I am intrigued by the discussion on the rotary vs vibration pump in the Decent thread, so I did a bit research on the topic. I have always thought that Rotary is quieter + more expensive + lasts longer than vibration pump, but this video shows the difference is more than that (directly affected espresso quality)

Compare: Espresso Quality on Rotary and Vibration Pump Machines - YouTube

How true is that? I meant WLL is quite reputable but I’m not sure if they are cherry picking (they carry both machines btw)

    I’ve only ever had vibe pumps on lower-end machines so never been able to do a fair comparison.

    For me it’s purely down to the noise they make. Even if someone told me a vibration pump is 10x better than a rotary I’d still keep the rotary. I’ve never exactly been sensitive to noise (former hardcore band member, motorbike rider…) but the sound a vibration pump makes is a unique kind of offensive in my opinion.

      Ernie1 yes the sound is definitely the biggest difference. but it seems from the video, rotary pump allows immediate build up of pressure, and more stable flow rate, which ends up in better espresso, both visually and taste-wise. interesting if true

          delta76 yes the sound is definitely the biggest difference. but it seems from the video, rotary pump allows immediate build up of pressure, and more stable flow rate, which ends up in better espresso, both visually and taste-wise. interesting if true

          Sadly it isn’t true…if anything the more gradual build up of pressure from the Vibe pump gives the better shot, Rotaries, just sound nicer.

          delta76 I have always thought that Rotary is quieter + more expensive + lasts longer than vibration pump, but this video shows the difference is more than that (directly affected espresso quality)

          It’s quieter and more expensive, but in domestic use, believe it or not, the vibration pump probably lasts longer.

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                DavecUK :shockedpikachu:

                1. Probably does not matter with pre infusion I guess?

                2. Rotary is more suitable for continuous operation perhaps?


                  I was looking for some comparison of noise on youtube and the difference was striking. Make me realized how quiet the pump on Lelit Elizabeth is (compared to a vibration pump)

                    delta76 As @DavecUK has pointed out the quality should not be affected as the vibrations of the pump are not detectable after a few seconds (they are at quite high frequency) and the overall pressure is 9 bars (subject of calibrated OPV) and the coffee puck most likely doesn’t care which pump provides it as long as it is stable. I have had both, I definitely prefer the rotary pump, but there should not be difference in the cup.

                    Current setup: ACS Vesuvius, Nuova Simonelli Mythos One. Past experience, Nuova Simonelli Apia 1 gr., San Remo Capri 1 gr., Bezzera BZ 35e, Fracino Heavenly. Anfim Super Lusso.

                    Contact me at: john_yossarian11@yahoo.com

                        John_Yossarian from the video, the rotary pump has more stable output (stream of espresso). It definitely looks nicer. I don’t know if that is specific for that machine but the vibration pump is like “oozing” out espresso.

                        I am a little disappeared to see the difference is not as much, or as important as I have hoped (moving to a rotary one), but well, new things are learned today

                          I only heard that a vibratory pump made by Invensys is quiter than Ulka, don’t know if it’s really true.

                          It’s only a pump, it’s job is to supply pressure

                          Both ramp up fairly similar.

                          Noise is the biggest factor with these pumps.

                          Why I sold the ACS minima

                          Decent De1pro v1.45 - Niche Duo - Niche Zero - Decent is the best machine ever made -

                          delta76 Rotary is more suitable for continuous operation perhaps?

                          It’s better for commercial duty in multigroup machines.

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                            In my experience, the grinder setting must to be adapted between the 2 pumps, if WLL they kept the same setting, that’s what they get, but IMO it’s a wrong procedure to compare the 2 pumps.

                            DavecUK but in domestic use, believe it or not, the vibration pump probably lasts longer.

                            Would you know why Lelit, Profitec or ECM don’t make vibe pump versions of their top range machines If it’s better in a domestic environment? Would be good to give the end user the option, specially for those not considering plumbing the machine in.

                                MediumRoastSteam

                                I don’t know but I would guess because rotary is much quieter which gives off the higher end impression. Most if not all people will not care if their pump will last only 10 years instead of 12 years, but they will notice the noise, and be happy that their expensive machine is using an expensive, prosumer/commercial grade pump