What is the Difference Between the ECM Synchronika II and the Profitec Drive?
If you have been looking at high-end coffee machines for home, two names appear time and time again; the ECM Synchronika 2 (CM100012-00/86294) and the Profitec Drive (CM500009-00). Both German-made, dual boiler espresso machines designed for serious home baristas.
These machines share a lot of resemblance (Synchronika 2 is the first one, Drive is the second) and that's no accident. They are made by sister companies and share a design philosophy built around precision and reliability. Both machines can easily outperform many commercial espresso machines, but the details are what matter the most.
This comparison breaks down the pros and cons of the Synchronika II and the Drive, hopefully helping you decide which espresso machine is right for your setup.
Shared Strengths
Before we dive into what separates them, it's worth pointing out that both the Synchronika II and Drive have a lot in common.
Both machines feature a dual boiler system - a 2L stainless steel steam boiler and a 0.75L brew boiler. Meaning that you can steam and brew at the same time and have precise temperature control. Both coffee machines use PID technology allowing for active and passive pre-infusion, and they include a shot timer for precision.
The Synchronika 2 and the Drive both feature quiet rotary pumps that allow these machines to be plumbed in to a fixed water source or alternatively operate on their reservoirs.
Both machines are fitted with 2-hole steam tips which can be useful for controlled milk steaming, but I would always suggest that buyers upgrade to a 4-hole steam tip. 4-hole steam tips provide much quicker steaming times and are more suitable for large quantities of milk. Make sure you buy the correct steam tip for your machine as there is a Profitec 4-hole steam tip and an ECM 4-hole steam tip.
These are high-end, semi automatic machines with the iconic E61 grouphead, the same style you would find on many of the world's best espresso machines. While both of these are large coffee machines, the high quality outputs make them worth the counter space.
ECM Synchronika II
The ECM Synchronika has long been considered a benchmark in the world of prosumer espresso. With this second version, ECM has refined the formula even further.
Synchronika II - Pros
The most notable feature on the Synchronika 2 is its super fast heat-up time of around 6.5 minutes. This is achieved by a heating element inside the brew group itself, meaning you can go from a cold start to pulling high-quality shots in almost half the time of the Drive. This speed is a game changer for anyone rushing out the door in the morning.
The Synchronika II also stands out when it comes to build quality and aesthetics. It is expertly crafted from high-quality, polished stainless steel with mirror-finished panels and chrome accents on the steam wand, brew lever and portafilter.
If this wasn't enough already, you also have the option to customise the machine's appearance further. ECM offer an olive wood set which includes a wooden handle portafilter, one wooden brew lever handle and two lever handles.
ECM have even designed their portafilter to sit flat on the counter for easy tamping, while the tamper included matches the machine's sleek design.
Synchronika II - Cons
For the sake of comparing this machine to the Drive we have to be picky to find the negatives, and despite its strengths, the Synchronika II does have a few drawbacks.
The most obvious downside is that it does not include a built-in flow control system. While you can add one, it comes at an additional cost of approximately €200 (at the time of writing this blog!). Lots of customers would argue that for the price you pay for the Synchronika II, it really should include a built-in flow control system.
Once you factor in the price of the espresso machine, the flow control valve and a quality coffee grinder, the overall investment can be quite significant.
This machine is also physically large which may not suit smaller kitchens, without the portafilter the dimensions are W: 335 x D: 490 x H: 410 mm. Some feedback we have received on the Synchronika 2 is that the drip tray is shallower than some prefer, while this is a small issue it is still worth noting.
Profitec Drive
The Profitec Drive builds on the company's popular Pro 700 model and has quickly become a favourite for home baristas since its release.
Drive - Pros
The Drive's most notable feature for comparison is the inclusion of flow control as standard. The built-in flow control system has an orange gauge that lets you make real time adjustments to the flow of water through the coffee puck. This is especially useful if you're interested in experimenting with water extraction.
The Drive isn't quite as quick to heat up as the Synchronika II, but at around 11 minutes it is still much faster than many competing espresso machines. Like the ECM, it offers active and passive pre-infusion and its joystick steam wand allows for easy milk steaming from any direction.
The Profitec Drive focuses heavily on usability but they have not left out room for customisation. Profitec offers wooden or concrete tilt valve handles, tamper handles and portafilter handles. The Drive also has an option of a matt black finish instead of the mirror-polished finish.
Drive - Cons
In terms of negatives, the Profitec Drive heats up slower than the Synchronika 2 which is factor that sways a lot of customers, but for others this isn't a priority.
This is another large machine, it is slightly smaller than the Synchronika II but not by much. The dimensions without a portafilter are W: 340 x D: 485 x H: 420 mm.
Which One is Right for You?
If you want the best espresso machine for usability and you value a fast heat-up, the ECM Synchronika II is the clear winner. It's luxurious, refined and ready to brew in record time.
If you're looking for the best machine with the best value, the Profitec Drive is your pick. Included flow control, it's powerful, versatile and built to last.
Both machines are top of the range and capable of outperforming many café setups. Pair either one with a high-quality coffee grinder, add accessories like a knock box and coffee scales and you will have a setup that rivals any professional barista's.
FAQs
Does the Profitec Drive come with a transport screw?
The machines that Profitec provide us with do NOT come with a transport screw, but Profitec have confirmed to us that some models from the US do come with a transport screw.
Why are there some water marks on my new machine when it arrives?
Every machine is tested in the factory before it is shipped so this can sometimes leave one or two water marks, but you will never find any signs of coffee grounds.
Can I use a Profitec Drive or ECM Synchronika II in a cafe?
These machines are designed for home use only.
What grinder should I pair with these machines?
Please feel free to email us for recommendations, we are even happy to do a combo deal for you. Contact us here.
Final Thoughts
Choosing between the ECM Synchronika II and the Profitec Drive feels so difficult because they are both top of their class, so we felt very fussy completing this comparison and the negatives are scarce. They are not just coffee makers, these are tools that let you practice the art of brewing at a professional level, in the comfort of your own kitchen.
For those who prize speed, refinement and immaculate fit and finish, the ECM Synchronika II stands out.
For those who want maximum control and the best value, the Profitec Drive is a smart and rewarding choice.
Whichever machine you decide to go for, you will be setting yourself up for a true barista coffee experience at home.
