Test and Review of the Lelit 41 TEM PID – Manual Espresso Machine with PID

Discover our complete review of the Lelit 41 TEM PID, a manual espresso machine that combines retro design, modern technology, and precise thermal control thanks to its PID. Ideal for home coffee enthusiasts who want to customize their extraction, it promises a rich and authentic coffee experience.

Why I chose the Lelit 41 TEM PID

Recently passionate about the world of coffee, I excluded automatic machines to favor the preparation ritual. After extensive research and comparisons, my choice fell on the Lelit 41 TEM PID for its quality/price ratio and its promising technical characteristics.

Description and technical specifications

The Lelit 41 TEM PID is a manual espresso machine equipped with a PID (electronic temperature regulation) and an extraction pressure gauge.
It features a 250 ml boiler and a three-way solenoid valve.

Design and finish

A stainless steel body, compact dimensions, and retro switches: the design is both discreet and elegant.
Whether your kitchen is modern or classic, it integrates easily.

The role of the PID

The PID allows you to regulate the temperature to the degree, which optimizes extraction depending on the chosen coffee.

Real-World Testing

Temperature set to 95°C: the water first heats to 100°C then quickly drops back down.
The stabilization time is short, but the small boiler size results in a slight temperature drop during extraction.

The Extraction Pressure Gauge

The pressure gauge allows you to visualize the extraction pressure (ideally around 9 bars for an espresso).
It’s a valuable tool for adjusting grind size and dose.

Other Important Points

Three-Way Solenoid Valve

It depressurizes the portafilter after extraction, allowing quick succession of coffee preparation.

Reservoir Filling

Drip Tray

Noise

The pump is relatively quiet, which is appreciated in the morning.

The pressurized filter

The result obtained is far from a true espresso: beer-like foam and less rich taste.
To be avoided if you’re looking for an authentic extraction.

Steam wand

With its single boiler, you need to wait 30 seconds to switch from coffee to steam.
It remains effective for frothing milk, but daily cappuccino enthusiasts will prefer a dual boiler machine.

Conclusion

The Lelit 41 TEM PID meets my expectations: extraction quality, ease of use, > refined design.
After adjustments, I get a balanced espresso with satisfactory crema.
It’s an excellent machine for starting out in manual espresso, while having an upgradeable tool.