For coffee aficionados, the pursuit of the perfect cup is a constant journey. Achieving that barista-quality espresso at home requires the right equipment, and the market is flooded with options.
Selecting the best breville barista automatic coffee & espresso maker can feel overwhelming, demanding careful consideration of features, functionality, and ultimately, value. Investing in a quality automatic espresso machine is a significant decision, impacting both your daily routine and your wallet.
Choosing wisely ensures years of delicious, consistent results. This review aims to simplify the process, guiding you toward the ideal machine that meets your specific needs.
We understand the importance of both quality and ease of use when searching for the best breville barista automatic coffee & espresso maker, and our goal is to help you make an informed and confident purchase.
IN THIS ARTICLE
Top 10 Best Breville Barista Automatic Coffee & Espresso Maker Compared
π BEST OVERALL Breville Barista Touch Espresso Machine BES880BSS
- Integrated grinder with dose control.
- Fast heating with ThermoJet system.
- Intuitive touchscreen interface with customization options.
- Automatic microfoam milk texturing.
4.5/5
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π₯ 2ND RUNNER UP Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870XL
- All-in-one design with integrated grinder simplifies the espresso-making process.
- Precise temperature control (PID) ensures optimal espresso extraction.
- Powerful steam wand allows for manual microfoam milk texturing.
- Adjustable grind size and dose settings offer control over the brewing process.
4.6/5
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οΏ½ BEST VALUE Breville Barista Express Impress Espresso Machine BES876BSS
- Intelligent dosing system simplifies coffee grinding.
- Assisted tamping ensures consistent puck preparation.
- 25 grind settings allow for fine-tuning of extraction.
- Thermocoil heating system maintains stable temperature.
4.4/5
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Breville Barista Touch Impress Espresso Machine BES881BSS
- User-friendly touchscreen interface.
- Fast 3-second heat-up time thanks to the ThermoJet system.
- Assisted tamping system ensures consistent puck preparation.
- Automatic milk frothing with alternative milk settings.
4.5/5
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Breville Barista Pro Espresso Machine BES878BTR
- Integrated grinder with dose control simplifies the process.
- Fast 3-second heat-up time is very convenient.
- Precise temperature control ensures optimal extraction.
- Steam wand allows for manual milk texturing and latte art.
4.6/5
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Breville Bambino Espresso Machine BES450BSS
- Fast 3-second heat-up time with ThermoJet heating.
- Automatic steam wand with adjustable temperature and texture for easy milk frothing.
- PID temperature control ensures precise espresso extraction.
- Low pressure pre-infusion for balanced flavor.
4.7/5
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Breville RM-BES870XL Barista Express Espresso Machine
- Integrated grinder for fresh coffee.
- PID temperature control for consistent extraction.
- Manual steam wand for milk texturing.
- Includes essential accessories.
4.6/5
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Breville Oracle Jet Espresso Machine
- Integrated Baratza burr grinder with 45 grind settings.
- Automated milk frothing with temperature and texture control for various milk types.
- ThermoJet heating system for fast heat-up and energy efficiency.
- Swipe-and-select interface for ease of use.
4.5/5
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Breville Oracle Touch Espresso Machine BES990BSS
- Automated grinding, dosing, and tamping simplifies the espresso-making process.
- Dual boiler system provides precise temperature control for espresso and milk.
- Touchscreen interface with pre-programmed settings and personalization options.
- Automatic milk texturing creates barista-quality microfoam.
4.7/5
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Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine BES500BSS
- Fast 3-second heat-up time.
- Precise temperature control for optimal extraction.
- Automatic microfoam milk texturing.
- Compact footprint.
4.6/5
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Detailed Reviews of the Best Breville Barista Automatic Coffee & Espresso Maker
Breville Barista Touch Espresso Machine BES880BSS – Integrated grinder with dose control.
The Breville Barista Touch aims to bring the cafΓ© experience home with its all-in-one design. The integrated conical burr grinder with dose control works efficiently, and the ThermoJet heating system heats up quickly. The touchscreen interface is intuitive and simplifies the brewing process, allowing for customization of coffee strength, milk texture, and temperature.
The automatic microfoam milk texturing is a nice feature for latte art enthusiasts. The inclusion of various accessories, like the stainless steel portafilter and milk jug, adds value. Overall, it seems like a comprehensive system for those looking to create quality espresso drinks at home.
Pros
- Integrated grinder with dose control.
- Fast heating with ThermoJet system.
- Intuitive touchscreen interface with customization options.
- Automatic microfoam milk texturing.
- Includes helpful accessories.
Cons
- Relatively large footprint.
- Price point may be prohibitive for some.
Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870XL – All-in-one design with integrated grinder simplifies the espresso-making process.
The Breville Barista Express offers a comprehensive all-in-one solution for home espresso enthusiasts. It aims to deliver cafe-quality results with its integrated grinder, precise temperature control (PID), and powerful steam wand for milk texturing. The built-in conical burr grinder allows for on-demand grinding, and the grind size dial offers intuitive control over the coffee bean coarseness.
The machine also features low-pressure pre-infusion for even extraction. Included accessories like the Razor dose trimming tool and various filter baskets add value to the overall package. The 67oz water tank and 1/2 lb bean hopper are adequate for home use.
While it may require some practice to master the art of espresso making and milk frothing, the Barista Express provides a solid foundation for creating specialty coffee at home.
Pros
- All-in-one design with integrated grinder simplifies the espresso-making process.
- Precise temperature control (PID) ensures optimal espresso extraction.
- Powerful steam wand allows for manual microfoam milk texturing.
- Adjustable grind size and dose settings offer control over the brewing process.
- Includes a variety of useful accessories.
- Relatively fast from bean to cup.
Cons
- Requires a learning curve to master espresso extraction and milk frothing.
- 1-year limited warranty could be longer.
Breville Barista Express Impress Espresso Machine BES876BSS – Intelligent dosing system simplifies coffee grinding.
The Barista Express Impress aims to simplify the manual espresso-making process at home. Its standout feature is the Impress puck system, which incorporates intelligent dosing, assisted tamping, and dose correction. The integrated conical burr grinder offers 25 grind settings, providing flexibility in achieving desired extraction.
The Thermocoil heating system, with PID control, maintains precise temperature for consistent results. The included steam wand allows for manual milk texturing. While simplifying aspects of espresso creation, users still have control over key parameters like grind size and shot volume.
The machine comes with a range of accessories, including a portafilter, milk jug, and cleaning tools, adding to its value.
Pros
- Intelligent dosing system simplifies coffee grinding.
- Assisted tamping ensures consistent puck preparation.
- 25 grind settings allow for fine-tuning of extraction.
- Thermocoil heating system maintains stable temperature.
- Includes a variety of useful accessories.
Cons
- Still requires some manual effort and skill to master.
- Relatively large footprint may not be suitable for small kitchens.
Breville Barista Touch Impress Espresso Machine BES881BSS – User-friendly touchscreen interface.
The Barista Touch Impress aims to simplify the espresso-making process with its user-friendly interface and automated features. The step-by-step barista guidance and real-time feedback are particularly helpful for beginners, while the assisted tamping system ensures a consistent puck. The ThermoJet heating system delivers impressively fast heat-up times.
Alternative milk settings are a welcome addition for those who prefer non-dairy options, and the auto steam wand produces good microfoam. The integrated grinder offers a decent range of grind settings, and the touchscreen is responsive and easy to navigate. While the automation features are convenient, experienced users might find them somewhat restrictive.
Overall, the Barista Touch Impress provides a convenient and relatively foolproof way to make quality espresso at home.
Pros
- User-friendly touchscreen interface.
- Fast 3-second heat-up time thanks to the ThermoJet system.
- Assisted tamping system ensures consistent puck preparation.
- Automatic milk frothing with alternative milk settings.
- Step-by-step barista guidance with real-time feedback.
Cons
- Automation may limit customization options for experienced users.
- High price point compared to manual espresso machines.
Breville Barista Pro Espresso Machine BES878BTR – Integrated grinder with dose control simplifies the process.
The Breville Barista Pro is an all-in-one espresso machine aimed at bringing cafΓ©-quality coffee to your home. The integrated grinder with dose control is a convenient feature, delivering the right amount of coffee grounds on demand. The machine boasts a rapid 3-second heat-up time thanks to the ThermoJet system, and precise temperature control for optimal espresso extraction.
The steam wand allows for manual milk texturing, enabling latte art creation. The LCD display provides a user-friendly interface with helpful animations and information. It comes with a variety of useful accessories, including filter baskets, a milk jug, and cleaning tools.
The 2-year warranty provides peace of mind. Overall, a solid choice for home baristas.
Pros
- Integrated grinder with dose control simplifies the process.
- Fast 3-second heat-up time is very convenient.
- Precise temperature control ensures optimal extraction.
- Steam wand allows for manual milk texturing and latte art.
- Intuitive LCD interface makes operation easy.
- Comes with a comprehensive set of accessories.
Cons
- The price point is relatively high compared to basic espresso machines.
- Requires a bit of a learning curve to master all the features and settings.
Breville Bambino Espresso Machine BES450BSS – Fast 3-second heat-up time with ThermoJet heating.
This espresso machine aims to bring barista-quality coffee into the home, focusing on speed and ease of use. The 54mm portafilter and 19-gram capacity seem adequate for full-flavored extraction. The automatic steam wand is a key feature, promising consistent milk texturing with adjustable temperature and texture levels, which could be a real time-saver.
The ThermoJet heating systemβs claimed 3-second heat-up time is impressive for those who value speed. Low-pressure pre-infusion and PID temperature control indicate attention to detail in the extraction process. The control panel seems straightforward with options for one or two cups, steam, and milk adjustments.
Overall, it looks like a good machine for beginners to intermediate espresso enthusiasts. The 1-year warranty provides some peace of mind.
Pros
- Fast 3-second heat-up time with ThermoJet heating.
- Automatic steam wand with adjustable temperature and texture for easy milk frothing.
- PID temperature control ensures precise espresso extraction.
- Low pressure pre-infusion for balanced flavor.
- Relatively easy to use control panel.
Cons
- 54mm portafilter might be limiting for some advanced users accustomed to larger sizes.
- 1-year warranty is standard, but a longer warranty would be preferable for a machine at this price point.
Breville RM-BES870XL Barista Express Espresso Machine – Integrated grinder for fresh coffee.
The Breville Barista Express is an all-in-one espresso machine designed for home use, aiming to deliver third-wave coffee quality. The integrated conical burr grinder allows for on-demand grinding directly into the portafilter, and the grind size is adjustable. It features low-pressure pre-infusion and PID temperature control for optimal extraction.
The manual steam wand enables milk texturing for lattes. It comes with a good selection of accessories to get you started. This is a certified remanufactured unit, so expectations should be tempered accordingly.
Pros
- Integrated grinder for fresh coffee.
- PID temperature control for consistent extraction.
- Manual steam wand for milk texturing.
- Includes essential accessories.
- Adjustable grind size.
Cons
- Remanufactured unit, lifespan may be shorter.
- Learning curve for mastering grind and extraction.
Breville Oracle Jet Espresso Machine – Integrated Baratza burr grinder with 45 grind settings.
The Barista Touch Impress boasts impressive features geared towards replicating a cafΓ©-quality experience at home. The integrated Baratza burr grinder with numerous grind settings offers significant control over the extraction process, and the automatic milk frothing system with adjustable temperatures and textures caters to various milk types. The ThermoJet heating system promises rapid heating and energy efficiency.
The swipe-and-select interface and barista guidance features aim to simplify the brewing process. The machine is a substantial investment, but if you’re serious about espresso and latte art, it seems to offer a comprehensive set of tools.
Pros
- Integrated Baratza burr grinder with 45 grind settings.
- Automated milk frothing with temperature and texture control for various milk types.
- ThermoJet heating system for fast heat-up and energy efficiency.
- Swipe-and-select interface for ease of use.
- Barista guidance feature helps optimize espresso extraction.
- Professional-style 58mm stainless steel portafilter.
Cons
- The initial cost represents a significant investment.
- Complexity may present a learning curve for novice users.
Breville Oracle Touch Espresso Machine BES990BSS – Automated grinding, dosing, and tamping simplifies the espresso-making process.
The Breville Oracle Touch aims to bring cafe-quality espresso to your home with its impressive array of automated features. The integrated conical burr grinder precisely grinds and doses the coffee, while the dual boiler system ensures optimal temperature control for both brewing and milk steaming. The touchscreen interface simplifies the process, offering pre-programmed settings and personalization options for various coffee drinks.
The automatic milk texturing is a standout feature, creating microfoam essential for latte art. The inclusion of accessories like the stainless steel milk jug and cleaning kit is a welcome addition. Overall, it’s a comprehensive machine designed for convenience and consistent results.
Pros
- Automated grinding, dosing, and tamping simplifies the espresso-making process.
- Dual boiler system provides precise temperature control for espresso and milk.
- Touchscreen interface with pre-programmed settings and personalization options.
- Automatic milk texturing creates barista-quality microfoam.
- Includes a comprehensive set of accessories for maintenance and use.
Cons
- High price point may not be accessible for all consumers.
- Complexity may require a learning curve to fully utilize all features.
Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine BES500BSS – Fast 3-second heat-up time.
The Breville Bambino Plus aims to bring cafe-quality espresso into the home with a compact design. Its key features include dose control grinding using a 54mm portafilter, precise temperature control thanks to the PID system, and a rapid 3-second heat-up time. The automatic steam wand offers adjustable milk temperature and texture, allowing for latte art creation.
The auto-purge function ensures consistent brewing temperatures. Its small footprint makes it suitable for smaller kitchens. The machine offers easy-to-use controls for single or double shots and steam activation.
Overall, the Bambino Plus offers a blend of convenience and performance for espresso enthusiasts seeking a compact and relatively affordable option.
Pros
- Fast 3-second heat-up time.
- Precise temperature control for optimal extraction.
- Automatic microfoam milk texturing.
- Compact footprint.
- Auto-purge functionality.
Cons
- Limited to a 54mm portafilter (might limit upgrade options).
- The 2-year limited warranty, while standard, should be understood.
Buying Guide: What to Look For in a Best Breville Barista Automatic Coffee & Espresso Maker
Understanding Your Needs
Choosing the best Breville barista automatic coffee & espresso maker depends heavily on your individual needs and coffee preferences. Consider how often you make espresso, your skill level, and your desired level of automation. Are you a beginner looking for simplicity, or an experienced barista seeking full control? Knowing your budget is also crucial, as Breville offers a range of models at varying price points. Do you need automatic milk frothing, or are you comfortable with a manual steam wand? Considering these factors will help narrow down your options.
Key Features to Consider
When selecting the best Breville barista automatic coffee & espresso maker, several features are crucial. An integrated grinder offers convenience and freshness. Look for models with adjustable grind settings for optimal extraction. Temperature control, often achieved through a PID system or Thermocoil heating, is vital for consistent espresso. Milk frothing capabilities range from manual steam wands to fully automatic systems. Consider models with fast heat-up times for quick coffee preparation. Finally, a user-friendly interface, whether touchscreen or LCD, enhances the overall experience.
Breville Barista Models: A Comparison
Breville offers a diverse range of barista automatic coffee & espresso makers. The Barista Express is a classic all-in-one model, while the Barista Touch offers a touchscreen interface and automatic milk frothing. The Barista Pro boasts a fast heat-up time and precise temperature control. The Bambino series provides compact and affordable options. For advanced users, the Oracle series offers fully automated grinding, tamping, and milk texturing. Compare the features and prices of each model to find the best fit for your needs. Remember that the best breville barista is the one that suits your workflow.
Level of Automation vs. Manual Control
A key decision is the level of automation you desire. Fully automatic models like the Oracle series handle grinding, tamping, and milk frothing, simplifying the process for beginners. Semi-automatic models like the Barista Express offer more control over the brewing process, allowing for experimentation and fine-tuning. If you enjoy the hands-on aspect of espresso making, a manual steam wand and adjustable grind settings are essential. However, if convenience is your priority, opt for a fully automatic machine. The best Breville barista balances automation with control.
Accessories and Maintenance
Consider the included accessories when choosing a Breville barista automatic coffee & espresso maker. Many models come with portafilters, tampers, milk jugs, and cleaning tools. Regular maintenance is crucial for longevity. Descaling, cleaning the grinder, and backflushing are essential tasks. Some models offer automatic cleaning cycles to simplify maintenance. Factor in the cost of accessories and cleaning supplies when budgeting for your machine. Proper maintenance ensures your Breville barista continues to produce high-quality espresso for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions about Best Breville Barista Automatic Coffee & Espresso Maker
What is the difference between the Breville Barista Express and the Barista Touch?
The Barista Express is a semi-automatic machine, offering more hands-on control over the espresso-making process, including manual tamping and milk frothing. The Barista Touch features a touchscreen interface with pre-programmed settings and automatic milk frothing. The Touch simplifies the process for beginners, while the Express allows for greater customization and experimentation. The Barista Touch has a faster heat-up time and offers guided assistance. Both are excellent choices for home baristas seeking quality espresso, but cater to different skill levels and preferences.
How important is an integrated grinder in a Breville espresso machine?
An integrated grinder is highly desirable for several reasons. It ensures the freshest possible espresso by grinding beans just before brewing. This preserves the coffee’s aroma and flavor. Integrated grinders also simplify the espresso-making process by combining two machines into one. Breville’s integrated grinders typically offer adjustable grind settings, allowing you to fine-tune the extraction. While separate grinders can offer more control, an integrated grinder is a convenient and effective option for most home baristas.
What is PID temperature control, and why is it important?
PID (Proportional-Integral-Derivative) temperature control is a technology that ensures precise and consistent water temperature during espresso extraction. Maintaining a stable temperature is crucial for optimal extraction and consistent results. PID systems continuously monitor and adjust the heating element to maintain the desired temperature. Without PID control, temperature fluctuations can lead to under-extracted or over-extracted espresso. Breville models with PID control deliver more consistent and higher-quality espresso shots.
What are the benefits of automatic milk frothing compared to a manual steam wand?
Automatic milk frothing offers convenience and consistency. These systems automatically texture milk to create microfoam, ideal for lattes and cappuccinos. They typically offer adjustable texture and temperature settings. Manual steam wands require more skill and practice but allow for greater control over the milk frothing process. Experienced baristas may prefer manual wands for latte art, while beginners may find automatic frothing easier and more reliable.
How often should I descale my Breville espresso machine?
The frequency of descaling depends on the water hardness in your area and how often you use the machine. Generally, descaling every 2-3 months is recommended. Descaling removes mineral buildup that can affect the machine’s performance and lifespan. Breville machines often have a descaling indicator that alerts you when descaling is needed. Using filtered water can help reduce mineral buildup and extend the intervals between descaling.
What is the difference between a Thermoblock and a Thermocoil heating system?
Thermoblock and Thermocoil are both heating systems used in espresso machines. Thermoblocks heat water quickly but can be less consistent in temperature. Thermocoil systems are generally more precise and maintain a more stable temperature during extraction. Breville uses both types of heating systems in its machines, with Thermocoil often found in higher-end models for improved temperature stability.
What kind of water should I use in my Breville espresso machine?
Always use filtered water in your Breville espresso machine. Filtered water reduces mineral buildup, which can affect the machine’s performance and lifespan. Hard water can cause scale buildup, while tap water can contain chlorine and other impurities that can affect the taste of your espresso. Use a water filter pitcher or a water filtration system to ensure the water you use is clean and free of impurities.
How do I adjust the grind size on my Breville espresso machine?
Most Breville espresso machines with integrated grinders have adjustable grind settings. These settings allow you to fine-tune the extraction based on the coffee beans you are using. Finer grinds are typically used for lighter roasts, while coarser grinds are used for darker roasts. Adjust the grind size in small increments until you achieve the desired extraction. Refer to your machine’s manual for specific instructions on adjusting the grind size.
What is the best way to clean my Breville portafilter?
Clean your Breville portafilter after each use to remove coffee grounds and oils. Rinse the portafilter with hot water and use a brush to remove any remaining grounds. Periodically, soak the portafilter in a solution of hot water and espresso machine cleaner to remove stubborn buildup. Ensure the portafilter is completely dry before using it again. Regular cleaning ensures optimal espresso extraction and prevents bitter flavors.
What can I do if my Breville espresso machine is not producing enough crema?
Several factors can affect crema production. Ensure you are using fresh, high-quality coffee beans. Adjust the grind size to a finer setting. Make sure the water temperature is optimal. Check that the machine is properly descaled. Insufficient tamping pressure can also reduce crema. If you have addressed these issues and are still not getting enough crema, consult your machine’s manual or contact Breville customer support.
Conclusion: The Final Verdict
The Breville Barista Touch Espresso Machine BES880BSS offers a user-friendly and feature-rich experience for home espresso brewing. If you value convenience and customization in your coffee preparation, this machine is worth considering, provided it fits your budget and counter space.
