Lelit Anna Espresso Machine Review: Is This Entry-Level Machine Worth It?

The Lelit Anna (PL41TEM) has become a popular choice for home baristas looking for an affordable yet capable espresso machine. With its classic Italian design, PID temperature control, and commercial-style portafilter, it promises quality shots without breaking the bank. But does it deliver? In this review, we'll examine the Anna's features, performance, and overall value to help you decide if it's the right entry-level machine for your home setup.

We tested the Lelit Anna over several weeks, pulling dozens of shots and steaming milk for lattes and cappuccinos. We also compared it to other machines in its price range. Whether you're a complete beginner or upgrading from a basic machine, read on to see if the Anna lives up to the hype.

Design and Build Quality

The Lelit Anna sports a compact, retro-inspired design that looks great on any countertop. It measures just 20 cm wide, making it one of the narrowest espresso machines on the market. The stainless steel body feels sturdy, and the chrome-plated brass boiler (with a 300 ml capacity) ensures excellent thermal stability. The water tank is accessible from the top, which is convenient, though its 1.2-liter capacity may require frequent refilling if you host guests.

One standout feature is the commercial-style 58 mm portafilter. This is rare at this price point and means you can use standard accessories like a precision basket or a quality tamper. The machine also includes a pressure gauge, allowing you to monitor extraction pressure in real time. The steam wand is a single-hole, non-articulating design—adequate for beginners but not as versatile as a ball-joint wand.

• Tip: Use a quality tamper like the one from the Mahlkönig X54 Home Grinder to improve puck prep.

Performance: Espresso Quality

The Lelit Anna's PID controller lets you set the brew temperature precisely, which is crucial for consistent extraction. In our tests, the machine delivered stable temperatures within 1°C of the set point. This allowed us to dial in both light and medium roasts effectively. The 57 mm brass group head (a slight oddity, but compatible with 58 mm accessories with a conversion kit) heated up in about 20 minutes.

Shots were well-balanced, with good crema and clarity. Using a quality grinder is essential—we paired the Anna with the Wilfa Zense Grinder for consistent grounds. The pressure gauge helped us identify when we needed to adjust grind size or dose. For under £500, the espresso quality rivals machines costing twice as much.

• Tip: Use a scale like the Acaia Pearl Scale to measure your dose and yield for repeatable results.

Steaming and Milk Texturing

The steam wand is a weak point. It's a basic single-hole wand that requires practice to achieve microfoam. The steam power is adequate but not powerful; it took about 45 seconds to steam 150 ml of milk. The wand is fixed, so you must angle the pitcher carefully. However, for beginners learning latte art, it's a good starting point.

If you mainly drink straight espresso or Americanos, the steam wand's limitations won't bother you. For milk-based drinks, consider a separate milk frother or be prepared for a learning curve. The machine also has a hot water spout for Americanos or preheating cups.

• Tip: Clean the steam wand immediately after use to prevent milk buildup. Sage Steam Wand Cleaner works well.

Ease of Use and Maintenance

The Lelit Anna is relatively user-friendly. The water tank is easy to fill, and the drip tray is removable for cleaning. The machine has a single rocker switch for brewing and a separate knob for steam/hot water. The PID display is clear and intuitive. However, there is no automatic shut-off or programmable shot timer, so you'll need a separate timer or scale.

Maintenance is straightforward: backflush weekly with a blind basket and cleaner, descale every few months, and replace the group gasket annually. The brass boiler is durable and should last for years with proper care.

Value for Money

At around £450-500, the Lelit Anna offers excellent value for an entry-level machine with a 58 mm portafilter and PID. It competes with machines like the Gaggia Classic Pro and Rancilio Silvia. While the steam wand is basic, the espresso quality is outstanding for the price. If you're serious about espresso and willing to invest in a good grinder, the Anna is a solid choice.

For beginners, we recommend pairing it with a capable grinder like the Mahlkönig X54 Home Grinder or the Wilfa Zense Grinder to get the most out of your beans. The Anna's small footprint also makes it ideal for compact kitchens.

The Lelit Anna is a worthy entry-level espresso machine that prioritizes shot quality over flashy features. Its PID, 58 mm portafilter, and pressure gauge make it a fantastic tool for learning espresso. While the steam wand could be better, the overall package is hard to beat at this price. If you're ready to start your home barista journey, the Lelit Anna is a machine you can grow with.