Varia AKU Mini Scale
Varia AKU MINI Espresso Scale
Varia’s AKU MINI is a compact espresso scale with all the functionality of the original and then some. With improved water resistance, a dedicated espresso brewing mode known as AKU SPRO, and bluetooth compatibility, the AKU MINI is an espresso enthusiast’s dream come true.
Features & Benefits
If you didn’t know any better, you might think the AKU MINI was a toy replica of Varia’s flagship scale—you would be very wrong. In fact, the AKU MINI actually has more functionality than its predecessor in a package a fraction of the size.
Like the original Varia AKU scale, the MINI is wrapped in a heat-resistant PFA alloy body with slip-resistant silicone feat. Internally, it has all the same functionality: full manual and auto taring and timing modes. However it adds the “AKU SPRO” espresso brewing mode which automatically calculates brew ratios in real time based on your input of ground coffee dose. Via the settings menu, the MINI allows you to adjust the following options:
- Flow Rate Tracking (on/off)
- Screen Brightness (3-Levels)
- Beep Volume (off/1/2)
- Sleep Time (off/5/10/20/30/60 min)
- Delay Timer (off/0/1/1.5/2/2.5/3 sec)
- AKU SPRO Dose (16-24g in 0.05g increments)
- Scale Calibration
The AKU MINI also has improved precision, weighing accurately to 0.01 g (compared to the 0.1 g accuracy of the original). The 32 bit OLED display is easy to read and shows the flow rate of your extraction. Varia also boosted the water resistance rating on the AKU MINI to IPX 6, which means it’s able to withstand strong jets of water from any angle. Tack on Bluetooth compatibility to integrate with various coffee apps such as the Pressensor and access firmware updates, and you’ve got yourself a dedicated espresso scale that will last you a lifetime.
Why You Should Get It
If you’re a dedicated espresso brewer, the AKU MINI is going to spark joy. It’s durable, compact, and absolutely packed with helpful features to streamline your extractions at home. At a fraction of the cost of comparable scales but with build quality that has them beat, the value of the AKU MINI cannot be overstated.
