La Marzocco Strada X1

The Strada X1 is a saturated group with its own 1.3-liter boiler, kept separate from the 3.5-liter steam boiler, so brew and steam temperatures can be set independently. A dual PID governs the two temperatures independently.

The machine runs three brewing modes: manual, a saved pressure profile, or automatic with a target weight read from scales built into the drip tray. The paddle auto-tunes to the pressure applied by the user and gives real-time feedback during a manual pull. Portafilters insert straight into the group instead of twisting in; an automatic flush cleans the group after every coffee.

A hot-water economizer lets you adjust the temperature used for rinsing, and the steam wands stay cool to the touch even during use; the drip tray is wide, with room to set down cups and cleaning cloths while working. It's a machine for anyone who wants to control pressure and weight in the cup at home, and has the space and electrical setup for it.