In this comparison, we’ll look at popular desk top manual rosin presses available today: the Rosineer Grip, Mighty-5, Boost-6, Dulytek DHP5, PurePressure Helix, and LTQ Vapor KP-1. When evaluating these models, it’s essential to consider factors like build quality, pressure capability, temperature control, advanced features, ease of use, and price. Here’s a detailed breakdown.

Rosineer Grip: A Closer Look

The Rosineer Grip offers a solid entry point for those interested in rosin extraction. Its moderate pressure capacity and ease of use make it a good choice for beginners.

Key Specs:

• Pressure Range: Up 2.5 ton
• Plate Size: 3” x 5”
• Type: Manual press
• Price: $299

Pros:

1. Build Quality: Solid construction, designed for home use, ensuring durability.

2. Pressure Capacity: Moderate capacity, perfect for small batches and personal use.

3. Secure Table Attachment: Offers a configuration to stabilize the press on a work surface.

4. Ease of Use: Intuitive design suitable for newcomers to rosin extraction.

5. Affordable Price: Accessible for those just starting.

Drawbacks:

1. Manual Operation: Requires physical effort to rotate the handle, which may be a drawback for some users looking for convenience.

2. Assembly Required: While assembly is straightforward (attaching legs and the control panel shelf), some users may prefer a fully assembled option.

3. No Pressure Meter: The press does not have a built-in pressure meter, but it is reflected in the price.

Next Up: Rosineer Mighty-5

The Rosineer Mighty-5 is an advanced hydraulic press that caters to both beginners and seasoned users looking for efficiency and consistency in rosin extraction.

Key Specs:

• Pressure Range: Up to 5 ton
• Plate Size: 3” x 4”
• Type: Hydraulic press
• Price: $469

Key Features

1. Pressure Meter: Includes a pressure gauge with detailed tips, helping users understand optimal pressure ranges for different materials.

2. High Pressure Capacity: With a maximum pressure of 5 tons, it can handle larger and more demanding batches compared to manual options.

3. Tilt Feature: The ability to tilt the press (so called the DripTech function) facilitates rosin flow in a specific direction, enhancing the collection process.

Drawbacks:

1. Higher Price: At $469, it is more expensive than the Rosineer Grip, which could be a consideration for budget-conscious users.

Boost-6: A Powerful Option

Designed for users seeking a reliable hydraulic press without too many features, the Boost-6 offers a strong choice at a competitive price.

Key Specs:

• Pressure Range: Up to 6 ton
• Plate Size: 3” x 5”
• Type: Hydraulic press
• Price: $399

What’s Great About the Rosineer Boost-6?

1. Impressive Pressure Capacity: With a maximum pressure of 6 tons, it can handle larger batches and tougher materials, making it suitable for more serious extraction efforts.

2. Enclosed Body: The enclosed design enhances safety and helps contain any mess during operation, creating a cleaner workspace.

3. Hydraulic Jack with Overpressure Protection: This feature ensures safe operation by preventing excessive pressure, protecting both the press and the user.

4. Affordability: Priced at $399, it provides a solid value for its capabilities, appealing to users looking for quality without breaking the bank.

Drawbacks:

1. No Pressure Gauge: The absence of a pressure gauge may make it difficult for advanced users to gauge exact pressure levels during operation.

2. Relatively Heavy: Weighing in at 50 lbs, it is on the heavier side compared to some other models, which may impact portability and ease of storage.

LTQ Vapor KP-1: Compact and Efficient

The LTQ Vapor KP-1 is an excellent choice for those with limited space.

Key Specs:

• Pressure Range: Up to 4 Ton
• Plate Size: 4.5” x 4.7”
• Type: Hydraulic press
• Price: $339

Pros:

1. Compact Size and Weight: With dimensions of 12.3″ x 7.7″ x 5.1″ and a weight of only 20 lbs, it’s easy to store and transport, making it ideal for small setups.

2. Affordable Price: At $339, it provides good value for users looking for a capable press without a hefty investment.

3. Enclosed Construction: Similarly to the Boost-6 model, it enhances safety but may complicate maintenance.

Drawbacks:

1. Slow Plate Heating: The KP-1 has slow heating times compared to some other presses, which may affect efficiency for users looking for quick processing.

2. No Timer Setting: The absence of a timer can hinder precise timing during extraction.

3. No Pressure Meter: Lacking a gauge may make it hard to measure pressure accurately.

Dulytek DHP5: Thoughtful Features

The Dulytek DHP5 offers a reliable hydraulic press with features that enhance the extraction process.

Key Specs:

• Pressure Range: Up to 5 ton
• Plate Size: 3″ x 4″
• Type: Hydraulic press
• Price: $369

Pros:

1. Driptek Compatible: The DHP5 can be paired with the optional Driptek system (sold separately), allowing for improved rosin collection and reducing mess during extraction.

2. Replaceable Bottle Jack: The design includes a replaceable bottle jack, making maintenance easier and extending the lifespan of the press.

3. Intuitive Control Panel: The Dulytek signature control panel is user-friendly, making it accessible for beginners while providing enough functionality for more experienced users.

Downsides:

1. No Pressure Gauge: We would have loved to see a pressure meter incorporated into this machine.

PurePressure Helix: Premium Manual Press

The PurePressure Helix is a premium manual press that offers advanced features aimed at serious users looking for high-quality rosin extraction.

Key Specs:

• Pressure Range: Up to 3 ton
• Plate Size: 2.5” x 4”
• Type: Manual press
• Price: $1497.5
• 14″ D x 21.4″ T x 15.5″ W

What’s Great About the Helix 3?

1. Solid Construction: Built with high-quality materials for durability, ensuring it can withstand regular use over time.

2. Advanced Control Panel with Pressure Meter: The touchscreen interface allows users to save press history as recipes, providing a level of precision and consistency not found in many other presses.

3. Attachable Design: The press comes with table clamps that enhance stability and allow for secure mounting to a work surface.

4. Removable Drip Tray: The included drip tray simplifies cleanup and prevents mess during the extraction process.

Drawbacks:

1. Heavy Weight: Weighing 65 lbs, it’s cumbersome and may limit portability.

2. High Price: At $1497, it’s significantly more expensive than other options, making it less accessible for casual users.

Here is the final comparison of all six machines:

Brand	Rosineer			LTQ Vapor	Dulytek	PurePressure
Model	GRIP	Mighty-5	BOOST-6	KP-1	DHP5	Helix
Type	Manual	Hydraulic	Hydraulic	Hydraulic	Hydraulic	Manual
Pressure	2.5 Ton	5 Ton	6 Ton	4 Ton	5 Ton	3 Ton
Plate size	3″ x 5″	3″ x 4″	3″ x 5″	4.5″ x 4.7″	3″ x 4″	2.5″ x 4″
Pressure Display	No	Yes	No	No	No	Yes
Tilting / Driptech	No	Yes	No	No	Yes	No
Capacity	10 grams	15 grams	20 grams	10 grams	15 grams	10 grams
Regular Price	$299	$469	$399.00	$339	$369	$1497.50
Reviews	5 out of 5 (21 total)	4.7 out of 5 (8 total)	N/A	4.9 out of 5 (9 total)	4.6 out of 5 (5 total)	5 out of 5 (8 total)
Weight	25 lb	34.7 lb	50.7 lb	20 lb	31 lb	65 lb

Final Verdict

In summary, if you’re just starting, the Rosineer Grip is your best bet. It’s affordable and user-friendly, making it ideal for those new to rosin extraction. Its moderate pressure capacity allows beginners to experiment without a large investment.

For a balanced combination of features and price, go for the Boost-6. With a solid pressure capacity of 6 tons and a reasonable price of $399, the Boost-6 offers excellent performance for both serious hobbyists and newcomers.

The best for versatility is the Dulytek DHP5. The DHP5 is compatible with the Driptek system and features a user-friendly control panel, making it a versatile option for both beginners and experienced extractors. Its replaceable bottle jack also adds to the press longevity.

If space is your main concern, the LTQ Vapor KP-1 would be a good choice. It is compact and lightweight while still providing up to 4 tons of pressure.

Serious users who have no budget constrains and prioritize high-quality precise extractions will appreciate the PurePressure Helix with its advanced control panel and solid construction.

Lastly, the best for advanced features under $1K is the Rosineer Mighty-5. For those seeking advanced functionality without breaking the bank, the Mighty-5 provides a solid hydraulic system with a pressure meter and tilt feature, all for $469.