Our Verdict
Breville Barista Express Impress Wins

Both share 9-bar thermoblock systems. Breville offers precise PID control and assisted puck prep for consistency. Choose Koolatron for its 5-year warranty and simpler, straightforward brewing experience.
Bottom Line: Breville Barista Express Impress is the better choice. Both share 9-bar thermoblock systems.
Who Should Buy Which?
Find the right product for your needs
Buy Breville if...
Breville Barista Express Impress
Ideal for aspiring home baristas who prioritize consistent, high-quality espresso and appreciate workflow assistance. If you value precise control over your brew temperature via PID and seek an easier entry into semi-automatic espresso making with features like automated dosing and assisted tamping, the Breville is for you. Its 25 grind settings and integrated grinder offer excellent customization. While it has a 54mm portafilter, its comprehensive feature set justifies the price for those seeking barista-level results with smart automation.
Buy Koolatron if...
Kenmore Espresso Machine –
This machine is best suited for users seeking a straightforward, reliable integrated espresso solution without complex features. If you prioritize ease of use, a generous 5-year warranty, and are comfortable with manual tamping, the Koolatron offers excellent value. It provides the essentials for decent espresso, including a 9-bar pump and integrated grinder, making it a good fit for daily coffee drinkers who want consistent results without deep customization or the assisted puck prep of the Breville.
Spec Comparison
8 specs compared
| Specification | ![]() | ![]() |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $650 | $650 |
| Rating | 4.3(1.3k) | 4.0(16) |
| Boiler Type | thermoblock | Thermoblock |
| Pump Pressure Bars | 9 | 9 |
| Portafilter Size mm | 54 | — |
| Steam Wand | Yes | Yes |
| Model Number | BES876BSS1BNA1 | — |
| Grinder Included | Yes | Yes |
| Water Reservoir oz | 67.63 | — |
| PID Temperature Control | Yes | — |
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Pros & Cons
Quick overview of strengths and weaknesses
Breville Barista Express
- Integrated grinder offers 25 grind settings
- Automated dosing and assisted tamping for puck prep
- PID ensures stable brew temperature for extraction
- Large 2L water tank and 250g bean hopper
- 54mm portafilter limits puck size and accessories
- Thermocoil system may limit simultaneous steam/brew
- Assisted puck system reduces full manual control
- Requires frequent cleaning of multiple components
Koolatron Kenmore Espresso
- 9 bar pump pressure for espresso
- Integrated coffee bean grinder
- Includes milk frothing steam wand
- User-friendly controls for brewing
- Manual tamping required
- Not fully automatic
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this comparison
Which machine is better for beginners?
The Breville Barista Express Impress is generally better for beginners due to its automated dosing and assisted tamping system, simplifying puck preparation. The Koolatron requires manual tamping, adding a step to the learning curve.
What is the main difference in espresso quality between the two?
Both utilize 9-bar pumps and thermoblock boilers. The Breville features PID temperature control, offering more stable brew temperatures for consistent extraction quality. The Koolatron lacks this specific temperature control.
How do the integrated grinders compare?
The Breville's integrated grinder offers 25 grind settings, providing precise control for different bean types and desired shot profiles. The Koolatron also includes a grinder, but specific adjustment levels are not detailed.
Is the 5-year warranty of the Koolatron a significant advantage?
Yes, a 5-year manufacturer warranty is a substantial advantage for the Koolatron, offering extended peace of mind compared to standard warranties. This can be a key factor for long-term ownership.
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