Scroll to read more

Espresso making is a complex hobby. It has lots of dogmas, jargon, and the equipment is typically not cheap. Besides, that’s part of its appeal. Realize that in the espresso world, no equipment is more elegant and sophisticated than the manual (lever) espresso machine.

Today, espresso makers are more advanced. They’ve adopted refined methods to offer an authentic press. Realize that low-cost espresso machines do not last long, which makes all your investment futile. Although the art of coffee brewing has gone mainstream this skill remains a territory for true aficionados.

So, if you’re starting to expand your daily coffee brewing experience into one of an expert – buying one of these manual machines will set you on the right path. We’ve done detailed research to help you trim down your selection from the numerous products available in the espresso world.

La Pavoni Espresso Machines : Overview

The La Pavoni espresso machines are manually (lever) operated espresso makers that are intended to brew the best espresso.  

Bestseller No. 1
La Pavoni PC-16 Professional Espresso Machine, Chrome Black
92 Reviews
La Pavoni PC-16 Professional Espresso Machine, Chrome Black
  • Note: 1)Too coarse a grind, too little coffee, or insufficiently tamping the grounds before brewing can all lead to inadequate pressure for a proper brew. 2)It is important to note that the amount of espresso extracted will vary depending on the grind size and amount and reprogramming may be needed when the size and amount are adjusted
Bestseller No. 2
La Pavoni EPC-8 Europiccola 8-Cup Lever Style Espresso Machine, Chrome
  • Ideal for making coffee specialty drinks at home
  • Sturdy all-steel construction under heavy chrome plating
  • Comes with tamper, screen, screen holder, measuring ladle, and cappuccino attachment
  • Also includes instructional video for getting started
  • Measures 11 by 7 by 12 inches; 1-year warranty
Bestseller No. 3
La Pavoni PSW-16 Stradavari 16-Cup Espresso Machine, Chrome with Wood Handles,Silver
  • Featuring a 38-Ounce boiler capacity
  • Makes 16, 2oz cups of espresso
  • Recessed power switch and power button
  • Dual frothing cappuccino systems
  • Solid Brass Boilers are Triple Chrome Plated

Last update on 2023-05-26 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Regardless of the model you settle for, you must understand your “machine” well. Once you have a clear understanding of how it works, you’ll know whether any of these espresso makers are what you need or not.

Realize that La Pavoni Espresso Machine offers a series of machines meaning there are many of them. Again, having too many options can lead to confusion. This then leads to people getting the wrong equipment. In such an instance, what’s your way out?

Start by finding out about each of the machines thoroughly and understand what each La Pavoni Espresso Machine offers. Armed with this information, you’ll be able to make the most suitable choice of an espresso machine. Below are nine models of La Pavoni Espresso Machines that are trending on the market in 2020.

9 Best La Pavoni Espresso Machines In 2020

La Pavoni ESPAB-16 Esperto “Abile” Espresso Machine

La Pavoni ESPAB-16 Esperto 'Abile' Espresso Machine, Chrome, 16 Cups Capacity, Larger 38 Ounce Boilers with Mounted Pressure Gauge

Last update on 2023-05-29 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

La Pavoni ESPAB-16 Esperto Espresso Machine is a high-end and expensive machine than your best coffee maker. But, if you’re a serious espresso lover, investing a little more in a reliable espresso machine is a necessity.

This machine look stunning. It has a brewing capacity of 38oz broiler enough to make 16 espresso shots per single cycle.

Since it holds more servings, its internal thermostat is made to heat up fast and maintain the perfect temperature for brewing the best tasting coffee.

The valuable materials and the chance of a constant monitoring of the brewing pressure carried out by pulling down the lever, allow even the most demanding users to brew a customized espresso through repeatable extraction curves.

Pros
  • Brewing pressure profiling

  • Group Temperature indicator

  • Makes 16 shots between refills

  • Durable build to last for decades if maintained properly

  • Easily customizable and broken parts easy to replace

Cons
  • It’s not worthy to buy if you are not a truly coffee lover, because it’s very expensive

  • Has low-quality grinder and tamper

La Pavoni EPC-8 Europiccola Espresso Machine

Last update on 2023-05-29 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

This la Pavoni Europiccola EPC 8 espresso machine is a direct lever machine. It is the same equipment that was sold by La Pavoni in the 1950s, except it’s been updated over the years.

This La Pavoni Espresso Machine is a sturdy machine 12-inches x 7-inches in size.  

Plus its all-steel construction and triple chrome plating finishing is a great addition to any kitchen. Its elegant retro style is finished with a solid base. Besides, it has a highly polished finish that is offset beautifully with black trim.

Since it operated using an easy lever-style and a pull-down coffee compressor, you’ll be able to make coffee to suit your tastes. This espresso maker includes a tamper for stuffing down the coffee grounds to quickly make the perfect brew without any issues.

If you like your milk to be foamy, the 1994 la Pavoni espresso machine has a modified automatic steam tap that helps make you that perfect cup of cappuccino.

When you frequently clean and maintain your la Pavoni europiccola lever espresso machine chrome base, it can last for a long time. 

Pros
  • Sturdy and durable machine
  • Heats to the right temperature quickly
  • Can be customized easily and finding replacement parts is easy
Cons
  • Has a steamer with a slightly lower temperature compared to most machines
  • Fewer built-in new technology pieces (lacks gauges, etc)

La Pavoni PC-16 Professional Espresso Machine

La Pavoni PC-16 Professional Espresso Machine, Chrome Black

Last update on 2023-05-29 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

If you enjoy a foamy and creamy cappuccino, you can use this machine to make just that. The PC-16 Professional Espresso Machine is a small and sleek coffee machine thus it easily fits in the smallest spaces. With a base that comes in two shades, you can now choose your preferred color– chrome or black.

The gauge is placed at the top portion, while the on/off switch is placed on the sides. The lever ends have a plastic finishing which complements the metallic shade.

The use of a piston in the brewing of espresso allows you to improvise. This means that no one knows yet how to brew their perfect kind of espresso. But with the piston setup, you’ll have a hands-on experience on ways of making espresso. With time you’ll know what the perfect cup of espresso tastes like.

One advantage of using the PC-16 professional espresso machine is you get to choose how fast and strong you’ll pump as it is piston-operated. Even then, you can’t come up with your style if using this espresso machine in one sitting. Realize that it’ll take more time, however, it will be a fun experience.

Pros
  • Durable and compact design
  • Easy storage thanks to its small footprint
  • Includes an efficient internal thermostat for monitoring brewing temperature
  • Adjustable strength and speed of the pump to fully customize your brew
Cons
  • Needs much of your input lots as it is manually operated
  • Gets extra hot that it hinders refilling of water and anything else unless you first let it cool

La Pavoni PBB-16 Professional

La Pavoni PBB-16 Professional 16 Cup Espresso Lever Machine, 38-Ounce Boiler Capacity, Chrome with Black Base

Last update on 2023-05-29 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

The “La Pavoni PBB-16 Professional” is a really great espresso coffee machine, for people who enjoy drinking their well flavored and tasty coffee each day. Although it’s pretty expensive, the quality and the design of the machine will not disappoint you.

This espresso maker has a 38 oz capacity, which can provide you up to 16 cups of espresso coffee at once. A very nice and important feature for La Pavoni PBB-16 Professional is the internal re-set switch in case of overheating.

The entire La Pavoni Espresso Machine is made from nickel plated, solid brass boilers, and this is rarely the case for most espresso machine, which will make your machine last longer than the other coffee machines.

Some of the key features you can find for this device are: mounted pressure gauge, nickel plated, solid brass boilers, and also, it is piston operated.

Pros
  • Compact design
  • Has a water tank capacity of 38 oz
  • Internal thermostat to control pressure
  • Internal re-set switch in case of overheating
  • It is made of nickel plated, solid brass boilers
Cons
  • It is very expensive

La Pavoni ESW-8 Stradavari

Last update on 2023-05-29 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

The La Pavoni ESW-8 Stradivari version of espresso coffee machine is a design inspiration drawn from the world famous violin maker Antonio Stradivari. It was created in celebration of La Pavoni’s 100 years producing the finest espresso/cappuccino makers.

It, has a big boiler with a capacity of 20 oz, ready to prepare 8 cups of espresso at once. Launched in 2005, this espresso maker has a similar working to that of the original Europiccola from the 1950s.

Pros
  • Reset fuse
  • Recessed power switch and power button
  • Dual frothing cappuccino systems
  • Has wooden knobs and handles
Cons
  • Heats up pretty fast to operate
  • Not ideal for beginners

La Pavoni PSW-16 Stradivari

La Pavoni PSW-16 Stradavari 16-Cup Espresso Machine, Chrome with Wood Handles,Silver

Last update on 2023-05-29 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

The La Pavoni PSW-16 Stradivari is an additional classic design of the La Pavoni espresso machines.

It’s a manual-lever espresso maker made using chrome and wooden handles. While the Professional version has black bakelite handles. La Pavoni’s PSW-16 Stradivari machine is lacquer coated to help prevent scratches and comes with a chrome eagle on its dome.

This espresso maker can brew 16 espresso cups at once. Plus it has a dual frothing cappuccino system. Additionally, it includes both automatic and manual steam wands.

The La Pavoni espresso machine is beautifully designed and makes a powerful device for brewing espresso.

Pros
  • Durable and beautiful design
  • Large water capacity
  • Includes dual steam wands
Cons
  • Needs electricity
  • Comes with exposed heating elements
  • Steep learning curve

Commercial Volumetric BAR-STAR 2V La Pavoni Espresso Machine

La Pavoni Bar-Star 2V-R 2-Group Volumetric Commercial Espresso Machine, 14L Boiler Water Capacity, Red

Last update on 2023-05-29 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Baristas can simultaneously prepare two espressos using the la Pavoni bar star 2v commercial espresso machine. With its 14-liter boiler, this espresso maker can handle huge volumes of business in the morning or midday rushes.

Though it stands 31 inches wide, this espresso machine is, in addition, the most economical equipment when it comes to space usage. And this comes in handy for shops with limited counter space or on crowded countertops. 

It includes a water softener which helps make hard water soft by eliminating minerals thus purifying the water. Realize that the purer your water the better your espresso will taste.

Note that Espresso machines can use up so much power, but the Bar star 2V espresso maker includes an energy-saving switch that works surprisingly well.

This machine has a simple design with a digital control pad and a few buttons to allow you to use it even better. Therefore, you don’t have to take time trying to operate the machine as your customers wait.

Overall, this espresso machine delivers exactly what it promises and even gives you and your customers some of the best and freshest products ever.

When it comes to the design, this can be a disadvantage for people who don’t have space for the cherry red retro style coffee machine. However, there’s the option of one in black that could match the modern/rustic style.

Pros
  • Digital controls

  • Programmable dosing

  • Large boiler capacity

  • Water softener included

  • Energy-saving mode

Cons
  • Not suitable for large coffee shops or cafes

  • A bit pricey

  • Not ideal for beginners

La Pavoni EPBB-8 Europiccola

Last update on 2023-05-29 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Another excellent espresso maker on our list is the La Pavoni EPBB-8 Europiccola espresso machine. It includes a boiler capacity of 20oz that gives you 8 cups of espresso, two or one cups at a time.

This stylish machine are built to last and designed to give you constant, perfect espresso with each pull of the lever. It is steam pressure and piston operated, while internal thermostats continuously monitor pressure with re-set fuses.

The device also includes automatic milk foamer, measuring spoon, and 2 stainless steel filter baskets. The durable triple-plated chrome design with chrome base, nickel-plated, solid brass boilers water-level gauge and safety valve, and the long life stainless steel heating elements will make this device last for a very long period of time.

The machine’s sleek, retro look sports shiny surfaces, a thick base with curved edges, and a pull-down coffee compressor. It’s attractive enough to leave out on the counter (and really too heavy to move around frequently), and once you get used to inexpensive lattes at home, you’ll want it handy for everyday use.

Pros
  • The perfect machine for brewing espresso and cappuccino
  • Huge boiler capacity that makes about 8 cups per refill
  • Includes an internal reset switch to prevent overheating
Cons
  • Has a complex setup, not easy for beginners
  • Quite pricey

Which La Pavoni Espresso Machine Model Will You Pick?

For those who love and cherish the art of making coffee, and especially Espressos, then the La Pavoni Espresso Machines are worth your attention and investment. Realize that manual Espresso Machines demand lots of effort, so if you’re ready to make the investment – be sure that you are prepared to put in the work as well.

Although these machines aren’t the cheapest, they, however, hold the heritage and charm of over a century of Milanese passion and design. What’s more, they’ll give you a dynamite espresso. You may be planning to go beyond enjoying a good espresso or are looking to explore the world of high-quality espresso. 

Depending on your needs, what will determine whether it’s worth investing in higher-cost espresso models is the type of shot you’re seeking. If you aren’t sure yet about what you wish to get out of a shot of espresso, it’s advisable that you start with the simpler coffee machine and then move up as your tastes expand.

Meanwhile, you can enjoy espressos that taste similar to what you’d buy at your local coffee shop. Plus you will in the process save a lot of money.

How To Pick The Best Manual Espresso Maker (Guide)

Congratulations for reading this far. And to help make your time worthwhile, next we’ll be giving you a few tips on how you can select the best espresso maker that will make you the best cup of espresso you’ve ever had.

Budget vs. Quality of Coffee — Lever coffee makers are available at different prices and varying types. Thus, it’s important that you consider whether you’re prepared to gamble for great coffee. And you may be satisfied with taking a good cup of coffee made using a cheaper coffee maker. 

Setup instructions — Realize that espresso makers are one of the most complex coffee makers since they often have more parts to give you more control over your espresso. Therefore, don’t complain if things don’t work out as easily the first time you run the machine. But, it’s good that you have a comprehensive manual to go with your machine. This will save your day.

Additional Features to Consider

Above we have looked at some key factors you’ll have to remember when you’re shopping for an espresso machine. However, other models will include some additional features that may be appealing to you as you’re looking for a machine. Here’s a look at additional features that you could consider.

Water Filter

Note that the flavor of your espresso will be influenced by the quality of water you’ll use. Therefore, getting an espresso machine with a built-in water filter will help ensure any additional flavors your water may have won’t change the taste of drinks you make.

In-Built Coffee Grinder

Having freshly ground coffee makes a huge difference in the flavor of your brew. Also, having a grinder as a part of your coffee machine can give you more convenience and even save on counter space. This element is great for people with limited counter space or for anyone who doesn’t want to purchase a separate coffee beans grinder.

Frothing Wand

This feature can be found in most espresso machines. However, if you prefer espresso drinks with steamed milk, then this is an absolute must-have. So, you wouldn’t want to get a machine without it.

Programmable Settings

After you’ve determined how you best enjoy your espresso, you can program your coffee machine. This makes it easier for you in the future. There are a few machines that let you program the settings for many people. That means everyone in your family will brew their perfect espresso shot more easily.

FAQs

What’s a Manual Espresso Maker?

This machine is classically designed and stands out both in functionality and aesthetics. The manual espresso maker gives a barista the most control when it comes to steam pressure, grind, tamp, temperature, and duration of extraction to give you the perfect espresso shot.

What’s The Best Pressure For An Espresso Maker?

The industry’s standard best pressure is at 9 bars for espresso machines. Still, you’ll come across machines that are advertising a higher pressure. Despite this, the sweet spot for manual espresso makers is between 7 – 9 bars.

Can You Use Regular Coffee Beans For making Espresso?

The duration that coffee beans take through the entire roasting process will determine their dark, light, and medium roast complexities. For non-pressure brewing style, the light roasts are ideal while the dark roast is perfect for brewing espresso. Although you could use regular beans for making an espresso however the results may not be what you seek in the best espresso shot.

Which Is The Best Grind For Espresso?

Espresso needs a fine grind that allows water to flow through the filter while creating a good crema. Crema is the tasty layer of froth that is formed on the surface of that perfect shot. On the whole, your coffee grind shouldn’t be too fine as it will block your coffee filter. And this will give you a bitter-tasting brew.

Get Best Coffee Guides and Offers

Sign up for our coffee insights