Buying advice & comparison
Bezzera portafilter machines 2026: Which one is right for you? (Buying advice, comparison & models)
Bezzera is one of Italy's most traditional espresso machine manufacturers – known for robust technology, great value for money and (depending on the model) very short heating times. In this 2026 buying guide, you will find quick decision-making help, model recommendations and answers to typical questions – with direct links to the appropriate machines.
Godirectly to the Bezzera collection: View all Bezzera portafilter machines
Quick selection: Find the right Bezzera in 30 seconds
I almost exclusively drink espresso (without milk)
Then you want maximum reproducibility and temperature control – single-circuit machines with (optional) PID are ideal. If you want to upgrade later: Flow Control can be retrofitted to E61 brew groups.
- Bezzera Luce (classic, compact)
- Bezzera Luce PID (more control over temperature)
I often make cappuccino/latte
Then a dual-circuit or dual-boiler machine is worthwhile, because you can make espresso and froth milk at the same time. For "more convenience," DE (volumetric) is interesting.
I want technology & features (display, profiles, more control)
Then the "Top" models are exciting – often with more control, more convenience, and, depending on the version, volumetric control.
MN vs. DE: What does this mean – and which is better?
At Bezzera, MN stands for the manual version (manual start/stop), while DE typically refers to the volumetric version with automatic dosing (buttons/programming). In short: MN = maximum "hands-on, " DE = more convenience & reproducibility.
| Question | MN (manual) | DE (volumetric) |
|---|---|---|
| Operation | You start/stop the brewing yourself. | You use programmable brewing buttons (quantity/volume). |
| Who is it for? | Purists, those eager to learn, experimenters. | Everyday use, multiple users in the household, consistency click. |
| Result | Perfect if you already work with scales/timers. | Very convenient – but scales/fine tuning are still useful. |
PID & flow control: When is it worthwhile?
PID (temperature control)
PID is particularly worthwhile if you frequently change beans, drink light roasts, or want reproducible shots. With "PID" models, you typically have finer control over the brewing temperature.
Flow Control (flow/pressure control)
Important: Flow control can be retrofitted to all E61 brew groups – this is ideal if you want to experiment with pre-infusion/pressure profiling later on without having to buy a new machine setup right away. The Bezzera Flow Control Kit is specifically designed for E61 brew groups and is intended as a retrofit. [oai_citation:1‡Natur Bohne GmbH](https://naturbohne.de/de-at/products/bezzera-flow-control-kit-e61?utm_source=chatgpt.com)
2026 models at Naturbohne: brief overview with links
Bezzera Luce
For whom: Espresso focus, compact setup, clear operation.
Why: solid basis without overkill – ideal as an entry-level "real portafilter" machine with Bezzera DNA.
Bezzera Luce PID
For whom: Espresso purists who want to control the temperature precisely.
Why: PID = more consistency, easier bean change, less "guesswork."
Bezzera Aria (Classic / Top)
For whom: Espresso + milk drinks, "classic Italian" workflow feeling.
Why: good mix of performance, everyday use, and value—especially for cappuccino/latte at home.
Bezzera Aria S MN
For whom: Fans of manual operation who want the Aria line in a clear MN version.
Why: MN = manual, good for users who work with scales/timers anyway.
Bezzera Aria Top MN PID
For whom: Milk drinks + more control, but deliberately "hands-on" (MN).
Why: PID + top features – for people who want control without needing "DE automatic" right away.
Bezzera Sole Top PID MN
For whom: Discerning home baristas with a focus on stability and repeatability.
Why: Top features + PID, MN for the direct barista workflow.
Bezzera Matrix Top MN
For whom: Feature and design fans who want "high-end at home."
Why: Matrix often stands for modern operating/feature logic – ideal if you like to fine-tune.
FAQ: Typical questions before purchasing (short & practical)
What distinguishes Bezzera from Rocket?
Bezzera is often more pragmatic (technology/price-performance) and has faster operating times depending on the brew group. Rocket traditionally places a lot of focus on design/fit & finish. Espresso quality ultimately depends heavily on the grinder, beans, and setup – both brands can be excellent.
BZ brew group vs. E61 – is there a huge difference in taste?
In practice, the difference is usually smaller than expected. More relevant are temperature stability in the workflow, heat-up time, maintenance, and whether you want to use flow control (E61 is "ecosystem-strong" here).
Flow Control: Can I retrofit this later?
Yes – with E61 brew groups, it can generally be retrofitted. The Bezzera Flow Control Kit is explicitly designed for E61 and is described as a retrofit. [oai_citation:2‡Natur Bohne GmbH](https://naturbohne.de/de-at/products/bezzera-flow-control-kit-e61?utm_source=chatgpt.com)
MN or DE: Which is "better"?
It's more a question of style: MN is manual (barista workflow), DE offers volumetric dosing/convenience. [oai_citation:3‡Mondo del Caffè](https://mondodelcaffe.de/en/products/bezzera-duo-top-mn-manuelle-dosierung-espressomaschine?utm_source=chatgpt.com)
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When is it really worth buying (or upgrading) a coffee grinder?