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Advanced espresso machine with touchscreen and customization.

Sage the Barista Touch Impress review

Elevate your home coffee experience with the Breville Barista Touch Impress. Sleek design, intuitive touchscreen, and customizable settings make every cup a delight for coffee lovers!

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Sage the Barista Touch Impress
Sage the Barista Touch Impress
Sage the Barista Touch Impress
Sage the Barista Touch Impress
Sage the Barista Touch Impress
Sage the Barista Touch Impress
Sage the Barista Touch Impress
Sage the Barista Touch Impress
Sage the Barista Touch Impress
Sage the Barista Touch Impress
Sage the Barista Touch Impress
Sage the Barista Touch Impress
Sage the Barista Touch Impress
Sage the Barista Touch Impress
Sage the Barista Touch Impress
Sage the Barista Touch Impress
Sage the Barista Touch Impress
Sage the Barista Touch Impress
Sage the Barista Touch Impress
Sage the Barista Touch Impress
Sage the Barista Touch Impress
Sage the Barista Touch Impress
Sage the Barista Touch Impress
Sage the Barista Touch Impress
Sage the Barista Touch Impress
Sage the Barista Touch Impress
Sage the Barista Touch Impress
Sage the Barista Touch Impress
Sage the Barista Touch Impress
Sage the Barista Touch Impress

Summary / TL;DR

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The Breville Barista Touch Impress is an advanced espresso machine designed to bring café-quality coffee to your home. It combines sleek design with user-friendly technology, featuring an intuitive touchscreen interface that simplifies the coffee-making process. Its standout features include a rapid ThermoJet heating system, an integrated conical burr grinder with 30 settings, and automatic microfoam milk texturing. However, these advanced features come with a learning curve, especially for beginners, and the machine carries a premium price tag.

In terms of design, the machine is both stylish and practical, though some plastic components may not feel as premium. Its customization options are impressive, allowing users to adjust grind size, strength, and milk texture, though manual frothing enthusiasts might find it somewhat limiting. Despite its robust functionality, the machine's weight and size could be a consideration for those with limited counter space.

Compared to competitors, the Breville Barista Touch Impress offers a unique balance of automation and personalization, making it a strong contender for coffee enthusiasts who appreciate both convenience and control. While the price may be a barrier for some, the machine's ability to consistently deliver quality coffee makes it a worthwhile investment for serious home baristas.


If you like this review, you might also like our review on the Sage Barista Express Impress or Sage Barista Express or Sage the Oracle Touch.

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Introduction

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The Breville Barista Touch Impress is making waves in the espresso machine market with its combination of sleek design and advanced technology. If you're someone who appreciates the art of coffee making but doesn't want to spend all day perfecting your brew, this machine could be a game changer. It aims to bridge the gap between professional-grade equipment and user-friendly operation, offering a semi-automatic experience that feels almost magical.

This machine is designed for both budding baristas and seasoned coffee aficionados. It’s all about bringing the café experience into your home without the need for a degree in coffee science. With its intuitive interface and customizable options, it promises to cater to your coffee whims with ease. However, it's worth mentioning that this level of sophistication comes with a bit of a learning curve for complete beginners.

The Breville Barista Touch Impress stands out with its promise of quality and consistency in every cup. Whether you're into a rich espresso, a creamy cappuccino, or a frothy latte, it aims to deliver with precision. Yet, its premium features do come with a premium price tag, so it's something to consider if you're on a budget. Overall, this machine is all about elevating your coffee game with convenience and style. Ready to see what this espresso wizard can do? Let's dive in!

Design and Build Quality

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The design and build quality of the Breville Barista Touch Impress is quite striking. This machine boasts a sleek and modern appearance with a brushed stainless steel finish that’s sure to complement any kitchen decor. The design is not just about aesthetics though; it also offers practical benefits. The compact size ensures it fits comfortably on most countertops without hogging too much space.

The touchscreen interface is another standout aspect, offering a user-friendly experience with clear, intuitive controls. This feature makes it easy to navigate through the various settings and options. The build quality feels robust, with a solid construction that suggests durability. However, the plastic components, such as the drip tray, might not feel as premium as the rest of the machine. They do the job well but could potentially show wear over time.

One thing to consider is the weight. While the machine is sturdy, it’s not exactly lightweight. Moving it around might require some muscle, so it's best to find a permanent spot for it in your kitchen. Overall, the Breville Barista Touch Impress combines style and functionality quite effectively, though there’s room for improvement in some areas of the material choices.

Sage the Barista Touch Impress

Features and Technology

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The Breville Barista Touch Impress is packed with some pretty cool features and technology that make it stand out in the espresso machine lineup. At its core, this machine boasts an intuitive touchscreen interface that simplifies your coffee-making experience. With just a few taps, you can select your favorite coffee style, adjust the strength, and even control the milk texture.

One of the major highlights is the ThermoJet heating system. This technology allows the machine to heat up in just 3 seconds, which means you spend less time waiting and more time enjoying your espresso. Say goodbye to those awkward pauses in your morning routine! For those who love their coffee just right, the integrated conical burr grinder is a game-changer. It offers precise control over grind size with 30 grind settings, ensuring you get the perfect extraction every time. The grinder isn't the quietest, but it's efficient and gets the job done.

The automatic microfoam milk texturing is another feature that deserves a mention. It creates silky smooth milk foam that rivals your favorite café. However, if you're a fan of manual frothing, you might find this feature a tad limiting, as it takes away some of the hands-on control.

Finally, while the machine does not explicitly feature a pre-infusion function like some other models, it does offer precise extraction through its Impress Puck System, which guides you through grinding, dosing, and tamping for a balanced flavor profile. While these features are impressive, it's worth noting that with all this tech packed in, the learning curve might be a bit steep for beginners. However, once you get the hang of it, you'll find it to be an indispensable part of your coffee journey.

Sage the Barista Touch Impress

Performance and Ease of Use

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The performance of the Breville Barista Touch Impress is quite impressive for both newbies and seasoned baristas. It heats up super quickly, thanks to its ThermoJet heating system, which means you won't be waiting around for ages to get your caffeine fix. In just three seconds, it's ready to brew, which is a huge time-saver, especially on those rushed mornings.

When it comes to ease of use, the machine's touchscreen display is a game-changer. It guides you through the espresso-making process with clear instructions and is intuitive enough that even a first-timer won't feel overwhelmed. You can select your favorite coffee style with a simple tap, and the machine takes care of the rest. Automatic grinding and tamping ensure that your coffee grounds are just right every time. The integrated grinder adjusts the dose automatically, which can be super handy if you're not quite sure about the perfect grind size. The tamping process is also automated, ensuring consistent pressure for optimal extraction.

One area where the machine could improve is the milk frothing feature. While the automatic steam wand does a decent job, it might not satisfy those who prefer to have a bit more control over their milk texture. If you're a latte art enthusiast, you might find the wand a bit limiting compared to manual options. Cleaning and maintenance are straightforward, thanks to the machine's built-in cleaning cycle, but it's worth noting that some users might find the drip tray fills up a bit too quickly. Regular emptying is a must to avoid spills.

Overall, the Breville Barista Touch Impress excels in delivering a quality espresso experience with minimal fuss. Its user-friendly design makes it accessible, while its performance features keep it competitive with more advanced machines on the market.

Customization and Control

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When it comes to customization and control, the Breville Barista Touch Impress truly stands out. This machine is perfect for those who like to tweak their coffee experience. Whether you're a latte lover or an espresso enthusiast, this machine lets you adjust various settings to suit your taste.

The machine offers a touchscreen interface that makes navigating through options a breeze. You can easily select from different coffee styles and even save your favorite settings. Want a stronger shot? No problem. You can adjust the grind size and dose to get just the right strength.

One of the highlights is the temperature control. You can set the coffee temperature to ensure your coffee is brewed just how you like it. This feature is particularly useful for those who like to experiment with different beans, as it allows you to bring out the unique flavors of each type.

The automatic milk frothing system is another gem. It lets you customize the milk texture and temperature, so whether you want a creamy cappuccino or a silky latte, the machine's got you covered. However, some users have mentioned that the frothing system might take a bit of practice to perfect, especially if you're aiming for barista-level microfoam.

For those who enjoy diving into the details, there's also a manual option for milk texturing. This gives you full control over the brewing process, allowing for a more hands-on experience. But keep in mind, mastering the manual mode might require some time and patience if you're new to espresso machines.

Overall, the Breville Barista Touch Impress provides a great balance of automation and personalization, making it a fantastic choice for both beginners and seasoned coffee enthusiasts. Just be prepared to spend a little time getting to know all the options if you want to make the most out of its capabilities.

Sage the Barista Touch Impress

What's in the Box

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When you crack open the box of the Breville Barista Touch Impress, you're greeted with a pretty comprehensive setup. First, of course, is the espresso machine itself, which sports a sleek and modern design. It's a solid piece of kit, and you'll notice that right away.

Inside, you'll find a 480ml stainless steel milk jug, which is perfect for frothing up that silky smooth milk for your lattes or cappuccinos. There's also a 54mm portafilter with a couple of filter baskets – one for single shots and another for doubles. This gives you flexibility depending on your caffeine needs.

The box also includes a Razor precision trimming tool. This might sound a bit fancy, but it's simply there to help you get the perfect amount of coffee in your portafilter every time. No more guessing or messy counters!

For maintenance, there's a handy cleaning kit tucked in there too. It includes a cleaning disc, tablets, and a small brush for those hard-to-reach spots.

Additionally, you'll find a water filter to help keep your water fresh and your coffee tasting its best. Oh, and don't forget the quick start guide and more detailed instruction manual. These are super helpful, especially if you're new to home espresso making.

However, it’s worth noting that the machine itself includes an integrated grinder, so you won't need to purchase a separate one. Overall, the box is packed with essentials and a few extras to get you started on your espresso journey.

Competitor Comparison

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When you're in the market for an espresso machine, it can be a bit overwhelming trying to figure out which one suits your needs best. Let's take a closer look at how the Breville Barista Touch Impress stacks up against some of its competitors.

Breville Barista Pro

The Breville Barista Pro is a popular choice among coffee enthusiasts. It shares some similarities with the Breville model, like the integrated grinder and digital display. However, the Barista Pro lacks the touch interface and automatic milk frothing capabilities found in the Barista Touch Impress. If you're someone who loves a bit more manual control, the Barista Pro offers a more hands-on experience, usually at a slightly lower price point.

De'Longhi La Specialista

Another contender is the De'Longhi La Specialista. This machine also boasts a built-in grinder and a smart tamping station, which are great for consistency. But, the La Specialista doesn't offer the same level of touchscreen customization that the Breville provides. It's also a bit bulkier, which might be a consideration if counter space is tight in your kitchen.

Gaggia Classic Pro

If you're looking for something more entry-level, the Gaggia Classic Pro is worth a mention. It's a sturdy machine that's well-loved for its simplicity and durability. However, it lacks the advanced features and ease of use that the Breville offers, such as the intuitive touchscreen and personalized coffee settings. It's more suited to those who enjoy the art of espresso-making without all the bells and whistles.

Jura E8

On the higher end, the Jura E8 offers a fully automatic experience with a focus on convenience and quality. It excels in producing a wide range of coffee drinks with minimal input. However, this convenience comes at a premium price, which might not be justified for those who specifically want to hone their barista skills with more hands-on control, like the Breville allows.

In summary, the Breville Barista Touch Impress stands out for its blend of user-friendly technology and the ability to customize your brew. While it may not be the cheapest option, it offers a robust set of features that appeal to both beginners and seasoned coffee lovers. If you're after a machine that makes it easy to experiment and perfect your coffee craft, the Breville is certainly a contender worth considering.

Sage the Barista Touch Impress

Conclusion

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Wrapping it all up, the Breville Barista Touch Impress stands out as a solid choice for espresso enthusiasts who crave a mix of technology and hands-on experience. Its sleek design, coupled with intuitive touchscreen controls, makes it a breeze to whip up your favorite coffee drinks. The machine's ability to blend automation with manual finesse is truly commendable, offering a sweet spot for both novices and seasoned baristas.

However, it's not all sunshine and rainbows. The price tag might be a bit steep for those just dipping their toes into the espresso world. Plus, while the machine offers a lot of customization, it might overwhelm users who prefer simplicity over tinkering with settings. The learning curve can be a tad steep for some, but once you get the hang of it, the results are rewarding.

Despite these minor hiccups, the Barista Touch Impress delivers consistently great coffee and provides a satisfying user experience. It's a worthy investment for anyone serious about upping their home coffee game. Just be prepared to spend a bit of time getting to know its features and capabilities. After all, good things come to those who wait—or in this case, brew!

Video by: Sage Appliances

Pros & cons

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Pros

  • Sleek and modern design
  • Intuitive touchscreen interface
  • Quick 3-second heat-up time
  • Automatic microfoam milk texturing
  • Customizable coffee settings

Cons

  • High price point
  • Steep learning curve for beginners
  • Bulky and heavy
  • Plastic components may wear over time

Frequently Asked Questions

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  • The Sage Barista Touch Impress is a high-end espresso machine that simplifies the coffee-making process with features like automatic tamping, a touchscreen interface, and precision brewing technology. It offers step-by-step barista guidance and real-time feedback, making it easy to achieve professional-grade results at home.

  • Yes, the Sage Barista Touch Impress comes with a stainless steel conical burr grinder, allowing you to freshly grind your coffee beans directly into the machine.

  • The Sage Barista Touch Impress allows you to create a variety of specialty drinks, including espresso, lattes, cappuccinos, flat whites, and more. You can also save up to eight customizable drinks.

  • The Impress Puck System simplifies the process of grinding, dosing, and tamping by providing intelligent dosing and assisted tamping with a 7° barista twist. This ensures a precise puck every time, reducing mess and fuss.

  • While the Sage Barista Touch Impress is designed to work best with whole beans, you can also use pre-ground coffee if needed. However, the machine's built-in grinder is a key feature for optimal flavor.

  • Yes, the Sage Barista Touch Impress includes a dedicated hot water spout, which is useful for making teas or long blacks, and for pre-heating cups.

  • Cleaning and maintenance of the Sage Barista Touch Impress are simplified with features like automatic steam wand cleaning and a purge function. Regular descaling and cleaning of the brew group are also recommended.

  • Yes, the Sage Barista Touch Impress is suitable for beginners due to its intuitive touchscreen interface and step-by-step barista guidance. It helps users navigate through the brewing process with ease.

  • The Sage Barista Touch Impress typically comes with a 2-year warranty, providing peace of mind for users investing in this high-quality espresso machine.

  • The Sage Barista Touch Impress does not support a direct water line connection. It uses a removable water reservoir for convenience and easy maintenance.

Important

Before buying any product, check all details of this product on the website or in the store where you purchase it. Aspects and specifications mentioned in the text above might differ.