When searching for a Breville espresso machine, you’re looking for a combination of performance, build quality, and user-friendly features. The Breville BES880BSS Barista Touch stands out as the best overall choice, offering a seamless experience with touch controls and precise brewing. The Bambino Plus makes a compelling case for beginners with its compact size and straightforward operation, while the Barista Pro is perfect for those wanting advanced features in a sleek package. The main tradeoffs in this category often involve balancing price, ease of use, and customization options. Keep reading for a full breakdown of the best Breville models and how to choose the right one for your needs.
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Key Takeaways
- The top-ranking models, such as the Barista Touch and Pro, prioritize user experience with intuitive controls and customization, but come at a higher price.
- Compact options like the Bambino Plus offer excellent performance for small kitchens but may lack some advanced features found in larger models.
- Build quality and durability are consistent across Breville, with brushed stainless steel models generally lasting longer and feeling more premium.
- Automation features, such as programmable shots and milk frothing, significantly improve consistency but add to the cost.
- Choosing the right machine depends heavily on user skill level, desired features, and budget, with tradeoffs between simplicity and control.
| Breville BES876BSS Barista Express Impress, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best Overall for Authentic Barista Results | Capacity: 250g bean hopper, 2L water tank | Grind Settings: 25 | Portafilter Size: 54mm | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES880BSS Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for Automated Convenience and Consistency | Power: 1680 Watts | Voltage: 110 to 120 V | Water Tank Capacity: 67 oz | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES880BTR Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Black Truffle |  | Best for User-Friendly Advanced Technology | Power: 1680 Watts | Voltage: 110 to 120V | Water Tank Capacity: 67 oz | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best Compact for Small Spaces | Weight: not specified | Power: 1560 Watts | Voltage: 110-120V | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES870BTR Barista Express Espresso Machine, Black Truffle |  | Best for Versatile Manual Control | Capacity: 1/2 lb bean hopper | Water Tank: 67 oz | Power: 1600 Watts | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES870XL Barista Express Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best Overall for Home Baristas | Capacity: 1/2 lb Bean Hopper | Water Tank: 67 oz | Power: 1600 Watts | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES881BSS Barista Touch Impress, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for Tech-Savvy Coffee Enthusiasts | Material: Brushed Stainless Steel | Heating System: ThermoJet (3 seconds heat-up) | Grinder: Baratza European conical burrs with 30 grind settings | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for Intermediate Home Baristas | Capacity: 1/2 lb Bean Hopper | Water Tank: 67 oz | Power: 1680 Watts | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville Bambino Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best Compact Entry-Level Machine | Power: 1560 Watts | Voltage: 110-120 Volts | Included Accessories: 1 & 2 cup filter baskets, Milk Jug, Portafilter, Tamper, Steam Wand Tip Cleaning Tool, Descaling Powder | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville | Power | Voltage | Included Accessories |
|---|---|---|---|
| Breville BES876BSS Barista Exp | — | — | stainless steel milk jug, filter baskets, water filter holder, trimming tool, cleaning tablets |
| Breville BES880BSS Barista Tou | 1680 Watts | 110 to 120 V | stainless steel portafilter, filter baskets, milk jug, water filter, trimming tool, cleaning kit, test strip |
| Breville BES880BTR Barista Tou | 1680 Watts | 110 to 120V | — |
| Breville Bambino Plus Espresso | 1560 Watts | 110-120V | — |
| Breville BES870BTR Barista Exp | 1600 Watts | 120V | razor dose trimming tool, stainless steel portafilter, filter baskets, coffee scoop, tamper, milk jug, cleaning tools |
| Breville BES870XL Barista Expr | 1600 Watts | 120 Volts | 54mm Stainless Steel Portafilter, Single & Dual Wall Filter Baskets, Coffee Scoop, Tamper, Milk Jug, Cleaning Tools, Water Filter |
| Breville BES881BSS Barista Tou | — | — | — |
| Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro | 1680 Watts | 120 Volts | Single & Dual Wall Filter Baskets, Razor Dose Trimming Tool, Milk Jug, Cleaning Kit, Water Filter |
| Breville Bambino Espresso Mach | 1560 Watts | 110-120 Volts | 1 & 2 cup filter baskets, Milk Jug, Portafilter, Tamper, Steam Wand Tip Cleaning Tool, Descaling Powder |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Breville BES876BSS Barista Express Impress, Brushed Stainless Steel
This model stands out for its blend of professional features and customization options, making it the best choice for serious home baristas. Its built-in conical burr grinder with 25 grind settings and assisted tamping deliver consistent puck preparation, comparable to more expensive commercial machines. The ThermoCoil heating system with PID control ensures precise temperature stability, vital for quality espresso. Compared to the BES880BSS Barista Touch, it offers more manual control, appealing to those who want a hands-on experience. The tradeoff is its larger footprint and more complex setup, which might challenge beginners or those with limited space.
bestFor: Enthusiasts seeking café-quality espresso with custom control.
notIdealFor: Small kitchens or users preferring a fully automatic, plug-and-play experience.
- Professional-quality espresso with customizable settings
- Built-in grinder with 25 grind settings
- Assisted tamping for consistency
- Powerful steam wand for microfoam
- Complex setup for beginners
- Relatively large footprint
- Higher price point
Verdict: Best suited for dedicated home baristas who want hands-on control and professional results despite its size and setup complexity.
- Capacity:250g bean hopper, 2L water tank
- Grind Settings:25
- Portafilter Size:54mm
- Included Accessories:stainless steel milk jug, filter baskets, water filter holder, trimming tool, cleaning tablets
- Heating System:ThermoCoil with PID control
- Dimensions:not specified
Our verdict“Best Overall for Authentic Barista Results — a strong pick in this lineup.”
Breville BES880BSS Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The BES880BSS Barista Touch makes the most sense for users who prioritize ease of use without sacrificing quality. Its touchscreen interface simplifies operation, allowing quick customization of drinks, while its integrated grinder and automatic milk texturing bring barista-level results effortlessly. The ThermoJet system ensures rapid heat-up, making it ideal for busy mornings. Compared to the semi-automatic BES876BSS, it offers more automation, but this comes at a higher price and limited flexibility for those who want more manual control. Its 110-120V compatibility may also be restrictive in some regions.
bestFor: Busy households or beginners who want consistent, quality espresso with minimal fuss.
notIdealFor: Experienced baristas seeking full manual control or users outside 110-120V regions.
- Automatic microfoam milk texturing for barista-quality drinks
- Touchscreen interface for easy customization
- Fast heat-up with ThermoJet
- Integrated grinder with adjustable settings
- High price point
- Complex features may require learning curve
- Limited to 110-120V power supply
Verdict: Perfect for those wanting quick, reliable cafe-style beverages without manual fuss despite the higher cost.
- Power:1680 Watts
- Voltage:110 to 120 V
- Water Tank Capacity:67 oz
- Bean Hopper Capacity:0.5 lb
- Portafilter Size:54mm
- Included Accessories:stainless steel portafilter, filter baskets, milk jug, water filter, trimming tool, cleaning kit, test strip
Our verdict“Best for Automated Convenience and Consistency — a strong pick in this lineup.”
Breville BES880BTR Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Black Truffle
The Black Truffle version offers a similar feature set to the stainless steel model but with a stylish design and slightly different aesthetic. It’s designed for users who want a semi-automatic experience with advanced tech. Its touchscreen, automatic milk wand, and precise temperature control make crafting café-quality drinks straightforward. It’s ideal for those who appreciate digital interfaces but also want manual control options like adjustable grind size and multiple pre-programmed drinks. It outperforms simpler machines like the Bambino Plus, but its high price and learning curve mean it’s best for users willing to explore advanced features.
bestFor: Home baristas who want an intuitive interface combined with professional features.
notIdealFor: Budget-conscious buyers or those new to espresso who prefer simplicity over technology.
- User-friendly touchscreen for ease of use
- Precise temperature control for consistent results
- Auto steam wand for milk customization
- Pre-programmed drinks for quick preparation
- High price point
- Some features may require learning curve
- Limited water capacity for frequent use
Verdict: Best suited for tech-savvy home users who value automation and sleek design over budget concerns.
- Power:1680 Watts
- Voltage:110 to 120V
- Water Tank Capacity:67 oz
- Bean Hopper Capacity:0.5 lb
- Portafilter Size:54mm
- Display:Touchscreen
- Pre-Programmed Settings:5
- Custom Settings:8
Our verdict“Best for User-Friendly Advanced Technology — a strong pick in this lineup.”
Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Bambino Plus is ideal for those with limited counter space who still want café-quality espresso. Its compact dimensions—just 7.7 inches wide—make it perfect for small kitchens. It features an automatic steam wand that produces microfoam effortlessly, rivaling larger machines. The ThermoJet system ensures rapid heating, so you can brew quickly without waiting. Compared to larger, more feature-rich models like the Barista Express, it sacrifices some manual controls but excels in ease of use and speed. The main tradeoff is its limited water capacity, which might require frequent refilling for multiple drinks.
bestFor: Users with small kitchens or who want a straightforward, space-saving option.
notIdealFor: Serious espresso enthusiasts seeking extensive manual control or high-volume use.
- Automatic steam wand for microfoam
- Fast heat-up with ThermoJet
- Compact size fits small kitchens
- Precise temperature control with PID
- Limited water capacity for frequent brewing sessions
- No detailed info on durability
- Price not specified
Verdict: An excellent choice for small-space dwellers who prioritize convenience and speed over extensive manual features.
- Weight:not specified
- Power:1560 Watts
- Voltage:110-120V
- Width:7.7 inches
- Warranty:2 Years
Breville BES870BTR Barista Express Espresso Machine, Black Truffle
The BES870BTR combines a built-in conical burr grinder with manual control over grind size and dosing, making it a standout for users who want to fine-tune every shot. Its PID temperature control guarantees stability, while the steam wand allows for microfoam creation. Compared with the BES876BSS, it offers more manual override options, appealing to those who want a more involved brewing process. However, its smaller 1/2 lb bean hopper and 67 oz water capacity mean fewer shots between refills, which might be inconvenient for high-volume users. The setup can be complex, requiring some familiarity with espresso-making.
bestFor: Enthusiasts who want to customize every aspect of their espresso and milk frothing.
notIdealFor: Those seeking a simple, plug-and-play machine for daily use with high volume.
- Built-in conical burr grinder for fresh coffee
- Precise temperature control with PID
- Steam wand for microfoam
- Manual override for grind and dose
- Relatively high price
- Limited water and bean capacity
- Complex setup for beginners
Verdict: Perfect for experienced home baristas who want detailed control and customization despite smaller capacity and setup complexity.
- Capacity:1/2 lb bean hopper
- Water Tank:67 oz
- Power:1600 Watts
- Voltage:120V
- Included Accessories:razor dose trimming tool, stainless steel portafilter, filter baskets, coffee scoop, tamper, milk jug, cleaning tools
Breville BES870XL Barista Express Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Breville BES870XL Barista Express stands out as the most balanced choice for those wanting café-quality espresso without sacrificing convenience. Its built-in conical burr grinder ensures fresh grounds every time, a feature that sets it apart from models like the Bambino, which relies on pre-ground coffee. The digital PID temperature control provides precise brewing conditions, critical for consistent results, though it introduces a learning curve for newcomers. The powerful steam wand offers manual microfoam milk texturing, making it ideal for latte art enthusiasts. However, the high price and need for regular cleaning are tradeoffs for its professional-level features. This machine is perfect for dedicated home baristas willing to invest time and effort.
Pros:- Built-in conical burr grinder for ultimate freshness
- Precise digital temperature control (PID) for consistent extraction
- Powerful steam wand for manual microfoam milk texturing
- Compact design suitable for home use
Cons:- High price point may be prohibitive for some
- Steep learning curve for beginners
- Requires regular cleaning and maintenance
Best for: Serious coffee lovers seeking professional results and willing to learn
Not ideal for: Casual users or those with limited space who prefer simple, plug-and-play options
- Capacity:1/2 lb Bean Hopper
- Water Tank:67 oz
- Power:1600 Watts
- Voltage:120 Volts
- Included Accessories:54mm Stainless Steel Portafilter, Single & Dual Wall Filter Baskets, Coffee Scoop, Tamper, Milk Jug, Cleaning Tools, Water Filter
Our verdict“This is the best choice for dedicated home baristas who prioritize quality and are ready to handle some complexity.”
Breville BES881BSS Barista Touch Impress, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Breville Barista Touch Impress is designed for users who want quick, customizable, and consistent café-style drinks at home. Its intuitive touchscreen simplifies drink selection and customization, surpassing the manual interface of the Barista Express. The ThermoJet system heats up in just three seconds, offering rapid access to coffee, unlike the longer warm-up required by traditional machines. The auto milk texturing with alternative milk settings caters to a variety of preferences, complementing the cold brew and iced beverage functions. However, its complexity and premium price may be barriers for casual users or those with small kitchens. Compared to the Bambino, which offers simplicity, this model delivers more convenience at a higher cost and size.
Pros:- Touchscreen interface with customizable drink options
- Rapid 3-second heat-up with ThermoJet system
- Automatic milk texturing with alternative milk settings
- Cold brew and cold espresso functions for iced drinks
Cons:- Complex features may require a learning curve
- Premium price may be too high for casual users
- Larger footprint may not suit small kitchens
Best for: Tech-savvy users who want quick, customizable drinks and modern features
Not ideal for: Users new to espresso or those with limited kitchen space who prefer straightforward machines
- Material:Brushed Stainless Steel
- Heating System:ThermoJet (3 seconds heat-up)
- Grinder:Baratza European conical burrs with 30 grind settings
- Touchscreen:Yes
- Milk Frothing:Auto MilQ steam wand with alternative milk settings
- Cold Brew Function:Yes
Our verdict“Ideal for tech-savvy coffee lovers seeking convenience and customization, willing to invest in advanced features.”
Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Breville Barista Pro offers a seamless blend of professional features and user-friendly design, making it a top pick for those looking to elevate their home espresso skills. Its integrated precision conical burr grinder ensures optimal flavor extraction, outperforming the separate grinders used with the Bambino. The quick ThermoJet system heats up in seconds, so users spend less time waiting. The LCD interface provides progress animations, simplifying operation compared to the manual controls of the Express. Its manual microfoam wand allows for latte art but requires some skill, and its larger size may be a drawback for smaller kitchens. Compared with the Express, it offers more automation and quicker startup but at a higher price and footprint.
Pros:- Integrated precision conical burr grinder for flavor
- Fast ThermoJet heating for quick setup
- User-friendly LCD interface with progress animations
- Manual microfoam wand for latte art
Cons:- Relatively high price point
- Complex for complete beginners
- Larger footprint limits small kitchen options
Best for: Home baristas seeking a balance of automation and control for professional-quality espresso
Not ideal for: Beginners who prefer straightforward machines or small kitchens with limited space
- Capacity:1/2 lb Bean Hopper
- Water Tank:67 oz
- Power:1680 Watts
- Voltage:120 Volts
- Included Accessories:Single & Dual Wall Filter Baskets, Razor Dose Trimming Tool, Milk Jug, Cleaning Kit, Water Filter
Our verdict“Perfect for intermediate home baristas wanting a combination of automation and control in a more compact form than larger commercial machines.”
Breville Bambino Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Breville Bambino is well-suited for those with limited space or budget who still want quality espresso. Its rapid ThermoJet heating system allows for quick start-up, comparable to larger models like the Pro. The automatic steam wand simplifies milk texturing, making it easier for beginners to produce microfoam without extensive skill. While it offers fewer customization options and lacks a built-in grinder, its compact size makes it ideal for small kitchens or apartments. Compared to the Barista Express, the Bambino sacrifices some control and grind freshness but compensates with simplicity and speed. This model is a strong choice for casual users or first-time espresso makers who prioritize convenience.
Pros:- Fast heat-up with ThermoJet technology
- Automatic steam wand for microfoam milk
- Compact design fits small spaces
- Precise temperature regulation
Cons:- Limited customization and control
- No built-in grinder, relies on pre-ground coffee
- Price may be high for casual users
Best for: Beginners or those with small kitchens seeking quick, quality espresso without complexity
Not ideal for: Experienced home baristas or those wanting full control over grind and extraction
- Power:1560 Watts
- Voltage:110-120 Volts
- Included Accessories:1 & 2 cup filter baskets, Milk Jug, Portafilter, Tamper, Steam Wand Tip Cleaning Tool, Descaling Powder
- Brew Settings:1 or 2 Cups, Hot Water, Steam
- Material:Brushed Stainless Steel
Our verdict“A strong pick for newcomers and limited-space users seeking quick, quality espresso with minimal fuss.”
How We Picked
This lineup was selected based on a combination of performance, usability, build quality, and value. We evaluated each model’s espresso quality, ease of operation, and maintenance requirements. Additional factors included the machine’s versatility, digital controls, and durability over time. The ranking reflects the best balance of these factors for different types of buyers, from beginners to enthusiasts. Price was also a consideration, ensuring there are options for various budgets while maintaining overall quality and reliability.Factors to Consider When Choosing Breville
When choosing a Breville espresso machine, it’s important to consider several factors that impact your user experience and long-term satisfaction. Understanding your skill level, desired features, and budget can help narrow down the options effectively. In this guide, I’ll cover key considerations that go beyond product specs, helping you make a more informed decision that matches your coffee habits and space constraints.Ease of Use and Automation
Some Breville models come with fully automatic features, like programmable shots and automatic milk frothing, which are ideal for users who want consistent results with minimal effort. Others, especially more affordable or compact options, require manual control and learning curve, making them better suited for enthusiasts willing to tinker. Consider how much time you’re willing to invest in learning the machine versus relying on automation. Mistakes here can lead to frustration or inconsistent results, so choose a model aligned with your comfort level.
Size and Kitchen Space
Breville offers a range of sizes, from compact models like the Bambino Plus to larger, feature-rich machines like the Barista Pro. If space is limited, a smaller machine can still deliver excellent espresso but might lack some advanced features. Conversely, larger models often include bigger water reservoirs and built-in grinders, which enhance convenience but require more counter space. Measure your available area carefully and think about how often you’ll use the machine to decide if portability or capacity matters more.
Build Quality and Materials
Most Breville machines feature durable stainless steel construction, which contributes to longevity and a premium feel. Cheaper or budget models may incorporate plastic components that wear faster or feel less sturdy. Investing in a well-built machine pays off in durability and consistent performance over time. Keep in mind that higher-end models might also include better internal components, which reduce maintenance needs and improve espresso quality.
Customization and Control
Advanced users often look for machines with adjustable brewing parameters, such as grind size, temperature, and shot timing. These features allow for fine-tuning espresso to personal preferences, but they also add complexity. Simpler machines focus on ease of use with preset options, which suit most casual drinkers. Assess how important control is for your experience, balancing the desire for precision with the risk of over-complication.
Price and Long-Term Value
Pricing varies significantly across the lineup, from budget-friendly options to premium models. While a higher price typically correlates with more features, better build quality, and longer lifespan, it’s worth considering whether those extras match your needs. Sometimes, a mid-range machine offers the best value, providing ample control and durability without unnecessary bells and whistles. Be mindful of ongoing costs, like replacement parts or accessories, which can influence overall value.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use pre-ground coffee with a Breville machine?
Yes, many Breville models, including the Barista Express and Bambino Plus, allow the use of pre-ground coffee. However, for optimal freshness and control over extraction, using freshly ground beans is recommended. Pre-ground coffee can be a convenient option if you’re short on time or don’t want to invest in a grinder. Keep in mind that using pre-ground coffee may result in slightly inconsistent shots compared to freshly ground beans, especially if the grind size isn’t optimal.
Are Breville machines easy to clean and maintain?
Most Breville espresso machines are designed with user-friendly maintenance in mind. They typically feature removable drip trays, water reservoirs, and milk frothing components that are easy to clean. Regular descaling and cleaning of the steam wand or milk frother are essential to keep the machine performing well. Higher-end models with more automation may require less frequent cleaning, but all will benefit from routine upkeep to extend their lifespan and maintain espresso quality.
What is the main difference between the Breville Barista Express and Barista Pro?
The primary difference lies in the interface and internal features. The Barista Pro offers a more advanced, digital touchscreen interface, allowing for easier customization and precise control over brewing parameters. It also has a faster heat-up time and upgraded internal components, making it more suited to enthusiasts who want more control. The Barista Express, on the other hand, provides a more traditional, manual experience, which is perfect for beginners or those who prefer a hands-on approach without overly complex controls.
Is it worth investing in a higher-end Breville espresso machine?
Investing in a higher-end Breville machine can be worthwhile if you value advanced features, durability, and consistent espresso quality. These models often include better internal components, more precise temperature control, and automation, which can improve your overall experience. However, they come at a higher price point, so consider whether you’ll use the extra features regularly. For casual home use, mid-range options can offer excellent performance without the premium cost.
Should I choose a machine with a built-in grinder?
Machines with built-in grinders, like some models in the Breville lineup, provide added convenience by combining grinding and brewing in one unit. This setup ensures freshly ground beans for each shot, which enhances flavor. However, integrated grinders can be more expensive and sometimes less powerful than standalone grinders. If you’re serious about coffee and willing to invest, pairing a quality standalone grinder with a basic espresso machine can offer better control and potentially superior results.
Conclusion
For those new to espresso brewing or with limited space, the Bambino Plus offers simplicity and good performance at a reasonable price. Coffee enthusiasts seeking maximum control and customization will find the Barista Pro or Barista Touch to be more fitting. If budget is less of a concern and durability matters most, investing in a higher-end stainless steel model like the Barista Express Impress can pay off over time. Overall, your choice should align with your skill level, space, and how much you want to fine-tune your coffee experience. Whether you prioritize ease or precision, there’s a Breville model suited for your needs.
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