Planning on opening a small batch roastery? Or simply integrating your existing boutique café with a roastery? We have just the perfect recommendations for the best coffee roaster machines for small businesses.
Roasting your own coffee is an exciting journey for any coffee lover and business owner. Roasting your beans allows you the creative freedom to experiment with flavor profiles and blends. Further, it is also easy to maintain quality control and freshness for your customers.
While saving you up to 50% on coffee prepping costs, roasting in-house also helps you stand out among customers. Nonetheless, starting out is not always an easy journey. We’ve done a portion of the work to help make this experience a little smoother. After careful testing and researching the market, here are the 5 best small batch coffee roasters to help you start out this year.
Products reviewed in more detail
Kaleido Sniper M2 Coffee Roaster
Features
Semi-automatic operation panel, independent cooling system, precise temperature probe
Built with multiple automated features, the Kaleido Sniper M2 Electric Coffee Roaster can help boost efficiency in your roastery. The roaster's outstanding functionality and efficiency are reflected in its modern robotic-style appearance.
The coffee roaster is built with an electric heating system integrating a carbon fiber infrared electric tube. This design allows the machine's temperature to rise to 932 degrees Fahrenheit instantly. This design allows you to go through your bean roasting batches faster without losing the quality.
The machine also integrates an independent quick cooling system with fans that work in just 4 to 5 minutes. A touchscreen operation panel is added to the roaster's body for convenient operation and close monitoring of your batches. When you are done, an automatic chaff collection system keeps your place messy-free while preventing clogs.
Pros
- Minimal smoke emission due to built-in smoke extraction system
- Horizontal sample to observe the beans as you roast
- High-speed drum and IR heating pipe guarantee even heating
- On-screen temperature profile for easy tracking
Cons
- Expensive price tag
Luystoka Coffee Roaster
Features
If you are on a tight budget, the Luystoka Coffee Roaster offers an incredibly affordable and good quality option. If you can get past the manual operational needs of this roaster, you will be impressed with its capabilities.
The coffee roasting machine features 304 food-grade stainless steel construction for clean and no-leach roasting. On the other hand, its central drum is made using a 0.15-inch mesh pattern to allow even roasting of each bean. The drum is also attached to a hand-cranking lever for rotating it during the roasting process.
While the level features a full stainless steel fabrication, its ergonomic molding makes operation comfortable for extended periods. But, what truly makes this affordable small batch coffee roaster an excellent investment is its versatility. You can use it to roast a range of other food items, such as nuts, seeds, and popcorn.
Pros
- Lightweight – a little over 1.5 lbs.
- Easy to clean up with no electric wires
- Versatile design – lets you roast nuts, seeds, and popcorn
- No complicated manuals – simply put on directly on the flame and roast
Cons
- Full manual operation – including chaff collection and cooling
JIAWANSHUN Coffee Roaster Machine – Best Large Capacity
Features
Adjustable temperature, rotisserie feature, single-button operation
With a capacity of up to 2.6 lbs, the JIAWANSHUN Coffee Roaster works perfectly for small batch roasters looking to up their production a little bit. The roaster features a rotisserie-style interior with an S-shaped stirring rod to boost even heating. On the other hand, an inclined body design allows for even more uniform roasting.
This large capacity also makes it easy for roasters still find their way around the craft. It comes with an adjustable temperature scale of between 32 and 464 degrees Fahrenheit. This allows you to easily set the roast level based on the temperature, whether light, medium, or dark. Additionally, a transparent lid at the top of the roaster allows you to track the roast as you go.
Pros
- Multifunctional design lets you roast other food types
- Adjustable temperature level lets you perfect each roast level
- S-type mixing rod for even heating and roasting
- See-through lid for roast tracking
Cons
- A little heavy
DyVee Coffee Roaster
Features
12V power motor, single switch operation
The DyVee Coffee Roaster is designed to work with a portable gas burner in any setting. The 2-in-1 coffee roaster lets you operate it manually using its ergonomically wooden handle. Alternatively, you can connect it to an outlet and use it 12V electrical motor.
The ingeniously designed toaster features a blend of materials on its body to boost its durability. It is made using a Quartz glass drum for safe and even direct heating. On the other hand, the frame features a 304 stainless steel fabrication while the base is made using 201 stainless steel.
Pros
- Durable heat-receptive quartz glass drum
- Wooden handle never gets hot
- Works on a gas burner and stove
- Easy to clean and assemble
Cons
- Tends to vibrate a lot
JAVASTARR Electric Coffee Roasters Machine
Features
- 25-30 minutes roasting time
- Temperature up to 200 °C
- Cooling mode
- Automatic separation of peels
Coffee lovers finally have the chance to experience the coffee bean at its best with this set - the highest level of personal coffee enjoyment and their own roasting, Roasting of green coffee beans is straightforward. Fill, adjust, turn on - great for beginners and those who want to create their own bake with different flavors, Individually select the desired roast level (dark or medium) and achieve consistent results for a unique coffee enjoyment. Cooling mode gently cools the beans after roasting - for unparalleled enjoyment, The temperature is slowly increased to a maximum of 200 °C in several stages over 25-30 minutes., During the roasting phase, the peels are automatically separated from the coffee beans and reliably fed directly into the cuticle screen - so there is no annoying sorting after the roasting process
Pros
- Fill, adjust, turn on - great for beginners
- Individually select the desired roast level
- Cooling mode gently cools the beans after roasting
- The peels are automatically separated from the coffee beans
Cons
Budget Considerations
The advantage of investing in small batch roasters is that they will not cost you an arm and leg like larger-capacity roasters. Typically, larger capacity roasters will cost you anywhere between $2000 and $15,000 while small batch roasters cost much less. You can find roaster machines that range from anywhere as low as $50 to as high as $2000. The cost takes into consideration factors, such as automation (manual or automatic), capacity, and quality.
Available Space and Ventilation Requirements
The issue of space for small batch roasting is still important. After all, space can very much affect the roasting experience. Nonetheless, it shouldn't be too much of a concern compared to large-batch roasting. Unlike large drum-style roasters, small batch roasters (about 1-2kg) capacity is ideal for small businesses and small roasting needs.
They don't take up as much space as the large floor drum roasters. They come in different sizes and designs you can fit on the tabletop or shelf. You can also opt for gas stove top options if you have enough staff to man the roasting process on a stovetop.
As you are choosing your machine, however, you have to also remember your conditions. A roastery has several needs including an effective ventilation system and storage space for green and freshly roasted coffee beans.
Sure, the intoxicating aroma of freshly roasted coffee beans is sure to draw in coffee lovers. But, you have to think of the backend part too. This includes the increased smoke created during the roasting process. You want to design a properly equipped ventilation system to boost airflow and eliminate the risk of high-temperature accumulation and fire hazards.
Further, coffee roasters can be loud – even those with "noise-canceling features". Take into account the type of space you have when investing in a machine. Also, consider an interior design that limits noise pollution, especially if you are running a café or coffee shop.
Note: While small batch roasters churn out small quantities of coffee at a time, they also come with their perks. Compared to drum roasters, they have a shorter roasting time and are more energy efficient. Plus, they make for perfect options for small cafes or roasteries.
Desired Level of Automation
Different roasters will pack a variety of features intended to boost your roasting experience. It’s a good idea to pay attention to the features and pick what works best for you. For instance, a good roaster features flame controlling and airflow abilities to ensure even roasting and quality maintenance.
Other useful automated features include low-pressure alarms, gas leak detectors, flame failure detectors, and safe shutdown. Individual roasters will also come with their proprietary automated features to help them stand out.
Overview of Recommended Devices and Their Features
In addition to the cost and size details, pay attention to the machine’s heating system. Coffee roasters generally feature radiant or convectional heating. Radiant heat-emitting machines produce heat that envelops the beans, like an oven.
This heating method allows beans to trap moisture. Convectional heating machines, on the other hand, produce hot air that passes above the beans to trigger rapid spinning. This type of heating is ideal for roasters that want to preserve as much caffeine as possible. The good news is that you can always find coffee roasters that offer both styles of heating.
Advantages of Owning a Coffee Roaster Machine
If you are rethinking a coffee roaster machine investment, here are its benefits to motivate you;
- Quality control: Since you are roasting beans in-house, you can guarantee freshness and quality control for every batch you sell and/or cup you brew
- Creativity freedom: Roasting your own coffee gives you creative freedom. You can put together the blends you want and experiment with different beans to achieve the ideal flavors. Customers can sample different blends that you freshly craft in-house. You can even craft blends based on customer suggestions and preferences.
- Cost-cutting: It is cheaper to purchase green coffee beans in bulk and roast them yourself compared to pre-roasted beans. In fact, if you can bridge your connection with farmers and producers, you eliminate the middleman. This way you foster long lasting relationships while saving significantly. Moreover, you will be selling transparent and traceable coffee – adding more appeal to your brand. Plus, based on the superiority of the beans and blends your craft, you can mark up your prices without chasing away customers. It’s a win-win situation – you get delicious and fresh coffee plus a reasonable profit!
Disadvantages to Consider Before Purchasing a Machine
As with any other man-made product, there are disadvantages to purchasing a machine worth noting. Knowing about the drawbacks of this investment will help you make a more informed decision.
- Expensive investment: While a small batch coffee roaster machine is affordable, setting up infrastructure is highly costly. You have to think about a lineup of other ad hoc costs. These include the improvement of your infrastructure, such as designing a separate roasting space, ventilation system, and cooling equipment, among others. Plus you have to invest in more physical space for the roasting. You also need to invest in roasting and safety training for your staff. These costs far exceed what you will pay for the machine alone.
- Safety hazards: Coffee roasting yields a beautiful aroma around. But, the actual process can be intense. You get smoke and high temperatures, among others. Making the smallest mistakes can pose hazardous risks of fires, intense smoke, or serious staff injury.
- Diverting focus: Roasting can seem appealing. But, it comes with its fair share of work. This is particularly true if you already run a café or coffee shop. You have to consider quality control, and storage measures (make sure the coffee doesn't go bad, keep pests away, maintain particular environmental conditions, etc.). With so much that goes into the roasting process alone, it can slightly distract the core parts of your business. If you hire more staff, that's an extra cost to your operating budget.
Tips for Using a Coffee Roasting Machine
Follow these tips for the best and most sustainable coffee roasting experience;
Proper Cleaning and Maintenance
A coffee roaster machine is pretty sensitive and as such, it requires more attention than your regular appliance. A roaster requires regular cleaning (at least after each roasting session). Ideally, you want to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for cleaning your particular roaster machine.
Additionally, make sure you give it a good wipe at least once every week. During roasting, if you notice beans or other debris going to the wrong place, ensure you clean it up immediately. Doing so will help prolong the longevity of your machine.
Roasting Techniques to Achieve Desired Flavor Profiles
Ultimately, to achieve the desired flavor profiles, you want to know factors that actively contribute to coffee roasting. A good factor to consider example is time. Experimenting with time will have you achieve the profiles you want.
For instance, if you want to taste the true fruity notes of each bean you roast, a shorter roasting time is ideal. This produces a lighter roast. On the other hand, if you want bolder fruity, chocolatey, and nutty flavors to your coffee, a longer roasting time to achieve dark roasts is essential.
Best Practices for Storing Roasted Coffee
No matter the size or use, roasted coffee requires certain storage standards. This ensures your coffee remains fresh for longer without possible mold build up or fungal activity. Before storage, ensure you properly cool and degas the coffee. Roasted coffee should be stored in an airtight container or package with zero contact with oxygen, light, heat, or moisture.
Conclusion
With the right small batch coffee roaster machine, you can easily transform your coffee business. Whether running a small batch roaster or boutique café, roasting your own coffee gives you that creative edge. It’s also easy to build your brand and stand out by roasting the best tasting coffee. Along with being a coffee lover focused on quality tasting coffee, you will also save significantly as a business owner.
Author
Donna is a coffee lover and freelance writer from Tanzania. Coffee runs deep in her family, tracing its roots to her grandmother’s running of their first coffee farm in the mid-70s. During the summer seasons, she enjoys writing and co-running her grandmother's small robusta coffee farm with her sister in northwest Tanzania.
