Lelit Mara X Espresso Machine

The MaraX is a robust, intermediate-level machine geared towards demanding home baristas, especially those who make multiple drinks at a time and need a consistent steamer. Among the heat-exchanger (HX) machines out there, we think the feature that sets the MaraX apart is its unique temperature controls. A temperature switch (placed out of view behind the drain tray) allows you to set one of three target temperatures, and a mode switch (on the right side panel) allows you to choose whether the machine prioritizes brewing temperature stability or steam power.

An intermediate-level machine, the MaraX’s added complexity felt less forgiving than the more manageable Victoria to start. But once we got everything figured out and the shots dialed in, the machine was a pleasure to use and felt closer to what we expect from commercial setups. The added mode switches overcome what people perceive as a major shortcoming of HX machines: the need to purge water before a shot to drop the brewing temperature.

Something else we really appreciate is the quiet pump operation. Next to the other Lelit model we offer, and frankly next to most other similarly priced HX machines we have used, the MaraX is a quiet wonder. Its temperature stability performs well; the dual thermal sensors seem to eliminate the need to temperature surf and allow for very reliable back-to-back shot pulling. For a machine at this price point, the build quality and finish does not disappoint. This thing feels like a chunk of steel next to the Victoria, and the MaraX’s included accessories (like the pretty decent tamper) are a step up as well.

We also like the design of the water reservoir, which is easy to fill in place or remove using convenient handles. It has integrated valves and filters, so there are no inconvenient hoses to move out of the way when taking out the reservoir. The double manometer shows both the pump and steam pressure, and is also quite attractive and clean. There are additionally two small LED status lights that show when the machine is heating and if the water tank needs a refill. Taken all together, the MaraX is an austere but handsome machine.

At the same time, the design which we are so quick to praise comes with some tradeoffs. For one, there’s no digital display or interface anywhere on the machine, which can make it hard to know exactly what the machine is up to. It also means that features like programmed on/off, shot timing, and any setting adjustments that fundamentally rely on a digital PID interface are out the window.

The heftiness of the machine, which we consider a pro and a sign of long term durability, also means that the warm up time is on the slower side. It takes a little over 20 minutes for us to go from turning the machine on, to a fully hot portafilter and group. The warmup time is also a byproduct of the E61-style grouphead which is fully mechanical and just a big chunk of metal that needs time to get hot.

These are quibbles though, and we mainly point them out so that people know what they’re getting into with this machine. We really enjoy working with the MaraX, and it’s obvious to us where the money was spent compared to the more affordable and approachable Victoria. We have even more information, a FAQ, additional photos, and other comments on our Coffee Library MaraX Page!

MaraX Technical Features:

• Group Head – E61-Style (L58E) group with pre-infusion
• Brewing System – Heat-exchanger with stainless steel boiler, dual probe temperature regulation thermosiphon circulation, and very quiet pump operation.
• Control – ON/OFF stainless steel back-lit switch
• Delivery wands – Insulated multidirectional steam and hot water wands, Steam boost, professional water-steam taps with spring closure
• Settings – Temperature configuration button (Warm - Hot - Extra Hot), mode setting button (Xmode coffee or Xmode steam), stand-by function
• LED lights on front interface – LED warning light for low water or missing tank and LED for machine status (ready, or warming up)
• Manometer – Double manometer for pump/steam pressure
• Construction Materials — Brushed stainless steel appliance body, polished black resin knobs and lever
• Additional features – Mug friendly, Cup warmer rack and drip tray with wire
• Capacity – Boiler 1.8 liter / Water reservoir 2.5 liter
• Heatup Time – Less than 24 minutes.
• Voltage – 120V 60 Hz | Plug B
• Dimensions –  8.9" wide x 14" tall x 16.5 inches deep (handle extends 4" beyond this depth to 20.5")
• Weight – 18.417 kg