For coffee aficionados seeking the ultimate convenience without sacrificing quality, a Breville superautomatic espresso machine represents a significant investment. These machines promise barista-level beverages at the touch of a button, but navigating the options can be overwhelming.
Choosing the best Breville superautomatic requires careful consideration of features, functionality, and long-term value. With so many models boasting similar capabilities, understanding the nuances that differentiate them is crucial.
This review article aims to simplify the process by highlighting key aspects to consider when selecting the best Breville superautomatic for your needs. We’ll explore the essential elements that contribute to a superior coffee experience, ensuring you make an informed decision and enjoy exceptional coffee for years to come.
IN THIS ARTICLE
Top 10 Best Breville Superautomatic Compared
π BEST OVERALL Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870XL
- Integrated grinder for fresh, on-demand coffee.
- Precise temperature control for optimal espresso extraction.
- Powerful steam wand for manual microfoam milk texturing.
- Adjustable grind settings to suit various bean types.
4.6/5
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π₯ 2ND RUNNER UP Breville Bambino Espresso Machine BES450BSS
- Automatic steam wand for adjustable milk texturing and microfoam creation.
- Fast 3-second heat-up time with Thermojet heating system.
- Low-pressure pre-infusion for even flavor extraction.
- Precise temperature control (PID) for optimal espresso extraction.
4.7/5
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οΏ½ BEST VALUE Breville Barista Touch Espresso Machine BES880BTR
- Integrated grinder with dose control for fresh espresso.
- Rapid 3-second heat-up time with ThermoJet technology.
- Automatic milk texturing for barista-quality microfoam.
- Intuitive touchscreen interface with customizable settings.
4.4/5
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Breville Barista Touch Impress Espresso Machine BES881DBL
- Step-by-step barista guidance with real-time feedback.
- Impress Puck System simplifies tamping and dosing.
- Alternative milk settings for various milk types.
- Rapid 3-second heat-up with ThermoJet technology.
4.5/5
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Breville Oracle Jet Espresso Machine
- Integrated Baratza burr grinder with 45 grind settings.
- Automated milk frothing with adjustable temperature and texture.
- ThermoJet heating system for fast heat-up.
- Barista Guidance feature for extraction optimization.
4.7/5
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Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine Bundle w/ B
- Encore ESP grinder offers sufficient grind settings for espresso and other brewing methods.
- Bambino Plus features rapid heating with the ThermoJet system.
- Includes helpful accessories like a 54mm portafilter and dosing cup.
- Automatic milk frothing simplifies latte preparation.
4.7/5
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Breville Barista Express Impress Espresso Machine BES876BSS
- Intelligent dosing system ensures consistent coffee grounds for each shot.
- Assisted tamping replicates professional barista technique.
- Integrated grinder with 25 settings allows for fine-tuning the grind size.
- Precise temperature control thanks to the Thermocoil heating system.
4.4/5
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Breville BCG820BSS Smart Grinder Pro
- 60 grind settings for various brewing methods
- Precise grind time adjustment with Dosing IQ
- Direct grinding into portafilters, containers, or filters
- Clear and informative LCD display
4.4/5
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Breville Barista Pro Espresso Machine BES878RVC
- Integrated grinder with dose control for fresh coffee.
- Fast heating system (ThermoJet) for quick espresso preparation.
- Precise temperature control (PID) for optimal extraction.
- Manual milk texturing with a powerful steam wand.
4.6/5
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Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine BES500BSS
- Fast 3-second heat-up time.
- Precise temperature control for consistent espresso extraction.
- Automatic steam wand for easy milk frothing.
- Compact footprint ideal for small kitchens.
4.4/5
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Detailed Reviews of the Best Breville Superautomatic
Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870XL – Integrated grinder for fresh, on-demand coffee.
The Breville Barista Express aims to bring cafe-quality espresso to the home user with its integrated grinder and user-friendly design. The built-in conical burr grinder allows for on-demand grinding, delivering freshly ground coffee directly to the portafilter. The machine features precise temperature control and low-pressure pre-infusion, contributing to consistent espresso extraction.
The steam wand provides the ability to create microfoam milk for latte art. A range of accessories are included, such as a dosing tool, portafilter, and cleaning supplies. The Barista Express offers adjustable grind settings and dose control, catering to different bean types and personal preferences.
While it provides a comprehensive espresso-making experience, beginners may find the manual milk texturing and grind adjustments require some practice to master.
Pros
- Integrated grinder for fresh, on-demand coffee.
- Precise temperature control for optimal espresso extraction.
- Powerful steam wand for manual microfoam milk texturing.
- Adjustable grind settings to suit various bean types.
- Includes a variety of useful accessories.
- Relatively compact design for an all-in-one machine.
Cons
- Manual milk texturing requires practice.
- 1-year limited warranty may be short for some users.
Breville Bambino Espresso Machine BES450BSS – Automatic steam wand for adjustable milk texturing and microfoam creation.
This espresso machine aims to bring barista-quality coffee to your home. The 54mm portafilter holds 19 grams of coffee, promising a full-flavored espresso. The automatic steam wand is a key feature, offering adjustable milk temperature and texture for creating microfoam, potentially simplifying latte art.
The Thermojet heating system boasts a quick 3-second heat-up time. Low-pressure pre-infusion is included to evenly extract flavors. Digital temperature control (PID) ensures precise water temperature for optimal extraction.
The control panel offers straightforward selection for 1 or 2 cups, a steam button, and adjustable milk settings. A 1-year limited warranty provides some peace of mind.
Pros
- Automatic steam wand for adjustable milk texturing and microfoam creation.
- Fast 3-second heat-up time with Thermojet heating system.
- Low-pressure pre-infusion for even flavor extraction.
- Precise temperature control (PID) for optimal espresso extraction.
- Relatively user-friendly control panel.
Cons
- Only a 1-year limited warranty, which is relatively short compared to some competitors.
- 54mm portafilter limits compatibility with some accessories.
Breville Barista Touch Espresso Machine BES880BTR – Integrated grinder with dose control for fresh espresso.
The Breville Barista Touch aims to bring the cafe experience home with its integrated grinder and automated features. The machine boasts a rapid 3-second heat-up time and precise temperature control for optimal espresso extraction. The touchscreen interface is intuitive, guiding users through the grinding, brewing, and milk frothing processes.
The automatic milk texturing is a notable feature, allowing for customizable microfoam. With pre-programmed settings and the ability to save personalized coffee preferences, the Barista Touch caters to individual tastes. The included accessories provide a comprehensive starting point, making it easier to get started.
Overall, it appears to be a user-friendly and feature-rich machine for espresso enthusiasts.
Pros
- Integrated grinder with dose control for fresh espresso.
- Rapid 3-second heat-up time with ThermoJet technology.
- Automatic milk texturing for barista-quality microfoam.
- Intuitive touchscreen interface with customizable settings.
- Precise temperature control for optimal espresso extraction.
- Includes a variety of useful accessories.
Cons
- Relatively large footprint due to integrated components.
- Price point may be prohibitive for some consumers.
Breville Barista Touch Impress Espresso Machine BES881DBL – Step-by-step barista guidance with real-time feedback.
The Barista Touch Impress aims to simplify the espresso-making process with its integrated features. The step-by-step barista guidance and real-time feedback are helpful, especially for those new to home espresso. The Impress Puck System, with its assisted tamping and intelligent dosing, seems promising for consistent puck preparation.
The alternative milk settings are a welcome addition for users who prefer non-dairy options. The ThermoJet heating system’s rapid heat-up time is definitely a plus. The touchscreen interface is intuitive, and the preset drink options offer convenience.
However, the complexity of features might be overwhelming for some users, and the price point reflects its advanced capabilities. Overall, itβs a feature-rich machine designed to deliver a cafΓ©-quality experience at home.
Pros
- Step-by-step barista guidance with real-time feedback.
- Impress Puck System simplifies tamping and dosing.
- Alternative milk settings for various milk types.
- Rapid 3-second heat-up with ThermoJet technology.
- Intuitive touchscreen interface with preset options.
- Integrated burr grinder with 30 grind settings.
Cons
- The multitude of features might be overwhelming for some users.
- Price point is considerably high.
Breville Oracle Jet Espresso Machine – Integrated Baratza burr grinder with 45 grind settings.
The espresso machine boasts several impressive features aimed at replicating the cafΓ© experience at home. The integrated Baratza burr grinder with its wide range of grind settings offers considerable control over the coffee extraction process. The automated milk frothing system, with its settings for various milk types and textures, is a definite plus.
The ThermoJet heating system ensures quick heating and claims to be energy efficient. The ‘Barista Guidance’ feature, which helps adjust grind size for optimal extraction, is a unique addition that may prove useful for users. Overall, this machine appears to offer a comprehensive set of tools for aspiring home baristas, with a focus on automation and precision.
Pros
- Integrated Baratza burr grinder with 45 grind settings.
- Automated milk frothing with adjustable temperature and texture.
- ThermoJet heating system for fast heat-up.
- Barista Guidance feature for extraction optimization.
- Professional style 58mm stainless steel portafilter.
- Cold brew and cold espresso functionality.
Cons
- Complexity may be overwhelming for beginners.
- Price point is likely to be high.
Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine Bundle w/ B – Encore ESP grinder offers sufficient grind settings for espresso and other brewing methods.
The Baratza Encore ESP and Bambino Plus combination offers a convenient entry point into home espresso making. The Encore ESP grinder provides a decent range of grind settings, particularly useful for espresso, though some users might find the adjustment process a bit fiddly. The Bambino Plus heats up quickly thanks to the ThermoJet system, saving time and energy.
The 54mm portafilter is a good size for home use, and the included dosing cup helps minimize mess. The automatic milk frothing function is a nice touch for beginners, though experienced users might prefer manual control. The interactive setup guide is a welcome addition, making the initial setup process easier.
Pros
- Encore ESP grinder offers sufficient grind settings for espresso and other brewing methods.
- Bambino Plus features rapid heating with the ThermoJet system.
- Includes helpful accessories like a 54mm portafilter and dosing cup.
- Automatic milk frothing simplifies latte preparation.
- Interactive setup guide for easy initial setup.
- ThermoJet system uses less energy compared to Thermoblock systems.
Cons
- Grind adjustment on the Encore ESP may feel a bit fiddly for some users.
- Automatic milk frothing might not appeal to experienced baristas seeking full control.
Breville Barista Express Impress Espresso Machine BES876BSS – Intelligent dosing system ensures consistent coffee grounds for each shot.
The Barista Express Impress aims to simplify the manual espresso-making process at home. The Impress puck system, with its intelligent dosing and assisted tamping, appears to be the main draw, automating key steps for consistency. The integrated conical burr grinder offers 25 settings for dialing in the grind size.
The Thermocoil heating system with PID control should provide precise temperature control, important for extraction. The microfoam steam wand allows for milk texturing. The included accessories, such as the portafilter, milk jug, and filter baskets, are a plus.
The machine offers a decent bean hopper and water tank capacity for home use. However, potential buyers should consider if the automated features truly replicate the experience and control of a skilled barista.
Pros
- Intelligent dosing system ensures consistent coffee grounds for each shot.
- Assisted tamping replicates professional barista technique.
- Integrated grinder with 25 settings allows for fine-tuning the grind size.
- Precise temperature control thanks to the Thermocoil heating system.
- Microfoam steam wand for creating latte art.
- Includes a comprehensive set of accessories.
Cons
- The reliance on automated features might limit the control of experienced users.
- Learning curve might still be present for new users to fully master the machine’s functionalities.
Breville BCG820BSS Smart Grinder Pro – 60 grind settings for various brewing methods
The Breville Smart Grinder Pro offers a wide range of customization for coffee grinding, boasting 60 different grind settings to cater to various brewing methods, from espresso to French press. The Dosing IQ feature allows for precise grind time adjustments in 0.2-second increments, offering a good level of control over the final product. The grinder can dispense directly into portafilters, containers, or filters, adding to its versatility.
The LCD display is clear and informative, showing relevant information such as grind setting and time. Included accessories, like the portafilter cradles and cleaning brush, are a nice addition. Overall, this grinder appears to be a solid option for home brewers seeking greater control and precision in their coffee preparation.
Pros
- 60 grind settings for various brewing methods
- Precise grind time adjustment with Dosing IQ
- Direct grinding into portafilters, containers, or filters
- Clear and informative LCD display
- Includes useful accessories (portafilter cradles, cleaning brush)
Cons
- 165 Watts may be considered low power for heavy usage.
- Bean hopper capacity (18oz) could be limiting for some users.
Breville Barista Pro Espresso Machine BES878RVC – Integrated grinder with dose control for fresh coffee.
The Breville Barista Pro aims to bring cafe-quality espresso into the home. Its integrated grinder and rapid heat-up system promise a quick transition from beans to espresso. The machine offers dose control grinding, precise temperature control, and low-pressure pre-infusion for balanced extraction.
The steam wand allows for manual microfoam milk texturing, enabling latte art creation. An LCD display provides helpful information and animations. Included accessories such as filter baskets, a milk jug, and cleaning tools add value.
With its adjustable grind settings and volumetric control, the Barista Pro offers a customizable espresso experience.
Pros
- Integrated grinder with dose control for fresh coffee.
- Fast heating system (ThermoJet) for quick espresso preparation.
- Precise temperature control (PID) for optimal extraction.
- Manual milk texturing with a powerful steam wand.
- Intuitive LCD interface with helpful information.
- Includes useful accessories like filter baskets and milk jug.
Cons
- Relatively large footprint due to integrated design.
- Higher price point compared to basic espresso machines.
Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine BES500BSS – Fast 3-second heat-up time.
The Breville Bambino Plus aims to bring cafΓ©-quality espresso to your home with its compact design and user-friendly features. It boasts a rapid 3-second heat-up time thanks to its ThermoJet system, and the PID temperature control ensures consistent espresso extraction. The automatic steam wand simplifies milk frothing, allowing users to customize temperature and texture.
The machine also has an auto-purge function to maintain optimal brewing temperature. With a 54mm portafilter designed for 19 grams of coffee, it aims for a full-bodied flavor. While it offers a lot in a small package, potential buyers should be aware of the usual trade-offs associated with compact machines, such as a smaller water reservoir and drip tray capacity.
Pros
- Fast 3-second heat-up time.
- Precise temperature control for consistent espresso extraction.
- Automatic steam wand for easy milk frothing.
- Compact footprint ideal for small kitchens.
- Auto-purge function maintains optimal brewing temperature.
Cons
- Smaller water reservoir and drip tray may require frequent emptying.
- Price point may be a barrier for budget-conscious consumers.
Buying Guide: What to Look For in a Best Breville Superautomatic
Understanding Breville Espresso Machines: Are They Superautomatic?
The term “superautomatic” typically refers to machines that automate almost every step of espresso making, from grinding beans to tamping and brewing. While Breville offers some models with a high degree of automation, it’s important to note that many of their popular machines, like the Barista Express, Barista Pro, and even some Barista Touch models, are technically *semi-automatic* or *automatic* espresso machines. These models require some manual intervention, particularly in tamping. The Breville Oracle series is the closest to a true superautomatic within the Breville lineup. Understanding the level of automation is crucial when choosing the best Breville superautomatic for your needs.
Key Features to Consider When Choosing a Breville Espresso Machine
When searching for the best Breville superautomatic or automatic espresso machine, several factors come into play. Firstly, consider the level of automation you desire. Do you want a fully automatic experience like the Oracle, or are you comfortable with some manual steps? Secondly, evaluate the grinder. Integrated grinders are a great convenience. Thirdly, milk frothing capabilities are important for latte and cappuccino lovers. Automatic milk frothing, as seen in the Bambino Plus and Oracle, greatly simplifies milk preparation. Finally, consider the machine’s footprint, ease of cleaning, and the availability of features like pre-infusion and precise temperature control.
Comparing Breville Models: Finding the Right Fit
The Breville range offers a variety of options, each with its strengths. The Barista Express is a popular choice for those who enjoy a hands-on experience and want to control grind settings and tamping. The Barista Pro offers similar features with a faster heating system and LCD interface. The Barista Touch adds touchscreen controls and automatic milk texturing. The Oracle and Oracle Touch are the most automated, handling tamping and milk frothing automatically. The Bambino series offers a compact and affordable entry point with fast heating. Consider your budget, desired level of automation, and the importance of features like integrated grinders and automatic milk frothing when comparing models to find the best Breville superautomatic for your needs.
Accessories and Maintenance for Your Breville Espresso Machine
Regardless of which Breville espresso machine you choose, proper maintenance is essential for longevity and optimal performance. Regular cleaning of the grinder, brew head, and milk frothing wand is crucial. Descaling the machine regularly will prevent mineral buildup. Many Breville machines come with helpful accessories, such as filter baskets, cleaning tools, and milk jugs. Investing in a good tamper (if your machine requires manual tamping) can improve espresso quality. Taking care of your machine will ensure that it continues to deliver delicious espresso for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions about Best Breville Superautomatic
What does “superautomatic” mean in the context of espresso machines?
A superautomatic espresso machine automates nearly every step of the espresso-making process. This includes grinding the beans, tamping the grounds, brewing the espresso, and often even frothing the milk. The user simply fills the bean hopper and water reservoir, selects their desired settings, and the machine does the rest. This contrasts with semi-automatic machines, which require more manual intervention, particularly in tamping the coffee grounds. The Breville Oracle series is the closest to a true superautomatic, offering an all-in-one solution.
Which Breville espresso machine is the most automated?
The Breville Oracle and Oracle Touch models are the most automated within the Breville lineup. They feature an integrated grinder, automatic tamping, and automatic milk frothing. These machines aim to replicate the experience of a professional barista with minimal user intervention. While other Breville models offer some level of automation, the Oracle series handles most of the tasks automatically, making it the closest to a true superautomatic espresso machine in the Breville range.
What are the benefits of an integrated grinder in a Breville espresso machine?
An integrated grinder offers several advantages. It ensures that you are using freshly ground coffee beans, which significantly improves the flavor and aroma of your espresso. It also eliminates the need for a separate grinder, saving counter space and simplifying the brewing process. Integrated grinders allow for precise control over grind size, which is crucial for achieving optimal espresso extraction. The best Breville superautomatic models with integrated grinders offer various grind settings to suit different bean types and preferences.
How important is temperature control for espresso extraction?
Precise temperature control is crucial for optimal espresso extraction. The ideal water temperature allows for the proper extraction of flavors and aromas from the coffee grounds without burning them. Breville espresso machines often feature PID (Proportional-Integral-Derivative) temperature control, which maintains a consistent and accurate brewing temperature. This ensures that each shot of espresso is extracted evenly and delivers a balanced and flavorful cup. Variations in temperature can lead to bitter or sour tasting espresso.
What is the difference between a Thermoblock and a ThermoJet heating system?
Thermoblock and ThermoJet are both heating systems used in espresso machines, but they differ in their approach. A Thermoblock heats water as it passes through a metal block, providing on-demand heating. The ThermoJet system, found in some Breville models, heats up much faster (often in just 3 seconds) and uses less energy. The ThermoJet offers faster heating and greater temperature stability. This rapid heating is particularly beneficial for those who want to quickly prepare espresso.
What features should I look for if I want to make lattes and cappuccinos?
If you enjoy lattes and cappuccinos, consider a Breville espresso machine with a powerful steam wand or automatic milk frothing. A steam wand allows you to manually texture milk, creating microfoam for latte art. Automatic milk frothing simplifies the process, delivering consistent results with adjustable temperature and texture settings. Machines like the Bambino Plus and Oracle offer automatic milk frothing, while the Barista Express and Pro feature manual steam wands.
How do I maintain my Breville espresso machine to ensure its longevity?
Regular maintenance is essential for extending the lifespan of your Breville espresso machine. This includes cleaning the grinder, brew head, and milk frothing wand after each use. Descaling the machine regularly is crucial to prevent mineral buildup. Refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for specific cleaning procedures. Proper maintenance ensures that your machine continues to deliver consistent and delicious espresso for years to come.
What accessories are typically included with Breville espresso machines?
Breville espresso machines often come with a variety of useful accessories, such as filter baskets (single and dual wall), a tamper (for models requiring manual tamping), a milk jug, cleaning tools, and a water filter. The specific accessories included may vary depending on the model. These accessories help you get started with making espresso right away and aid in maintaining the machine’s performance.
Is the Breville Barista Express considered a superautomatic espresso machine?
No, the Breville Barista Express is not considered a superautomatic espresso machine. While it features an integrated grinder, it requires manual tamping of the coffee grounds. This means that the user must manually compress the grounds in the portafilter before brewing. A true superautomatic machine would automate this step. The Barista Express is more accurately classified as a semi-automatic or automatic espresso machine.
What is the importance of grind settings on a Breville espresso machine?
The grind setting is crucial for achieving optimal espresso extraction. A finer grind is typically used for espresso, as it increases the surface area of the coffee grounds and allows for a more thorough extraction. The ideal grind setting will vary depending on the type of coffee beans you are using. The ability to adjust the grind size allows you to fine-tune the extraction process and achieve the desired flavor profile. The best Breville superautomatic models offer a wide range of grind settings.
Conclusion: The Final Verdict
The Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870XL is a solid choice for those looking to upgrade their home coffee experience and enjoy cafe-quality espresso. While it requires some user input and practice, the machine offers a comprehensive set of features and a relatively easy-to-use design, making it a worthwhile investment for coffee enthusiasts.
