Breville makes some of the snazziest, and most performative entry-level and mid-level espresso machines. That said, there's a few accessories you can pick up to really take that brand new machine to the next level. Starting with these tools also helps you learn good habits and a good workflow!
Walnut Bottomless Portafilter
One accessory that can be tricky for new users but is really worth it is this bottomless portafilter that Breville produces. A bottomless, or "naked" portafilter is just like the one that came with your machine but without the spouts. This allows you to see the shot as it extracts so that you can check for any issues with channeling. This will help you diagnose your shots and develop good puck prep habits - even if it's a little challenging to learn to use at first!
The bonus with this one is the gorgeous walnut handle, which is an upgrade from the plastic most Breville machines ship with.
Force Gauge Tamper
This spring-loaded portafilter is a huge help for new users. This tamper lets you adjust the spring load inside to help you understand the difference in pressures with a tactile bump that engages when you apply the correct force. While you can just use this portafilter forever to always get that perfect puck prep, it'll also help build up your muscle memory in case you are in a situation where you don't have a calibrated tamper like this to work with.
Even better, this tamper is available in 54mm and 58mm sizes, with the larger being compatible with most commercial-style full sized portafilters. Just make sure you pick up the right size for your machine!
Distribution Duo
The Distribution Duo combines two excellent accessories in one. The WDT is a tool with several needles protruding from it that you use to break up clumps in your puck before tamping. This technique will become a quick, second nature bit of puck prep that can really improve your shots by reducing channeling and encouraging even extraction.
The tamper-like base of this tool is actually a wedge distributor, which you'll use to smooth out that puck before the shot. This is key to ensure proper leveling of the shot after using the WDT and before tamping.
This version of these tools is incredibly convenient, and arguably the best distribution option on the market.
Pro Control Frothing Pitcher
If you have aspirations of pouring perfect latte art then the Pro Control frothing pitcher is likely in your future. While the pitchers that come with Breville machines are great for devloping microfoam, a handle-less grip and gentler spout can give you much more control over the pour and flow of milk into your drink. This in turn allows you to create much more elaborate latte art than what you can do with the stock pitcher.
Breville includes that stock pitcher with a handle with its machines because it is much easier to start with, but this upgrade is an excellent pickup once you're ready to up your art game.
Let us know which of these accessories is your favorite in the comments below, and check out our video on this subject to see these accessories in action!