WBC Temperature Measurement Protocol for Espresso Machines

Professional espresso machines used for the World Barista Championships have been tested according to the Specialty Coffee Association protocol.

Here is the protocol: Competition Espresso Machines: Specifications & Test Methods (2021 Edition)

We use this protocol as part of our dual boiler test series. Our detailed test protocol is documented here and further specified.

We first applied the WBC temperature protocol when testing the Linea Micra by La Marzocco. The protocol is only partially suitable for testing espresso machines for home use, as it queries high frequencies. However, it is well suited to demonstrate at what point an espresso machine reaches its limits.

In addition to the WBC protocol, we use our own protocol, which better reflects the use of an espresso machine at home. With this protocol, we also try to find out how a machine can be best utilized to get the most out of it. Examples of such adapted protocols are our tests of the Quickmill Orione 3000 or the Gaggia Classic.