Ninja AutoBarista Makes 13 Drinks, but Cleanup Is a Dealbreaker

The fully automatic machine uses Ninja’s Grind iQ technology to adjust grind size, weight and dose based on the beans’ size, roast and freshness. Users can also customize shot count, intensity and temperature. The machine makes espresso and drip coffee, froths dairy or plant-based milk, and offers cold brew and cold-pressed espresso settings. Ice is needed for the latter to avoid a lukewarm drink.

The reviewer, who said they do not closely track espresso variables, found the drinks good. The machine rinses itself before and after brewing, but that water collects in a drip tray that can fill after only a few drinks. Although the tray is easy to remove, the reviewer said they had overfilled it and spilled coffee-tinted water on the kitchen floor more than once. The knock box for spent espresso pucks also needs regular attention: leaving it for a few days led to blue mold.

The reviewer said the machine may suit people willing to maintain it and make use of its range of functions. For someone who prefers a large batch of cold brew every other week and a minimal morning routine, the cleaning demands were too much. The AutoBarista combines a drip coffee maker, espresso machine, milk frother, grinder and food scale, but costs $999.99. The reviewer said it was not worth that price if buyers would not use its versatility, and compared it with an OXO Cold Brew Coffee Maker costing six percent as much.