10 Tools Baristas Wish You’d Stop Buying — and What We’re Eyeing Instead, From $16

Adding to our wishlists ASAP.

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For those with a penchant for espresso , few things are more sacred than our first-morning latte. If you’re anything like us, you take that initial sip seriously — and you’ve likely meticulously researched new products, barista recommendations, and groundbreaking products for the best taste and quality. It’s also easy to get pulled into the allure of spring-loaded tampers and Bluetooth-connected machines. Still, most baristas will say the shiniest new accessories aren’t really needed in your daily routine.

“While these gadgets can be helpful, they’re not essential for brewing high-quality coffee at home,” Cary Wong, Partners Coffee ’s Director of Coffee, tells Food & Wine . “Instead of investing in these tools, people should focus on mastering brewing techniques and consistency, which will have a much greater impact.”

Start by skipping professional-grade equipment, like distribution tools and digitally connected scales — which aren’t vital in low-volume establishments like your kitchen. Instead, scroll ahead to discover which burr grinder Wong recommends, as well as a lineup of other barista tools we’d say deserve a front-and-center spot on your counter. It all starts at just $16.

Don’t Use: Digital Scales With Bluetooth Connectivity

Instead Use This: A Precision Digital Scale.

$50

While high-tech devices can be nice, precise measurements will ultimately serve you better in the long run. Measure coffee grounds in 0.1-gram increments with this waterproof tool from Williams Sonoma, which includes an LED screen and a 60-minute timer. The digital scales ' compact size also easily slides into the nooks and crannies of your cabinets for quick access.

Don’t Use: That Standalone Milk Whisk

Instead Use This: An Electric Handheld Milk Frother

$30

$16

Whether you’re whipping up cold foam or aerating milk for a latte, an electric frother, and whisk is an at-home barista’s must-have. Powerlix’s durable version — currently marked down nearly 50% on Target’s website — offers a 19,000-rotations-per-minute motor encased in hardy stainless steel.

Don’t Use: A Clunky Coffee Grinder

Instead Use This: A Barista-Approved Burr Grinder

$485

$355

Fellow’s Ode grinders have a fantastic reputation preceding them, and Wong notes this particular model is ideal for prepping grounds for pour-over and drip coffee. We’ve found that it takes a few tries to get the hang of Ode machines’ grind options, but this powerful little tool is well worth the effort. You can score more than $100 off right now.

Don’t Use: Pro-level Distribution Tools

Instead Use This: A Multi-Functional Leveler

$36

$31

You might’ve already spotted futuristic, needle-like WDT tools in baristas’ flashy social media videos. Its goal is to evenly distribute grounds for a smooth espresso pull, but we’d suggest allocating those dollars toward a versatile 2-in-1 leveler and tamper. (Just take note of your espresso machine ’s portafilter measurements first.)

Don’t Use: Spring-Loaded Espresso Tampers

Instead Use This: All-In-One Tamper Set

$100

Spring-loaded versions of this standard barista tool promise to compact espresso grounds with a bit more force. Instead, opt for a gentler (but still effective!) version that snugly packs those finely milled grounds for the smoothest pull. This gifting-ready dock also includes a coveted tamper and mess-free spot to rest your portafilter.

Don’t Use: A Collection of Different Specialty Grinders

Instead: Opt for a universal version.

Fellow Opus Conical Burr Grinder

$195

Wong points to this gadget’s versatility as key behind his recommendation, noting that at-home baristas can use it for a variety of beverages (including your run-of-the-mill brewed coffee, coarse cold brew , and finely ground espresso). This “powerful” version offers 41 different ground settings and a precision measuring lid.

Don’t Use: An Everyday Coffee Machine You’ll Quickly Replace

Instead Use This: A Stylish, Quiet Coffee Machine

$299

$229

This editor-approved coffee maker was one of the best machines we tested all year. Brew up to 10 cups at once — using one of four brewing strengths — in an insulated thermal carafe. As a plus, shoppers note that this sleek machine is also quiet.

Don’t Use: Sugary, Bottled Syrups

Instead Use This: Glass Dispenser (To Create and Store Your Own Syrups)

$15

$14

Homemade syrup is a life-changing upgrade to your next macchiato — trust us. While many fantastic flavored syrups are on the market, even the tastiest won’t hold a candle to the homemade version. Once you’ve cooled that simple syrup recipe , funnel it into an aesthetically pleasing container with minimal room on your countertop.

As much as we love trying a buzzy new gadget, the best coffee often comes down to those tried-and-true barista basics. Don’t miss these barista tool sales while they’re still hot — and, we might argue, as hot as your next espresso pull.

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