Article Summary
There are a lot of portable espresso makers on the market, so it can be difficult to figure out which one is best for you and your needs. The Wacaco Minipresso GR is a compact, lightweight option that pulls real shots of espresso instead of regular coffee.
We’ll break down the key features and highlights from the reviews to make it easy for you to determine if this is the portable espresso maker you’ve been waiting for.
Authentic espresso that’s easy to make
Getting a true espresso from a hand-press can be difficult, but this machine uses an 8 Bar pressure system to give you an authentic, layered shot of espresso. You can use any kind of ground coffee with the Minipresso, whether you choose to grind it yourself or buy it pre-ground.
However, you cannot use coffee pods/capsules with it, so this won’t be the machine for you if you prefer using coffee pods. You can purchase additional filter baskets that allow you to create your own pods to take with you on your travels, though.
Wacaco also offers a “Minipresso Kit” (sold separately) that includes a larger water tank and three additional filter baskets. The larger water tank allows you pull a double shot instead of just a single, and the filter baskets can be stored inside the larger tank to make it easier to pack.
Ultra lightweight and compact design
The Wacaco Minipresso GR is ultra lightweight at just 360g (0.8 lbs), so if you’re counting every ounce of weight for a hike-in camping trip, this may be your best option. The compact design is made using fairly sturdy materials, so it’s just as easy to slip into your travel bag as it is to take camping.
There’s a built-in espresso cup that’s about the size of an espresso shot glass/mug. A protective traveling case is also available (sold separately) if you’re worried about damaging it, but that will also add more weight if that’s one of your concerns.
Full product features and specs
- Hand-operated 8 bar pressurized espresso maker that doesn’t require compressed air or N2O cartridges
- Compact and lightweight at just 360g (0.8 lbs)
- Includes built-in espresso cup and scoop
- Use any variety of ground coffee you desire
- Uses a semi-automatic piston for ease of use when pulling shots of espresso
- 30 day return policy
- 2.75 x 2.36 x 6.89 in
- 70 mL water capacity
Customer ratings and reviews
With more than 500 reviews, the Wacaco Minipresso GR has an overall 4.1/5-star rating, with 64% of all reviews giving a 5-star rating. Specific feature ratings are also included:
- Easy to use: 4.2/5 stars
- Easy to clean: 4.0/5 stars
- Durability: 3.7/5 stars
The main issues the customers report are that the product begins leaking after relatively little usage. Most reported their issues starting within a few months. The other main complaint is that the shot pulled is small and not as hot as they would like, even when using boiling water.
Other than that, reviews were generally positive, with reviewers praising its ease of use and portability. They cautioned against tamping the grinds into the basket since that could cause an excess of pressure that may break the machine.
Reviewers rated the quality of the espresso highly for a portable espresso maker, noting that while it might not compare to espresso from a regular espresso machine, the flavor and body of the shot was impressive for such a compact, inexpensive device.
Final Verdict
The Wacaco Minipresso GR is a great manual espresso maker to take with you on the road if you need an ultra lightweight and compact option. With the reported issues around leaks and seals no longer working after relatively little use, we recommend fully investigating your warranty before purchase.
Wacaco reports a high level of counterfeit and unauthorized sellers, so it’s especially important to make sure you’re buying from an authorized seller with a warranty. If you don’t, you will not be eligible for customer service or replacement parts.
Most purchasers are happy with their Minipresso, however, and the customers reporting issues are a relatively small number. With additional accessories sold separately to help you create your perfect coffee experience, the Minipresso is one of your most versatile options in portable espresso makers. For the frequent traveler or camper, we recommend this as a solid option to meet your espresso needs.