By: The Caffeinated Gear Team
We’ve had the pleasure of testing the Profitec Pro 600, courtesy of Bella Barista, who kindly provided both this machine and the Eureka Atom Speciality 65 grinder for our thorough testing process.
The Profitec Pro 600 Espresso Machine and Eureka Atom Speciality 65 Grinder.
Before diving into our hands-on experience, let’s explore the fascinating heritage behind Profitec.
Founded in Heidelberg, Germany in 1985, Profitec began its journey as a distributor for renowned espresso machine brands including Gaggia, Vibiemme, La Pavoni & La Cimbali.
Their story took an exciting turn in the mid-90s when they ventured into designing their own machines, manufactured in Milan under the ECM brand name – which many coffee enthusiasts will recognise today.
The Profitec brand as we know it emerged in 2012 when they launched a distinctive new range of machines under their original name. This makes Profitec and ECM sister brands, sharing the same commitment to exceptional German engineering.
Now, let’s get into our detailed review:
Meet the Profitec Pro 600, the brilliant younger sibling of the Profitec pro 700. While the Pro 700 shines at £2100, the Pro 600 brings similar excellence to a more accessible price point for home coffee enthusiasts.
30.5 wide x 45.0 deep x 39.5 mm tall, 24kg.
In our testing, we found the full lever E61 group to be a standout feature, matching its Pro 700 sibling. Unlike simpler E61 implementations, this version includes manual mechanical pre-infusion and a premium stainless steel mushroom valve with single top nut configuration.
The sophisticated PID system offers independent temperature control for both boilers – a feature we particularly value. A brilliant energy-saving touch: you can switch off the steam boiler when you’re focusing solely on espresso shots.
The machine sports a 0.75L brew boiler (identical to the Pro 700) and a 1L steam boiler (compared to the Pro 700’s 2L version). Both boilers are crafted from high-grade stainless steel.
The 2.8L water reservoir provides ample capacity. Unlike its bigger sibling, the Pro 600 operates exclusively as a reservoir-fed machine.
We love how intuitive the shot timer is – it activates automatically post-pre-infusion and stops when you finish the shot, displaying the time for 5 seconds afterwards.
The PID includes a clever maintenance feature: customisable backflush reminders based on shot count. Perfect for consistency: set your preferred interval, and never miss a maintenance cycle.
Another thoughtful PID feature allows you to programme automatic boiler shutdown after a set period – though we’ll discuss later why this might not be as crucial as you’d think.
The comprehensive package includes single and double spout portafilters with matching baskets, plus 2-hole and 4-hole steam tips and a backflush disk. Smart storage solution: there’s a convenient cut-out under the drip tray for these accessories.
Adjusting brew pressure couldn’t be simpler – just remove the drip tray and use a flat-head screwdriver. No need to open the machine.
While the Pro 700 uses a rotary pump, the Pro 600 features a specially designed “quiet” vibration pump. Our thoughts on its actual noise levels? Keep reading to find out.
The machine employs premium low-wear sprung valves for both water and steam functions, significantly extending their lifespan compared to standard rotary valves.
Let’s move on to what really matters:
Our team’s extensive hands-on testing reveals the daily experience you can expect – going well beyond what manufacturer specifications can tell you.
First impressions speak volumes, and this machine certainly makes a statement. When we first attempted to unbox it, its substantial weight immediately conveyed its build quality. The construction reminds us of premium German automotive engineering – think Audi Q5 level of refinement, while the Pro 700 might be the Q7 of the range.
This machine exemplifies classic German engineering philosophy: attention to detail takes priority over cutting corners. While this approach typically results in a higher price point, the enhanced user experience often justifies the investment.
Similar to a premium German car, using this espresso machine is pure pleasure. Every component functions with precision, and with proper maintenance, we expect this machine to provide years of reliable service.
For context, we recently reviewed the ACS Minima from Bella Barista. While we rate that machine highly, the £450 price difference between these models becomes apparent in both aesthetics and user experience. The Minima is excellent, but the Pro 600’s premium build quality is unmistakable.
Curious about our thoughts on the ACS Minima? Check out our detailed review:
When comparing these machines, we’ve found that the tactile experience of pulling shots differs significantly between the lever mechanism and metal switch.
The water tank design reveals interesting contrasts in manufacturing approaches. While the ACS Minima opts for a straightforward plastic reservoir, the Pro 600 features a purpose-built water tank.
The Pro 600’s water system integration shows more refined engineering, with a precise valve mechanism at the reservoir’s base that connects seamlessly with the machine. In contrast, the Minima employs a simpler solution: a plastic tube extends from the machine’s interior, entering the reservoir through an opening at the top. Mind you, these design variations don’t impact coffee quality or machine performance.
To draw a parallel from the automotive world (something we coffee enthusiasts often do), consider the Audi Q5 compared to similar vehicles. Just as the Skoda Kodiaq, Seat Tarraco, and Mitsubishi Outlander occupy the same market segment as the Q5, they deliver comparable results through different approaches.
Speaking from personal experience with both the automotive and coffee worlds, it’s rather like choosing between our test machines. The Mitsubishi Outlander, while brilliant in its own right, offers a different driving experience from an Audi Q5’s refined luxury. Yet when weighing practical value against premium pricing, our team often ponders: does the enhanced experience justify the additional investment?
Earlier in our testing, we noted the manufacturer’s claim about the “quiet” vibratory pump. After extensive use, we can confirm this isn’t just marketing speak – this machine runs notably quieter than typical vibe pump models. While the Pro 700’s rotary pump might edge ahead in noise reduction, the difference isn’t as dramatic as you might expect.
It’s worth noting that the Pro 700’s rotary pump also enables direct plumbing capabilities, something the Pro 600’s vibration pump doesn’t easily accommodate. While not impossible to plumb in a vibe pump machine, it’s generally more trouble than it’s worth.
In our experience testing countless espresso machines, we’ve learned that choosing the right machine depends heavily on individual circumstances. The physical setup location and personal preferences play crucial roles in making the right selection.
The positioning of the ACS Minima’s right-side cutout, where the steam and water rotary valves are located, requires careful consideration for your kitchen layout.
If you’re planning to position your machine in a right corner, this design might present some challenges.
Speaking from personal experience, after years of typing, drumming, guitar playing and martial arts training, I’ve developed some wrist sensitivity.
This makes operating front-facing rotary valves, like those on the Pro 600 and many other espresso machines, slightly more challenging compared to side-mounted options.
While it’s not a deal-breaker, the side-mounted valve configuration of the ACS Minima suits my needs brilliantly.
Of course, not everyone shares my wrist concerns or kitchen setup, so your mileage may vary.
The machine’s 2-bar steam pressure capability is quite remarkable.
According to Whole Latte Love, the Pro 600 can steam 6 oz of milk to 60°C in under 20 seconds – brilliant timing if you’re steaming milk whilst pulling your shot.
Our testing revealed slightly different results.
Even with the steam boiler temperature at maximum for 2-bar pressure, we achieved 60°C in roughly 40 seconds.
We attribute this difference to having only the 2-hole steam tip available – the 4-hole tip would likely deliver faster results.
Nevertheless, having your milk ready 15-20 seconds after your shot finishes is perfectly acceptable for most home baristas.
The generous 2.8L water tank offers both quality and convenience.
Its BPA-free construction and straightforward removal system make refills a breeze.
The bottom-mounted valve connects seamlessly with the machine.
For those interested in plumbing options, we recommend checking out the Profitec Pro 700.
The drip tray’s substantial capacity proved more than adequate during our testing period.
Even for those of us who aren’t always the tidiest baristas (guilty as charged!), this tray prevents the dreaded counter flooding we’ve experienced with other machines.
The tray’s construction exemplifies German engineering excellence.
Its heavyweight stainless steel build gives it a satisfying heft even when empty.
The thoughtful design includes a clever storage area behind the tray for the spare steam tip, blanking disk, and brew pressure adjustment screw.
The insulated steam and water pipes are a welcome safety feature, remaining comfortable to touch during operation.
Do note that the E61 group head isn’t insulated, so mind your knuckles during use.
Once fully heated, the metal components of the steam and water rotary dials also reach considerable temperatures.
During our extensive testing period at Caffeinated Gear, we conducted a practical experiment regarding the Pro 600’s energy consumption.
While we certainly don’t recommend leaving your machine on unnecessarily, our accidental all-day test yielded some surprising results.
Using a smart meter to track consumption, we discovered that leaving the machine on for an entire day only increased our electricity costs by approximately 25 pence.
Although this seems remarkably efficient, we should note this wasn’t conducted under strict laboratory conditions.
For those watching their budget, the Profitec 500 offers a compelling alternative.
This heat exchanger version shares many features with the Pro 600: the E61 group head, PID temperature control, and dual pressure gauges.
The main difference? It uses a heat exchanger system instead of dual boilers, resulting in a £300 price reduction.
Another option is the Profitec 300, priced at £1,249 – £450 less than the Pro 600.
This dual boiler machine features a ring group (which heats up faster than an E61), single pressure gauge, PID control, 325ml brass brew boiler, and a 750ml stainless steel steam boiler.
In the same performance category, we’ve thoroughly tested the Lelit Bianca.
This E61 machine stands out with its pressure profiling paddle – though we must admit, mastering this feature requires dedication and practice!
The Rocket R58 presents another excellent dual boiler option.
Sharing many features with the Pro 600, including the E61 group head, dual pressure gauges, PID control, and adjustable brew pressure, it differentiates itself with a rotary pump and larger 1.8L steam boiler (compared to the Pro 600’s 1L).
At £1,999, it sits £300 above the Pro 600’s price point.
Our recent review of the ACS Minima highlighted another strong contender.
This dual boiler machine features an E61 group, single pressure gauge, shot timer, and impressive steam capability thanks to its 2.3L steam boiler paired with a 0.8L brew boiler.
For additional dual boiler options, we recommend browsing Bella Barista’s complete range of dual boiler machines.
If you’re open to heat exchanger models, their comprehensive heat exchanger collection is worth exploring.
And with that, we wrap up our detailed examination of the Profitec Pro 600.
Special thanks to Bella Barista for providing this machine for our thorough testing process.
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