Setting up the perfect home bar means choosing an espresso machine that matches your skills, space and ambitions. Two machines consistently catch the eye of serious home baristas: the Bezzera Duo and the Sanremo Cube R. Both represent the sweet spot between professional capability and home-friendly design, yet they take distinctly different approaches to delivering café-quality espresso.
The Bezzera Duo brings dual boiler precision to compact spaces, whilst the Sanremo Cube R pairs classic E61 engineering with modern flow control technology. Each machine has earned its reputation amongst home espresso enthusiasts, but which one deserves pride of place on your counter?
This comparison cuts through the technical jargon to help you understand what sets these home espresso machines apart. We’ll examine their heating systems, user controls, design considerations and practical features—everything you need to confidently choose between the Bezzera Duo vs Sanremo Cube R for your home bar setup.
However, a perfect home bar isn’t just about espresso. You might also want to explore other beverage options like hot chocolate. In that case, investing in a Galaxy Hot Chocolate Machine could be a great addition to your setup.
Furthermore, if you’re interested in expanding your knowledge or business connections in the coffee industry, attending events like the National Convenience Show can provide valuable insights and networking opportunities.
Overview of Bezzera Duo
The Bezzera Duo is an advanced espresso machine designed for home use, offering the same performance as professional machines. Made in Italy, it features two separate boilers—one for brewing espresso and another for steaming milk. This allows you to make coffee and steam milk simultaneously, eliminating the waiting time associated with single boiler machines.
Built Like a Commercial Workhorse
Bezzera has equipped the Duo with components you’d typically find in professional café machines. The build quality reflects decades of Italian espresso engineering expertise, with solid brass group heads, high-grade stainless steel construction, and robust internal components designed to withstand daily use. This isn’t a machine that will struggle after a few months—it’s built to deliver consistent performance year after year.
Precision Through PID Temperature Control
Temperature stability is crucial for making great espresso, and the Bezzera Duo features PID temperature control on both boilers. This digital system keeps your chosen brewing temperature accurate to within a fraction of a degree, allowing you to extract the best flavours from different types of coffee beans. Whether you’re using light roasts that need higher temperatures or dark roasts that require slightly cooler extraction, you have complete control over the process.
Space-Conscious Design
Despite its dual boiler capabilities, the compact espresso machine design makes it surprisingly suitable for home environments. The Bezzera Duo won’t dominate your worktop like some commercial machines, making it an excellent choice for home bars where space comes at a premium. Its footprint allows you to maintain a functional kitchen whilst still enjoying professional-level espresso equipment.
Complementing Your Espresso Experience
To further enhance your espresso experience, consider pairing the Bezzera Duo with a high-quality coffee grinder like the Eureka Atom Specialty 65. This grinder is focused on producing coffee grounds that are perfect for espresso while remaining quiet in operation and providing smooth, consistent delivery speed into the filter holder.
Additionally, if you’re planning to serve milk-based drinks such as lattes or cappuccinos, you might want to explore options for sourcing premium milkshake solutions. Check out these milkshake packages which include mixers, cups & flavourings – ideal for new businesses venturing into milk-based beverages.
The semi-automatic operation of the Bezzera Duo strikes an ideal balance—you control the grind using an advanced grinder like the Eureka Atom, dose, tamp, and extraction time, giving you hands-on involvement in crafting each shot without requiring the manual pressure control of lever machines.
Overview of Sanremo Cube R
The Sanremo Cube R represents a different approach to home espresso excellence, built around a heat exchanger espresso machine design that’s earned respect in both commercial and domestic settings. At its heart sits the legendary E61 group head, a thermally stable brewing group that’s been the gold standard in espresso machines for decades. This combination delivers consistently stable extraction temperatures, giving you the thermal reliability needed for repeatable, café-quality shots.
What sets the Sanremo Cube R apart is its sophisticated flow control espresso capability. This feature puts you in the driver’s seat during extraction, allowing you to adjust water flow mid-shot. Whether you’re pre-infusing delicate single-origin beans or experimenting with pressure profiling, this level of control opens up new dimensions in your espresso technique. It’s the kind of functionality that transforms a good home barista into a great one.
The Sanremo Cube R features extend beyond brewing mechanics into practical everyday convenience:
- Programmable coffee quantity lets you dial in your preferred shot volume and replicate it consistently
- Digital display provides clear feedback on machine status and settings
- Traditional steam wand delivers powerful, responsive milk texturing for latte art enthusiasts
- Tall cup clearance accommodates larger vessels, from travel mugs to generous cappuccino cups
- Integrated cup warmer keeps your crockery at the ideal temperature for serving
The machine’s design balances classic espresso aesthetics with modern functionality. Automatic power-off adds peace of mind for busy households, whilst adjustable water temperature settings let you fine-tune brewing parameters to match different coffee styles. The vertical design maximises counter space efficiency whilst providing the height needed for those taller cups.
For home baristas who appreciate traditional espresso craftsmanship enhanced by contemporary conveniences, the Sanremo Cube R offers a compelling package that doesn’t compromise on either front.
To further enhance your coffee experience at home, consider incorporating some high-quality tools such as the Timemore Kettle 600ml, which ensures a constant and consistent water stream during slow pours – ideal for brewing amazing pour-over coffee.
Additionally, if you’re seeking versatile solutions for serving a wide variety of drinks quickly, the Douwe Egberts Cafitesse Hot ‘n’ Cold machine could be an excellent companion for busy breakfast buffets or conferences.
Maintaining your equipment is crucial for longevity and performance. With products like the IEN 3000 Complete Filter with Head, which helps prevent scale build-up and keep pH levels stable, you can ensure optimal performance of your machines.
After brewing, it’s essential to dispose of used coffee grounds properly. A product like the RhinoWare Deluxe Knock Box can help make this process effortless while maintaining quiet operation.
Finally, achieving consistent extraction performance is key to great coffee. Consider using VST Precision Ridgeless Filter Baskets like this 15g version, designed to deliver superior results with minimal changes in grind setting.
Key Differences Between Bezzera Duo and Sanremo Cube R
When choosing between these two exceptional machines, understanding their core differences helps you match the right espresso machine to your home bar setup and brewing style.
Boiler System and Temperature Control
The dual boiler vs heat exchanger debate sits at the heart of this comparison. The Bezzera Duo’s dual boiler system operates two separate boilers—one dedicated to brewing and another for steaming. This configuration delivers PID temperature control for both functions, allowing you to pull shots whilst simultaneously steaming milk without any compromise to either task. The digital precision means you can dial in exact temperatures for different coffee origins and roast profiles.
On the other hand, the Sanremo Cube R takes a different approach with its heat exchanger system paired with the renowned E61 group head. This single boiler setup maintains water at steam temperature, then passes brew water through an internal heat exchanger to achieve the correct extraction temperature. The E61 group head’s substantial thermal mass provides excellent temperature stability during extraction, though you’ll need to manage the cooling flush technique when switching between steaming and brewing.
User Control and Customisation
The Bezzera Duo operates as a semi-automatic espresso machine, giving you hands-on control over pre-infusion, extraction time, and shot volume. You start and stop the pump manually, making each shot a deliberate, engaged process that appeals to baristas who want to develop their skills.
In contrast, Sanremo Cube R adds modern convenience to traditional espresso making through its flow control feature and programmable coffee quantity settings. The flow control paddle lets you manipulate pressure during extraction—perfect for experimenting with pressure profiling techniques. The digital display and programmable doses mean you can save your preferred settings for different coffees, blending consistency with creative control.
Design and Size Considerations
Space planning matters when installing a home espresso machine. The Bezzera Duo’s compact espresso machine design prioritises a smaller footprint, making it ideal for kitchen counters where every centimetre counts. Its space-saving design doesn’t sacrifice functionality—you still get commercial-grade performance in a tidy package.
The Sanremo Cube R stands taller, designed with tall dimensions that might require more space. However, if you’re looking for additional space-saving solutions or units that provide seamless integration into your existing setup while maintaining high functionality, consider exploring options like the Cadbury Floor Standing Unit. This unit features a compact design that offers a seamless experience for serving hot chocolate alongside your coffee drinks.
Moreover, if you’re aiming for authentic coffee shop drinks made from skinny milk without added colours or preservatives, incorporating items like Summit Gold 100% Granulated Skimmed Milk Powder into your brewing process could be beneficial. This product is perfect for health-conscious coffee lovers seeking quality in their beverages while managing dietary considerations.
Which Machine Suits Your Home Bar? Factors to Consider
Choosing between these two exceptional machines depends on understanding your specific needs and circumstances. Let’s explore the key factors that should guide your decision.
Your Barista Experience and Control Preferences
The Eureka Pura Espresso Machine is perfect for those who want a hands-on, semi-professional experience at home. If you’re an experienced barista or want to develop advanced skills, its dual boiler system and manual controls offer the precision needed to perfect your craft. You’ll have direct control over every variable, from pre-infusion timing to steam pressure, allowing you to experiment and refine your technique.
On the other hand, the Sanremo Cube R strikes a different balance. Its programmable controls make it more forgiving for beginner baristas while still offering depth through its flow control feature. You can programme your preferred coffee quantities, reducing the learning curve, then gradually explore manual adjustments as your confidence grows. The classic E61 group head provides that traditional espresso-making feel without overwhelming newcomers.
Consider this:
- Beginner vs experienced barista: New to espresso? The Sanremo’s programmability offers a gentler learning path
- Manual vs programmable controls: Prefer full control? The Bezzera rewards skill and precision
- Want both automation and hands-on options? The Sanremo’s hybrid approach might suit you best
Space Limitations and Design Compatibility
Your available kitchen space plays a crucial role in this decision. The Eureka Pura Espresso Machine‘s compact footprint makes it ideal for smaller home bars where counter space is limited. Its streamlined design fits neatly into tight spots without sacrificing functionality.
The Sanremo Cube R requires more vertical clearance due to its taller profile and integrated cup warmer. If you regularly serve lattes in tall glasses or appreciate the convenience of pre-warmed cups, this extra height becomes an advantage rather than a limitation. Its design style compatibility leans towards traditional Italian aesthetics, making a bold statement in any kitchen.
Offering Vegan-Friendly Drink Options
In addition to selecting the right machine, it’s essential to consider the variety of drink options you can offer from your home bar. For instance, offering vegan-friendly drink options year-round can significantly broaden your menu. With some creativity and knowledge of seasonal ingredients and plant-based alternatives, you can easily cater to vegan customers while still delivering delicious drinks.
Budget Considerations Without Compromising Quality
When evaluating your investment in espresso machine technology, both the Bezzera Duo and Sanremo Cube R represent significant commitments that deliver value for money home bar equipment through their commercial-grade construction.
The Bezzera Duo typically commands a premium price point, reflecting its sophisticated dual boiler system and precision PID temperature control. This investment pays dividends for serious home baristas who prioritise simultaneous brewing and steaming capabilities alongside professional-level consistency. The commercial-grade components mean you’re purchasing equipment built to withstand years of daily use, not occasional weekend shots.
The Sanremo Cube R often sits at a comparable price bracket, though specific configurations may vary. Your money buys the legendary E61 group head—a time-tested design favoured by professionals worldwide—combined with modern conveniences like flow control and programmable dosing. The heat exchanger system, whilst different from dual boilers, still delivers exceptional temperature stability that rivals machines costing considerably more.
Both machines eliminate the false economy of cheaper alternatives that require replacement within a few years. You’re purchasing equipment that maintains consistent performance and can be serviced rather than discarded. Consider the cost per cup over a five to ten-year lifespan—suddenly, the initial outlay becomes remarkably reasonable for the quality you’ll extract daily. The robust build quality means minimal downtime and maximum reliability for your home bar operations.
To enhance your home bar experience even further, consider investing in high-quality ingredients such as the Simply Luxury Gold Chocolate Powder from ADS Coffee Supplies. This beautifully balanced blend of caramel and white chocolate makes fantastic frappés and hot chocolates, adding an extra layer of luxury to your coffee creations.
Final Recommendation
Choosing between the Bezzera Duo and Sanremo Cube R comes down to understanding what matters most in your daily coffee routine. Both machines represent exceptional value in the best home espresso machine 2024 category, but they serve slightly different needs.
If you prioritise these factors, the Bezzera Duo is your match:
- Simultaneous brewing and steaming without waiting between drinks
- Precise digital PID temperature control for experimental brewing
- Compact footprint for kitchens where counter space is precious
- Semi-automatic operation that puts you firmly in control
The Sanremo Cube R makes more sense when you value:
- Flow control capabilities to fine-tune extraction profiles
- Programmable shot volumes for consistent results
- Tall cup clearance and integrated cup warmer
- Classic E61 aesthetics with modern convenience features
Your budget plays a role, but both machines deliver commercial-grade performance that justifies the investment for serious home baristas. The question isn’t about quality—it’s about which feature set aligns with your workflow and space constraints.
When you’re ready to buy Bezzera Duo online or buy Sanremo Cube R online, sourcing from a trusted retailer makes all the difference. ADS Coffee Supplies stocks both machines with full manufacturer support, expert guidance to help you choose, and after-sales service that keeps your investment protected. Their team understands the nuances of each machine and can answer specific questions about installation, maintenance, and getting the most from your purchase.
To complement your new espresso machine, consider investing in high-quality accessories like the Eureka Mignon Libra Coffee Grinder, known for its precision and silent operation. Additionally, you might want to explore some 20oz disposables for serving, or pick up a Polyester Pot Brush for maintaining your equipment.
As we transition into autumn, it’s an opportune moment to refresh your drink menu with some warming options. Check out ADS Coffee Supplies’ recommendations on how to cosy up to autumn with indulgent drink options. And as Christmas approaches, don’t forget to explore their Christmas offerings for festive drink ideas!
Where to Buy Your Espresso Machine
Once you’ve decided between the Bezzera Duo and Sanremo Cube R, securing your machine from a reliable source becomes the next priority. ADS Coffee Supplies stands out as a trusted retailer offering both models, backed by their reputation for supporting UK coffee enthusiasts and hospitality professionals alike.
When you buy your Bezzera Duo or Sanremo Cube R from ADS Coffee Supplies, you gain access to several valuable benefits:
- Expert guidance from knowledgeable staff who understand the nuances of both machines and can answer technical questions
- Comprehensive warranty coverage providing peace of mind for your investment
- After-sales support to help you get the most from your espresso machine
- Competitive pricing on premium equipment without compromising on service quality
The team at ADS Coffee Supplies understands that choosing between machines like the Bezzera Duo vs Sanremo Cube R requires careful consideration of your specific home bar needs. Their expertise extends beyond simply selling equipment—they’re committed to helping you make an informed decision that matches your brewing style and space requirements.
But ADS Coffee Supplies isn’t just about espresso machines. They also offer a variety of other products to enhance your beverage experience. For instance, if you’re a tea lover, you might want to explore their selection of teas such as the popular PG Tips Enveloped Tea Bags, or perhaps try some Teapigs Super Fruit Tea Temples for a refreshing fruity blend.
If milkshakes are more your style, ADS Coffee Supplies has got you covered with their delicious Shmoo Milkshake Powder that can elevate your milkshake experience.
Ready to elevate your home coffee experience? Visit the ADS Coffee Supplies website today to explore current deals on both the Bezzera Duo and Sanremo Cube R. Their straightforward ordering process and reliable delivery service mean your perfect home bar companion could be brewing exceptional espresso in your kitchen sooner than you think.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
What are the main differences between Bezzera Duo and Sanremo Cube R espresso machines?
The Bezzera Duo is a dual boiler espresso machine with PID temperature control, allowing simultaneous brewing and steaming with precise temperature management. It offers semi-automatic operation and a compact design ideal for smaller home bars. In contrast, the Sanremo Cube R features a heat exchanger system with an E61 group head for stable extraction temperatures, flow control for water adjustment during extraction, programmable coffee quantity, and a taller design accommodating tall cups with a cup warmer.
Which espresso machine is better suited for beginners versus experienced baristas?
The Bezzera Duo is recommended for users seeking a hands-on, semi-professional experience with manual control over espresso making. Meanwhile, the Sanremo Cube R suits those who prefer some automation features like programmable coffee quantity and flow control while enjoying traditional espresso preparation methods.
How do the designs of Bezzera Duo and Sanremo Cube R fit different home bar spaces?
Bezzera Duo boasts a compact footprint ideal for limited space in home bars, making it suitable for kitchens with space constraints. The Sanremo Cube R has a taller design that accommodates tall cups and includes a cup warmer, fitting well in home bars where vertical space is available and tall cup usage is common.
What budget considerations should I keep in mind when choosing between these two machines?
Both Bezzera Duo and Sanremo Cube R offer commercial-grade quality suitable for serious home baristas. While pricing may vary, investing in either machine ensures value for money without compromising on performance or build quality. Buyers should consider their desired features and control levels alongside budget to make the best choice.
Where can I purchase the Bezzera Duo or Sanremo Cube R espresso machines reliably?
ADS Coffee Supplies is a trusted retailer offering both the Bezzera Duo and Sanremo Cube R espresso machines. They provide expert support, warranty services, and current deals to help you secure your perfect home bar companion. Visiting their website allows you to explore options and make informed purchases confidently.
How do temperature control systems differ between Bezzera Duo and Sanremo Cube R?
Bezzera Duo uses digital PID temperature control within its dual boiler system, enabling precise management of brewing and steaming temperatures simultaneously. The Sanremo Cube R employs a heat exchanger system combined with an E61 group head that ensures stable extraction temperatures but operates on a single boiler setup.
