Buying Guide for the Best Breville Espresso Machines
Choosing the right espresso machine, especially from a brand like Breville, can make a big difference in your daily coffee experience. It's important to consider how much involvement you want in the coffee-making process, how much space you have, and what kind of drinks you enjoy most. Start by thinking about your habits: do you love experimenting and fine-tuning your espresso, or do you prefer a quick and easy cup? Understanding your preferences will help you match the key features to your needs and make brewing a joy rather than a hassle.Type of MachineEspresso machines generally come in manual, semi-automatic, and automatic (sometimes called fully automatic) versions. This refers to how much control you have over the brewing process. Manual machines require you to do everything—from grinding to dosing and brewing. Semi-automatic machines automate water pressure but let you control timing and grind, striking a balance between convenience and customization. Automatic machines handle most aspects for you, making espresso at the push of a button. If you value hands-on control and enjoy learning, a semi-automatic might be great. If you prefer convenience and speed, an automatic machine may suit you better.
Built-in GrinderSome espresso machines include a built-in grinder, while others require you to use a separate grinder. A built-in grinder saves space and is convenient for beginners, but may have less flexibility or longevity than dedicated grinders. If freshness and ease are important to you, look for a built-in grinder. If you're a coffee enthusiast who wants more grind options or plans to upgrade equipment over time, a separate grinder might be a better fit.
Boiler TypeEspresso machines use different boiler systems, which can affect how quickly you make drinks and how precise temperature control is. Single boiler machines heat water for both brewing and steaming, which means waiting between these steps. Dual boiler machines have separate boilers, allowing you to brew and steam at the same time, ideal for making several drinks in a row. Thermoblock or heat-exchange systems are fast and compact, good for smaller kitchens or casual use. Choose based on how many drinks you typically make—dual boilers are excellent for heavy use, while single boilers or thermoblocks are great for occasional or one-at-a-time brewing.
Steam Wand/FrotherA steam wand lets you froth milk for lattes and cappuccinos. Wands vary in power and adjustability. Basic models create simple foam, while advanced wands allow you to create microfoam for latte art and get milk to just the right texture. If you love milk-based drinks and want to practice your skills, choose a machine with a high-quality, adjustable steam wand. If you mainly drink straight espresso, this may matter less.
Water Tank CapacityThe size of the water tank determines how many drinks you can make before refilling. Smaller tanks are lighter and take up less space, but need more frequent refilling—fine for single users or occasional drinks. Larger tanks suit families or those who entertain guests and want less fuss. Think about how much coffee you make daily and whether you mind refilling often.
ProgrammabilityProgrammable machines let you adjust and save settings like shot volume, temperature, and pre-infusion time. This feature is useful if you like to fine-tune recipes or want consistent results with minimal effort. If you prefer simplicity, you can skip advanced programmability; but if customization excites you, look for machines with these adjustable features.
Size and FootprintEspresso machines vary in size. Compact models fit better in small kitchens or apartments, but may have fewer features. Larger machines often come with more functionality but need more space. Measure your counter area ahead of time and ensure you'll be comfortable using and cleaning the machine in your kitchen.