For those who thrive on outdoor adventures—be it mountain biking, gravel riding, or bikepacking—the quest for the perfect espresso in the wild is now over. The Wacaco Picopresso is a game-changer for coffee aficionados who refuse to compromise quality, even in the most remote locations.
From the moment you hold the Picopresso, you can tell it’s made for adventurers who crave quality without compromise. Compact and robust, it feels like a tool meant for the road less traveled. The build is satisfyingly solid yet lightweight enough to toss into your pack without a second thought.
As lovers of coffee and the outdoors, we know that the perfect brew isn’t just about flavor—it’s about the experience. That’s where the Picopresso steps in, redefining what’s possible for espresso on the go.
I’ve been practicing and experimenting daily since receiving the Picopresso a few months ago. The goal? To not only dial it in but consistently pull great shots of espresso. This will be the first review of the Picopresso, as my first review consists of the most stripped-down version as I pulled (or pressed) shots sitting in Nacho the Van on a rainy day here in the Pacific Northwest (my next review will be with it on a gravel / bikepacking adventure).
Compact and Adventure-Ready
Weighing just 350 grams and measuring approximately 4 x 3 x 3 inches, the Picopresso is designed to fit seamlessly into your pack. Its robust construction ensures it can withstand the rigors of the trail or gravel road, making it an ideal companion for those who enjoy espresso outdoors.
Authentic Espresso Experience
Despite its size, the Picopresso doesn’t skimp on delivering a true espresso experience. Equipped with a naked portafilter and an 18-gram stainless steel filter basket, it allows you to pull double shots with rich crema, rivaling traditional café quality. However, mastering the Picopresso requires practice; dialing in the correct grind size and perfecting your tamping technique is essential to achieving the best results.
At home, I swapped out for a 20-gram filter basket. A 1:2 ratio means I can get a 40-gram espresso shot.
And the result? A rich, velvety espresso with a crema so smooth you’d swear it came from a machine ten times the size. Whether you’re perched on a mountaintop or sitting by a campfire, the first sip feels like a reward for embracing this espresso journey.
Hands-On Craftsmanship
The manual operation of the Picopresso means you’re fully engaged in the brewing process. While it doesn’t heat water, this hands-on approach aligns with the outdoor ethos of self-reliance and skill mastery. It’s a rewarding experience for those who appreciate the art of coffee making as much as the adventure itself.
A huge benefit of hand-brewing on the Picopresso is the pressure gauge sent with it. In my daily brewing adventures, I used it early on to get a feel for the pressure I needed to push out a great espresso shot. After a while, I got the hang and feel of it. I don’t have the gauge in the photos in this review (I’ll show it in my next review).
Considerations
At a price point of $129.90, it represents an investment in quality and portability.
Final Thoughts
Using the Picopresso is an experience in itself. This isn’t just push-button convenience—this is hands-on craftsmanship. Grinding your beans, tamping them just right, and pulling the perfect shot requires intention, but that’s the beauty of it. It connects you to your coffee in a way that instant packets or pods never could.
For the outdoor enthusiast who values a premium espresso experience amidst nature, the Wacaco Picopresso is a worthy addition. Its blend of portability, durability, and quality makes it a standout choice for those who believe that great coffee should accompany every adventure.
Is it for everyone? Probably not. But for those who value craft, adventure, and a fantastic shot of espresso wherever life takes them, the Picopresso is a game-changer.
Your next great cup of coffee is no longer bound by location. The Picopresso makes every journey a little richer—one shot at a time.
