Breville is a brand that always comes up when talking about the best coffee machines. And in the popular category of espresso machines, you have this mainstream debate between Breville Cafe Roma vs Barista Express.
Go ahead and buy the Breville Cafe Roma if you want an entry-level espresso machine that’s downright straightforward to use. This is a great choice for those who want to familiarize themselves with the espresso machine world. Plus, it has a higher 15-bar pressure for extraction, a compact design, and a sturdy build quality.
As for the Breville Barista Express espresso machine, it’s the best for espresso-brewing geeks who want to have it all. This one has all the functions people find in a bean-to-cup espresso machine. If you are interested in practicing your barista skills, you will love this machine.
Breville Cafe Roma vs Barista Express: Comparison Chart
Last update on 2025-04-21 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Breville Cafe Roma vs Barista Express: Differences
After weighing the differences between these two espresso machines, I conclude that the Breville Barista Express wins 4:0 and ties 1 against the Breville Cafe Roma due to its phenomenal coffee flavor and wide range of functions. Read the breakdown below to dive into detailed reviews, and then you will decide which one is the better option for your needs.
Dosing and tamping
The winner: Breville Barista Express
The Breville Barista Express makes it easy for users at all levels with its two types of filter baskets: pressurized and non-pressurized. The pressurized basket is a helpful tool for novice espresso makers. It allows you to pull a satisfactory shot without worrying too much about the grind size and tamping. The result will still have a crema, although it may not be as authentic. It is also an excellent choice for those who want a quick, no-fuss espresso.
However, if you’re aiming to elevate your coffee skills, you’ll want to shift to the non-pressurized basket. This kind of basket requires more control over the brewing process, enabling espresso aficionados to adjust variables such as grind size, dose, and tamping technique for a more sophisticated and flavorful shot.
With the Barista Express, you get two choices: auto-dosing or manual-dosing. For manual dosing, you’ll insert the portafilter into the grinding cradle, then press and hold it down until you have just the right amount of coffee grounds. On the flip side, the auto-dosing feature allows you to simply tap the “Filter Size” button to choose between single or double shots.
Switching gears to the Cafe Roma, this machine doesn’t come with an integrated grinder, so you have to dose and tamp your coffee manually. You do get two filter baskets, one smaller for single shots and a larger one for doubles. The machine also includes a basic plastic scoop and tamper. However, let’s be honest—the plastic tamper can’t really compete with the Barista Express’s removable magnetic tamper in terms of quality.
Heating system and brewing technique
The winner: Breville Barista Express
Heating system
Regarding the heating system, these two machines feature different technologies. The Barista Express features a Thermocoil heating system, whereas the Cafe Roma utilizes a Thermoblock. In case you’re not familiar, Thermoblock is well-known for its fast heating capabilities, while Thermocoil generally provides a more stable and consistent temperature.
According to my experience, the Cafe Roma heats up really fast. However, if you brew coffee right away, the water temperature will only vary between approximately 150 and 170 degrees Fahrenheit, depending on the time the shot is taken. It can’t achieve the ideal temperature range of 195–205 degrees Fahrenheit required for making espresso. Therefore, I recommend leaving the machine on for a couple of minutes so that it is really warmed up.
Meanwhile, the Barista Express utilizes digital temperature control (PID) technology alongside the Thermocoil heating system. This technology helps you ensure that the temperature remains consistently within its optimal range. It gives the machine better temperature control and stability, so the coffee will always be brewed at a standard temperature.
The Barista Express also heats up relatively quickly. However, what we actually need is for the entire coffee machine to be at the ideal temperature for brewing; not only the brew group but also the filter basket and portafilter must be heated. Thus, I suggest having the machine on for about 20 minutes or so before making coffee.
Besides, remember that the Barista Express only uses one heating element, so you can’t brew coffee and steam milk simultaneously. Thus, you should steam milk first and then brew coffee afterward to guarantee your espresso does not get cold.
Brewing technique
When it comes to pumping pressure, both the Breville Barista Express and Cafe Roma operate at a robust 15-bar level. That’s the gold standard if you’re after an espresso with a rich crema layer and a body that’s full of character.
One standout feature of the Barista Express is its pre-infusion functionality. For those not in the know, the machine will initially wet the coffee grounds with a small amount of water and allow them to sit for a short period of time. This process ensures that the grounds are evenly saturated, ultimately leading to a more balanced and flavorful extraction.
As for programmability, the Barista Express comes with a feature that lets you reprogram the default volume of your shots. This means you can adjust the settings to match your preferred espresso strength and cup size. The Cafe Roma, on the other hand, opts for a more manual approach. There isn’t a preset button for water volume, so you’ll need to start and stop the shot manually.
Grinder
The Breville Barista Express is advantageous due to its built-in, conical burr grinder. If you’re a “from bean to cup” kind of person who loves the aroma of freshly ground coffee filling your kitchen, this feature is an absolute game-changer. On the flip side, the Breville Cafe Roma doesn’t come with an in-built grinder, so you’ll need to invest in a separate unit if you want to grind your own beans.
Now, let’s delve into the Barista Express’s grinder. There is a dial located on the right-hand side of the machine that can be used to control the grind size. This dial offers a range of 16 different settings to choose from. The smaller the number, the finer the grind size. The larger the number, the coarser the grind size.
If you’re new to this, you might find it a bit tricky at first to dial in the perfect grind size for your go-to coffee drink. However, don’t fret. Simply begin with the middle setting and adjust accordingly.
In terms of customization, you can also modify the amount of grind, which is a frequently ignored feature that can significantly impact the strength and taste of your espresso. With the ability to experiment with both grind size and amount, you have the ability to personalize each shot.
Milk system
The winner: Breville Barista Express
Both Breville Barista Express and Cafe Roma use steam wands for their milk frothing systems; however, these wands have slightly different designs.
The Breville Barista Express is equipped with a 360° swivel-action steam wand. This is a manual steam wand that gives you full control over the frothing process. If you’re new to using a steam wand, it may be challenging as it requires specific skills. You need to know how to direct air into the milk to create foam, determine the appropriate temperature for the milk, and understand the duration of the frothing process.
Based on my experience, the optimal temperature for milk foam is between 55 and 65 degrees Celsius. If you don’t have a thermometer, you can gauge the temperature by holding the jug in your hand. If the bottom of the jug is too hot to hold, then it’s done. Additionally, avoid filling the milk jug too much, as this will cause the milk foam to spill over later. Instead, I suggest filling the jug to around one-third to one-half full with milk.
Achieving the perfect milk foam for a cappuccino with the Barista Express should not be a challenge for experienced baristas. I personally satisfied with the milk foam quality, too.
As a suggestion for newcomers, Cafe Roma may be a safer option. What I want to emphasize is not only the affordable price but also the user-friendly design. Their steam wand has a “pannarello tip”, which is a finger loop located on the outside, making it easier to control the frothing milk process. However, using the finger looper to create milk foam doesn’t result in the desired consistency.
To have a greater influence on the foam’s consistency, you may choose to detach the “pannarello tip”. However, keep in mind that this will make the steam wand shorter and more difficult to maneuver.
Design and convenience
The winner: Breville Barista Express
Weight and dimensions
When comparing the weight and dimensions of the Breville Barista Express and the Breville Cafe Roma, there are some notable differences that could impact your decision, especially if kitchen space or portability are concerns for you.
The Breville Barista Express is really heavier than its opponent, weighing approximately 23 pounds. It’s because of the durable stainless steel construction, the larger water tank, the built-in grinder, and more. Measuring about 12.5 x 13.8 x 15.9 inches (WxDxH), it requires a decent amount of countertop space, so it may be best suited for those with larger kitchens or a strong dedication to their coffee. Also, it’s not something you’ll want to move around frequently.
In contrast, the Breville Cafe Roma is more lightweight, coming in at approximately 13 pounds. It’s a smaller and more compact machine, generally measuring around 8.5 x 9 x 12 inches (WxDxH). If you ever need to reposition or store it away, this machine is easier to move around. It’s perfect for smaller kitchens and apartments, and you can even take it on vacation.
Build quality
Both the Breville Barista Express and Breville Cafe Roma offer robust build quality and a sleek design for your kitchen.
Starting with the Barista Express, the machine boasts a brushed stainless-steel exterior that is sleek, visually striking, and built to last. Its metal body adds durability, making it ideal for anyone planning to use their machine regularly. Inside, commercial-grade components like a 15-bar pump and a built-in grinder further solidify its robust build.
On the other hand, the Cafe Roma is generally considered a more entry-level machine but still brings quality to the table. Although it’s built with stainless steel, the construction may not feel as premium or heavy-duty as the Barista Express. What’s noticeable is that the Cafe Roma tends to be lighter, which might mean more vibrations during the brewing process, affecting shot consistency.
Water tank design
The Breville Barista Express has a larger water tank located at the back of the machine. Convenient indicator bars on the side will let you know when it’s time to refill. It’s recommended to check the water level before brewing and to use cold, filtered water for a clean and original coffee flavor.
The Cafe Roma has a water level indicator located at the front, but it’s difficult to see the indicator since the plastic is clear and glossy, like the water. If you use the machine frequently, a straightforward solution is to use a pitcher to fill it up. This can actually extend the machine’s lifespan by reducing strain on the rubber gasket and preventing leaks from occurring prematurely.
Cleaning and maintenance
The winner: Breville Barista Express
Let’s discuss the Breville Barista Express, a fantastic espresso machine with a convenient self-cleaning cycle. With just a simple button press, this machine will take care of the dirty work and flush out any old coffee residues. Additionally, the drip tray, water tank, and portafilter are all easily removable for quick cleaning. If you’re a coffee lover who hates the mess, the Barista Express is the perfect choice for you.
As for the Breville Cafe Roma, it’s a bit more traditional, and you’ll need to clean it manually, but it’s not difficult.
There is one final aspect to consider: if you value high-quality water for your coffee, you may prefer the Barista Express as it includes a water filter. The Barista Express may provide a better-tasting and cleaner cup of coffee. Meanwhile, Cafe Roma is not compatible with a water filter. To ensure that the coffee is of good quality, I recommend using filtered water to fill the water tank.
Great for value
Tie
The Breville Barista Express is a high-end bean-to-cup espresso machine that comes with a conical burr grinder, a self-cleaning cycle, a water filter, and customizable options. It is priced on the higher end, but it’s perfect for home baristas or anyone who wants a personalized coffee experience. While it may be expensive, it’s definitely worth the investment for those who appreciate a quality cup of espresso.
The Breville Cafe Roma is affordable without compromising on the necessary features. It has a reliable 15-bar pump, although it doesn’t come with luxurious add-ons such as an automated cleaning cycle or an integrated grinder. If you’re a beginner in making espresso or prefer an easy-to-use machine that still delivers a good shot, the Cafe Roma is a great option.
So, if you are seeking a comprehensive and high-end option and are ready to invest in your coffee-making endeavor, the Barista Express provides excellent value despite its higher price. However, if you are new to the home espresso scene and prefer a more affordable option, the Cafe Roma offers significant value for a lower cost.
In essence, it comes down to what you value more: high-end features and customization or affordability and simplicity. Each machine has its own strengths, so it’s important to choose the one that aligns best with your coffee habits and lifestyle.
Quick Rundown of Breville Barista Express
- The Breville Barista Express delivers third wave specialty coffee at home using the 4 keys formula and is part of the Barista Series that offers all in one espresso machines with integrated grinder to go from beans to espresso in under one minute
- DOSE CONTROL GRINDING: Integrated precision conical burr grinder grinds on demand to deliver the right amount of freshly ground coffee directly into the portafilter for your preferred taste with any roast of bean
- OPTIMAL WATER PRESSURE: Low pressure pre-infusion gradually increases pressure at the start and helps ensure all the flavors are drawn out evenly during the extraction for a balanced tasting cup
- PRECISE ESPRESSO EXTRACTION: Digital temperature control (PID) delivers water at precisely the right temperature, ensuring optimal espresso extraction
- MANUAL MICROFOAM MILK TEXTURING: The powerful steam wand performance allows you to hand texture microfoam milk that enhances flavor and enables creation of latte art
Last update on 2025-04-21 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Quick Rundown of Breville Cafe Roma
- Note: 1)Too coarse a grind, too little coffee, or insufficiently tamping the grounds before brewing can all lead to inadequate pressure for a proper brew. 2)It is important to note that the amount of espresso extracted will vary depending on the grind size and amount and reprogramming may be needed when the size and amount are adjusted
- Stainless-steel Espresso machine with 15-bar thermo block pump
- Dual-wall filter system for excellent crema; froth Enhancer, cup-warming plate
- Accessories: stainless steel frothing pitcher tamping tool/measuring Spoon/cleaning tool
- Removable drip tray and grid; frothing jug included
Last update on 2025-04-21 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
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References:
- Breville Barista Express: https://www.breville.com/us/en/products/espresso/bes870.html
- Breville Cafe Roma: https://www.breville.com/ca/en/products/espresso/esp8.html
I’m Floyd J. Alcock, an experienced barista with a deep love for coffee. I curate personalized coffee experiences, guiding customers through diverse flavor profiles and suggesting ideal brewing methods. My extensive knowledge of espresso machines enables me to recommend the best equipment to match specific needs and budgets. Sharing my expertise and passion with coffee enthusiasts brings immense satisfaction. I look forward to continuing my journey of coffee discovery with every customer I serve, fostering connections over a shared love for this magical beverage.