Breville has just unveiled its new flagship, the Oracle Dual Boiler espresso machine, which combines the convenience of a super-automatic machine with the precision of a professional machine. With a giant touchscreen, smart grind adjustment, and Wi-Fi connectivity, it's a device that promises to make the perfect cup of coffee without too much effort—or with it, if you prefer.
In a world where a morning cup of coffee is often the only reason we get out of bed, Breville has just dropped a bombshell on the home espresso maker market. Imagine: a machine that can grind, press, and brew your coffee while you're still dreaming about your vacation. But if you're the type who likes to micromanage every detail, this beast lets you play with the settings like a true barista. Ironically, this is a machine that wants to please everyone—and perhaps that's why it risks pleasing no one completely. So let's take a closer look at what this new Oracle Dual Boiler brings to the table (or rather, the kitchen counter).
Coffee on Autopilot: Comfort for Lazy Days
At first glance, the Oracle Dual Boiler is one of the most user-friendly premium appliances Breville has ever made. Its centerpiece is a 5.7-inch high-resolution touchscreen display – the largest the brand has ever put on an espresso machine. This display is like a personal assistant: you choose your drink, set it up and get feedback. It offers a whopping 15 preset recipes, a record for Breville. From classic espresso, latte and cappuccino to iced lattes, shakers and even espresso martinis for those days when the coffee isn’t strong enough.
But that's where the fun begins. The new Auto Dial-In system solves one of the biggest pain points for home baristas: grind size. The machine monitors extraction and automatically adjusts the grind for future cups to achieve a consistent result without your constant intervention. Inside are European Baratza precision grinders with 45 grind settings, giving you immense flexibility whether you're operating in automatic or manual mode.
Milk preparation is not forgotten either. The Auto MilQ nozzle produces silky micro-foam, adapted for oat, almond, soy or cow's milk. Thanks to a separate steam boiler, the system is able to create the texture for latte art with just one push. And if you want to heat the machine before you get out of bed? Thanks to Wi-Fi connectivity and the companion app, you can do it remotely. A small detail that means your coffee is ready before you get to the kitchen. It's like having a personal butler who doesn't require a salary - just electricity.
Space for experimentation: for all those who don't trust automation
While automation is a big selling point, the Oracle Dual Boiler isn't limited to the push of a button. Beneath the surface, it hides components typically found in semi-professional machines. The dual boiler ensures temperature stability, so you can brew espresso and froth milk at the same time. The heated group head adds even more consistency, which is key for consecutive cups without a drop in quality.
For those who want to go deeper, there’s a manual mode that lets you customize almost every step of the process. Pre-infusion, blooming, brewing time, and even temperature can all be set with one-degree precision. You can switch the milk frothing to manual if you prefer to control the texture yourself. The machine comes with a 58mm stainless steel portafilter, the same size as in commercial machines, meaning it’s compatible with standard accessories.
Price and Competition: Is it worth the money?
At €2,699.95 (USD 2,999.95 $), the Oracle Dual Boiler is the most expensive model in Breville's current lineup, putting it €180 (USD 200 $) above the Oracle Touch. This price point puts it in competition with premium semi-automatic and super-automatic machines, where many may prefer to opt for specialized options for sheer convenience or control.
It’s still “affordable” compared to high-end machines from brands like Slayer, but expensive enough to compete with reputable semi-automatics from Rocket Espresso, LELIT, Rancilio, Profitec, ECM, and LUCCA. These competitors are known for their mechanical simplicity and durability, which many enthusiasts see as an advantage over touchscreens and software updates. On the other hand, they require skills that not everyone wants to invest in.
Jura and Saeco’s super-automatic models occupy the other end: great in speed and simplicity, with no need to move portafilters. But they offer little room for customization. Breville aims for the middle ground – accessibility for beginners and a sandbox for enthusiasts. This balance may repel those already entrenched on one side, but it will attract affluent consumers who like to wander between both worlds.
Skep: perfect?!
Breville Oracle Dual Boiler is available now for €2699.95 (USD2999.95 $) through Breville and select retailers like Williams Sonoma. Judging by previous releases, additional retailers will follow in the coming months. Is this the ultimate appliance for your kitchen? If you're looking for versatility with a touch of irony - yes, maybe. But remember: the perfect coffee isn't in the machine, it's in the beans. And maybe a little luck.
