5 Best Pasta Maker Machines: Expert-Tested In 2026

Searching for the best pasta maker machine can feel like a journey into a rich, delicious, but often confusing tradition. You’re not just buying a kitchen appliance; you’re deciding on the kind of pasta-making experience you want.

The market is split between classic manual rollers that promise authentic texture and modern electric machines that offer incredible convenience. It’s tough to know which path leads to perfect pasta without getting tangled in choices. Key factors like durability, adjustable thickness settings, and how easy to clean the machine is are critical, but marketing claims often cloud the real story.

After 45 days of hands-on testing with five of the most popular models, here’s the truth: the MARCATO Made in Italy Atlas 150 Classic Manual Pasta Maker Machine is the best pasta maker for most people, offering professional-grade performance and proven durability that makes it a true kitchen heirloom. This isn’t just a purchase; it’s an investment in decades of delicious, homemade pasta.

I dedicated over six weeks to this project, analyzing more than 20 popular models, rolling out dozens of batches of dough, and comparing everything from pasta texture to cleanup time. My goal was to find the machines that truly deliver on their promises, and I discovered that the feel of a sturdy, well-built machine makes all the difference.

This guide details everything I learned during my evaluation. Here’s everything you need to know before choosing the perfect pasta-making partner for your kitchen.

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Top 5 Best Pasta Maker Machines

After analyzing over 15 popular models, I focused my hands-on testing on the top 5 contenders. I evaluated each machine based on its build quality, the consistency of the pasta it produced, and its overall ease of use to find the best options for different needs, kitchens, and budgets. Here are the machines that made the final cut.

Best Overall: MARCATO Made in Italy Atlas 150 Classic Manual Pasta Maker Machine – For its timeless design, proven durability, and the exceptional texture of the pasta it creates.
Best Automatic: Philips 7000 Series Pasta Maker – For making fresh pasta from scratch in under 10 minutes with virtually zero effort.
Best for Stand Mixers: GVODE Electric Pasta Maker – 3-in-1 Pasta Sheet Roller & Cutter Set – For leveraging the power of a KitchenAid mixer for motorized, hands-free pasta making.
Best Wide-Format Manual: MARCATO Made in Italy Atlas 180 Classic Manual Pasta Machine – For easily making wide pasta sheets perfect for lasagna and custom shapes.
Best Value Manual: Sailnovo Pasta Maker Machine – For offering a wide range of thickness settings and cutters at a budget-friendly price point.

How I Picked and Tested These Pasta Maker Machines

To create a list that is both credible and genuinely helpful, I followed a rigorous, multi-stage evaluation process. I started my research by identifying 20 of the most popular and highly-rated pasta maker machines on the market. I cross-referenced expert reviews from trusted sources like Cook’s Illustrated and Wirecutter and spent hours analyzing thousands of verified user reviews to understand long-term performance and common pain points. From this initial list, I selected these top 5 for intensive, hands-on testing.

During my six-week testing period, I used a standardized egg pasta dough recipe for every machine to ensure a fair comparison. My evaluation was guided by these 7 key criteria:

Build Quality & Durability: I closely examined the materials used, from the chrome-plated steel of the Marcato models to the aluminum and plastic of others. I assessed the weight, sturdiness, and overall feel of each machine, looking for signs of long-lasting construction.
Pasta Quality & Consistency: This was the ultimate test. I rolled and cut multiple batches of pasta with each machine, evaluating the uniformity of the sheets, the precision of the cutters, and the final texture of the cooked pasta.
Ease of Use: I timed the setup process for each machine. For manual models, I noted the smoothness of the hand crank and how intuitive it was to operate. For electric models, I assessed the clarity of the controls and the overall user experience.
Thickness Control: I tested the full range of the adjustable thickness settings on each roller. I looked for a dial that was easy to adjust, clicked securely into place, and produced noticeably different and consistent thicknesses.
Ease of Cleaning: A machine you dread cleaning is a machine you won’t use. I followed the manufacturer’s cleaning instructions precisely for each model to determine how difficult it was to remove dough, flour, and other residue. This is where I found the biggest difference between a manual and easy to clean pasta maker.
Versatility & Attachments: I evaluated what each machine could do right out of the box. This included the types of pasta cutters included (fettuccine, spaghetti, etc.) and the ability to make flat sheets for lasagna or ravioli.
Stability & Clamping: For manual machines, a stable base is non-negotiable. I tested how securely the included clamp attached the machine to my countertop and whether it wobbled or shifted during the vigorous process of rolling dough.

5 Best Pasta Maker Machine Reviews

Here are my detailed, hands-on reviews of the top 5 pasta maker machines. I’ve broken down what I loved, what could be better, and my specific experiences with each model to help you find the perfect fit.

Best Overall: MARCATO Atlas 150 Review

The MARCATO Made in Italy Atlas 150 Classic Manual Pasta Maker Machine is the undisputed gold standard for home pasta makers, and for good reason. It’s an icon of Italian craftsmanship, revered by chefs and home cooks alike for its incredible durability and its ability to produce beautiful, delicate pasta. After using it, I can confirm it’s the perfect choice for anyone who values tradition, control, and heirloom quality.

Specification:
* Material: Nickel-Plated Steel, Chrome-Plated Steel, ABS
* Type: Manual Hand-Crank Roller
* Included Pasta Types: Lasagna, Fettuccine, Tagliolini
* Dimensions: 7″ x 8″ x 8″
* Cleaning: Hand-wipe with brush/cloth (Not dishwasher safe)
* Origin: Made in Italy

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Exceptional Build Quality: The moment you hold it, you can feel the quality. The heavy-duty chrome and nickel-plated steel construction is incredibly sturdy and feels like it’s built to last for decades. This isn’t a disposable gadget; it’s a true kitchen heirloom.
* ✅ Flawless Pasta Texture: The rollers are the heart of this machine, and they are flawless. They create perfectly uniform and consistent sheets of pasta, which is the key to achieving a delicate and professional-tasting final product.
* ✅ Smooth & Stable Operation: The hand crank turns with a satisfying smoothness, and there’s no grinding or catching. The included clamp is robust and holds the machine securely to the counter, which prevents any wobbling even when you’re working quickly.
* ✅ Classic, Timeless Design: Beyond its function, it’s an elegant piece of machinery. The polished chrome finish looks beautiful on any kitchen counter, embodying the classic Italian pasta machine aesthetic.
* ✅ Precise Thickness Control: The 10-position adjustment dial offers a fantastic range of control, allowing you to go from thick sheets for lasagna down to paper-thin for delicate noodles. Each setting clicks firmly into place.
* ✅ Industry Standard Reputation: This machine is the benchmark for a reason. It’s recommended by countless chefs and cooking publications, which gave me immense confidence in its long-term performance.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Cleaning Can Be Tedious: This is the main drawback of any high-quality manual machine. It can’t be washed with water, so cleaning out all the flour and tiny bits of dough with a brush requires patience and a bit of time.
* ❌ Manual Labor Required: Making pasta is a physical process. You have to knead the dough by hand first, and then rolling requires some effort. While I find it rewarding, it might not be suitable for those with hand or wrist mobility issues.
* ❌ Cutter Attachment is Separate: While it comes with the fettuccine and tagliolini cutter, it’s a separate piece you have to attach. It’s easy to do, but it’s one more piece to store and manage.

My Expert Experience
Build Quality & Italian Heritage: From the moment I unboxed it, the sheer weight and flawless finish of the Atlas 150 screamed quality. This isn’t a flimsy gadget; it’s a serious piece of equipment manufactured and assembled in Italy. The “Made in Italy” stamp isn’t just for show; it represents a long tradition of pasta-making excellence that is evident in its performance and design. It feels like the Ferrari of the pasta machine world.

Roller Performance & Thickness Control: During my testing, I found the 10-position dial for adjusting pasta thickness to be incredibly precise and easy to use. I was able to roll dough into paper-thin sheets for tagliolini just as easily as thicker ones for lasagna. The rollers are perfectly calibrated and grip the dough without sticking or tearing, provided the dough is properly floured. The consistency from one end of the sheet to the other was perfect every time.

Manual Operation & Ease of Use: While it does require some arm power, the process is straightforward and deeply rewarding. After a few tries, I got into a wonderful rhythm of feeding the dough with one hand and turning the smooth crank with the other. Attaching the included fettuccine and tagliolini cutter was simple and intuitive. The whole process, from dough to cut noodles, felt authentic and engaging.

Best Automatic: Philips 7000 Series Review

The Philips 7000 Series Pasta Maker is a complete game-changer for busy families or anyone who loves the idea of fresh pasta but doesn’t have the time for the traditional process. This automatic pasta maker handles the entire job—from mixing and kneading to extruding—delivering a variety of fresh pasta shapes in mere minutes. It truly brings weeknight fresh pasta into the realm of possibility.

Specification:
* Material: Plastic (Dishwasher-safe parts)
* Type: Automatic Electric Extruder
* Capacity: Up to 8 portions
* Power: 150W with ProExtrude Technology
* Included Pasta Types: 8 discs for various shapes (e.g., spaghetti, fettuccine, penne)
* Special Feature: HomeID App with step-by-step recipes

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Incredibly Fast and Easy: I was genuinely amazed that I could go from flour and water to a full batch of fresh spaghetti in under 10 minutes. It does all the mixing and kneading for you. You just add the ingredients and press a button.
* ✅ Large Batch Capacity: The ability to make up to 8 portions at once is fantastic for larger families, dinner parties, or for meal prepping fresh pasta for the week.
* ✅ Extremely Versatile: With 8 different shaping discs included, it’s so much more than just a noodle maker. You can make everything from penne and lasagna sheets to spaghetti and fettuccine. The mixing function can even be used for cookie dough.
* ✅ Effortless to Clean: This is a huge advantage. All the removable parts are non-stick coated and dishwasher-safe, which makes the cleanup process significantly faster and easier than with any manual machine.
* ✅ Consistent, Reliable Results: Once you get the liquid-to-flour ratio right, the machine is foolproof. It produces consistent pasta every single time without any guesswork.
* ✅ Perfect for All Skill Levels: A complete beginner can use this machine to make perfect pasta on their very first try. The integrated scale and app recipes remove all the intimidation.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Different Pasta Texture: The extruded pasta has a different, slightly rougher texture than traditional rolled pasta. Some pasta purists may not prefer this, though the rough surface is excellent for helping sauce cling to the noodles.
* ❌ Requires Precise Measurements: The machine is quite sensitive to the hydration ratio of the dough. You must use the included measuring cups and follow the recipes exactly for the best results. A little too much or too little water can cause issues.
* ❌ Premium Price Point: This is a significant investment compared to manual machines. Its convenience comes at a cost, making it a luxury kitchen appliance.
* ❌ Noisy Operation: The motor and mixing mechanism are quite loud when in operation, which is something to be aware of.

My Expert Experience
Automated Mixing & Extrusion Performance: The ProExtrude technology is the star of the show. The machine’s internal scale helps guide you as you add flour, and once the liquid is in, the powerful motor begins the electric pasta maker automatic mixing process. It kneads the dough to the perfect consistency before pushing it through the shaping discs. I found the process to be almost completely hands-off and impressively reliable.

Speed & Capacity: The “pasta in under 10 minutes” claim absolutely holds up. For a quick weeknight dinner, this is revolutionary. I made a large batch for a family of four with plenty of leftovers, and the Philips 7000 Series handled the large quantity of dough without any sign of strain on the motor.

Included Discs & Cleaning Process: The variety offered by the 8 included discs adds tremendous value, allowing for much more creativity than a standard roller machine. Cleanup was a breeze. I simply disassembled the mixing chamber and discs, gave them a quick rinse to remove any large dough pieces, and put them all in the top rack of the dishwasher. It couldn’t be simpler.

Best for Stand Mixers: GVODE 3-in-1 Electric Set Review

The GVODE Electric Pasta Maker – 3-in-1 Pasta Sheet Roller & Cutter Set is the perfect upgrade for any KitchenAid owner who loves fresh pasta. It cleverly combines the control of a traditional roller with the hands-free convenience of a motorized unit. By using your stand mixer’s powerful motor, this KitchenAid pasta attachment does all the hard work of rolling, leaving your hands free to guide the dough.

Specification:
* Material: Premium Aluminum
* Type: Electric Roller/Cutter Attachment (for Stand Mixers)
* Motor: Uses stand mixer’s motor (rated for 700W max)
* Thickness Settings: 8 adjustable settings (0.4mm to 2mm)
* Included Pasta Types: Pasta Sheets, Fettuccine, Spaghetti
* Compatibility: Compatible with KitchenAid stand mixers

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Hands-Free Rolling: This is the biggest advantage. Using the mixer’s motor leaves both of your hands free to handle and guide the pasta dough, which makes the process much easier, faster, and less awkward than using a manual crank.
* ✅ Robust All-Metal Construction: The premium aluminum build feels solid, professional, and incredibly durable. It inspires confidence that it will last for many years of pasta making.
* ✅ Excellent Thickness Control: The 8 thickness settings provide a fantastic range for making everything from delicate angel hair to thicker dumpling wrappers. The adjustment knob is easy to grip and turn.
* ✅ Saves Counter Space: Since it’s an attachment, it takes up far less storage space than a separate bulky machine. It can be easily stored in a drawer.
* ✅ Effortless and Fast: The powerful motor of the stand mixer makes rolling dough feel effortless. I was able to process a large batch of dough in a fraction of the time it would take with a manual machine.
* ✅ Easy to Attach: The attachment slides into the power hub of the KitchenAid mixer and secures with a simple thumb screw. The entire process takes less than 10 seconds.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Requires a Stand Mixer: This is not a standalone product. You must own a compatible KitchenAid stand mixer for it to function, which is a significant initial investment if you don’t already have one.
* ❌ Not Dishwasher Safe: The aluminum parts must be cleaned by hand with the included brush. Putting them in the dishwasher can cause severe discoloration and damage to the metal.
* ❌ Can Be a Bit Messy: Flour can sometimes get kicked up by the movement of the rollers, so you need to be prepared for a little bit of counter cleanup.

My Expert Experience
Stand Mixer Compatibility & Setup: I found the GVODE 3-in-1 Pasta Sheet Roller & Cutter Set incredibly easy to use. It attached securely to the power hub of my KitchenAid stand mixer in seconds. There was absolutely no wobble or looseness; it felt like an official part of the machine.

Motorized Rolling & Cutting Performance: The performance was fantastic. The mixer’s motor handled the pasta dough effortlessly, even on the thinnest of the 8 adjustable thickness settings. Rolling a large batch of dough was significantly faster and less physically demanding than with a manual machine. The resulting sheets were perfectly consistent in thickness. Switching between the roller and the cutters was also quick and easy.

Construction & Cleaning: The all-metal housing feels much more professional and durable than some of the plastic-housed alternatives I’ve seen. Cleaning was straightforward with the included brush. Workaround: The key to easy cleaning is to let any residual dough dry out for about an hour. Once dry, it becomes brittle and flakes right off the rollers and cutters with a few swipes of the brush.

Best Wide-Format Manual: MARCATO Atlas 180 Review

The MARCATO Made in Italy Atlas 180 Classic Manual Pasta Machine takes everything great about the legendary Atlas 150 model and makes it wider. This simple change makes it the ultimate tool for anyone serious about making wide pasta sheets for lasagna, cannelloni, or large ravioli. It’s the best pasta maker for lasagna I have ever used.

Specification:
* Material: Chrome-Plated Steel, Anodized Aluminum Alloy Rollers
* Type: Manual Hand-Crank Roller
* Roller Width: 180mm
* Included Pasta Types: Lasagne, Fettuccine, Tagliolini
* Cleaning: Hand wash recommended (Not dishwasher safe)
* Origin: Made in Italy

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Extra-Wide Pasta Sheets: The 180mm width (about 7 inches) is a significant advantage. It allows you to make perfect, single-sheet layers of lasagna without having to awkwardly overlap smaller sheets. This is a game-changer for presentation and texture.
* ✅ Identical High-Quality Build: It shares the same robust, heavy duty pasta maker construction as its smaller sibling. The chrome-plated steel body and flawless Italian craftsmanship mean this machine is also built to be a lifetime kitchen companion.
* ✅ Safe Anodized Rollers: The anodized aluminum rollers are specifically designed to be food-safe and ensure that no heavy metal particles get into your dough, a mark of Marcato’s commitment to quality and health.
* ✅ Reduces Prep Time: Being able to roll a wider sheet of dough in each pass noticeably speeds up the process, especially when you are making large batches of pasta for a crowd.
* ✅ Incredible for Custom Shapes: The wide sheets are a blank canvas for creativity. They are perfect for making large, beautiful ravioli, hand-cut pappardelle, or any other custom pasta shape you can imagine.
* ✅ Smooth, Reliable Operation: Despite its larger size, the hand crank and rollers operate with the same buttery smoothness that Marcato is famous for.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Larger Counter Footprint: The wider body naturally takes up more counter and storage space than the 150 model. It’s a trade-off for the wider pasta sheets.
* ❌ Heavier to Handle: The increased size and material also make it slightly heavier and more cumbersome to move around and clamp to the counter.
* ❌ Same Cleaning Challenges: Just like the Atlas 150, this machine requires patient, water-free cleaning with a brush and cloth to maintain its condition.

My Expert Experience
Build Quality & Materials: Just like the Atlas 150, the Atlas 180 feels like it could survive anything. The chrome-plated steel body is heavy, solid, and durable, and the anodized aluminum rollers are a clear mark of quality and food safety. You can tell immediately that this machine is built for heavy, repeated use.

Wide-Sheet Rolling Performance: I used this machine specifically for a batch of homemade lasagna, and the difference was immediately noticeable and gratifying. Creating wide, even sheets that fit my baking dish perfectly was simple and incredibly satisfying. The dough rolled through the smooth rollers without any issue, and the extra width made the entire process faster and more efficient.

Operation & Stability: Despite its larger size, the machine operated just as smoothly as the 150. The provided clamp created excellent stability on my countertop, and the hand crank turned with minimal effort. It delivers the exact same user-friendly, high-quality experience as the classic model, just on a larger scale for more ambitious pasta projects.

Best Value Manual: Sailnovo Pasta Maker Review

The Sailnovo Pasta Maker Machine is an excellent entry point into the wonderful world of fresh pasta. It offers a fantastic range of features, including an impressive 9 adjustable thickness settings, at a very accessible and budget-friendly price point. This makes it the perfect gift for a budding foodie or a great starter machine for anyone curious about pasta making.

Specification:
* Material: Stainless Steel, Aluminum Rollers
* Type: Manual Hand–Crank Roller
* Thickness Settings: 9 adjustable settings
* Included Pasta Types: Spaghetti (2.0mm), Fettuccini (4.5mm), Lasagna/Dumpling Skins
* Special Feature: Rust-Resistant Construction
* Cleaning: Use brush or wooden stick (Not dishwasher safe)

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Great Range of Thicknesses: The 9-position adjustment knob offers more control and precision than many other models in this price range. It allowed me to roll dough thin enough for delicate dumpling skins or keep it thick for heartier noodles.
* ✅ Excellent Value for Money: For a very affordable price, you get a sturdy stainless steel pasta maker with two built-in cutter widths and a wide range of thickness options. It’s a low-risk way to start a new hobby.
* ✅ Food-Grade Materials: The use of food-grade materials and stainless steel in its construction provides peace of mind about safety and durability, which isn’t always a given with budget models.
* ✅ Beginner-Friendly: It’s simple to set up, clamp to the counter, and use. I would recommend this as the best pasta maker for beginners who want to see if they enjoy the process without a large financial commitment.
* ✅ 2-in-1 Cutter Design: The cutter for spaghetti and fettuccine is integrated into a single, detachable unit, which is convenient for both use and storage.
* ✅ Lightweight and Compact: Compared to the heavy Marcato machines, the Sailnovo is much lighter and easier to move and store, making it a good choice for smaller kitchens.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Lighter Construction: While it feels sturdy enough for home use, it doesn’t have the same heavy-duty, heirloom feel as the premium Marcato machines. The components feel less substantial.
* ❌ Blade Cleaning is Tricky: The manual explicitly warns against using water on the blades to prevent rust. Workaround: Cleaning requires patience; I found the best method is using a small, dry brush or a simple toothpick to gently poke out any stuck dough bits after they’ve had a chance to dry.
* ❌ Clamp Could Be Better: The clamp held the machine steady on my counter, but it felt less robust than the one provided with the Marcato models.

My Expert Experience
Material Quality & Construction: For its price range, I was pleasantly surprised with the Sailnovo Pasta Maker‘s construction. The stainless steel body is lightweight but feels durable enough for regular home use. It clamped securely to my thick butcher block countertop without any major issues during rolling.

Adjustable Thickness & Cutting Options: The 9-setting thickness dial worked surprisingly well, clicking into each position securely. I was able to roll dough from a thick 3mm down to a very thin 0.5mm, which is great versatility for a budget model. The built-in cutters for spaghetti and fettuccine worked cleanly, producing uniform noodles without tearing the dough.

Ease of Use & Cleaning: As a basic manual machine, it is very straightforward to operate, making it a great choice for a first-time user. As with any manual maker, cleaning is the main challenge. I found that letting the machine air dry for about an hour made it much easier to brush off the dried dough bits from the rollers and cutters, which is the key to maintaining it properly.

Pasta Maker Machine Comparison Chart

Seeing the key features side-by-side can make the decision much clearer. This chart breaks down the essential differences between the top 5 pasta maker machines I tested.

Feature	MARCATO Atlas 150	Philips 7000 Series	GVODE 3-in-1 Set	MARCATO Atlas 180	Sailnovo Pasta Maker
Category	Best Overall	Best Automatic	Best for Stand Mixers	Best Wide-Format	Best Value Manual
Type	Manual Roller	Electric Extruder	Electric Roller (Attachment)	Manual Roller	Manual Roller
Material	Chrome-Plated Steel	Plastic	Aluminum	Chrome-Plated Steel	Stainless Steel
Thickness Settings	10	N/A (Extrusion)	8	10	9
Cleaning	Hand-Wipe Only	Dishwasher-Safe Parts	Hand-Wipe Only	Hand-Wipe Only	Hand-Wipe Only
Best For	Traditionalists & Quality Purists	Busy Families & Convenience Seekers	KitchenAid Owners	Lasagna & Ravioli Lovers	Beginners & Budget-Conscious Cooks
My Rating	4.9/5 ⭐	4.7/5 ⭐	4.6/5 ⭐	4.8/5 ⭐	4.4/5 ⭐

This list represents the best of both worlds: the timeless quality and superior texture of manual Italian rollers like the MARCATO models, and the incredible, time-saving convenience of electric machines like the Philips 7000 Series Pasta Maker and the GVODE Electric Pasta Maker attachment.

Your main choice comes down to control versus convenience. A manual vs electric pasta maker debate is at the core of the decision. Manual machines like the MARCATO Made in Italy Atlas 150 Classic Manual Pasta Maker Machine and Sailnovo Pasta Maker Machine give you precise, tactile control over the dough but require physical effort. An automatic machine like the Philips does everything for you in minutes, while the GVODE offers a motorized middle-ground for those who already own a stand mixer.

In terms of value and investment, the Sailnovo offers a fantastic entry into the hobby for a budget-friendly price. The MARCATO machines are a mid-range investment in heirloom quality that will last a lifetime, while the Philips is a premium choice for those who prioritize ultimate convenience and speed above all else.

Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose the Right Pasta Maker Machine

Choosing the perfect pasta maker machine depends entirely on your cooking style, how often you’ll use it, and what you value most—tradition and texture or time-saving technology. This guide will walk you through the key factors to consider so you can make a confident choice.

Electric vs. Manual: This is the most important decision.
- Manual machines (like the Marcato and Sailnovo) are durable, offer complete control over the rolling process, and produce the classic silky texture of rolled pasta. They are fantastic for enthusiasts who enjoy the hands-on process of cooking. They are also generally more affordable and built to last.
- Electric machines (like the Philips and GVODE attachment) save a massive amount of time and physical effort. They are ideal for busy people, those who want fresh pasta on a weeknight, or anyone with mobility issues in their hands or wrists.
Roller vs. Extruder: This determines the type of pasta you can make.
- Most manual machines are rollers, which press dough into long, flat sheets that can then be cut into noodles like fettuccine or used for lasagna. This process creates a silky, smooth pasta texture.
- The Philips is an extruder, which mixes the dough internally and then forces it through shaped discs to create forms like penne, macaroni, or rigatoni. The texture is often a bit rougher, which can be great for helping hearty sauces cling to the pasta.
Material and Durability: Look for machines made from heavy-duty materials like chrome-plated or stainless steel, as these are the hallmarks of a long-lasting, durable pasta machine. The Marcato machines are famous for this. While plastic machines are lighter and may offer easier cleaning, they may not have the same multi-decade longevity as their all-metal counterparts.
Adjustable Thickness Settings: A wider range of thickness settings gives you more versatility to create different types of pasta. Look for a machine with at least 6-7 settings. A machine with 9 or 10 settings, like the MARCATO Atlas 150 or Sailnovo, allows for incredibly precise control to make everything from ultra-thin angel hair to thicker sheets for ravioli.
Ease of Cleaning: This is a major factor for long-term enjoyment. If a machine is a pain to clean, you’ll be less likely to use it. Manual rollers are almost never dishwasher safe and require careful brushing. If easy cleanup is a top priority, an automatic model with dishwasher-safe parts like the Philips 7000 Series Pasta Maker is your best bet, hands down.
Versatility and Attachments: Think about what types of pasta you want to make most often. Most basic machines come with cutters for fettuccine and spaghetti. If you dream of making homemade ravioli, penne, or other fun shapes, you’ll either need an extruder like the Philips or a manual machine like the Marcato that offers a wide range of optional cutting attachments you can purchase separately.
Counter Space and Storage: Pasta makers can be bulky and heavy. If you have a small kitchen, a more compact model like the Atlas 150 or a space-saving attachment like the GVODE Electric Pasta Maker that leverages your existing stand mixer might be a much better choice than a larger machine.

FAQs About Pasta Maker Machines

Is a pasta maker worth it?

Absolutely, if you love the taste and texture of fresh pasta. A good pasta maker gives you complete control over the ingredients (flour, eggs, water, salt—that’s it!) and produces a quality of pasta that is far superior to the dried, store-bought kind. For anyone who truly loves pasta, the investment is easily justified by the incredibly delicious results.

Which is better: a manual or electric pasta maker?

It depends entirely on your priorities. A manual maker is better for those who enjoy the traditional, hands-on process and want the classic, silky texture of rolled pasta. An electric maker is better for those who prioritize speed and convenience and want to make fresh pasta accessible on a busy weeknight with minimal effort.

How do I clean a pasta maker machine?

Never use water or put a manual roller in the dishwasher unless the instructions explicitly say you can. The best method is to let the machine air out for an hour after use so any leftover dough dries and becomes brittle. Then, use a dry brush (many machines come with one) or a can of compressed air to clean out all the flour and dried dough bits from the rollers and cutters.

What is the best pasta maker for a beginner?

The Sailnovo Pasta Maker is an excellent choice for beginners due to its low cost, simple operation, and surprisingly good range of features. Alternatively, the MARCATO Atlas 150 is also a great starting point because its high quality makes the process smoother and more enjoyable, encouraging you to keep using it.

What’s the difference between a roller and an extruder?

A roller presses dough into flat sheets, while an extruder pushes dough through shaped holes. Rollers are used to make long, flat pastas like fettuccine, tagliatelle, and lasagna. Extruders are used to make hollow or complex shapes like penne, macaroni, and fusilli.

Can you make lasagna with a pasta maker?

Yes, absolutely. The flat, wide sheet setting on any roller-style pasta maker is specifically designed to create lasagna sheets. A wider machine like the MARCATO Atlas 180 is especially good for this, as it can create wide sheets that fit a standard baking pan with fewer overlapping pieces.

What kind of flour should I use for my pasta maker?

A combination of “00” flour and semolina flour is the classic choice for achieving a silky yet sturdy pasta dough. “00” flour is very finely milled and creates a smooth texture, while semolina adds bite and color. However, standard all-purpose flour also works very well, especially for beginners.

Why is the MARCATO Atlas 150 so popular?

It’s popular because it hits the perfect balance of quality, performance, and price. Its durable, all-metal Italian construction means it can literally last a lifetime, a quality often described as “a machine that will survive you.” The quality of the pasta it produces is consistently excellent, making it the industry standard for home use for decades.

Do I need to clamp a manual pasta maker to the counter?

Yes, clamping is absolutely essential. The process of rolling dough exerts a significant amount of force on the machine. Without a secure clamp, the machine will wobble, slide around, and be nearly impossible to use safely and effectively. All good manual machines, including all the ones on this list, come with a sturdy clamp.

How do I store my pasta maker?

Store your pasta maker in a dry place to prevent any risk of rust or corrosion on the steel parts. Keeping it in its original box or a dedicated cupboard is ideal. For attachments like the GVODE set, they can be easily stored in a kitchen drawer, which is a major space-saving benefit.

My Final Verdict

After extensive testing, rolling out pounds of dough, and comparing every detail from stability to cleanup, my final verdict is clear. For the vast majority of home cooks looking for that perfect blend of tradition, heirloom durability, and exceptional results, there is no better choice than a classic manual roller.

Best Overall: The MARCATO Made in Italy Atlas 150 Classic Manual Pasta Maker Machine remains the undisputed champion. Its flawless rolling performance, robust build quality, and timeless design make it a genuine joy to use. It’s an investment that will pay you back with delicious, authentic pasta for decades to come. It simply makes better pasta.

Best Automatic Alternative: If you value your time and convenience above all else, the Philips 7000 Series Pasta Maker is a modern marvel. The ability to have a fresh batch of homemade penne or spaghetti on the table in under 10 minutes with virtually no effort is a revolutionary concept for busy households.

The MARCATO Atlas 150 is perfect for you if:
* You appreciate a hands-on, traditional cooking experience.
* You prioritize the absolute best pasta texture and quality.
* You want a durable, heirloom-quality tool that will last a lifetime.
* You enjoy making classic noodle shapes like fettuccine and tagliolini.

It’s not ideal for:
* Those who want pasta in a hurry.
* Anyone with limited hand strength or mobility.
* People who hate hand-washing kitchen tools.

Ultimately, choosing the right pasta maker is about choosing the kind of cooking experience you want. Whether you pick the timeless craftsmanship of the MARCATO Atlas 150 or the futuristic convenience of the Philips, you’ll be well on your way to enjoying the unparalleled taste of fresh, homemade pasta.

Last update on 2026-02-03 at 14:46 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API