Sage Barista Express vs. Barista Pro

There is a high probability that you are familiar with Sage Barista Express which is one of the absolute most popular models of Sage. This legendary espresso machine is often the first espresso machine for many, thanks to its simple retro design, built-in grinder, and beginner-friendly features that teach you the basics of espresso brewing. The espresso machine allows you to use non-pressurized baskets, meaning single-walled baskets, which is the professional way to brew espresso in cafes. In 2019, Sage introduced a new model called Sage Barista Pro. The model is very similar to the previous model Barista Express but has more features and improved internal components. It can be difficult to see the differences between them, and thus we highlight in this article the pros and cons and differences to help you with your purchase of an espresso machine or About if you are looking for an upgrade.

External Design and Its Features

First and foremost the basics: both models have a built-in grinder to get fresh ground coffee before brewing. The grinder is the same for both models, but Barista Pro allows you to set the grinder to 30 different grind settings, while Barista Express only offers 18 steps, which means that Pro has finer adjustability. Pro also has an updated design with a more modern look, but the dimensions do not differ much between the two models. Both models have a hot water outlet for those who want to drink tea or Americano. However, on Barista Pro the hot water outlet is placed right where espresso comes out, so you do not need to move the cup when you want to make an Americano, which is a plus for Pro.

The biggest difference between them is digital vs analog display. Express has four buttons and a pressure gauge. In contrast, Pro has an LCD display with a scroll wheel and smaller buttons. Some prefer the analog pressure gauge that Express offers, but we do not believe that the pressure gauge is the ultimate way to see About whether you are brewing well or not. Rather, by looking at the brew time, one can deduce About whether one has ground too coarsely or too finely and thus adjust the brewing better. In our opinion, the digital display from Pro provides a better overview and control over the brewing process.

Internal Parts and Performance

It may be the appearance that shows the differences most clearly between them, but in reality, it is the internal components and their performance that is the biggest difference and, in our opinion, the difference that determines which one you choose.

Barista Express has a Thermocoil heating system. Here, water is pushed through a heated coil to achieve a brewing temperature between 90 and 96 degrees. This takes about 45 to 60 seconds from the time you turn on the machine until it reaches its brewing temperature. Barista Pro, on the other hand, has a newer Thermojet heating system that reaches its brewing temperature within 3 seconds. This gives Barista Pro many advantages, such as stronger and more efficient milk frothing; you do not have to wait between brews and can brew cup after cup quickly and efficiently. You do not have to wait when switching from brewing to milk frothing, unlike Express, where you need to wait for the machine to build up its steam pressure.

Summary

Both machines are fantastic machines that introduce you to espresso brewing. That is exactly why both Pro and Express are sold side by side rather than one replacing the other. Which machine you should buy depends entirely on what you are looking for. About If you are looking for a machine that is efficient and can quickly brew your espresso and milk drinks with a more modern look, then Sage Barista Pro is the perfect option. About If you are looking for an espresso machine with a classic retro design with an analog pressure gauge, then Express is the perfect machine for you. About If you have already had a Sage Barista Express and feel that you want to upgrade, then Pro is a great choice.