Breville remains a leading name in home espresso machines, known for blending performance with sleek design. The Breville BES870XL Barista Express stands out for its balance of features and value, making it a top overall choice. For those seeking advanced automation, the Breville BES880BSS Barista Touch offers impressive controls and customizable settings. The main tradeoffs in this category revolve around price versus feature set—more sophisticated models cost more but provide greater convenience. Continue reading for a detailed breakdown of each option to find your ideal match.
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Key Takeaways
- The top-ranked Breville machines balance ease of use with professional-grade espresso quality.
- Higher-end models like the Barista Touch offer touchscreen controls and customization but come at a premium price.
- The Breville Bambino series provides a compact, budget-friendly entry point without sacrificing essential features.
- Build quality and design consistency are strong across all models, but user interface and automation vary significantly.
- Choosing the right Breville depends heavily on your experience level and desired automation features.
| Breville BES881BSS Barista Touch Impress, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for Tech-Savvy Enthusiasts Who Want Customization and Convenience | 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 BES870XL Barista Express Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for Beginners Who Want Quality and Control at an Entry Level | 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 for Small Spaces and Quick Espresso Fixes | Power: 1560 Watts | Voltage: 110-120 Volts | Included Accessories: Portafilter, Milk Jug | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for Effortless, Consistent Café-Quality Drinks | Power: 1560 Watts | Voltage: 110-120 Volts | Width: 7.7 inches | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for Experienced Home Baristas Who Value Speed and Precision | Capacity: 1/2 lb Bean Hopper | Water Tank: 67 oz | Power: 1680 Watts | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES880BSS Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best Overall for Fully Automated Home Barista Experience | 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 Casual Users Who Want Cafe-Quality with Ease | Power: 1680 Watts | Voltage: 110 to 120V | Water Tank Capacity: 67 oz | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES876BSS Barista Express Impress, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for Intermediate Home Baristas Seeking Professional Results | Capacity: 250g bean hopper, 2L water tank | Grind Settings: 25 | Portafilter Size: 54mm | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES870BTR Barista Express Espresso Machine, Black Truffle |  | Best for Versatile Home Baristas Who Want Both Control and Convenience | Capacity: 1/2 lb Bean Hopper | Water Tank: 67 oz | Power: 1600 Watts | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville | Power | Included Accessories | Voltage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Breville BES881BSS Barista Tou | — | — | — |
| Breville BES870XL Barista Expr | 1600 Watts | 54mm Stainless Steel Portafilter, Coffee Scoop, Tamper | — |
| Breville Bambino Espresso Mach | 1560 Watts | Portafilter, Milk Jug | 110-120 Volts |
| Breville Bambino Plus Espresso | 1560 Watts | — | 110-120 Volts |
| Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro | 1680 Watts | Filter Baskets, Razor Dose, Water Filter | — |
| Breville BES880BSS Barista Tou | 1680 Watts | Stainless Steel Portafilter, Filter Baskets, Milk Jug, Water Filter, Trimming Tool, Cleaning Kit, Test Strip | 110 to 120 V |
| Breville BES880BTR Barista Tou | 1680 Watts | Stainless steel portafilter, filter baskets, milk jug, water filter, trimming tool, cleaning kit, test strip | 110 to 120V |
| Breville BES876BSS Barista Exp | — | Stainless steel milk jug, filter baskets, water filter holder, trimming tool, cleaning tablets | — |
| Breville BES870BTR Barista Exp | 1600 Watts | Razor Dose Trimming Tool, Stainless Steel Portafilter, Filter Baskets, Coffee Scoop, Tamper, Milk Jug, Cleaning Tools, Water Filter | 120 Volts |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Breville BES881BSS Barista Touch Impress, Brushed Stainless Steel
This model stands out for its advanced touchscreen interface, allowing users to select from 13 preset drinks and customize up to 6, making it ideal for those who appreciate personalized coffee experiences. Its rapid 3-second heat-up via ThermoJet means less wait time, a step above many traditional machines. The auto milk texturing with alternative milk settings makes crafting lattes and cappuccinos effortless, while the cold brew capabilities expand beverage options. Compared with the Breville BES870XL, this machine offers more automation, but its larger size and complex features could challenge beginners or those with limited space. The premium price reflects its feature set, so casual users might find it overkill. Overall, this machine makes sense for tech-savvy coffee lovers seeking a fully customizable experience at home, willing to invest in convenience and versatility.
Pros:- Intuitive touchscreen with extensive customization options
- Rapid 3-second heat-up with ThermoJet
- Automatic milk texturing with alternative milk settings
- Cold brew and cold espresso functions for iced beverages
Cons:- Complex interface may intimidate new users
- Premium price point may be prohibitive for casual drinkers
- Size could be an issue in tight spaces
Best for: Coffee enthusiasts who want advanced features, customization, and quick operation.
Not ideal for: Small kitchens or users seeking straightforward, budget-friendly options without a learning curve.
- 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“This machine is best suited for tech-savvy users who value customization and quick, versatile coffee making at home.”
Breville BES870XL Barista Express Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
This pick makes the most sense for those starting to explore home espresso, thanks to its built-in conical burr grinder and straightforward controls. Compared to the Breville BES881BSS, it offers a more hands-on experience, requiring manual tamping and adjustment, which can be rewarding but also challenging for newcomers. Its precise PID temperature control ensures consistent extraction, and the powerful steam wand allows microfoam milk preparation—ideal for baristas honing their skills. However, the relatively high price and ongoing maintenance needs, like cleaning the grinder and other components, can add up for casual users. This machine suits those eager to learn espresso craft but less so for those seeking maximum automation or convenience.
Pros:- Built-in conical burr grinder for fresh grounds
- Precise digital temperature control (PID)
- Powerful steam wand for manual microfoam
- Compact design suitable for small spaces
Cons:- Requires some skill and learning for perfect results
- Higher price for an entry-level machine
- Regular cleaning needed to maintain performance
Best for: Beginner home baristas who want to learn manual espresso skills without sacrificing quality.
Not ideal for: Casual users or those seeking a set-it-and-forget-it machine, due to the learning curve involved.
- Capacity:1/2 lb Bean Hopper
- Water Tank:67 oz
- Power:1600 Watts
- Included Accessories:54mm Stainless Steel Portafilter, Coffee Scoop, Tamper
- Temperature Control:Digital PID
- Steam Wand:Powerful manual wand
Our verdict“Best suited for newcomers eager to develop espresso-making skills with quality control at home.”
Breville Bambino Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
This compact machine offers fast heat-up with ThermoJet, making it an attractive option for small kitchens or busy mornings. Its automatic steam wand simplifies milk texturing, perfect for users who prefer a quick, foolproof setup. While it doesn’t have the advanced customization of larger models like the Barista Pro, it still provides precise temperature regulation for consistent extraction, and its simple interface reduces the learning curve. Compared with the Bambino Plus, it lacks some of the latter’s advanced features like the automatic milk frothing options, but costs less and remains highly portable. This machine is ideal for those who want good espresso without complexity, but it may fall short for users seeking more control or larger capacity.
Pros:- Fast heat-up time with ThermoJet technology
- Automatic steam wand for microfoam milk
- Compact, space-saving design
- Precise temperature regulation
Cons:- Limited to basic espresso and milk drinks
- Not designed for heavy or commercial use
- Price may be high relative to features for casual users
Best for: Small-space dwellers or casual drinkers who want fast, reliable espresso with minimal fuss.
Not ideal for: Serious home baristas or those wanting advanced features and customization options.
- Power:1560 Watts
- Voltage:110-120 Volts
- Included Accessories:Portafilter, Milk Jug
- Brew Settings:1 or 2 Cups, Hot Water
- Material:Brushed Stainless Steel
- Warranty:1 Year Limited
Our verdict“Great for small kitchens and quick espresso needs, but less suitable for those wanting advanced control or larger capacity.”
Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
This model streamlines home espresso with its automatic steam wand for microfoam and fast heat-up, making it perfect for those who want quality without fuss. Its precise temperature control and compact size fit well on most countertops, and the 2-year warranty adds peace of mind. Compared to the Bambino, it offers more automation, especially in milk texturing, which simplifies the process for users less confident in their barista skills. However, the absence of detailed specifications like water reservoir capacity or extensive features may leave some wanting more control. This machine suits home users who value consistency and ease over manual mastery.
Pros:- Automatic steam wand for microfoam and latte art
- Fast heat-up with ThermoJet system
- Precise temperature control with PID
- Compact, countertop-friendly size
Cons:- Limited information on durability and capacity
- Higher price without extensive features
- Less suited for manual brewing enthusiasts
Best for: Home baristas seeking a straightforward, reliable espresso machine with automatic milk frothing.
Not ideal for: Experienced enthusiasts who want full manual control or customization options.
- Power:1560 Watts
- Voltage:110-120 Volts
- Width:7.7 inches
- Warranty:2 Years
- Material:Brushed Stainless Steel
Our verdict“Ideal for those prioritizing convenience and consistent quality in a compact package.”
Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Barista Pro combines a built-in grinder with a fast ThermoJet heating system, making it a compelling choice for users who want quick, high-quality espresso. Its user-friendly LCD interface with progress animations provides clear guidance, and the manual microfoam steam wand allows for latte art and milk micro-texturing. Compared to the Breville BES870XL, the Barista Pro offers a more integrated experience, but its larger footprint and complexity may overwhelm absolute beginners. The $1,200+ price reflects its advanced features and speed, making it less ideal for occasional users. This machine is best for those who want professional-level results with minimal delay, and some experience in machine operation.
Pros:- Integrated conical burr grinder for fresh grounds
- Fast ThermoJet heating system for quick operation
- LCD interface with progress indicators
- Manual microfoam steam wand for latte art
Cons:- High price point for advanced features
- Complex for users without prior experience
- Large size may not fit small kitchens
Best for: Home baristas with some experience who want a fast, integrated espresso setup.
Not ideal for: Absolute beginners or users with limited kitchen space who prefer simpler, manual machines.
- Capacity:1/2 lb Bean Hopper
- Water Tank:67 oz
- Power:1680 Watts
- Included Accessories:Filter Baskets, Razor Dose, Water Filter
- Display:LCD with progress animations
- Steam Wand:Manual microfoam
Our verdict“Best suited for experienced home baristas seeking speed, automation, and professional results at home.”
Breville BES880BSS Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Breville BES880BSS Barista Touch stands out for delivering a comprehensive, automated coffee experience that rivals cafe quality. Its touchscreen interface simplifies customization, while the integrated grinder and microfoam milk texturing enable professional results with minimal effort. Compared with the Breville BES876BSS Barista Express Impress, the Touch offers more automation and a more intuitive interface, though it comes at a higher price and limited to 110-120V power, which could be a constraint in some regions. Its fast heat-up with ThermoJet technology reduces wait times, making it ideal for busy mornings. However, the machine’s complexity may require some learning curve for new users, and its premium price makes it less accessible for casual coffee drinkers.
Pros:- Automatic microfoam milk texturing for barista-quality drinks
- Touchscreen interface for easy customization
- Fast heat-up time with ThermoJet system
- Integrated grinder with adjustable settings
Cons:- High price point may be prohibitive for some
- Complex features require learning curve
- Limited to 110-120V power supply
Best for: Home baristas who want a fully automatic, high-tech espresso machine with minimal manual effort
Not ideal for: Budget-conscious buyers or those in regions with 220V power, due to high cost and voltage limitations
- 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
- Warranty:2 Years
Our verdict“This machine is perfect for those seeking a high-end, automated coffee experience at home, willing to invest in convenience and quality.”
Breville BES880BTR Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Black Truffle
The Breville BES880BTR Barista Touch is tailored for home users who desire café-quality espresso with less manual fuss. Its touchscreen simplifies operation, making it easier to master than the semi-automatic Breville BES876BSS. It offers precise temperature control and an auto steam wand that automatically textures milk to your preference, streamlining the process for beginners and casual drinkers. The water tank capacity of 67 oz is adequate for daily use, but frequent drinkers might find it limiting compared to larger-capacity machines. While its pre-programmed settings and user-friendly interface make it accessible, the price remains high for casual users who might not want such advanced features.
Pros:- User-friendly touchscreen interface for intuitive operation
- Precise temperature control for consistent espresso quality
- Integrated conical burr grinder with dose control
- Auto steam wand for customizable milk textures
Cons:- Relatively high price point
- Limited water tank capacity for frequent use
- Complex features may still require some learning
Best for: Coffee enthusiasts who want quality drinks with minimal learning curve and automation
Not ideal for: Those on a tight budget or with limited space, as the machine’s cost and size may be a concern
- Power:1680 Watts
- Voltage:110 to 120V
- 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
- Warranty:2 Years
Our verdict“Ideal for casual coffee lovers seeking high-quality, café-style drinks with minimal effort, despite the higher price.”
Breville BES876BSS Barista Express Impress, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Breville BES876BSS Barista Express Impress combines semi-automatic control with user-friendly features like assisted tamping and a built-in grinder, making it a strong choice for those progressing beyond beginner machines. Its 25 grind settings and PID temperature control allow for tailored brewing, which is a step up from the more basic Bambino models. The machine’s assisted tamping and precise temperature management help produce consistently good espresso, but setup can be daunting for newcomers, and its larger footprint may not suit small kitchens. Compared to the Bambino Plus, which is more compact but less customizable, the Impress balances ease of use with professional results but at a higher price point.
Pros:- Professional-quality espresso with adjustable grind and temperature settings
- Built-in grinder with 25 settings for customization
- Assisted tamping for consistent puck preparation
- Powerful steam wand for microfoam and latte art
Cons:- Complex setup may challenge beginners
- Relatively large size for small kitchens
- Higher price compared to entry-level machines
Best for: Home baristas who want a semi-automatic machine with advanced features but don’t mind some setup complexity
Not ideal for: Casual users or those seeking a simple, plug-and-play machine due to its more involved setup
- 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
Our verdict“Best suited for intermediate users ready to refine their barista skills with a semi-automatic machine that offers professional features.”
Breville BES870BTR Barista Express Espresso Machine, Black Truffle
The Breville BES870BTR Barista Express offers a balanced mix of manual control and automation, making it a versatile choice for home users who want to grind, dose, and extract espresso with a good level of precision. Its built-in conical burr grinder and PID temperature control allow for consistent quality, comparable to the Barista Pro, but with more manual involvement. The machine’s 67 oz water capacity suits daily use but can be limiting for frequent brewing. While it provides adjustable grind size and manual override, setup can be complex, especially for newcomers. Its lower price relative to the Barista Touch makes it appealing for those wanting quality without full automation.
Pros:- Built-in conical burr grinder for fresh coffee
- Precise temperature control with PID
- Steam wand for microfoam and latte art
- Adjustable grind size and manual override
Cons:- Relatively high price for a home machine
- Limited water capacity for frequent brewing
- Complex setup may require some learning
Best for: Home baristas seeking a blend of manual control and automated features at a reasonable price
Not ideal for: Casual drinkers who prefer fully automated, set-and-forget machines due to the setup and learning curve
- Capacity:1/2 lb Bean Hopper
- Water Tank:67 oz
- Power:1600 Watts
- Voltage:120 Volts
- Included Accessories:Razor Dose Trimming Tool, Stainless Steel Portafilter, Filter Baskets, Coffee Scoop, Tamper, Milk Jug, Cleaning Tools, Water Filter
Our verdict“A flexible choice for home baristas who want control over their espresso brewing process without sacrificing convenience, despite a steeper learning curve.”
How We Picked
Our evaluation focused on performance, usability, build quality, and value. We considered how well each machine extracts espresso, ease of operation, and maintenance requirements. Automation features, such as grinder integration and user interface, played a key role in ranking. Price was a factor, but we prioritized models that deliver consistent results and durability. Ultimately, these products reflect a balance of affordability and advanced features to suit different types of home baristas.Factors to Consider When Choosing Breville
Selecting the right Breville machine involves understanding your brewing habits and preferences. It’s important to evaluate features that impact ease of use, customization, and maintenance. Considering your skill level and how much automation you want can help narrow down options. A well-chosen machine should fit seamlessly into your routine without overwhelming you with complexity or sacrificing quality. Here are key factors to keep in mind:Performance and Espresso Quality
The core of any espresso machine is its ability to produce high-quality shots. Look for machines with consistent temperature control, good pressure stability, and a reliable extraction process. Machines with a built-in conical burr grinder or integrated PID temperature control tend to deliver more consistent results, reducing shot variability. Remember, even the most advanced machine won’t compensate for poor tamping or grind settings, so consider your skill level as well.
Automation and Ease of Use
Automation features—such as touchscreen controls, pre-programmed shots, and automatic milk frothing—can save time and reduce learning curves. However, they come at a higher cost and sometimes limit manual control. If you’re a beginner, models like the Bambino series may be better, offering straightforward operation. For experienced users, more manual machines allow greater customization but require more skill and effort.
Build Quality and Design
Durability matters when investing in a long-term appliance. Breville’s stainless steel models are generally well-built and resistant to wear. Aesthetic appeal can also influence your choice, especially if your kitchen design emphasizes style. Consider the size and footprint—compact models fit smaller spaces but may sacrifice some features found in larger units.
Maintenance and Cleaning
Ease of cleaning can greatly impact your daily routine. Machines with removable drip trays, accessible brew heads, and automatic cleaning programs reduce hassle. Regular descaling is necessary for longevity, especially in areas with hard water. Sometimes, investing in a machine with a dedicated cleaning cycle pays off in the long run.
Price and Value
While higher-priced models tend to offer more features and durability, they are not always necessary for casual brewing. Balance your budget against the features you need—if you only brew occasionally, a simpler, less expensive model might suffice. Conversely, if you’re passionate about espresso, investing in a higher-end machine can enhance your experience and results over time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a built-in grinder necessary in a Breville espresso machine?
A built-in grinder can simplify the brewing process by ensuring fresh, consistent grounds with minimal effort, making it appealing for beginners and busy users. However, external grinders often offer more grind size options and finer control, which experienced baristas may prefer. If you value convenience and space-saving design, a machine with an integrated grinder like the Barista Express is advantageous. But for maximum control and potentially better grind quality, pairing a standalone grinder with a more manual machine can yield superior results.
Are higher-end Breville models worth the extra cost?
Higher-end models, such as the Barista Touch, provide advanced automation, touchscreen interfaces, and more precise temperature control, which can significantly enhance your brewing experience. These features are especially beneficial for users who want consistency and are willing to invest time in learning advanced techniques. However, if you prefer a more hands-on approach or brew infrequently, a less expensive model might meet your needs without the added cost. Consider your skill level and how much you value automation before deciding.
Can I use pre-ground coffee with a Breville machine?
Yes, most Breville espresso machines have a dedicated portafilter for pre-ground coffee, allowing you to brew without a grinder. However, the best results typically come from freshly ground beans, so investing in a quality grinder can improve your espresso significantly. Using pre-ground coffee can be convenient, but it limits control over grind size and freshness. If you choose this route, opt for a machine with a good tamping system and adjustable grind settings to maximize flavor.
How often should I descale my Breville espresso machine?
Descaling frequency depends on your water hardness and usage but generally should be done every 2-3 months. Regular descaling prevents mineral buildup, which can impair temperature stability and pressure. Many Breville models include automatic alerts or cleaning cycles that simplify this process. Using filtered or softened water can extend the intervals between descaling and prolong your machine’s lifespan.
Is a compact Breville model suitable for serious espresso enthusiasts?
Compact models like the Bambino are excellent for small spaces and casual brewing but may lack the advanced features that serious enthusiasts desire, such as precise temperature control or pressure profiling. If you’re passionate about espresso and want to experiment with brewing variables, investing in a larger, more manual model like the Barista Pro or Touch provides more control and consistency. However, for everyday use and space constraints, the smaller models deliver good results with less fuss.
Conclusion
For casual coffee lovers or those with limited space, the Breville Bambino series offers simplicity and affordability. Serious enthusiasts seeking professional results should consider the Barista Pro or Barista Touch, which deliver greater control and customization. If you want a balanced combination of automation and quality, the Breville BES870XL remains a strong overall pick. Budget-conscious buyers can find good value in earlier models like the Barista Express without sacrificing core functionality. Ultimately, your choice should align with your skill level, desired features, and how much you’re willing to invest in your home espresso setup.
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