drum roasters
Probatone 5
the Probatone 5 is a 1–5 kg gas drum drum roaster from Probat, built in Germany, with profile logging controls.
the spec
- batch capacity
- 1–5 kg
- heat source
- gas drum
- control
- profile logging
- made in
- germany
the verdict
the Probatone 5 handles 1 to 5 kg batches with gas heating and profile logging, positioning it for small specialty roasteries, cafes adding roasting, or sample roasting in larger operations. the 5 kg ceiling means you're roasting frequently if weekly volume exceeds 75 kg, which gets labor-intensive quickly. the machine works well for testing new origins, small-batch limited releases, or shops selling 10 to 15 kg weekly at retail. profile logging helps you replicate successful roasts and train staff, though the fixed airflow takes adjustment if you're used to modern variable-fan designs. build quality is typical Probat: heavy, durable, and built for long service life. the price reflects german manufacturing and the brand name. consider whether your volume justifies the 5 kg size or if the Probatone 12 makes more sense for scalability. this machine suits roasters prioritizing quality and consistency over lowest initial cost, especially if retail sales stay small or you need rock-solid repeatability for blends.
strengths
- profile logging provides repeatability and training documentation
- german build quality with cast-iron and heavy construction
- 1 kg minimum allows flexibility for sampling and small-batch work
- fits operations with 50 to 100 kg weekly volume comfortably
trade-offs
- 5 kg maximum becomes limiting if you grow past cafe-scale roasting
- constant airflow requires different technique than variable-fan machines
- premium pricing compared to other 5 kg capacity roasters
- frequent batch cycles for even modest weekly volume
other drum roasters
keep reading, keep tasting.
the directory is yours to explore, and the passport is free.
join free
save the spots you find. build your coffee passport. follow roasters you rate.
gobrowse cafes
filter by city, brew method, vibe, and nri score. 129,000+ indie cafes.
gobest of, city by city
curated guides to every major coffee city, ranked by merit, no paid placement.
gofind my brew
describe what you're craving, our ai matches you to the right cup.
go