#1: Breville Oracle
- Dual boiler system for simultaneous brewing and steaming
- Automatic grinding, dosing, and tamping
- Precise temperature control for consistent espresso
#2: Breville Oracle Touch

- Touchscreen for easy, customizable drink selection.
- Automated milk texturing for perfect froth.
- Fully automatic espresso process with user-friendly interface.
When I first ventured into the world of espresso machines, I was overwhelmed by the choices. Two models that stood out immediately were the Breville Oracle and the Breville Oracle Touch. These machines promised professional-grade coffee-making at home, but they approached the process very differently. After thorough research and hands-on experience, I chose the Breville Oracle—and I’ve never looked back.
Here’s a detailed perspective from someone who’s personally used the Oracle, and why I believe it’s the better choice.


First Impressions of the Breville Oracle
Unboxing the Breville Oracle felt like unwrapping a gift for a coffee enthusiast. The stainless-steel body has a premium feel, and its robust construction is immediately apparent. Setting it up was straightforward, but what struck me most was how intuitive it was to use despite its advanced features.
The Oracle combines some automation with manual adjustments, and that balance makes it ideal for someone like me who wants convenience without sacrificing creativity.
Getting Started: The Learning Curve
Using the Breville Oracle for the first time was exciting but required a bit of patience. I appreciated that the machine didn’t hold my hand completely—it nudged me to understand the nuances of espresso making.
For instance, I spent time experimenting with grind size and tamp pressure to find the perfect balance for my favorite beans. The machine’s ability to guide yet leave room for personal input was rewarding. Over time, I felt like a skilled barista in my own home.
Consistency in Every Cup
One of the most impressive aspects of the Breville Oracle is its consistency. Every cup of coffee I’ve brewed has had an incredible depth of flavor, and the crema is always on point.
This consistency stems from features like:
- Precise Dose Control: Ensuring just the right amount of coffee for each shot.
- Dual Boiler System: Allowing simultaneous brewing and steaming without compromising temperature.
- Automatic Tamping: While I can adjust the tamp pressure, the automation ensures even results every time.
Milk Frothing: A Game-Changer
Milk frothing is where the Oracle truly shines for me. I enjoy both lattes and cappuccinos, and the machine’s steam wand delivers the perfect microfoam. While the frothing process is automatic, I can tweak the texture to suit my preferences.
This level of control lets me explore latte art (though I’m still learning!) and ensures every drink feels special. The Oracle Touch, by comparison, automates this further, which might appeal to beginners but feels limiting for someone who wants to improve their skills.
Daily Use and Maintenance
Using the Oracle daily has become a seamless part of my routine. It’s fast, efficient, and delivers excellent coffee with minimal effort. That said, the machine does require regular cleaning to maintain peak performance, but it’s nothing too labor-intensive.
I’ve found the cleaning cycle intuitive, and the built-in indicators for tasks like descaling are a helpful touch. For anyone worried about maintenance, the Oracle makes it as easy as possible.
Comparing the Oracle and Oracle Touch
Having tried the Oracle Touch at a friend’s house, I can see its appeal for those who prioritize simplicity. The touchscreen is user-friendly, and the pre-programmed drinks make it almost foolproof.
However, for me, the Oracle offers a richer experience. The tactile controls and manual adjustments give me a deeper connection to the coffee-making process. It’s not just about the drink—it’s about the journey to create it.
Why the Breville Oracle Works for Me
The Breville Oracle fits seamlessly into my lifestyle for several reasons:
- Flexibility: Whether I want a quick espresso or an elaborate cappuccino, it delivers.
- Customization: I can experiment endlessly with grind size, brew time, and milk texture.
- Durability: After months of daily use, the machine feels as sturdy and reliable as ever.
While the Oracle Touch may suit someone who wants one-touch convenience, I prefer the balance of automation and hands-on control that the Oracle provides.
Ideal Use Cases
If you’re considering the Breville Oracle, here are some scenarios where it excels:
- For Coffee Enthusiasts: If you enjoy the process of crafting a great cup of coffee, this machine gives you the tools to experiment and refine your skills.
- For Busy Mornings: The automated features like grinding, dosing, and tamping save time without sacrificing quality.
- For Entertaining Guests: Impress your friends with barista-quality drinks made effortlessly.
What Could Be Improved
No product is perfect, and the Oracle is no exception. While I love its features, here are a couple of areas that could be enhanced:
- Size: The Oracle is quite large, so it may not fit in smaller kitchens.
- Noise: Grinding can be a bit noisy, though this is common with most high-end machines.
These minor drawbacks haven’t detracted from my overall experience, but they’re worth considering depending on your kitchen setup and preferences.


Final Thoughts
Owning the Breville Oracle has elevated my coffee game to a whole new level. It’s more than just a machine—it’s an experience that bridges the gap between professional-grade results and the joy of crafting coffee at home.
If you’re someone who values quality, consistency, and the opportunity to explore your coffee-making potential, the Breville Oracle is an excellent investment. While the Oracle Touch is a great option for convenience, the Oracle’s balance of automation and control makes it the better choice for anyone who loves the art and science of espresso.
For me, the Breville Oracle isn’t just a tool—it’s a partner in my daily coffee ritual. Every cup reminds me why I chose this machine, and I wouldn’t have it any other way.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the main difference between the Breville Oracle and the Breville Oracle Touch?
A: The primary difference lies in automation. The Breville Oracle combines manual control with automation for tasks like grinding, dosing, and tamping, allowing for more customization. The Oracle Touch, on the other hand, features a touchscreen with pre-programmed drink options for a fully automated experience.
Q: Is the Breville Oracle suitable for beginners?
A: Yes, while the Oracle requires some learning initially, it’s beginner-friendly due to its partially automated features. It’s perfect for anyone who wants to learn more about espresso-making and grow their skills over time.
Q: Can I make latte art with the Breville Oracle?
A: Absolutely! The Oracle’s steam wand creates excellent microfoam, which is ideal for latte art. It also allows manual adjustments for milk texture, giving you full control over your creations.
Q: How easy is it to clean and maintain the Breville Oracle?
A: The Oracle is relatively easy to clean and maintain. It includes features like a cleaning cycle and indicators for descaling and maintenance. Regular cleaning of the drip tray, steam wand, and portafilter is recommended to keep it in top condition.
Q: Does the Breville Oracle take up a lot of space?
A: Yes, the Oracle is a larger espresso machine, so it requires ample counter space. If you have a smaller kitchen, you may need to consider its dimensions before purchasing.
Q: How customizable are the brewing options on the Breville Oracle?
A: The Oracle offers significant customization, including grind size, tamp pressure, brew temperature, and milk texture. This makes it ideal for those who enjoy experimenting with their coffee.
Q: Is the Breville Oracle worth the price?
A: If you value high-quality espresso, durability, and the ability to customize your coffee, the Oracle is worth the investment. It delivers professional-grade results and is built to last, offering excellent value for coffee enthusiasts.
Q: Can I use pre-ground coffee with the Breville Oracle?
A: Yes, the Oracle allows you to bypass the grinder and use pre-ground coffee, although the built-in grinder is designed to optimize freshness and flavor.
Q: How does the milk frothing on the Breville Oracle compare to the Oracle Touch?
A: The milk frothing capabilities are similar, with both machines featuring an automatic steam wand. However, the Oracle allows more manual adjustment, providing greater flexibility for milk texture customization.
Q: Who is the Breville Oracle best suited for?
A: The Oracle is perfect for coffee enthusiasts who want a blend of automation and manual control. It’s ideal for those who appreciate the art of coffee-making and want to experiment with their brewing techniques.