Host Milan 2025: Four Espresso Machines That Stand Out

Introduction

Host Milan 2025 brought together some of the most innovative espresso machine designs in recent years. Four machines stand out for their thoughtful engineering and practical features that address real brewing challenges.

Rocket R58 Tune: Pressure Profiling and Retrofit Options

The Rocket R58 Tune introduces a pressure profiling group head option alongside the standard group head. The key innovation is retrofitability: the pressure profiling kit can be installed on older Rocket models, solving a common problem for existing owners seeking upgrades.

The machine features a raised interface panel that improves visibility and usability compared to lower-mounted controls. Larger feet provide a more grounded, commercial appearance suitable for office or café environments. The chassis uses anti-rust metal throughout, with stainless steel or black finish options. A new steam wand and bump tap for purging add practical convenience to the steaming workflow.

ECM Estetika: Dual-Boiler with Volumetric Control

The Estetika represents ECM’s entry into volumetric control for the home market. It features dual boilers that can operate independently or together, allowing users to disable the rear boiler when brewing espresso only, reducing power consumption.

The heated brew group uses a digital PID controller with adjustable water temperature via menu system. Programmable on/off timing and volumetric shot programming for single, double, or manual modes provide precise control. A full LCD display manages all functions, including shot timer and lighting. The machine supports direct plumbing with a rotary pump. A standout feature is the combination 3-in-1 portafilter that includes double and single spouts, with a removable design that converts to a bottomless portafilter. Cool-touch wands with nylon acetal tips ensure safe steaming.

ECM Discover: Heated Brew Group and Dual-Boiler Design

The Discover uses the same heated brew group technology as the Estetika but in a different machine architecture. It features one coffee boiler and one hot water/steam boiler, with the brew group equipped with two heating elements that allow temperature adjustment across a range suitable for different roast profiles.

The 6-litre steam boiler reaches up to 134°C, providing substantial steam power. The brew group boiler holds 0.75 litres on two-group models. The machine operates at 15 amps, making it suitable for caravans or portable café vendors. Shot timers, cool-touch wands with food-grade acetal tips, and the same 3-in-1 portafilter system as the Estetika ensure consistent usability and safety.

Lelit Mara X3: Compact Design with Variable Flow Control

The Mara X3 refines the compact HX formula with aesthetic and functional upgrades. The smoked wood finish on handles is new, with longer handles and balanced weighting for improved ergonomics. Larger knobs and a redesigned brew group lever enhance usability.

The standout feature is the Pagaia, a variable flow control lever on the side of the machine. Rather than using a traditional variable valve, it adjusts the power supplied to the vibration pump, effectively changing the pressure applied to the coffee bed without the performance issues that come from restricting flow on a vibration pump. This approach brings advanced pressure control to an entry-level HX machine.

Available in stainless steel, black, and white finishes with smoked wood accents, the Mara X3 is scheduled for release later in 2026.

Conclusion

These four machines demonstrate how espresso machine design continues to evolve. Retrofit options, volumetric control, heated brew groups, and innovative flow management all address real brewing needs without unnecessary complexity. Each machine suits different priorities: the R58 Tune for those seeking pressure profiling, the Estetika for volumetric precision, the Discover for flexible temperature management, and the Mara X3 for compact spaces with advanced flow control.