Which Breville Espresso Machine is Best for You? Buying Guide

Introduction

Breville’s lineup of at-home espresso machines offers options for every budget and preference. To help you decide which Breville espresso machine best suits your needs, we’ll compare each machine, from the basic models to the most advanced, detailing features, performance, and ideal use cases.

Breville Espresso Machine Lineup

1. Breville Duo-Temp Pro

The Duo-Temp Pro is Breville’s most essential and affordable espresso machine. Despite its simplicity, it delivers excellent espresso quality by focusing on core functionality.

• Features:
  • Manual brewing with a central dial for complete control.
  • Low-pressure pre-infusion for optimal extraction.
  • Filter baskets for pressurized and non-pressurized espresso allow use with pre-ground coffee or a separate grinder for higher quality.
• Performance:
  • 30 seconds to heat up to brewing temperature.
  • 58 seconds to steam milk to 60°C (140°F).
  • 30 seconds to switch from brewing to steaming.

Ideal For: Espresso beginners who want simplicity and affordability without sacrificing espresso quality.

2. Breville Infuser

The Infuser builds upon the Duo-Temp Pro by adding useful features, making it a solid mid-range option.

• Features:
  • Programmable single and double shot buttons for consistent extraction.
  • Analog pressure gauge to monitor shot quality.
  • Dedicated hot water outlet for Americanos or tea.
  • Adjustable extraction temperature for customizing brew temperature based on bean roast level.
• Performance:
  • Same as the Duo-Temp Pro in terms of heat-up and steam times.

Ideal For: Espresso enthusiasts with a moderate budget who value extra features for consistent results and added convenience.

3. Breville Barista Express

The Barista Express is Breville’s most popular model and includes a built-in grinder for fresh coffee on demand.

• Features:
  • Built-in burr grinder that grinds directly into the portafilter.
  • Single and double shot programming, plus the same pressure gauge and hot water outlet as the Infuser.
• Performance:
  • Identical to the Duo-Temp Pro and Infuser for heat-up and steam times.
• Ideal for: Users looking for an all-in-one solution with a built-in grinder that provides fresh espresso with each use.

4. Breville Bambino Plus

The Bambino Plus is designed for latte and cappuccino drinkers who want high-quality milk steaming and a compact design.

• Features:
  • Automatic milk steaming and texturing with three temperature and texture settings.
  • ThermoJet heating system enables faster operation.
  • Compact size and available in various colors.
• Performance:
  • 3 seconds to reach brewing temperature.
  • 13 seconds to switch from brewing to steaming.
  • 38 seconds to steam milk to 60°C (140°F).
• Drawbacks: No built-in grinder, hot water outlet, or adjustable extraction temperature.
• Ideal For: Latte and cappuccino lovers prioritising quick, easy milk steaming over manual espresso customization.

5. Breville Barista Pro

The Barista Pro combines the best elements of the Bambino Plus and Barista Express in a high-performance package.

• Features:
  • ThermoJet heating system for quick temperature transitions.
  • Enhanced grinder with finer adjustment options for precise dialing in.
  • 4-hole steam wand for advanced milk texturing.
  • Digital display for easy operation.
• Performance:
  • Same rapid heat-up and steaming times as the Bambino Plus.

Ideal For: Espresso enthusiasts seeking advanced performance, faster heating, and enhanced control without sacrificing convenience.

6. Breville Dual Boiler

The Dual Boiler is designed for severe espresso enthusiasts and those who make multiple milk-based drinks regularly.

• Features:
  • Separate boilers for brewing and steaming, allowing simultaneous operation.
  • Full-sized 58mm portafilter, programmable pre-infusion, and adjustable brew parameters.
  • Auto on/off timers for a ready-to-brew machine when needed.

Ideal For: Advanced users who value precision and efficiency, especially for making several milk-based drinks quickly.

7. Breville Oracle

The Oracle is Breville’s top-tier machine. It combines the power of the Dual Boiler with full automation for hands-free operation.

• Features:
  • Automatic grinding, tamping, brewing, and automatic milk steaming with temperature and texture customization.
  • Dual boilers for simultaneous brewing and steaming.

Ideal For: Those who want the ease of a super-automatic machine with the quality of a prosumer setup. The Oracle is unmatched in convenience, making it perfect for users who wish to barista-level espresso with minimal effort.

Summary Table

FAQs

1. Which Breville machine is best for beginners?

The Duo-Temp Pro is an excellent starting point due to its simplicity and affordability.

2. Which model is best for latte art and milk-based drinks?

The Bambino Plus and Barista Pro offer high-quality milk steaming, ideal for creating microfoam and latte art.

3. Do I need a separate grinder for these machines?

The Barista Express, Barista Pro, and Oracle include built-in grinders. Other models will require a separate grinder for fresh coffee grounds.

4. How does the ThermoJet heating system improve performance?

ThermoJet technology provides rapid heating and fast transitions between brewing and steaming, making it ideal for quick use.

5. Are the touch-screen models worth it?

Touch-screen models offer limited additional value over standard versions. Most users find that learning essential drink recipes can save money over the added expense of a touch-screen.

This guide from Best Coffee Espresso provides an overview to help you select the suitable Breville machine for your needs, whether you’re a beginner or an espresso lover. Enjoy exploring your perfect espresso match!