Overview
The Melitta Barista TS Smart sits at the apex of the Barista Smart line, adding the innovative Bean Select system that takes dual-hopper convenience to the next level. Where the T Smart offers two bean compartments, the TS Smart adds a separate powder chute for pre-ground decaf or flavored coffee — effectively giving you three coffee options at any time without swapping beans. The machine connects via Bluetooth to the Melitta Connect app, providing access to an ever-expanding recipe database and allowing you to create and save personalized drink profiles with precise control over every parameter. The high-quality steel conical burr grinder runs through its range of settings quietly and consistently. The integrated auto-cappuccinatore handles milk preparation with impressive precision, creating silky microfoam for lattes and dense cappuccino froth with equal ease. An automatic cleaning program runs after every milk drink, maintaining hygiene standards effortlessly. The large color display guides you through drink selection and maintenance routines intuitively. With its 1.8-liter water tank, removable brew group for easy washing, and robust build quality that Melitta is known for, the TS Smart justifies its premium positioning by delivering genuine versatility and connected convenience that simpler models cannot match.
The Melitta Barista TS Smart comes equipped with PID temperature control for precise brewing, pre-infusion for even extraction. It features a thermoblock boiler system made of stainless steel. The vibratory pump delivers 15.0 bars of pressure for optimal extraction.
Priced at $1,100, the Melitta Barista TS Smart is designed for serious home baristas who want café-quality espresso. As a super-automatic machine, it handles everything from grinding to extraction at the touch of a button — perfect for convenience without sacrificing quality.
In terms of build quality, the Melitta Barista TS Smart is a substantial machine, weighing in at 11.0 kg, manufactured in Germany, drawing 1450W of power. With dimensions of 267 x 464 x 364 mm (W×D×H), make sure you have adequate counter space. The built-in water reservoir holds 1800 ml, making it easy to set up anywhere in your kitchen.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- PID temperature control ensures consistent extraction temperature shot after shot
- Pre-infusion gently saturates the coffee puck before full pressure, improving extraction evenness
- Stainless steel boiler is corrosion-resistant and easy to maintain
- Built-in cup warmer keeps your cups at optimal temperature
- Manufactured in Germany, known for quality espresso machine engineering
Cons
- Thermoblock heating may not match the temperature stability of traditional boiler designs
- Vibratory pump can be noisy and may not last as long as rotary alternatives under heavy use
Full Specifications
| Brand | Melitta |
|---|---|
| Model | Melitta Barista TS Smart |
| Category | Super-Auto |
| Status | Current |
| Country of Origin | Germany |
| Year Introduced | 2019 |
| Boiler Type | Thermoblock |
| Boiler Material | Stainless Steel |
| Pump Type | Vibratory |
| Pump Pressure | 15.0 bar |
| PID Control | Yes |
| Pre-Infusion | Yes |
| Pressure Profiling | No |
| Flow Control | No |
| Group Head | Proprietary |
| Steam Wand | Auto |
| Water Source | Reservoir |
| Reservoir Capacity | 1800 ml |
| Cup Warmer | Yes |
| Dimensions (W x D x H) | 267 x 464 x 364 mm |
| Weight | 11.0 kg (24.3 lbs) |
| Wattage | 1450 W |
| Voltage | 220V |
| MSRP | $1,100 |
Our Verdict
The Melitta Barista TS Smart is a solid choice for anyone who values convenience above all. Super-automatic machines trade manual control for one-touch simplicity, and this model delivers on that promise. The mid-range price buys you better build quality and more drink options than budget super-automatics. If you want hands-off espresso with minimal cleanup, this is worth considering. If you enjoy the ritual of manual espresso-making, look at semi-automatic options instead.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Melitta Barista TS Smart good for beginners?
Yes, the Melitta Barista TS Smart is excellent for beginners. As a super-automatic machine, it handles grinding, tamping, and extraction automatically. You just add beans and press a button. It's one of the easiest ways to get into espresso.
How often does the Melitta Barista TS Smart need maintenance?
Regular maintenance includes daily backflushing (for machines with solenoid valves), weekly cleaning of the group head and portafilter, and descaling every 1-3 months depending on water hardness. Using filtered water significantly reduces scale buildup and extends machine life.
What grinder pairs well with the Melitta Barista TS Smart?
For a machine at this level, consider mid-range to premium grinders: Eureka Mignon Specialita ($400), Niche Zero ($600), or DF64 ($400-$500). These grinders will do justice to the machine's capabilities without being the bottleneck in your setup.
Is the Melitta Barista TS Smart worth $1,100?
The Melitta Barista TS Smart's value depends on your commitment to espresso. If you drink espresso daily, a quality machine pays for itself vs. cafe purchases within 6-12 months. The Melitta Barista TS Smart offers PID temperature control at its price point, making it a sound investment for regular espresso drinkers.
Recommended Grinder Pairings for the Melitta Barista TS Smart
A good grinder is essential for getting the most out of your espresso machine. Here are some grinders that pair well at this price level: