Breville Barista Touch Espresso Machine BES880BSS, vs OXO Brew 9-Cup Coffee Maker – Stainless Steel,

Price Comparison

The Breville Barista Touch Espresso Machine is priced at $999.95, while the OXO Brew 9-Cup Coffee Maker is significantly cheaper at $223.00. This makes the OXO Brew about 78% less expensive than the Breville model. For those who are looking for a budget-friendly option without sacrificing quality, the OXO Brew presents a compelling choice. On the other hand, the Breville caters to coffee enthusiasts who desire a premium espresso experience, but at a premium price point. The stark difference in cost is a critical factor for consumers weighing their options between these two machines.

Brewing Capability

The Breville Barista Touch is designed for those who want a full espresso-making experience, utilizing a built-in conical burr grinder to grind coffee beans on demand. This feature allows for maximum flavor extraction and ease of use, going from beans to espresso in under one minute. In contrast, the OXO Brew provides a reliable drip brewing method, recognized by the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) for its precision. It maintains optimal brewing temperatures between 197.6°F and 204.8°F, ensuring a delicious cup every time. While both machines excel in their respective brewing methods, the choice ultimately depends on whether the user prefers espresso or drip coffee.

User Experience

The Breville Barista Touch excels with its intuitive touch screen display, simplifying the coffee-making process into three easy steps: Grind, Brew, and Milk. Users can customize their drinks by adjusting coffee strength, milk texture, and temperature, with the option to save up to eight personalized settings. Conversely, the OXO Brew features a single dial that makes programming straightforward, allowing users to choose cup counts and set an automatic wake-up timer. While both machines prioritize user-friendliness, the Breville offers a more advanced and customizable experience for serious coffee lovers, whereas the OXO is suitable for those who prefer a simpler, more straightforward coffee-making process.

Design and Build Quality

The Breville Barista Touch is crafted in brushed stainless steel, exuding a modern and professional look that fits seamlessly in any kitchen. It includes a variety of accessories, such as a stainless steel jug and a full stainless steel portafilter, adding to its overall premium feel. The OXO Brew also features a stainless steel design, but its focus is more utilitarian, aimed at functionality over aesthetic appeal. Both machines are well-built, but the Breville's design elements cater to users who appreciate high-end kitchen appliances, while the OXO Brew offers a solid yet less luxurious option.

Maintenance and Cleaning

The Breville Barista Touch comes with a comprehensive cleaning kit and water hardness test strip, making it easier to maintain optimal performance over time. Its automatic features, such as the steam wand, also require regular cleaning to ensure longevity. On the other hand, the OXO Brew's design includes a double-wall thermal carafe that helps keep coffee hot without needing constant reheating, thus reducing the need for frequent maintenance. Both machines require care, but the Breville may involve more complex cleaning due to its multiple components and advanced features.

Additional Features

The Breville Barista Touch stands out with its automatic microfoam milk texturing system, which enhances the flavor of coffee and is essential for creating latte art at home. It also boasts a faster heat-up time thanks to its ThermoJet heating system, reaching optimal extraction temperatures in just three seconds. In comparison, the OXO Brew focuses on precision brewing with its BetterBrew technology, which optimizes brewing cycles for rich flavors and includes a freshness timer to indicate how long the coffee has been brewed. Both machines offer unique features that cater to different aspects of coffee preparation, appealing to varying consumer needs.

Brand Reputation and Sales Rank

In terms of sales rank, the Breville Barista Touch is currently ranked 32,313, while the OXO Brew holds a slightly lower rank at 45,196. Breville is often regarded as a high-end brand in the coffee machine market, known for its quality and innovation, which is reflected in the Barista Touch's features. OXO is also well-respected, particularly for its practical designs and ease of use, but it caters more to a mainstream audience. The difference in sales rank may indicate a stronger following for the Breville among dedicated coffee enthusiasts, while OXO appeals to a broader market looking for reliable coffee-making solutions.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Breville Barista Touch and the OXO Brew 9-Cup Coffee Maker ultimately depends on your coffee preferences and budget. If you're an espresso lover seeking a premium machine with advanced features and customization options, the Breville is worth the investment at $999.95. However, if you're looking for a straightforward, budget-friendly option that consistently brews delicious drip coffee, the OXO Brew at $223.00 is an excellent choice. Each machine serves its purpose well, but they cater to distinctly different types of coffee drinkers.