The Breville Infuser and the Duo Temp Pro are two standout semi-automatic espresso machines from Breville, but they target different home baristas. The Infuser offers more precise control with its PID temperature system and pressure gauge for enthusiasts, while the Duo Temp Pro provides a more straightforward, budget-friendly experience for beginners who want fantastic espresso without a steep learning curve.
Here’s everything you need to know to decide which of these popular machines is the right choice for your coffee routine.
Breville Duo Temp Pro
The Duo Temp Pro is an approachable semi-automatic espresso machine that delivers the core features needed for excellent espresso at a more accessible price point. It prioritizes simplicity and consistency, making it a favorite for those new to home espresso or anyone who wants cafe-quality taste with minimal fuss.
- What it is: A semi-automatic espresso machine that uses a thermocoil heating system and low-pressure pre-infusion for balanced extraction.
- Key features: Auto-purge function for optimal espresso extraction and steam temperature, 1600W thermocoil heating system, simple dial interface, PID temperature control for steam, dedicated steam wand for frothing.
- Price: Around $600 - $700
- Dimensions: 11" x 10" x 13"
- Materials/Construction: Durable brushed stainless steel housing and portafilter, ensuring longevity and a premium feel.
- Style: Sleek and minimalist with a compact footprint, it fits well into modern kitchens without taking up too much counter space. Very beginner-friendly controls.
- Pros: Excellent value for the price, compact design is great for small kitchens, very easy to set up and use, fast heat-up time, creates consistently great espresso with its pre-infusion feature.
- Cons: Lacks the precise PID temperature control of the Infuser for brewing, offers fewer customization settings, lacks a pressure gauge for feedback.
This espresso machine is ideal for home baristas wanting a reliable, easy-to-use machine that delivers high-quality espresso without an overwhelming number of options or a high price tag.
Shop this product: breville.com/us/products/espresso/bes810bss.html
Breville Infuser
The Breville Infuser is a step up for home baristas who crave more precision and control over their espresso extraction. It incorporates features from Breville's more advanced models, like PID temperature control and a pressure gauge, allowing you to fine-tune your shots for professional-level results at home.
- What it is: A premium semi-automatic espresso machine with advanced controls for serious home enthusiasts.
- Key features: Precise PID temperature control (+/- 2°F), built-in pressure gauge, programmable single and double shot volumes, low-pressure pre-infusion, powerful steam wand, and a digital display.
- Price: Around $700 - $900
- Dimensions: 13.25" x 11.5" x 10.25"
- Materials/Construction: High-quality brushed stainless steel exterior and a robust 1650W thermocoil/thermoblock heating system.
- Style: A polished, slightly more sophisticated aesthetic with a clear digital interface, pressure gauge, and refined control panel, fitting seamlessly into modern kitchens.
- Pros: Superior temperature stability from its PID system, pressure gauge gives valuable feedback for improving your technique, programmable shots for consistency, pre-infusion results in a richer flavor profile.
- Cons: A higher price point than the Duo Temp Pro, slightly larger footprint, and may have more features than a beginner needs or wants to manage.
The Infuser is for the dedicated coffee enthusiast who enjoys deep-diving into the variables of espresso and wants the tools to dial in the perfect shot every single time.
Shop this product: breville.com/us/products/espresso/bes840bss.html
Breville Duo Temp Pro vs. Infuser Comparison
Control & Features
This is where the two machines differ the most. The Duo Temp Pro is about simplicity. Its dial-based operation and automatic functions manage temperature and extraction effectively for consistent results without user intervention. It's a "set it and forget it" machine for someone who wants great espresso, fast.
The Infuser, on the other hand, is built for control. Its PID system maintains an exact brewing temperature, crucial for extracting the full range of flavors from specialty beans. The built-in pressure gauge provides real-time feedback on your shot, helping you adjust your grind and tamp to achieve the ideal extraction. Programmable buttons also allow you to save your preferences for single and double shots, ensuring repeatability.
Dimensions & Scale
Both models are designed for home countertops and are relatively compact. The Duo Temp Pro is slightly narrower and has a smaller footprint, making it the better choice if counter space is extremely limited. The Infuser is a bit wider and deeper to accommodate its additional features, like the pressure gauge, but still fits comfortably in most kitchen layouts.
Materials & Construction
Both machines are built with Breville's signature brushed stainless steel finish, giving them a durable, premium feel. They feel sturdy and are designed for long-term use. Internally, the primary difference lies in the Infuser's more advanced temperature control hardware (the PID system), which contributes to its higher cost and superior performance. While both are well-made, the Infuser’s components are geared towards more granular control and stability.
Price & Value
The Duo Temp Pro typically represents a savings of $100-$200 compared to the Infuser. It offers incredible value by delivering the essential features for quality espresso - like pre-infusion and decent temperature stability - at a very competitive price. It’s an investment that pays off immediately for most users.
The Infuser's higher price tag directly buys you precision. If you are passionate about an espresso hobby and plan on experimenting with different beans, the extra cost is justified by the PID temperature control and pressure gauge. These features provide the consistency and feedback needed to produce bar-level espresso at home. For hobbyists, the Infuser offers better long-term value as your skills progress.
Who Each One Works Best For
The Duo Temp Pro is the clear choice for someone new to the world of semi-automatic espresso machines. Its simple operation removes the guesswork and produces delicious results from day one. It's also fantastic for the user who loves espresso or a latte but isn't interested in tweaking variables - they just want a consistently good cup of coffee with minimal effort.
The Infuser is tailored for the aspiring or experienced home barista. If you get satisfaction from pulling the perfect shot, enjoy the ritual of coffee making, and want to understand how variables like temperature and pressure affect taste, this machine provides the tools you need. It helps you grow your skills rather than just making coffee.
Which One Should You Choose?
Both Breville machines provide excellent coffee experiences, but they cater to very different priorities.
Choose the Breville Duo Temp Pro if:
- You are buying your first semi-automatic espresso machine.
- You prioritize simplicity and ease of use over advanced controls.
- You want consistently great espresso without a long learning curve.
- Your budget is a primary consideration, and you want the best value.
- Kitchen counter space is limited.
Choose the Breville Infuser if:
- You want precise and stable temperature control for perfect extractions.
- You see making espresso as a hobby and enjoy the process of experimenting.
- Visual feedback from a pressure gauge is important for perfecting your technique.
- You plan to use specialty coffee beans and want to get the best flavor out of them.
- You're willing to invest more for prosumer-level features and greater consistency.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main difference between the Duo Temp Pro and Infuser?
The biggest difference is control. The Infuser has a PID system for precise brewing temperature stability and a pressure gauge, which the Duo Temp Pro lacks. These features allow for much greater control over espresso extraction, making the Infuser a choice for more serious hobbyists.
Is the Breville Infuser worth the extra money?
For a coffee enthusiast who wants to experiment with different beans and dial in their shots perfectly, yes. The PID system and pressure gauge provide consistency and feedback that are invaluable for improving your craft. If you just want a simple, high-quality cappuccino in the morning, the Duo Temp Pro offers better value.
Which espresso machine is better for beginners?
The Breville Duo Temp Pro is the better choice for beginners. Its straightforward controls and lower price point make it an accessible entry into the world of home espresso without being intimidating.
Do both machines have a pre-infusion feature?
Yes, both machines use Breville's low-pressure pre-infusion feature. This process gently wets the coffee grounds before full extraction pressure is applied, leading to a more even extraction and a richer, more balanced espresso shot.
What is PID temperature control, and why does it matter?
PID (Proportional-Integral-Derivative) is a digital controller that constantly monitors and adjusts the temperature to keep it extremely stable. For espresso, even a couple of degrees of temperature fluctuation can dramatically alter the taste. The Infuser's PID ensures the water hits your coffee at the exact right temperature for optimal flavor.
Can I make lattes and cappuccinos on these machines?
Absolutely. Both machines come equipped with powerful steam wands that allow you to froth and steam milk for lattes, cappuccinos, flat whites, and other milk-based drinks.
Do these machines come with a built-in grinder?
No, neither the Duo Temp Pro nor the Infuser have a built-in grinder. You will need to purchase a separate, quality burr grinder to get the best results from fresh coffee beans. Breville offers models like the Barista Express that integrate a grinder if that's a priority.
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