Breville is a leading name in home coffee and espresso equipment, offering a range of machines designed for both casual drinkers and serious baristas. The Breville Bambino Plus stands out as the best overall choice for its quick heat-up time and user-friendly interface. For those seeking advanced features, the Breville BES880BSS Barista Touch offers a touchscreen experience that elevates home brewing. A key tradeoff in this category is balancing advanced features against ease of use and price. Keep reading for a detailed breakdown of each option to find the best fit for your needs.
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Key Takeaways
- The top picks balance ease of use with advanced brewing capabilities, catering to different experience levels.
- More feature-rich models often come with higher prices and complexity, which can overwhelm beginners.
- Design and build quality vary, with brushed stainless steel models generally offering better durability and aesthetics.
- The inclusion of touchscreen controls is a notable trend, making operations more intuitive for tech-savvy users.
- Price points range widely, but investing in a higher-end model often yields better long-term satisfaction for serious coffee enthusiasts.
| Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best Compact for Small Spaces | Weight: Not specified | Power: 1560 Watts | Voltage: 110-120 Volts | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES870BTR Barista Express Espresso Machine, Black Truffle |  | Best for Hands-On Enthusiasts | Capacity: 1/2 lb Bean Hopper | Water Tank: 67 oz | Power: 1600 Watts | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville Bambino Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best Entry-Level Compact | Power: 1560 Watts | Voltage: 110-120 Volts | Included Accessories: 1 cup and 2 cup filter baskets, milk jug, portafilter, tamper, steam wand tip cleaning tool, descaling powder | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES880BSS Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best Touchscreen for Ease of Use | Material: Brushed Stainless Steel | Power: 1680 Watts | Water Tank Capacity: 67 oz | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for Precise Control and Speed | Capacity: 1/2 lb Bean Hopper | Water Tank: 67 oz | Power: 1680 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 BES876BSS Barista Express Impress, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for Users Seeking Automated Precision | Capacity: 250g bean hopper, 2L water tank | Grind Settings: 25 | Included Accessories: 54mm stainless steel portafilter, 480ml milk jug, filter baskets, water filter holder, trimming tool, cleaning tablets | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES880BTR Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Black Truffle |  | Best for Tech-Savvy Espresso Enthusiasts | Power: 1680 Watts | Voltage: 110 to 120V | Water Tank Capacity: 67 oz | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES881BSS Barista Touch Impress, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for Customization and Step-by-Step Guidance | Material: Brushed Stainless Steel | Heating System: ThermoJet | Grinder: Baratza European conical burrs, 30 grind settings | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES876DBL Barista Express Impress, Damson Blue |  | Best for Style and High-Performance Customization | Capacity: 250g bean hopper | Water Tank: 2L | Grind Settings: 25 | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville | Power | Voltage | Capacity | Included Accessories |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Breville Bambino Plus Espresso | 1560 Watts | 110-120 Volts | — | — |
| Breville BES870BTR Barista Exp | 1600 Watts | 120 Volts | 1/2 lb Bean Hopper | — |
| Breville Bambino Espresso Mach | 1560 Watts | 110-120 Volts | — | 1 cup and 2 cup filter baskets, milk jug, portafilter, tamper, steam wand tip cleaning tool, descaling powder |
| Breville BES880BSS Barista Tou | 1680 Watts | — | — | — |
| Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro | 1680 Watts | — | 1/2 lb Bean Hopper | Single & Dual Wall Filter Baskets, Razor Dose Trimming Tool, Milk Jug, Cleaning Kit, Water Filter |
| Breville BES870XL Barista Expr | 1600 Watts | 120 Volts | 1/2 lb Bean Hopper | — |
| Breville BES876BSS Barista Exp | — | — | 250g bean hopper, 2L water tank | 54mm stainless steel portafilter, 480ml milk jug, filter baskets, water filter holder, trimming tool, cleaning tablets |
| Breville BES880BTR Barista Tou | 1680 Watts | 110 to 120V | — | 54mm stainless steel portafilter, filters, milk jug, water filter, trimming tool, cleaning kit, test strip |
| Breville BES881BSS Barista Tou | — | — | — | — |
| Breville BES876DBL Barista Exp | — | — | 250g bean hopper | Stainless steel milk jug, filter baskets, water filter holder, trimming tool, cleaning tablets |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Breville Bambino Plus stands out for its ultra-compact size, making it ideal for kitchens with limited counter space. Its fast heat-up with ThermoJet technology means you can get espresso quickly without waiting, a feature that sets it apart from larger, slower machines like the Barista Pro. The automatic steam wand simplifies milk texturing, providing consistent microfoam for lattes and cappuccinos, but this ease comes at the expense of manual control and customization. While the price isn’t specified here, its size and quick operation make it perfect for casual home users who want quality without the bulk. However, it lacks detailed weight info and requires registration for promos, which could be minor annoyances.
Pros:- Compact size fits easily on tight countertops
- Fast heat-up with ThermoJet system
- Automatic steam wand ensures consistent microfoam
Cons:- Price not specified, which can make budgeting difficult
- Limited manual control for advanced baristas
Best for: Small kitchens and casual home baristas seeking quick, quality espresso without clutter.
Not ideal for: Enthusiasts wanting full manual control or those with larger budgets for more features.
- Weight:Not specified
- Power:1560 Watts
- Voltage:110-120 Volts
- Width:7.7 inches
- Water Pressure:Pre-infusion system
- Number of Cups:1 or 2
- Warranty:2 Years
Our verdict“This machine is perfect for space-conscious users who prioritize speed and simplicity over extensive customization.”
Breville BES870BTR Barista Express Espresso Machine, Black Truffle
The Barista Express makes a strong case for those who want more control over every step, thanks to its integrated conical burr grinder and manual microfoam wand. Compared to the Bambino Plus, it offers more customization options, including grind size and dose control, but this means a steeper learning curve. Its built-in grinder ensures fresh grounds, which is ideal for espresso purists, but the limited capacity—half a pound of beans—may require frequent refilling for heavy users. The machine’s 1600 Watts of power and 67 oz water tank support consistent brewing, though its larger size and higher price point could deter casual users. It provides a more involved experience, suited for dedicated home baristas willing to learn.
Pros:- Built-in conical burr grinder for fresh grounds
- Precise PID temperature control
- Powerful steam wand for manual milk texturing
Cons:- Relatively high price for in-home equipment
- Learning curve may be steep for beginners
Best for: Home baristas who want to refine their skills and have control over every detail of espresso brewing.
Not ideal for: Casual users or those with limited space and patience for learning a manual process.
- Capacity:1/2 lb Bean Hopper
- Water Tank:67 oz
- Power:1600 Watts
- Voltage:120 Volts
- Included:Razor Dose Trimming Tool, Stainless Steel Portafilter, Filter Baskets, Coffee Scoop, Tamper, Milk Jug, Cleaning Tools, Water Filter
Our verdict“Best suited for committed coffee enthusiasts eager to master manual espresso making at home.”
Breville Bambino Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Bambino offers a straightforward, space-saving solution for those new to home espresso. Its quick ThermoJet heating system means less waiting, and the automatic steam wand simplifies microfoam creation—ideal for beginners who want consistent results without fuss. While similar to the Bambino Plus, this model’s limited features and slightly lower price make it more accessible to casual users, though it might lack the precision controls more experienced enthusiasts desire. The included accessories help with basic setup, but some learning is still required to pull perfect shots. Its size and simplicity make it a practical choice for small kitchens or first-time buyers.
Pros:- Fast heat-up with ThermoJet system
- Automatic steam wand for microfoam
- Compact design suitable for small spaces
Cons:- Limited to home use, not commercial-grade
- May require some practice for perfect extraction
Best for: Beginner home baristas seeking an easy-to-use, compact espresso machine.
Not ideal for: Advanced users wanting extensive customization or manual control over every step.
- Power:1560 Watts
- Voltage:110-120 Volts
- Included Accessories:1 cup and 2 cup filter baskets, milk jug, portafilter, tamper, steam wand tip cleaning tool, descaling powder
- Espresso Settings:1 or 2 Cups, Hot Water, Steam
- Warranty:1 Year Limited
Our verdict“Ideal for newcomers who want quick, reliable espresso without complex features.”
Breville BES880BSS Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Barista Touch elevates home espresso with its touchscreen interface that makes customizing drinks straightforward. Its automatic microfoam milk texturing ensures barista-quality lattes with minimal effort, and the built-in grinder guarantees fresh grounds every time. Compared to the Bambino models, this machine’s larger size and advanced features cater to users who want a more personalized experience, though the higher price and complexity can be intimidating for beginners. The 1680 Watts of power and 67 oz water capacity support consistent performance, but the bulk and learning curve may put off those with limited space or patience. It’s well-suited for coffee lovers who want a semi-automatic machine with smart features.
Pros:- Touchscreen interface simplifies operation
- Automatic microfoam milk texturing
- Integrated grinder with customizable settings
Cons:- High price point may be a barrier
- More complex features require learning
Best for: Home users seeking a semi-automatic with intuitive controls and automatic milk texturing.
Not ideal for: Budget-conscious buyers or those with small kitchens who prefer manual control.
- Material:Brushed Stainless Steel
- Power:1680 Watts
- Water Tank Capacity:67 oz
- Bean Hopper Capacity:0.5 lbs
- Features:Touchscreen display, programmable coffee settings, automatic milk texturing
- Warranty:2 Years Limited
Our verdict“Best for users who want a semi-automatic with smart, automated features for consistent drinks.”
Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Barista Pro combines speed and precision, thanks to its ThermoJet heating system that reaches optimal temperature in just 3 seconds. Its manual microfoam wand offers baristas the ability to craft latte art, while the integrated grinder with adjustable settings ensures fresh, consistent grounds. Compared with the more automated Barista Touch, the Pro’s manual control appeals to those who prefer a hands-on approach, though it may intimidate beginners. Its size and price reflect its professional-grade features, making it more suitable for dedicated espresso lovers than casual drinkers. The LCD interface, while intuitive, adds a layer of complexity for new users, but experienced baristas will appreciate the precision.
Pros:- Fast heat-up with ThermoJet technology
- Manual microfoam wand for latte art
- Adjustable grinder for precise dosing
Cons:- Higher price point
- Complex interface may challenge novices
Best for: Experienced home baristas seeking rapid heat-up and manual control for crafting custom espresso drinks.
Not ideal for: Beginners or users with limited counter space who prefer fully automated systems.
- Capacity:1/2 lb Bean Hopper
- Water Tank:67 oz
- Power:1680 Watts
- Included Accessories:Single & Dual Wall Filter Baskets, Razor Dose Trimming Tool, Milk Jug, Cleaning Kit, Water Filter
Our verdict“Ideal for dedicated coffee lovers who value speed, precision, and manual control at home.”
Breville BES870XL Barista Express Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
This model stands out for its integrated conical burr grinder and precise temperature control, making it ideal for those who want a complete, all-in-one espresso setup without needing separate equipment. Compared with the Breville BES876BSS Barista Express Impress, it offers a more straightforward interface but lacks some advanced features like assisted tamping or customizable presets. Its main tradeoff is the learning curve; beginners might need time to master the manual controls. The 67 oz water tank and half-pound bean hopper suit moderate use, but frequent home baristas may find the capacity limiting. Overall, this pick is perfect for dedicated coffee lovers seeking a compact yet capable espresso machine for daily use.
Pros:- Built-in conical burr grinder for fresh coffee grounds
- Precise temperature regulation (PID) for optimal extraction
- Manual steam wand for microfoam milk texturing
Cons:- Learning curve for those unfamiliar with espresso making
- Relatively high price point compared to entry-level machines
- Limited capacity for frequent large-volume brewing
Best for: Home users who want a versatile, all-in-one espresso machine that balances manual control with quality results.
Not ideal for: Complete beginners or those who prefer a fully automated, fuss-free experience due to the learning curve and manual features.
- Capacity:1/2 lb Bean Hopper
- Water Tank:67 oz
- Power:1600 Watts
- Voltage:120 Volts
- Included:Razor Dose Trimming Tool, 54mm Stainless Steel Portafilter, Filter Baskets, Coffee Scoop, Tamper, Milk Jug, Cleaning Supplies, Water Filter
Our verdict“Ideal for serious home baristas who value manual control and cafe-quality results in a compact form.”
Breville BES876BSS Barista Express Impress, Brushed Stainless Steel
This machine excels with its combination of professional performance and user-friendly features like assisted tamping and auto-dosing, making it suitable for those who want quality without extensive barista skills. Compared to the Breville BES870XL, it offers more automation, which simplifies the brewing process but adds to the complexity and size, requiring dedicated space. The 25 grind settings and included accessories support customization, but the complex setup may challenge complete beginners. Its larger footprint makes it less ideal for small kitchens. This pick makes the most sense for home enthusiasts who desire consistent, café-quality drinks with minimal fuss and are willing to invest in a more feature-rich machine.
Pros:- Auto-correct dose and assisted tamping for consistency
- 25 grind settings for tailored flavor profiles
- Includes free coffee beans with registration
Cons:- Setup complexity can overwhelm beginners
- Bulkier size requires more countertop space
- Higher price point than manual models
Best for: Home users who want professional-quality espresso with automated features to simplify brewing.
Not ideal for: Those new to espresso making or with limited counter space, due to its complexity and size.
- Capacity:250g bean hopper, 2L water tank
- Grind Settings:25
- Included Accessories:54mm stainless steel portafilter, 480ml milk jug, filter baskets, water filter holder, trimming tool, cleaning tablets
- Features:Manual microfoam, intelligent dosing, auto-correct dose, assisted tamping, PID temperature control, hot water function
Our verdict“Best suited for home baristas seeking precision and automation in a semi-automatic machine.”
Breville BES880BTR Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Black Truffle
This model offers automatic microfoam milk texturing and a touchscreen interface, making it ideal for users who want to craft café-quality drinks with minimal effort. It outperforms manual machines like the BES870XL in ease of use, thanks to its fast heat-up and customizable settings. The ThermoJet system allows for rapid readiness, but the high price and complex features might be intimidating for beginners. Limited to 110-120V, it’s best suited for U.S. buyers with compatible outlets. If convenience and speed are priorities, this machine delivers third-wave specialty coffee easily at home, but it may feel overly complex for those who prefer straightforward operation.
Pros:- Automatic microfoam milk texturing for barista-quality drinks
- Touchscreen interface for intuitive operation
- Fast heat-up with ThermoJet system
Cons:- High price point that might be prohibitive
- Features may require a learning curve
- Limited to 110-120V power supply
Best for: Home baristas who prioritize speed, automation, and touchscreen controls for premium coffee experiences.
Not ideal for: Budget-conscious buyers or those who prefer simple, manual espresso machines without digital interfaces.
- Power:1680 Watts
- Voltage:110 to 120V
- Water Tank Capacity:67 oz
- Bean Hopper Capacity:0.5 lbs
- Included Accessories:54mm stainless steel portafilter, filters, milk jug, water filter, trimming tool, cleaning kit, test strip
- Warranty:2 Years
Our verdict“Perfect for tech-savvy users seeking quick, customizable, and high-quality espresso with minimal manual effort.”
Breville BES881BSS Barista Touch Impress, Brushed Stainless Steel
This semi-automatic machine shines with its touchscreen presets, auto steam wand, and customizable milk options, making it ideal for users who want a guided experience with plenty of personalization. Compared with the BES880BTR, it offers more detailed user control and a step-by-step interface but is larger and more complex, which might intimidate beginners. The 13 café presets and adjustable milk settings cater to those who want to fine-tune every drink, yet the learning curve and size mean it’s best for dedicated coffee enthusiasts with ample space. It’s a strong choice for those who want to learn and perfect their barista skills at home but aren’t looking for a fully manual machine.
Pros:- Customizable milk and coffee settings for personalized drinks
- Fast heating with ThermoJet system in just 3 seconds
- Intuitive touchscreen with preset options
Cons:- Complex features may challenge new users
- Higher price point for advanced features
- Large size requires significant countertop space
Best for: Home users eager to develop barista skills with guided controls and extensive customization options.
Not ideal for: Casual coffee drinkers or those with limited space, due to its size and complexity.
- Material:Brushed Stainless Steel
- Heating System:ThermoJet
- Grinder:Baratza European conical burrs, 30 grind settings
- Display:Touchscreen
- Presets:13 café favorites, up to 6 customizable
- Milk Features:Auto MilQ, microfoam, alternative milk settings
Our verdict“Best for dedicated home baristas wanting guided customization and precise control over each brew.”
Breville BES876DBL Barista Express Impress, Damson Blue
This semi-automatic model combines a built-in conical burr grinder with assisted tamping and a stylish damson blue finish, appealing to users who want a blend of aesthetics and professional features. Compared with the standard BES870XL, it offers more adjustable components and a unique color, making it a statement piece for the kitchen. Its 25 grind settings and assisted tamping help ensure consistent extraction, but setup can be complex for beginners. The larger size and higher price point mean it’s best suited for dedicated enthusiasts who value both form and function and want a premium-looking machine for personalized brewing at home.
Pros:- Integrated grinder with 25 adjustable settings for control
- Assisted tamping for consistent espresso pucks
- Powerful steam wand for microfoam and latte art
Cons:- Setup may be challenging for inexperienced users
- Relatively large footprint requiring space
- Higher price compared to basic models
Best for: Coffee lovers seeking a visually striking, high-performance espresso machine with advanced features.
Not ideal for: Beginners or those with limited space, as setup and size might be challenging.
- Capacity:250g bean hopper
- Water Tank:2L
- Grind Settings:25
- Portafilter Size:54mm
- Included Accessories:Stainless steel milk jug, filter baskets, water filter holder, trimming tool, cleaning tablets
Our verdict“Ideal for style-conscious enthusiasts wanting a high-performance, customizable espresso machine at home.”
How We Picked
These products were evaluated based on performance, build quality, usability, and value. We prioritized machines that deliver consistent espresso quality, easy operation, and durability. Additional factors included customization options, maintenance requirements, and user interface. The rankings reflect a balance between affordability and advanced features, aiming to recommend options suitable for different skill levels and budgets. This approach ensures that both casual drinkers and dedicated home baristas find worthy choices within the Breville lineup.Factors to Consider When Choosing Breville
Choosing the right Breville machine depends on several key factors that affect your brewing experience. Understanding these can help you avoid common pitfalls, such as overspending on features you won’t use or buying a machine that’s too complex for your skill level. Here are the main considerations to keep in mind when selecting your ideal Breville coffee or espresso machine.Ease of Use and Learning Curve
Some Breville models, like the Bambino Plus, are designed for quick setup and simple operation, making them perfect for beginners. More advanced machines, such as the Barista Touch, include features like touchscreen controls and customizable settings, which can require a learning curve. Consider how much time you’re willing to invest in mastering your machine versus enjoying your coffee immediately. Investing in a more intuitive model might save frustration, but enthusiasts may prefer the flexibility of complex controls.
Features and Customization
Look for machines that offer the specific features you value most, such as dose control, steam wand flexibility, or pre-programmed recipes. Higher-end models like the Barista Pro provide extensive customization, allowing you to fine-tune brew parameters for optimal results. However, more features also mean more complexity and a higher price. Decide whether you want a straightforward machine or one that enables experimentation and precision.
Build Quality and Durability
Breville machines with stainless steel exteriors tend to last longer and resist wear better than plastic models. They also tend to look more stylish in modern kitchens. While premium materials often come with a higher initial cost, they can offer better long-term value by reducing maintenance and replacement needs. Consider your budget and how important durability is for your daily use.
Size and Kitchen Compatibility
Some models, especially the compact Bambino versions, are ideal for smaller kitchens or limited counter space. Larger, more feature-rich machines require more room and may need dedicated ventilation. Measure your available space carefully before purchasing, and think about how the machine’s size fits into your overall kitchen setup. A compact model might be more convenient but could lack certain advanced features.
Price and Long-Term Value
While budget models can deliver decent espresso, they often lack the durability and customization of pricier options. Conversely, investing in a higher-end machine like the Barista Touch can provide a more refined experience and better longevity. Consider your brewing goals and how much you’re willing to spend upfront. Sometimes, paying more initially results in greater satisfaction and savings over time through durability and better performance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it worth paying extra for a touchscreen espresso machine?
Touchscreen machines like the Barista Touch make operation more intuitive and allow for easier customization, which can enhance your brewing experience. They often include pre-set recipes and step-by-step guides, reducing the learning curve for beginners. However, the added cost and potential for more complex repairs should be weighed against your comfort with technology. If you enjoy experimenting and want a modern interface, a touchscreen model could be a worthwhile investment.
Can I get professional-quality espresso at home with Breville?
Many Breville machines, especially those in the Barista series, are designed to produce espresso that rivals commercial machines in flavor and consistency. Features like precise temperature control, customizable grind settings, and powerful steam wands help replicate professional results. However, achieving barista-level quality also depends on your technique and quality of beans. Practice and patience are key, but these machines provide the tools necessary to make excellent espresso at home.
Are higher-end Breville models more difficult to maintain?
Higher-end models often come with more complex mechanisms, such as advanced steam wands and electronic controls, which can require more careful cleaning and maintenance. Fortunately, many include self-cleaning functions or easy-access parts that simplify upkeep. Regular descaling and cleaning are essential for maintaining performance, regardless of the model. Investing a little extra time in maintenance can extend the life of your machine and preserve espresso quality.
Is a built-in grinder necessary for good espresso?
While built-in grinders like those in the Barista Express models offer convenience, they’re not strictly necessary for good espresso. External grinders can often provide better grind consistency and more control over settings, leading to improved results. If you’re serious about coffee and willing to invest in a quality grinder separately, you might prefer a machine without a built-in grinder but with a dedicated port for a separate device. For casual users, integrated grinders offer simplicity and space-saving benefits.
What is the best Breville machine for someone new to espresso?
For beginners, the Breville Bambino Plus is an excellent choice thanks to its simple interface, quick heat-up time, and consistent results. It provides enough features to learn the basics without overwhelming new users with complex controls. As you gain experience, you can consider upgrading to more advanced models. Starting with a straightforward machine helps build confidence and familiarity with espresso brewing before exploring more customizable options.
Conclusion
For those seeking the best overall experience, the Breville Bambino Plus offers excellent performance for its price and ease of use, making it ideal for casual users. Coffee enthusiasts willing to invest more will find the Breville BES880BSS Barista Touch worth the extra features and touchscreen controls. The Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro strikes a balance between professional features and usability for serious home baristas. Beginners should consider starting with the Bambino Plus, while those with limited space may prefer compact options like the Bambino. For dedicated espresso lovers, premium models like the Barista Touch or the Impress series offer extensive customization and advanced features that justify their higher price tags.Halloween Picks
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