If you’re new here, I spend a lot of time with coffee machines. I currently have three in my kitchen that I am testing, and a couple more waiting in boxes. So, safe to say, I know a thing or two about what makes the best espresso machines. But, until recently, I’d never actually tried a Sage appliance. Obviously, that had to be rectified, so Sage’s Barista Pro machine was up first.
Now, full disclosure: I am still not 100% sure on the exact difference between Sage and Breville across different markets (there are different brands with the same name), but what I do know is that they both make top-of-the-line coffee machines. The Barista Pro, in particular, I’ve heard, is easy to use, technically advanced, and makes great coffee.
So, did it live up to the reputation? Sage’s Barista Pro is the epitome of a quality semi-automatic bean-to-cup espresso machine. There’s a built-in grinder, customizable settings, a steaming wand, and its sleek design looks fabulous on your counter (that matters). But is it the coffee machine for you? Below are all of my thoughts and feelings while testing the Sage Barista Pro Coffee Machine.
Breville
The Barista Pro™
I tested the brushed stainless steel model, but you can also get it in black stainless steel, ‘black truffle’, and a unique Aboriginal Culinary Journey pattern.
Olivia Wolfe has been a design writer for Livingetc since 2024, and has a master’s degree in arts and lifestyle journalism from the University of the Arts London, London College of Communication. Previously, Olivia worked in the coffee industry at multiple cafes, both in London and the United States. During this time, she took training-intensive courses at coffee roasteries where coffee beans are roasted, packed, and shipped. During these trainings, Olivia learned about different types of coffee beans, how region affects flavor, roasting methods, grinding methods for different brews, and the flavor profiles of coffee. Since being at Livingetc, Olivia has tested multiple coffee machines (and currently has four on her kitchen counter).
First Impressions
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My first impressions of the Sage Barista Pro machine smashed it out of the park. Upon opening the box, I found all the necessary coffee machine accessories, as well as a few clever extras, like cleaning supplies and Sage-only gadgets. We’re off to a good start.
Plus, the machine is simply nice to look at — and if you are an interiors-obsessed person (which I assume you are if you’re reading the Livingetc review), the way your coffee machine looks in your coffee nook matters. When my partner first saw the unboxed machine, he described it as “futuristic in a retro 50s way,” and I completely agree; it’s sleek and modern, but still feels timeless, which is what you want from an investment piece.
However, I did notice that it is slightly wider than similar espresso machines and coffee makers, such as the Kitchenaid Semi-Automatic machine (which also happens to be on my counter right now, so an easy comparison). So the amount of space you have is definitely something to consider here.
Testing the Machine
Admittedly, I do have some experience with using espresso machines, so my definition of easy may be slightly skewed. That said, the Sage Barista Pro was easy to use. It comes with an instruction guide (pictures only, though) and a QR code that takes you to an instructional video (which is much more helpful). You have to set up the typical things like the water tank and bean hopper, but after that, it’s smooth sailing.
Truly, using this machine was so streamlined, simple, and it only took a couple of steps to get a cup of coffee. The most interesting element to me was that the grind size setting and extraction speed are adjustable, with a screen clearly displaying your setting choice. You don’t get this often; I’ve only seen it on the De’Longhi La Specialista Touch. And Sage’s instruction video is there to help you find the right setting for your preferences.
After that, and a push of a button, you’re brewing your first espresso shot. And let me tell you, I was impressed. It’s creamy crema layer after creamy crema layer with the Sage Barista Pro. No nonsense or tester shots here!
All that is left is a quick milk steam, and you can enjoy a fabulous latte at your home cafe. Milk steamers can be the trickiest part of learning to use a machine, and while this one has its challenges, I’d still rank it as one of the easier ones to use. The milk came out more consistently silky. So, if you value practicing your milk frothing techniques, then you’ll be in good hands here.
Quality of Coffee
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Every true coffee connoisseur knows that you can have all the flair in the world, but a good cup of coffee is all about the flavor. And after testing, I would confidently say that the Sage Barista Pro brews a tasty cup.
As mentioned, each shot came out with a nearly perfect crema layer, and there are multiple baskets you can swap into your portafilter to cater to the size shot you want and the beans you are using. Pressurized baskets are typically better for pre-ground or less fresh beans, while non-pressurized (or single-wall) baskets work great for machines like this one with integrated grinders, or if you have a coffee grinder already on your counter.
However, making your coffee machine work better and your coffee taste better means being selective about your beans. A good roast will do most of the work for you.
Should You Buy the Sage Barista Pro Espresso Machine?
You get so many supplies and the machine itself looks good on the counter.
(Image credit: Future)
So, is the Sage Barista Pro worth buying? My overall answer would definitely be yes. If streamlined style and a more professional and technical coffee-making experience are what you are after, then the Sage Barista Pro provides. It’s for people who have some experience in the coffee-making world, but want to upgrade their game. It may not be the most artisanal, stylish design, but it’s perfectly sleek and timeless.
However, you do need enough counter space for this machine. It’s not too tall, but it’s definitely slightly wider than similar models. And it’s a semi-automatic machine, so it’s just bigger than something like the De’Longhi Dedica Duo or a coffee pod machine.
Overall, I was thoroughly impressed with this appliance, and dare I say, it may take the cake for my favorite machine so far (I’m sorry, Smeg Cold Brew Machine, I still love you). So, if you are looking to invest in a new espresso machine, you can’t go wrong with this one.
Other Sage Coffee Accessories
Sage
The Bean Keeper Coffee Canister™
Finding the right coffee machine for your home is a journey, and you want to make sure you pick the right one. While I may have fallen for the Sage Barista Pro, is it the right one for your space?
I have plenty more coffee machine reviews where this one came from, so be sure to subscribe to the Livingetc newsletter to stay up-to-date on all things caffeine and coffee-related.
