(checked 2026-10-10)
A faster-heating, screen-equipped step up from the Barista Express with a well-liked steam wand. Wirecutter found its shots inconsistent, though, and Amazon owners flag durability.
Top complaints
- Stops working or breaks early
Durability is a negative aspect in Amazon's review summary, and reliability is mixed; some owners say it stops working properly or breaks within three months.
- Inconsistent shots
Wirecutter says it didn't pull very consistent shots and offers less guidance and customization than the Barista Touch.
Source: Wirecutter - Not intuitive for newcomers; price debated
Trusted Reviews lists it as un-intuitive for newbie baristas. Value for money is mixed on Amazon, with some saying it isn't worth the high price.
What owners love
- Very fast heat-up
Trusted Reviews says its ThermoJet heating makes it one of the fastest around; Amazon owners cite brew times under 3 minutes.
- Great manual steam wand
Trusted Reviews praises the manual steam wand, and Amazon owners say the frother works like a dream.
- Owners like the coffee and the ease of use
Performance, ease of use, coffee quality and taste are positive aspects on Amazon.
- You want hand-holding as a total beginner
- You want the most consistent shots for the money
- You worry about out-of-warranty repairs
- Fast heat-up on busy mornings
- Manual milk steaming
- A grinder-included setup with a timer display
Scores (tap for why)
What experts say
- Wirecutter (NYT): Not recommended: a similar grinder to the Barista Touch but fewer features and less customization, and it didn't pull very consistent shots.
- Trusted Reviews (Sage Barista Pro, UK): A stellar manual machine with super-fast heat-up, a great steam wand and easy cleaning; un-intuitive for newbie baristas.