Breville RM-BES880BSS1BUS1 Barista Touch Espresso vs KitchenAid Fully Automatic Espresso Machine KF7

Price Comparison

The Breville RM-BES880BSS1BUS1 Barista Touch Espresso Machine is priced at $669.95, while the KitchenAid Fully Automatic Espresso Machine KF7 with Milk Attachment comes in at $1,699.99. This means the KitchenAid is about 154% more expensive than the Breville, making the Breville a significantly more budget-friendly option for those looking to enjoy quality espresso at home. For coffee enthusiasts who want great performance without breaking the bank, the Breville offers substantial savings.

Design and Build Quality

Both machines feature impressive designs, but they cater to slightly different aesthetics. The Breville boasts a brushed stainless steel finish that is both modern and sleek, while the KitchenAid offers a durable metal-clad construction that emphasizes longevity and reliability. The Breville's design is compact, making it easier to fit into smaller kitchens, whereas the KitchenAid's robust build suggests it is designed for users who prioritize durability. If you're looking for a machine that combines beauty with compactness, the Breville might be more appealing.

Brewing Features

The Breville Barista Touch excels with its integrated precision conical burr grinder, allowing for dose-controlled grinding to ensure maximum flavor extraction. It features a low-pressure pre-infusion system that gradually increases pressure for balanced extraction, and boasts a rapid heat-up time of just three seconds. The KitchenAid, on the other hand, includes smart dosing technology for easy preparation and a dual drink delivery system for personalized milk drinks. While both machines offer great brewing capabilities, the Breville's advanced features may provide a more nuanced espresso experience.

Milk Frothing Capabilities

When it comes to milk frothing, both machines have their unique strengths. The Breville has an automatic steam wand that allows for customizable milk temperature and texture, essential for creating barista-quality microfoam and latte art at home. Conversely, the KitchenAid simplifies the frothing process with a milk hose that can be placed in any container, automatically frothing and heating milk with the push of a button. If you prefer control over your frothing process, the Breville may be the better choice, but for convenience, the KitchenAid shines.

User Interface and Experience

The Breville Barista Touch features an intuitive touch screen that simplifies the coffee-making process into three easy steps: grind, brew, and milk. Users can create and save up to eight personalized coffee settings, which enhances the overall user experience. Meanwhile, the KitchenAid allows users to personalize and store their own recipes based on strength, length, and temperature, catering to individual preferences. The Breville’s touch screen may appeal more to tech-savvy users, while the KitchenAid provides a straightforward approach for those who value simplicity.

Capacity and Settings

In terms of capacity, the Breville has a 67 oz water tank and a 1/2 lb bean hopper, making it suitable for multiple servings without frequent refills. It offers five pre-programmed café favorites along with customizable settings, providing a well-rounded experience for different tastes. The KitchenAid’s removable bean hopper allows for easy refilling, but specific capacity details are not highlighted. While both machines cater to different needs, the Breville offers a more extensive range of settings and features for varied coffee preferences.

Performance and Efficiency

The Breville Barista Touch is designed to deliver third wave specialty coffee quickly and efficiently, achieving optimal extraction temperatures in just three seconds. Its focus on flavor and speed makes it a strong contender for performance-oriented users. The KitchenAid, while also efficient, emphasizes user-friendliness and personalized options with its automatic features. For coffee aficionados looking for a machine that prioritizes both speed and flavor, the Breville stands out as the more efficient option.

Which should you buy?

Ultimately, the choice between the Breville RM-BES880BSS1BUS1 Barista Touch and the KitchenAid Fully Automatic Espresso Machine KF7 hinges on your personal preferences and budget. The Breville, priced at $669.95, offers superior features for the price, including a built-in grinder, customizable settings, and faster brewing capabilities. In contrast, the KitchenAid, at $1,699.99, focuses on convenience and ease of use with its automatic milk frothing and smart dosing technology. For cost-conscious espresso lovers who appreciate advanced brewing features, the Breville is the clear winner. However, if you're willing to invest more for added convenience and a robust build, the KitchenAid could be the right choice for you.