Flair 58 vs 9Barista Mk.2
Quick take: The Flair 58 costs $195 less; the 9Barista Mk.2 heats up faster (3-6 minutes).
| Spec | Flair 58 | 9Barista Mk.2 |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $550 | $745 |
| Rating | 4.7★ (1,200) | 4.8★ (260) |
| Type | Manual/Lever | Manual/Lever |
| Boiler | None | Single Boiler |
| Built-in grinder | No | No |
| Pump pressure | — | 9 bar |
| Water capacity | N/A | 4 oz |
| Warm-up time | 15 minutes | 3-6 minutes |
| Steam wand | — | — |
| Basket type | Unpressurized Only | Unpressurized Only |
| Best for | Purists | Espresso Purists |
| Dimensions | 7.5 x 6.7 x 16 in | 3.1 x 3.1 x 7.1 in |
| Weight | 8.4 lbs | 4 lbs |
| Warranty | 5 years | 5 years |
Pros & cons
Flair 58
- ✓Complete pressure profiling control
- ✓Standard 58mm accessories fit
- ✓No electricity needed for pulling shots
- ✓5-year warranty
- ✗No steam wand
- ✗Manual effort for each shot
- ✗Preheat cycle needed
- ✗Not great for multiple drinks
9Barista Mk.2
- ✓Genuine 9-bar, 93C extraction with real crema - not moka pot coffee
- ✓Nothing electronic to break; built to last decades and fully rebuildable
- ✓Tiny footprint travels to kitchens, boats, and campsites with a gas stove
- ✓Self-regulating design needs no gauges or temperature surfing
- ✗One double shot per 3-6 minute cycle - slow for multiple guests
- ✗No steam wand, so milk drinks need a separate frother
- ✗Demands a capable grinder and fine dialing-in like any real espresso
- ✗Body gets scorching hot and must cool before refilling