Sage Barista Pro Espresso Machine

Description

While many coffee enthusiasts consider the Barista Pro to be simply an upgraded Barista Express, our extensive testing reveals a more complex story.

After weeks of hands-on experience with both machines, we’ve discovered that the differences between these models are just as significant as their similarities.

Key Specifications

• 2.0 L Water Tank
• 3 Second Ready Time
• Low Pressure Pre-infusion
• PID Temperature Control
• 9 Bar Espresso Extraction
• Standard + Pressurized Baskets
• Dedicated Hot Water Spout
• Dimensions: 36 cm wide x 34 cm deep x 43 cm tall

Major Differences We Discovered

During our testing, we identified several crucial distinctions between the models:

• Advanced ThermoJet heating system (replacing the original thermocoil)
• Enhanced precision with 30 grind settings (compared to 18)
• Modern LCD display featuring shot timer
• Removal of the pressure gauge
• Precise 9 bar OPV (Over Pressure Valve)

In-Depth Analysis of Changes

Our testing revealed that the new ThermoJet system achieves operating temperature in just 3 seconds, with noticeably improved steam readiness and milk frothing speed.

However, we found that the actual shot preparation time remains similar for both machines. Whether you’re using the Pro or Express, you’ll still need to:

• Grind your beans
• Warm up the brew path
• Heat your portafilter
• Pre-heat your cup

The Pro’s advantages become apparent in three key areas:

• Faster steam preparation
• More efficient milk frothing
• Smoother temperature transitions between brewing and steaming

We noticed the Express’s larger thermocoil creates a distinctive sound when cooling (similar to water hitting a hot pan) – something the Pro’s system eliminates.

Regarding grind settings, our side-by-side comparison showed the actual grinding range remains identical. While the Pro offers twice as many distinct settings, the Express can be adjusted in half-steps, resulting in similar practical precision.

The Pro’s shot timer versus the Express’s pressure gauge presents an interesting trade-off. In our experience, both provide equally valuable feedback through different means.

A significant technical improvement in the Pro is its 9-bar OPV setting, compared to the Express’s approximately 14-bar threshold. While theoretically, grind adjustment should compensate for this difference, our testing confirmed that the 9-bar setting produces noticeably better results – similar to the popular Gaggia Classic 9-bar modification.

We believe the Express’s higher OPV setting was likely designed with pressurised basket users in mind. It’s worth noting that newer models, including the Barista Express Impress, now feature the improved 9-bar OPV setting.