Are you trying to decide between the La Marzocco Linea Mini and the new Micra? This post will dive deep into the specs and features of these two popular espresso machines, helping you make an informed decision that suits your needs best, whether you're setting up at home or in a professional environment.
Watch our Video Review.
Size and Space Considerations
One of the first noticeable differences between the Linea Mini and the Micra is their size. The Mini is significantly larger, making it an ideal choice for a café bar or a dedicated espresso bar at home. In contrast, the Micra, with its compact design, is perfect for those with limited counter space. Despite its smaller size, the Micra packs a punch, thanks to its smartly designed vertical boiler.
Boiler Sizes and Thermal Stability
The Linea Mini features a 3-liter steam and hot water boiler, while the Micra has a 1.6-liter boiler. Although the Micra’s boiler is smaller, its vertical orientation maximizes space efficiency. When it comes to the coffee boiler, the Micra has a 250 ml front brew boiler compared to the Mini’s 175 ml. While the Mini’s boiler may seem smaller, it compensates with a water bypass system and heat exchange that preheats the water to around 70-80°C before it enters the front boiler. This design ensures consistent brewing temperatures, a crucial factor in achieving the perfect espresso shot.
Both machines offer excellent thermal stability, thanks to La Marzocco's saturated coffee groups, which maintain temperature consistency for optimal espresso extraction.
Steam Pressure and Power
One of the standout features of both the Linea Mini and the Micra is their impressive steam power. Despite their size differences, both machines deliver the same high-quality, dry steam that La Marzocco is known for, even outperforming some of their commercial models. This steam power allows you to achieve silky, textured milk quickly, making these machines a favorite among those who enjoy milk-based espresso drinks.
Connectivity and Smart Features
Both the Linea Mini and the Micra are compatible with the La Marzocco Home app, which offers features like temperature control, shot timing, and more. However, there’s a notable difference in connectivity with the La Marzocco Acaia scale. The scale connects only with the Linea Mini, allowing you to program shot weight and automate your espresso brewing process.
Design and Customization
In terms of design, the Linea Mini and Micra share a similar aesthetic, with the Micra being a more compact version. Both machines offer a range of color options and customizable features, allowing you to tailor the machine to your personal style. The Mini offers a slightly higher brew head space, which can accommodate larger cups—a consideration if you prefer using bigger mugs at home or in a café setting.
Water Reservoir and Maintenance
The water reservoirs differ slightly, with the Mini holding 2.5 liters and the Micra holding 2 liters. Both machines have redesigned drip trays and water tanks, offering ease of use and maintenance. The Mini’s tank can now be completely removed for filling, and both machines have indicators to alert you when the drip tray needs emptying. Additionally, both machines feature rotary pumps that deliver consistent nine-bar pressure, essential for high-quality espresso extraction.
Portability and Power
The Micra is more portable, weighing in at 19 kilos compared to the Mini’s 30 kilos, making it a better option if you plan to move your machine frequently or take it on the go. Both machines run on a standard 10-amp power supply, making them easy to set up without needing special electrical installations.
Brewing Capacity and Speed
When it comes to brewing multiple coffees in quick succession, the Linea Mini has the advantage due to its larger boilers and heat exchange system, which allows it to produce more consecutive shots without a drop in temperature. The Micra, while still efficient, is better suited for smaller volumes, with an optimal output of around five coffees before the boiler needs to recover. This difference makes the Mini more suitable for busy environments, while the Micra excels in personal or small-group settings.
Final Thoughts
In summary, the La Marzocco Linea Mini is perfect for those who need a larger machine with more robust capabilities, ideal for higher volumes and larger cup sizes. Its advanced connectivity options and slightly more customizable features make it a great choice for espresso enthusiasts who love to experiment. On the other hand, the Micra is an excellent option for those who value space, portability, and quick heat-up times. Despite its smaller size, it delivers the same high-quality espresso that La Marzocco is famous for, making it a fantastic addition to any home or small café.
No matter which machine you choose, both the Linea Mini and the Micra are superbly crafted, Italian-made machines that will impress both you and your guests. If you have any further questions or need more detailed information, feel free to leave a comment below. And don’t forget to check out our other videos for more in-depth reviews and espresso tips!
