Flair 58 Plus 2 Review

Quick Answer

The Flair 58 Plus 2 is a standout espresso maker that works both manually and with automation. Flair’s own product page covers the PID and 58mm group. Its precise temperature control and clean design make it my top pick for anyone who wants to get serious about espresso at home, though you’ll need some patience to master it. Its closest rival costs about the same, and we settle that fight in our Flair 58 versus Cafelat Robot showdown.

Our Top Picks

Product	Best For	Key Spec	Price Tier
Flair 58 Plus 2	Versatility & Performance	58mm portafilter, PID control	Premium
Breville BES870XL	Beginner Baristas	15-bar pump, integrated grinder	Mid-range
Rancilio Silvia	Professionals	58mm portafilter, commercial steam wand	Premium
Gaggia Classic Pro	Value for Money	15-bar pump, stainless steel	Budget
De’Longhi EC155	Budget-Friendly	15-bar pump, compact design	Budget

Detailed Reviews

Flair 58 Plus 2

The Flair 58 Plus 2 is all about precision brewing. The PID temperature control keeps things consistent shot after shot, and that 58mm portafilter means you’re playing with pro-level equipment.

Key Specs:

• Key Spec: 58mm portafilter, PID control
• Price Tier: Premium

Pros:

• Temperature stability that rivals machines twice the price
• Clean, simple design that’s actually enjoyable to use
• Switch between manual control and automation depending on your mood

Cons:

• You’ll pull some terrible shots while learning (we all do)
• Nearly $900 is steep for a manual machine

Best for: Coffee geeks who want to tinker and perfect their technique—the same crowd that gravitates toward the fully hand-powered Cafelat Robot. If you just want to push a button and get coffee, look elsewhere.

Breville BES870XL

This one surprised me with how beginner-friendly it is. The built-in grinder saves counter space and the guesswork of grind size.

Key Specs:

• Key Spec: 15-bar pump, integrated grinder
• Price Tier: Mid-range

Pros:

• That conical burr grinder is genuinely good
• Foolproof interface with helpful presets
• Fits in smaller kitchens without looking cramped

Cons:

• The grinder sounds like a construction site at 7 AM
• Temperature control is pretty basic

Best for: Anyone who wants decent espresso without becoming a part-time barista.

Rancilio Silvia

This machine means business. Built like a tank with a steam wand that could probably power a small café.

Key Specs:

• Key Spec: 58mm portafilter, commercial steam wand
• Price Tier: Premium

Pros:

• Will outlast your kitchen renovation
• Steam wand creates microfoam that’ll make you feel like a pro
• Easy to fix if something breaks

Cons:

• No grinder means another $300+ investment, though a quality manual grinder built for espresso softens the blow
• Intimidating if you’re just starting out

Best for: Experienced users who want restaurant-quality results and don’t mind the learning curve.

Gaggia Classic Pro

Honestly, this machine punches way above its weight class. For under $600, you’re getting solid espresso without the fancy bells and whistles.

Key Specs:

• Key Spec: 15-bar pump, stainless steel body
• Price Tier: Budget

Pros:

• Unbeatable value for the price
• Stainless steel body won’t fall apart after a year
• Steam wand works well once you get the hang of it

Cons:

• Pretty basic feature set
• Takes practice to dial in consistent shots

Best for: Budget-conscious coffee lovers who want quality without breaking the bank.

De’Longhi EC155

I’d skip this unless you really need the cheapest option possible. It works, but barely.

Key Specs:

• Key Spec: 15-bar pump, compact design
• Price Tier: Budget

Pros:

• Cheap enough to try espresso without commitment
• Fits anywhere
• Heats up fast

Cons:

• Don’t expect it to last more than a year or two
• Makes espresso-adjacent drinks at best

Best for: Complete beginners who want to experiment before investing in something better.

How We Evaluated

We compared these machines on what actually matters:

• Performance: Does it make good espresso with decent crema?
• Noise: Can you use it without waking the whole house?
• Maintenance Cost: Are parts available and reasonably priced?
• Room Size: Will it fit on your counter?
• Value: Do you get what you pay for?

Buying Guide

Here’s what to think about before buying:

• Type of Machine: Manual gives you control, automatic gives you convenience. Pick based on how involved you want to be, and browse our favorite lever-driven espresso machines if the hands-on route appeals.
• Size and Design: Measure your counter space first. Trust me on this one.
• Features: PID temperature control and quality steam wands make a huge difference.
• Budget: Factor in grinder costs if the machine doesn’t include one.
• Brand Reputation: Stick with companies that’ll be around to honor warranties.

FAQ

What is the difference between manual and automatic espresso machines?

Manual machines let you control every variable but require skill and patience. Automatic machines do most of the work but limit your control over the final result.

How often should I clean my espresso machine?

Rinse after every use, deep clean weekly if you’re using it daily. Your taste buds will thank you.

Can I make other types of coffee with an espresso machine?

Absolutely. Americanos, cappuccinos, lattes - espresso is just the base.

What should I look for in terms of warranty?

Longer warranties usually mean the company stands behind their product. Look for at least 2 years.

Are there any safety features I should consider?

Auto shut-off is essential. Some machines get hot enough to cause real damage if left unattended.

The Flair 58 Plus 2 earned the top spot because it bridges the gap between manual precision and automated convenience. It’s not cheap, but if you’re serious about espresso, the investment pays off in every cup.