
Datum Coffee: Espresso Machine Innovation from Austria Impresses
This video presents the Datum Coffee prototype, described as an absolute highlight at the trade fair. Developed by Chris and Nikolaus, two students from Austria, the machine aims to make great espresso accessible to everyone – from beginners to coffee nerds.
Technical Innovations & Smart Features
- Fast Heat-Up: A thick-film heating element reaches operating temperature in just 10 seconds – the machine is ready while the beans are being ground. A separate main switch is almost unnecessary.
- Integrated Grinder & App Connectivity: The machine works with a synchronized 64 mm burr grinder. By scanning the coffee bean package with the app, the optimal recipe (from roastery "Kaffeekraft") is automatically loaded.
- Sensors & Customization: Sensors for temperature, flow, and volume are integrated. The machine will later allow flow and pressure profiling (currently using a gear pump).
- No Manual Tamping Required: A tamping mechanism in the brew group automatically compresses the coffee – you simply place the ground coffee into the portafilter.
- Waste Reduction: A pressure release when the brew group lifts loosens the coffee puck, making it easier to eject and reducing waste water.
- Open Platform: Roasters can share their recipes via the cloud platform. The platform is even open to other manufacturers.
- Price & Availability: The price is described as very affordable (exact number not disclosed). Planned Kickstarter launch in fall 2026, delivery end of 2027.
Target Audience & Operation
- Simplicity: The machine targets beginners who were previously hesitant to buy a portafilter machine due to complexity or time commitment.
- Deep Control: At the same time, nerds can manually adjust all parameters (temperature, pressure, flow) and create their own recipes.
- Two Versions: A version with and without a steam wand will be available.
Test Summary
During the test, the machine brews an espresso – the tamping mechanism applies a consistent 20 kg of pressure. The display shows the process. The taste is described as "amazing" and "absolutely great." The duo is highly motivated, and the machine is considered "super exciting" for fair visitors.
Source: Video transcript – Datum Coffee, prototype at a coffee trade fair.






