Breville Barista Touch Espresso Machine Review
A Review of the Breville Barista Touch Espresso Machine
The Breville Barista Touch Espresso Machine is undoubtedly an investment, but for those who appreciate a quality cup of coffee and want to break free from the daily coffee shop routine, it's well worth considering, especially if you can catch it on sale. At the time of purchase, it was priced at approximately $799, and while it may seem steep, the value it brings to your coffee experience is substantial. If you're a frequent visitor to coffee shops like Starbucks, you'll quickly realize that the Barista Touch pays for itself. With daily coffee shop visits, the costs add up over time, but with this machine, you can enjoy barista-quality coffee at home, including the purchase of premium coffee beans.
The Breville Barista Touch stands out for its exceptional build quality and user-friendly touch screen interface. The touch screen makes operation incredibly easy, and the machine's design includes thoughtful features like an easily cleanable drip tray and a hassle-free froth wand. While the included tamper is sufficient, some users prefer a spring-loaded tamper and a grind distributor for even better results. The grinder, which is built into the machine, allows you to customize your grind size to match your brewing preferences, whether you prefer a fine or coarse grind. The Barista Touch also shines in its ability to create a consistent coffee experience by allowing you to program and customize your favorite coffee recipes, making it a standout choice for coffee enthusiasts.
One of the standout features of the Barista Touch is its user-friendly touch screen, which simplifies the coffee-making process. It comes with preprogrammed coffee options that are adjustable, and you can even create your custom coffee recipes, assigning them unique icons for easy access. The built-in grinder is a game-changer, offering the flexibility to adjust the grind size to suit your taste. The generous water tank, located at the back of the machine, ensures you can brew multiple cups before needing a refill. However, one minor downside is the grinder, which may require some effort when switching between coffee bean brands. Overall, the Breville Barista Touch offers an exceptional coffee-making experience that surpasses entry-level machines, making it a worthy upgrade for coffee lovers seeking cafe-quality beverages at home.
While the Breville Barista Touch impresses in many aspects, one minor issue is the frothing wand's positioning during self-cleaning. It doesn't align perfectly with the drain pan hole, causing potential splashes. A slight adjustment to the drain pan hole size could resolve this issue. Nevertheless, this minor inconvenience does not significantly detract from the overall excellence of this coffee machine, which consistently delivers exceptional coffee quality.How Does This Set Compare to Others?
We compiled data from various sources to provide some ratings about how this particular item compares to others of the same brand, and other comparable items from other brands.
| This Machine | This Brand | All Coffee & Espresso | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Blending Power | 4.5 | 4.25 | 4.25 |
| Easy to Clean | 4.2 | 4.34 | 4.34 |
| Giftable | 4.6 | 4.43 | 4.43 |
| Quality of Material | 4.9 | 4.48 | 4.48 |
| Durability | 4.6 | 4.39 | 4.39 |
| Value for Money | 4.6 | 4.20 | 4.20 |
| Flavor | 4.6 | 4.38 | 4.38 |
| Sturdiness | 4.6 | 4.44 | 4.44 |
| Easy to Use | 4.5 | 4.24 | 4.24 |
| Noise Level | 4.6 | 4.41 | 4.41 |
Specifications
Brand:
Breville
Color:
Brushed Stainless Steel
Coffee Maker Type:
Espresso Machine
Filter Type:
Specific Uses:
Home
Weight:
26.8 pounds
Dimensions:
Included Components:
16 oz Stainless Steel Jug., ClaroSwiss Water Filter., Water Hardness Test Strip., Single and Double Wall Filter Baskets., Razor™ Precision Dose Trimming Tool., Cleaning Kit., 54mm Full Stainless Steel Portafilter.
Operation Mode:
Fully Automatic
What to Look for in a Quality Espresso Machine
What to Look for in a Quality Espresso Machine
Investing in a quality espresso machine can elevate your coffee experience and bring the cafe into your home. Whether you're a seasoned coffee connoisseur or just starting on your espresso journey, several key factors should guide your decision when selecting the perfect espresso machine.
1. Value for Money
When considering an espresso machine, think about the value it offers. While some high-end models come with impressive features, they might not always justify their price tags for everyone. Look for a machine that strikes a balance between cost and functionality, ensuring you get the features you need without overpaying.
2. Durability and Build Quality
A durable espresso machine is an investment that should last for years. Pay attention to the build quality, materials used, and the reputation of the manufacturer. Stainless steel components are known for their durability and resistance to corrosion, making them a popular choice in quality machines.
3. Flavor Quality
Ultimately, the taste of your espresso is paramount. The machine's ability to maintain precise temperature control and even extraction is crucial for delivering a balanced and flavorful cup. Look for machines with features like PID temperature control and low-pressure pre-infusion to enhance flavor quality.
4. Ease of Use
Espresso machines can range from fully manual to fully automatic. Choose one that suits your skill level and the amount of time you're willing to invest. Beginners might prefer machines with user-friendly interfaces, while experienced baristas might opt for more manual control.
5. Milk Frothing Capability
If you enjoy milk-based espresso beverages like lattes and cappuccinos, the machine's milk frothing capability is crucial. Look for machines with powerful steam wands or automatic frothing systems to achieve silky microfoam for latte art or creamy steamed milk.
6. Size and Space
Consider the available space in your kitchen when choosing an espresso machine. Some models are compact and suitable for smaller kitchens, while others may require more counter space. Ensure the machine fits comfortably and doesn't disrupt your kitchen setup.
7. Cleaning and Maintenance
Espresso machines require regular cleaning to maintain performance and flavor quality. Look for machines with removable and easy-to-clean components. Some models also have self-cleaning features to simplify maintenance.
8. Brand Reputation and Reviews
Research the reputation of the brand and read reviews from other users. A well-established brand with positive reviews often indicates reliability and customer satisfaction.
By carefully considering these factors, you can make an informed decision and select an espresso machine that meets your needs and delivers exceptional coffee every time.
Wrapping Up - Breville Barista Touch Espresso Machine Review
In conclusion, the Breville Barista Touch Espresso Machine is a highly recommended investment for coffee enthusiasts looking to enjoy cafe-quality beverages at home. With its user-friendly touch screen, customizable features, and exceptional build quality, it offers a standout coffee-making experience. While the initial cost may be a barrier for some, the long-term cost savings and personalized coffee recipes make it worth considering. Despite a few minor drawbacks, this machine has the potential to elevate your coffee experience to new heights.
