Brew Like a Barista: Which Breville Coffee Machine is Best?
When it comes to making coffee at home that actually tastes like coffee — rich, bold, and not burned to a crisp — Breville has become the gold standard. Whether you’re an espresso enthusiast or just trying to upgrade from your tired drip machine, there’s a Breville coffee machine built for your taste, skill level, and counter space.
Breville is known for its high-quality, user-friendly, and innovative coffee machines that have earned a strong following among coffee lovers worldwide. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned barista, Breville offers a range of machines that cater to different brewing preferences, from espresso to drip coffee. Below, we’ve compiled a detailed overview of the best-selling Breville coffee machines, focusing on their features, performance, and what makes them so popular.
1. Breville Barista Express (BES870XL) (from $695)

If you're passionate about coffee and want to experience café-quality espresso right in the comfort of your own home, the Breville Barista Express (BES870XL) might be the perfect machine for you. Known for its excellent balance between performance, price, and versatility, this all-in-one espresso maker has earned its place as one of the most popular coffee machines for both beginners and seasoned coffee aficionados.
In this blog post, we'll dive into the features, pros and cons, and why the Breville Barista Express is a top choice for home brewing enthusiasts.
Why Choose the Breville Barista Express?
The Breville Barista Express is an all-in-one espresso machine, meaning it combines everything you need to brew high-quality espresso at home: an integrated burr grinder, a steam wand, and an espresso maker. If you're tired of buying expensive coffee or want to elevate your home brewing skills, this machine allows you to experiment and perfect your favorite espresso drinks.
Breville’s commitment to simplicity, quality, and design shines through in the Barista Express, making it one of the best-selling espresso machines in its category. It’s ideal for individuals who are looking for both ease of use and professional results.
Key Features & Functionality
1. Integrated Conical Burr Grinder
One of the standout features of the Barista Express is its built-in grinder. Freshly ground coffee is essential for a great espresso shot, and with the Barista Express, you get that convenience without needing an additional grinder. The conical burr grinder offers 16 grind settings, allowing you to adjust the coarseness of your grind depending on the type of coffee you're making.
Freshly ground beans ensure you’re getting the full flavor and aroma from your coffee, while the built-in grinder minimizes mess and counter space usage. This feature is perfect for those who want a fresh and flavorful shot of espresso every time.
2. Dose-Control Grinding
With the Barista Express, Breville gives you precise control over the dose of coffee grounds. The machine can deliver between 18-22 grams of ground coffee for a double shot, ensuring a balanced and full-bodied espresso every time.
It also comes with a portafilter that’s designed to allow you to tamp the coffee grounds evenly, which is crucial for creating a consistent shot.
3. Low-Pressure Pre-Infusion
The Barista Express uses a low-pressure pre-infusion system, which is a feature usually found in high-end espresso machines. During pre-infusion, water is introduced to the coffee grounds at a lower pressure to gently soak them before the high-pressure extraction begins. This process ensures an even and smooth extraction, reducing the chance of bitter or sour tastes.
4. Steam Wand for Milk Frothing
One of the features that makes the Barista Express truly stand out is its commercial-style steam wand. The steam wand allows you to froth milk for cappuccinos, lattes, or flat whites, creating the silky smooth microfoam that professional baristas are known for.
The manual frothing control lets you customize your milk texture, so you can experiment with different drinks, from velvety lattes to airy cappuccinos. The wand is easy to use and clean, making it a great tool for both beginners and more advanced users.
5. Thermocoil Heating System
The Breville Barista Express features a thermocoil heating system, which ensures fast heating and precise temperature control. This system uses a coil that’s housed in an aluminum block, which helps the machine maintain an even temperature throughout the brewing process. With an automatic steam and brew temperature adjustment, you can enjoy your coffee within 60 seconds of startup.
6. Easy-to-Read LCD Display
The Barista Express has an intuitive LCD display that clearly shows you essential brewing information, including grind size, shot time, and water temperature. This user-friendly interface makes it easy for both beginners and experienced users to adjust settings to their preference.
7. Removable Water Tank and Drip Tray
The Barista Express comes with a 2-liter water tank, allowing you to brew several cups of espresso without needing to refill constantly. It also has a removable drip tray that makes cleaning easy and ensures you won’t make a mess while brewing.
Performance and Ease of Use
User-Friendly Design
One of the reasons why the Barista Express is so popular among home baristas is its user-friendly design. Despite offering advanced features, Breville made sure the machine is easy to operate. Even if you're new to espresso brewing, the clear instructions and intuitive display make it simple to brew your perfect shot.
The single or double shot options and grind size control help you tailor the espresso to your personal taste preferences, whether you like it mild, medium, or strong.
Customization
While the Barista Express is designed for ease of use, it also offers ample customization options. From the grind size and dose control to the milk frothing texture, you have plenty of room to experiment and find your preferred brewing style.
The manual espresso tamping and steam wand frothing are perfect for users who want to fine-tune their process and try different techniques.
Consistency
Once you find your ideal settings, the Barista Express offers consistent performance every time you brew. The built-in grinder, precise dose control, and low-pressure pre-infusion combine to give you consistently smooth espresso with a full, balanced flavor.
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
All-in-one design (grinder, espresso machine, steam wand) | A bit bulky for smaller kitchens |
Adjustable grind size and dose control for a customized experience | Requires a learning curve for perfecting shots and milk frothing |
Quick heat-up time—ready to brew in about 1 minute | Can be messy if not cleaned regularly |
Ideal for freshly ground coffee every time | Needs more regular maintenance compared to simpler machines |
The Breville Barista Express is ideal for:
- Beginner to intermediate home baristas: If you're just starting to experiment with espresso brewing but want a machine that allows for customization, this is a great choice.
- Coffee enthusiasts: Those who appreciate freshly ground coffee and want to experiment with different brewing methods will love the flexibility it offers.
- Families or small households: With its 2-liter water tank, it’s great for multiple cups throughout the day without frequent refills.
- Milk drinkers: If you enjoy lattes, cappuccinos, or flat whites, the manual steam wand lets you create café-quality drinks at home.
The Breville Barista Express (BES870XL) stands out as one of the most versatile and user-friendly espresso machines on the market. Whether you're looking to upgrade your home brewing experience or you're just starting to explore the world of espresso, this machine offers the perfect blend of convenience, quality, and customization.
While it may require some learning to master the milk frothing and perfect shot extraction, the Barista Express gives you all the tools you need to create professional-level espresso drinks in your own kitchen.
With its robust build, consistent performance, and impressive range of features, the Breville Barista Express truly brings the café experience home, making it one of the best-selling espresso machines for coffee lovers worldwide.
2. Breville Bambino Plus (BES500BSS) (from $469)

The Compact Espresso Machine with Pro-Level Performance
If you’re in the market for a coffee machine that combines speed, quality, and simplicity, look no further than the Breville Bambino Plus (BES500BSS). This compact and sleek espresso machine packs a punch with impressive features, making it an ideal choice for coffee enthusiasts who want barista-quality espresso without the hassle of a bulky, complex setup.
In this blog post, we’ll dive deep into the features, performance, and why the Breville Bambino Plus stands out as one of the most popular espresso machines in its category.
Why Choose the Breville Bambino Plus?
The Breville Bambino Plus stands out for its quick heat-up time, automatic milk frothing, and compact size, making it a top contender in the world of home espresso machines. Its affordable price point and easy-to-use functionality are particularly attractive to those who want a professional espresso experience without investing in a high-end, large machine.
With its sleek stainless steel exterior, the Bambino Plus offers premium quality without taking up too much counter space, which makes it perfect for smaller kitchens or those who want a minimalistic design. Plus, the easy-to-use features make it great for beginners who are looking to dive into the world of espresso.
Key Features & Functionality
1. ThermoJet Heating System – 3-Second Heat-Up Time
One of the standout features of the Bambino Plus is its ThermoJet heating system. This system allows the machine to heat up in just 3 seconds, making it one of the fastest home espresso machines available. Whether you're in a rush for your morning espresso or need to quickly steam milk, you won’t be waiting long before your machine is ready to go.
This ultra-fast heat-up time means you don’t need to worry about waiting for the machine to reach the right temperature every time you use it. Simply press the button, and the Bambino Plus is ready to brew or froth within moments.
2. Automatic Microfoam Milk Frothing
For lovers of lattes, cappuccinos, and flat whites, the Bambino Plus offers automatic milk frothing that makes it easy to create silky smooth microfoam at the touch of a button. The automatic steam wand allows you to choose from different milk frothing options to achieve your ideal texture—whether you prefer velvety microfoam or airy, textured milk.
The machine automatically adjusts the milk temperature to between 140-150°F, which is perfect for creating the ideal froth every time. The wand is easy to clean and offers a degree of control that ensures even beginners can produce professional-quality results.
3. PID Temperature Control for Precise Extraction
The Breville Bambino Plus comes equipped with PID temperature control, ensuring that your espresso is brewed at the ideal temperature for optimal extraction. This feature helps maintain a consistent and precise water temperature, which is key to achieving the best flavor from your coffee beans.
By using PID (Proportional-Integral-Derivative) technology, the Bambino Plus delivers consistent extraction from shot to shot, so you can enjoy a high-quality espresso every time.
4. Simplified User Interface with One-Touch Buttons
The Bambino Plus features an intuitive interface, allowing you to make your favorite drinks with the push of a button. With only three buttons for espresso, steam, and hot water, the machine is designed to be simple and user-friendly—even for beginners. The machine also features an LED indicator that lets you know when it’s ready to brew or froth.
This simplicity allows you to focus more on your coffee-making process rather than worrying about complicated settings or configurations.
5. Compact and Sleek Design
Unlike many espresso machines that are bulky and take up valuable counter space, the Bambino Plus is compact and slim, making it a great choice for smaller kitchens or apartments. At just 12.5 inches high, it fits comfortably under most kitchen cabinets and has a modern stainless steel finish, giving it a sleek, premium look without being overwhelming in size.
The 2-liter water tank provides enough capacity for multiple cups of espresso without requiring frequent refills, making it ideal for households or small offices.
6. Stainless Steel Construction
The Bambino Plus is built with a high-quality stainless steel exterior, which not only provides a premium feel but also ensures the machine's durability. Stainless steel also helps the machine maintain a consistent temperature, which is essential for proper espresso extraction and milk frothing.
Performance and Ease of Use
Ease of Use for Beginners
The Breville Bambino Plus is designed to be incredibly user-friendly, even for those who are just starting to make espresso at home. With one-touch operation, a fast heat-up time, and automatic milk frothing, you can quickly and easily brew a café-quality espresso or create your favorite milk-based drink without needing advanced skills.
The automatic steam wand allows you to froth milk to perfection without the hassle of manual control, making it perfect for anyone new to espresso or milk frothing.
Customizable Milk Frothing
While the Bambino Plus is beginner-friendly, it still gives you the option to customize your milk frothing experience. The automatic milk frother can be adjusted to deliver different textures based on your preference. Whether you like dense, velvety foam for lattes or airy foam for cappuccinos, the Bambino Plus allows you to experiment and find your ideal texture.
Consistent Brewing
The PID temperature control ensures that your espresso shots are consistently brewed at the right temperature, delivering a well-balanced, rich flavor with every cup. Whether you're brewing a single shot or a double shot, the machine’s consistency ensures that each espresso shot has the same rich and smooth taste, making it ideal for daily use.
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Fast heat-up time (3 seconds) with ThermoJet heating system | No built-in grinder, needs a separate grinder |
Automatic steam wand for easy microfoam creation | Milk frothing may not be as customizable as more expensive machines |
Compact design—ideal for smaller spaces | No pre-infusion function for more control over extraction |
Stainless steel build, making it durable and sleek | Not ideal for large batches of coffee at once |
The Breville Bambino Plus is ideal for:
- Beginners: Those who are new to making espresso will love how easy it is to use, with one-touch controls and automatic milk frothing.
- Espresso and Milk-Based Drink Lovers: If you're a fan of lattes, cappuccinos, or flat whites, the Bambino Plus’s automatic milk frother delivers perfect microfoam for these drinks.
- Compact Kitchen Owners: The slim design makes it perfect for smaller kitchens, apartments, or offices where space is limited.
- Speed Lovers: If you need fast results, the 3-second heat-up time is perfect for busy mornings.
This coffee machine strikes an excellent balance between performance, ease of use, and value. Whether you're a coffee novice or an experienced enthusiast, this machine brings professional-quality espresso and perfect milk frothing to your kitchen without taking up too much space.
With its user-friendly interface, quick heat-up time, and automatic milk frothing, the Bambino Plus is an excellent choice for anyone looking to brew high-quality coffee drinks at home with minimal effort. If you're looking for a compact espresso machine that doesn’t compromise on performance, the Breville Bambino Plus should definitely be on your radar.
3. Breville Oracle Touch (BES990BSS) (from $2,799)

If you’re a coffee enthusiast with a taste for premium, café-quality espresso and a desire for complete automation and precision, then the Breville Oracle Touch (BES990BSS) is the espresso machine of your dreams. Combining the best of both worlds—advanced technology and hands-on customization—the Oracle Touch elevates home brewing to a new level of convenience and sophistication.
Below, we’ll break down the features, performance, and why the Breville Oracle Touch stands out as one of the best high-end espresso machines available.
Why Choose the Breville Oracle Touch (BES990BSS)?
The Breville Oracle Touch is a semi-automatic espresso machine designed to give you professional results with minimal effort. It combines the skills of a barista with the ease of automation, making it ideal for both beginners and experienced coffee lovers who want to create café-quality espresso drinks at home.
Breville is known for blending cutting-edge technology with user-friendly designs, and the Oracle Touch is no exception. It features an intuitive touchscreen, dual boilers, and automatic milk frothing. Whether you prefer a rich espresso shot, a creamy latte, or a frothy cappuccino, this machine offers unmatched customization and efficiency.
Key Features & Functionality
1. Touchscreen Interface
One of the standout features of the Oracle Touch is its intuitive 4.3-inch color touchscreen. This sleek interface allows you to control every aspect of the brewing process, from choosing your preferred coffee strength to adjusting the temperature and milk texture. The screen is designed to simplify the coffee-making process, enabling you to create your perfect espresso with just a few taps.
2. Dual Boiler System
The Oracle Touch is equipped with a dual boiler system, allowing for simultaneous brewing and steaming. This means you can pull a shot of espresso and steam milk at the same time, saving you precious seconds and enhancing the overall efficiency of your brewing process. The result? Consistently high-quality coffee in less time.
3. Automatic Grinding, Tamping, and Brewing
This espresso machine removes the guesswork from the coffee-making process. The integrated grinder automatically grinds the perfect amount of coffee beans, tamps the grounds, and brews the espresso—all with minimal user effort. With the Oracle Touch, you’re guaranteed consistent results every time, whether you’re brewing a simple espresso or a more complex coffee drink like a cappuccino.
4. Advanced Milk Frothing
The automatic milk frother on the Oracle Touch is a game-changer for anyone who loves milk-based drinks like lattes and cappuccinos. It uses steam wands and automatic texturing to create velvety smooth microfoam. You can even adjust the texture and temperature of your milk, whether you prefer it silky and creamy or dense and frothy. The milk frothing system is incredibly efficient, giving you café-quality results with the press of a button.
5. Customizable Coffee Profiles
Everyone’s coffee preferences are different, and Breville understands that. With the Oracle Touch, you can store up to 8 customizable coffee profiles. Whether you like a strong ristretto or a milder lungo, the machine will remember your exact preferences. This personalization is perfect for households with multiple coffee drinkers, ensuring that each person can have their ideal cup at the touch of a button.
6. Built-In Grinder with 45 Grind Settings
For true coffee aficionados, the grind is a crucial element in getting the perfect shot of espresso. The Oracle Touch comes with a conical burr grinder that has 45 grind settings. This ensures that you can dial in your grind size to suit any type of coffee, from a fine grind for espresso to a coarser grind for other brewing methods like French press. The grind consistency is excellent, helping you achieve that perfect extraction every time.
7. Intelligent Pre-Infusion and Temperature Control
For espresso lovers who want precision, the Oracle Touch doesn’t disappoint. It offers pre-infusion technology, where the coffee grounds are gently wetted before the full shot is extracted. This ensures uniform extraction, enhancing flavor and aroma. The machine also comes with PID temperature control, which guarantees a consistent and precise brewing temperature, an essential factor in making great espresso.
8. Self-Cleaning Function
Maintaining an espresso machine can be a chore, but the Oracle Touch makes it easy with its self-cleaning function. The machine will automatically clean its components, including the group head and steam wand, to ensure optimal performance. This minimizes maintenance time and keeps your coffee tasting fresh.
Performance and Taste
When it comes to taste, the Breville Oracle Touch shines. The combination of precise grind settings, consistent temperature control, and expert-level milk frothing results in exceptional espresso every time. Whether you prefer an espresso, cappuccino, or latte, the Oracle Touch delivers on its promise of café-quality coffee. The dual boiler system means you can effortlessly switch between brewing and steaming, maintaining a smooth workflow and preserving the integrity of each shot.
The integrated grinder is impressively accurate, ensuring that the right amount of coffee is ground every time. The machine’s automatic tamping mechanism eliminates any inconsistencies that can arise from manual tamping, resulting in a more even extraction. And for those who appreciate perfect milk texture, the steam wand creates microfoam that rivals your local coffee shop.
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Dual boiler system allows simultaneous brewing and frothing | Expensive—better suited for serious coffee enthusiasts |
Customizable options via the touchscreen interface | Takes up a lot of counter space due to its size |
Automatic milk frothing with customizable settings | Steeper learning curve for new users |
PID temperature control for precise and consistent extraction | Requires more frequent descaling due to the complex system |
If you're serious about coffee and want to elevate your home brewing experience, the Breville Oracle Touch (BES990BSS) is definitely worth the investment. It’s perfect for those who appreciate the craft of espresso but don’t want to spend years perfecting their technique. With its combination of automation, advanced features, and customization, this machine brings café-quality espresso into your home with minimal effort.
For anyone looking to take their coffee game to the next level, the Oracle Touch offers a luxurious and convenient solution. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned coffee enthusiast, this all-in-one espresso machine will meet your needs and then some.
The Breville Oracle Touch is truly a standout in the world of espresso machines. It strikes a perfect balance between automation and customization, making it a top contender for anyone serious about home-brewed coffee. With its sleek design, exceptional performance, and ease of use, it’s a machine that can be relied upon to deliver professional-grade espresso every time. If you’re ready to invest in a machine that delivers both quality and convenience, the Oracle Touch is an excellent choice.
4. Breville Infuser (BES840XL) (from $586)

If you're someone who loves the aroma of freshly brewed espresso but doesn’t want to invest in high-end, commercial-grade equipment, then the Breville Infuser (BES840XL) might just be the perfect espresso machine for you. This entry-level, semi-automatic espresso maker is designed to bring cafe-quality coffee into your home with simplicity, consistency, and a reasonable price tag. Whether you're just starting out on your coffee journey or looking for a reliable machine for your daily espresso fix, the Infuser offers a great balance of features and affordability.
The Breville Infuser (BES840XL) is a semi-automatic espresso machine that sits between beginner and professional espresso makers. While it doesn’t come with the advanced features of high-end machines, it still offers a solid performance that’s perfect for anyone looking to upgrade their coffee routine without breaking the bank. The Infuser packs a range of features typically found in more expensive models, making it an excellent choice for home users who want quality espresso without the steep learning curve.
Key Features & Functionality
1. PID Temperature Control
One of the standout features of the Breville Infuser is its PID (Proportional-Integral-Derivative) temperature control system. This system ensures that the water is maintained at the optimal brewing temperature, providing more consistent and precise extractions. Temperature stability is crucial for making high-quality espresso, and the Infuser does a great job of keeping things consistent shot after shot.
2. Pre-Infusion Technology
The pre-infusion function gradually increases the water pressure to gently expand the coffee grounds before the full pressure is applied. This results in a more even and uniform extraction, which enhances the flavor profile of the espresso. For coffee lovers, this means better-tasting espresso with more complex and balanced flavors, which is especially helpful when working with different beans.
3. 15-Bar Italian Pump
The 15-bar Italian pump is another feature that stands out in this price range. This pump delivers consistent pressure during extraction, which is essential for getting the right crema and full extraction of flavors. It's not as powerful as the commercial-grade pumps found in more expensive machines, but it still offers great results for home brewers.
4. 360° Swivel Steam Wand
A milk frother is an essential component of any espresso machine, and the Infuser’s 360° swivel steam wand makes frothing milk for cappuccinos and lattes easy and efficient. The wand is capable of producing nice microfoam, though it may take a little practice to master. Its ability to swivel 360° gives you full flexibility in positioning the wand to accommodate various milk frothing needs.
5. Stainless Steel Construction
While many espresso machines in this price range are made with cheaper plastic materials, the Breville Infuser boasts a sleek stainless steel exterior. This not only gives it a more premium look and feel, but it also makes the machine more durable and easier to clean. The high-quality build gives it a professional appearance that will complement most kitchen setups.
6. Programmable Shot Volume
Another great feature is the ability to program the shot volume. Whether you prefer a single shot, double shot, or a custom-sized espresso, the Infuser allows you to adjust the amount of water used in each extraction. This provides you with a more personalized espresso-making experience, ensuring your drink is made exactly to your liking.
7. Removable Water Tank with Filtration
The 2-liter water tank is large enough for several shots of espresso, reducing the need for constant refilling. It also includes a water filtration system that helps reduce impurities and improve the taste of your coffee. The tank is easy to remove and refill, making it a convenient feature for daily use.
8. Easy-to-Use Interface
The Infuser's interface is simple yet effective, featuring a single button for on/off, a button for steam, and another for activating the shot brewing process. There’s no complicated setup or confusing display, making it ideal for beginners who want a no-fuss brewing experience.
Performance and Taste
The Breville Infuser punches above its weight when it comes to delivering great-tasting espresso. Thanks to the PID temperature control, pre-infusion technology, and 15-bar pump, it offers a smooth, balanced extraction that is often found in more expensive models. The Infuser doesn’t just produce decent espresso; it produces espresso that has depth and consistency.
For those who enjoy milk-based drinks, the steam wand does a respectable job of frothing milk to the right texture for lattes and cappuccinos. It may take a little practice to get the texture just right, but the steam wand's 360-degree movement allows for plenty of flexibility.
Though it lacks the speed and power of commercial espresso machines, the Infuser is quick enough for home use. From turning it on to pulling your first shot usually takes just under 10 minutes, which is a reasonable wait for anyone brewing in a home setting.
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
PID temperature control for optimal espresso extraction | No automatic milk frothing, requires manual frothing or separate wand |
Pre-infusion function ensures even extraction | Small water tank (1.8L) requires more frequent refilling |
Compact and sleek design that’s ideal for smaller kitchens | Lacks some of the advanced features found in more premium models |
Affordable compared to high-end Breville machines | Less customizable compared to high-end models like the Oracle Touch |
Who Should Buy the Breville Infuser (BES840XL)?
The Breville Infuser (BES840XL) is perfect for anyone who wants to dip their toes into the world of home espresso brewing without making a huge investment. It’s great for beginners who are looking for an affordable way to make high-quality espresso, lattes, and cappuccinos. At the same time, it’s also suitable for intermediate coffee drinkers who want a machine that’s easy to use but still delivers great results.
If you’re someone who enjoys making espresso at home and you’re not looking to spend thousands on a commercial-grade machine, the Infuser offers a fantastic combination of quality and value.
Is the Breville Infuser Worth It?
The Breville Infuser (BES840XL) is a solid, reliable espresso machine that provides great value for its price. While it may lack some of the advanced features of pricier models, it still offers a high level of performance, especially considering its affordability. With features like PID temperature control, pre-infusion, and a stainless steel construction, the Infuser delivers professional-level espresso with the convenience of a home setup.
If you’re a beginner or an intermediate home brewer, and you want an espresso machine that combines quality, ease of use, and great value, the Breville Infuser should definitely be on your radar. It’s a fantastic way to elevate your coffee game without breaking the bank!
5. Breville Grind Control (BCG820BSSXL) (from $199)

When it comes to making the perfect cup of coffee, few things are as important as the grind. Freshly ground coffee beans not only enhance the flavor and aroma of your brew but also give you the flexibility to experiment with different brewing methods. Enter the Breville Grind Control (BCG820BSSXL), an advanced coffee grinder that promises to take your morning coffee to the next level. Whether you’re a casual coffee drinker or a true coffee enthusiast, the Grind Control delivers the consistency, versatility, and precision you need to create the perfect cup every time.
The Breville Grind Control (BCG820BSSXL) is a high-quality, programmable coffee grinder designed for both drip coffee and pour-over aficionados. Featuring 60 grind settings, a built-in precision scale, and an intuitive design, the Grind Control is perfect for anyone who wants to fine-tune their grind to achieve the best possible extraction for their brewing method. Whether you're grinding for a French press, drip coffee, or espresso, this grinder gives you complete control over your coffee-making process.
Key Features & Functionality
1. 60 Grind Settings for Precision
One of the standout features of the Breville Grind Control is its 60 grind settings. From ultra-fine grinds for espresso to coarser grinds for French press and cold brew, this grinder gives you the flexibility to experiment and dial in the perfect grind size for any brewing method. This variety ensures that no matter how you brew your coffee, you can achieve the perfect consistency every time.
2. Programmable Grind Amount
If you often find yourself grinding more or less coffee than you need, the programmable grind amount feature is a game-changer. The Breville Grind Control allows you to adjust the amount of coffee you want to grind, whether you’re making a single cup or brewing a full pot. The 0.2-ounce increments give you precise control over the quantity of coffee, so you don’t waste beans or end up with too much or too little coffee in your brew.
3. Integrated Burr Grinder
The steel conical burr grinder is designed to grind coffee beans consistently and uniformly. Burr grinders are generally preferred over blade grinders because they produce more even particles, which helps ensure a more balanced extraction. The Grind Control’s burr grinder ensures that you’re getting the best possible grind, reducing inconsistencies and improving the overall flavor of your coffee.
4. Adjustable Coffee Basket and Dosing System
The Breville Grind Control features an adjustable coffee basket that fits both flat-bottom and cone-style filter baskets, ensuring compatibility with various coffee makers. The dosing system is also customizable, allowing you to adjust the coffee-to-water ratio to your preference, whether you're making a strong cup or a lighter brew.
5. LCD Display with Easy-to-Use Controls
The LCD display on the Breville Grind Control is both sleek and functional. It gives you real-time information on the grind setting, grind amount, and the coffee strength you're preparing. With simple button controls, you can easily adjust your grind size, program your grind time, and select the coffee strength you desire. The display makes it incredibly user-friendly, so you don’t need to be a coffee expert to operate it effectively.
6. Grind & Brew Functionality
For added convenience, the Grind Control also doubles as a grinder and coffee brewer. You can set it to grind the exact amount of coffee you need and directly brew it into your coffee maker. This integrated system eliminates the need to manually transfer ground coffee from a separate grinder to your coffee machine, streamlining the process for a more seamless experience.
7. Large Capacity Bean Hopper
The Grind Control comes with a large 0.5-pound capacity bean hopper, so you can store enough beans for multiple brewing sessions without constantly needing to refill. The hopper is also easy to remove for cleaning and filling, making maintenance a breeze. Plus, the air-tight lid helps preserve the freshness of your beans, keeping them protected from air and light.
8. Silent Operation
Coffee grinders can be noisy, but the Breville Grind Control is designed to minimize noise while grinding. Though it’s not completely silent, it operates much quieter than many other grinders in its category. This means you can grind your beans early in the morning without waking up the entire house.
Performance and Taste
When it comes to performance, the Breville Grind Control (BCG820BSSXL) excels in delivering high-quality, consistent grinds for a variety of brewing methods. Whether you prefer French press, drip coffee, pour-over, or cold brew, the Grind Control allows you to tailor the grind to suit each method perfectly.
- Espresso: For espresso enthusiasts, the fine grind setting delivers a consistent, even grind, which is critical for achieving a balanced extraction and rich crema.
- Drip Coffee: The medium grind setting works perfectly for drip coffee makers, providing a uniform extraction for clean, flavorful coffee.
- French Press: For those who enjoy a coarser grind, the Grind Control’s larger grind size is perfect for French press brewing, ensuring that your coffee is robust and full-bodied.
- Pour-Over: If you’re into pour-over brewing, the Grind Control allows you to fine-tune your grind for a smooth, balanced cup with great clarity.
With its precision and customizable grind settings, the Breville Grind Control helps you achieve the ideal extraction for whichever brewing method you choose, ensuring consistently great results.
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Integrated grinder and coffee maker in one unit | No milk frothing feature for lattes or cappuccinos |
Programmable with brew strength control | Not as compact as some other drip coffee makers |
Customizable grind settings for various coffee preferences | Can be a bit noisy during grinding |
Compact stainless steel design—durable and easy to clean | Limited to drip coffee brewing, no espresso functionality |
Who Should Buy the Breville Grind Control (BCG820BSSXL)?
The Breville Grind Control is ideal for coffee enthusiasts who want to take their brewing experience to the next level. Whether you’re into espresso, drip coffee, pour-over, or French press, this grinder gives you the precision and control you need to get the best possible flavor from your beans.
It’s perfect for:
- Coffee aficionados who demand consistency and quality from their grinders.
- Home baristas looking for a reliable, customizable grinder that works with multiple brewing methods.
- Anyone who values convenience with its grind-and-brew function that simplifies the coffee-making process.
Is the Breville Grind Control Worth It?
For anyone serious about their coffee, the Breville Grind Control (BCG820BSSXL) is a top-tier grinder that delivers consistent, high-quality grinds for a wide range of brewing methods. Its 60 grind settings, programmable features, and user-friendly interface make it an excellent choice for those who want complete control over their coffee-making process. While it may not be the most budget-friendly option, the performance, versatility, and convenience it offers are well worth the investment for dedicated coffee drinkers.
If you’re looking to elevate your home coffee game and enjoy freshly ground beans with every cup, the Breville Grind Control is a fantastic choice that will help you brew the perfect coffee, every time.
Which One Should You Choose?
Breville offers coffee machines for every type of coffee drinker. Here’s a quick guide:
- Best for Espresso Lovers: The Barista Express and Oracle Touch are perfect for those who want high-quality espresso with customizable features.
- Best for Latte and Cappuccino Enthusiasts: The Bambino Plus and Oracle Touch are fantastic for milk-based drinks thanks to their automatic milk frothing.
- Best for Drip Coffee Drinkers: Breville Grind Control

