The Strada S is a powerful espresso machine that’s well-suited for busy settings, and the modernized version of the original 2009 Strada machine. The lower-profile design and expanded drip trays give baristas optimal space to dial in espresso recipes consistently, while the independent boilers maintain thermal stability throughout the busiest shifts.
Busy coffee shops that want a reliable machine that prioritizes espresso precision and barista efficiency—but don’t need the advanced pressure-profiling features of the Strada X.
Fresh Cup uses a scoring rubric to rate espresso machines on a variety of metrics. See our scoring rubric:
Program Sophistication
Gauges how deep and precise a café’s espresso program can be on the machine, and how much barista training it demands. Level 1 covers capsule or batch-brew stations, while Level 5 delivers full pressure/flow profiling, integrated scales, data logging and IoT connectivity for competition-grade menus.
Volume Capability
Reflects the peak drinks-per-hour the machine can maintain without recovery issues. Scores run from under 30 drinks (Level 1, boutique bar) to 120+ drinks per hour (Level 5, drive-thru chains or stadium kiosks).
Automation Support
Measures how many routine tasks the machine handles on its own—dosing, flushing, milk steaming and self-cleaning. It spans fully manual levers (Level 1) up to bean-to-cup super-automatic sequences (Level 5).
Extraction Control
Rates the operator’s control over brewing variables. Entry levels lock in temperature and pump pressure; mid-levels add independent PIDs and programmable pre-infusion; Level 5 delivers full pressure/flow profiles with live data logging.
Workflow & Ergonomics
Assesses how the machine’s physical design speeds service and reduces fatigue. Higher scores denote low-profile bodies, cool-touch or auto-purge steam wands, intuitive UIs and other features that minimise repetitive strain.
Tech & Connectivity
Looks at the depth of digital features—from simple PID displays and shot timers (Level 2) up to Wi-Fi dashboards, cloud telemetry, open APIs and fleet-management suites (Level 5).
Design Customization
Captures how extensively the machine’s appearance and UI can be tailored. Level 1 models ship in a single finish; mid-range offers swappable colour panels or logo plates; Level 5 machines feature fully modular skins and deep UI-branding options.
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An exploration into La Marzocco’s product line.
Key features and innovations | Best machines by setting | What to know before you buy
A compact form factor promotes customer engagement while allowing for unique colorways, finishes, or configurations that reflect a brand’s style.
Programmable Doses
Volumetric control streamlines repeatability, making it ideal for busy environments that demand consistent shot quality. Optional integrated scales (ABR) take precision to the next level.
Proportional Steam Valve
A lever-style system that enables precise steam control. This nuanced approach to steaming sets it apart from on/off systems, especially for those fine-tuning texture and temperature.
Independent Saturated Boilers
Each group head has its own boiler, helping maintain stable brew temperatures even under heavy workloads. This distinction can be a key differentiator in multi-group setups.
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All Specs
Height (cm/in)50 / 19.7
Width (cm/in)83 / 32.7
Depth (cm/in)69 / 27.2
Weight (kg/lbs)77 / 169.4
Voltage (VAC)220 single phase
Wattage (min)4330
Wattage (max)5666
Coffee Boiler Capacity (liters)2.6
Steam Boiler Capacity (liters)8.2
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We hand-match coffee shops, restaurants, and other businesses to commercial espresso machines, and the people that sell them, that are right for your goals and needs, quickly.
