Sage Barista Express Impress
Semi-automatic espresso machine with built-in conical burr grinder. Features innovative Impress Puck System for consistent tamping, PID temperature control, and adjustable settings. Designed for home baristas seeking cafe-quality espresso with streamlined workflow and reduced mess.
Summary Rating: 🌰🌰🌰🌰½ (4.5 out of 5 Nutz)
The Sage Barista Express Impress is a semi-automatic espresso machine that builds upon the popular Barista Express model with several key improvements.
This all-in-one unit combines a conical burr grinder, espresso maker, and steam wand in a compact design suitable for home use. The machine’s standout feature is its innovative Impress Puck System, which aims to simplify and standardize the tamping process, addressing a common pain point for home baristas. With its PID temperature control, adjustable grind settings, and programmable shot volumes, the Barista Express Impress offers a balance of automation and customization.
It’s particularly known for its ability to produce consistent, cafe-quality espresso while reducing the learning curve and mess associated with traditional espresso preparation.
It’s also the machine we use at CoffeeNutz every day 🙂
It’s Known for:
Innovative Impress Puck System
The Sage Barista Express Impress is primarily recognised for its Impress Puck System, which aims to simplify and standardise the tamping process. This feature assists users in achieving consistent tamping pressure and technique, addressing a common challenge for home baristas.
Intelligent Dosing
The machine’s smart dosing system automatically calculates and adjusts the amount of coffee for each shot. It learns from previous doses and makes corrections, reducing guesswork and improving consistency.
Improved Grinder
Compared to its predecessor, the Barista Express Impress offers an enhanced built-in conical burr grinder with 25 grind settings, providing users with more precise control over their grind size.
User-Friendly Interface
The prominent LED display and intuitive controls make the machine accessible to beginners while still offering enough customisation for more experienced users.
Consistent Espresso Quality
Many users report that the Barista Express Impress produces high-quality, cafe-style espresso with rich flavour and good crema, even for those with limited barista skills.
Compact All-in-One Design
The machine combines a grinder, espresso maker, and steam wand in a relatively compact footprint, making it suitable for home kitchens with limited space.
Thermocoil Heating System
Its Thermocoil heating system with PID temperature control is noted for providing precise temperature management, contributing to the overall quality of the espresso.
Pros and Cons
The Sage Barista Express Impress offers significant improvements in consistency and ease of use, particularly with its Impress Puck System and intelligent dosing. While it produces high-quality espresso, the machine still requires some learning and maintenance. Its all-in-one design and customisable features make it suitable for home baristas, despite a higher price point.
Key Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Machine Type | Semi-automatic espresso machine with built-in grinder |
| Dimensions | 33 cm (width) x 38 cm (depth) x 41 cm (height) |
| Weight | 10.98 kg |
| Water Tank | 2 litres, removable with water filter holder |
| Hopper | 250 grams |
| Pump | 15 bar Italian pump |
| Grinder | Built-in conical burr grinder with 25 grind settings |
| Heater | Thermocoil heating system with PID temperature control |
| Frother | Manual steam wand (130°C steam) |
Standout Features: (1) Impress Puck System for consistent tamping and dosing, (2) intelligent dosing with auto-correction, (3) enhanced conical burr grinder with 25 settings, (4) Thermocoil heating system with PID temperature control, and (5) compact all-in-one design combining grinder, espresso maker, and steam wand.
Design and Build
Aesthetic appeal
The Sage Barista Express Impress maintains the sleek, modern design of its predecessor. Its brushed stainless steel exterior gives it a professional look that fits well in most kitchen environments. The machine’s compact footprint belies its functionality, making it an attractive option for those with limited counter space. The prominent LED display and illuminated buttons add a contemporary touch, enhancing its visual appeal.
Durability and construction
Built with high-quality materials, the Barista Express Impress is designed to withstand regular use. The stainless steel body is not only aesthetically pleasing but also resistant to wear and tear. The machine’s internal components, including the conical burr grinder and Thermocoil heating system, are engineered for longevity. However, as with any espresso machine, proper maintenance is crucial for ensuring its long-term durability.
Ease of use and ergonomics
The machine’s layout is thoughtfully designed for user convenience. The bean hopper and water tank are easily accessible from the top and rear, respectively. The Impress Puck System simplifies the tamping process, making it more ergonomic and reducing strain on the user’s wrist. The steam wand is positioned for easy access and manoeuvrability. The intuitive control panel, with its clear LED display and well-labelled buttons, enhances overall usability. However, some users may find the learning curve steeper than fully automatic machines, particularly when fine-tuning grind settings and shot volumes.
Performance
Brewing process
The Sage Barista Express Impress streamlines the espresso-making process with its Impress Puck System. This feature guides users through dosing and tamping, reducing variability in these crucial steps. The machine grinds directly into the portafilter, and the intelligent dosing system adjusts the amount based on previous shots. The automated tamping mechanism applies consistent pressure, creating a more uniform puck for extraction.
Temperature stability
Equipped with a Thermocoil heating system and PID temperature control, the machine maintains a stable brewing temperature. This consistency is crucial for extracting the full flavour profile from coffee beans. The PID controller allows for minor temperature adjustments, enabling users to fine-tune their brew according to different coffee roasts or personal preferences.
Consistency of results
The combination of the Impress Puck System, intelligent dosing, and precise temperature control contributes to highly consistent espresso shots. Users report achieving repeatable results more easily than with the previous model. However, as with any semi-automatic machine, there’s still room for user input and experimentation, which can affect consistency for novice users.
Speed and efficiency
The Barista Express Impress heats up quickly, typically ready to brew within 30 seconds. The grinding and tamping process is faster and more efficient than manual methods. However, as it uses a single boiler system, there’s a brief waiting period when switching between brewing and steaming. This design is generally efficient for home use but may be less suitable for preparing multiple milk-based drinks in quick succession.
Coffee Taste
Flavour Profile of Coffee Produced
The Sage Barista Express Impress consistently produces espresso with a rich, full-bodied flavour profile. When properly dialled in, it extracts a well-balanced shot that highlights the nuanced notes of various coffee beans. Users report tasting distinct flavour characteristics, from chocolatey undertones in darker roasts to fruity accents in lighter ones.
Crema and Body
The machine generates a satisfying golden-brown crema, typically thick and persistent. The body of the espresso is generally robust and smooth, contributing to a pleasing mouthfeel. The Impress Puck System’s consistent tamping helps achieve this quality crema and body more reliably than many home machines.
Extraction Consistency and Customisation
With its PID temperature control and Impress Puck System, the machine offers impressive shot-to-shot consistency. Users can fine-tune their extractions by adjusting grind size, dose, and brew time. This level of customisation allows coffee enthusiasts to experiment and achieve their preferred taste profile.
Milk-Based Drinks
The manual steam wand produces microfoam suitable for latte art, though it requires some practice to master. The quality of milk-based drinks is generally high, with the espresso flavour holding up well when combined with steamed milk. However, the single boiler system means a short wait between brewing and steaming.
Versatility with Different Roasts
The Barista Express Impress handles a wide range of roasts well. Its adjustable grind settings and customisable brewing parameters allow users to optimise extraction for both light and dark roasts. This versatility enables users to explore various coffee origins and roast profiles.
Aroma and Aftertaste
The espresso produced typically has a pronounced aroma that reflects the coffee’s origin and roast level. The aftertaste is often described as clean and lingering, with minimal bitterness when the machine is properly adjusted.
Acidity and Bitterness Balance
When correctly dialled in, the machine produces espresso with a well-balanced acidity and minimal unwanted bitterness. The ability to adjust temperature and extraction parameters helps users find the sweet spot for their preferred beans, managing the delicate balance between acidity and bitterness.
Comparison with Other Brewing Methods
Compared to manual espresso machines, the Barista Express Impress offers more consistent results with less user expertise required. It produces a richer, more intense flavour than pod-based systems. While it may not match the precision of high-end commercial machines, it comes close to cafe-quality espresso for home use.
Versatility
Range of coffee styles
The Sage Barista Express Impress is primarily designed for espresso-based drinks but offers versatility within this category. It excels at producing traditional espresso shots and can easily accommodate lungo or ristretto variations. With its manual steam wand, the machine is capable of creating a wide array of milk-based beverages such as cappuccinos, lattes, flat whites, and macchiatos. For those who prefer longer drinks, the hot water dispenser allows for Americanos or long blacks.
Adjustability and customisation options
The machine provides numerous customisation options to cater to individual preferences:
Grind settings
With 25 grind size settings, users can fine-tune their grind to suit different coffee beans and roast levels.
Dose control
The intelligent dosing system learns from previous shots, but users can still manually adjust the dose amount to their liking.
Shot volume
Programmable shot volumes allow for consistent single and double shots, with the option to manually override for custom extractions.
Temperature control
The PID temperature control system enables minor adjustments to brewing temperature, useful for optimising extraction for different roasts.
Pressure gauge
A visible pressure gauge helps users monitor and adjust their extraction in real-time.
Steam wand
The manual steam wand offers control over milk texture, allowing for everything from silky microfoam to frothy cappuccino milk.
These adjustable parameters provide coffee enthusiasts with the flexibility to experiment and dial in their perfect shot, accommodating a range of coffee origins, roast profiles, and personal taste preferences.
Maintenance and Cleaning
Ease of cleaning
The Sage Barista Express Impress requires regular cleaning to maintain optimal performance. Daily cleaning tasks are straightforward, including wiping the steam wand after each use and purging it with steam. The drip tray and grounds container are easily removable for emptying and cleaning. The Impress Puck System helps reduce mess during the tamping process, making daily clean-up easier compared to traditional manual tamping.
Required maintenance
Regular maintenance includes:
- Backflushing the machine with a cleaning tablet every 200 shots or 2-3 months
- Descaling every 2-3 months, depending on water hardness
- Cleaning the grinder burrs every 1-2 months or when changing coffee beans
- Replacing the water filter every 3 months
The machine provides cleaning alerts to remind users of these tasks. While some users find the maintenance schedule demanding, it’s crucial for ensuring longevity and consistent coffee quality.
Longevity and reliability
With proper care and maintenance, the Barista Express Impress is built to last. Its stainless steel construction and quality internal components contribute to its durability. Most users report reliable performance over several years of regular use. However, as with any complex machine, occasional issues may arise, particularly with heavy use.
Common long-term concerns include:
- Potential wear on the grinder burrs after extended use
- Possible degradation of seals and gaskets over time
- Buildup of scale in areas not easily reached during regular cleaning
Sage offers a 2-year warranty, which provides some peace of mind regarding potential defects or early failures. Many users find that with diligent maintenance, the machine continues to perform well beyond the warranty period.
Value for Money
Price point analysis
The Sage Barista Express Impress is positioned in the mid-to-high range of home espresso machines, typically retailing around £729.95. This price point reflects its all-in-one functionality, combining a grinder, espresso maker, and milk frother in a single unit. While it represents a significant investment for home users, it offers professional-grade features that justify the cost for coffee enthusiasts seeking cafe-quality results at home.
Comparison with similar products in the market
When compared to other semi-automatic espresso machines in its price range, the Barista Express Impress holds its own in several key areas:
- It outperforms many competitors in terms of grind adjustability, offering 25 settings compared to the typical 10-15 found in similar machines.
- The Impress Puck System gives it an edge over brands like DeLonghi and Breville in terms of consistency and ease of use for beginners.
- Its build quality and durability are on par with or superior to machines from Gaggia and Rancilio, particularly in its price bracket.
- The machine competes well with brands like Philips, Krups, and Melitta in terms of customisation options and versatility, particularly excelling in grind adjustability and milk frothing control.
- It falls short of some higher-end models from La Marzocco or Rocket in terms of pressure profiling capabilities, but offers better value for money for home users.
- Compared to super-automatic machines at similar price points, it offers more control and potential for better espresso quality, albeit with a steeper learning curve.
The Barista Express Impress stands out for its long-term reliability due to its serviceable design, a feature not always found in competitors at this price point.
Ease of Use
Learning curve
The Sage Barista Express Impress offers a gentler learning curve compared to traditional semi-automatic espresso machines, thanks to its Impress Puck System. However, new users should still expect a period of adjustment. Mastering the grind settings, understanding the pressure gauge, and perfecting milk texturing with the manual steam wand typically takes several weeks of regular use. The machine’s user manual provides helpful guidance, but online tutorials can be beneficial for quicker proficiency.
Daily usability
Once familiar with the machine, daily operation becomes relatively straightforward. The integrated grinder and Impress Puck System streamline the espresso-making process, reducing the time and effort required for each shot. The clear LED display and intuitive controls contribute to a user-friendly experience. Regular cleaning is simple, with easily accessible components like the drip tray and used grounds container.
Quirks or unique aspects
Impress Puck System
This unique feature simplifies dosing and tamping but may feel restrictive to users accustomed to manual control over these steps.
Grind amount dial
The grind amount dial works inversely to what some users might expect – turning it towards the ‘+’ sign decreases the dose, which can be initially confusing.
Single boiler system
While efficient for home use, the single boiler means a brief waiting period when switching between brewing and steaming.
Pressure gauge
The prominent pressure gauge provides useful feedback but requires some practice to interpret effectively.
Programmable features
While offering customisation, some users find the process of programming shot volumes and temperatures less intuitive than on other machines.
Comparison with other Products
How it stacks up against similar products
The Sage Barista Express Impress competes well with other semi-automatic espresso machines in its price range. Compared to the Gaggia Classic Pro, it offers more built-in features and automation, particularly with its integrated grinder and Impress Puck System. Against the Rancilio Silvia, the Barista Express Impress provides more user-friendly controls and consistency, though some coffee enthusiasts prefer the Silvia’s build quality and steam power.
When compared to the DeLonghi La Specialista, the Barista Express Impress offers similar tamping assistance but with a more refined grinder and temperature control system. The Breville Barista Pro, a close relative, lacks the Impress Puck System but features a faster heat-up time and a more modern interface.
What makes it unique or preferable
Impress Puck System
The standout feature is the Impress Puck System, which automates dosing and tamping. This system significantly reduces the learning curve for newcomers and ensures more consistent results than many competitors.
Intelligent dosing
The machine’s ability to learn and adjust dosing based on previous shots is not commonly found in this price range, offering a level of customisation typically reserved for higher-end models.
Grinder quality
With 25 grind settings, the built-in grinder outperforms many integrated grinders in similar machines, offering flexibility comparable to some standalone grinders.
All-in-one design
While not unique, the combination of a quality grinder, espresso maker, and steam wand in a relatively compact footprint is well-executed, making it preferable for those with limited counter space.
User-friendly interface
The clear LED display and intuitive controls make it more accessible than many traditional semi-automatic machines, bridging the gap between entry-level and prosumer models.
Real World Experiences
Aggregate of user experiences
Users generally report positive experiences with the Sage Barista Express Impress. Many appreciate the machine’s ability to produce cafe-quality espresso at home. The learning curve is often described as manageable, with most users achieving satisfactory results within a few weeks. Long-term users frequently comment on the machine’s durability and consistent performance over time.
Common praise
Consistency
The Impress Puck System receives widespread acclaim for its ability to deliver consistent shots, even for beginners.
Espresso quality
Many users are impressed by the flavour and crema of the espresso, often comparing it favourably to cafe offerings.
Customisation options
The range of adjustable settings is frequently praised, allowing users to fine-tune their coffee to personal preferences.
Build quality
The machine’s solid construction and aesthetic appeal are commonly highlighted as positives.
Value for money
Despite the initial investment, many users feel the machine offers good value considering its features and performance.
Common complaints
Learning curve
Some users find the initial setup and dialling in process challenging, particularly those new to espresso making.
Grinder noise
The built-in grinder is occasionally criticised for being louder than expected.
Maintenance requirements
Regular cleaning and descaling needs are sometimes perceived as demanding, especially by those upgrading from simpler machines.
Single boiler limitations
Users preparing multiple milk-based drinks report frustration with the wait time between brewing and steaming.
Milk frothing learning curve
While capable of producing good microfoam, some users find mastering the manual steam wand challenging.
Sustainability
Environmental Impact
The Sage Barista Express Impress, like most espresso machines, has a mixed environmental profile. Its durable construction promotes longevity, potentially reducing electronic waste compared to less robust machines. The use of stainless steel for many components is beneficial, as it’s recyclable and long-lasting. However, the machine does contain plastic parts and electronic components that can be challenging to recycle.
The ability to use reusable filters instead of paper ones reduces ongoing waste. Additionally, by encouraging home brewing, it may reduce the use of disposable cups associated with cafe-bought coffee. The machine’s reliance on whole beans rather than pods or capsules also minimises packaging waste.
On the downside, the production and transportation of such a complex machine inevitably have a carbon footprint. The regular need for descaling solutions and cleaning tablets also introduces chemical usage and potential environmental concerns.
Energy Efficiency
The Barista Express Impress is designed with some energy-saving features. Its auto-off function, which activates after 30 minutes of inactivity, helps reduce unnecessary energy consumption. The Thermocoil heating system is generally more energy-efficient than traditional boilers, heating water on demand rather than maintaining a large volume at temperature.
However, as a semi-automatic machine with multiple functions, it does consume more energy than simpler coffee makers. The grinder, in particular, adds to the overall power usage. The machine’s power consumption is approximately 1560 watts when in use, which is relatively standard for its class but higher than basic coffee makers or manual brewing methods.
The machine’s ability to quickly reach brewing temperature is a positive in terms of energy efficiency, reducing the warm-up time and associated energy use. However, for users who make multiple drinks throughout the day, the need to reheat for each use can increase overall energy consumption compared to machines that maintain temperature.
Accessories and Upgrades
Available Add-ons
The Sage Barista Express Impress comes with a range of standard accessories, but several additional items are available to enhance the coffee-making experience:
Knock box
A dedicated knock box for disposing of used coffee pucks can improve workflow and cleanliness.
Precision baskets
Aftermarket precision baskets can potentially improve extraction consistency, though options may be limited due to the 54mm portafilter size.
Tamping mat
A quality tamping mat can protect countertops and provide a stable surface for any manual tamping.
Milk jugs
Additional milk jugs in various sizes allow for more versatility in milk-based drink preparation.
Cleaning supplies
Specialised cleaning brushes, backflushing discs, and cleaning solutions are available to maintain the machine’s performance.
Bean storage
Airtight coffee bean storage containers can help preserve bean freshness, complementing the machine’s built-in grinder.
Potential for Future Upgrades
The Barista Express Impress, being a comprehensive all-in-one machine, has limited scope for significant hardware upgrades. However, some potential areas for enhancement include:
Portafilter upgrades
While options are limited due to the 54mm size, some aftermarket portafilters may become available, potentially offering improved heat retention or extraction quality.
Grinder burrs
In the long term, replacement burrs may be available, possibly offering improved grind consistency or durability.
Software updates
While not confirmed, future firmware updates could potentially refine the Impress Puck System or add new programmable features.
Customisation
Some users have found ways to modify the machine for specific needs, such as adjusting the OPV (Over Pressure Valve) for different pressure profiles, though this is not officially supported and may void the warranty.
Conclusion
Final verdict
The Sage Barista Express Impress stands out as a well-designed, all-in-one espresso machine that successfully balances automation with manual control. Its innovative Impress Puck System and intelligent dosing feature significantly reduce the learning curve typically associated with semi-automatic machines. The quality of espresso produced is consistently high, rivalling that of many cafes when properly dialled in. While it requires regular maintenance and has a few quirks to master, the machine offers excellent value for its price point, particularly for those serious about their home espresso.
Recommendation (who should buy this)
This machine is ideally suited for:
Enthusiastic home baristas
Those who want to delve into espresso making without the steep learning curve of fully manual machines will appreciate the balance of guidance and control.
Upgrade seekers
Users looking to step up from basic pod machines or lower-end espresso makers will find this a significant improvement in quality and versatility.
Space-conscious coffee lovers
The all-in-one design makes it perfect for those who want a comprehensive setup without sacrificing too much counter space.
Consistency seekers
People who value shot-to-shot consistency but still want involvement in the brewing process will benefit from the Impress Puck System.
Milk-based drink fans
While it has a single boiler, the steam wand is capable of producing cafe-quality microfoam for lattes and cappuccinos.
However, it may not be the best choice for:
Absolute beginners
Despite its user-friendly features, it still requires some learning and experimentation to get the best results.
High-volume users
Those needing to make many drinks in quick succession might find the single boiler limiting.
Budget-conscious buyers
While offering good value, it represents a significant investment that may not be justifiable for casual coffee drinkers.
Detailed Ratings
Overall score
🌰🌰🌰🌰½ (4.5 out of 5 Nutz)
The Sage Barista Express Impress earns a strong 4.5 out of 5 on our Coffee Nutz rating scale. This score reflects its innovative features, consistent espresso quality, and user-friendly design, making it an excellent choice for both novice and experienced home baristas seeking cafe-quality coffee.
Subscores for key aspects
Performance: 🌰🌰🌰🌰½ (4.5/5)
- High-quality, consistent espresso
- Innovative Impress Puck System for improved extraction
- PID temperature control for optimal brewing
Value for Money: 🌰🌰🌰🌰 (4/5)
- Comprehensive feature set justifies the price
- All-in-one design eliminates need for separate grinder
- Potential for long-term savings over cafe-bought coffee
Design: 🌰🌰🌰🌰🌰 (5/5)
- Sleek, professional appearance
- Durable stainless steel construction
- Well-designed interface with clear LED display
Versatility: 🌰🌰🌰🌰 (4/5)
- Capable of producing various espresso-based drinks
- 25 grind settings for different coffee types
- Manual steam wand for milk texturing
Ease of Use: 🌰🌰🌰🌰 (4/5)
- Impress Puck System simplifies dosing and tamping
- Intuitive controls for most functions
- Some learning curve for advanced features
Maintenance: 🌰🌰🌰½ (3.5/5)
- Regular cleaning required for optimal performance
- Some parts easily accessible for cleaning
- Descaling process can be time-consuming
Durability: 🌰🌰🌰🌰½ (4.5/5)
- Robust stainless steel construction
- Quality internal components
- Generally reliable with proper care
Milk Frothing: 🌰🌰🌰🌰 (4/5)
- Manual steam wand capable of producing microfoam
- Good steam pressure for texturing milk
- Requires practice to master
Speed and Efficiency: 🌰🌰🌰🌰 (4/5)
- Quick heat-up time with Thermocoil system
- Efficient brewing process
- Single boiler may slow preparation of multiple milk drinks
Customisation: 🌰🌰🌰🌰½ (4.5/5)
- 25 grind settings
- Adjustable dose and shot volume
- PID temperature control for fine-tuning
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the Impress Puck System work?
The Impress Puck System automates the dosing and tamping process:
- It grinds coffee directly into the portafilter
- Uses intelligent dosing to adjust the amount based on previous shots
- Applies consistent tamping pressure (approximately 10 kg)
- Provides feedback via an LED indicator to ensure optimal dose
This system aims to reduce variability and simplify the espresso-making process for users.
What’s the difference between the Barista Express Impress and the original Barista Express?
Key differences include:
- The Impress Puck System for automated dosing and tamping
- 25 grind settings instead of 18
- Intelligent dosing feature
- Updated user interface with LED indicators
- Slightly higher price point
The Impress model offers more consistency and ease of use, particularly for beginners.
How long does it take to heat up?
The Barista Express Impress uses a Thermocoil heating system that allows for quick heat-up:
- Ready to brew in approximately 30 seconds
- Steam function may require additional warm-up time
This rapid heat-up time is beneficial for users who want to make coffee quickly in the morning.
Can I make milk-based drinks like lattes and cappuccinos?
Yes, the machine is capable of making various milk-based drinks:
- It features a manual steam wand for milk texturing
- The wand can produce microfoam suitable for latte art
- Users can create cappuccinos, lattes, flat whites, and other espresso-based milk drinks
- Some practice may be required to master milk texturing techniques
How often does the machine need to be cleaned?
Regular cleaning is essential for optimal performance:
- Daily: Wipe the steam wand after each use and purge it
- Weekly: Clean the drip tray, empty the grounds container, and wipe the exterior
- Monthly: Run a cleaning cycle using the provided cleaning tablets
- Every 2-3 months: Descale the machine, depending on water hardness
The machine provides cleaning alerts to remind users of necessary maintenance.
Is the grinder adjustable, and how many settings does it have?
Yes, the grinder is adjustable:
- It features 25 grind size settings
- This range allows for fine-tuning to suit different coffee beans and roast levels
- The grinder is designed to work with the Impress Puck System for optimal dosing
What type of water should I use in the machine?
For best results and to protect the machine:
- Use filtered or bottled water
- Avoid using distilled or heavily mineralised water
- The machine comes with a water filter to help reduce scale build-up
- Replace the water filter every 3 months or after about 100 litres of use
Can I use pre-ground coffee with this machine?
While it’s possible to use pre-ground coffee:
- The machine is designed to work best with freshly ground beans
- Using pre-ground coffee may result in less consistent results
- If using pre-ground, choose an espresso grind and use the provided single-wall filter baskets
For optimal performance, it’s recommended to use whole beans and the built-in grinder.
