Overview
The Strietman CT2 is a minimalist Dutch lever espresso machine that strips the brewing process down to its absolute essence — heat, water, pressure, and the human hand. Designed and manufactured in Amsterdam by Wouter Strietman, the CT2 is a completely manual lever machine with no pump, no boiler, and no group head in the traditional sense. Instead, a cylindrical brew chamber sits atop an integrated heating element, and water is heated directly in the brew chamber before you pull the lever to generate extraction pressure through a piston mechanism. This design eliminates every unnecessary component, resulting in a machine of striking visual simplicity — polished stainless steel cylinder on a minimal base, with a beautifully machined lever arm. The CT2 uses a standard 58mm portafilter for compatibility with quality baskets and accessories. The manual lever gives you direct, physical control over every moment of the extraction — pre-infusion pressure, ramp-up speed, peak pressure, and decline are all in your hands. There is no steam wand — the CT2 is a black coffee purist machine. The 400ml chamber produces one to two shots before refilling. Each CT2 is precision-machined from solid stainless steel in small batches. For the espresso minimalist who wants an intimate, hands-on relationship with their extraction and values engineering beauty, the CT2 is a remarkable object.
The Strietman CT2 comes equipped with pre-infusion for even extraction, pressure profiling for advanced shot manipulation, flow control for barista-level precision. It features a none boiler system made of stainless steel. The manual lever pump delivers 9.0 bars of pressure for optimal extraction.
Priced at $2,800, the Strietman CT2 is designed for dedicated prosumers who demand professional-grade equipment. As a lever machine, it offers a hands-on, tactile brewing experience that many espresso purists find deeply satisfying.
In terms of build quality, the Strietman CT2 is a substantial machine, weighing in at 7.0 kg, manufactured in Netherlands, drawing 1400W of power. With dimensions of 195 x 195 x 370 mm (W×D×H), make sure you have adequate counter space. The built-in water reservoir holds 400 ml, making it easy to set up anywhere in your kitchen.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Pre-infusion gently saturates the coffee puck before full pressure, improving extraction evenness
- Pressure profiling allows you to manipulate the extraction curve for nuanced flavor development
- Flow control gives barista-level precision over water flow rate during extraction
- Stainless steel boiler is corrosion-resistant and easy to maintain
- Standard 58mm portafilter is compatible with a wide range of third-party baskets and accessories
Cons
- No PID temperature control — requires temperature surfing for consistent results
- Premium price point at $2,800 represents a significant investment
Full Specifications
| Brand | Strietman |
|---|---|
| Model | Strietman CT2 |
| Category | Lever |
| Status | Current |
| Country of Origin | Netherlands |
| Year Introduced | 2020 |
| Boiler Type | None |
| Boiler Material | Stainless Steel |
| Pump Type | Manual Lever |
| Pump Pressure | 9.0 bar |
| PID Control | No |
| Pre-Infusion | Yes |
| Pressure Profiling | Yes |
| Flow Control | Yes |
| Group Head | 58mm |
| Portafilter Diameter | 58 mm |
| Steam Wand | None |
| Water Source | Reservoir |
| Reservoir Capacity | 400 ml |
| Cup Warmer | No |
| Dimensions (W x D x H) | 195 x 195 x 370 mm |
| Weight | 7.0 kg (15.4 lbs) |
| Wattage | 1400 W |
| Voltage | 120V/220V |
| MSRP | $2,800 |
Our Verdict
The Strietman CT2 is for espresso romantics. Lever machines provide an unmatched tactile connection to the brewing process — you control pressure directly through the lever. The result is espresso with character that many enthusiasts consider superior to pump machines. The learning curve is steeper than semi-automatics, but the reward is a meditative brewing ritual and a gorgeous machine that's as much art as appliance. Not for the impatient, but deeply satisfying for those who appreciate craftsmanship.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the Strietman CT2 designed for?
The Strietman CT2 at $2,800 is a prosumer-grade machine designed for experienced home baristas who want near-commercial quality. It's not ideal as a first machine, but it's an excellent upgrade for those ready to invest in their espresso passion.
How difficult is a lever machine like the Strietman CT2 to use?
Lever machines have a steeper learning curve than pump machines — you control extraction pressure directly through the lever. Expect 2-4 weeks to learn the technique. Once mastered, many baristas find lever machines produce exceptionally nuanced espresso.
How often does the Strietman CT2 need maintenance?
Regular maintenance includes daily backflushing (for machines with solenoid valves), weekly cleaning of the group head and portafilter, and descaling every 1-3 months depending on water hardness. Using filtered water significantly reduces scale buildup and extends machine life.
What grinder should I use with the Strietman CT2?
A prosumer machine like this deserves a premium grinder. Consider the Niche Zero ($600), Eureka Mignon XL ($700), DF64 variants, or premium options like the Weber EG-1 or Lagom P64. The grinder should match or exceed the machine's capability for best results.
Is the Strietman CT2 worth $2,800?
The Strietman CT2's value depends on your commitment to espresso. If you drink espresso daily, a quality machine pays for itself vs. cafe purchases within 6-12 months. The Strietman CT2 offers pressure profiling, flow control at its price point, making it a sound investment for regular espresso drinkers.
Recommended Grinder Pairings for the Strietman CT2
A good grinder is essential for getting the most out of your espresso machine. Here are some grinders that pair well at this price level: