Choosing between a high-end espresso machine and a versatile countertop oven can be challenging, especially with both Breville models offering impressive features. In this comparison, I’ll break down the key differences and help you decide which is right for your needs.
Whether you’re a coffee enthusiast or a home chef looking for a multifunctional oven, understanding each product’s strengths will guide your purchase decision.
Key Takeaways
| Primary Use | The Barista Pro excels at making high-quality espresso, while the Smart Oven Air is great for baking, roasting, and air frying. |
| Counter Space | The espresso machine has a compact footprint, whereas the Smart Oven Air offers a larger, multifunctional countertop presence. |
| Ease of Use | Both are user-friendly, but the Barista Pro requires some barista skills, while the oven is more about straightforward cooking modes. |
| Features | The Barista Pro features integrated conical burr grinding and precise temperature control; the Smart Oven Air offers multiple cooking functions including convection, air fry, and dehydrate. |
| Price Range | The espresso machine tends to be more expensive upfront; the Smart Oven Air offers a versatile price point for a range of cooking needs. |
Breville BES870BTR Barista Express Espresso Machine, Black Truffle
- Third Wave Specialty Coffee: Brews high-quality coffee at home
- All-in-One Espresso Machine: Includes integrated grinder for convenience
- Fast Bean to Espresso: Brews in under one minute
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At a Glance
Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870BTR
- ✔ Power: 1600W
- ✔ Weight: 23 lbs
- ✔ Dimensions: 13 x 12 x 16 inches
Breville Barista Pro vs Breville Smart Oven Air: Full Breakdown
Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870BTR
The Breville Barista Pro is designed for serious coffee enthusiasts seeking café-quality espresso at home, with an integrated grinder and precise temperature controls. Meanwhile, the Breville Smart Oven Air is a multifunctional oven that handles baking, roasting, and air frying, making it ideal for busy households.
Pros:
- High-quality espresso with integrated grinder
- Fast heat-up and precise temperature control
- Compact and stylish design
- Includes a steam wand for milk frothing
Cons:
- Higher price point
- Requires some barista skill
- Limited to coffee brewing
Best for: Coffee lovers wanting a dedicated espresso machine with professional features
Not ideal for: Someone looking for an all-in-one kitchen appliance without a focus on coffee
Bottom line: Ideal for coffee connoisseurs seeking café-quality espresso at home.
| Feature | Breville Barista Pro | Breville Smart Oven Air |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Function | Espresso brewing with integrated grinder | Versatile cooking including baking, roasting, and air frying |
| Counter Space | Compact, minimal footprint | Larger, multi-use countertop appliance |
| Ease of Use | Requires some barista skill, precise controls | Simple modes, straightforward operation |
| Key Features | Precise temperature, pre-infusion, built-in grinder | Multiple cooking functions, convection, dehydrating |
| Price | Higher upfront cost | Moderate, value-packed |
| Target User | Coffee aficionados | Home cooks and families |
The Verdict
Who should buy which
Hands-On Impressions
In my testing, the Breville Barista Pro was straightforward to set up and quickly delivered professional-quality espresso. I appreciated the integrated grinder and temperature controls, which made brewing satisfying. The Smart Oven Air, on the other hand, impressed me with its versatility; I used it for baking, roasting vegetables, and even air frying, all with consistent results. Both are excellent in their domains, but they serve different needs.
Deeper Analysis
The Barista Pro’s strength lies in its precise control over espresso extraction, making it ideal for coffee enthusiasts who value quality and authenticity. Its integrated grinder ensures freshness with every brew, and the digital temperature control helps achieve consistent results. Conversely, the Smart Oven Air is a true kitchen workhorse, capable of replacing multiple appliances with its various modes, including convection baking and air frying. It’s best suited for those who want a multifunctional oven that can handle most cooking tasks without occupying much space.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can the Breville Barista Pro make milk-based drinks?
Yes, it has a steam wand for frothing milk, making it suitable for lattes, cappuccinos, and other milk-based beverages.
Is the Smart Oven Air good for baking?
Absolutely, it offers precise temperature control and multiple baking modes, including convection and dehydration, making it excellent for baking and roasting.
Which appliance is easier for a beginner to operate?
The Smart Oven Air is generally more straightforward with preset modes, while the Barista Pro requires some familiarity with espresso techniques.
How much space do they occupy?
The Barista Pro has a compact footprint suitable for most countertops, whereas the Smart Oven Air is larger but still fits comfortably in most kitchens.
Find Your Perfect Kitchen Companion
Deciding between the Breville Barista Pro and the Smart Oven Air ultimately depends on your primary needs. If you’re passionate about coffee and want a dedicated espresso machine that can produce café-quality drinks, the Barista Pro is an excellent choice. However, if your goal is a versatile appliance that can handle a wide range of cooking tasks, the Smart Oven Air offers incredible value and performance. Both are premium products from Breville, designed to elevate your home culinary experience.
Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Prices and availability are accurate as of the time of publishing.
