Lelit Glenda PL41PLUST Home Espresso Machine Review & Test

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Thank you for watching, comments welcome! Product links in the description above 👆🏻 Check out my Amazon storefront for tips and suggestions: www.amazon.com/shop/tomscoffeecorner

[@josephlavoie8358]

My experience with shots pulling to an off center, provided you don't see dead zones (channeling), is merely a visual issue, or rather a balance issue. Adjust feet if that's an option, or prop it up where it's pulling towards. Problem solved.

[@mladenlazarevic3922]

Do LELIT Anita PL042EM next :) Keep up the good work!

[@irregularstar2399]

This is my machine, and your video is on point. Since it is discontinued, I got it for a hefty discount for around 550$ which was quite a steal. I don't have the un-even shower screen you've showcased, also my searchpean tiny scale fits under the portafilter even with my cappuccino cup! Also, steam is very strong as you've pointed out, which makes it very hard to learn how to make a microfoam.

[@claudius8002]

Your videos helped me out a frew months ago to fix my first espresso machine, a Dedica. I knew nothing about it, but I think I could teach people a thing or two about it after fixing 3 of them. Anyway, I upgraded to a Lelit Anita (PL042TEM with integrated grinder). Still learning to dial in the perfect shot, but it's miles away from the Dedica. A couple of things from your video: - it works better to cool off the machine with the portafilter off ;) - the middle button is actually for hot water (e.g. for tea or americano). That's incomplete info that you're giving there There's a solution for every problem, or there's a problem for every solution, depends on how you want to look at it: - there's an upgrade version of the water tank - people have 3d printed lower drip trays to allow for bigger cups (same size as the Anna if you want to get the model from thingyverse) - if the water is not coming correctly from the group head you can loosen the screw and spin it a bit until it gets to the right flow - when the water gets above the set temperature just turn on the pump for a few seconds, it warms up the group head, and brings back the temperature to the set value - steam tap is an actual rod, with thread instead of a on/off, hence the delay in turning of. It's a bit annoying, but you get used to it - Elizabeth has a better looking, modern PID I would say you'd need to fully get acquainted to the machine before posting a review.

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Hi Claudiu, Thanks for those pointers. You are right, I should spend more time getting acquainted, but I just had this machine on loan for a week. I still wanted to give a demo. I beg to differ on the funciton of the middle switch though. You need to flip that, to switch the path of water flow from the brew group to the steam wand instead, that is why I said it controls a valve switching. In addition, one has to turn the pump on to get hot water to dispense. It's not super user friendly. I am currently testing the Grace, which I bought. I like it quite a bit, but my biggest pet peeve is the long time for the steam valve to completely turn off. It ruins the microfoam, whether I pull out and make a mess, or wait, as the low power steam introduces new bubbles on top. What does the upgraded water tank look like? Is it easier to pour into? I think they should include a funnel, then it would be ok. But all in all, the Grace is quite a looker, and a nice machine to use so far. Cheers!

[@claudius8002]

@@TomsCoffeeCorner the upgrade water tank is PLA8330. It's completely open at the top and has sensors attached to it. I'm debating if I should upgrade it. Unfortunately I don't thing it fits Grace

[@mohamed_ai_selim]

Thanks Tom for the awesome video, I do like the Lelit and I know that Glenda is a pretty old machine concerning the design, I believe that other mid range models like Grace, Victoria and Kate have better LCC PID feature. So I am waiting for you to review one of those.

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Yes Mohamed, I am also quite fond of the Grace, and hopefully I can get my hands on one soon.

[@carlocastelli7511]

Very critical analysis, excellent! Personally I very much agree with you. As an Italian I can say that the designer didn't have a clear idea of what to do.. (Thank you Tom!)

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Their new VIP line is aesthetically way nicer. But the vibration pump is quite loud on them due to the design...thanks for your comment!

[@bikesandbeans]

A great quality machine. I have the older version of PL41 (ANNA) with no PID but still awesome after adjusting the OPV. To anyone thinking of buying this, I've had the PL41 ANNA and the Faema branded Eurostar machine which are nearly identical in externals, just be sure to keep the body as clean and DRY as possible to prevent rusting, where the solenoid drain tube splashes into the drip tray especially is prone to rusting.

[@bikesandbeans]

ALSO , anyone looking for some accessories for 57mm ASCASO or Lelit machines, check out Blue Star Coffee out of Ireland, they sell a lot of parts for fixing as well as lots of tamps and distributors.

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Thanks for those tips David. How do you adjust the OPV on the Anna?

[@bikesandbeans]

@@TomsCoffeeCorner If I recall you just pull the drain tube off from where the solenoid valve dumps the water out. Inside there is a small flat head screw where that silicone tube attaches. It's been a while since I did it, but it was a fairly easy adjustment to make. *unless there is hard water buildup holding that screw too tightly.

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

@@bikesandbeans Thanks for sharing. I will have to have a look, if I get a Lelit in my hands again. Cheers!

[@justinbouchard]

Another awesome video. I always appreciate how open you are. I feel like you truly try your best to be as honest with us as you are with yourself. I love that so much. As far as this machine goes. It makes me sad that it is kind of so close to being pretty awesome. Unfortunately, I think the gaggia classic machines are better than this even without a pid installed on them.

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Thanks so much for your kind comment, Justin. I do think the ergonomics are better on the GCP, at least for me. But, if you add a PID, they will be at the same price. The steam pressure is WAY better on the Glenda too, so gotta keep that in mind.

[@wontsat8746]

Regarding the uneven shower screen, on some machines you can take it off w/ a screw driver for cleaning.

[@jesperhostrup7095]

Very nice review, thanks! I have this machine and like it a lot more since I changed/upgraded the water tank, which was my biggest gripe. The flimsiness of the chassis that kind of twists, is another dislike. But it’s hard to find a more powerful espresso maker with an even smaller footprint than this, I believe. The short distance from spout to cup I actually like for making straight espresso, which is my preferred drink with this machine. In today’s market, I would probably spend a little more and go with the Profitec Go, which looks like a very complete and well-made little machine.

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Agreed that the Go looks like a nice updated version of this.

[@frankypc]

I think removing the portafilter for the cool down makes it less messy but I like how you just go with it haha

[@matveivanable]

Nice video, thx. I've installed PID controller to my ECP DeLonghi, hence adjust proportional ratio manually and have the same decline espresso shot temperature.

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Wow, nice! Which PID did you install? Do you have a video or pics?

[@matveivanable]

@@TomsCoffeeCorner Its PID controller REX c100. I have videos how it works, I can send you.

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

@@matveivanable Sounds like a plan!

[@matveivanable]

​@@TomsCoffeeCorner kzbin.info/www/bejne/rajdk4J9ms-saa8 Check it out :)

[@clemensrausch23]

I have the lelit grace and I am coming from a dedica setup. It’s a great machine!:)

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Good choice! I would love to try the Grace. It looks like Lelit improved and updated their machine totally, to end up at the Grace. Does it have the same water tank?

[@clemensrausch23]

@@TomsCoffeeCorner yes the water tank is still trash. Besides that, I really like the looks more compared to Glenda, the PID is rock solid and exact and the distance between portafilter and trip tray is bigger. Since I don’t have an annoying countertop for the tank, the grace works flawlessly for me.:) would be curious to hear your opinion about it-if you can grab a hand on it!:)

[@kyleb2044]

I remember checking out Lelit closely. The PID Anna was already getting pricey for just adding PID and didn't have 58mm, Glenda gets the 58mm for even more money. Then the Profitec Go came out and seemed a lot nicer for slightly more money to above that. I would have went with Profitec if I was willing to spend that much. Always something better for that little bit more money. I ended up with the gaggia classic pro, I just wanted to see how much you had to spend to get a decent upgrade and included PID. No PID is as annoying as you'd think it would be if anyone is considering. But you make do and after many months of using I now get good shots consistently, but rarely get a perfect shot. I'll upgrade it with a PID someday.

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Thanks for sharing Kyle. I like the GCP too, and it would be even better with a PID. The problem I find is, the PIDs all look so ugly, and they are just kind of slapped on the side of the housing, or put in an extra "box" on top of the machine. I would like a nice integrated PID, that aesthetically fits the machine. Still hoping a nice one pops up soon.

[@daspharion]

Hi Tom, I've been enjoying your videos for quite a while, really appreciate the work you do. I'm thinking about investing in my first espresso setup: Lelit MaraX in combination with Eureka Mignon Turbo, and I was wondering if you could give me some recommendations for potential alternatives to the listed products. Anyway, love your content, keep it up

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Hi there! Well, once you get up into that price range, the products are endless. So it's kinda hard to say. You should choose something that pleases you aesthetically, and ergonomically, because in that price range, every machine should be quite capable.

[@mcst6969]

Damn! The algorithm know his stuff. I looking to buy the exact same setup. I'm currently bidding on a used DDF83 (just 3 mounts old) and looking to buy the exact same Lelit model! _But was also looking at the Anna model what is much more popular(and cheaper) model, but only 57mm(smaller boiler and smaller heating power). Not decided yet_

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Thanks for sharing! Do you plan to use it for only espresso or also for milk-based drinks? I ask because I feel like the smaller boiler lends itself better to making milk-based drinks, having to go up to steam temperature and back down. A smaller boiler offers less lag. Either way, enjoy your purchase, and have fun experimenting!

[@mcst6969]

@@TomsCoffeeCorner mainly for espresso. I'm not really a Cappuccino guy. _Usually only using a small amount of coffee cream._ How you like the grinder, by the way? (everybody says the grinder is more important and I'm decided yet.) The timemore 64s on kikstarter seems like a good deal too, or the DF83, what you think?

[@TomJones-tx7pb]

wow great video and a brutal review not only of the Lelit but also the grinder (can you say "static" and "noise"). If one builds a product like this Lelit then the name brand as a high end manufacturer is devalued. Times have changed with internet reviews and a 1980s style product like this today should have a hard time selling, I think. oh and that "PID" looks useless. Note to self: avoid buying products based upon a marketing bullet list. This product makes Breville and Gaggia look good.

[@blackbird7013]

Well no. I have the Glenda now for a good amount of time and the PID is not useless. There is a youtube channel which is called Lelit insider who analyses the Glenda and you can adjust the PID settings in LCC menu. Also the over- and undershooting with recommended settings. There is indeed an 8 C offset which need to be added but this machine is by far the best bang for the buck if you want to have a 58mm Portfilter with a single boiler and PID. I payed around 500 Euro for it (new) and oh my god. If you know how to handle it you can make two Cappuchini in about 1:30 which is quite fast (Tom uses the steam wand wrong. If you release some hot water through the wand after you switch to the steam mode the heating process takes way less time). So anyway, make your decisions but dont use this video as a review of someone who just got used to the machine :)

[@Petercoffeee]

Italians know how to make good espresso machines !

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Yes, I am a sucker for things made in Italy. Love my Eureka Specialita!

[@georgiosgalanopoulos7379]

The opv on glenda is adjustable

[@throwinafitz]

Omg I have this machine and the espresso pulling on one side is driving me nuts. Have you ever figured out why this is the case? I’m contemplating replacing the dispersion plate and shower screen because I can’t nail down what’s causing the problem. I’ve already crossed off puck prep issues or an unlevel machine. Not sure how else to troubleshoot. My shots pull close to the back of the basket (closest to the machine) and don’t center until the very end of the shot. Same side every time. It’s driving me bananas and I can’t figure it out.

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Hmm, have you descaled recently? Maybe pull off the dispersion plate, and inspect it. Perhaps it is clogged.

[@throwinafitz]

@@TomsCoffeeCornerso I figured it out… my old rubber gasket went bad and I guess it somehow slanted my portafilter?… replaced with silicone gasket and all is well now

[@troncaffe]

3:31 the bubbling, not just the uneven water distribution, looks seriously ...

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Yes, I think it was too hot right there...

[@modmlot]

Nice T-shirt Tom, my hometown.

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Awesome! Colectivo is my favorite coffee shop in the USA. 😉

[@yoanperez172]

Thank you for this review, I wondered why these machines are not more popular but now I understand why

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Yes well, I think the Glenda was built at the end of a product cycle. I think it has been replaced by the much more modern looking Grace: amzn.to/3nppo6P and Victoria: amzn.to/3FVK3G1

[@Sondre97]

Hey, im a little stuck in choosing the next machine to buy. My 3 options are Breville barista express. Breville barista pro and delonghi la specialista arte. Not sure how big of a difference i will notice regardless of the one i choose.

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Hi! Of those 3, I would say Breville. The Barista Express steams slowly, but has a passively heated brew group, which eventually gets hot, and helps with the extractions. The Barista Pro steams much nicer, but I believe lacks the passive portafilter heating. So, I would say BBE if espresso is your main thing, and BBP if you do lots of milk drinks.

[@johne7100]

I had a Lelit PL041 EM a few years ago. This was before they began slapping women's names on them. Basically it was a PID-less machine with a pressure gauge, a trio of buttons, a couple of lights and you've guessed it a 57 mm PF. The temperature curve was fierce, and surfing it to extract a sweet shot required constant prayers to Apollo and the odd human sacrifice. It also looked as if it had been cobbled together in somebody's garage, and was so light that I had to hold it down when I put the PF into the brew group. It had that hare-brained arrangement with the water-tank, too. It discouraged me so much that I sold it on and bought a B2C instead - never great but never really bad, which is more that I could say for the Lelit.

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Thanks for sharing! I had the same machine 6 years ago! I didn't like it so much, but I think I would do better with it now. It was the PL41EM Anna...

[@johne7100]

​@@TomsCoffeeCorner If I had one now I'd go PID shopping, or graft a thermocouple and a Raspberry Pi onto the boiler. Nowadays with my Sage/Breville I know at least that the bad espressos I pull are my own fault.

[@josephgryson8191]

Hi Tom, just wondered what camera do your shoot with? Use a mic 🎤? And extra lighting? You’ve inspired me to think about starting a channel 👍🏻

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Hi Joseph! Wow, what some nice feedback! I use a Canon M50, 22mm pancake, and Weelyte 200 watt lamp. Check out those things and the rest here: Camera Kit: kit.co/tomscoffeecorner/studio-gear

[@domninin]

I have the same machine and also have the issue with the water coming out a little bit uneven to the right side. I thought maybe my kitchen counter was just a little bit crooked so it's good to know this seems to be an issue with the machine. Have you found any solution so far to fix this? By the way, there is a button combination to access the PID settings on the machine. I think it was something like pressing and holding up and down while turning the machine on or something like that, don't remember exactly. There you can set a temp offset for the PID so the displayed temperature is more accurate to the actual temperature and also probably change the PID settings, though I only changed the offset on mine.

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

There are extra menu settings on the more current LCC of the Grace and Victoria, but I am not sure about the Glenda. This was a loaner for me, so I cannot really answer. Check a reddit forum perhaps, for more detailed info. That's always a good resource. Cheers!

[@domninin]

​@@TomsCoffeeCorner there are extra settings on the Glenda too, you have to hold the up and down buttons while turning the machine on to enter the menu. There are 5 settings, the 3 parameters for PID, a temperature offset and the target temperature for steaming

[@glennkoleth6532]

I found that the stock pressure of this machine was just way too high and shots were just too watery. I opened the steam wand knob immediately after the coffee switch was flipped on. And this slowed the extraction down and I got so much more texture and mouthfeel

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Sounds like a good tip, thanks for sharing! I bet a dimmer might be nice to try, too.

[@domninin]

How much do you turn the knob to get there? I have the same machine and have been struggling with my shots having basically no texture

[@Vladdy89]

Thank you for the video. You have a great channel. Sorry for an off-topic question: what grinder can you recommend for Dedica EC685 so one can make coffee with a regular portafilter and with a bottomless one? Favorite coffee being cappuccino, latte and other milk coffee. But it would be nice to be able to try and make some black coffee too. My budget is around $ 150-200. Is it possible to buy a decent electric coffee grinder for this money for my purpose?

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Hi Vladi, to be honest that is a really hard budget to reach, but I can recommend these ones: kit.co/tomscoffeecorner/cheapest-espresso-grinders If you can spring for a little more, the Eureka Mignon line is the best value for the money in my experience.

[@Vladdy89]

@@TomsCoffeeCorner Thanks for the info! I think I can get Eureka mignon manuale. Or is it better to forget about the convenience and buy a manual coffee grinder for that money?

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

@@Vladdy89 I would definately get an electric. Hand grinding gets old fast, especially if it's not just yourself that you are preparing coffee for.

[@Vladdy89]

@@TomsCoffeeCorner Thank you!

[@Vladdy89]

Hello again! Sorry for bothering you so much. Could you please recommend settings for Eureka Manuale\Silenzio to make a good shots for milk coffee with Dedica 685. I understand that it depends on many factors but maybe you can orient me at an approximate range to experiment at. I just been scared by one coffee pro that this grinder is hard to set up, especially when you have no idea how to work with it.

[@mrneversalty1702]

Hey nice video! I got my first setup with this glenda plust and an eureka specialita. You are right, the 58mm got me and also the bigger boiler otherwise i would habe chosen the anna. For my first setup its fine, i didnt want to spend more than 1000€. Thank you also for Testing the temperatur. Could you tell me your Pid settings and your PID version? Have a great day!

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Sorry, I played with the PID display, but I did not find any settings besides the target temperature, and units. I looked in the directions too, and couldn't find any supporting info. Maybe in a forum thread somewhere? Good luck!

[@D1MK4_]

I am also considering to buy the Eureka Mignon Specialita + Lelit Grace for my first setup. Is it the correct way? Or maybe it will be better to save some money for something more expensive like the Ascaso Duo PID? What would you in my place? Are you happy with your decision? Greetings :D

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

@@D1MK4_ Well, the Duo PID is WAY more expensive, and has 2 thermoblocks, which is nice. They are both great machines in their respective price classes. I would see which one you can get the better deal on, in your market.

[@D1MK4_]

​@@TomsCoffeeCorner Thanks for the response. Lelit grace is around 650 USD, the Ascaso Duo costs around 1700USD. Yeah, it is a big difference in price. Is it worth to pay that difference of money for Ascaso if I am making coffee only for me and my girlfriend? Or is it the overkill?

[@mrneversalty1702]

@@D1MK4_ Hey i am Happy with my Setup. I got some things Like an open watertank, cause the process of cleaning is difficult with the small hole of the Standard one. If you start to learn how to make Coffee, this is a good Budget equip. I Thing the coffeegame is a passion itsself. If you want to spend more, you can spend more in everything. A better Maschine, a better grinder and on and on... Wish U a great day.

[@michalsavatar7]

I recently purchased the Delonghi Dedica and as per your videos, I removed the metal part of the milk steamer to apparently get better results. For some reason, while steaming the milk, the plastic steamer made the most horrible ear piercing sound during the entire milk steming process. Worst of all, it did nothing to the milk......I mean zero foam, no matter how long I steamed it. Am I missing something? Do you have any idea what the problem could be? Thanks.

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Hi! Just try to keep the steam wand tip away from the metal pitcher, then it won't screech.

[@michalsavatar7]

@@TomsCoffeeCorner cheers. I'll give it another go.

[@jveverkacz]

Could you please try this model "PROFITEC GO ESPRESSO MACHINE" I would be very interested in your review.

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Hehehe, I would love to. @Profitec: could you please send me a model for review? Thank you for the suggestion - I will see if I can get my hands on one. Cheers!

[@deliascintea1377]

Which machine is better? Lelit glenda or miicoffee apex?

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Well, technically speaking the Apex is better, but I would go with the Glenda for heritage.

[@deliascintea1377]

​@@TomsCoffeeCorner Thank you for your answer. Would you recommend another machine up to 600 euros?

[@Bigjuergo]

is pid really important? does the without pid version also do its job?

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

It makes your shots more predictable. I'd still say there's a lot of other factors involved though in making a God shot.

[@emirhankank6649]

İ want to have 2 or 3 shot continuously. Is this machine capable? And what about warm up time?

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Sure, it can do that pretty well. But it does need a little recovery time, maybe 10-15 seconds I think after a shot, to have the temp stabilize again.

[@giusgius9299]

Which is your favourite whose cost is around max 500/600€?

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Lelit Grace - did a video on that one, too.

[@noorakbari6562]

I have such a hard time cleaning the steam wand after use. The milk cooks on it immediately because its so hot...I don't get how in the videos it looks so easy to clean. Am I doing something wrong here??

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

You need to do it immediately and use quite a wet rag.

[@ghassanco1]

I'm waiting for my oster to break down so I can get an expensive one.

[@Hillbillyspree]

This machine is 900 bucks. Not a bad deal but when the profitec go exists for 1k usd, it makes it pointless to get this.

[@VentoCruiser]

900 bucks?? How can it be so expensive compared to the European market, at under 600 €. I just got. my hands on a barely used one for under 300€.

[@johannesmtb1609]

Is the steam power on the lelit grace worse

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

I would say the Grace and Glenda steam about the same. Cheers!

[@rezartavdyli]

How much did you got this machine? That looks like antique for real😅

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

I borrowed this model from a friend, however this machine is still for sale on Amazon. But I think it has been replaced by the Grace or Victoria on the Lelit website. I have to say, I love the marketing idea of choosing feminine names for their machines. Bianca is the prettiest machine. 👍🏻 Cheers!

[@rezartavdyli]

@@TomsCoffeeCorner Yes its true Bianca i think its one of Lelit best machine that they have.

[@loupasternak]

You should review some of the dozens of CHEAP (besides the name brands) machines that litter amazon . I have no intention of paying $500-2000 for a coffee maker.

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Sure, make a suggestion. I will see what I can do.

[@loupasternak]

@@TomsCoffeeCorner Kwister and Gevi are two names that appear often on Amazon in the under $150 category. There are quite a few others listed as you can see. Reading the user reviews, it's hard to really tell if these are worth buying.

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

@@loupasternak Never heard of Kwister, and Gevi does not make 220V machines, so that makes things a little hard. I will probably be able to try a Gevi "20 bar" in the summer though. Cheers!

[@loupasternak]

@@TomsCoffeeCorner yeah, Kwister machines seem to sell quite well. I see you're in Europe , so might have a different selection.

[@loupasternak]

Best $25,000 i ever spent

[@TomsCoffeeCorner]

Haha, which currency are you talking about?

[@jeet-Seattle]

👍👍👍👏👏👏

[@svetlanal9112]

☕️☕️❤

[@valfanculo4614]

kzbin.infoDXBdaQqaG1U - i have the anna V2 - this is what i can do with this lelit - if anyone cant pull a good shot on the lelit - maybe its not the machine - thats the problem - if working two toggle switches too much work - better just go buy your coffee made - its the easiest machine i have used - its consistence - its not the best out there - i would have liked a 58MM basket - and more weight to the machine - but cant complain - goin on 5 years - not a problem - the first lelit had no PID - its still going on 11 years - gave it away just to buy the new one - if you cant pull a creamy shot - the user needs to work on there skills - dosing - grinding and the beans used - i make shots like the one above day in and day out - all different beans - that one was a dark roast

[@ДмитрийКухарев-б3ж]

Этот шандон по русски гр ит?