The Best Portable Espresso Machine - A Ridiculous London Day Out

[@svenleeuwen]

Props to the sound engineers pulling this off with such crisp clear sound.

[@NanneWielinga]

Props to this entire video. Seems very hard to shoot, especially with dialog and timing.

[@pear7777]

@@NanneWielinga lol, yeah timing the filming of the pumping from the other cable car.🙃

[@John-gw3mj]

I came down to the comments to say the same thing. The sound on this is INCREDIBLE considering the locations!

[@nickflesher7608]

i was thinking the same thing!

[@JoshLiechty]

To get this kind of audio quality on a moving, open-top bus - I am in awe!

[@RyanShyffer]

I love how when James is wresting with the machine on the bus, multiple coffee shops appear in the background.. almost mocking him and his struggle.

[@StarkRG]

Yeah, but they're not on a bus. Clearly the solution is to open tiny cafes on all the buses.

[@ThisIsWideAngle]

@@StarkRG i hate riding the bus. Having an expresso is always nice, but riding the bus would still suck up all the joy out of it.

[@gt123451000]

@@StarkRG As a bus driver, i would too be very happy with this

[@qwertyTRiG]

@@StarkRG I was once imagining small coffee shops on double-decker trams. I see no reason why it shouldn't work.

[@jayschafer1760]

​@@qwertyTRiGDuring the Berlin Airlift the authorities hired attractive German women to drive snack & coffee vans right up to the planes, so that the pilots could get their caffeine & sugar hits while the plane was being loaded and unloaded, and then immediately be on their way again. Not that far from a cafe on a tram.

[@edwardmking]

This is possibly the most “James Hoffman” video yet. It’s quirky, it’s fun. It’s awkward in a charming way. There’s an appreciation for quality and nuance of really good coffee but strikingly devoid of pretense (I mean, see-saw espresso brewing on a double-decker?) James is not only a coffee expert and good chap, but he’s also continually topping himself as a great film maker. Hats off!

[@adamarchie]

He's undoubtedly one of the best communicators on the Internet.

[@bl4841]

hes really fun to watch. I mostly just watch his videos because they are entertaining, not that im obsessed with coffee. Im a casual drinker

[@zkylearnstherope]

@Ted King why did my mind read that first paragraph in James' voice?? 😅

[@johni-db4xv]

Following in the great tradition of British presenters!

[@judylloyd7901]

@@zkylearnstherope James' voice 😁

[@richardcervi5446]

Congratulations to James for bucking up and making it through an entire day without a scale.

[@noobulon4334]

The scale was just off screen im sure

[@Crypto2638]

He just hide it I suppose 🤣

[@scod3908]

This video needed to end with James trying to explain his baggy of grounds and his little scale to the plod

[@Daniel-dj7fh]

You are not believing that he didn't at the very least preweigh the grounds and partition them in little bags or something or? haha

[@blakksheep736]

​@@Daniel-dj7fh oh they most likely did, but at least we have proof that James doesn't use the scale as an emotional support tool.

[@GnarlotheGnakedGnome]

The placement of the Flair at 18:13 is a work of art, sir :)

[@theinnocent_one]

This is at 69 likes.

[@theinnocent_one]

Some idiot changed this to 70 likes.

[@MagentaRoseRed]

@@theinnocent_one alas the comment was too good for it to stay that way.

[@julianshepherd2038]

Just james hanging out

[@markm0000]

@@julianshepherd2038 Making me jealous and blush.

[@trumpetisjazz]

James Hoffman… showing us content we didn’t even know we wanted ☕️

[@nyleah411]

YES!🙈😂

[@fossil98]

Ikr. More floorpressos

[@SaxonSuccess]

I don't want it.

[@johnmackay7789]

👏👏👌👌

[@ShoxDr]

passes the 5 mins while the espresso machine warms up ;-)

[@magnusbokarlsson]

Production value is insane. They coordinated a camera crew in a cable car going the opposite way for a 1sec insert shot 🤯

[@mkoldewijn]

That might be just a follower on Twitter or something.

[@CydeWeys]

I think that was a rando whose footage they found posted online.

[@ahilollevas]

Or the ride in those cable cars is quite short and need a few trips to shoot the segment

[@WhiffenC]

I didn't see him in that other cable car

[@SusanIvanova2257]

@@ahilollevas spot on. That looks like the cable car at the O2 arena to me. It's been a few years since I've been to London but if memory serves its 5-10 minutes for a trip and costs 5£ or so that can be paid by oyster card. Highly recommend if you want a nice view from above the Thames but don't feel like the time and expense of a London eye ride is worth it to you.

[@zeezicht6404]

now i want a calendar with James Hoffman lying like he does here and a different coffeemaker with him each month

[@MonicaKM111]

have you noticed the placement?......... uhm... intentional? o.O

[@mephitstophilis]

@@MonicaKM111 Goddamnit, I hadn't noticed that on either of my previous watch-throughs and now I can't unsee that! 😆

[@EloiseAnsell]

@@MonicaKM111 I was thinking same 😂

[@sm3296]

It’s such a Burt Reynolds’s pose. But better.

[@karikalahari]

Best. Thumbnail. Ever.

[@jonathanglenister1652]

the "I've got a bus!" reveal is priceless. This is James at his very best, it's hugely entertaining to see him having so much fun.

[@christmas83]

I'm usually entertained, but that is the new peak moment and I can't wait for the Hames Joffman cut

[@ifyouloveChristyouwillobeyhim]

He popped up SO FAST XD

[@wolffdogs1]

Absolutely! I laughed out loud several times.

[@odw32]

I've been kicked from a bus for sipping out of a leak-proof travel cup, and James is just casually using an espresso brewer.

[@alalalala57]

What a miserable bus.

[@kamo7293]

what a weird reason to be kicked off tbh

[@TC-th1ey]

The secret is the camera and sound people. I think having someone filming you carries as much weight as a clipboard or ladder and high Vis vest.

[@ArsenicApplejuice]

Late to this party but, James probably has a permit and was the only one on that bus.

[@wevved]

Was it the bus driver's travel cup?

[@bradenb]

While watching this with my daughter, my wife walked in when you were laying in the field of flowers and my daughter turned to my wife and said “this is a movie about coffee that turned into a human.”

[@leeobrien4661]

This is awesome

[@ajz2k]

Bless all children

[@BBB_025]

This is the most amazing thing I have heard in a long time. It also seems entirely plausible that This channel is about the coffee that turned into a human.

[@MarkEichin]

Would that make The World Atlas of Coffee... an autobiography?

[@BBB_025]

@@MarkEichin maybe a family album🤔

[@AdeMagnaye]

"Coffee sneeze" James has a way with words, as always.

[@coffeebikemoviejoke]

James is making his slow, steady transformation to being the Mr. Rogers of coffee. I. Am. Here. For. It.

[@vitamenecavit]

This would not have occurred to me at all, but upon reading it... yes, 100% (or, to say it with the words of the internet: "Why Would You Say Something So Controversial Yet So Brave"

[@Reksrat]

Feels like a fitting end game

[@RobinsonRDavid]

I’ve said this many times, the latest of which was just this morning when I was raving to my wife about JH over morning coffee and her disinterested gaze.

[@frederickfrei8286]

I have never laughed so harder, watching this video. From the " coffee sneeze " to the hand brush of the flowers. The one that got me rolling on the floor is the sky ride pumping away!!!! I just died.

[@wackywixted]

Sounds like you missed James' "Bripe" video. I was legitimately howling with laughter

[@pistachoo.]

@@wackywixted That was my INTRO to James videos! LMAO!

[@TC-th1ey]

I think if you use the pump in public and maintain eye contact with anyone you'll end up on a register.

[@barskuleli8612]

I am an airliner pilot and since couple of months i am using Picopresso. It is really very good for long layovers and long flights, hotel rooms even long waitings between flights. Very compact and very easy to carry and cleaning. And its espresso is i can say very satisfactory especially if your water is hot enough. I only changed the basket with an IMS basket which is not so expensive. Thanks for the video…

[@l.revisited5933]

I carried a Nanopresso everywhere for almost a year. The weirdest looks probably came when I brewed some coffee, half-drunk, inside a regular city bus...

[@tiffanybell-horwath934]

How did it hold up for you? We've had ours since August and it seems to not be holding up so well

[@lagunovmike]

@@tiffanybell-horwath934 (not the OP) I have been using my nanopresso for the last 3 years while backpacking. No major issues so far, but after about a year pumping system wasn't generating pressure at all. Simple disassembly and assembly solved it and now it works as great as it should. Thinking of getting a Pico, but it is also more demanding for grind quality, so handgrinder upgrade is also needed

[@l.revisited5933]

​@@tiffanybell-horwath934 Well, I used it on a heavy basis for months... at least once a day, everyday. Then suddenly I started having problems with building up pressure. I only managed to solve this problem by cleaning it thoroughly and pumping it with clean, hot water once in a while. Since then, it has worked flawlessly whenever I used it, but I decided not to have it as my "daily driver". Try and "reset" yours, give it some time to rest and see if it helps.

[@radicalpaddyo]

Looks of jealousy and admiration no doubt

[@darkpatches]

@@l.revisited5933 Re the several questions of durability. I have a Nanopresso and only use it at home. Taking up no counter space is a win for me. I've used it hundreds of times (at least 300 maybe 400) since I got it (when it first came out). No problems. Very rarely, the little black circular gasket inside the brewer starts to slip out. I just push it back in; but I'm afraid I won't notice and I'll lose it. I do a hot water/vinegar flush to clean it about every 6 months. Works like a champ. I love it.

[@dpops2312]

That conclusion and the placement of the flair just tipped me over the edge 😂

[@petervansan1054]

/r/heknew

[@danielsw]

James showing off his flair.

[@yusux]

James “the flair” Hoffman

[@khirek5335]

Bruh I didn't even realise that💀💀

[@danielsoukup5734]

This entire video was nothing short of absolutely delightful. I am now going to go somewhere stupid and brew espresso.

[@raphaelteboul1947]

I have an older version of this picopresso (the minipresso). Coffee isn’t amazing with it but I’m absolutely crazy about it. I hike a lot and I have made espressos on top of mountains or in really remote places and it really hits differently when you’re soaked or frozen to have a nice espresso!

[@djsammyfresh787]

James, not sure if you will ever see this, but I just want to say that your content never fails to make me happy. I absolutely love every minute of each of the videos that you release. Your dedication to creating content for this niche (though increasingly not as niche I feel, which is awesome) community is amazing and I am incredibly grateful for the many laughs and hours of entertainment you have provided for us. Thank you.

[@bendao8909]

I use my picopresso daily at work, make it in a hospital and get lots of weird looks. It's fantastic. They're coming out with a pressure gauge attachment apparently in the next few months. It really is hard to beat

[@UncleSkiBum]

I had the original version of this the mini presso which could only take 5g coffee so was a bit rubbish glad to see they have improved this and Picopresso looks sweet.

[@VoicelessScream]

Agreed! Using mine at work as well (for those in the Office days!) and it can produce a wonderful shot. I'm having a bit of a hard time dialing it in however. Seeing how James went for 15g I think that might be the issue (I went for 18g in all my attempts). Less is more I guess :)

[@peterpiper6707]

I love it as well but it is so damn inconsistent, changing beans and working out grind fineness is a nightmare!

[@maccompatible]

I keep seeing people talking about the pressure gauge but never see a primary source. How do we know?

[@bendao8909]

@@UncleSkiBum that was also a pressurized basket. This is a real deal unpressurized espresso machine

[@JoshMeek]

For me, the selling point of 'portable' espresso makers isn't their portability, but that they are a (relatively) cheaper entry point into the world of espresso. My Flair Signature has yet to leave my coffee bar.

[@SwordOfSephiroth]

I agreed, I am still using my Rok after all these years.

[@alexPsanz]

Plus being able to put it away when not using i

[@Spiun666]

@@SkeleTonHammer Less things that can go wrong too. No motors, no heating elements or boilers, no PIDs yet you can control temperature (with some effort), no flow profilers yet you can control flow...

[@marley7145]

Maybe you and your Flair Signature should leave your coffee bar and go somewhere fun. Let people watch you make espresso and wonder if you're mad or brilliant or both.

[@mahfudzk]

true, as someone who doesn't have thousands of watts in their house, having electric espresso machine is out of question.

[@Mr_Blootered]

I reckon the Nomad would be perfect for something like a VW campervan - or tenting with a table or suchlike.

[@jacobkamphaus5565]

So i own a vanagon and am considering the nomad actually...though Id want to see if mods to the aeropress like a joepresso or prismo (with a paper filter to negate channeling on the puck) would pass the test.

[@123marijn321]

@@jacobkamphaus5565 they can’t reach the pressure for true espresso

[@jacobkamphaus5565]

@@123marijn321 couldnt you mod that with a lever and/or a narrower valve?

[@owenhu9465]

@@jacobkamphaus5565 Definitely. You can also buy individual "drawers" (portafilters), so you can pull 2 back-to-back shots, and just toss the drawers in a bag to clean up later. Despite what James said about the water tank, it actually is one of the best manual espresso makers in terms of thermal stability. The water tank is lined with plastic so it does not lose much heat at all, and it's extremely easy to preheat (much easier than a Flair or Cafelat Robot). And I can guarantee you that it'll make a much better espresso than an aeropress ever can.

[@nichj487]

@@jacobkamphaus5565 James has discussed this in another vid. Because of the width of the brew chamber, it’s basically impossible to create enough pressure to make espresso. In order to mod it successfully for spro, you’d need to turn it into a completely different device.

[@longshotvisuals2252]

I own the Picopresso. It is brilliant. The instructions do recommend pre-heating the chamber and discarding the water before pulling a shot. So far not a hint of a worry around longevity

[@DNGR369]

Doing the brew in-hand is just too good. It's like pouring a beer into a glass vibes. That with the medium to good cup quality means a clear winner to me

[@davidfodre1375]

@@DNGR369 Is it good enough as your only brewer though?

[@valerieannemonge243]

How it is now

[@jamesward408]

I'm replying to an old thread here, but I bought a Picopresso in July 2021, using it daily and it's still going strong, so this thing seems pretty robust!

[@mdogg95]

I think the Nomad would be great in a car camping scenario. Generally I am carrying enough water to use some of it as dish water, and I could clean up after my espresso making quite easily.

[@AnatolBogun]

I've had the Picopresso for about 4 months now. It took me a while to dial it in and get the workflow right. I use it in my coworking space most days and also took it on a hike, the results are incredibly consistent. I did some test runs at home with a scale to know how many times I need to pump to get to my target output, for me that's 10 for preinfusion and 20 more to get ~34g out. I'm using 17g and a puck screen. Without puck screen I'd use 18g. It's worth noting that you absolutely need a capable espresso focused hand grinder (1ZPresso JE-Plus in my case). I tried with a pour-over focussed hand grinder (1ZPresso JX) but all you'll get is battery acid. So, if you don't already have a hand grinder for espresso, that will likely more than double the cost. Also, especially for several shots back to back, the Picopresso body gets very hot, so you may want to get some form of sleeve. I cut a bamboo sushi rolling mat to size, removed a couple of bamboo sticks and tied up the ends, it fits perfectly around the Picopresso and it still fits into the carry case. Taking it to weird places, for really boiling water you can always get a mini camping kettle/pot stove, mine holds ~500ml (also enough for two Aeropress cups) and can run on solid methanol fuel tablets or other solid fuels. It's a similar size as the Picopresso and very light. To speed up the boiling time bring hot water in a thermos. It's kind of weird pulling out a hand grinder and espresso maker on a mountain or a beach, but these are also some of the most memorable shots I ever had, and somehow that environment makes them taste even better. It's also a cheaper entry point to espresso, just be prepared that it's a steep learning curve, so don't give up easily. If it doesn't taste good and you're inexperienced, it's probably you (or the grinder) that's to blame.

[@Deathtaxesandrussell]

Thank you so much, legit the comment I was looking for

[@JORGIVAN]

What is your grind setting on the JE?

[@AnatolBogun]

​@@JORGIVAN On the JE-Plus, about 2 full turns and 6 full numbers (not clicks) from the absolute zero point (with 17g). But it really depends on the beans, and a longer preinfusion time seems to work better with a _slightly_ coarser grind. I usually preinfuse 10 seconds as per manual, but have tried 20+ seconds as well. A good way to find a good dial in base on the Picopresso I think is to find the point where it's basically stalling, i.e. where it almost blocks and not much coffee comes out, so find that point, and next time grind a little bit coarser. Once you dialled it in correctly it's pretty consistent in my experience.

[@JORGIVAN]

Thanks so much! I'll try like that today and adjust if necesseary ☕️

[@erikcook5317]

It is so fun to make an espresso at your desk and have your coworkers look at you and say they need one of those. I am a 911 operator so getting up to get coffee while at work isn’t really an option. I have the nanopresso which I bought a couple years ago based off of James review. He actually seemed to like that one more than the pico. Which I was disheartened to see. I love my nano but am thinking of getting the pico.

[@JacobHamPhD]

“The whole pumping in pubic thing makes you feel super self-conscious”!!!! Oh, this was such a fun day out and about with James.

[@ninjaswordtothehead]

Yeah, it would. Even in public.

[@helenspam5959]

Make eye contact with people while pumping in public. Less suspicious.

[@RudigerVT]

Whenever I am describing the Handpresso, and start to demonstrate the, er, action, well....

[@omi6816]

"If you own one of this things, take it somewhere stupid" that's the best marketing line for any portable espresso machine on the video. I own 3 of those, and yes, i got a crowd around me with the handpresso XD (with the other two i usually use them on places like an hotel room). BTW i truly love the nomad and the folks at uniterra are so into actual coffee science. So glad they actually got some kind of a shout from you.

[@rubensoeteman]

So the Pico is the only one you don't own I assume..? I have both the Flair and Pico at home.

[@chrisrebel7792]

I got the picopresso clearly for making good coffee at work (we have only these coin-insert machines which are disgusting). I can say picopresso has changed mywhole work experience. I also got it once for camping and a couple of times hiking and at hotel room. Honestly, I love picopresso. I have ordered a better basket now anf waiting for it. really excited

[@gwynethsoria8807]

where'd you buy a better basket :0

[@zqzj]

Any improvement with the basket?

[@cindynichols27]

I'd love know about the better basket.

[@FabulousResults]

The Flair excels if you're the kind of person who travels often to places where you'll have modern conveniences and you love espresso. I can pack it up with a hand grinder and bring it to a beach house for the weekend with no problem. It's not bulky enough to be obnoxious, and it's a fun curiosity with good build quality that doesn't break the bank. My friends and family love it whenever I show them how it works.

[@thijsvandervoort8261]

The vibe of this video is just glorious, I love it. Also how did you get that footage on someone filming you pumping from a different cablecar?

[@Bubreherro]

Thank you for asking the *real* questions here

[@colinmt1980]

​18:11 This final scene shows just how unportable the Flair really is... that lever is clearly too long for a quick & easy outside anything! James, please tell me that final shot composition was no accident!? 😳🤣

[@iangrissett9203]

Just about killed me

[@nattyphysicist]

🍌

[@danims7329]

In that last shot the Flair's lever looks, for some cryptic reason, particularly eye-catching.

[@StanleyBraganza]

At least he kept his beans out of the shot 😅😅😅

[@TexelGuy]

Hmm.

[@Boyetto-san]

I think the difference with brewers like the Nomad and the Flair is that they're not actually portable, but really more "trans-portable". You can conveniently take them with you to somewhere that won't have an espresso machine, but not exactly something you could just use out of the blue in the middle of nowhere.

[@buythedip5354]

The perfect compromise for glamping!

[@rfdc]

I couldn't have said it better

[@trmtnzr]

Yeah, mine lives in my california bus.. perfect espresso maker in such setup!

[@rubensoeteman]

Having both the Pico, Nano and Flair I completely agree!

[@armadillito]

Like a really fat “desktop replacement” laptop

[@SpencerRedcorn]

I love the video and how this channel has evolved! I have a flair Neo and I already took it somewhere stupid. My love of coffee has turned into full hobby. I’m a nurse in a large ICU and I am the Weird Coffee Person. I started with a portable/collapsible pour over, then I graduated to an aero press, and finally my Flair Neo made its way into the break room at work. When I have the time, it is a strange and amazing feeling to make a shot of espresso at work. Sadly I am pre-grinding my coffee but I am searching for an old espresso grinder to shine up and take in to the break room.

[@blakksheep736]

I like this comment.

[@hught7336]

I enjoyed the coffee from my handpresso for some 5 years. With aggressive tamping and filling to the brim the results are much improved, and good for an "almost" espresso on the fly. About a year ago it failed and I am a bit disappointed to have no way to get the parts to repair it, but feel an upgrade is due and the pico appears to be thw best option. Also, it is less likely to cause the pre flight security scanner attendant to call their manager to discuss whether it was allowed in hand luggage or might constituted a weapon given its club like proportions!

[@Sepiaischeating]

I also have a handpresso and have used it for 6 years now. It still works great and like you said if you get a heavy tamp and can consistently reproduce it, it's great. You get a nice puck that pops out and the basket is easy to clean in a small cup water. If I upgrade I may consider the picopresso but I was put off the nanopresso for the same reason James gave that it seemed a little plasticy and would probably break.

[@crefmag]

I carry mine in a Glock handgun case. It's the ESE only version and I find it really convenient to use and keep clean. I've never had a problem taking it through an airport

[@io8574]

I have one too, took it all around Europe, worked perfectly for 6 months. You do have to figure out how to use it though, takes 4-5 goes before you get the hang of it. Also the standard drip head is crap, you need the strong head. Also needs a proper tamper that they sell as an accessory. There is a bit of effort involved and i often pump it against a wall (lol). It failed after a year (seal went) but Handpresso were great, sent me out a free replacement and extra seals. It’s built like a tank with very little plastic involved. Biggest negative is that brewing for a couple, you really need spare basket lined up pre-tamped, otherwise you’ll be drinking solo as it cools down quickly.

[@RudigerVT]

I've had 3 Handpresso rigs over more than a decade. If you want to get the best result that's convenient, then use the ESE pods. But not Iily. My favorite are from Chris Coffee in Albany, NY. But the reason I like it so much is that you don't have to mess around with coffee grounds going all over the place.

[@ThisIsCoRn]

"what is he doing..." That reaction shot was perfect. Never change, James.

[@nathanbimrose7574]

This sort of ludic madness continues to reinforce the precise reason why I love this channel. Also, why don’t more therapists tell people to challenge themselves to brew espresso in peculiar places?

[@jamesklarevas5091]

I'm dissapointed in the noticeable lack of briping for contrast (where the bripe is clearly the pinnacle of non-espresso portability).

[@TheJonMead]

We need more bripe content ASAP

[@rikmcrae]

Agree. Bring back the bripe.

[@burgerbeatz6293]

I came for this comment and I haven't been disappointed

[@mjlykos7793]

This may be one of my favourite videos. It's like therapy. James's joy is infectious. I feel lighter and healthier for having seen it!

[@KrishnenduKes]

Coffee and audio are 2 important things in filmmaking. And we all know how good James is at both!

[@arturskovrigo3915]

If someone even a year ago would have told me that a comedy-coffee youtube channel would become my favourite channel of all, I would not believe them in a million years. (I started drinking coffee because of this guy)

[@WujiErTaiji]

I'm not sure that this is the right definition for this channel in my opinion. It's a coffee channel that has entertaining content. At least I don't think James does this as a comedy project.

[@1Caja]

@@WujiErTaiji maybe he thought he was on Hames Joffmanns channel 🤔

[@thesquirmingcoil1]

I think of this channel as more... coffee-comedy.

[@baka16649]

And I am becoming a coffee nerd because of him as well…

[@simoncurran6184]

Comedy?

[@purepepsii]

"I think for this shot, we'll run naked" James Hoffmann - May 2022

[@TheSourceOfEvil]

"so you can see the sort of most beautiful version of this thing"

[@JC-fj7oo]

It seems like there are 4 levels of portability: 1: Backpacking up Everest. You're bringing the lightest possible thing, probably an aeropress or instant coffee. 2: Day hiking around trails or around town: Picopresso. It just seems to work and it's small enough to fit in a backpack with a hand grinder and thermos. 3: Regular camping, hotel rooms, parties, offices, events and anywhere with a table and a sink: The flair is awesome. They are really getting popular with renaissance fairs and popup coffee stands and you can just go anywhere with a table and water and make real espresso. 4: home and coffee shop: It's just not going anywhere ever, so buy a real espresso machine. Whether it's the flair or an olympia cremina or whatever floats your boat.

[@Eliashevah]

Ahh, the James Hoffmann that made the Bripe make sense, for a minute, is back! Kudos for making the fussy, fun and the complex, culpable.

[@beefydandyman6313]

The videos are evolving into a full-blown "travel and coffee" in style and quality and I'm here for it

[@nachoote260]

Alternative title: 2nd best way to make coffee outdoors after the Bripe.

[@andrewfuller3685]

We truly live in an age of exceptional coffee content. People like Lance Hedrick doing the hard science. Sprometheus there with the practical, accessible, Everyman reviews. James doing both those things plus some surprising, high production stuff likes this. And lots of other channels on the rise. Fun times.

[@neemaaskari6633]

I've had the picopresso for a couple of months now. Took me a while to dial in the grind/grams/speed of pumping...but now I'm pulling (pumping?) some great espresso shots with this little thing. It blows my mind that I can get such good espresso for so cheap. Bravo Picopresso for bringing espresso home

[@RobThomasBouchard]

I’ve had the same experience as well- it really is an impressive machine. What coffee/water ratio have you settled on?

[@uEffects123]

it actually is quite expressive, you can get a used gaggia for under 100€ that produces solid espresso. I had the minipresso before, it is fun but also a lot of work with preheating etc, especially if you're doing multiple shots.

[@thedutchdjentleman]

You got the recommendation from Malyan?

[@byrondio]

@@uEffects123you can’t take the Gaggia to the park though

[@juliancooney68]

May I ask what grind setting and grams you use.

[@catalinawinemixer8743]

I bought the Pico based on this video. I would love to see your thoughts on Vietnamese pour over/drip (Phin filter). Love how portable it is, intrigued on how you would tackle it.

[@bradsimon5103]

The Nomad is fabulous for camping. I built a holder for it that raises it enough for a scale to fit under the cup. It holds heat very well. Super impressed. It can be a little messy with clean up given the parts but after a couple times i developed a east system so it doesn’t make a mess and is east to clean.

[@jakubpodesva9802]

Imagine this'd happen in real world - sitting in the bus and the guy next to you taking of some ridiculous machine like Nomad one, grinding and making espresso :D It is very much like Mr. Bean making fresh sandwich in park weirdness. And it is funny and interesting and simply lovely content, thank you James! :)

[@capsel22]

and boiling water on a seat with a camping flame lol

[@jakubpodesva9802]

@@capsel22 Yes! :D

[@nmilb1234]

Considering this was shot outside, the sound is extremely well done! Wow

[@laputa1943]

The idea of this shot is genius.

[@supra107]

That's the magic of modern microphone and sound processing technology for ya.

[@spamcan9208]

@@supra107 It's nothing new to record quality sound outside lol. Windscreens have been around forever.

[@caljcam]

The handpresso works best if you over fill the basket. 5g in tamp, then another 3 or 4 in and tamp again. It let's you actually build enough resistance and gets a nicer dose for the amount of water you need to use. Because the puck is so vertical and because I overdose the basket it's insanely sensitive to grind size and you're right on the limit of choking every shot. It's a fiddly device and I much prefer the wacaco, but you can definitely struggle your way to a decent single from a handpresso.

[@EstrafaDC]

Yeah, I agree. I just left a comment about using it back in 2010 to great effect.

[@smorg12]

I have had a handpresso for 5 years and can confirm. You can also get the intense portafilter but its a bit crap. You need to pre-heat it with hot water too, I've taken mine to Mexico and Spain :)

[@omi6816]

This is true, but I stopped using it once i got the nomad which i stopped using once i got the "minipresso", the nomad makes better coffee than the minipresso, but is a mess to clean, the picopresso is a massive update. I'd say quality of coffee still goes to the nomad, pico is easier to clean and the handpresso is only fair to compare against something like the minipresso.

[@LairdDavidson]

I bought a third party funnel and tamper for the Handpresso which made it easier to fully load the basket and tamp it down. Never had any channeling issues, I don't know what's James did there. I also found that the "intense" filter gives a better shot. Admittedly it's not great espresso but it's not too bad and I can even get a small amount of crema

[@autoexec5367]

nice

[@eda7875]

Throw in 9~10 grams in the handpresso basket. It is a bit of a pain to get that much in since you have to lightly tamp midway. But it works and you get a good shot with crema. Your 5gram shot was clearly under-extracted. I have the original so I have lots of experience with it lol. It is also well built since it is over 10 years old and still going. I take it camping. I will eventually get the flair 2 pro though, because I have a full kitchen in my small teardrop camper and a espresso electric grinder, battery and a solar panel. So it makes more sense for me to carry the flair, or robot.

[@vanbourne_adventurers]

Absolutely love everything about this video and it has inspired me to get my flair a carry case and start taking it to strange places to brew espresso. I think I am going to have some fun with it (as soon as Comandante release the new travel grinder)

[@philliptrzcinski5243]

I love the little smiles at every transition shot, because you know that you're doing something a little bit silly

[@davidbevin5513]

We bought a Picopresso for family holidays recently and loved it. Agree about the basket needing an upgrade (and the pointless brush)but I thought the build quality was great. The thread for the water cover was fiddly though. My engineer brain marvelled at how everything fits. Love the Pico.

[@Harmonikdiskorde]

Finally, portafilters that are actually portable. I've always thought the name was deceptive advertising.

[@aaronr2091]

“Take it somewhere stupid.” One of the most entertaining YT videos I’ve seen in awhile, regardless of the subject. I own the picopresso, but still prefer exploring local coffee shops when I’m on the road.

[@TrebleWing]

I like the idea of the nomad for traveling, where you'd be in hotels or a friend's house.

[@ethanmeginnes80]

I have owned the Handpresso and currently own the Flair. With practice, as others have mentioned, one can do better than shown with the Handpresso. When I owned one they said not to tamp. I did get to the point where I got consistent decent pucks. Like others said, grind was crucial and had to be very precise. This all got me through Peru for a couple of weeks and through many car camping trips. At this time though, the end result is that this video is right that it is inferior to what is out now. It also had some durability issues and that is the main reason I no longer have one. Seals were not sold by Handpresso so you had to source elsewhere when they inevitably failed. The pressure switch broke off as it was plastic. A screw worked as a replacement. Finally, even with fresh seals, I could no longer get a proper seal. The Flair is great because, as others have also mentioned, it makes better espresso than most coffee shops. Yes, you are probably not going to take it backpacking or such. However, I use it for van camping 90 days a year and it is fantastic. Yes, I have even used it on the “floor” many times. In fact, this channel is what ultimately made me purchase one and then further recommend it to friends. The Wacoco does peak my interest but the Flair is nearly failure free. That is a priority when in the middle of nowhere seeking a moment of comfort.

[@Dave435l]

Same here, the Flair is an amazing addition to our camping setup, we use a pop up camper and can mount the stove on the outside

[@dadegroot]

I had multiple handles on the handpresso pump fail on me over the years (before changing to the Flair). I ended up turning a replacement handle from nylon on the lathe at one point. Flair though is definitely a massive improvement and works well.

[@NolanO]

I own a flair signature and it works swimmingly. Able to pull good shots constantly with other tools at my disposal.

[@bobmarley2140]

I used to think these portable espresso things were cool but then i realised if I'm somewhere without electricity and i pull this out to make an espresso then I'm probably a person others don't want to be around for very long.

[@ThinkBeyondTheBox]

The picopresso: for true backpacking trips and backcountry camping. The nomad: for the more casual camping trip The flair: for your cabin or campervan vacations The handpresso: for your enemies [edited - gracias dlevi67)

[@coffeevie]

I’m just going to start walking around my city with my Cafelat Robot in a stroller like the perfect espresso making child it is. That’s technically “portable” right?

[@adamwalker5817]

I remember in his Nespresso Virtuo video someone said James Hoffman had strong “mad scientist” vibes. “I GOT A BUS!” is a continuation of this energy. Thank you, James. A wonderful video filled with interesting analysis and genuinely brilliant humour.

[@philipbaltazar9220]

Was really hoping the staresso would have been included in this since I think it's definitely worth mentioning in the realm of portable espresso. I've gotten some decent results with it so if your ever get the opportunity, please let us know what you think about it! :)

[@ashleykilgour1903]

I can help but think a £5 french press would make a better black coffee.

[@frederickhumphrey8942]

I own a Flair Pro 2, I have never brewed with it outside mainly cause I do not have a outdoor gas burner. However I will say it has given me Espressos better than 90% of the cafes I have visited over the past 2-3 years. Worth it, and if you do travel between Home and somewhere else regularly. It is perfect for you. I will add, you do not even need hot water, if you have access to ice (difficult if you are hiking, I know) a cold turbo espresso shot is usually really delicious.

[@scoobtoober2975]

How do you do that? What is that. Please describe. i think I need to do one.

[@frederickhumphrey8942]

@@scoobtoober2975 take the coffee a tad finer, do 1 bar until it comes through, go up to 9 bars, push it through over ice, I add a lil water as well to do a sort of 4oz drink. Works well if you like light roasts and don't mind something a tad sour.

[@frederickhumphrey8942]

@@scoobtoober2975 its called turbo cause its super fast. So you probably won't have accuracy

[@madelinehelwig8409]

SAME. Highly recommend. We have one simply as a cheap alternative to an expensive electric espresso maker and I am frequently disappointed by coffee shop lattes now that I've gotten good with the flaire. A good hand grinder is also a must.

[@duyman8198]

I mean yeah sure. Flair is the closest to real espresso. Other than the thermo issue, it is pretty flawless. Probably the cheapest way to get real espresso

[@Sirfuzzylip]

I wish there was a shake weight portable espresso maker. Think of the wonderful experiences you can have making espresso in public places not looking weird at all

[@Jeeves72]

Mm, and no cup required!

[@notsureigaf]

8:33 maybe the single greatest moment ever filmed on this channel

[@bikergirl2000]

Currently training as a coach driver, and wondering how to make good coffee on the road. Valuable information... and hilarious to boot!

[@ryanowen8167]

Unfortunate positioning of the flare in the summary. Had a good chuckle.

[@warrenstanford7240]

Woman on passing cable car “What’s he doing ?” as James pumps furiously, so funny. 🤣👍

[@jameshaulenbeek5931]

"Take it somewhere stupid!" I saved a camping trip once with finely ground coffee (espresso to Turkish grind) and a very fine mesh tea strainer. Not quite like anything else, added smoke from the fire, everyone was very grateful for the wonderful elixer it produced.

[@Merfunk]

Whispery studio James: Outdoor voice James can’t hurt you, he doesn’t exist. Outdoor James: I’VE GOT A BUS! One of my favorite 3 seconds of a KZbin video ever. Keep ‘em coming James, makes us happy to see you having fun with your videos, and trying new filmmaking styles!

[@danieljohnson6370]

Agreed! I watched it 3x in a row for that shot alone

[@gunadz]

I’ve got a sneaking suspicion that James is also, in fact, a bit of a transit nerd.

[@IanSantopietro]

I adore excited James shouting "I've got a bus!" more than I ever expected to

[@JHEALY2410]

Such a great video. The production, sound, editing all immaculate and James's enthusiasm and expertise makes it so much fun to watch. Brilliantly made

[@luckaffe237]

I haven't watched the video yet but.... the thumbnail is kind of … salacious (if thats the right word) 😅

[@NothingXemnas]

The Picopresso is an engineering marvel. It takes creativity to make something work in such a tight space, and as pointed out, every piece can be stored inside itself!

[@windowdoog]

Does it need a lot of water to clean? The water where I work isn’t potable so I have to pack in drinking and cleaning water.

[@jordanjones6119]

Would you recommend this one? I'm looking for a way to make an espresso specifically with espresso tonics/ Iced lattes. I'm a pourover guy usually, but there really is no good substitute for espresso in these drinks I find

[@Giovanni1a]

@@windowdoog I own the Nanopresso and cleaning on the go is simple (when using Nespresso cups, which is the reason I like this more than the Nanopresso). After enjoying my espresso I just refill the the thing with some water (size of an espresso) and run it through. That is enough for a next one. After I'm on a location with a sink I clean it more thoroughly.

[@matthiasteubner1923]

Not questioning the technical prowess. But if a seal wears out, you have to discard the entire machine - no spare parts available. That’s pure build in obsolescence. Not nice.

[@matthiasteubner1923]

@Marco Mathies Well, I contacted them twice via e-mail and asked whether they would sell the seals as spare parts. Did not even get a reply. So now I ordered a Robot; more expensive, but will last for decades and also looks cooler IMHO. :-) For portability I have an Aeropress.

[@noeldavis618]

"That the kids call a 'sprover" made my day. May I never order a 'sprover. Also, this is one of the most enjoyable videos I've watched in a long time. I want to go do some touristy activities in my city this afternoon!

[@macchiatomemory]

In the world of personal audio, the Flair would be akin to a “transportable” system. (Think: full size headphones and an amp, that you’d bring to a location and setup, but not use on the go.)

[@Whateventoputhereyikes]

The thumbnail made me click

[@bengaliinplatforms1268]

Portaloo blue is not the colour to sell something you will be drinking

[@alanroderick7153]

Love James on a London tourist bus talking about espresso outside Caffè Concerto, Piccadilly - excellent backdrop !

[@mx.hensler]

What a beautiful job isolating James’ voice on the upper deck of a bus in London. What’s the secret?

[@chch242]

Studio dubbing?

[@DrDildus]

Close range with a shotgun mic, probably.

[@mcky_msh]

Shotgun mic with a wind sock

[@andrewcavicchi3682]

I used to daily drive a nanopresso with the "barista" basket/tank and a removed pressure valve! Definitely a bit too fussy for a day to day coffee maker (cleaning all the parts was a pain), but for a cheap small option the results were great. The picopresso is definitely tempting for a backpacking coffee setup...

[@darthjump]

I just realized this is like a unholy coffe crusade among the crucible of Tea Motherland. What a move. I miss London.

[@jobopening5085]

Hilarious that at 10:36 James passes a coffee shop ;-)

[@bpouelas]

Would love to see similarly-styled videos by other folks in different cities around the world. Would be such a cool way to learn about a new place and a fond passion.

[@DeLorean58]

I'll throw my hat in the ring for the Staresso portable espresso Brewer. It's actually quite capable. And it's just slightly cheaper than the picopresso.

[@dssyenon]

I too have a Staresso and it's become my daily driver. Paired with a hand grinder and collapsible kettle, switched dual voltage for worldwide use. I like how the Staresso pump mechanism lets you brace against a table and I can use my body weight. The Pico requires more wrist strength.

[@richardemerson8075]

The Staressso definitely looks like it should have been in this video! Maybe James can do a short piece on it separately?

[@LunTuba]

Finally James Hoffman did picopresso and nomad!! I was waiting for this for a looong time (to decide which one to buy)!! Thank you man!

[@Zach-h2l]

So after watching, which one are you thinking about getting?

[@DeepDuh]

That’s a … strategic lever in the thumbnail

[@ytdytfyf678]

The little brush from Picopresso is actually quite useful for brushing off powder stuck in the screw to avoid leakage issue while applying pressure to the pump.

[@xXasdfMAN12Xx]

This has gotta be one of the best, if not the best video you've ever made. Between content, set, writing, topic, and cinematography, this is a masterpiece.

[@EstrafaDC]

I had a Handpresso we took on a monthlong cross-country trip across the U.S. and back through Canada. It made good espresso but only AFTER REALLY figuring out the grind size and tamping. I cannot tell you how delightful it was to have a nice shot of GOOD espresso in really remote parts of the American West. My fave memory was pulling it out and making and enjoying espresso lakeside at Lake Louise in the Canadian Rockies while my feet were dangling in the lake. Also the chance to pick up good coffee from regional roasters. Again this was in 2010 when really good 3rd wave coffee was super rare to find.

[@henrikballekoefoed591]

I've had the Handpresso for years, and pulled more than 2000 shots on it. Sadly all reviews of it is done wrong, not only this one... You definitely have to FILL the portafilter with TAMPED coffee. Typically 9-9.5 grams. Preheat is important. Grind so that 17-18 grams in cup takes around 25 seconds. That will give a superb espresso. Often better than on my Izzo Alex Duetto. Seeing James disregard basic espresso recipe rules, surprises me. 1:2 in 25 sec makes it a no-brainer to produce a seriously good espresso. The headroom above the water has a size that when the compressed air enters, will reduce the pressure to around 9 bars. During the shot, that 9 bars declines to around 7 bars, and thus slowly reduces the increasing flow rate. Much like a leaver profile. I made a 3D printed thingy to fill and tamp the portafilter in one go without making a mess.

[@austinfreyrikrw6651]

Ahh, brewing a cup of espresso while sailing down Thames. That IS the life!

[@VEEBProjects]

Tell me that the placement of the flair handle on the thumbnail wasn't deliberate....

[@jbnitpou9942]

It is strange the presentation photo of the video. But I may have the mind gone wrong. 😀

[@cliveso]

The Handpresso is really made for ESE pods. Pods may not be as good as coffee that you've ground yourself, but they are super convenient. The whole set up makes for a completely mess-free brewing experience, which I think is unmatched. In practice, I find that it helps to preheat the water compartment, and to "preinfuse" by holding the device in the flipped position for 5 seconds before opening the valve.

[@fredhunt2148]

You own one, I assume? :D

[@cliveso]

@@fredhunt2148 Yes I do. I use it in my office. The coffee it makes is no where near as good as I can at home, but there's definitely a niche for it. It's also great for when you visit somewhere remote.

[@benjaminroos2342]

I have one too and it feels he indeed did not use it right.

[@faballard]

@@benjaminroos2342 I confirm. I have a handpresso (and a Flair Pro 2). I've been using it for probably 3-4 years now and yes, don't expect to make the perfect 1:2 ratio espresso, but you can get a 1:5 or 1:4 ratio single shot if you put less water. I don't understand why he says that you can put just 5g of coffee. As far as I remember, the recommended dose in the user guide is 7g (as ESE pods...). I love this tiny thing that I use during trekking, but also a lot at home if I want a light espresso, and a very easy and quick cleaning work. For comparison, I use my Flair when I want a very good double espresso, and more importantly, time for pre-heating and cleaning. That's a different workflow, a different result.

[@galenlemei975]

This video is in the running for the most delightful I’ve seen in nearly 10 years of avidly watching KZbin. I found this because I have been looking at both the pico and flair, not so much for portability as for extremely compact storage, and this was a very helpful review in that regard. But this video would be incredible even if my lips never touched espresso.

[@coreymbonge9532]

I was in the same position last year. I wanted to get into the world of espresso but at the entry level. Since space and price were concerns, a gaggia wouldn't work well. I narrowed my choice to the pico and flair. What I found was, the more expensive flairs, such as the 58 and the pro 2 are extremely capable, perhaps even superior to machines that cost 3-4x the price. However, on a fair price comparison, I had to measure up the pico with the flair neo. What I found, according to dozens of reviews, was that the Neo was capable of producing a decent espresso-like shot, but because of its use of a pressurized portafilter, it could never get to the level of proper espresso. On the other hand I was watching people like Sprometheus and Kyle Roswell pull incredible shots of true espresso with the pico. So I opted for the latter. I'm now about 7 months in and I absolutely love it, taking it between home and work. It certainly has a learning curve, but considering you're watching James Hoffman I assume you're a coffee nerd, and so you shouldn't be put off by that. I think I will upgrade to a Flair 58 with a smart profiler at some point as a dream machine, but the pico has served me exceptionally well so far.

[@Bubreherro]

So how many people will suffer from seasickness from this while ‘technically’ working at a desk, with their two feet on a very stable ground?

[@ChristineSK]

I'm 2 mins in and already about to throw up......

[@ArbathSahadewa]

I'm one of them 🤢

[@arielseoane]

I lasted 2 minutes and had to scroll down for an audio only experience 😩

[@danielcodd8986]

Yeaaaah 10 minutes later I'm still feeling queezy

[@itsthemetho]

I have the picopresso and I think it is awesome. Prior to this I used a Presso/ROK that is similar to the flair. This was good for 10 years, but the picopresso is so much better. If preheated, I am really surprised how good a coffee the picopresso makes. The picopresso is so tiny, but slightly heavier than expected. I have modified it with a pressurised basket to use pre-ground coffee when I need to travel exceptionally light. However I much prefer to use a portable grinder and the original basket, which to be honest is okay. The main bug bear is cleaning the shower screen and that I haven't seen any spare parts yet. I paid $140AUD for it, that is much cheaper than the $220 for my older Presso/ROK machine.

[@CoffeewdLuis]

😁 What I love about this video is that James could have done all of this inside a studio and call it a day. But he went ahead and did it on the go and showing how portable these brewers are.