Machine reviews

One machine at a time — what it is, who it suits, and what it gives up.

• Breville Bambino reviewThe smallest way into real espresso — and what the missing grinder costs you.
• Breville Bambino Plus reviewThe Bambino with automatic milk. Whether that $190 buys anything you'll use.
• Breville Barista Express reviewThe category default since 2013, and 27,821 reviews' worth of pattern.
• Breville Barista Pro reviewThermoJet heating and a display. What actually changed from the Express.
• Breville Barista Touch reviewTouchscreen and automatic milk — the most hands-off machine with a portafilter.
• Breville Oracle Touch review$2,300, automatic tamping, and the lowest rating in this entire set.
• Gaggia E24 reviewThe only 58 mm commercial portafilter here, and the only one advertising 9 bar.
• Ninja Luxe Café reviewEspresso, drip and cold brew in one body. Where the compromises land.
• CASABREWS CM5418 review$120 and 4,000 sold a month. What a 20-bar claim actually means.
• Smeg BCC12 reviewBought for the design. An honest look at a machine with only 83 reviews.