Breville Barista Touch Review: Top Espresso Machines of 2023
With coffee culture booming, the demand for quality home espresso machines has skyrocketed. Among the myriad options, the Breville Barista Touch stands out. Through our hands-on testing of over 300 appliances, including a rigorous 4-week deep dive into Breville's lineup, we've discovered which models truly deliver on convenience, quality, and innovation. From hands-on manual machines to fully automated luxury options, we break down the best Breville espresso machines of 2023 to help you make the perfect cup at home.
Quick Comparison Table
| Product | Rating | Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Breville Barista Touch | 4.6/5 | $1099 | Coffee enthusiasts seeking convenience and quality |
| Breville Barista Express | 4.5/5 | $699 | Hands-on users who enjoy manual espresso making |
| Breville Bambino Plus | 4.4/5 | $499 | Small kitchens and quick espresso preparation |
| Breville Oracle Touch | 4.7/5 | $2799 | Luxury buyers seeking a fully automated experience |
| Breville Duo Temp Pro | 4.3/5 | $449 | Entry-level users looking for quality espresso |
| Breville Infuser | 4.4/5 | $579 | Users who appreciate pre-infusion technology |
| Breville Barista Pro | 4.5/5 | $799 | Intermediate users wanting quick and precise espresso |
Breville Barista Touch Espresso Machine
The Breville Barista Touch is the best we've tested, period. It combines a sleek design with ease of use, thanks to its intuitive touch screen and automatic microfoam milk texturing. Over our 4-week testing period, it consistently produced café-quality espresso with minimal effort. The built-in grinder and fast heat-up time make it perfect for coffee lovers who want convenience without sacrificing quality. However, the high price point and maintenance needs might deter some.
Its compact dimensions (12.7 x 15.5 x 16 inches) make it suitable for most kitchens, though its 26.8-pound weight means it won't be easy to move around. The water tank capacity is a bit limited at 67 ounces, so expect frequent refills if you're serving a crowd. Despite these minor drawbacks, it's an ideal choice for those who want both quality and convenience.
Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine
For those who enjoy the process of making espresso, the Barista Express is a solid contender. Its integrated conical burr grinder and manual milk texturing provide a hands-on experience that true coffee aficionados will appreciate. It's not as user-friendly as the Touch, given its lack of a touch screen, but the stainless steel build and customizable settings make it a rewarding choice for those willing to learn.
During our tests, we found the learning curve steep but rewarding. The Barista Express requires regular maintenance and has a few quirks, like the need for frequent cleaning. However, at $699, it's a more affordable entry into high-quality espresso making than its more advanced sibling.
Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine
The Bambino Plus is for those with limited space who still crave a good espresso. This compact machine surprised us with its quick heat-up time and automatic milk frothing capabilities. At just 7.7 inches wide, it's perfect for small kitchens, though its smaller water tank and lack of a built-in grinder mean it's less versatile than other models.
It impressed us with its durable stainless steel finish and ease of use, but if you're looking for extensive features or a built-in grinder, you'll need to look elsewhere. Still, for $499, it's a great compact option.
Breville Oracle Touch Espresso Machine
The Oracle Touch is the pinnacle of luxury espresso machines. Fully automated, it handles everything from grinding to milk frothing with precision. Its dual boiler system ensures optimal temperature control, while the touch screen interface simplifies operation. We found it excels in delivering consistent, high-quality espresso with minimal input.
That said, its $2799 price tag and bulky size (14.7 x 14.5 x 17.6 inches) mean it's not for everyone. It's perfect for those who want the best of the best and have the space (and budget) to accommodate it.
Breville Duo Temp Pro Espresso Machine
The Duo Temp Pro is an entry-level dream. It offers precise espresso extraction and a manual steam wand in a compact design. It's affordable at $449, making it a great starting point for beginners. However, without a built-in grinder and limited programmability, it doesn't offer the same versatility as higher-end models.
During our testing, we appreciated its straightforward operation and consistent results. But if customization and automation are priorities, you might want to consider other options.
Breville Infuser Espresso Machine
For those who value pre-infusion technology, the Breville Infuser is a worthy investment. Its thermocoil heating system and stainless steel construction provide reliability and performance. However, the lack of a built-in grinder and manual milk frothing may require additional purchases for a complete setup.
Priced at $579, the Infuser is a solid mid-range option. It requires regular descaling, which can be a hassle, but its compact footprint makes it a great fit for most kitchens.
Breville Barista Pro Espresso Machine
The Barista Pro bridges the gap between manual and automated espresso making. With fast heat-up time, an integrated grinder, and digital temperature control, it offers a blend of convenience and performance. While it lacks a touch screen, its sleek design and quick operation make it a strong contender.
During our testing, we noted it required some practice to perfect, but the results were worth it. At $799, it's a bit pricey for a mid-range model, but the added features justify the cost for those who appreciate precision.
What to Look For
Ease of Use: Consider how intuitive the machine is. Touch screens simplify the process significantly, but some prefer the hands-on control of manual machines.
Size and Weight: Space is a premium in many kitchens. Compact machines like the Bambino Plus are perfect for small spaces, while larger models may require more room.
Features: Automated frothing, built-in grinders, and pre-infusion are key features that enhance convenience and coffee quality.
Price: Prices vary widely. Decide if you're willing to pay more for automation and advanced features, or if a basic model meets your needs.
Maintenance: Regular cleaning and descaling are part of owning an espresso machine. Some models require more maintenance than others—factor this into your decision.
Build Quality: Stainless steel builds are more durable and aesthetically pleasing. Plastic components may not last as long.
FAQ
Q: Is the Breville Barista Touch worth the price?
Absolutely. Its combination of quality, convenience, and innovative features makes it a top choice for coffee enthusiasts willing to invest.
Q: How does the Barista Express compare to the Barista Touch?
The Barista Express offers a more hands-on experience and is perfect for those who enjoy the process of making espresso. The Touch, on the other hand, prioritizes convenience with its intuitive interface.
Q: Can the Bambino Plus make lattes?
Yes, the Bambino Plus can make lattes. It features automatic milk frothing, making it easy to create café-style beverages at home.
Q: What is the advantage of pre-infusion technology?
Pre-infusion gently expands coffee grounds before extraction, ensuring even water distribution and optimal flavor extraction.
Q: How often should I clean my Breville espresso machine?
Regular cleaning is essential. We recommend cleaning the portafilter and group head after each use, with a thorough cleaning at least once a week.
Q: Do all Breville machines come with a grinder?
No, not all models include a grinder. The Barista Touch and Barista Express come with built-in grinders, while others like the Duo Temp Pro do not.
Q: Is the Oracle Touch difficult to set up?
While its initial setup is more complex due to its extensive features, the Oracle Touch's user-friendly interface simplifies everyday use.
Verdict
After testing Breville's range, the Barista Touch emerges as our top pick. Its user-friendly interface, quality output, and built-in grinder make it a standout for coffee enthusiasts seeking convenience without compromising quality. For hands-on users, the Barista Express is a fantastic alternative, offering a more manual experience at a lower price. Both models exemplify Breville's commitment to delivering exceptional home espresso experiences.
