For espresso enthusiasts seeking café-quality beverages at home, a Breville espresso machine is often a top contender. However, navigating the market to find the best Breville espresso machine without grinder can be overwhelming.
Many models exist, each promising a superior brewing experience. Investing in the right machine is crucial, as it directly impacts the flavor, convenience, and longevity of your at-home espresso ritual.
Selecting the best Breville espresso machine without grinder requires careful consideration of features, performance, and overall value. This review aims to simplify your decision-making process, guiding you toward a machine that meets your specific needs and budget, ultimately elevating your daily coffee experience.
IN THIS ARTICLE
Top 10 Best Breville Espresso Machine Without Grinder Compared
🏆 BEST OVERALL Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870XL
- Integrated grinder provides fresh coffee grounds.
- Precise temperature control for optimal extraction.
- Steam wand allows for milk texturing and latte art.
- Adjustable grind size caters to different beans.
4.4/5
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🥈 2ND RUNNER UP Breville Bambino Espresso Machine BES450BSS
- Automatic steam wand for consistent milk texturing.
- Fast Thermojet heating system.
- Low-pressure pre-infusion for even flavor extraction.
- Precise digital temperature control (PID).
4.7/5
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� BEST VALUE Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine BES500BSS
- Fast 3-second heat-up time.
- Precise temperature control (PID) for optimal extraction.
- Automatic steam wand with adjustable settings for milk texturing.
- Compact design fits easily on countertops.
4.5/5
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Breville Barista Touch Espresso Machine BES880BSS
- Integrated grinder with dose control for fresh coffee.
- Fast 3-second heat-up time with ThermoJet system.
- Automatic milk texturing for barista-quality microfoam.
- Intuitive touch screen interface with customizable settings.
4.4/5
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Breville Barista Express Impress Espresso Machine BES876BSS
- Automated dosing and tamping system simplifies espresso preparation.
- Wide range of grind settings for customized extraction.
- Precise temperature control ensures optimal flavor.
- Integrated grinder reduces the need for separate equipment.
4.5/5
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Breville BCG820BSS Smart Grinder Pro
- 60 grind settings for versatile brewing.
- Precise digital timer for consistent dosing (Dosing IQ).
- Direct grinding into portafilters, containers, etc.
- Clear and informative LCD display.
4.8/5
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Breville RM-BES870XL Barista Express Espresso Machine
- Integrated grinder provides fresh grounds on demand.
- Precise temperature control (PID) for optimal extraction.
- Powerful steam wand for milk texturing.
- Includes a comprehensive set of accessories.
4.4/5
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Breville BDC650BSS Grind Control Coffee Maker With Grinder
- Integrated grinder for fresh coffee
- Programmable auto-start for convenience
- Adjustable grind size for customized flavor
- Option to use pre-ground coffee
4.7/5
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Breville Barista Pro Espresso Machine BES878BSS
- Integrated grinder with dose control for fresh espresso.
- Fast heat-up time with ThermoJet technology.
- Precise temperature control for optimal extraction.
- Manual microfoam milk texturing with powerful steam wand.
4.4/5
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CASABREWS Ultra Espresso Machine with LCD Display
- User-friendly LCD display.
- Built-in milk frother for various coffee drinks.
- Adjustable brewing temperature (espresso only).
- 20-bar pressure system for optimal extraction.
4.5/5
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Detailed Reviews of the Best Breville Espresso Machine Without Grinder
Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870XL – Integrated grinder provides fresh coffee grounds.
The Breville Barista Express aims to bring the cafe experience into your home with its all-in-one design. It features an integrated conical burr grinder, allowing you to grind fresh beans directly into the portafilter. The machine offers precise espresso extraction through digital temperature control and low-pressure pre-infusion.
The steam wand provides the capability to create microfoam milk for latte art. The grind size dial offers simple and intuitive control over the grind, catering to various bean types. Included accessories such as the Razor Dose Trimming Tool, milk jug, and cleaning tools add value.
While designed for ease of use, mastering the art of espresso still requires some practice and experimentation. The one-year warranty offers some peace of mind.
Pros
- Integrated grinder provides fresh coffee grounds.
- Precise temperature control for optimal extraction.
- Steam wand allows for milk texturing and latte art.
- Adjustable grind size caters to different beans.
- Includes a range of useful accessories.
- Relatively compact all-in-one design.
Cons
- Requires practice to master espresso extraction and milk frothing.
- One-year limited warranty is relatively short compared to some competitors.
Breville Bambino Espresso Machine BES450BSS – Automatic steam wand for consistent milk texturing.
This espresso machine aims to deliver barista-quality coffee at home with features like a 54mm portafilter, automatic steam wand, and rapid heating. The automatic steam wand allows for adjustable milk temperature and texture, facilitating latte art and enhancing flavor. The machine’s Thermojet heating system boasts a rapid 3-second heat-up time, and the low-pressure pre-infusion gradually increases pressure to ensure even flavor extraction.
Digital temperature control (PID) helps maintain optimal extraction temperatures for espresso. The control panel simplifies operation with buttons for 1 or 2 cups, steam, and adjustable milk settings. Overall, it seems like a well-featured machine.
Pros
- Automatic steam wand for consistent milk texturing.
- Fast Thermojet heating system.
- Low-pressure pre-infusion for even flavor extraction.
- Precise digital temperature control (PID).
- User-friendly control panel.
Cons
- 1-Year Limited Product Warranty might be shorter than some competitors.
- Only compatible with 110 to 120 Volts.
Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine BES500BSS – Fast 3-second heat-up time.
The Breville Bambino Plus is a compact espresso machine designed for home use, promising “third wave specialty coffee.” It features a rapid 3-second heat-up time thanks to its ThermoJet system and utilizes digital temperature control (PID) for precise espresso extraction. The machine includes an automatic steam wand for creating microfoam milk, with adjustable temperature and texture settings. A 54mm portafilter is included, holding 19 grams of coffee.
The Bambino Plus boasts an auto-purge function to maintain optimal temperature for subsequent extractions. Its slim design should fit comfortably on most countertops. Overall, it seems geared towards users looking for a convenient and relatively automated espresso experience.
Pros
- Fast 3-second heat-up time.
- Precise temperature control (PID) for optimal extraction.
- Automatic steam wand with adjustable settings for milk texturing.
- Compact design fits easily on countertops.
- Auto-purge function maintains extraction temperature.
- Relatively simple to operate, good for beginners.
Cons
- May require some practice to achieve desired espresso and milk textures.
- Priced in the mid-range, potentially more expensive than basic espresso machines.
Breville Barista Touch Espresso Machine BES880BSS – Integrated grinder with dose control for fresh coffee.
The Breville Barista Touch aims to bring a cafe-quality experience to your home kitchen. Its integrated grinder and touch screen interface make it relatively easy to use, guiding you through the process of grinding, brewing, and milk texturing. The ThermoJet heating system provides a quick heat-up time, while the digital temperature control strives for precise espresso extraction.
The automatic milk texturing is a notable feature, allowing for consistent microfoam. The ability to customize and save up to eight coffee settings caters to individual preferences. With included accessories like the portafilter, milk jug, and cleaning kit, it is an all-in-one solution for espresso enthusiasts.
Pros
- Integrated grinder with dose control for fresh coffee.
- Fast 3-second heat-up time with ThermoJet system.
- Automatic milk texturing for barista-quality microfoam.
- Intuitive touch screen interface with customizable settings.
- Includes essential accessories for immediate use.
Cons
- Relatively high price point compared to basic espresso machines.
- Requires regular cleaning and maintenance for optimal performance.
Breville Barista Express Impress Espresso Machine BES876BSS – Automated dosing and tamping system simplifies espresso preparation.
The Barista Express Impress aims to simplify the espresso-making process at home. Its key feature is the “Impress puck system” designed to automate dosing and tamping. The intelligent dosing system adapts to ensure consistent coffee grounds, while the assisted tamping replicates a barista’s technique.
The integrated conical burr grinder offers 25 settings, allowing for grind customization. The Thermocoil heating system maintains precise temperature control. A manual steam wand enables milk texturing for latte art enthusiasts.
The machine offers pre-set single and double shot options and adjustable brewing temperature, with a decent 2L water tank and 250g bean hopper. Included accessories are comprehensive, providing the essentials for starting, including a stainless steel portafilter and milk jug.
Pros
- Automated dosing and tamping system simplifies espresso preparation.
- Wide range of grind settings for customized extraction.
- Precise temperature control ensures optimal flavor.
- Integrated grinder reduces the need for separate equipment.
- Comprehensive accessory kit included.
Cons
- The ‘assisted’ tamping may not fully replicate the nuance of a professional barista’s technique, requiring some practice.
- Price point may be higher than other entry-level espresso machines.
Breville BCG820BSS Smart Grinder Pro – 60 grind settings for versatile brewing.
The Breville Smart Grinder Pro offers a wide range of grind settings, making it versatile for various brewing methods from espresso to French press. The Dosing IQ feature, with its precise digital timer, allows for accurate and consistent dosing. The ability to grind directly into different containers, including portafilters and airtight containers, is convenient.
The LCD display is clear and informative, showing grind settings, time, and the number of shots/cups. The included accessories, such as the portafilter cradles and cleaning brush, add value. While the unit offers many options, some users might find the initial setup and calibration a bit complex.
Overall, it’s a solid grinder for those seeking precision and flexibility.
Pros
- 60 grind settings for versatile brewing.
- Precise digital timer for consistent dosing (Dosing IQ).
- Direct grinding into portafilters, containers, etc.
- Clear and informative LCD display.
- Includes useful accessories (portafilter cradles, cleaning brush).
Cons
- Initial setup and calibration might be slightly complex for some users.
- At 165 Watts, power consumption is moderate.
Breville RM-BES870XL Barista Express Espresso Machine – Integrated grinder provides fresh grounds on demand.
The Breville Barista Express (Remanufactured) aims to bring cafe-quality espresso to your home. It offers an all-in-one solution, integrating a grinder, espresso machine, and milk frother. The built-in grinder allows for fresh grinding directly into the portafilter.
Low-pressure pre-infusion and precise temperature control contribute to optimal extraction. The steam wand facilitates manual milk texturing for latte art enthusiasts. The machine includes a variety of accessories, such as a portafilter, filter baskets, and cleaning tools.
While the “remanufactured” status implies some prior use, it comes with a 6-month warranty.
Pros
- Integrated grinder provides fresh grounds on demand.
- Precise temperature control (PID) for optimal extraction.
- Powerful steam wand for milk texturing.
- Includes a comprehensive set of accessories.
- Adjustable grind size for different bean types.
- Comes with a 6-month Breville Limited Warranty (remanufactured unit).
Cons
- Remanufactured status may have cosmetic imperfections.
- 6-month warranty is shorter than new products.
Breville BDC650BSS Grind Control Coffee Maker With Grinder – Integrated grinder for fresh coffee
The Breville Grind Control coffee maker aims to deliver fresh, flavorful coffee by integrating a grinder into a drip coffee machine. Its programmable auto-start is a convenient feature, allowing users to wake up to freshly brewed coffee. The adjustable grinder provides flexibility to customize the grind size for different beans and desired tastes, and the option to use pre-ground coffee adds further versatility.
The Steep and Release technology and included gold-tone filter are intended to enhance the flavor extraction process. The LCD display is clear and easy to read, showing important information such as grind settings and number of cups. However, users should be mindful of the grinder’s noise level and the cleaning required to maintain optimal performance.
Pros
- Integrated grinder for fresh coffee
- Programmable auto-start for convenience
- Adjustable grind size for customized flavor
- Option to use pre-ground coffee
- Clear LCD display for easy operation
- Includes thermal carafe and gold-tone filter
Cons
- Grinder can be noisy during operation
- Requires regular cleaning to maintain performance
Breville Barista Pro Espresso Machine BES878BSS – Integrated grinder with dose control for fresh espresso.
The Breville Barista Pro aims to bring cafe-quality espresso to your home kitchen. Its integrated grinder and quick heating system promise a fast and efficient brewing process. The machine offers a good level of control over the grinding and extraction process, allowing for experimentation and customization.
The LCD display provides useful feedback, guiding users through the various stages. The included accessories are a nice addition, providing everything needed to get started. While the machine boasts impressive features, the learning curve may be steep for beginners.
Overall, the Barista Pro seems to be a well-designed machine for espresso enthusiasts.
Pros
- Integrated grinder with dose control for fresh espresso.
- Fast heat-up time with ThermoJet technology.
- Precise temperature control for optimal extraction.
- Manual microfoam milk texturing with powerful steam wand.
- Intuitive LCD interface for easy operation.
- Includes essential accessories like filter baskets and milk jug.
Cons
- May have a steep learning curve for beginners.
- Relatively high price point.
CASABREWS Ultra Espresso Machine with LCD Display – User-friendly LCD display.
The CASABREWS espresso machine aims to bring cafe-quality coffee to your home. It features a user-friendly LCD display and a built-in milk frother, making it suitable for various coffee drinks like lattes and cappuccinos. The machine allows for some customization with four brewing temperature settings (espresso only) and boasts a 20-bar pressure system for optimal extraction.
The milk frother is designed to create microfoam for latte art. A removable 73 oz water tank simplifies refilling. The machine emphasizes the importance of proper grind size, coffee dose, and tamping for the best espresso.
While easy to use overall, the machine requires some learning to achieve consistent results.
Pros
- User-friendly LCD display.
- Built-in milk frother for various coffee drinks.
- Adjustable brewing temperature (espresso only).
- 20-bar pressure system for optimal extraction.
- Removable large 73 oz water tank.
- Sleek stainless steel design.
Cons
- Temperature adjustment only applies to espresso brewing.
- Requires some practice to master optimal grind and tamping for consistent results.
Buying Guide: What to Look For in a Best Breville Espresso Machine Without Grinder
Understanding Your Needs: Choosing an Espresso Machine
Selecting the best Breville espresso machine without grinder requires careful consideration of your personal needs and preferences. Think about how often you’ll be making espresso, your level of experience, and your budget. Are you a beginner looking for simplicity or an experienced barista wanting full control? Do you prioritize speed and convenience, or are you willing to invest more time in the process for a superior result? Answering these questions will help you narrow down your options.
Key Features to Consider
When evaluating Breville espresso machines without grinder, pay close attention to these features: Temperature control (PID) ensures consistent extraction, while a powerful steam wand is essential for creating latte art. Pre-infusion helps to evenly saturate the coffee grounds, leading to better flavor. Also, consider the machine’s heat-up time, ease of use, and the quality of its construction. User-friendly controls and a durable design will enhance your overall experience.
Why Choose a Breville Espresso Machine without Grinder?
Opting for a Breville espresso machine without grinder offers flexibility. You can choose a separate grinder that best suits your needs, allowing you to experiment with different grind settings and bean types. This also allows for upgrading either the grinder or the espresso machine independently. Pre-ground coffee can also be used. Breville’s reputation for quality and innovation makes them a reliable choice for both beginners and experienced espresso enthusiasts.
Comparing Breville Models
Several Breville models stand out as excellent choices when searching for the best Breville espresso machine without grinder. The Bambino and Bambino Plus are compact and user-friendly, ideal for beginners. The Barista Pro offers more advanced features and control, appealing to experienced users. Consider your budget and desired level of control when comparing models.
Budget Considerations
Breville espresso machines without integrated grinders vary in price. The Bambino models are generally more affordable, while the Barista Pro sits at a higher price point. Consider your budget and the features that are most important to you when making your decision. Remember to factor in the cost of a separate grinder if you don’t already own one. The best Breville espresso machine meets your needs and your budget.
Accessories and Maintenance
Having the right accessories can improve your espresso-making experience. A good tamper, milk jug, and cleaning supplies are essential. Regular cleaning and descaling are crucial for maintaining your machine’s performance and longevity. Check the Breville website for recommended cleaning products and maintenance procedures.
Frequently Asked Questions about Best Breville Espresso Machine Without Grinder
What are the benefits of buying an espresso machine without an integrated grinder?
Choosing an espresso machine without an integrated grinder offers several advantages. It allows for greater flexibility in selecting a grinder that perfectly matches your needs and preferences, enabling you to experiment with different grind sizes and bean types. You can upgrade either the grinder or the espresso machine independently. It also opens the door to using pre-ground coffee if needed. This modular approach is ideal for enthusiasts who want more control over their coffee preparation.
What is PID temperature control, and why is it important in an espresso machine?
PID (Proportional-Integral-Derivative) temperature control is a sophisticated system that maintains a precise and consistent water temperature during the espresso extraction process. This is crucial for achieving optimal flavor and aroma in your espresso. Fluctuations in temperature can lead to under-extraction (sour taste) or over-extraction (bitter taste). PID ensures a balanced and flavorful shot every time, making it a valuable feature in any high-quality espresso machine.
What is the difference between the Breville Bambino and Bambino Plus?
The primary difference lies in their milk frothing capabilities. The Bambino features a manual steam wand, requiring more skill to achieve perfect microfoam. The Bambino Plus has an automatic steam wand with adjustable settings, allowing for consistent milk texturing with minimal effort. The Bambino Plus also includes an auto-purge function that automatically cleans the steam wand after each use. This makes it more convenient for beginners.
What type of grinder should I pair with a Breville espresso machine without grinder?
The ideal grinder depends on your budget and desired level of control. A burr grinder is essential for consistent grind size, which is critical for espresso. Conical burr grinders are generally quieter and produce less heat, while flat burr grinders offer greater precision. Look for a grinder with a wide range of grind settings and the ability to grind directly into a portafilter.
How often should I clean and descale my Breville espresso machine?
Regular cleaning is essential for maintaining your machine’s performance and longevity. Daily cleaning should involve wiping down the exterior and rinsing the portafilter. Backflushing with a cleaning tablet should be done weekly. Descaling, which removes mineral buildup, should be performed every 2-3 months, depending on your water hardness. Refer to your machine’s manual for specific cleaning instructions.
What is pre-infusion, and how does it affect espresso extraction?
Pre-infusion is a process where the coffee grounds are gently saturated with water before the full pressure of extraction is applied. This allows the grounds to bloom and release their flavors more evenly, resulting in a more balanced and flavorful espresso. Pre-infusion helps to reduce channeling, where water finds the path of least resistance through the coffee puck.
What are the benefits of a fast heat-up time in an espresso machine?
A fast heat-up time means you can enjoy your espresso sooner, especially valuable in the mornings. Machines with ThermoJet technology can heat up in as little as 3 seconds. This saves time and energy compared to machines that take several minutes to reach optimal temperature. A faster heat-up time is particularly beneficial for busy individuals.
What is the difference between manual and automatic milk frothing?
Manual milk frothing requires skill and practice to achieve the desired microfoam texture. It involves controlling the steam wand and creating a vortex in the milk to incorporate air. Automatic milk frothing simplifies the process with pre-set settings for different milk textures. While manual frothing offers more control, automatic frothing provides convenience and consistency, especially for beginners.
What accessories are essential for making espresso with a Breville machine?
Essential accessories include a high-quality tamper for compressing the coffee grounds, a milk jug for frothing milk, and cleaning supplies. Also consider a distribution tool to evenly distribute the coffee grounds in the portafilter. A scale can help with precise dosing, and different sized filter baskets can be useful for experimenting with different coffee recipes.
Can I use pre-ground coffee in a Breville espresso machine without an integrated grinder?
Yes, you can use pre-ground coffee. However, freshly ground beans are always recommended for optimal flavor and aroma. Pre-ground coffee loses its freshness quickly, which can affect the quality of your espresso. If you do use pre-ground coffee, store it in an airtight container in a cool, dark place. Grind size is also important.
Conclusion: The Final Verdict
The Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870XL is a solid option for coffee enthusiasts looking to create cafe-quality beverages at home. While it may require a bit of a learning curve, the integrated grinder and features make it a worthwhile investment for those serious about espresso.
