_ isn’t this a dual boiler? I would be doing mostly iced espresso so shouldn’t be too much of problem for a popup yeah?
It’s a dual heating system, technically zero boilers. Two thermoblocks.
Steaming would be sub 20 seconds on a boiler based machine, sits around 45 seconds here. Up to you on how valuable that is based on your anticipated volume of sales
I know prices change, but it would be interesting to get a comparison to the Uno which is a much closer price match which doesn’t require unusual kitchen circuitry to use safely vs the duo
I generally do my comparisons based on closed feature-sets rather than price point.
Essentially all the same comments would apply to Uno vs Mio, except of course now the Mio has a big latte workflow/speed advantage, and the Uno does not have the ability to adjust steam temperature
@@LifestyleLab_ Assuming bottomless portofilter, would you then recommend Mio for someone in this rough price range who would primarily drink lattes?
I'm looking at first time purchase, and have been leaning towards Uno, but also considering Profitec Go, and now maybe the Mio. Not really sure how to decide between all of these.
@@batsshadow For you, the Mio sounds like the best option as long as you're ok with not having programmable shots. The Steaming workflow on it's own is worth it
@@LifestyleLab_ Wow, I really appreciate both the interaction and the willingness to give a direct recommendation. Thank you so much.
@@LifestyleLab_ Can you elaborate on why the Mio has the best steaming workflow? In this video, you mentioned that the Steel Duo is marginally faster, and in your other Mio review, you mention that the Mio's steam wand doesn't fit correctly near the base.
This review should be comparing to the Ascaso Uno, which also has a separate boiler for steaming instead of a thermoblock. The Uno is almost at the same price point and having tested the Mio, it seems a better machine.
The Uno does not have a separate boiler, hence the naming.
@@LifestyleLab_ Thanks for correcting.
The Ascaso Steel duo (PID new model) costs 1399,-Euro incl. VAT / 1175,-Euro excl. Tax in Europe. That will be 1880,-Australian $ plus tax. So the machine is cheaper in Australia. Maybe that is one helping point for the decision to buy or not. (By the way. The ascaso is made in Spain. So why is it cheaper abroad?)
I want a DUO so badly, but I already have a Flair 58 and it's also very awesome.
I had a Flair 58 as my first espresso "machine" and stepped up to the Steel Duo about a year ago. I'm so pleased with the Steel Duo. It's a great machine and has really improved my daily workflow. The Flair is great, but the Steel Duo is better to live with.
Very nice comparison 👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼
Wish it wasn't 20amps 😢
I have the Ascaso shown here. It is excellent but not unimprovable. Vibration is relatively high...unsurprisingly with a vibration pump, but it does mean that the cup warmer is pretty pointless because the rattling makes it unusable.
Check out the Brewspire vegan leather mat for the Ascaso. That solves the problem and prevents scratches
I have the same experience. Vibration is bad. When dispensing hot water, my cup moves around
I’m this price point there’s no reason to not go with the BDB
Other than longevity and build quality…. Which is a pretty big factor
@@LifestyleLab_ is the BKB known for not being reliable? also wondering on the difference between dual boiler vs thermacoil. i did notice you said coils were more energy efficient
Both machines are great. But I will stay with my sage Barista pro ;-)