Both the De'Longhi La Specialista Touch and Breville Barista Express offer exceptional features and performance in the semi-automatic espresso machine category. The choice between them ultimately depends on user preferences, specific needs, and budget considerations as each model excels in its unique ways.
Semi-Automatic Espresso Machines
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Best for users wanting advanced features and capabilities
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Best for general everyday use and basic needs
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Winner
TIE
De'Longhi vs Breville: Semi-Automatic Espresso Machines Comparison
When it comes to creating the perfect cup of espresso at home, two brands stand out in the semi-automatic espresso machine market: De'Longhi and Breville. In this comparison, we will explore the De'Longhi La Specialista Touch and the Breville Barista Express, examining their features, performance, and usability. By the end, you'll have a clearer picture of which machine aligns best with your coffee-making needs.
Expert Review
RefrdAI Expert Review Team
Both the De'Longhi La Specialista Touch and Breville Barista Express offer exceptional features and performance in the semi-automatic espresso machine category. The choice between them ultimately depends on user preferences, specific needs, and budget considerations as each model excels in its unique ways.
🟢 Recently Updated
Last Updated: November 15, 2025 |
Published: November 15, 2025
📌 This Guide Is For:
Shoppers comparing De'Longhi La Specialista Touch Espresso Machine with Grinder & Milk Frother and Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870XL
Buyers deciding between De'Longhi and Breville brands
Anyone researching semi-automatic espresso machines features before purchase
Our Goal: Serve you choose between De'Longhi La Specialista Touch Espresso Machine with Grinder & Milk Frother and Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870XL with side-by-side analysis
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De'Longhi vs Breville: Semi-Automatic Espresso Machines Comparison: Both the De'Longhi La Specialista Touch and Breville Barista Express offer exceptional features and performance in the semi-automatic espresso machine category. The choice between them ultimately depends on user preferences, specific needs, and budget considerations as each model excels in its unique ways.
Key Takeaways: 1. Winner: TIE 2. De'Longhi La Specialista Touch Espresso Machine with Grinder & Milk Frother: Integrated grinder ensures fresh coffee grounds every time. 3. Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870XL: Compact design that fits well in smaller kitchens.
De'Longhi La Specialista Touch Espresso Machine with Grinder & Milk Frother
De'Longhi
699.95
✓ Pros
Integrated grinder ensures fresh coffee grounds every time.
Touchscreen interface for easy and intuitive operation.
Dual heating system for simultaneous brewing and steaming.
Built-in milk frother for versatile drink options.
Customizable settings for grind size and coffee strength.
✗ Cons
Higher price point may not suit all budgets.
Takes up more counter space due to its larger design.
Learning curve for beginners unfamiliar with espresso machines.
The De'Longhi La Specialista Touch features a robust build with a sleek stainless steel finish, enhancing both durability and aesthetics. Its larger size offers a qualified look but requires more counter space.
The Breville Barista Express also boasts a solid stainless steel construction but has a more compact profile, making it ideal for smaller kitchens. Its design is modern yet straightforward.
Both machines are well built, but the De'Longhi takes the edge for its premium feel and professional appearance.
Performance
The dual heating system in the De'Longhi allows for faster brewing and steaming, producing consistent espresso shots and perfectly frothed milk.
The Barista Express performs admirably, providing quality espresso and allowing for precise control over the brewing process with its advanced pressure gauge.
De'Longhi wins in terms of speed and efficiency, but Breville offers exceptional performance with user control.
Features
The La Specialista Touch includes an integrated grinder, touchscreen controls, and advanced milk frothing capabilities, making it a versatile option for coffee enthusiasts.
The Barista Express features a manual grind adjustment, a built-in steam wand, and a pressure gauge for monitoring extraction, but lacks an integrated grinder.
De'Longhi's features are more advanced, while Breville’s simplicity caters to those who prefer a less complex setup.
Price/Value
Priced at $699.95, the La Specialista Touch offers an all-in-one solution with high-end features, justifying its cost for serious coffee lovers.
With a price of $677.89, the Barista Express is slightly less expensive, offering good value but requiring additional equipment for grinding.
Both machines deliver solid value, but De'Longhi’s higher price reflects its additional features.
User Experience
The touchscreen interface on the De'Longhi enhances the user experience with easy navigation and customizable settings for grind size and strength.
The Barista Express is user-friendly, though some users may require additional time to master its manual controls and frothing techniques.
De'Longhi offers a more intuitive experience, while Breville may require more practice.
In-Depth Analysis
Delving deeper into the design philosophy of both machines, the De'Longhi La Specialista Touch emphasizes a user-centric approach with its intuitive touchscreen controls. This machine showcases how technology can simplify the espresso-making process while retaining high-superior outputs. The layout of the controls is straightforward, appealing to both beginners and experienced users who appreciate an efficient workflow.
In contrast, the Breville Barista Express focuses on the manual process, allowing users to develop their skills in espresso making. This machine is designed for users who enjoy the art of coffee preparation, providing them with the tools to experiment with grind sizes and brewing techniques. The absence of an integrated grinder may seem like a setback, but it encourages users to invest in separate, quality equipment that can enhance their overall experience.
Performance benchmarks reveal that the La Specialista Touch excels in speed thanks to its dual heating system, allowing users to brew and froth simultaneously, reducing wait time. Real-world usage patterns indicate that its ease of operation makes it a popular choice among busy households. Still, some users may find its larger size to be a drawback in smaller kitchens.
The Barista Express, while not as fast as De'Longhi, allows for more nuanced brewing through its pressure gauge, giving users insights into their extraction process. Many users appreciate the ability to fine-tune their espresso shots, although they may need to practice to achieve the perfect froth. Expert insights suggest that both machines provide top-tier results, but the choice ultimately comes down to user preference for automation versus manual skill development.
Which Product Is Right for You?
The De'Longhi La Specialista Touch is ideal for coffee enthusiasts who appreciate having all features in one machine. If you enjoy crafting a variety of espresso drinks, including lattes and cappuccinos, the integrated grinder and milk frother will cater to your needs seamlessly. Additionally, its touchscreen interface is perfect for those who prefer modern technology that simplifies the coffee-making process. This machine suits busy professionals or families looking for convenience without sacrificing quality.
On the other hand, the Breville Barista Express is perfect for users who value control and precision in their espresso-making process. Its stepless grinder allows you to make fine adjustments for your ideal espresso, while its compact design suits smaller kitchens or for those who wish for to preserve counter space. Additionally, this machine is great for individuals who are willing to invest time mastering their skills, especially in frothing milk to perfection. Home baristas, budding coffee aficionados, or anyone looking to explore the world of espresso will find the Barista Express rewarding.
In summary, if you want a comprehensive machine with advanced features and ease of use, choose the De'Longhi La Specialista Touch. If you value hands-on control and a compact design, the Breville Barista Express will likely suit you better.
Value for Money Analysis
Looking at the price-to-performance ratio, both the De'Longhi La Specialista Touch and the Breville Barista Express stand out in their category. De'Longhi, priced slightly higher, offers more integrated features, which many users may find worth the investment, especially for those who desire ease of use and efficiency. The built-in grinder and advanced frothing system further justify the price for those who prefer an all-in-one solution. Meanwhile, the Barista Express provides exceptional value considering its durable build and performance, but users will necessitate to account for the additional cost of a separate grinder if they prefer freshly ground coffee. Both machines feature warranties to protect your investment, but long-term value will depend on user maintenance and the type of espresso experiences you seek.
Buying Guide: What to Consider
When considering a purchase of either machine, key factors include your level of expertise, space availability, and desired features. For beginners or those who prefer convenience, the De'Longhi La Specialista Touch presents itself as an ideal choice, while experienced baristas may opt for the Breville Barista Express for its customizable settings.
Red flags to be cautious of include overly complicated controls that may frustrate less experienced users or machines that require frequent maintenance. It's essential to read user reviews to gauge long-term reliability and ease of use.
Both machines are available at major retailers such as Amazon, Premier Buy, or specialty kitchen appliance stores, typically falling in the $600-$700 range. If you’re considering alternatives, the Rancilio Silvia and Gaggia Classic are worth exploring for their performance and affordability in the semi-automatic segment.
Final Verdict
In conclusion, both the De'Longhi La Specialista Touch and the Breville Barista Express stand out in the semi-automatic espresso machine market. The De'Longhi is the winner for those seeking convenience and advanced features, while the Breville is premier for coffee enthusiasts looking to hone their skills with a more manual approach. Each machine has strengths that serve different user needs, making either a solid choice based on personal preferences.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better for beginners?
The De'Longhi La Specialista Touch is better for beginners due to its intuitive touchscreen controls and integrated grinder, making the espresso-making process much simpler.
Is De'Longhi worth the extra cost over Breville?
If you value an all-in-one solution with built-in features like grinder and frother, the De'Longhi is worth the extra cost; however, Breville offers great value if you prefer manual control.
What's the main difference between these two?
The main difference lies in their design philosophy: De'Longhi emphasizes ease of use with integrated features, while Breville focuses on manual control providing a more hands-on experience.
Can the Breville Barista Express make lattes?
Yes, the Breville Barista Express can make lattes, but you may require to practice frothing milk manually to achieve the desired texture.
Which has better long-term value?
Long-term value can vary; De'Longhi offers more integrated features that may justify its cost over time, while Breville encourages skill development, which can enhance the espresso experience.
Note: This comparison is based on data from manufacturer specifications, verified customer reviews, and independent testing sources. We continuously update our content to reflect the latest product information and user feedback.
Our Testing Methodology
Our comparison methodology is designed to provide you with accurate, unbiased information to make informed purchasing decisions.
1
Product Research & Selection
We analyze product specifications, verified customer reviews, expert opinions, and real-world testing data from trusted sources.
2
Feature Analysis
We evaluate key features, performance metrics, build quality, user experience, and value proposition across multiple criteria.
3
Comparative Evaluation
We conduct side-by-side comparisons using standardized criteria to identify strengths, weaknesses, and optimal use cases.
4
Expert Review
Our editorial team, with 10+ years of product analysis experience, reviews and validates all comparisons for accuracy and fairness.
Data Provenance
Our comparisons are based on:
Manufacturer specifications and product documentation
Verified customer reviews from Amazon and other major retailers
Expert testing data from independent review organizations
Our editorial team brings over 10 years of combined experience in product testing, comparative analysis, and consumer technology journalism.
We specialize in helping consumers make informed decisions through detailed, data-driven product comparisons.
Areas of Expertise:
Product Testing & Evaluation
Comparative Analysis Methodology
Consumer Electronics
Technical Specifications Analysis
Value-for-Money Assessment
Disclosure & Transparency:
As an Amazon Associate, RefrdAI earns from qualifying purchases. This means we may earn a small commission when you purchase through our affiliate links, at no additional cost to you.
Our comparisons remain objective and unbiased—affiliate relationships do not influence our analysis or recommendations.
💬 Common Questions People Ask
❓ Which is better: De'Longhi La Specialista Touch Espresso Machine with Grinder & Milk Frother or Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870XL?
Based on our analysis, both have strengths - see detailed comparison below. Both the De'Longhi La Specialista Touch and Breville Barista Express offer exceptional features and performance in the semi-automatic espresso machine category. The choice between them ultimately depends on user preferences, specific needs, and budget considerations as each model excels in its unique ways.
❓ What is the price difference between De'Longhi La Specialista Touch Espresso Machine with Grinder & Milk Frother and Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870XL?
The De'Longhi La Specialista Touch Espresso Machine with Grinder & Milk Frother costs $699.95, while the Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870XL costs $677.89.
❓ Which has better reviews: De'Longhi La Specialista Touch Espresso Machine with Grinder & Milk Frother or Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870XL?
