Find Out if the Breville Barista Touch Impress Espresso Machine Lives Up to Its Hype!

Description

Design & Build Quality

The brushed stainless steel finish of the Breville Barista Touch Impress Espresso Machine, model BES881BSS, gives it a sleek, modern vibe that instantly elevates any kitchen counter. I couldn’t help but admire how sturdy and well-made it feels. At over 24 pounds, it’s evident this espresso machine is built to last. The touch interface? Smooth and intuitive, almost like using a high-end tablet. However, it does take up a fair bit of counter space, so if you’re working with a compact kitchen, it might feel a bit overpowering.

Features

This espresso maker packs a ton of features that make it stand out. The integrated coffee grinder with hardened steel burrs ensures precise dosing, and it even has 30 grind settings. The Impress Puck System is a game-changer, guiding you through perfect tamping with 22 pounds of pressure, followed by a satisfying barista twist. I tested its eight café-style presets, and each one delivered consistent results. From flat whites to cappuccinos, there’s a setting for everyone. Oh, and the touchscreen customization? It lets you save up to eight personalized drink profiles—ideal for a family of coffee enthusiasts.

Brewing Performance

I was blown away by how quickly this machine brews. Thanks to its ThermoJet heating system, it reaches optimal extraction temperature in just three seconds. No more groggily waiting for my first cup of the day. The espresso extraction was smooth, and the machine maintained consistent pressure, ensuring a balanced shot every time. My coworker, who’s notoriously picky about her espresso, was impressed by the rich crema and full-bodied flavor.

Milk Frothing & Steaming Capability

The Auto MilQ frothing system is pure wizardry. It adjusts the air injection time and temperature based on whether you’re using dairy or alternative milk. I’m an oat milk enthusiast, and the silky microfoam it produced was mind-blowing. Latte art? A breeze. However, I did notice the steam wand could be temperamental on subsequent uses, occasionally shutting off mid-session. A bit frustrating when you’re entertaining guests and need back-to-back drinks.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Cleaning this machine is surprisingly straightforward. It comes with cleaning tablets, a disc, a brush, and even a steam wand cleaning tool. The machine prompts you when it’s time to clean or descale, which I found super handy. That said, the grinder area does tend to gather stray grounds, so a quick wipe-down after each use is necessary to keep things tidy.

Coffee Quality

Every cup brewed from this machine was café-quality. I used premium beans, and the flavor extraction was on point. Whether I was sipping an Americano or indulging in a caramel latte, the taste was consistently superior to what I’d get at most chain coffee shops. My daughter declared the vanilla latte I made her the best she’s ever had, and she’s a coffee snob who rarely doles out compliments.

Water Tank & Capacity

The water tank is generously sized, which is great for someone like me who goes through multiple cups a day. It’s easy to remove and refill, and the included water filter ensures the water quality doesn’t compromise the flavor. However, the tank’s placement at the back can make it tricky to access if the machine is tucked under cabinets.

Energy Efficiency & Noise Levels

The ThermoJet system is not only fast but also energy-efficient. The machine automatically goes into sleep mode when idle, which I appreciated. Noise-wise, the grinder is a tad louder than I expected, though it’s not obnoxious. Compared to my old espresso machine, this one is much quieter during brewing and steaming.

Warranty & Support

Breville offers a one-year warranty on the Barista Touch Impress, which feels standard but not overly generous for a machine at this price point. Their customer support is responsive, though I did see feedback from others who had mixed experiences with resolving technical issues.

Strong Points

• Integrated coffee grinder with 30 settings for precision.
• Auto MilQ system delivers perfect microfoam for every type of milk.
• ThermoJet heating system ensures rapid brewing.
• Touchscreen customization allows for personalized drink profiles.

Areas for Improvement

• Steam wand can occasionally shut off mid-use.
• Grinder area requires frequent cleaning due to stray grounds.
• Back placement of the water tank is inconvenient for smaller spaces.

Competing Products

When comparing this espresso machine to others, the De’Longhi La Specialista Arte comes to mind. While the De’Longhi offers a similar grinding and tamping system, it doesn’t have the advanced touchscreen or milk frothing customization that the Breville boasts. On the other hand, the Jura E8 provides a fully automated experience but lacks the hands-on barista-style operation that coffee enthusiasts like me enjoy. For those who want precision with a touch of luxury, the Breville Barista Touch Impress strikes a balance between control and convenience.

Bang for the Buck

Considering its features and performance, this machine offers good value for its price range. It’s not budget-friendly, but it delivers a premium experience close to that of professional machines. If you’re someone who spends a small fortune on daily café trips, this could save you in the long run while giving you the joy of crafting your own perfect espresso.

Additional information