La Marzocco Linea Mini Gets Smarter: Exploring the Latest Updates

Here at Artisti Coffee Roasters in Toormina, we've had the pleasure of getting our hands on the latest iteration of a home espresso icon: the La Marzocco Linea Mini. Beloved for its commercial-grade performance in a compact footprint, the Linea Mini has just received a couple of noteworthy upgrades, and we're excited to share what's new.

For those already familiar with the Linea Mini, you'll be happy to know that the core of what makes this machine so exceptional remains untouched. You still get the same dual-boiler system, the option for direct plumbing, those beautifully crafted drip trays, and the promise of consistently delicious espresso that La Marzocco is renowned for.

However, the newest model brings two key enhancements that elevate the Linea Mini's usability and modern appeal:

The Welcome Addition of a Cool Touch Steam Wand:

A feature now making its way across the La Marzocco home lineup is the cool touch steam wand. This double-walled stainless steel design is a fantastic upgrade for safety and comfort. You can confidently maneuver the wand without the risk of burning your fingers. It's a seemingly small detail, but for anyone who frequently steams milk, it's a significant improvement in the overall user experience. Just a friendly reminder though – the very tip of the wand isn't double-insulated, so it can still get quite hot.

Smart Coffee: IoT Integration with the La Marzocco Home App:

The most significant update lies beneath the surface: the integration of a new main board equipped with IoT (Internet of Things) technology. This smart addition allows you to connect your Linea Mini to the La Marzocco Home App on your smartphone, unlocking a range of convenient and insightful features.

So, what can you do with the app?

• Remote Control: Power your Linea Mini on or off from anywhere. Imagine preheating your machine on your commute home so it's ready to go the moment you walk in the door!

• Brew Monitoring: Keep track of your brewing activity, including the number of water dispenses and actual espresso extractions.

• Temperature Adjustment: Fine-tune your brew water temperature directly from the app, giving you greater control over your extractions.

• Brewing Insights & Tips: The app provides access to valuable tips and guides to help you improve your home barista skills and get the most out of your machine.

• Future Potential: As with any software-driven feature, we anticipate that the functionality of the La Marzocco Home App will continue to expand with future updates, offering even more control and insights over time.

Retrofit Option Available:

If you're the proud owner of an older Linea Mini model without IoT, you're in luck! La Marzocco offers a retrofitted kit that allows you to upgrade your machine and enjoy the benefits of app connectivity. These kits are readily available online and are designed for relatively straightforward DIY installation.

A Word of Caution on Temperature Control:

It's important to note that the IoT temperature control via the app and the manual temperature dial on the side of the machine can sometimes interact in unexpected ways. Our understanding is that if the physical dial is set to a higher temperature than what you're trying to achieve through the app, the machine might not respond as expected.

Our recommendation is to keep the manual dial in a mid-range position and primarily rely on the La Marzocco Home App for temperature adjustments. If you encounter any issues, try turning the machine off, lowering the dial setting, and then turning it back on. The machine should then adopt the last temperature setting it received, whether from the app or the dial.

It's also worth noting that the manual dial, tucked away on the side, can sometimes be inadvertently nudged while wiping down the machine. So, it's a good practice to periodically check its position.

Bundled Barista Accessories:

Just like previous models, the new Linea Mini is often available with an optional barista accessories pack. This typically includes essential tools to get you started, such as a tamper, a milk pitcher, and a couple of portafilter handles. It's a great starting point, and you can always expand your toolkit with more specialized items as your home barista journey progresses.

In Conclusion:

The latest updates to the La Marzocco Linea Mini are thoughtful additions that enhance both the user experience and the level of control you have over your espresso. The cool touch steam wand is a welcome safety and comfort feature, while the IoT integration opens up a world of convenience and data-driven brewing possibilities.

If you're considering investing in a premium home espresso machine, the updated La Marzocco Linea Mini remains a top contender. And if you're an existing owner looking to add smart functionality to your setup, the retrofit kit is a compelling option.

Have you experienced the updated La Marzocco Linea Mini or used the La Marzocco Home App? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!