Introduction
In our Ascaso Steel Duo PID review, we explore its key features, performance, and overall value to help you decide if this machine is the perfect fit for your coffee-making needs. The Ascaso Steel Duo PID combines professional-grade performance with user-friendly features, boasting a dual thermoblock system, intuitive PID temperature control, and a sleek stainless steel design. Join us as we uncover what makes this espresso machine a standout choice for both novice and experienced baristas.
Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Brand | Ascaso |
| Model | Steel Duo PID |
| Dimensions | 270mm (W) x 315mm (D) x 360mm (H) |
| Weight | 14 kg |
| Body Material | Stainless Steel |
| Boiler System | Dual Thermoblock |
| Pump Pressure | 20 bar |
| Water Tank Capacity | 2 liters |
| Temperature Control | PID (Proportional-Integral-Derivative) |
| Heating Time | Approximately 2-3 minutes |
| Group Head | 58mm Professional |
| Steam Wand | Yes, multi-directional |
| Hot Water Dispenser | Yes |
| Pre-infusion | Yes |
| Portafilter | 58mm, Brass |
| Included Accessories | Single & Double Shot Baskets, Tamper, Scooper, Cleaning Brush |
| Voltage | 110V – 240V |
| Power Consumption | 1050W |
| Color Options | Stainless Steel, Black, White |
| Warranty | 2 years |
| Best place to Buy | Buy on Amazon |
Build Quality
The build quality of the Ascaso Steel Duo PID is exceptional, featuring a durable stainless steel body that ensures longevity and a sleek, modern aesthetic. The machine’s components, including the 58mm professional group head and brass portafilter, are crafted for durability and consistent performance. Its dual thermoblock system not only provides efficient heating but also adds to the machine’s robust construction. Overall, the Ascaso Steel Duo PID is designed to withstand daily use while maintaining a high level of functionality and style.
Features and Functions
Dual Thermoblock System
The Ascaso Steel Duo PID boasts a dual thermoblock system, allowing for simultaneous brewing and steaming. This feature ensures rapid heating and consistent temperature control, which is crucial for extracting the perfect espresso and creating velvety milk froth without waiting between processes.
PID Temperature Control
Equipped with PID (Proportional-Integral-Derivative) temperature control, the machine offers precise management of water temperature. This precision is essential for achieving consistent extraction and optimal flavor from your coffee grounds, giving you barista-level control at home.
Stainless Steel Design
The machine’s sleek stainless steel design not only adds a touch of elegance to any kitchen but also ensures durability and easy maintenance. The robust construction reflects its professional-grade quality, making it a reliable choice for daily use.
58mm Professional Group Head
Featuring a 58mm professional group head, the Ascaso Steel Duo PID ensures even water distribution and stable temperature during extraction. This standard size is favored by professional baristas and helps achieve a uniform and rich espresso shot.
Multi-directional Steam Wand
The multi-directional steam wand is designed for versatility and ease of use, allowing you to create perfectly textured milk for lattes, cappuccinos, and other espresso-based drinks. Its flexibility helps you achieve the ideal milk froth consistency every time.
Hot Water Dispenser
In addition to its brewing and steaming capabilities, the machine includes a hot water dispenser. This feature is convenient for making Americanos, tea, and other hot beverages, enhancing the machine’s versatility.
Pre-infusion
The pre-infusion function gently moistens the coffee grounds before the full extraction process begins. This step helps to evenly saturate the grounds, resulting in a more balanced and flavorful espresso shot.
Large Water Tank
With a 2-liter water tank, the Ascaso Steel Duo PID is well-suited for frequent use, reducing the need for constant refilling. The ample capacity supports multiple brewing and steaming cycles, making it ideal for both single users and small gatherings.
Included Accessories
The machine comes with a range of accessories, including single and double shot baskets, a tamper, scooper, and cleaning brush. These tools enhance the user experience by providing everything needed to start brewing high-quality espresso right out of the box.
User Experiences with the Ascaso Steel Duo PID
The Ascaso Steel Duo PID Programmable Espresso Machine has received overwhelmingly positive feedback from users, particularly for its ability to elevate the coffee-making experience. One user, a coffee enthusiast who has tried numerous espresso machines, praises the machine for its impeccable design and build quality. The stainless steel body not only adds elegance to their kitchen but also ensures durability, giving a sense of sturdiness and longevity.
PID Temperature Control
Users are particularly impressed with the PID temperature control feature, which provides precise temperature management. This feature is crucial for consistently delivering perfect espresso shots, eliminating concerns over water temperature fluctuations. Many users highlight the rich, smooth espresso with delightful crema that the machine produces, rivaling those from high-end coffee shops.
Programmability
The machine’s programmability is another standout feature, allowing users to customize their espresso settings with ease. Whether for single or double shots, short or long pours, the intuitive interface makes it simple to save preferred settings. This flexibility caters to various tastes and preferences, making it a favorite for serving family and friends.
Steam Wand Performance
The steam wand receives high marks for its consistent steam power, which is essential for frothing milk for lattes and cappuccinos. Users appreciate its ease of use and the ability to produce perfectly textured milk, enhancing the overall coffee-making experience.
Customer Support
Customer support from Ascaso is also highlighted positively. Users report that the support team is prompt, knowledgeable, and helpful, especially when it comes to maintenance queries, providing clear instructions and guidance.
Value for Money
Despite its higher price tag, users feel that the Ascaso Steel Duo PID is worth every penny. They view it as an investment in a superior coffee experience at home, ultimately saving money and time that would otherwise be spent at coffee shops.
Minor Criticisms
While generally positive, some users mention minor drawbacks. One user noted that the LED lights are excessively bright and cannot be dimmed, which can be visually distracting. Another mentioned the complexity of the PID controller interface, which can be challenging to navigate. However, these issues are often resolved with minor adjustments or additional research.
Overall Satisfaction
Overall, users are very satisfied with the Ascaso Steel Duo PID. It is praised for its quick heat-up time, quiet operation, and ability to produce high-quality espresso consistently. The combination of robust build quality, precise temperature control, and user-friendly features makes it a top choice for serious coffee enthusiasts. Many users, including those who have owned numerous espresso machines, consider it one of the best in its price range, especially when paired with a good grinder and quality beans.
In summary, the Ascaso Steel Duo PID is highly regarded by users for its build quality, performance, and the enhanced coffee experience it provides. Despite some minor criticisms, it is widely recommended for those serious about their coffee.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Impeccable design and build quality
- Durable stainless steel body
- Precise PID temperature control
- Consistently delivers perfect espresso shots
- Rich, smooth espresso with delightful crema
- Customizable espresso settings for user preferences
- Easy-to-use programmable interface
- Consistent steam power for frothing milk
- Easy to clean steam wand
- Prompt and knowledgeable customer support
- Quick heat-up time
- Quiet operation
- High-quality espresso consistently
- Viewed as a good investment for serious coffee enthusiasts
Cons:
- Higher price tag
- Excessively bright LED lights that cannot be dimmed
- Complex PID controller interface that can be challenging to navigate
Who is this machine best for?
The Ascaso Steel Duo PID machine is best suited for serious coffee enthusiasts who value precision and consistency in their espresso brewing. It’s ideal for those who appreciate high-quality build materials and robust construction, ensuring durability and longevity. This machine is perfect for users who enjoy customizing their espresso settings, as its programmability caters to diverse taste preferences and allows for easy adjustments.
Home baristas who frequently prepare milk-based drinks like lattes and cappuccinos will benefit from its powerful and reliable steam wand. Additionally, individuals who prefer a sleek and modern design that complements their kitchen decor will find the stainless steel body particularly appealing.
This machine is also a great fit for those who seek a professional-grade espresso experience at home without the need to visit coffee shops regularly. Its user-friendly interface and supportive customer service make it accessible to both experienced and novice users. Overall, the Ascaso Steel Duo PID is ideal for anyone looking to invest in a premium espresso machine that delivers exceptional performance and flexibility.
Final verdict – Is the Ascaso Steel Duo PID machine worth it?
Yes, the Ascaso Steel Duo PID machine is worth it, particularly for serious coffee enthusiasts and home baristas looking for a high-quality, durable, and versatile espresso machine. Its precise PID temperature control ensures consistently excellent espresso shots, while its robust stainless steel construction guarantees longevity and a sleek aesthetic.
The machine’s programmability allows for customization of espresso settings, catering to a variety of taste preferences, and its powerful steam wand is perfect for creating well-textured milk for lattes and cappuccinos. Despite a few minor criticisms, such as the bright LED lights and the complexity of the PID interface, the overall performance and user satisfaction with the Ascaso Steel Duo PID are exceptionally high.
Given its advanced features, reliable customer support, and the ability to produce café-quality espresso at home, the Ascaso Steel Duo PID is a worthy investment for those serious about their coffee. It offers excellent value for its price, ultimately saving money and time that would be spent at coffee shops while providing a superior coffee experience.
Alternative to the Ascaso Duo PID: Rancilio Silvia PID
Thanks for taking your time out to read our thoroughly researched Review. We trust it gave you enough insight and truths to help you make that informed decision. Join us again for more of the latest machines and news about the coffee machine world. We post almost every day! Thanks again.
(all images courtesy of the Ascaso Company)
Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Brand | Ascaso |
| Model | Steel Duo PID |
| Dimensions | 270mm (W) x 315mm (D) x 360mm (H) |
| Weight | 14 kg |
| Body Material | Stainless Steel |
| Boiler System | Dual Thermoblock |
| Pump Pressure | 20 bar |
| Water Tank Capacity | 2 liters |
| Temperature Control | PID (Proportional-Integral-Derivative) |
| Heating Time | Approximately 2-3 minutes |
| Group Head | 58mm Professional |
| Steam Wand | Yes, multi-directional |
| Hot Water Dispenser | Yes |
| Pre-infusion | Yes |
| Portafilter | 58mm, Brass |
| Included Accessories | Single & Double Shot Baskets, Tamper, Scooper, Cleaning Brush |
| Voltage | 110V – 240V |
| Power Consumption | 1050W |
| Color Options | Stainless Steel, Black, White |
| Warranty | 2 years |
| Best place to Buy | Buy on Amazon |