PUQ Prep Navigator – automatic WDT and distribution tool
One press of a button, and needles distribute the coffee grounds in the portafilter. The PUQ Prep Navigator makes the WDT step automatic and the same for every shot. Available in black and white, in Bern and Zurich.
The Navigator sits on top of the portafilter. A motor moves a ring with several needles through the grounds and breaks up clumps. According to PUQ, the needle arrangement is chosen so that no two paths are alike. It was developed by Puqpress (Barista Technology B.V., Amsterdam), maker of the automatic PUQ press tampers.
Features of the PUQ Prep Navigator
Distribution at the press of a button
A press of the main button starts the distribution. Every shot is prepared the same way, and your attention stays with the other steps.
Getting more out of your grinder
PUQ describes the Navigator as a complement to the grinder: it distributes the grounds and breaks up clumps, including with older grinders. For use directly under the grinder, PUQ lists a separate in-line kit.
A faster workflow
The Navigator fits into your workflow and, according to PUQ, is designed for the pace of a busy bar. Cordless, battery-powered, with no changes to the rest of your setup.
Developed for baristas
No more stirring by hand. According to PUQ, this takes the strain off your hands over many shots and keeps the focus on the preparation.
The details in everyday use
Three profiles and start delay
Speedy distributes in around 1.5 seconds, Standard in around 3 and Precise in around 5 seconds. A start delay can be set from 0 to 10 seconds in steps of 0.5 seconds. You select them using the two touch buttons and the dot LED display.
Two needle rings
From the factory, the white or black needle ring for baskets of 19 g and up is fitted. For baskets under 19 g, an anthracite ring is included. The ring can be changed with your thumbs or a flat screwdriver.
Battery and charging
It charges via USB-C with the included power adapter. The Navigator cannot be used while charging. After 30 seconds it goes into sleep mode, and after 5 minutes it switches off. Shaking it or pressing the main button wakes it up.
Care
Remove the needle ring weekly and clean it with a brush, and wipe the housing monthly with a dry cloth. Do not immerse in water and do not clean with steam.
At a glance
| Type | Automatic distribution tool (WDT), one-touch |
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| Manufacturer | Puqpress (Barista Technology B.V.), Amsterdam |
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| Colours | Black, white |
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| Portafilter | Diameter larger than 57.3 mm (according to the user manual), i.e. 58 mm portafilters |
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| Distribution profiles | Speedy approx. 1.5 s, Standard approx. 3 s, Precise approx. 5 s |
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| Start delay | 0–10 s in steps of 0.5 s |
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| Needle rings | White/black for baskets of 19 g and up (fitted), anthracite for baskets under 19 g. PUQ website: baskets 18–20 g and 20–22 g |
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| Battery | Lithium-ion, 3.7 V, 1700 mAh |
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| Capacity | 500–800 cycles per charge, depending on profile |
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| Charging | USB-C, 5 V, max. 5 W |
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| Dimensions | 10.5 × 9.5 × 5.0 cm (PUQ website), 97 × 99 × 49 mm (user manual) |
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| Weight | 400 g (PUQ website), 0.42 kg (user manual) |
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| In the box | Navigator with fitted needle ring, anthracite needle ring, USB-A to USB-C cable, USB power adapter, quick guide |
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Who it's made for
For anyone with a 58 mm portafilter who distributes the grounds before tamping and would rather not do this step by hand. PUQ describes its use at a busy café bar as well as at home.
If you prefer to distribute by hand, you'll find both routes among the WDT Tools: affordable and precise from Normcore, or the Moonraker from Weber Workshops. More PUQ products are in the Puqpress collection.
After distribution comes the tamper: affordable from Normcore, with more presence from Weber Workshops, all models under Tampers. For scales, Normcore covers the essentials, while Acaia adds an app and flow-rate display. The advice tool shows which machine and grinder suit your setup. Our opinion is one of many.
Frequently asked questions
Which portafilters fit the PUQ Prep Navigator?
According to the user manual, portafilters with a diameter larger than 57.3 mm, i.e. 58 mm portafilters. For baskets of 19 g and up, the needle ring is fitted from the factory; for baskets under 19 g, a second ring is included.
How many cycles does one battery charge last?
According to PUQ, 500 to 800 cycles per charge, depending on the profile. It charges via USB-C, and the Navigator cannot be used while charging.
What is the difference between the three profiles?
The duration of the distribution: Speedy around 1.5 seconds, Standard around 3 and Precise around 5 seconds. There is also an adjustable start delay of 0 to 10 seconds.
Do I still need a tamper afterwards?
Yes. The Navigator distributes the grounds but does not compress them. The tamper comes next, by hand or automatic.
How do I clean the Navigator?
Remove the needle ring weekly and clean it with a brush, and wipe the housing monthly with a dry cloth. Never immerse the Navigator in water.
Can I see the product before buying?
Our showrooms in Bern (Gerberngasse 44) and Zurich (Hagenholzstrasse 50b) show a wide selection, but not every product is on site at all times. Drop us a line before your visit at [email protected]. When you order online, we deliver within 2–4 working days throughout Switzerland and to Liechtenstein, and Click & Collect is available in Bern and Zurich.
Tip from the roastery: For a dense, full-bodied espresso, we recommend Cozy Chocolate and Nutty Delight. Very Nutty brings maximum body without acidity. If you'd like to discover something fruity, you'll find it in Wild Peach. That is our recommendation, one of many.
