Breville Espresso Machines for Beginners


Breville is a reliable brand recognized for manufacturing coffee machines that are user-friendly, dependable, and capable of producing excellent-tasting espresso. Here, we explore the top Breville espresso machines for beginners, taking into account factors such as ease of use, price, and overall performance. Regardless of whether you are a novice or an experienced coffee enthusiast, there is a Breville espresso machine that is ideal for you.

Comparison Table 

ModelBreville Express BES876BSSBreville BES920XLBreville BES870BSXL
Water Tank Capacity67 fl.oz.84 fl.oz.67 fl.oz.
GrinderBuilt-inNoneBuilt-in
Pressure ControlYesYesYes
Heating SystemThermocoilDual BoilerThermocoil
Pre-InfusionYesYesYes
Milk FrotherManualManualManual

Best Breville Espresso Machines for Beginners 

Let’s look at the top Breville espresso machines suitable for novice users, scrutinizing their distinct features, benefits, and drawbacks.

1. Breville Barista Express– Best Overall

The Breville Espresso Machine is an excellent option for coffee aficionados who want to enjoy premium coffee drinks at home. The machine’s built-in a conical burr grinder is a standout feature, ensuring that each shot of espresso is freshly ground, giving you maximum flavor and aroma.

Reasons to Buy:

  1. Built-in Conical Burr Grinder – This machine’s integrated grinder ensures that each shot of espresso is freshly ground, providing maximum flavor and aroma.
  2. Customizable Settings – The intuitive interface allows you to adjust the grind size, shot volume, and temperature, allowing you to customize your coffee drinks to your liking.

Reasons to Avoid:

  1. Price – The Breville Espresso Machine is on the higher end of the price spectrum, which may not be feasible for some buyers.
  2. Learning Curve – This machine may take some time to get the hang of and may require trial and error before achieving the perfect shot of espresso.

2. Breville Dual Boiler Espresso Machine – Best for Precise Control

The Breville Dual Boiler Espresso Machine is a top-of-the-line appliance for those who want to create the perfect cup of espresso at home. Here are some reasons why you should consider buying this machine, as well as some reasons why you might want to avoid it.

Reasons to Buy:

  1. Dual Boiler System – This machine boasts two separate boilers, one for espresso and the other for steam, which allows you to brew and steam simultaneously, making the process faster and more efficient.
  2. High-Quality Construction – Made from high-quality stainless steel, the Breville is built to last and withstand daily use.
  3. Precise Control – With programmable shot volumes, PID temperature control, and a pressure gauge, this machine provides the user with complete control over the brewing process.

Reasons to Avoid:

  1. Price – The Breville is one of the most expensive espresso machines on the market, which may be out of reach for some buyers.
  2. Maintenance – Regular cleaning and maintenance are necessary to keep this machine in top condition, which may be time-consuming and tedious for some users.

3. Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine – Best for In-Built Grind

The Breville Barista Machine is an excellent choice for coffee lovers who want to create high-quality espresso drinks at home. Here are some reasons why you should consider buying this machine, as well as some reasons why you might want to avoid it.

Reasons to Buy:

  1. Built-in Grinder – Breville comes with a built-in, conical burr grinder, which grinds fresh coffee beans right before brewing for maximum flavor.
  2. User-Friendly – This machine is designed with a simple interface that is easy to use, even for beginners.
  3. Customizable Settings – With adjustable grind size, shot volume, and temperature, you can customize your coffee drinks to your liking.

Reasons to Avoid:

  1. Limited Capacity – This machine has a relatively small water tank and bean hopper, which may not be ideal for those who frequently make multiple coffee drinks.
  2. No Dual Boiler System – The Breville does not have a separate boiler for steaming milk, which means that you’ll have to wait for the machine to heat up between brewing and steaming.
  3. Maintenance – Regular cleaning and maintenance are necessary to keep this machine in top condition, which may be time-consuming and tedious for some users.

Buying Guide 

If you’re new to the world of espresso, choosing the right machine can be overwhelming. With so many options available, it’s essential to consider factors such as budget, functionality, and ease of use. In this guide, we’ll explore the most critical considerations for purchasing the best espresso machines for beginners.

Budget

The first consideration when buying an espresso machine is budget. Espresso machines can range from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars, and your budget will dictate the level of features and quality you can expect. For beginners, it’s advisable to start with a more affordable option and upgrade as you become more experienced.

Semi-Automatic vs Automatic

Espresso machines come in two main types: semi-automatic and automatic. Semi-automatic machines require manual intervention, such as grinding the beans, tamping the grounds, and monitoring the extraction time. Automatic machines, on the other hand, do all of these steps automatically, making them easier to use for beginners. However, semi-automatic machines offer more control over the brewing process, which can be beneficial for those who want to experiment with different brewing methods.

Water Tank Capacity

The water tank capacity is another essential consideration when buying an espresso machine. The larger the water tank, the less frequently you’ll need to refill it, which can save time and effort. However, larger tanks also mean larger machines, so it’s essential to balance your needs with the available counter space in your kitchen.

Milk Frothing Capability

If you enjoy milk-based espresso drinks, you’ll need a machine with a milk-frothing capability. Some machines come with built-in steam wands, while others have automatic milk-frothing systems. Steam wands offer more control over the frothing process, but they can be challenging to master for beginners. Automatic milk frothing systems are more convenient but may not produce the same quality of froth as a steam wand.

Ease of Cleaning

Espresso machines require regular cleaning to maintain their performance and ensure the quality of your drinks. Some machines are easier to clean than others, with features such as removable drip trays and automatic cleaning cycles. It’s essential to consider how much time and effort you’re willing to put into cleaning your machine when making a purchase.

Size and Design

Finally, it’s essential to consider the size and design of your espresso machine. Espresso machines come in various sizes and styles, from compact and minimalist to large and ornate. It’s essential to choose a machine that fits your kitchen space and aesthetic preferences while still meeting your functional needs.

Frequently Asked Questions 

What is the best grind size for espresso Breville?

The best grind size for espresso on a Breville machine depends on the type of beans you’re using and the level of extraction you want. Generally, fine grind size is necessary for espresso to ensure that the water extracts the maximum amount of flavor from the coffee. However, the grind size will vary based on the beans, roast level, and machine used. Breville machines often come with a built-in grinder that allows you to adjust the grind size to your liking, making it easy to achieve the perfect shot.

Is the Breville Barista good for beginners?

Yes, the Breville Barista is an excellent choice for beginners who want to learn how to make espresso at home. While it is a semi-automatic machine, it’s designed to be user-friendly and intuitive. It also has a steam wand for manual milk frothing and a range of settings that allow you to customize your shots to your liking. The Barista Express model even comes with a comprehensive manual and video tutorials that can guide you through the brewing process step-by-step. With a little practice, beginners can produce excellent-tasting espresso on the Breville Barista.

How long will a Breville espresso machine last?

The lifespan of a Breville espresso machine will depend on several factors, including usage, maintenance, and the specific model. With proper care, a Breville machine can last for several years. However, like any machine, regular maintenance and cleaning are essential to prolonging its lifespan. 

Conclusion 

To sum up, the world of espresso machines may appear overwhelming for beginners, but Breville has made it simpler. Breville has a diverse selection of espresso machines with distinct features and complexities, making certain that there is something for everyone. No matter your requirements or preferences, there is a Breville espresso machine to satisfy your needs. With a Breville espresso machine, even those new to the craft can savor delicious and authentic espresso beverages from the comfort of their own home.