Two handcrafted espresso machines. One mission: bring café-grade performance to homes across the globe. So, which Ascaso Steel model fits your daily ritual?
A Tale of Two Home Barista Workhorses
In the world of home espresso, few machines blend café-grade performance with countertop-ready design like Ascaso’s Steel line. Crafted in Barcelona, both the Steel UNO and Steel DUO Plus bring commercial-level precision and features to home use, but they’re tuned for different brewing lifestyles.
Here’s how they compare in design, performance, and daily workflow.
Crafted in Barcelona: The Steel Line Philosophy
Every Ascaso machine reflects a simple truth: Espresso machines should be beautiful and built to last. The Steel series blends industrial durability with compact modern form, using stainless steel, walnut, and powder-coated or stainless finishes that age gracefully.
Both espresso machine models include the following features:
- A 58 mm professional portafilter
- PID-controlled brewing temperature
- Energy-saving standby mode
The difference between these two home espresso machines lies in where you want to take your espresso craft.
One Block or Two: The Heating Difference
The UNO’s single thermoblock offers fast warm-up times and rock-solid shot pulling stability, so it’s ideal for those who prioritize espresso quality over milk-based drinks.
The DUO Plus adds a second thermoblock, separating the brew and steam circuits. This lets you pull a shot and texture milk at the same time — no waiting, no temperature drop, just a fluid workflow that feels truly café-grade.
| Feature | Steel UNO | Steel DUO Plus |
| Heating system | Single thermoblock | Dual thermoblock |
| Simultaneous brew + steam | No | Yes |
| Ideal for | Espresso-focused users, those looking for more affordability | Milk drink lovers, multitaskers,those in a rush |
Precision in Every Shot
Both machines feature Ascaso’s PID temperature control, letting you fine-tune brewing temperature, pre-infusion, and volumetric dosing.
Both of these home espresso machines offer:
- Digital temperature display and control
- Programmable single and double shot buttons
- Adjustable OPV for pressure tuning
- Eco mode for energy savings
Steam Power That Feels Professional
Steaming is where the two machines truly diverge.
The Steel UNO uses the same thermoblock for both brewing and steaming. It’s ideal for espresso-first users who occasionally make milk drinks. The no-burn steam wand provides safety and control, but you’ll have to steam after pulling your shot.
Whereas the Steel DUO Plus is equipped with a dedicated steam thermoblock, joystick-style wand, and interchangeable 1- and 3-hole tips. You can steam milk and brew espresso simultaneously — the smooth, uninterrupted rhythm baristas love.
Designed for the Daily Ritual
Every Ascaso machine is built for more than performance — it’s built for the rhythm of your morning ritual. In the Steel line, the lock of the portafilter and the gentle PID glow reflect that intention. These aren’t just machines that make espresso; they’re tools that become part of your routine.
The DUO Plus steps up with a competition-grade shower screen, bottomless portafilter, and multiple precision baskets (7g, 14g, 18g, 21g, and blind). It’s built for espresso lovers who experiment, refine, and care about every detail.
Built to Last and Backed to Prove It
Ascaso favors stainless-steel internals over other materials, reducing corrosion and maintaining water quality over time.
Both models include a 5-year warranty on the thermoblock and group system and a 1-year warranty on all other components. Every element reflects longevity by design; the kind of build you feel every morning when you lock in the portafilter.
Power Requirements: Know Before You Plug In
While both machines are built for home use, their electrical setups differ slightly:
- Steel UNO: 120 V / 15 A (standard U.S. outlet)
- Steel DUO Plus: 120 V / 20 A (dedicated circuit recommended for best performance)
That extra amperage gives the DUO Plus enough power to run both thermoblocks simultaneously, which is the key to its seamless brew-and-steam performance. Before ordering, check that your kitchen circuit can handle a 20-amp load.
Which Ascaso Espresso Machine Fits Your Routine?
Go for the Steel UNO if you prefer espresso simplicity with occasional milk drinks, want a compact, minimalist setup, appreciate commercial-grade quality without extra complexity, and want to save a little.
Choose the Steel DUO Plus if you make milk drinks daily and want to steam while you brew, value dual-temperature control and ergonomic design details, and want a complete barista toolkit, including multiple baskets and a bottomless portafilter
The Final Shot
Both the UNO and DUO Plus carry Ascaso’s signature balance of precision, design, and hand-built craftsmanship. The UNO is perfect for those who value purity and ritual in every espresso. The DUO Plus takes that same precision further delivering café-level workflow and control that transforms how you make coffee at home.
Whichever you choose, you’re bringing more than a machine to your counter — you’re bringing home a piece of Barcelona’s espresso heritage.
