La Marzocco Linea Micra vs Ascaso Steel Duo PID
Quick take: The Ascaso Steel Duo PID costs $1,605 less; the Ascaso Steel Duo PID heats up faster (3.5 minutes).
| Spec | La Marzocco Linea Micra | Ascaso Steel Duo PID |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $3,700 | $2,095 |
| Rating | 4.8★ (280) | 4.8★ (37) |
| Type | Semi-Automatic | Semi-Automatic |
| Boiler | Dual Boiler | Thermoblock |
| Built-in grinder | No | No |
| Pump pressure | 9 bar | 16 bar |
| Water capacity | Plumb-in or 1.5L tank | 67 oz |
| Warm-up time | 10 minutes | 3.5 minutes |
| Steam wand | Manual | Manual |
| Basket type | Unpressurized | Pressurized & Unpressurized |
| Best for | Enthusiasts | Enthusiasts |
| Dimensions | 13.7 x 13.5 x 14 in | 11.1 x 12.4 x 14.8 in |
| Weight | 37 lbs | 31.8 lbs |
| Warranty | 2 years | 1 year (5 years on thermoblocks) |
Pros & cons
La Marzocco Linea Micra
- ✓True commercial dual boiler in compact size
- ✓App-controlled temperature and schedule
- ✓Plumb-in or tank options
- ✓LM build quality and longevity
- ✓Excellent steam power
- ✗Very expensive
- ✗Long warm-up time
- ✗No PID display on machine itself
- ✗Heavy for size
Ascaso Steel Duo PID
- ✓Dual thermoblocks brew and steam simultaneously without a heavy boiler
- ✓Ready in about 3.5 minutes versus 20+ for comparable dual boilers
- ✓One-degree PID adjustment plus programmable pre-infusion and volumetrics
- ✓Gorgeous Barcelona-built stainless body with walnut wood accents
- ✗2000W draw needs a 20-amp circuit in US kitchens
- ✗Steam power trails true dual boilers like the Breville Dual Boiler
- ✗Thermoblock shots need more workflow care than saturated groups
- ✗Premium price for a machine without flow control