#1: Breville Oracle
- Dual boiler system for simultaneous brewing and steaming
- Automatic grinding, dosing, and tamping
- Precise temperature control for consistent espresso
#2: Breville Oracle Touch

- Touchscreen for easy, customizable drink selection.
- Automated milk texturing for perfect froth.
- Fully automatic espresso process with user-friendly interface.
As someone who values the art of crafting the perfect cup of coffee, I have always been drawn to high-quality espresso machines. Over the years, I’ve experimented with various models, but two that stood out are the Breville Oracle and the Oracle Touch. Both machines are exceptional in their own right, but after much use, I’ve grown to favor the Oracle Touch. Here, I’ll share my personal experiences, insights, and reasons for preferring the Oracle Touch over its sibling.


Initial Impressions
The first time I unboxed the Oracle Touch, I was immediately impressed by its modern design and the smooth, sleek interface of the touchscreen. It felt like stepping into the future of home brewing. The Oracle, while solid and well-designed, leaned more on the traditional side with its manual controls. This contrast alone piqued my interest, as I’ve always been drawn to innovations that simplify complex processes without sacrificing quality.
The Learning Curve: A Tale of Two Machines
Using the Oracle initially required a bit of trial and error, especially with its manual controls. Adjusting the grind size and tamping pressure felt rewarding but demanded attention to detail. In comparison, the Oracle Touch reduced this learning curve significantly. Its guided setup and automated features made the entire process intuitive and straightforward. For someone who appreciates convenience without compromising on quality, the Oracle Touch was a game-changer.
Espresso Extraction: Consistency is Key
Both machines excel in delivering consistent espresso shots. The dual boiler system ensures the water temperature remains stable, which is crucial for extracting rich and flavorful espresso. However, I found the Oracle Touch slightly ahead due to its ability to remember my preferred settings. This consistency meant that every morning, I could enjoy a perfectly tailored shot without having to readjust anything.
Customizing Coffee: The Oracle Touch Advantage
One of the standout features of the Oracle Touch is the ability to save personalized drink profiles. As someone who enjoys experimenting with different coffee styles, this feature quickly became indispensable. Whether I wanted a strong, bold espresso for an afternoon pick-me-up or a creamy latte for a relaxing weekend, the Oracle Touch made it effortless to switch between preferences. While the Oracle also allowed for some level of customization, it lacked the same seamless, memory-based system.
Milk Texturing: A Smooth Experience
Milk frothing is an area where both machines shine, but the Oracle Touch takes the lead with its automatic milk texturing capabilities. As a fan of flat whites and lattes, I appreciated how the Oracle Touch allowed me to set the exact temperature and froth level, ensuring consistent microfoam every time. The Oracle, though capable of excellent results, required manual adjustments, which sometimes varied based on my technique.
Daily Use and Workflow
One of the unexpected joys of using the Oracle Touch was how much it simplified my morning routine. I could quickly select my favorite drink, and the machine would handle the rest. The touchscreen interface was responsive and clear, making it easy to navigate even before my first cup of coffee. With the Oracle, mornings required more attention to detail, from adjusting dials to manually timing the extraction. While this process could be satisfying, it felt less practical during busy mornings.
Cleaning and Maintenance: A Practical Perspective
No espresso machine is maintenance-free, but the Oracle Touch makes it as painless as possible. With on-screen cleaning reminders and step-by-step guides, I never felt overwhelmed by the upkeep. The Oracle, while equally durable, required a bit more diligence in remembering when and how to perform maintenance tasks. This difference might seem small, but over time, it added up to a noticeable convenience.
Use Cases: Who Benefits the Most?
In my experience, the Oracle Touch is perfect for anyone who wants a café-quality coffee experience with minimal effort. It’s ideal for families or households with multiple coffee drinkers, as the saved profiles allow everyone to enjoy their favorite beverages without constant adjustments. On the other hand, the Oracle might appeal to those who enjoy the hands-on aspect of espresso-making, where every cup feels like a personal creation.
A Balanced Look at Cost
The price difference between the Oracle and Oracle Touch is certainly a factor to consider. While the Oracle Touch comes with a higher price tag, its features, convenience, and modern interface make it worth the investment for those seeking the ultimate home brewing experience. If budget is a concern, the Oracle still offers excellent value, albeit with a slightly steeper learning curve.
Why I Chose the Oracle Touch
Ultimately, my preference for the Oracle Touch boils down to its balance of automation and quality. It bridges the gap between traditional espresso-making and modern convenience, offering the best of both worlds. The ability to wake up and, with a simple touch, craft a drink that rivals any café has brought a new level of joy to my mornings.


Final Thoughts
Both the Breville Oracle and Oracle Touch are exceptional machines, each catering to a different type of coffee lover. The Oracle is a testament to the art of espresso-making, offering precision and control to those who enjoy the process. Meanwhile, the Oracle Touch redefines what’s possible with home brewing, delivering consistent, high-quality results with ease.
For me, the Oracle Touch has become more than just a coffee machine—it’s an integral part of my daily routine, bringing comfort and indulgence with every cup. Whether you value the hands-on approach of the Oracle or the seamless experience of the Oracle Touch, either machine will elevate your coffee game to new heights.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the main difference between the Breville Oracle and the Oracle Touch?
A: The primary difference is in the user interface and automation. The Oracle Touch features a touchscreen interface with customizable drink options and automated processes, while the Oracle relies on manual controls like buttons and dials for customization.
Q: Is the Oracle Touch worth the higher price compared to the Oracle?
A: If you value convenience, ease of use, and advanced features like personalized drink profiles, the Oracle Touch is worth the investment. However, if you prefer a more hands-on approach and are comfortable with manual adjustments, the Oracle offers excellent value at a lower price.
Q: Can I customize my coffee settings on both machines?
A: Yes, both machines allow for customization, but the Oracle Touch offers a more intuitive experience with its touchscreen and the ability to save multiple personalized drink profiles. The Oracle requires manual adjustments for each use.
Q: Do both machines come with a built-in grinder?
A: Yes, both the Oracle and Oracle Touch are equipped with a built-in conical burr grinder and automatic tamping system to ensure consistent coffee grounds and pressure for optimal espresso extraction.
Q: How difficult is it to clean and maintain these machines?
A: The Oracle Touch simplifies maintenance with on-screen cleaning reminders and guided steps. The Oracle requires manual tracking of cleaning schedules but is still straightforward to maintain with proper care.
Q: Which machine is better for beginners?
A: The Oracle Touch is better suited for beginners due to its automated features and intuitive touchscreen interface. It eliminates much of the guesswork associated with espresso-making, making it easier for new users to achieve consistent results.
Q: Can both machines make milk-based drinks like lattes and cappuccinos?
A: Yes, both machines are capable of creating milk-based drinks. The Oracle Touch offers automatic milk frothing with customizable temperature and texture, while the Oracle provides manual frothing for users who prefer more control.
Q: Are these machines suitable for households with multiple coffee drinkers?
A: The Oracle Touch is particularly suitable for households with multiple coffee drinkers, as it allows users to save personalized drink profiles. The Oracle, while versatile, does not have this feature.
Q: Do I need any additional equipment to use these machines?
A: No additional equipment is required, as both machines come with built-in grinders, tamping systems, and milk frothers. However, having quality coffee beans and fresh milk will enhance your brewing experience.
Q: Which machine is better for advanced coffee enthusiasts?
A: Advanced coffee enthusiasts who enjoy the manual process may prefer the Oracle for its hands-on approach. However, the Oracle Touch still offers advanced features with the convenience of automation, making it a great option for those who appreciate both precision and ease of use.