As the UK swelters through a heatwave, one tech editor has found relief in Ninja's latest bean-to-cup machine, the Auto Barista. Priced at £899, this fully automated appliance promises to deliver barista-quality iced coffee at the touch of a button, eliminating the need for pricey takeaway drinks.
The machine offers over 13 drink options, including iced lattes, cold brew, and over-ice Americanos. Unlike traditional espresso machines that require hours of cooling to avoid bitterness, the Auto Barista uses a rapid cold extraction method, producing a smooth, full-bodied coffee ready to drink immediately. The editor reported making at least eight iced coffees in four days, praising the machine's ability to grind, tamp, brew, and cold whip milk simultaneously.
One standout feature is the dual hopper system, allowing users to store two types of beans and switch between them without cleaning. The GrindIQ technology automatically adjusts grind settings as beans age, using AI-like monitoring of extraction pressure. However, switching between roast types requires a full calibration, which consumes significant water and beans—a minor drawback noted by the tester.
The machine's self-rinsing feature, while ensuring cleanliness, also demands frequent refilling of the water tank (every two days) and emptying of the drip tray. On the plus side, a built-in water hardness test helps minimise limescale buildup. For comparison, Sage's Barista Touch Impress offers similar cold extraction at £1,199 and comes in more colour options.
Despite the high price and resource usage, the editor concludes that the Ninja Auto Barista is a worthwhile investment for iced coffee lovers, effectively replacing a personal barista during the hot weather.
