Breville Barista Touch Impress Review

Espresso machines have always been a gateway to crafting coffee shop-quality beverages from the comfort of home. With Breville’s Barista Touch Impress, the brand continues its legacy of creating user-friendly machines that cater to both beginners and seasoned baristas. I spent weeks testing this machine in various settings, and this review details every aspect—design, features, functionality, performance, and value. Let’s dive in.

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Breville Barista Touch Impress Specifications

Feature	Specification
Machine Type	Semi-automatic, all-in-one espresso machine
Dimensions	32 cm (W) × 40 cm (D) × 40 cm (H) (12.6″ × 15.8″ × 15.7″)
Weight	12.5 kg (27.6 lbs)
Material	Brushed stainless steel body with high-quality plastic components
Color Options	Brushed Stainless Steel, Black Truffle, (availability may vary by region)
Water Reservoir Capacity	2 liters (67.6 oz), removable, with built-in water filter
Bean Hopper Capacity	250 grams (8.8 oz)
Heating System	ThermoJet heating system (3-second heat-up time)
Grinder Type	Integrated conical burr grinder
Grind Settings	30 adjustable grind sizes
Dosing System	Smart dosing with automatic adjustments based on grind size and shot parameters
Tamping	Impress Puck System with automatic tamping and dose correction
Pre-Infusion	Low-pressure pre-infusion for even extraction
Pressure Control	15-bar Italian pump
PID Temperature Control	Yes, adjustable brew temperature (±5°C or ±9°F)
Touchscreen Interface	Full-color, intuitive touchscreen for recipe selection and customization
Pre-Programmed Drinks	Espresso, Americano, Latte, Cappuccino, Flat White, customizable options
User Profiles	Up to 8 customizable drink recipes
Milk Frothing	Automatic and manual steam wand with texture and temperature adjustment
Milk Jug	Stainless steel milk jug with pour spout for latte art
Cleaning System	Auto-purge for steam wand; cleaning cycles for group head and milk system
Accessories Included	Portafilter, tamper, cleaning tools, cleaning disk, milk jug, water filter
Power	1700W
Voltage	110–120V (US) / 220–240V (international)
Warranty	2-year limited product warranty

This comprehensive table summarizes the machine’s technical specifications and features, highlighting its versatility and advanced capabilities.

Design and Build Quality

The Breville Barista Touch Impress stands out immediately for its sleek, modern design and robust build. Breville has a reputation for creating appliances that balance form and function, and this espresso machine is no exception. The attention to detail in its design ensures it not only looks fantastic on a countertop but also delivers a practical and durable experience for daily use.

Aesthetic Appeal

The visual design of the Barista Touch Impress is a testament to Breville’s commitment to creating high-end kitchen appliances. Its brushed stainless steel finish exudes a polished, professional appearance that wouldn’t be out of place in a specialty coffee shop. The clean lines and minimalist aesthetic make it a natural fit for modern kitchens, while the range of available finishes, including brushed stainless steel, black truffle, and sometimes limited-edition colors, offer versatility to match various decor styles.

The machine features a balanced blend of metallic surfaces and subtle plastic elements, with the latter being used only where necessary, such as for components like the drip tray and water reservoir. These plastic parts are of high quality, blending seamlessly into the overall aesthetic without compromising the premium feel.

Compact and Counter-Friendly

Despite being a fully integrated espresso machine with a built-in grinder, touch interface, and steam wand, the Barista Touch Impress maintains a relatively compact footprint. Measuring approximately 32 cm (12.6 inches) wide, 40 cm (15.8 inches) deep, and 40 cm (15.7 inches) tall, it manages to pack a wide array of features into a size that doesn’t dominate kitchen counter space.

For comparison, many espresso machines with similar functionality are bulkier or require additional space for separate grinders. The Barista Touch Impress’s integrated grinder and streamlined design make it a particularly good choice for kitchens with limited space or for those who want a minimalist setup. Additionally, its weight of approximately 12.5 kg (27.6 lbs) makes it sturdy enough to stay in place during use but still manageable if you need to reposition it.

Ergonomics and User-Centric Design

Breville has clearly considered ergonomics in the design of this machine. Each element is intuitively placed for ease of use:

• Portafilter Placement: The portafilter slots smoothly into the group head with a satisfying click, and the handle is angled for comfortable use.
• Grind Adjustment Dial: Positioned on the side, the grind size adjustment dial is easy to access, even in tight spaces, without moving the machine.
• Water Reservoir Access: While the reservoir is located at the back, it’s removable, making it simple to fill and clean. However, users with limited space above their counters might find rear access slightly inconvenient, as it requires the machine to be pulled forward.
• Touchscreen Interface: The screen is perfectly angled for visibility, eliminating the need to bend down or adjust your position to read it.

The machine’s dimensions and layout reflect thoughtful design, prioritizing usability while maintaining a streamlined appearance.

Material Quality and Durability

One of the most important aspects of any espresso machine is its durability, as daily coffee-making can be tough on equipment. The Barista Touch Impress does not disappoint. The primary material is brushed stainless steel, which resists stains, scratches, and fingerprints better than many other finishes. This ensures the machine remains attractive even after extensive use.

The portafilter and group head are made of durable metal, ensuring a secure fit and reliable performance over time. The steam wand, another critical component, feels solid and operates smoothly, allowing for precise control during manual frothing. Unlike cheaper machines that sometimes rely heavily on plastic components in high-stress areas, the Barista Touch Impress uses metal for key elements, improving longevity and user confidence.

The drip tray and water reservoir are made of sturdy plastic. While some may prefer metal parts for these elements, the high-grade plastic used here is durable and lightweight, making it easier to handle during cleaning and maintenance.

Smart Design Features

Breville has incorporated several thoughtful design features that enhance the user experience:

1. Magnetic Storage: The included tamper attaches magnetically to its designated spot, reducing clutter and keeping it within easy reach. Similarly, the tool tray is integrated neatly into the base of the machine, offering storage for cleaning tools and filter baskets.
2. Integrated Grinder: The built-in conical burr grinder sits unobtrusively within the machine, eliminating the need for extra equipment on your counter. Its placement minimizes spillage, as freshly ground coffee drops directly into the portafilter.
3. Impress Puck System: The tamping mechanism automatically compacts the coffee grounds, ensuring even distribution and removing the guesswork for users. This innovation not only enhances performance but also adds to the machine’s futuristic design aesthetic.
4. Drip Tray Design: The removable drip tray includes an indicator that pops up when it’s full, preventing overflows. Its segmented design makes it easy to clean, as you can remove individual parts to rinse thoroughly.
5. Steam Wand Placement: The steam wand is thoughtfully positioned on the side, with enough clearance to accommodate various milk jug sizes. It swivels freely, offering flexibility during frothing without crowding the main brewing area.

Visual and Tactile Experience

Beyond functionality, the Barista Touch Impress delivers a tactile and visual experience that elevates the coffee-making ritual. The buttons and dials have a satisfying weight to them, while the touchscreen offers haptic feedback and an incredibly responsive interface. These details contribute to a premium feel that enhances the user’s connection to the machine.

The soft glow of the touchscreen when the machine is powered on adds a subtle, luxurious touch. It’s bright enough to be visible in various lighting conditions but not overly harsh, maintaining an elegant and sophisticated presence.

Potential Drawbacks

While the overall design and build quality are excellent, there are a couple of areas where the design could be slightly improved:

• Water Reservoir Placement: As mentioned earlier, the rear placement of the water reservoir can be a hassle for users with limited countertop clearance. A side-mounted or front-access design would have been more convenient.
• Plastic Components: Although the plastic parts are high quality, users who prefer an all-metal construction might feel these elements slightly detract from the otherwise premium build.

Final Thoughts on Design and Build Quality

The Breville Barista Touch Impress excels in design and build quality, delivering a machine that is both stylish and highly functional. Its compact size, ergonomic layout, and durable materials make it a long-term investment for coffee lovers. While there are minor areas for improvement, the thoughtful design choices far outweigh any drawbacks. Whether you’re drawn to its aesthetic appeal or its user-friendly features, this machine sets a high bar for espresso makers in its class.

Key Features

The Breville Barista Touch Impress combines cutting-edge technology with thoughtful functionality, making it a standout espresso machine in the premium home brewing market. Its blend of innovative features, ease of use, and customization caters to both novice and experienced coffee enthusiasts. Here’s a detailed breakdown of its key features.

1. Touchscreen Interface

One of the Barista Touch Impress’s most striking features is its intuitive touchscreen interface, designed to simplify the coffee-making process without compromising control. This full-color display replaces traditional dials and buttons, streamlining operations with a clean, modern aesthetic.

• Ease of Use: The interface is straightforward and user-friendly, even for those new to espresso machines. It guides you step by step through every stage of brewing, from grinding and tamping to frothing milk.
• Pre-Programmed Drinks: The machine comes with pre-set recipes for popular beverages, including:
  • Espresso
  • Americano
  • Latte
  • Cappuccino
  • Flat White
  Each recipe automatically adjusts grind time, brew temperature, and milk texture, allowing for consistent results with minimal effort.
• Customizable Settings: While the presets are excellent, coffee connoisseurs can tweak nearly every parameter, such as:
  • Brew temperature (up to ±5°C adjustment from the base).
  • Milk texture and temperature for the steam wand.
  • Shot volume and pre-infusion time.
  Once you’ve perfected your settings, you can save your recipes for future use, accommodating up to eight personalized profiles.
• Responsiveness and Clarity: The touchscreen is highly responsive, with bright and clear visuals that make it easy to navigate even in low lighting. The touch interface also contributes to the machine’s sleek design, enhancing its overall aesthetic.

2. Integrated Conical Burr Grinder with Smart Dosing

The Barista Touch Impress features an integrated conical burr grinder, eliminating the need for a separate grinder and making the machine a true all-in-one solution.

• Grind Consistency: The burr grinder delivers consistently ground coffee, a critical factor for extracting balanced and flavorful espresso. The grind size is adjustable, with 30 settings ranging from coarse (ideal for French press) to fine (for espresso).
• Grind Size Dial: Located on the side of the machine, the dial is easily accessible and intuitive to use. Adjusting the grind size is smooth and precise, allowing you to match your beans’ specific requirements.
• Smart Dosing System: The grinder works seamlessly with the machine’s Impress Puck System, which automatically calculates and dispenses the ideal amount of coffee for your selected shot. The system adjusts the dose based on the grind size and other parameters, ensuring consistent puck formation and minimizing waste.

3. Impress Puck System

One of the standout innovations is the Impress Puck System, a unique feature designed to simplify and perfect the tamping process.

• Automatic Tamping: After grinding, the machine automatically tamps the grounds with just the right amount of pressure. This eliminates the guesswork often involved in manual tamping, ensuring the puck is evenly compacted and ready for optimal extraction.
• Correction for Over- or Under-Dosing: If the dose is slightly off, the system automatically compensates by adjusting the tamp pressure, resulting in a consistently level puck.
• Ease for Beginners: The Impress Puck System is a boon for those new to espresso machines, as it ensures professional-quality tamping without the learning curve. Even seasoned baristas can appreciate the time-saving convenience.

4. ThermoJet Heating System

The ThermoJet heating system is a key feature that sets the Barista Touch Impress apart from older models and many competitors.

• Rapid Heat-Up Time: The system heats up in just three seconds, making the machine ready to brew almost instantly. This is a significant advantage for busy mornings when every second counts.
• Temperature Stability: Equipped with a PID (Proportional-Integral-Derivative) controller, the machine maintains a stable brewing temperature, which is critical for consistent espresso extraction. This level of precision ensures that the flavors in your coffee are fully developed without bitterness or sourness.
• Energy Efficiency: The ThermoJet system is also energy-efficient, as it eliminates the need for a traditional boiler to maintain a constant temperature. The machine quickly heats water on demand, reducing energy consumption during idle times.

5. Automatic and Manual Milk Frothing

Milk frothing is a crucial aspect of creating beverages like lattes and cappuccinos, and the Barista Touch Impress offers versatility with both automatic and manual milk frothing options.

• Automatic Frothing: The steam wand is equipped with sensors that monitor milk temperature and texture during frothing. Users can select their preferred milk texture (microfoam, standard froth, etc.) and temperature via the touchscreen. The wand automatically stops when the desired parameters are reached.
• Consistency: The automatic frothing delivers consistent results, making it easier to create café-quality milk-based drinks. Microfoam, essential for latte art, is silky and smooth, while cappuccino foam is light and airy.
• Manual Frothing: For more experienced users, the steam wand can be operated manually. This gives full control over frothing technique and allows for creative touches like latte art. The wand swivels freely, making it easy to position the milk jug for optimal steaming.

6. Customizable Settings

The ability to fine-tune your coffee-making experience is one of the Barista Touch Impress’s biggest strengths. Customization options include:

• Brew Temperature: Adjustable in precise increments to match the ideal extraction range for different beans.
• Shot Volume: Modify the amount of espresso dispensed per shot, with options for single and double shots.
• Milk Texture: From fine microfoam to dense froth, the settings cover a wide range of preferences.
• Pre-Infusion Time: Adjust how long water is allowed to saturate the coffee grounds before full-pressure brewing begins, which can enhance extraction for certain beans.

Once customized, these settings can be saved to user profiles, allowing multiple household members to enjoy their favorite drinks with a single touch.

7. Water Reservoir and Filtration

The machine features a 2-liter water reservoir, offering ample capacity for several drinks before needing a refill. The reservoir is removable for easy refilling and cleaning.

• Built-In Water Filter: Breville includes a water filter to improve water quality, which is essential for the taste of the coffee and the longevity of the machine. The touchscreen prompts you when it’s time to replace the filter.

8. Maintenance and Cleaning Features

The Barista Touch Impress is designed to minimize the effort required for cleaning and maintenance.

• Self-Cleaning Functions: The machine includes automated cleaning cycles for the milk system and group head. This feature ensures hygiene and reduces the need for manual scrubbing.
• Prompts and Alerts: The touchscreen provides clear alerts for maintenance tasks, such as descaling, emptying the drip tray, or replacing the water filter.
• Puck Disposal System: The used coffee puck container is easy to remove and clean, holding multiple pucks before needing to be emptied.

9. Compact Design with Built-In Storage

While not an external feature, the built-in storage compartments for tools and accessories add to the machine’s convenience. The tamper and cleaning tools are housed neatly within the unit, reducing countertop clutter and ensuring everything is within easy reach.

Final Thoughts on Key Features

The Breville Barista Touch Impress is a feature-packed machine that blends advanced technology with ease of use. Its touchscreen interface, Impress Puck System, and ThermoJet heating streamline the coffee-making process, while customizable settings allow for personalized brewing. Whether you’re a beginner looking for simplicity or an enthusiast seeking precision, the features of this machine cater to every skill level and preference. It’s a truly all-in-one solution for crafting café-quality beverages at home.

Setup and Ease of Use

The Breville Barista Touch Impress excels in making the process of setting up and operating an espresso machine straightforward and approachable, even for first-time users. From unboxing to brewing your first espresso, the machine’s thoughtful design and intuitive features simplify what can often be an intimidating process with traditional espresso makers. Here’s a detailed look at the setup and usability.

Initial Setup

Setting up the Barista Touch Impress is a hassle-free experience, thanks to its clear instructions and guided touchscreen interface. The box includes all the essentials you’ll need to get started, including the portafilter, milk jug, tamper, cleaning tools, and a water filter.

• Guided Start-Up Process: Upon turning on the machine, the responsive touchscreen guides you through an easy-to-follow setup process. Steps include:
  • Installing and priming the water filter in the 2-liter reservoir.
  • Filling the bean hopper with your preferred coffee beans.
  • Running an initial rinse cycle to ensure the machine is clean and ready for use.
  For those unfamiliar with espresso machines, the step-by-step instructions eliminate guesswork and reduce the chances of making errors.
• Calibrating the Grinder: The machine prompts you to calibrate the built-in grinder for your specific coffee beans. This involves running a test grind, checking the dose, and adjusting the grind size via the external dial. The Impress Puck System takes over from there, automatically fine-tuning the tamp pressure for consistent results.

The entire setup process takes about 15–20 minutes, making it efficient without being overwhelming. The included manual provides additional guidance for troubleshooting if needed, but the touchscreen is comprehensive enough to guide most users through the process smoothly.

User-Friendly Touchscreen Interface

The centerpiece of the Barista Touch Impress’s usability is its touchscreen interface. It’s designed to accommodate users of all experience levels, from beginners to seasoned baristas. Key usability features include:

• Drink Selection: Pre-programmed recipes for espresso, cappuccino, flat white, and more are just a tap away. For those unfamiliar with coffee jargon, visual aids on the screen help clarify the difference between drinks.
• Step-by-Step Guidance: For each drink, the machine walks you through grinding, tamping, and brewing, ensuring even beginners can achieve café-quality results.
• Customizable Profiles: Advanced users can dive into the settings to tweak parameters such as grind size, brew temperature, and milk frothing texture, saving their preferences for future use.

Ease of Use in Daily Operation

In day-to-day use, the Barista Touch Impress shines in its ability to make coffee brewing seamless. The ThermoJet heating system ensures the machine is ready to brew within just three seconds of powering on, eliminating long wait times typical of older models.

• Smart Automation: The Impress Puck System automates grinding and tamping, removing two of the trickiest steps in espresso preparation. Beginners can feel confident knowing that the machine handles these processes with precision.
• Streamlined Workflow: Everything is designed to work together seamlessly, from the integrated grinder dispensing grounds directly into the portafilter to the intuitive positioning of the steam wand and milk frothing jug.

The machine’s layout also contributes to ease of use:

• The portafilter and group head are positioned at an ergonomic height, making it easy to insert and remove the portafilter.
• The drip tray is easily accessible and features a float indicator to alert you when it needs to be emptied.
• The water reservoir is removable, making refilling and cleaning a straightforward task, though its rear placement might require pulling the machine forward on the counter.

Learning Curve

For beginners, the Barista Touch Impress offers a forgiving learning curve. The automated processes—such as tamping, milk frothing, and cleaning—simplify steps that can be challenging for newcomers. For more experienced users, the machine’s customizable settings and manual frothing mode provide plenty of opportunities for experimentation and control.

Final Thoughts on Setup and Ease of Use

The Breville Barista Touch Impress is a well-thought-out machine that caters to a wide range of users. Its guided setup process and intuitive interface remove the intimidation factor commonly associated with espresso machines, while its seamless operation and customizable options keep advanced users engaged. Whether you’re a beginner looking for ease or an experienced barista wanting precision, the Barista Touch Impress strikes the perfect balance between simplicity and sophistication.

Coffee Grinding and Dosing

The Breville Barista Touch Impress takes the complexity out of grinding and dosing coffee, thanks to its innovative design and built-in technologies. These features ensure consistent results, which are essential for brewing high-quality espresso, while providing enough flexibility for users to experiment with different grind sizes and coffee types. Let’s dive deeper into the machine’s grinding and dosing capabilities.

Integrated Conical Burr Grinder

A standout feature of the Barista Touch Impress is its integrated conical burr grinder, which eliminates the need for a separate grinder. This integration not only saves counter space but also simplifies the workflow by delivering freshly ground coffee directly into the portafilter.

• Consistency: The grinder excels at delivering uniform particle sizes, which is crucial for achieving balanced extraction. Whether you’re pulling a single shot or a double, the grinder ensures the grounds are evenly processed, minimizing the risk of over- or under-extraction.
• Adjustable Grind Size: The machine offers 30 grind size settings, controlled by a dial conveniently located on the side. This level of adjustability allows users to fine-tune the grind to match their preferred coffee beans, whether they’re lighter-roasted single origins or darker espresso blends. I found the middle range of settings ideal for most espressos, but the finer settings cater well to specialty beans requiring precision.
• Grind Freshness: The burr grinder dispenses coffee directly into the portafilter, preserving freshness by minimizing the time between grinding and brewing. This ensures optimal flavor extraction.

Smart Dosing System

The machine’s Smart Dosing System works in harmony with the grinder to deliver precise amounts of coffee grounds for each shot. It’s particularly useful for users who are new to espresso, as it automates what is often a trial-and-error process.

• Dose Adjustment: The system calculates the optimal dose of coffee based on your selected grind size and other parameters. For example, if you adjust the grind size to be finer, the machine compensates by adjusting the grind duration to maintain consistent volume.
• Reduced Waste: By automatically measuring the dose, the system minimizes the risk of over-grinding or wasting coffee, a common issue for beginners.

Impress Puck System

What truly elevates the grinding and dosing experience is the Impress Puck System, a groundbreaking feature designed to make tamping foolproof.

• Automatic Tamping: After grinding, the machine tamps the grounds automatically, applying consistent pressure to create a well-compacted puck. This feature is particularly valuable for beginners, as tamping inconsistencies can lead to uneven extraction.
• Corrections for Over- or Under-Dosing: If the grounds are slightly over- or under-dosed, the Impress Puck System compensates by adjusting the tamping force to ensure the puck remains level and evenly compressed. This small but impactful adjustment ensures consistent results shot after shot.
• Ease of Use: The automatic tamping process removes a significant manual step, making the machine accessible to users who might otherwise struggle with traditional tamping techniques.

Customizability and Control

While the Smart Dosing System and Impress Puck System automate much of the grinding and tamping process, the Barista Touch Impress also offers ample room for customization:

• Users can adjust the grind size with precision to suit different coffee types and brewing preferences.
• Advanced users can override the dosing system by manually controlling the amount of coffee dispensed, allowing for complete creative freedom.

Performance in Practice

During testing, the grinding and dosing systems worked seamlessly together to produce consistently excellent results. The grinder’s performance was reliable across a range of beans, and the Smart Dosing System ensured I didn’t have to worry about precise measurements or adjustments. The Impress Puck System’s automatic tamping eliminated a common source of frustration for less experienced users, while still delivering results that would satisfy a professional barista.

Final Thoughts on Coffee Grinding and Dosing

The Breville Barista Touch Impress excels in grinding and dosing, combining precision with ease of use. The built-in burr grinder, Smart Dosing System, and Impress Puck System work in perfect harmony to produce consistent, café-quality coffee every time. Whether you’re a beginner seeking simplicity or a seasoned barista looking for control, this machine’s grinding and dosing capabilities will meet—and likely exceed—your expectations. It’s an intuitive yet powerful system that sets the Barista Touch Impress apart from competitors.

Espresso Extraction

The Breville Barista Touch Impress is designed to take the guesswork out of espresso extraction, offering both automation and customization to deliver consistently excellent results. Whether you’re new to making espresso or an experienced home barista, the machine’s thoughtful features ensure a high-quality coffee experience. Let’s explore the extraction process in greater detail, breaking down its technology, performance, and user options.

The Role of Technology in Extraction

At the heart of the Barista Touch Impress’s espresso-making process is a combination of advanced technologies that work together to achieve optimal flavor and aroma from your coffee beans.

• PID Temperature Control: The machine’s PID (Proportional-Integral-Derivative) controller ensures precise water temperature regulation, a crucial factor in espresso extraction. The PID maintains a stable temperature throughout the brewing process, preventing fluctuations that could lead to bitter or sour flavors. With the ability to adjust the brew temperature in precise increments (±5°F), users can fine-tune their shots to match the requirements of different coffee beans.
• ThermoJet Heating System: Complementing the PID is the ThermoJet heating system, which heats water in just three seconds. This rapid heating eliminates long waiting times, ensuring that you can start brewing almost instantly after powering on the machine. The consistent delivery of hot water at the perfect temperature contributes significantly to the overall quality of the espresso.
• Low-Pressure Pre-Infusion: Before full-pressure brewing begins, the machine uses a low-pressure pre-infusion process. This step gently saturates the coffee grounds with water, allowing them to expand evenly and minimizing the risk of channeling. Pre-infusion ensures that the extraction is uniform, resulting in a balanced and well-rounded shot.

Espresso Shot Quality

The Barista Touch Impress delivers consistently high-quality espresso shots that rival those from professional café machines. Key aspects of its performance include:

• Crema Formation: The machine produces a rich, velvety crema, a hallmark of properly extracted espresso. This is achieved through the combination of stable temperature, precise pressure, and even saturation of the coffee grounds.
• Flavor Balance: The resulting shots are full-bodied and well-balanced, with distinct flavor notes depending on the beans used. Whether I brewed with medium-roasted beans for a nutty flavor or lighter-roasted single-origin beans for fruity and floral notes, the machine extracted the full potential of the coffee.
• Customizable Extraction: Users can control shot volume (single or double) and adjust pre-infusion time for more tailored results. These options make it easy to experiment and fine-tune the extraction process to suit individual preferences.

User-Friendly Automation

The Barista Touch Impress simplifies espresso extraction for beginners with its built-in automation and user-friendly interface.

• Impress Puck System: The automatic tamping feature of the Impress Puck System ensures the coffee puck is evenly compacted and ready for optimal extraction. This eliminates the need for manual tamping, which can be challenging for those new to espresso machines.
• Pre-Programmed Recipes: The touchscreen includes pre-set recipes for espresso and other beverages, taking the guesswork out of shot timing and volume. With a single tap, the machine calculates the ideal parameters and delivers a perfectly extracted shot every time.

Customization for Advanced Users

While the machine offers ample automation, it also caters to experienced users who want greater control over the extraction process.

• Brew Temperature Adjustment: Advanced users can tweak the brew temperature to accommodate different types of beans or brewing methods. For example, lighter roasts often require slightly higher temperatures to fully extract their flavors, while darker roasts benefit from lower temperatures to avoid bitterness.
• Pre-Infusion Settings: Adjusting the pre-infusion duration allows users to experiment with saturation levels, which can significantly impact the final flavor profile.
• Shot Timing and Volume: The machine allows users to manually adjust shot timing and volume, offering flexibility for those who prefer ristretto or lungo shots over standard espresso.

Reliability and Consistency

One of the most impressive aspects of the Barista Touch Impress is its ability to deliver consistent results shot after shot. The combination of its stable temperature control, even pressure application, and precise pre-infusion ensures repeatable performance, regardless of the coffee beans or grind size.

During testing, the machine consistently produced espresso shots with uniform quality, even when switching between different beans. The level of precision rivals that of professional-grade machines, making it an excellent choice for serious coffee enthusiasts.

Performance Over Time

Over several weeks of use, the Barista Touch Impress maintained its high level of performance. Unlike some machines that lose consistency over time, this model demonstrated robust reliability, thanks to its durable construction and advanced engineering.

The automated cleaning cycles for the group head help maintain optimal extraction conditions, ensuring the machine continues to perform at its best without requiring extensive maintenance.

Final Thoughts on Espresso Extraction

The espresso extraction process is where the Breville Barista Touch Impress truly shines. Its advanced technologies, such as PID temperature control and the Impress Puck System, work seamlessly together to deliver café-quality shots with minimal effort. Whether you rely on its automation for consistent results or delve into its customizable settings for greater control, the machine offers an exceptional brewing experience.

For beginners, the automation simplifies the extraction process, making high-quality espresso accessible with minimal learning curve. For seasoned baristas, the ability to fine-tune variables like brew temperature and pre-infusion time provides ample room for experimentation and creativity. The Barista Touch Impress is not just a machine—it’s a reliable partner in your coffee-making journey.

Milk Frothing Performance

Milk frothing is a critical component of crafting high-quality lattes, cappuccinos, and flat whites. The Breville Barista Touch Impress delivers an outstanding milk frothing experience that accommodates both beginners and advanced users. With its automated frothing system and manual capabilities, the machine ensures consistent and professional results while offering enough flexibility for those who enjoy fine-tuning their technique. Here’s a detailed breakdown of its milk frothing performance.

Automatic Milk Frothing

One of the standout features of the Barista Touch Impress is its automatic milk frothing system, which simplifies creating milk-based drinks without sacrificing quality.

• Precision Temperature Control: The steam wand is equipped with a temperature sensor that monitors the milk’s heat level in real-time. Users can select their preferred milk temperature (ranging from warm to hot) via the touchscreen interface. The wand automatically stops when the desired temperature is reached, ensuring the milk is never overheated or scalded.
• Texture Customization: The touchscreen allows users to choose from a range of milk textures, from silky microfoam suitable for latte art to frothy, airy milk ideal for cappuccinos. These settings make it easy to craft drinks that meet personal preferences or match café-quality standards.
• Consistency: The automatic frothing system delivers reliably consistent results. Regardless of the milk type (dairy or non-dairy alternatives like oat, almond, or soy), the system produces smooth, well-textured milk with minimal effort.

For beginners, this automation eliminates the steep learning curve often associated with frothing milk manually. It ensures drinks are visually appealing and taste as they would in a professional café.

Manual Frothing Option

For more experienced users, the Barista Touch Impress offers the option to froth milk manually, granting full control over texture and temperature.

• Powerful Steam Wand: The steam wand generates strong, dry steam that provides ample power for manual frothing. Its strength is comparable to those found on commercial machines, making it suitable for crafting intricate latte art or achieving specific frothing results.
• Full Range of Motion: The wand is fully articulated, allowing users to position it at the perfect angle for frothing. This feature makes it easier to create a whirlpool effect in the milk jug, which is essential for producing silky microfoam.
• Creative Freedom: Manual frothing is ideal for advanced users who enjoy experimenting with milk frothing techniques. It’s especially useful for creating custom foam densities or intricate patterns for latte art.

Performance with Different Milk Types

The Barista Touch Impress performs exceptionally well with a variety of milk types. While traditional dairy milk achieves the best microfoam for latte art, the machine handles non-dairy alternatives impressively. Oat milk, almond milk, and soy milk foam well with the automatic frothing system, making the machine a versatile choice for households with diverse dietary preferences.

User-Friendly Design

The steam wand’s design enhances usability and simplifies maintenance:

• Auto-Clean Function: After frothing, the machine prompts users to clean the steam wand, which involves a quick purge of steam to remove milk residue. This feature maintains hygiene and prevents clogging.
• Ergonomic Jug: The included stainless steel milk jug is ergonomically designed for ease of use and features a spout that’s perfect for pouring latte art.

Final Thoughts on Milk Frothing Performance

The Breville Barista Touch Impress excels in milk frothing, offering a combination of automation and manual options to suit users of all skill levels. The automatic frothing system is a game-changer for beginners, providing consistent, café-quality results with minimal effort. For advanced users, the powerful steam wand and manual frothing option open up opportunities for creativity and precision. Whether you’re crafting a velvety latte or a frothy cappuccino, the machine’s milk frothing capabilities ensure exceptional results every time.

Cleaning and Maintenance

The Breville Barista Touch Impress is designed with convenience in mind, offering automated cleaning features and user-friendly maintenance routines that ensure the machine remains in peak condition. Proper upkeep is essential for preserving the quality of your coffee and the longevity of your espresso machine, and the Barista Touch Impress makes this process remarkably straightforward. Here’s an in-depth look at its cleaning and maintenance features.

Daily Cleaning Routines

Cleaning after daily use is simple, thanks to the machine’s intuitive design and built-in prompts.

• Drip Tray Maintenance: The removable drip tray features a “Full” indicator that pops up when it needs to be emptied. Its segmented design makes it easy to separate and rinse individual components. The tray is spacious enough to collect excess water from brewing and steam purging, reducing the frequency of cleaning.
• Steam Wand Cleaning: After every milk frothing session, the machine prompts you to clean the steam wand. The auto-purge function ejects steam to clear out any milk residue, preventing clogging and ensuring optimal performance. For thorough cleaning, the wand can be wiped down with a damp cloth, and its tip can be unscrewed for deeper cleaning if needed.
• Portafilter and Group Head: The portafilter and group head should be wiped clean after each use to remove coffee grounds and oils. The group head is designed for easy access, and the included cleaning brush simplifies the process.

Automated Cleaning Cycles

The Barista Touch Impress incorporates automated cleaning cycles that take care of the more labor-intensive maintenance tasks.

• Group Head Cleaning: The machine periodically prompts users to run a cleaning cycle for the group head. This process involves inserting the included cleaning disk and a cleaning tablet into the portafilter. The machine then runs a cycle to flush out coffee oils and residue, keeping the internal components clean and functioning efficiently.
• Milk System Cleaning: The steam wand’s auto-purge is complemented by occasional prompts to perform a deeper cleaning of the milk system. This ensures the wand remains free of dried milk residue, which could affect the texture of frothed milk over time.

Descaling

Descaling is an essential maintenance task that prevents mineral buildup, especially in areas with hard water. The Barista Touch Impress simplifies this process:

• Automated Prompts: The machine alerts you when it’s time to descale, based on usage and water hardness settings configured during setup.
• Step-by-Step Guidance: The touchscreen interface provides detailed instructions for running the descaling process, making it easy to follow without referring to the manual.
• Descaling Solution Compatibility: The machine works with Breville’s proprietary descaling solution or equivalent alternatives.

Removable Components

Several removable components contribute to the ease of cleaning:

• Water Reservoir: The 2-liter water reservoir is detachable, making it easy to rinse and refill. Its design also accommodates a water filter, which reduces scale buildup and improves water quality.
• Puck Container: The used coffee puck container slides out easily and can hold multiple pucks, so you don’t need to empty it after every shot. It’s simple to rinse clean under running water.

Long-Term Maintenance

Breville includes all the necessary tools for maintaining the machine in the long term:

• Cleaning Tools: The machine comes with a cleaning brush, cleaning tablets, and a cleaning disk for the portafilter.
• Storage Drawer: A hidden compartment at the base of the machine provides convenient storage for tools, keeping them organized and within reach.

Final Thoughts on Cleaning and Maintenance

The Breville Barista Touch Impress excels in simplifying cleaning and maintenance, ensuring the machine remains in top condition with minimal effort. The combination of daily cleaning prompts, automated cycles, and clear instructions makes upkeep accessible for all users. Whether you’re a casual coffee drinker or a daily espresso enthusiast, this machine’s thoughtful design takes the hassle out of maintenance, allowing you to focus on enjoying your coffee.

Performance in Everyday Use

The Breville Barista Touch Impress delivers an exceptional performance in everyday use, striking a perfect balance between speed, convenience, and quality. Designed to cater to both casual coffee drinkers and serious espresso enthusiasts, the machine simplifies daily coffee routines while maintaining a consistently high standard for beverages. Over several weeks of testing, its reliability and thoughtful design proved invaluable for creating café-quality drinks in the comfort of home.

Quick Start and Energy Efficiency

One of the standout features in everyday use is the ThermoJet heating system, which brings the machine to brewing temperature in just three seconds. This rapid heat-up time eliminates the frustration of waiting, making the Barista Touch Impress ideal for busy mornings. You can go from powering on the machine to brewing your first shot in under a minute.

The machine is also energy-efficient, automatically entering standby mode after a period of inactivity. This feature not only reduces energy consumption but also ensures safety when the machine is left unattended.

Seamless Workflow

The Barista Touch Impress is designed with an intuitive workflow that enhances the user experience during daily operation.

• Integrated Grinder and Tamping: The built-in conical burr grinder and Impress Puck System work together to simplify grinding and tamping. These automated features ensure consistent dosing and puck formation, reducing manual effort and minimizing the risk of errors.
• Streamlined Process: The machine’s layout ensures a smooth brewing experience. Freshly ground coffee is dispensed directly into the portafilter, and the group head is positioned at an ergonomic height for easy insertion. The proximity of the steam wand and the drip tray allows for a natural flow from brewing to milk frothing and cleanup.

Drink Customization on Demand

The machine’s touchscreen interface plays a key role in daily usability, offering easy access to pre-programmed drink recipes and customization options. Whether you prefer a quick espresso or a finely tuned latte, the Barista Touch Impress delivers consistently great results:

• User Profiles: The ability to save up to eight personalized drink recipes is a major convenience for households with multiple coffee drinkers. Each profile retains specific grind size, milk texture, and shot volume preferences.
• Quick Adjustments: With just a few taps, you can tweak settings like brew temperature or shot volume to suit your mood or the type of coffee you’re using.

Cleaning Between Uses

Daily cleaning is remarkably simple, thanks to the machine’s design:

• The steam wand’s auto-purge function ensures that milk residue is cleared out immediately after frothing, preventing clogs and maintaining hygiene.
• The drip tray indicator and accessible puck container streamline post-brewing cleanup, allowing you to focus more on enjoying your coffee and less on maintenance.

Consistency and Reliability

What sets the Barista Touch Impress apart in everyday use is its consistency. Each shot of espresso maintains the same high quality, with rich crema, balanced flavor, and excellent temperature control. The machine performs equally well with different types of beans, whether you’re using light-roasted single-origin coffee or a dark roast espresso blend.

Over weeks of testing, the machine showed no degradation in performance, handling heavy use without missing a beat. The PID temperature control and stable pressure delivery are instrumental in maintaining these consistent results.

Final Thoughts on Performance in Everyday Use

The Breville Barista Touch Impress excels in everyday use, offering unparalleled speed, consistency, and ease. Its intuitive workflow, rapid heat-up time, and customizable features make it a joy to use, whether you’re crafting a quick morning espresso or experimenting with complex latte art. Designed to simplify the coffee-making process without compromising quality, this machine is a reliable and impressive addition to any kitchen.

Value for Money

Price Point

The Breville Barista Touch Impress is priced in the premium range, typically around $1,200 to $1,500. While it’s an investment, the features and performance justify the cost for coffee enthusiasts.

Comparisons

Compared to competitors like the De’Longhi La Specialista Maestro or Gaggia Cadorna Prestige, the Barista Touch Impress stands out for its touchscreen interface and smart tamping system. It offers a middle ground between full automation and manual control.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• User-Friendly Interface: The touchscreen simplifies operation without sacrificing flexibility.
• Consistent Espresso Quality: Smart tamping and precise temperature control produce excellent shots.
• Rapid Heating: The ThermoJet system minimizes waiting time.
• Customizability: Adjustable grind size, temperature, and milk texture.
• Integrated Grinder: Saves space and ensures freshness.

Cons

• Premium Price: The high cost may deter casual users.
• Water Reservoir Access: Located at the back, which can be inconvenient in tight spaces.
• Limited Manual Overrides: Some advanced users might find the automation restrictive.

Final Verdict

The Breville Barista Touch Impress is a well-rounded espresso machine that bridges the gap between convenience and control. Its innovative features, like the touchscreen interface and Impress tamping system, make it a standout choice for both novices and experienced baristas. While the price may seem steep, the performance, build quality, and ease of use justify the investment for anyone serious about home brewing.

If you’re looking for a machine that delivers coffee shop-quality drinks with minimal effort, the Breville Barista Touch Impress is worth every penny. It’s an excellent companion for anyone who appreciates the art of coffee making.