The Wacaco Picopresso: The World’s Smallest Espresso Maker?
The Wacaco Picopresso is possibly the smallest espresso maker ever made, but it’s not skimping when it comes to the spec. Let’s take a look at what makes this portable coffee brewer so special.
You’ve probably heard of Wacaco before; they make coffee gear for travellers. “Whether you plan to go hiking, camping, stay in a hotel, or simply enjoy a great coffee at home or at the office, our hand-powered portable coffee makers help you prepare amazing coffee or espresso, anytime, anywhere”.
The Picopresso is based on the very successful earlier versions – the Nanopresso and the Minipresso – which changed the way portable coffees could be brewed using their hand-powered piston technology.
A small brewer with massive ideas
It’s a small yet portable espresso maker, measuring a whisker over 10cm tall, and weighing 350g. That’s more or less the weight of a can of Coca Cola, if you want some sort of comparison to visualise it. Just right for popping in your handbag ladies or your travel rucksack. Keep it in the glove compartment of your car or pop it in your case when you go on holiday. It’s one way to be sure that you are going to get a decent espresso wherever you go.
It mimics a commercial machine with its wide portafilter and ability to tweak and adjust. If you’re looking for a simple and foolproof way of making a mediocre coffee, you’re probably better off looking elsewhere.
You’ll need to master the good art of manual espresso and dial in the grind, the tamping and the perfect pressure.
And if you get it right, you’ll get an authentic espresso that would rival any high-end commercial machine. Great coffee on demand – what more could you need?
How does the Wacaco Picopresso work?
Ah, good question. We’ll let you look at this video for the full tutorial:
The Picopresso build and specifications
They build it like a tank if a tank is a suitable synonym for a mini coffee brewer. The 52mm stainless steel basket with a naked portafilter holds a generous 18 grams of ground coffee. The tank itself holds 80ml of water. Double shots all around from reportedly the world’s smallest espresso maker.
They’re pretty confident in the durability because it comes with a 2-year warranty.
What truly sets the Picopresso apart is its ability to produce a rich and flavorful espresso comparable to what you’d get from a traditional machine. The 18 bars of pressure it generates ensure a proper extraction, resulting in a velvety crema and a full-bodied taste that surpassed my expectations for a portable device.
Ease of use
Using the Picopresso is a straightforward process. The semi-automatic piston allows for manual control over the extraction process, giving users the ability to tailor the strength and flavor of their espresso. The included accessories, such as the tamper and filter basket, contribute to a seamless brewing experience.
Cleaning and Maintenance
Keeping the Picopresso clean is a breeze. The detachable parts are easily rinsed, and the compact size means there’s not much to disassemble. The thoughtful design makes it a low-maintenance device, perfect for those who appreciate efficiency.
Are there any downsides?
While the Picopresso is impressive on many fronts, it’s worth noting that the water capacity is limited, which may not be suitable for serving multiple cups in one go. However, this is a compromise one expects with a portable espresso maker.
What is the Wacaco Picopresso price?
The Picopresso retails at £109.00 ($129.90 USD)
Go get yours at wacaco.com.
In summary, the Wacaco Picopresso is a game-changer for coffee enthusiasts who refuse to compromise on the quality of their espresso, no matter where they find themselves. Its impressive build, espresso quality, and portability make it a worthwhile investment for anyone who appreciates a perfect shot of espresso on the go.
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