Breville Espresso Machine

Reddit pick
Value pick
Breville Bambino

Breville Bambino

Our Score: 9/10
Budget pick

Espresso is much more than just a strong cup of coffee; it’s a concentrated beverage that serves as a foundation for a wide variety of drinks like lattes, cappuccinos, and Americanos.

Its rich flavor and creamy texture are achieved through a complex process of precisely timed pressure and temperature, which extracts the coffee’s oils, aromatics, and soluble solids.

Our Pick

Breville Bambino Plus

The Breville Bambino Plus is a semi-automatic espresso machine that is perfect for beginners. It uses a pump to get the pressure right in your shot, making it easy enough for anyone to use. However, it still requires you to tamp your own shot and push the brew button, which gives you a sense of control over the brewing process.

Breville espresso machines are designed to harness this process, bringing the sophistication of a boutique coffeehouse into the comfort of your home. Known for their sleek designs and advanced technology, Breville machines range from entry-level models for beginners to high-end offerings for barista-level aficionados.

When considering a Breville espresso machine, prospective buyers should pay attention to the pressure gauge, temperature control, and milk frothing capabilities, as these factors greatly influence the quality of espresso extracted.

The pressure gauge helps ensure the right amount of pressure is applied to the coffee grounds, which is crucial for a proper extraction.

Temperature controls should be precise because even slight variations can affect the taste of the espresso.

For those who enjoy milk-based espresso drinks, the milk frothing mechanism is also important as it needs to produce a smooth, fine foam.

The purchase of an espresso machine is an investment in both money and counter space, so it is vital to find a machine that is not only functional but also fits your kitchen aesthetics and usage requirements.

We’ve dedicated hours to researching and using various Breville espresso machines to weigh their features, durability, and the quality of espresso they produce. Our goal is to determine which machine can consistently deliver that perfect cup.

Top Breville Espresso Machines

We’ve meticulously searched for the finest Breville espresso machines to help you craft barista-quality coffee at home. Our selection encompasses innovative models that cater to different preferences and budgets, while ensuring each choice delivers on the exceptional performance and reliability synonymous with the Breville brand.

Breville Barista Express

Breville Barista Express

Breville Barista Express

It’s a joy to witness the machine transforming our favorite beans into a rich, full-bodied espresso in under a minute. The built-in grinder’s precise dose control elevates the flavor profile of the espresso, hitting all the right notes every single time.

Adjusting the grind size is straightforward, offering great flexibility regardless of the coffee bean roast we choose.

We find the Breville Barista Express to be a wise choice for those seeking a sophisticated, yet user-friendly, at-home espresso experience.

Pros

  • Quick transition from whole beans to fresh espresso
  • Intuitive grind size dial for different bean types
  • Manual microfoam milk texturing for latte art

Cons

  • Steeper learning curve for beginners
  • Manual cleaning requires time and effort
  • Dependence on regular maintenance for longevity

Espresso enthusiasts will appreciate how the Breville Barista Express enhances our morning routine.

The PID temperature control is a standout feature, providing the exact heat needed for a perfect extraction. This precision ensures that each cup of espresso mirrors what we’d expect from a professional coffee shop.

The manual steam wand has been a game-changer for us. Creating latte art at home has never been more achievable.

The satisfaction of pouring that silky microfoam into a perfectly brewed espresso is an art form that any barista, amateur or seasoned, will enjoy mastering with the Breville Barista Express.

Despite the triumphs, there’s no denying that this machine demands dedication.

Initial setup and understanding the functions take patience, particularly for those new to espresso machines.

Maintenance is critical; we devote time to periodic cleaning and descaling to maintain the machine’s performance and longevity.

Investing this effort ensures that the Breville Barista Express remains a reliable companion in our coffee journey.

Crafting café-quality espresso at home is a rewarding endeavor. After having the Barista Express as an integral part of our daily grind, it’s clear this machine is tunable enough for the connoisseur, yet also approachable for the newcomer willing to learn—a truly balanced choice for both ends of the espresso spectrum.

Breville Bambino

Breville Bambino

Breville Bambino

The moment we unbox the Breville Bambino, its sleek stainless steel design impresses us. It doesn’t just look good; it feels sturdy and durable. The compact size proves a perfect fit for our counter, leaving plenty of space for other appliances.

We believe the Breville Bambino is well worth the investment for its speed and barista-quality results in a compact design.

Pros

  • Rapid heat-up time for quick espresso shots
  • High-quality microfoam for milk-based drinks
  • Robust build with a sleek stainless steel finish

Cons

  • Requires initial learning to perfect espresso shots
  • May not meet the expectations of professional baristas
  • Limited pre-set adjustments compared to larger machines

Turning it on, we’re delighted by the swift heat-up. In three seconds, it’s ready to pull a shot, which means our morning coffee routine just got faster.

The flavor of the espresso is rich and balanced, thanks to the pre-infusion technology that ensures an even extraction.

Milk-based coffee lovers will applaud the automatic steam wand. It takes the guesswork out of creating smooth, creamy microfoam, even letting us feel a bit like a barista crafting latte art.

However, mastering the full potential of the Bambino does require some practice and adjustment, especially for those new to home espresso making.

If we’re just stepping into the world of at-home espresso, or looking to upgrade from a simpler machine, the Breville Bambino provides both the features and the reliability we seek in a high-quality espresso machine.

It may have its limitations for seasoned coffee professionals, but it certainly serves up a superior cup for daily home use.

Breville Barista Touch

Breville Barista Touch

Breville Barista Touch

The brushed stainless steel exterior not only looks professional but also complements our kitchen decor. It even becomes a conversation starter when we have guests over!

Despite its stellar performance, we must acknowledge that the cost may deter some.

We think the Breville Barista Touch is ideal for anyone seeking cafe-quality espresso at home, thanks to its user-friendly interface and excellent performance.

Pros

  • Intuitive touchscreen simplifies the brewing process
  • Customizable settings allow for personalized coffee experiences
  • Built-in grinder and frother provide all-in-one convenience

Cons

  • Higher price point could be a barrier for some
  • Can require a learning curve for beginners
  • Some users report grinder issues over time

Brewing with the Breville Barista Touch feels like bringing the coffee shop into your kitchen.

Our mornings have been transformed; we’re able to craft a variety of espresso drinks with ease.

The machine’s touchscreen presents options clearly, and adjusting settings for our preferred strength and milk texture is straightforward.

We’ve found ourselves experimenting with flavors and grinds more than ever before, dialing in our ideal morning cup.

Maintaining this espresso machine has been a breeze, too. After each use, we wipe it down and run the cleaning cycle when prompted, keeping everything in top condition.

Additionally, those new to espresso may need time to get accustomed to the various options and settings.

Nevertheless, once we got the hang of it, the results were consistently impressive. It’s a trade-off that, in our view, is worth it for the quality of espresso and the versatility this machine delivers.

Breville Barista Express Impress

Breville Barista Express Impress

Breville Barista Express Impress

The brushed stainless steel exterior not only looks professional but also complements our kitchen decor. It even becomes a conversation starter when we have guests over!

Despite its stellar performance, we must acknowledge that the cost may deter some.

We think the Breville Barista Express Impress strikes a fine balance between convenience and control, making it a solid choice for home baristas who appreciate fine coffee.

Pros

  • Intuitive touch controls and fine-tuned automation
  • Quality construction with a compact, stylish design
  • Integrated grinder with a wide range of settings for fresh grounds

Cons

  • A premium price point reflecting its feature set
  • Can be a learning curve for espresso novices
  • Requires regular maintenance for peak performance

We’ve had the pleasure of using the Breville Barista Express Impress and it’s an experience worth talking about.

Right out of the box, this machine makes a statement with its brushed stainless steel finish. It not only looks professional sitting on the counter, but it also feels like it’s built to last. You can tell that Breville designed this with attention to detail.

The automated features are what set this machine apart. You get the impression of having a personal barista with the precision dosing and tamping.

The machine grinds the coffee beans exactly how you need them, and the Impress Puck System takes out the guesswork, providing consistency in every shot.

The first sip reveals complex flavors and a perfect crema that could easily be mistaken for a coffee shop quality espresso.

Maintaining the machine requires diligence.

Daily cleaning is imperative to ensure it continues to operate smoothly, which might be a bit much for those looking for a quick, low-effort coffee fix.

Also, given its array of functions and settings, there’s a learning curve. However, once you’ve dialed in your preferences, making your morning espresso becomes a quick, almost effortless routine.

Barista Pro by Breville

Barista Pro by Breville

Breville Barista Express Impress

The brushed stainless steel exterior not only looks professional but also complements our kitchen decor. It even becomes a conversation starter when we have guests over!

Despite its stellar performance, we must acknowledge that the cost may deter some.

We believe the Barista Pro by Breville is an excellent investment for coffee enthusiasts who crave café-quality espresso at home, thanks to its swift operation and user-friendly interface.

Pros

  • Quick heat-up time streamlines your morning routine
  • Intuitive interface eases the learning curve for beginners
  • Consistently grinds and extracts for peak flavor

Cons

  • Pricier than entry-level machines, reflecting its premium features
  • Initial setup and calibration may take time
  • Size may be bulky for smaller kitchen spaces

Upon first use, the Breville Barista Pro impressed us with its rapid heat-up time.

Unlike other machines that keep us waiting, our mornings were transformed with a cup of coffee at our fingertips in mere seconds.

The hands-on experience feels less like a daily grind and more like a seamless transition from sleep to caffeination.

The interactive display guides us step by step, whether pulling a rich shot or frothing the perfect microfoam.

Adjusting grind size and coffee strength is hassle-free, even for someone new to the espresso game.

As a testament to its user-friendly design, friends and family have easily crafted their cappuccinos while visiting us, with no prior experience.

Despite the sleek interface, there’s an unmistakable sturdiness to the Barista Pro that gives us confidence in its longevity.

Clean-up is straightforward, and the satisfaction of dialing in the grind for the precise flavor is unmatched.

It’s as if there’s a professional barista hidden within the machine, consistently delivering quality that never fails to start our day on a high note.

Breville Barista Touch Impress

Breville Barista Touch Impress

Breville Barista Touch Impress

The Breville Barista Touch Impress captures the essence of a professional espresso machine, merging style, speed, and precision. We’ve noticed the ThermoJet heating system is as quick as advertised, heating up in just 3 seconds, which is a godsend on busy mornings. Guided by its intuitive touchscreen, crafting a cup feels less like a manual task and more like an interactive coffee experience.

If you’re seeking a swift transition from whole beans to your morning cup with barista-level guidance, we think you’ll enjoy the Breville Barista Touch Impress.

Pros

  • Quick heat-up time with the ThermoJet heating system
  • Assisted tamping helps create the perfect puck easily
  • Integrated grinder offers 30 settings for a customized brew

Cons

  • Learning curve for beginners may be steep
  • Occasional software glitches reported by users
  • Higher price point compared to basic models

We appreciate the attention to detail Breville has invested in this machine’s design.

The Impress Puck System streamlines the process of making espresso—assisted tamping ensures consistent pressure and dose correction, making it easier to achieve a perfect extraction.

Playing around with the settings, we found you can really dial into personal preferences.

The auto steam wand is particularly clever, adapting seamlessly to different milk types, which is fantastic for those of us who enjoy alternatives like almond or soy milk.

Navigating the interface comes naturally after several uses, but beginners might take a little longer to get acquainted.

Some users have also mentioned intermittent software quirks which, although rare, can disrupt the brewing process. Lastly, the machine is pricier than simpler models, but given the plethora of advanced features, it’s understandable why.

Bambino Plus Espresso Machine

Bambino Plus Espresso Machine

Bambino Plus Espresso Machine

With just the right coordination of grind size, tamping, and machine settings, the espressos come out with a full body and an aromatic crema—it truly elevates the home coffee experience. The milk frother deserves a mention for its consistency, infusing just the right amount of air to achieve that velvety micro-foam.

If you’re seeking barista-quality coffee at home in a sleek, space-saving design, this machine is tailor-made for you.

Pros

  • Achieves a rich espresso with an impressive crema
  • User-friendly interface simplifies your morning routine
  • Compact form factor is perfect for tighter spaces

Cons

  • Learning curve may deter new users initially
  • Steeper price compared to entry-level options
  • Descaling process can be somewhat involved

In the comfort of our kitchen, the Bambino Plus makes brewing professional-grade espresso almost effortless.

The machine heats up swiftly, allowing us to indulge in a warm cup without the wait.

Despite this, we find the daily process soothing, a ritual that starts our mornings on the right note.

Storing the Bambino Plus is hassle-free due to its compact size. It nestles comfortably even in our modest kitchen counter, leaving room for prep and other appliances.

True, the investment may give you a slight pause, but if you’re serious about your coffee, the Bambino Plus doesn’t disappoint.

And let’s not forget maintenance: stay on top of the cleaning to ensure this machine keeps delivering cup after cup of café-style coffee.

Breville Infuser

Breville Infuser

We think the Breville Infuser is an excellent choice for those who value even extraction and taste precision in their espresso. Making a morning espresso can often feel mundane, but with the Breville Infuser, it turns into an engaging ritual.

The machine greets you warmly, almost beckoning for your favorite beans.

Pros

  • Ensures even extraction with pre-infusion function
  • Customizable settings allow for personalization
  • High-quality steam wand for microfoam milk texturing

Cons

  • A learning curve for beginners
  • Manual cleaning process can be tedious
  • May not accommodate all budgets

Once you’ve prepped the grounds, the low-pressure infusion gently coaxes out the rich flavors, resulting in not just a beverage but an experience.

The customization options of the machine stand out, from adjusting the volumetric control to tinkering with the temperature in 4°F increments.

Regardless of whether you’re dialing in the settings for a ristretto or a lungo, the machine has the flexibility and control you need.

On the flip side, there’s a bit of a learning curve. Newcomers to home espresso might find the array of options slightly daunting.

But give it time; as we have, you’ll grow accustomed to the controls.

The cleaning also calls for a hands-on approach, as you vigorously scrub to keep the Breville Infuser shining and performing at its peak.

While certainly worth the effort, it’s something to be mindful of when considering your purchase.

CASABREWS Espresso Marvel

CASABREWS Espresso Marvel

CASABREWS Espresso Marvel

This espresso maker from CASABREWS has won us over with its capability to produce professional-level coffee. After unpacking, its stainless steel exterior not only complements our kitchen but promises durability.

The 20-bar pressure pump impresses us every time, consistently extracting full-bodied espresso with a rich aroma.

In our experience, the CASABREWS Espresso Machine is a solid investment for coffee aficionados seeking a compact and efficient home barista experience.

Pros

  • Remarkably easy to create various espresso-based drinks
  • Superb milk frothing system for crafting latte art
  • Space-saving and stylish design suitable for most kitchens

Cons

  • Requires a cooldown period after milk frothing before brewing again
  • Lack of automatic features may require more hands-on operation
  • Water tank, although removable, has a modest capacity

Achieving the right flavor balance feels effortless, and when we’re in the mood for milk-based beverages, the steam wand works like a charm.

Crafting a velvety microfoam for lattes and cappuccinos is nearly as fun as sipping the drinks themselves.

Our day-to-day coffee routine has been greatly simplified with this machine.

It’s intuitive to use, which means we spend less time fiddling with settings and more time enjoying our brews.

Plus, when we have friends over, serving up barista-worthy drinks earns us quite the compliment.

Just keep in mind the necessary cooldown after frothing milk; this requires a brief pause before brewing can continue, but it’s a minor inconvenience given the overall performance.

Beyond these practical virtues, we must mention CASABREWS’s customer care promise.

They assure buyers of a one-year warranty and seem sincerely eager to help, which gives us greater peace of mind with this purchase.

All things considered, we’d say this espresso machine is a delightful addition to our coffee toolkit, suited for anyone eager to refine their home barista skills.

La Specialista Arte

La Specialista Arte

Having recently experimented with the La Specialista Arte, we found the grinding feature particularly impressive.

With eight settings, it catered effortlessly to our varied selection of beans. The resulting grounds were consistently fine and ready for a rich shot of espresso.

The ability to tweak water temperature for extraction was a game changer.

We believe this De’Longhi espresso machine strikes a beautiful balance between functionality and form, ideal for coffee enthusiasts looking to elevate their home barista skills.

Pros

  • Customizable grind settings cater to different bean varieties
  • Temperature control enhances flavor extraction from your choice of beans
  • Includes a milk frother for creating latte art at home

Cons

  • Initial learning curve for perfecting espresso shots
  • Grinder may require manual assistance at times
  • Some components may present durability concerns with frequent use

The three settings ensured that whether we used light or dark roast, the flavors were always fully unlocked, bringing the café experience right into our kitchen.

What made our mornings truly delightful, though, was the My Latte Art wand.

Crafting cappuccinos complete with personal frothy designs became not just a ritual but a creative outlet.

However, mastering the machine did take some time.

Initially, dialing in the grind and tamp pressure required patience and practice to achieve that perfect espresso.

Moreover, on occasion, we noticed the need to nudge the grinder to keep the beans moving.

This was a minor inconvenience but worth noting for those seeking a completely effortless process.

After extensive use, some parts appeared to wear down, raising questions about long-term durability.

It’s something to keep an eye on, but with proper care and maintenance, such issues can be mitigated.

Buying Guide

When we’re in the market for an espresso machine, it’s essential to consider several key features to ensure we get the best possible product for our needs. We’ll outline the aspects we should look for to make a confident decision.

Key Features to Consider

Budget:
It’s crucial to establish our budget before we start looking.

Espresso machines can range significantly in price, and determining our financial limit will help narrow down our options.

Size and Capacity:
We should consider the space we have available and how much coffee we intend to make.

A smaller machine may suffice for personal use, while larger capacity machines are better suited for frequent entertainers or households with multiple coffee drinkers.

Ease of Use:
Some espresso machines are more user-friendly than others.

If we value convenience, we’ll want to look for a machine with programmable settings and an intuitive interface.

Durability:
We want our investment to last.

Machines with metal components tend to be sturdier and more durable than those with plastic.

Must-Have Features

FeatureDescription
PressureAim for at least 9 bars, which is the standard for quality espresso.
Temperature ControlPrecise control is vital for extracting the best flavor.
Frothing CapabilityIf we enjoy milk-based drinks, a good quality steam wand is essential.

Additional Considerations

Maintenance:
Regular cleaning and descaling are vital for machine longevity and optimal flavor.

We should look for machines that are easy to maintain.

Customizable Settings:
A machine that allows us to adjust grind size, temperature, and extraction time gives us more control over the final cup.

Frequently Asked Questions

In this section, we cover some of the most common inquiries about Breville espresso machines to help you maintain your machine and enjoy the best coffee experience.

How do I properly clean my Breville espresso machine?

To ensure the longevity and performance of our Breville espresso machine, regular cleaning is essential.

We recommend descaling every 2-3 months, cleaning the drip tray daily, and wiping the machine exterior with a damp cloth frequently.

Always consult the user manual for model-specific cleaning instructions.

What are the steps for using a Breville Barista Express?

To use the Breville Barista Express, we start by grinding fresh beans into the portafilter, tamping evenly, then locking the portafilter in place.

We ensure the water tank is filled, select the desired shot size, and press the start button.

After brewing, steam milk if desired, using the steam wand for a creamy texture.

How long can I expect my Breville espresso machine to last?

Breville espresso machines are designed for durability.

With proper maintenance, like timely cleaning and descaling, we can expect them to last 5-10 years, depending on the model and frequency of use.

Can you troubleshoot common issues with Breville Bambino espresso machines?

Common issues with the Breville Bambino, such as irregular espresso flow or unusual noises, can often be resolved by cleaning the machine, descaling, or checking for blockages.

If these actions don’t solve the issue, refer to the troubleshooting section in the user manual or contact Breville support.

Why might one choose a Breville over other espresso machine brands?

One might choose Breville for its reputation for quality, innovative features such as integrated grinders and precise temperature control, and a range of models to suit different needs and budgets.

What factors contribute to the cost of Breville espresso machines?

The cost of Breville espresso machines is often influenced by construction quality, technological advancements, and additional features like built-in grinders.

We also consider the overall design aesthetic, the manufacturer’s warranty, and customer service in assessing value.