Choosing the perfect espresso machine can be overwhelming, especially with Breville’s renowned lineup. Our shopping guide makes it easy to compare Breville espresso machines, highlighting key features, performance, and value for your investment. Whether you’re a casual coffee lover or an aspiring home barista, find the ideal espresso maker to elevate your daily brew and deliver café-quality results right in your kitchen.
Breville Espresso Machines: Comparison Table
| Model Name | Grinder | Milk Frothing | Boiler Type | Control Interface | Footprint | Price Range | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bambino | No | Manual Steam Wand | ThermoJet | Simple Buttons | Very Compact | $ | Beginners, small kitchens |
| Bambino Plus | No | Auto/Manual Steam Wand | ThermoJet | Simple Buttons | Very Compact | $$ | Beginners, latte lovers |
| Barista Express | Yes | Manual Steam Wand | Thermocoil | Dial & Buttons | Medium | $$$ | Value seekers, all-in-one |
| Barista Express Impress | Yes | Manual Steam Wand | Thermocoil | Assisted Tamping | Medium | $$$ | Consistency, easy tamping |
| Barista Pro | Yes | Manual Steam Wand | ThermoJet | LCD Screen | Medium | $$$$ | Enthusiasts, customization |
| Barista Touch | Yes | Auto/Manual Steam Wand | ThermoJet | Touchscreen | Medium-Large | $$$$ | Convenience, presets |
| Dual Boiler | No | Manual Steam Wand | Dual Boiler | Buttons & LCD | Large | $$$$$ | Prosumer, expert control |
| Oracle | Yes | Auto/Manual Steam Wand | Dual Boiler | Touchscreen & Dials | Large | $$$$$$ | Advanced, high volume users |
| Oracle Touch | Yes | Auto/Manual Steam Wand | Dual Boiler | Full Touchscreen | Large | $$$$$$ | Ultimate automation |
| Infuser | No | Manual Steam Wand | Thermocoil | Buttons & Dial | Medium | $$ | Reliability, classic control |
| Duo Temp Pro | No | Manual Steam Wand | Thermocoil | Dial | Medium | $ | Simplicity, tight budgets |
| Cafe Roma | No | Manual Steam Wand | Thermoblock | Dial | Compact | $ | Entry-level, simplicity |
Key Features of Breville Espresso Machines
1. Brewing Technology
Breville espresso machines are known for their reliable technology, which bridges the gap between home convenience and café-level results:
- PID Temperature Control: Built into most models, this system ensures precise water temperature for consistently flavorful espresso.
- Pressure Consistency: All models use a 15-bar Italian pump or equivalent to deliver the optimal 9 bars of brewing pressure.
- Heating Systems:
- ThermoJet: Ultra-fast, 3-second heat-up; found in Bambino, Bambino Plus, Barista Pro, and Barista Touch.
- Thermocoil: Reliable heating coil on classic models like Barista Express, Infuser.
- Dual Boiler: Dedicated boilers for simultaneous brewing & milk steaming; in flagship models like Dual Boiler, Oracle, and Oracle Touch.
2. Built-in or External Grinder
- Integrated Grinder: Found in Barista Express, Barista Pro, Barista Express Impress, Barista Touch, Oracle, and Oracle Touch.
- Burr Grinders: Adjustable, provide consistent grind sizes for espresso. More control and convenience, but fewer grind steps than some standalone grinders.
- External Grinder Required: Bambino series, Infuser, Dual Boiler, and entry-level machines. Allows for pairing with premium specialty grinders.
3. Milk Frothing and Steaming
- Manual Steam Wand: Most models allow full control, ideal for learning or perfecting latte art.
- Automatic/Assisted Frothing: Found on Bambino Plus, Barista Touch, Oracle, and higher-end models. These auto-steam milk to preset textures and temperatures—great for beginners or multitasking.
- Plant-Based Milk Settings: Some newer models (Barista Touch Impress, Oracle Touch) tailor steaming cycles for dairy alternatives.
4. User Interface
- Buttons/Dials: Simple and robust; on entry and classic models.
- LCD Displays: Offer detailed feedback and menu options (Barista Pro, Dual Boiler).
- Touchscreens: Premium models like Barista Touch and Oracle Touch allow selecting drinks, adjusting recipes, and saving favorites.
5. Size & Build Quality
- Compact/Lightweight: Bambino, Bambino Plus, Cafe Roma—perfect for kitchens with limited counter space.
- Sturdy Stainless Steel: Across the lineup; promotes durability and a premium look.
- Larger Models: Barista range, Dual Boiler, and Oracle series require more counter space and are heavier but offer more features.
Usage and Safety for Home and Hobbyist Baristas
Getting Started
Breville machines are revered for their blend of user-friendliness and capacity for advanced espresso-making. Here are some key usage notes:
- Plug and Play: Most machines come with clear instructions and brew good coffee out-of-the-box.
- Accessories Included: Standard with most models—portafilter, tamper, milk jug, and basket filters.
Skill Levels
- Beginner: Bambino and Bambino Plus provide a gentle learning curve, especially with automated frothing.
- Intermediate: Barista Express, Barista Pro, and Barista Touch allow for more manual input and experimentation.
- Expert/Prosumer: Dual Boiler, Oracle, and Oracle Touch deliver the control and steam capacity to meet the needs of experienced espresso hobbyists.
Safety Tips
- Regular Cleaning: Prevents clogs, maintains performance, and extends machine life. Most models include cleaning reminders or alert lights.
- Descale as Recommended: Especially with hard water. Breville supplies descaling instructions in the manual.
- Use Fresh, Filtered Water: To avoid scaling and preserve espresso quality.
- Cool Down and Unplug: Always allow the machine to cool and unplug before deep cleaning or maintenance.
Practical Tips, Advice, and Best Practices
Choosing the Right Model
1. Assess Your Priorities
- Space: Compact models for small kitchens, larger for feature-rich convenience.
- Convenience vs. Control: Prefer pushing a button and getting a latte? Go for automatic milk frothers and touchscreens. Want to learn the craft? Manual interfaces and classic wands are your friends.
- Integrated Grinder: If counterspace or convenience is essential, opt for an all-in-one (Barista Express, Pro, etc.). For maximum quality, use a separate, high-end espresso grinder with Bambino, Infuser, or Dual Boiler.
- Budget: Entry-level starts around $300, flagship models exceed $2,000.
2. Match Features to Beverage Habits
- Espresso-Only: Any model suffices, but compact/non-grinder versions work great.
- Milk Drinks (Lattes, Cappuccinos): Seek auto-frothing, dual boilers, or powerful manual steam wands.
Maximizing Your Espresso Experience
- Invest in Fresh Coffee Beans: Freshly roasted beans elevate every cup.
- Dial in Your Grind: Adjust grind size and dose for each bean and palate.
- Purge Your Steam Wand: Wipe and pulse after each use to avoid milk residue and clogging.
- Temperature Surfing: Understand your machine’s heat cycle for optimal extraction, especially with single-boiler models.
Maintenance
- Wipe Down Daily: Keeps the machine (and kitchen) looking and functioning at its best.
- Backflush Regularly: Use water or cleaning tablets as recommended.
- Replace Water Filters: Helps prevent mineral buildup and keeps shots tasting fresh.
Technical Comparison Table: Breville Espresso Machines
| Model | Heating System | Grinder | Milk Frothing | Pre-Infusion | Display Type | Reservoir Size | Shot Customization | Automation Level |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bambino | ThermoJet | No | Manual Wand | Yes | Buttons | 47oz/1.4L | Manual/Timer | Semi-auto |
| Bambino Plus | ThermoJet | No | Auto/Manual Wand | Yes | Buttons | 64oz/1.9L | Manual/Timer | Semi-auto/Auto |
| Barista Express | Thermocoil | Yes | Manual Wand | Yes | Dial/Buttons | 67oz/2L | Programmable | Semi-auto |
| Barista Express Impress | Thermocoil | Yes | Manual | Yes | Assisted | 67oz/2L | Auto Dose/Tamp | Semi-auto/Assist |
| Barista Pro | ThermoJet | Yes | Manual | Yes | LCD | 67oz/2L | Programmable | Semi-auto |
| Barista Touch | ThermoJet | Yes | Auto/Manual | Yes | Touchscreen | 67oz/2L | Presets/Custom | Semi-auto/Auto |
| Dual Boiler | Dual Boiler | No | Manual | Yes | LCD/Buttons | 84oz/2.5L | Extensive | Manual |
| Oracle | Dual Boiler | Yes | Auto/Manual | Yes | LCD/Dials | 84oz/2.5L | Extensive | Super-auto |
| Oracle Touch | Dual Boiler | Yes | Auto/Manual | Yes | Touchscreen | 84oz/2.5L | Presets/Custom | Super-auto |
| Infuser | Thermocoil | No | Manual | Yes | Buttons/Dial | 61oz/1.8L | Programmable | Semi-auto |
| Duo Temp Pro | Thermocoil | No | Manual | Yes | Dial | 61oz/1.8L | Manual | Semi-auto |
| Cafe Roma | Thermoblock | No | Manual | No | Dial | 40oz/1.2L | Manual | Semi-auto |
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Conclusion
Breville espresso machines have earned their place among the most respected home espresso makers for good reason. Their blend of user-friendly operation, robust construction, and high-end features accommodates everyone—from those just starting their coffee journey to serious home baristas seeking perfection.
- If you want simplicity and speed, the Bambino or Bambino Plus are unbeatable for their compact size and streamlined experience.
- If you crave the all-in-one solution with a built-in grinder, the Barista Express and Barista Pro are well-balanced for value, control, and convenience.
- For those seeking the ultimate consistency and automation, the Oracle Touch and Dual Boiler are as close to a home café as you can get.
- Milk drinkers or latte lovers will also appreciate automatic frothing found on the Plus, Touch, and Oracle lines.
Whatever your choice, investing in a Breville machine means investing in a great daily coffee experience—one that’s easy to maintain, consistent, and always satisfying.
FAQ
- What is the best Breville espresso machine for beginners?
The Bambino Plus stands out for new users. Its compact size, quick heat-up, easy-to-understand controls, and automatic milk frothing create a forgiving environment for those starting their espresso journey.
- Do I need a separate coffee grinder for Breville machines?
If you choose a model like the Bambino, Bambino Plus, or Dual Boiler, yes—a good burr grinder is critical for quality espresso. However, Barista Express, Barista Pro, Touch, Oracle, and Oracle Touch have integrated grinders.
- Can Breville machines make milk-based drinks like lattes and cappuccinos?
Absolutely. All Breville machines feature a steam wand for milk frothing. Models like the Bambino Plus, Barista Touch, Oracle, and Oracle Touch even offer automatic frothing and temperature control, making milk drinks easier than ever.
- How do Breville’s heating systems differ, and why does it matter?
Breville offers ThermoJet (very fast heat-up), Thermocoil (classic reliability), and Dual Boiler systems (simultaneous brewing and steaming). ThermoJet is quick and efficient, Dual Boiler is best for demanding users needing to multitask, and Thermocoil balances affordability and performance.
- Are Breville espresso machines easy to clean and maintain?
Yes. Most models come with maintenance indicators (like ‘Clean Me’ lights), removable drip trays, and simple backflushing routines. Some higher-end models even include automated cleaning cycles.
- Can I adjust espresso strength and volume on Breville machines?
Yes. All models allow control over shot volume. Higher-end machines (Barista Pro, Barista Touch, Dual Boiler, Oracle series) also let you customize grind size, temperature, pre-infusion duration, and programmable drink settings.
- How important is a PID temperature controller?
Very! PID controllers, built into most Breville machines, regulate water temperature precisely, ensuring shot consistency and superior espresso flavor across multiple extractions.
- What warranty and support does Breville offer?
Most Breville espresso machines come with a one- or two-year limited warranty. Their customer service is well regarded, and many replacement parts and accessories are widely available.
- Are Breville machines good for making multiple drinks back-to-back?
Mid-range and higher models (Barista Pro, Dual Boiler, Oracle) handle multiple back-to-back drinks better thanks to larger water tanks, enhanced heating, and faster recovery times. Dual Boiler/Oracle series are the best in this regard.
- Do these machines work with pre-ground or pod coffee?
While most Breville espresso machines are designed for whole beans and fresh grinding (for best results), they all accept pre-ground coffee through provided filter baskets. For true pod compatibility, Breville also offers Nespresso partnership models, but these are different from the traditional machines discussed above.
Whatever your skill, taste, or budget, there’s a Breville espresso machine tailored for you. Take your time reviewing the features that matter most, and soon you’ll enjoy café-quality espresso at home, every single day.