Amazon Australia's Prime Day sale is in full swing, and a standout deal is the Philips Baristina Espresso Machine, now 20 per cent off at $479 (usually $599). This user-friendly bean-to-cup machine promises a tasty brew with minimal effort, using a simple three-step method: automatic grind, tamp, and brew. Shoppers have called it a 'lazy barista's dream machine' due to its straightforward operation and easy cleanup.
Compact Design and Setup
According to 7You's tech expert Sonny Loudon, the Philips Baristina is compact and stylish, making it ideal for small kitchens. Setup is simple: plug in, rinse, fill the water tank and bean grinder, and run a flushing cycle by holding the boost button. A QR code provides a quick start guide.
Coffee Quality and Boost Function
To brew, insert the portafilter, slide it right, and select espresso or lungo. The machine grinds beans directly into the portafilter, then tamps and extracts. Loudon found the standard espresso and lungo options lacking in strength, but recommends using the espresso mode with the boost button for a stronger cup. The lungo remained watery; for a long black, he suggests pulling espresso over hot water from a kettle.
Cleanup and Verdict
The enclosed system keeps the bench clean. Ejecting spent coffee is easy with an ejector button, though Loudon noted occasional need for extra persuasion. A clean cloth is recommended to wipe out residual grounds. The small drip tray surprised him with minimal dripping. For $479, Loudon calls it 'the ultimate steal' for pod users looking to upgrade. Amazon Prime Day runs from July 7 to July 13 for Prime members, with a 30-day free trial available at amazon.com.au/prime.
