For a stainless-steel hand-crank pasta maker that balances familiar operation and useful versatility, I rank the Marcato Atlas 150 Manual Pasta Maker as the best overall choice. The Marcato Atlas 180 stands out for wider sheets, while the Imperia is a strong alternative for shoppers who value its wood handle and included cleaning brush. The main tradeoff is between the compact 150 format and the wider 180 models, with the Ampia versions offering a different, more streamlined setup from the Atlas machines. Read on for how these six options differ and which one best fits your kitchen and pasta-making plans.
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Key Takeaways
- The Atlas 150 is the most balanced pick in this lineup, combining a familiar format with a clear path to different pasta shapes.
- The 180 models suit wider-sheet needs, but their larger working width may be unnecessary if you usually make small batches.
- Ampia and Atlas are not interchangeable choices: compare their included cutting setup and intended workflow before choosing by brand alone.
- The red Atlas 150 listing adds a distinct finish and included cutter, while the standard Atlas 150 is the straightforward choice for shoppers prioritizing the classic format.
- Imperia differentiates itself through its wood handle and cleaning brush; buyers should weigh those practical details against the Marcato models’ range of widths and styles.
| Marcato Atlas 150 Manual Pasta Maker Machine – Made in Italy |  | Best Overall | Materials: Nickel-plated steel, chrome-plated steel, ABS | Maximum sheet width: 150 mm (6 inches) | Thickness settings: 10 | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Marcato Atlas 150 Pasta Machine, Made in Italy, Red, Includes Pasta Cutter, Hand Crank, and Instructions |  | Best for Beginners | Brand: Marcato | Model number: AT-150-RSO | Construction: Anodized aluminum | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| MARCATO Made in Italy Ampia 150 Classic Manual Pasta Machine, Chrome Steel |  | Best for Classic Pasta Shapes | Made in: Italy | Maximum pasta width: 150 mm (6 inches) | Pasta shapes: Lasagne, fettuccine, tagliolini | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Marcato Made in Italy Ampia 180 Classic Manual Pasta Machine, Chrome Steel |  | Best for Wider Pasta Sheets | Made in: Italy | Maximum pasta width: 180 mm (7 inches) | Pasta shapes: Lasagne, fettuccine, tagliolini | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Marcato Made in Italy Atlas 180 Classic Manual Pasta Machine, Chrome Steel |  | Best for Accessory Flexibility | Materials: Chrome-plated steel, anodized aluminum | Maximum sheet width: 180 mm (7 inches) | Weight: 3.16 kg | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Imperia Pasta Maker Machine – Made in Italy, Heavy Duty Steel, Easy Lock Dial, Wood Handle, Includes Cleaning Brush |  | Best for Heavy-Duty Steel Construction | Material: Chromed steel | Maximum pasta width: 150 mm | Pasta shapes: Fettuccine, tagliolini, lasagna | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Hand Crank Pasta Maker Stainless Steel | Operation | Weight | Maximum pasta width | Pasta shapes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Marcato Atlas 150 Manual Pasta | Manual | 2.6 kg | — | — |
| Marcato Atlas 150 Pasta Machin | — | — | — | — |
| MARCATO Made in Italy Ampia 15 | Manual; optional motor available | — | 150 mm (6 inches) | Lasagne, fettuccine, tagliolini |
| Marcato Made in Italy Ampia 18 | — | — | 180 mm (7 inches) | Lasagne, fettuccine, tagliolini |
| Marcato Made in Italy Atlas 18 | Manual | 3.16 kg | — | — |
| Imperia Pasta Maker Machine | — | 3.66 kg | 150 mm | Fettuccine, tagliolini, lasagna |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Marcato Atlas 150 Manual Pasta Maker Machine – Made in Italy
The Atlas 150 is my best all-around pick for cooks who want a traditional hand-crank machine with room to adjust. Its 10 thickness settings cover sheets from 0.8 to 4.8 millimeters, while the 150 mm width suits familiar home pasta shapes such as lasagna, fettuccine, and tagliolini. Compared with the Ampia 150, this Atlas is described with available accessories for additional shapes, making it the more adaptable choice if your pasta projects may expand. Its chrome-plated steel construction gives it a sturdy, traditional feel, though the listed materials also include ABS. The tradeoff is hands-on upkeep: it is not dishwasher safe, and manual cranking can become tiring during long sessions. I would choose it for regular small-batch cooking, not high-volume production.
Pros:- Ten thickness settings span 0.8 to 4.8 mm for varied sheet thicknesses.
- 150 mm sheet width suits common home pasta preparations.
- Chrome-plated steel construction offers a sturdy manual-machine design.
- Available accessories can extend the range of pasta shapes.
Cons:- Requires hand cleaning and is not dishwasher safe.
- Manual cranking can tire the user during extended pasta sessions.
- Motor support is not included.
Best for: Home cooks who want adjustable sheet thickness and a familiar 150 mm format for regular small-batch pasta making.
Not ideal for: Cooks who make large batches often or want dishwasher-safe parts or powered operation included.
- Materials:Nickel-plated steel, chrome-plated steel, ABS
- Maximum sheet width:150 mm (6 inches)
- Thickness settings:10
- Sheet thickness range:0.8–4.8 mm
- Operation:Manual
- Weight:2.6 kg
- Dimensions:8 × 8 × 7 inches
Our verdict“Choose this Atlas 150 if you want a versatile, adjustable manual machine for small batches and do not mind hand cleaning and cranking.”
Marcato Atlas 150 Pasta Machine, Made in Italy, Red, Includes Pasta Cutter, Hand Crank, and Instructions
This red Atlas 150 is the clearest starter choice in this group because the listed package includes a hand crank, pasta cutter, and instructions. That gives a first-time pasta maker a more direct setup than the chrome Atlas 150 listing, whose shape range relies on available accessories. Its anodized aluminum construction also sets it apart from the chrome-steel emphasis of the Ampia 180; the main buying difference here is the included cutting tool and starter guidance, not a wider sheet. The product data does not state its thickness range or number of settings, so I would not pick it over the more clearly specified 10-setting models if precise thickness control is your priority. Like the others, it still depends on hand cranking and suits pasta dough rather than general-purpose dough work.
Pros:- Includes a pasta cutter and hand crank.
- Instructions are included for getting started.
- Anodized aluminum construction distinguishes it from the chrome-steel models.
- Can be cleaned with a dry cloth.
Cons:- Manual cranking may take effort during extended use.
- The supplied data does not specify the thickness range or setting count.
- Intended for pasta dough rather than other dough types.
Best for: First-time pasta makers who want a hand crank, cutter, and instructions included with a compact 150-format machine.
Not ideal for: Buyers who need documented thickness settings, a wider sheet than 150 mm, or powered operation for frequent long sessions.
- Brand:Marcato
- Model number:AT-150-RSO
- Construction:Anodized aluminum
- Included components:Instruction manual, hand crank
- Pasta cutter:Included
- Cleaning:Dry cloth
- Warranty:10 years
Our verdict“Pick this red Atlas 150 for a straightforward starter package, but choose a 10-setting model if thickness specifications matter more.”
MARCATO Made in Italy Ampia 150 Classic Manual Pasta Machine, Chrome Steel
The Ampia 150 makes sense for cooks who want a defined set of classic cuts without relying on a broader accessory ecosystem. It rolls sheets up to 150 mm wide and is specified for lasagne, fettuccine, and tagliolini, with 10 adjustment positions for thickness changes. Compared with the red Atlas 150, this model gives more explicit detail about its shape options and adjustment range; the red Atlas, by contrast, lists a cutter and instructions in the package. Resin scrapers help clear dough from the rollers, a useful distinction from models whose cleaning details are less specific. The tradeoff is a narrow role: it is designed around three shapes, and the supplied data points to small batches and manual cranking unless an optional motor is added. I would skip it for wide sheets or varied specialty cuts.
Pros:- Ten adjustment positions provide thickness control.
- Specified for three familiar pasta shapes.
- Resin scrapers help with routine roller cleaning.
- Made and assembled in Italy according to the product description.
Cons:- The 150 mm sheet width is narrower than the Ampia 180 and Atlas 180.
- Manual cranking can be tiring for larger batches.
- A motor is optional rather than included.
Best for: Traditional pasta cooks who mainly make lasagne sheets, fettuccine, and tagliolini in small batches.
Not ideal for: Cooks who want a wider 180 mm sheet, a broad range of shapes, or motor assistance included.
- Made in:Italy
- Maximum pasta width:150 mm (6 inches)
- Pasta shapes:Lasagne, fettuccine, tagliolini
- Adjustment positions:10
- Construction:Chrome steel
- Cleaning aid:Built-in resin scrapers
- Operation:Manual; optional motor available
Our verdict“Choose the Ampia 150 if classic shapes and stated thickness adjustment matter more to you than wider sheets or extra versatility.”
Marcato Made in Italy Ampia 180 Classic Manual Pasta Machine, Chrome Steel
The Ampia 180 is the better fit when sheet width matters more than a compact footprint. Its 180 mm (7-inch) capacity gives more room across each sheet than the Ampia 150, which tops out at 150 mm; that can make wider pasta sheets easier to portion for larger pieces. The machine retains 10 thickness positions and the familiar lasagne, fettuccine, and tagliolini range, so the extra width does not bring a broader set of shapes. Compared with the Atlas 180, the Ampia listing specifically calls out resin scrapers and cleaning with a dry brush, while both offer a 180 mm working width and motor compatibility. The main compromise is that motor assistance costs extra, and the hand crank may be tiring in longer sessions.
Pros:- 180 mm sheet width exceeds the 150 mm Ampia 150.
- Ten positions allow thickness adjustment.
- Compatible with a motor attachment.
- Resin scrapers and a dry brush support manual cleaning.
Cons:- Motor attachment must be purchased separately.
- Manual cranking may be tiring during extended use.
- Pasta shapes are limited to the listed classic options.
Best for: Home cooks who regularly roll wider pasta sheets and want motor compatibility as a future option.
Not ideal for: Cooks with limited counter space, those who rarely need wide sheets, or buyers who expect a motor in the box.
- Made in:Italy
- Maximum pasta width:180 mm (7 inches)
- Pasta shapes:Lasagne, fettuccine, tagliolini
- Adjustment positions:10
- Material:Chrome steel
- Motor compatibility:Compatible with a separate motor attachment
- Cleaning:Resin scrapers and dry brush
Our verdict“Choose the Ampia 180 over the Ampia 150 if you need wider sheets and accept manual operation or a separate motor purchase.”
Marcato Made in Italy Atlas 180 Classic Manual Pasta Machine, Chrome Steel
The Atlas 180 Classic pairs a wide 180 mm sheet with a manual format, making it a strong choice for cooks who want more room than the Atlas 150 offers. Its listed construction combines chrome-plated steel and anodized aluminum, and it is compatible with an optional motor for cooks who may want help with cranking later. The product data also lists eight discs and ten settings, pointing to more built-in cutting options than the Ampia 180’s specified three shapes. One caution: the supplied thickness figures are given as “7 inches” and “18 centimeters,” which do not form a credible thickness range, so I would not use them to judge sheet control. This machine is also manual, requires hand cleaning, and still limits its shapes unless accessories are added.
Pros:- 180 mm maximum sheet width offers more room than the Atlas 150.
- Eight discs are listed in the product data.
- Ten settings provide adjustment positions.
- Compatible with an optional motor attachment.
Cons:- The supplied minimum and maximum thickness figures are inconsistent and should not guide a purchase.
- Not dishwasher safe and requires hand cleaning.
- Motor assistance is optional, and manual cranking can tire the user.
Best for: Pasta makers who want a 180 mm sheet, multiple listed discs, and the option to add motor assistance later.
Not ideal for: Buyers who need reliable stated thickness measurements, dishwasher-safe cleanup, or powered operation included.
- Materials:Chrome-plated steel, anodized aluminum
- Maximum sheet width:180 mm (7 inches)
- Weight:3.16 kg
- Dimensions:9 × 7.5 × 6 inches
- Operation:Manual
- Discs:8
- Settings:10
- Motor compatibility:Optional motor accessories supported
Our verdict“Choose the Atlas 180 if you want a wide manual machine with listed discs and optional motor compatibility, but verify thickness details before buying.”
Imperia Pasta Maker Machine – Made in Italy, Heavy Duty Steel, Easy Lock Dial, Wood Handle, Includes Cleaning Brush
The Imperia Pasta Maker suits buyers who put a sturdy steel build ahead of easy portability. Its chromed-steel construction and 0.5–5 mm thickness adjustment give you control over sheets for lasagna and cuts such as fettuccine and tagliolini. Compared with the Marcato Atlas 150, this model’s case for the list centers on its included cotton pouch and cleaning brush, plus compatibility with an electric motor attachment if you want to reduce hand-cranking later.
The tradeoff is weight: at 3.66 kg, it is less convenient to move or store than a lighter manual setup. Hand operation can also tire your arm during long batches, and the listed pasta shapes do not cover every format without extra accessories. I’d choose it for a fixed kitchen workspace, not for someone seeking the lightest or most shape-flexible machine straight from the box.
Pros:- Chromed-steel construction offers a sturdy manual machine for regular home pasta making.
- Thickness adjusts from 0.5 mm to 5 mm for varied sheet styles.
- Includes a cleaning brush and cotton storage pouch.
- Compatible with an electric motor attachment for less hand-cranking.
Cons:- At 3.66 kg, it is relatively heavy to carry or put away after each use.
- Manual cranking can become tiring during extended pasta sessions.
- Pasta options are limited to the listed shapes unless additional accessories are added.
Best for: Home cooks who want a substantial chromed-steel machine, adjustable sheet thickness, and the option to add an electric motor attachment.
Not ideal for: Cooks who need a lightweight machine for frequent storage or want many pasta shapes without buying additional accessories.
- Material:Chromed steel
- Maximum pasta width:150 mm
- Pasta shapes:Fettuccine, tagliolini, lasagna
- Adjustable thickness:0.5 mm to 5 mm
- Weight:3.66 kg
- Color:Chrome
- Included components:Pasta machine, cotton pouch, crank handle, cleaning brush, non-slip base, support, manual
- Motor compatibility:Compatible with an electric motor attachment
Our verdict“Choose the Imperia if you want a sturdy chromed-steel pasta maker with adjustable thickness and motor compatibility, and can accommodate its weight.”
How We Picked
I compared these machines on the factors that shape everyday pasta making: stainless-steel construction, available sheet width, included cutting components, hand-crank usability, and the effort required to clean and store the machine. I also considered whether each model makes sense for a new pasta maker or for someone who already knows the shapes and batch sizes they want to prepare.
The ranking favors useful versatility and a clear fit for common home kitchens, not the largest dimensions or longest accessory list. The Atlas 150 leads as the most balanced starting point; the Atlas 180 models rank higher for buyers who specifically want wider sheets, while the Ampia models offer alternatives within the same brand family. Imperia earns a distinct place for its included brush and wood handle, though those features do not automatically make it the best match for every workflow.
| Hand Crank Pasta Maker Stainless Steel | Operation | Pasta shapes | Motor compatibility |
|---|---|---|---|
| Marcato Atlas 150 Manual Pasta | Manual | — | — |
| Marcato Atlas 150 Pasta Machin | — | — | — |
| MARCATO Made in Italy Ampia 15 | Manual; optional motor available | Lasagne, fettuccine, tagliolini | — |
| Marcato Made in Italy Ampia 18 | — | Lasagne, fettuccine, tagliolini | Compatible with a separate motor attachment |
| Marcato Made in Italy Atlas 18 | Manual | — | Optional motor accessories supported |
| Imperia Pasta Maker Machine | — | Fettuccine, tagliolini, lasagna | Compatible with an electric motor attachment |
Factors to Consider When Choosing Best Hand Crank Pasta Maker Stainless Steel
Before choosing, I would match the machine to how you plan to make pasta, rather than treating stainless steel as the only deciding factor. Width, cutting options, counter setup, and cleaning habits can affect your experience more than small differences in appearance.
Choose Sheet Width Around Your Usual Batch
A wider machine can produce broader sheets, which may suit larger filled pasta or recipes that call for wide strips. That does not make a 180 model a default upgrade: wider dough can take more counter space and may be awkward if you usually prepare modest portions. Think about the dishes you actually make and the size of your rolling surface before paying for extra width. A 150 model is a practical fit for many everyday batches, while wider sheets are useful when your recipes call for them regularly. Avoid choosing by maximum width alone; a machine that fits your kitchen and routine is more likely to get used.
Check What the Cutter Setup Includes
Manual pasta machines can differ in how their rollers and cutters are arranged, so confirm which shapes the included setup can make before buying. A basic sheet roller may be enough if you mainly want lasagna sheets or intend to cut dough by hand. If you expect to make multiple noodle shapes, an included cutter can save extra steps and reduce the need to shop for separate parts. Do not assume that two machines from one brand share the same included equipment. Compare the exact product listing and model name, especially when color or package wording differs.
Prioritize a Stable Counter Setup
Cranking pasta dough is easier when the machine stays firmly in place, so check the clamping arrangement and whether your counter edge can accommodate it. A sturdy machine still needs a suitable surface; thick lips, rounded edges, or limited clearance can complicate setup. Leave room for a tray or clean surface where rolled sheets can rest without sticking together. Also consider who will crank and feed the dough: solo use can be manageable, but a second person may help when handling long sheets. Sorting out counter fit before purchase prevents a good machine from becoming cumbersome to use.
Set Realistic Cleaning Expectations
Manual pasta machines generally call for dry cleaning rather than rinsing, since water can be difficult to remove from rollers and internal parts. Let dough residue dry, then remove it with an appropriate brush or cloth, following the maker’s care instructions. A supplied cleaning brush is a useful convenience, but it does not mean the machine is dishwasher-safe or maintenance-free. Sticky dough and fresh egg residue are easier to handle when you clean promptly and avoid forcing scraps into narrow gaps. If low-effort cleanup is your priority, include this routine in your decision rather than focusing only on rolling performance.
Pay for Features You Will Use
More width, a particular finish, or added accessories can make a machine a better fit, but only when those details serve your cooking habits. A beginner may get more value from a straightforward 150 setup than from a wider format with capacity they rarely need. Frequent pasta makers may appreciate a broader working surface or a cutter arrangement that reduces repetitive handwork. Compare the included components and care needs, not just the model family name. The best spend is the one that supports the pasta you plan to make most often, without adding unused bulk or parts.
Plan for Storage and Dough Handling
These machines need a dry place between uses, and the crank or clamp may need to be removed or stored separately. Measure shelf or cupboard space before choosing a wider model, particularly if your kitchen has limited work surfaces. Dough preparation matters too: overly wet dough can cling to rollers, while dough that is too dry may crack as it passes through. Follow a recipe designed for hand-rolled pasta and work in manageable portions. A compact routine for mixing, rolling, drying, and storing sheets can make more difference than a small variation in machine width.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a 180 pasta machine worth choosing over a 150 model?
Choose a 180 model if you regularly want wider sheets for large filled pasta, broad noodles, or recipes that benefit from fewer seams. For smaller batches and common home pasta shapes, a 150 machine may be easier to fit on the counter and simpler to store. Wider capacity does not automatically mean better results; dough thickness and handling still matter. I would base the decision on the recipes you make most often and the space available for feeding and catching the sheets. If you are unsure, the 150 format is the more measured starting point.
Do the Marcato Atlas and Ampia models include the same pasta cutters?
Do not assume their included cutter setups are identical just because both carry the Marcato name. The listings in this roundup distinguish Atlas and Ampia models, and package details can vary by version. Check the exact included components for the specific model you intend to buy, including whether a hand crank, cutter, and instructions are listed. This matters if you want to make more than flat sheets without buying additional equipment. When comparing listings, use the complete model name rather than relying on a shared brand or similar appearance.
Can I wash a stainless-steel pasta maker with water?
Follow the care instructions for the exact machine, but do not assume stainless-steel construction makes the whole pasta maker suitable for washing or soaking. Water can remain around rollers or mechanical parts, while dried dough is often easier to remove with a brush. Let residue dry and clear it carefully instead of pushing dough deeper into the machine. The Imperia’s included cleaning brush is a practical extra, but it does not replace proper care. Avoid using a dishwasher unless the manufacturer specifically says that the machine is dishwasher-safe.
Which type is a better first machine: Atlas 150, Ampia 150, or Imperia?
For a straightforward first purchase, I would start by comparing the exact included cutter setup and the pasta shapes you want to make. The Atlas 150 is the lineup’s balanced pick, while the Ampia 150 offers a different Marcato configuration that may suit buyers who prefer its style and workflow. Imperia is appealing if its wood handle and included brush match your priorities. None is automatically easiest for every beginner, since dough preparation and counter setup also shape the learning curve. Choose the package that covers your intended shapes without relying on accessories you may not need.
How much counter space should I leave for a hand-crank pasta maker?
Plan for more than the machine’s footprint: you need room to attach the clamp, turn the crank, feed dough, and catch the emerging sheet. Wider models may call for additional working room, especially when rolling long pieces. A clear surface beside the machine also helps prevent sheets from folding or sticking while you adjust the rollers. Check your counter edge and clearance before ordering, since a clamp may not fit every countertop profile. If space is tight, a 150 model may be easier to place and store than a wider option.
Conclusion
I recommend the Marcato Atlas 150 as the best overall for buyers who want a balanced, familiar hand-crank setup. The standard Atlas 150 is my best-value direction for shoppers who want the core format without choosing a wider machine for capacity they may not use. For beginners, I would start with the Atlas 150 or Ampia 150 and select by the included cutter arrangement and preferred workflow. The Atlas 180 or Ampia 180 is the premium fit for wider sheets, while Imperia is the specific-needs pick for buyers drawn to its wood handle and supplied cleaning brush. Match the width and included components to your recipes, and the right choice becomes much clearer.
