For shoppers searching for an HX E61 espresso machine, these three Diletta options offer the same basic appeal: a heat exchanger for brewing and steaming at once, paired with manual control. I rank the Diletta Bello+ first for its PID, shot timer, and programmable preinfusion; the Bello+ and Eureka grinder bundle is the most complete setup for someone starting from whole beans; and the original Bello keeps things simpler for buyers who want the core machine without the added electronic features. The choice comes down to how much control and setup convenience you want: the Bello+ adds temperature guidance, the bundle supplies a matching grinder, and the original favors a more traditional workflow.
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Key Takeaways
- Bello+ is my best overall pick because its PID display, shot timer, and programmable preinfusion add useful control to the shared heat-exchanger platform.
- The grinder bundle suits whole-bean buyers who want a Eureka Mignon Specialita with stepless adjustment and timed dosing alongside the Bello+.
- The original Bello is the simplest machine choice, retaining simultaneous brewing and steaming while omitting the Bello+’s stated PID and preinfusion features.
- All three are hands-on semi-automatic options; manual brew and steam controls reward practice but call for active attention.
- Check your available counter space and workflow: the Bello+ measures 17.75 × 11 × 14.5 inches, while the bundle weighs 58 pounds and includes a separate grinder.
| Diletta Bello+ E61 Espresso Machine with PID Temperature Control (Black) |  | Best Overall | Machine type: Heat-exchanger espresso machine | Operation: Semi-automatic | Boiler capacity: 3 liters | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Diletta Bello+ Espresso Machine and Eureka Mignon Specialita Grinder Bundle |  | Best Complete Setup | Machine: Diletta Bello+ semi-automatic heat-exchanger | Boiler capacity: 3 liters | Temperature control: PID | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Diletta Bello Espresso Machine, Stainless Steel |  | Best for a Traditional Manual Workflow | Boiler type: Heat exchanger | Boiler capacity: 3 liters | Controls: Manual brew and steam | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| hx e61 espresso machine | Boiler capacity | Temperature control | Preinfusion |
|---|---|---|---|
| Diletta Bello+ E61 Espresso Ma | 3 liters | PID display | Programmable up to 10 seconds |
| Diletta Bello+ Espresso Machin | 3 liters | PID | Programmable up to 10 seconds |
| Diletta Bello Espresso Machine | 3 liters | — | — |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Diletta Bello+ E61 Espresso Machine with PID Temperature Control (Black)
The Diletta Bello+ is my top choice for buyers who want the hands-on workflow of an HX machine but appreciate extra feedback while dialing in. Its PID display also serves as a shot timer, while programmable preinfusion up to 10 seconds lets the operator set a short wetting phase before full extraction. Those controls give it a practical advantage over the original Bello, whose description lists manual brew and steam operation but no PID or programmable preinfusion.
Its 3-liter heat-exchanger boiler supports brewing and steaming at the same time, which is useful when preparing milk drinks in sequence. The stainless steel case, frame, and boiler are described as handmade in Milan, and the enlarged drip tray gives spent water and drips more room. Eco Mode offers an energy-saving option, though the machine still asks the user to operate brew and steam manually. PID features can guide a workflow, but they do not turn this into an automatic machine.
Compared with the Bello+ grinder bundle, this standalone pick makes sense if you already own a grinder or want to select one separately. Buyers starting from whole beans may prefer the bundle’s Eureka grinder, which includes stepless adjustment and timed dosing. I would skip the Bello+ if you want push-button milk drinks, automated shot recipes, or a compact countertop footprint: at 17.75 inches deep, it needs room for its body and working space.
Pros:- PID display also works as a shot timer
- Programmable preinfusion up to 10 seconds
- Heat exchanger supports brewing and steaming at once
- Stainless steel construction and enlarged drip tray
Cons:- Manual brew and steam controls require active operation
- A grinder is not included
Best for: Home baristas who want an HX machine with PID feedback, a shot timer, and programmable preinfusion, and already have or plan to choose a grinder.
Not ideal for: Buyers seeking automatic brewing or steaming, or those with limited counter depth who need a smaller machine.
- Machine type:Heat-exchanger espresso machine
- Operation:Semi-automatic
- Boiler capacity:3 liters
- Temperature control:PID display
- Preinfusion:Programmable up to 10 seconds
- Power:1500 watts, 120 volts
- Dimensions:17.75 × 11 × 14.5 inches (D × W × H)
- Material and origin:Stainless steel; built by hand in Milan, Italy
Our verdict“Choose the Bello+ for the most shot-control features in this lineup, provided you are comfortable managing the brew and steam controls yourself.”
Diletta Bello+ Espresso Machine and Eureka Mignon Specialita Grinder Bundle
This bundle is the clearest route for a buyer who needs both an espresso machine and a grinder. It pairs the Bello+ with a Eureka Mignon Specialita, so whole-bean buyers get a grinder with 55 mm hardened steel flat burrs, stepless adjustment, and single, double, or continuous dosing. Compared with buying the Bello+ alone, the bundle narrows the setup work by putting a grinder in the package; compared with the original Bello, it adds the temperature and shot-control features as well.
The grinder’s stepless adjustment matters because espresso dialing often calls for small grind changes. Timed dosing can make repeated portions easier to manage, while quiet operation may be welcome in a shared home. The machine itself retains the Bello+’s PID, timer, programmable preinfusion, and manual brew and steam controls. This is a more complete setup, but it remains a hands-on one: the grinder’s dosing modes do not automate puck preparation, extraction decisions, or milk steaming.
At a stated 58 pounds for the bundle, moving or rearranging the equipment takes planning. It also claims more counter space than the standalone machine because the grinder sits alongside it. If you already have a capable grinder, I would favor the standalone Bello+ and avoid buying duplicate equipment. If you do not, this bundle has a distinct convenience advantage over the original Bello, which has no grinder included in the supplied description.
Pros:- Includes the Bello+ espresso machine and Eureka Mignon Specialita grinder
- Grinder has 55 mm flat burrs and stepless adjustment
- Timed single, double, and continuous dosing
- Bello+ adds PID temperature control and programmable preinfusion
Cons:- The stated bundle weight is 58 pounds
- Manual brewing and steaming still require user attention
- Takes more counter space than the machine alone
Best for: Whole-bean espresso drinkers who want the Bello+ controls and a matched grinder with stepless adjustment and timed dosing.
Not ideal for: Anyone who already owns a suitable espresso grinder, wants a lightweight setup, or expects the grinder to automate the full brewing process.
- Machine:Diletta Bello+ semi-automatic heat-exchanger
- Boiler capacity:3 liters
- Temperature control:PID
- Preinfusion:Programmable up to 10 seconds
- Grinder burrs:55 mm hardened steel flat burrs
- Grind adjustment:Stepless
- Dosing modes:Single, double, and continuous
- Power and voltage:1500 watts, 120 volts
- Bundle weight:58 pounds
Our verdict“Pick the bundle if you need a grinder as well as an HX machine; choose the standalone Bello+ if your grinder is already covered.”
Diletta Bello Espresso Machine, Stainless Steel
The original Diletta Bello is for buyers who want the core heat-exchanger format without the Bello+’s listed PID, shot timer, and programmable preinfusion. Its appeal is a straightforward combination of a 3-liter heat exchanger, manual brew and steam controls, and stainless steel case, frame, and boiler. Like the Bello+ models, it can brew and steam simultaneously, so it retains the main workflow advantage these machines share.
Where the original gives up ground is shot guidance. Compared with the Bello+, it offers fewer listed electronic tools for tracking a shot or setting preinfusion, so the operator must rely more on their own timing and process. That may suit someone who wants direct control and does not need a timer on the machine, but it asks more of a new barista. The optional 60-minute eco timer also differs from the Bello+’s described Eco Mode: the original’s timer is activated by a switch beneath the case and is optional.
This is the simplest machine-only pick in the trio, though not necessarily the simplest for a beginner to operate. It has no grinder in the supplied product description, so whole-bean buyers must plan for that separately; the bundle is more turnkey, while the standalone Bello+ provides more shot feedback. I would choose the original when the traditional manual experience and core HX capability matter more than the added controls on its sibling.
Pros:- Heat exchanger allows brewing and steaming at the same time
- Stainless steel case, frame, and boiler
- Manual brew and steam operation
- Handcrafted in Milan, Italy
Cons:- Manual operation rewards practice and attention
- The 60-minute eco timer is optional
- No PID or programmable preinfusion is listed in the supplied details
Best for: Experienced or committed home baristas who want a manual HX machine with stainless steel construction and do not need listed PID or preinfusion controls.
Not ideal for: Beginners who want shot timing and programmable preinfusion built in, or anyone expecting an included grinder or standard eco timer.
- Boiler type:Heat exchanger
- Boiler capacity:3 liters
- Controls:Manual brew and steam
- Construction:Stainless steel case, frame, and boiler
- Origin:Handcrafted in Milan, Italy
- Finish options:Polished stainless, black, or white powdercoat
- Eco timer:Optional 60-minute timer
- Grinder:Not included in the supplied product details
Our verdict“The original Bello suits buyers who value a traditional manual HX setup and can forgo the Bello+’s added shot-control features.”
How We Picked
I ranked these options around what the phrase HX E61 espresso machine signals to a buyer: a heat-exchanger setup for making espresso and steaming milk in the same workflow, with the hands-on character associated with a traditional espresso machine. All three are Diletta Bello models with a 3-liter boiler and manual brew and steam controls, so the ranking turns on the differences that affect daily use rather than the shared platform alone.
The Bello+ takes the lead because PID temperature control, a shot timer, and programmable preinfusion give the operator more information and repeatability. The bundle ranks second for buyers who need a grinder, since its Eureka Mignon Specialita adds quiet operation, stepless adjustment, and timed dosing. It is a less flexible choice for someone who already owns a suitable grinder, and its stated 58-pound weight makes the full setup a substantial one to place. The original Bello comes third because it preserves the core HX workflow and stainless steel construction but has fewer listed shot-control features. This order reflects feature coverage and setup fit, not hands-on testing.
I also weighed the tradeoffs buyers should expect from a manual machine: these models require the user to manage brewing and steaming, and the original Bello’s eco timer is optional. I used only the supplied product details, so I do not make claims about unlisted E61 group specifications, temperature stability measurements, service needs, or shot quality.
| hx e61 espresso machine | Temperature control |
|---|---|
| Diletta Bello+ E61 Espresso Ma | PID display |
| Diletta Bello+ Espresso Machin | PID |
| Diletta Bello Espresso Machine | — |
Factors to Consider When Choosing Hx E61 Espresso Machine
I would choose among these Diletta machines by matching their control level and included equipment to the way you make coffee. The heat-exchanger format is common to all three; the meaningful differences are shot feedback, grinder inclusion, and how much manual work you want to take on.Decide how much shot guidance you want
The Bello+ includes a PID display that doubles as a shot timer and programmable preinfusion up to 10 seconds. These features give you useful reference points as you adjust a recipe. The original Bello description does not list those controls, making it the more stripped-back choice. If you are learning espresso or value repeatable steps, the Bello+ has the stronger case; if you prefer a direct manual workflow, the original may be enough.
Account for the grinder before choosing
The bundle includes a Eureka Mignon Specialita with flat burrs, stepless adjustment, and timed dosing. That makes it the natural option if you are buying your first espresso setup and want to work with whole beans. The standalone Bello+ leaves grinder choice to you, which is preferable if you already own one or have specific grinder preferences. The original Bello listing also does not include a grinder in the details provided, so treat it as a machine purchase that needs a separate grinding plan.
Understand the hands-on HX workflow
All three machines have manual brew and steam controls, and their heat-exchanger design supports brewing while steaming. That combination is suited to people who want to coordinate the steps themselves, particularly when making milk drinks. The PID and timer on the Bello+ provide feedback, but they do not automate extraction or milk texture. If you want an appliance that handles those tasks with minimal input, this lineup is unlikely to fit your expectations.
Measure the counter and plan the setup
The Bello+ machine measures 17.75 × 11 × 14.5 inches, so measure the intended spot and leave usable room around it. A grinder bundle needs additional space for the Eureka and room to work with beans and a portafilter. Its stated weight is 58 pounds, which makes placement worth planning before delivery. Also distinguish the energy features: the Bello+ description includes Eco Mode, while the original Bello’s 60-minute eco timer is optional.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does HX mean on an espresso machine?
HX means heat exchanger. In these Diletta Bello machines, the design supports brewing espresso and steaming milk at the same time. That can make a milk-drink workflow more direct than waiting between separate brew and steam tasks, though the user still operates the brew and steam controls manually.
Which Diletta Bello model has PID temperature control?
The supplied details list PID temperature control on the Bello+ and on the Bello+ grinder bundle, since the bundle includes that machine. The original Bello description does not list PID. The Bello+ display also functions as a shot timer, giving it an additional point of reference while preparing espresso.
Is the grinder bundle a better choice than the standalone Bello+?
The bundle is a better fit if you need a grinder: it pairs the Bello+ with a Eureka Mignon Specialita featuring stepless adjustment and timed dosing. If you already have a capable grinder or want to choose a different one, the standalone Bello+ avoids duplicating equipment. The bundle is also heavier and needs room for both pieces.
Is the original Diletta Bello suitable for beginners?
A beginner can learn on the original Bello, but its manual brew and steam controls mean the operator must manage the process. The Bello+ may provide more guidance through its PID display, shot timer, and programmable preinfusion. Neither is described as an automatic machine, so a buyer seeking minimal involvement should look for a different type of espresso maker.
Do these machines include a grinder?
Only the Bello+ and Eureka Mignon Specialita bundle explicitly includes a grinder in the supplied product details. The standalone Bello+ and original Bello are machine-only listings as described here. Plan to use a separate grinder with either standalone model if you intend to prepare espresso from whole beans.
Conclusion
I recommend the Diletta Bello+ for the buyer who wants the strongest combination of shot feedback and HX capability in this comparison. Choose the grinder bundle if you are assembling a whole-bean setup and want the Eureka grinder included, with counter space and placement planned for both pieces. The original Bello is the fit for someone who wants a traditional manual machine and is comfortable giving up the Bello+’s listed PID and preinfusion controls. Across all three, expect to steer brewing and steaming yourself; choose according to how much guidance and equipment you want on the counter.
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