Breville stands out as a leading brand in the home espresso market, offering a range of machines that prioritize quality and innovation. The Breville Barista Express BES870XL remains the best overall choice for its balance of features and affordability. For those seeking a more advanced experience, the Breville BES880BSS Barista Touch offers touchscreen controls and custom settings, while the Breville Oracle Jet caters to enthusiasts who want semi-automatic control with minimal effort. The main tradeoffs involve balancing price, ease of use, and advanced features—more affordable options often lack some automation, while premium models come at a higher cost. Keep reading for the full breakdown to find the best Breville for your specific needs.
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Key Takeaways
- The top picks differentiate primarily through automation levels, with the Barista Touch and Oracle Jet offering more user-friendly interfaces and advanced features.
- Price points vary significantly, making it essential to identify whether you prioritize value or premium features for your budget.
- Build quality and durability are consistent across Breville models, but more expensive options often include better materials and longevity guarantees.
- Ease of use is a key factor—models with touchscreen controls or pre-programmed settings reduce the learning curve for beginners.
- Size and countertop footprint matter; compact models like the Bambino are ideal for small kitchens, while larger machines suit more dedicated coffee spaces.
| Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best Compact for Small Kitchens | Weight: Not specified | Power: 1560 Watts | Voltage: 110-120 Volts | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville Barista Express BES870BSXL Espresso Machine, Black Sesame |  | Best for Hands-On 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 Automated Features with Professional Results | Capacity: 250g bean hopper, 2L water tank | Grind Settings: 25 | Included Accessories: Portafilter, milk jug, filter baskets, cleaning tools | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for Speed and Precision | Capacity: 1/2 lb Bean Hopper, 67 oz Water Tank | Power: 1680 Watts | Included Accessories: Filter baskets, Razor Dose, Milk Jug, Cleaning Kit | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES880BSS Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best Smart Interface and Customization | Material: Brushed Stainless Steel | Power: 1680 Watts | Water Tank Capacity: 67 oz | 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 BES985BSS Oracle Jet Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for Advanced Home Baristas | Material: Brushed Stainless Steel | Portafilter Size: 58mm | Burrs: Baratza European Precision Burrs | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville Bambino Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best Compact for Small Kitchens | Power: 1560 Watts | Voltage: 110 to 120 Volts | Water Tank Capacity: not specified | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES870BTR Barista Express Espresso Machine, Black Truffle |  | Best for Traditional Manual Control | Capacity: 1/2 lb Bean Hopper, 67 oz Water Tank | Power: 1600 Watts | Voltage: 120 Volts | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES880BTR Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Black Truffle |  | Best for Automated Convenience with Customization | Power: 1680 Watts | Voltage: 110 to 120 V | Water Tank Capacity: 67 oz | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville | Power | Voltage | Included Accessories | Warranty |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Breville Bambino Plus Espresso | 1560 Watts | 110-120 Volts | — | 2 Years |
| Breville Barista Express BES87 | 1600 Watts | 120 Volts | — | — |
| Breville BES876BSS Barista Exp | — | — | Portafilter, milk jug, filter baskets, cleaning tools | — |
| Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro | 1680 Watts | — | Filter baskets, Razor Dose, Milk Jug, Cleaning Kit | — |
| Breville BES880BSS Barista Tou | 1680 Watts | — | — | 2 Years |
| Breville BES870XL Barista Expr | 1600 Watts | 120 Volts | Stainless Steel Portafilter, Filter Baskets, Tamper, Milk Jug, Cleaning Tools | 1 Year Limited |
| Breville BES985BSS Oracle Jet | — | — | — | — |
| Breville Bambino Espresso Mach | 1560 Watts | 110 to 120 Volts | 1 and 2 cup filter baskets, milk jug, portafilter, tamper, steam wand tip cleaning tool, descaling powder | 1 Year Limited |
| Breville BES870BTR Barista Exp | 1600 Watts | 120 Volts | Stainless Steel Portafilter, Filter Baskets, Tamper, Milk Jug, Cleaning Tools | — |
| Breville BES880BTR Barista Tou | 1680 Watts | 110 to 120 V | Stainless steel portafilter, filter baskets, milk jug, water filter, trimming tool, cleaning kit, test strip | 2 Years |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Breville Bambino Plus stands out for its space-saving design, making it ideal for those with limited counter space. Unlike larger machines like the Barista Express, it focuses on quick, quality espresso with automated features such as milk texturing and precise temperature control. While it excels in speed and ease of use, it lacks the customization options and robust build of higher-end models, and its limited capacity might frustrate frequent users. The automatic milk wand and ThermoJet heating system deliver café-quality drinks in a compact footprint, but durability details are sparse, and it’s less versatile for those wanting to experiment with brewing parameters. This pick is perfect for small kitchens and users who prioritize speed and simplicity.
Pros:- Compact size fits easily on small countertops
- Fast heat-up with ThermoJet system
- Automatic milk texturing for microfoam
Cons:- Price not specified, which may be high relative to features
- Limited capacity and fewer customization options
Best for: Apartment dwellers or individuals with limited counter space who want quick, quality espresso without fuss
Not ideal for: Serious enthusiasts seeking extensive customization or durability over time
- Weight:Not specified
- Power:1560 Watts
- Voltage:110-120 Volts
- Width:7.7 inches
- Water Pressure:Pre-infusion system
- Milk Texturing:Automatic steam wand
- Heating System:ThermoJet
- Warranty:2 Years
Our verdict“This machine is ideal for users who value quick, high-quality espresso in a small package and don’t need extensive customization.”
Breville Barista Express BES870BSXL Espresso Machine, Black Sesame
The Breville Barista Express offers a manual experience with its integrated conical burr grinder, making it suitable for those wanting fresh grounds and control over their brew. Compared to the Barista Touch, it requires more setup and skill but rewards with greater flexibility and a more traditional espresso-making process. Its large water tank and bean hopper make it more suitable for regular use, although its size and weight can be a downside for small kitchens. The grinder’s multiple settings and PID temperature control provide high-quality results, but the setup process may be overwhelming for beginners. It’s a solid choice for those willing to learn and invest time to master espresso craft, but less ideal for casual users or limited spaces.
Pros:- Built-in conical burr grinder for fresh grounds
- Precise PID temperature control ensures good extraction
- Powerful steam wand for manual microfoam
Cons:- Complex setup can be intimidating for newcomers
- Large and heavy, takes up significant counter space
Best for: Home baristas who want to learn manual espresso making and enjoy fresh grounds
Not ideal for: Beginners seeking a straightforward, plug-and-play machine or those with limited space
- Capacity:1/2 lb Bean Hopper
- Water Tank:67 oz
- Power:1600 Watts
- Voltage:120 Volts
- Included:Razor Dose Trimming Tool, Stainless Steel Portafilter, Coffee Scoop, Tamper, Milk Jug, Cleaning Tools, Water Filter
Our verdict“This machine is best for enthusiastic users ready to invest time learning manual espresso techniques and have ample space.”
Breville BES876BSS Barista Express Impress, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Barista Express Impress combines automation with professional features, making it suitable for users who want consistent results without extensive manual effort. Its intelligent dosing system and auto-correct dose help streamline the process compared to the manual Express model, while still providing manual microfoam control with its steam wand. Its 25 grind settings and intuitive controls make it versatile for different beans and preferences. However, its complexity and higher price might be overkill for beginners or those with limited space. Compared with the Barista Touch, it’s less user-friendly but offers more control for those willing to learn. It’s a good middle ground for intermediate users who want quality and automation combined.
Pros:- Professional-level espresso and milk texturing
- Intelligent dosing and auto-correct for consistency
- Built-in conical burr grinder with 25 settings
Cons:- Complex setup, may overwhelm beginners
- Higher price point and bulkier design
Best for: Home baristas who want consistent, café-quality espresso with some automation
Not ideal for: Complete beginners or those seeking a simple, minimal setup machine
- Capacity:250g bean hopper, 2L water tank
- Grind Settings:25
- Included Accessories:Portafilter, milk jug, filter baskets, cleaning tools
Our verdict“This machine works best for users seeking a balance of automation and control without sacrificing quality.”
Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Barista Pro emphasizes rapid operation with its ThermoJet system, heating up in seconds, rivaling more automated models like the Barista Touch. Its LCD interface provides clear feedback and control, making it easier for users to fine-tune their drinks. It includes a powerful conical burr grinder and a user-friendly setup, but its high power draw and complexity may challenge complete beginners. Compared to the Bambino Plus, it offers more control and customization, but at the expense of size and initial learning curve. It’s best suited to enthusiasts who want quick, precise results and are comfortable with a more feature-rich machine.
Pros:- Rapid heat-up with ThermoJet system
- Precise temperature control and LCD feedback
- Includes versatile accessories for customization
Cons:- High power consumption
- Complex features may require some learning curve
Best for: Intermediate to advanced users who want fast, professional-quality espresso with control over details
Not ideal for: Casual users or those with limited space or electrical capacity
- Capacity:1/2 lb Bean Hopper, 67 oz Water Tank
- Power:1680 Watts
- Included Accessories:Filter baskets, Razor Dose, Milk Jug, Cleaning Kit
Our verdict“Ideal for users who prioritize speed and precision in a stylish, feature-rich machine.”
Breville BES880BSS Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Barista Touch sets itself apart with its touchscreen interface that simplifies operation and customization, making it accessible for users at all skill levels. Its automatic microfoam milk texturing delivers barista-quality drinks with minimal effort, and its fast ThermoJet heating system supports quick brewing. Unlike traditional semi-automatics, it offers pre-programmed recipes and adjustable settings, making it suitable for those who want both convenience and control. However, its high price and feature set could be overwhelming for beginners seeking a straightforward machine. It’s a solid choice for tech-savvy users who want consistent, customizable drinks without manual fuss, but less ideal for those on a tight budget or new to espresso.
Pros:- Intuitive touchscreen interface
- Automatic microfoam for professional-looking drinks
- Fast heat-up with ThermoJet system
Cons:- High price point
- Features may require some familiarization
Best for: Home users who want easy operation combined with customizable options and automation
Not ideal for: Budget-conscious buyers or complete beginners who prefer simple machines
- Material:Brushed Stainless Steel
- Power:1680 Watts
- Water Tank Capacity:67 oz
- Bean Hopper Capacity:0.5 lbs
- Features:Touchscreen, Adjustable Grind, Programmable Milk Temp & Texture
- Warranty:2 Years
Our verdict“Best suited for users seeking a smart, customizable espresso experience with minimal manual effort.”
Breville BES870XL Barista Express Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
This model offers a well-rounded experience with its built-in conical burr grinder, making it ideal for those who want fresh grounds and a high level of control. Unlike the more automated BES985BSS Oracle Jet, it requires manual tamping and dosing, which means a steeper learning curve but a more hands-on experience. Its adjustable grind size and temperature control help craft quality espresso, yet the machine’s size and maintenance needs might be a hurdle for smaller kitchens or less committed users. The BES870XL strikes a balance between affordability and professional features, making it suitable for enthusiasts willing to invest time in learning the nuances of espresso making.
Pros:- Built-in conical burr grinder for fresh grounds
- Precise temperature control with PID
- Steam wand for microfoam and latte art
- Adjustable grind size and dose
Cons:- Relatively complex for beginners
- Large footprint on countertop
- Requires regular cleaning and maintenance
Best for: Home baristas who enjoy a hands-on approach and want to learn the craft of espresso making
Not ideal for: Casual users seeking a quick, fully automated solution or those with limited space
- Capacity:1/2 lb Bean Hopper
- Water Tank:67 oz
- Power:1600 Watts
- Voltage:120 Volts
- Included Accessories:Stainless Steel Portafilter, Filter Baskets, Tamper, Milk Jug, Cleaning Tools
- Warranty:1 Year Limited
Our verdict“This machine is perfect for dedicated enthusiasts ready to master the art of espresso at home, accepting a steeper learning curve and larger size.”
Breville BES985BSS Oracle Jet Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The BES985BSS Oracle Jet elevates home espresso with automatic grinding, tamping, and milk frothing, making it ideal for those who want professional results with minimal effort. Compared to the semi-automatic BES870XL, it offers a more streamlined experience through its automatic functions, but this convenience comes at a premium price and a larger, somewhat bulkier design. Its ThermoJet heating system ensures rapid readiness, and the customizable temperature and grind settings allow for tailored brewing. While setup may require some patience, it ultimately offers a level of consistency and ease that appeals to serious home baristas who value precision and speed.
Pros:- Automatic grinding, dosing, and tamping
- Precise temperature adjustment with +/- 1 degree
- Fast heat-up with ThermoJet system
- Versatile options including cold brew and milk frothing
Cons:- Complex setup may require some learning curve
- Premium price point
- Bulkier design may take up counter space
Best for: Experienced coffee lovers seeking a semi-automatic with automation features for convenience
Not ideal for: Beginners or budget-conscious buyers who prefer manual control or smaller machines
- Material:Brushed Stainless Steel
- Portafilter Size:58mm
- Burrs:Baratza European Precision Burrs
- Heating System:ThermoJet
- Temperature Adjustment:+/- 1 degree
- Grind Settings:45
- Included Coffee Bags:2 free bags of specialty coffee
Our verdict“This machine makes sense for seasoned enthusiasts who want a quick, consistent, and feature-rich espresso experience without manual fuss.”
Breville Bambino Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Bambino combines quick startup with a small footprint, making it ideal for kitchens with limited space. Its ThermoJet system heats up in just three seconds, providing near-instant access to espresso brewing, unlike larger models like the BES870XL that take longer to warm. The manual steam wand allows for milk microfoam, but it requires some skill to master, which might challenge beginners. Despite limited detailed specs, its compact size and rapid heat-up make it a strong choice for those who want quality espresso without sacrificing counter space, though its water capacity and price may be restrictive for high-volume use.
Pros:- Fast heat-up time with ThermoJet (3 seconds)
- Manual steam wand for milk texturing
- Compact size fits small spaces
- Precise temperature regulation
Cons:- Water tank capacity not specified
- Limited detailed specs in description
- Price not provided
Best for: Small kitchen dwellers or individuals who need a quick, space-efficient espresso machine
Not ideal for: Heavy users or those seeking extensive customization and features
- Power:1560 Watts
- Voltage:110 to 120 Volts
- Water Tank Capacity:not specified
- Brew Group Size:54mm portafilter
- Included Accessories:1 and 2 cup filter baskets, milk jug, portafilter, tamper, steam wand tip cleaning tool, descaling powder
- Warranty:1 Year Limited
Our verdict“This pick suits singles or small kitchens demanding quick, quality espresso with minimal footprint, but not ideal for high-volume use.”
Breville BES870BTR Barista Express Espresso Machine, Black Truffle
The Black Truffle version of the Barista Express keeps the core features of the original, including the built-in conical burr grinder, PID temperature control, and manual microfoam wand, making it a solid choice for those who want hands-on coffee crafting. Compared to the BES985BSS Oracle Jet, it lacks automation but offers a more tactile experience. Its 1/2 lb bean hopper and 67 oz water tank are adequate for home use, though frequent users might find the water capacity limiting. Its high price and learning curve mean it’s best for users who appreciate the process of making espresso and are willing to invest time to perfect it.
Pros:- Built-in conical burr grinder for fresh grounds
- Precise temperature control for consistent extraction
- Manual microfoam steam wand for latte art
- All-in-one design for home baristas
Cons:- Relatively high price point
- Limited water capacity for frequent use
- Requires some learning curve for operation
Best for: Home enthusiasts who value manual control and traditional espresso making
Not ideal for: Casual drinkers or those who prefer automated, set-and-forget machines
- Capacity:1/2 lb Bean Hopper, 67 oz Water Tank
- Power:1600 Watts
- Voltage:120 Volts
- Included Accessories:Stainless Steel Portafilter, Filter Baskets, Tamper, Milk Jug, Cleaning Tools
Our verdict“Ideal for passionate home baristas who want manual control and traditional espresso craftsmanship despite the higher cost and learning curve.”
Breville BES880BTR Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Black Truffle
The Barista Touch offers a fully automated experience with its touchscreen interface, allowing users to craft cafe-quality drinks with minimal fuss. Its automatic microfoam milk texturing makes latte art accessible even to beginners, setting it apart from semi-automatic models like the BES870XL. The fast ThermoJet system ensures quick readiness, and the ability to save personalized profiles suits those who want consistency tailored to their preferences. However, its high price and complex setup may be a barrier for newcomers or those with limited counter space. This machine caters to those who prioritize ease and customization over manual control.
Pros:- Automatic microfoam milk texturing
- Touchscreen interface simplifies brewing
- Fast heat-up with ThermoJet
- Customizable coffee profiles
Cons:- High price point
- Complex setup for beginners
- Large footprint requiring significant space
Best for: Home users who want a full automation experience with personalized profiles
Not ideal for: Traditionalists or budget shoppers who prefer manual brewing and minimal tech features
- Power:1680 Watts
- Voltage:110 to 120 V
- Water Tank Capacity:67 oz
- Bean Hopper Capacity:0.5 lb
- Included Accessories:Stainless steel portafilter, filter baskets, milk jug, water filter, trimming tool, cleaning kit, test strip
- Warranty:2 Years
Our verdict“This machine suits those who want quick, consistent, and customizable coffee at the push of a button, accepting a higher price and larger size.”
How We Picked
To evaluate these Breville options, I focused on performance, usability, build quality, and feature set. I considered how well each machine balances ease of use with customization for different skill levels. Value was a key factor—models that offer high-end features at a reasonable price earned higher rankings. Additionally, I looked at customer feedback for reliability and maintenance needs. The ranking reflects a mix of affordability, feature richness, and overall user experience, ensuring choices cater to a range of coffee enthusiasts from beginners to connoisseurs.Factors to Consider When Choosing Breville
When selecting a Breville espresso machine, it’s important to consider several factors that influence daily usability, long-term value, and overall satisfaction. Understanding these can help avoid common pitfalls like overpaying for features you won’t use or choosing a machine that’s too complex for your skill level.Automation and User Interface
Breville offers models with varying degrees of automation—from manual espresso shots to fully automatic, touch-screen controls. Consider whether you prefer a machine that allows hands-on control or one that simplifies the process with presets. More automation generally means easier operation but often at a higher price and less control over the shot quality. Think about your comfort level with coffee-making and how much time you want to spend dialing in your espresso.
Build Quality and Materials
Durability is key when investing in a coffee machine. Breville’s higher-end models typically feature stainless steel construction, which resists wear and looks sleek on any countertop. Cheaper models or compact options may use plastic parts that wear faster or look less premium. Consider your long-term plans—spending more upfront on a robust model can save money on repairs and replacements later.
Size and Kitchen Compatibility
Espresso machines vary greatly in footprint. Larger models like the Oracle Jet are suited for dedicated coffee spaces, while smaller options like the Bambino fit easily into compact kitchens. Assess your available counter space and whether you need portability or a fixed setup. Remember, larger machines often include more features but can be cumbersome if space is limited.
Features and Customization
Decide what features matter most—steam wands for milk frothing, programmable shot volumes, digital timers, or pre-set recipes. More features enhance versatility but can complicate operation. If you’re a beginner, simpler models with clear controls may serve better, while enthusiasts might prefer machines that allow detailed customization of temperature, grind size, and shot timing.
Price and Long-Term Value
While budget-friendly options like the Bambino provide solid entry points, investing in mid-range or premium models can offer better durability, more consistent results, and advanced features. Consider your budget in relation to how often you’ll use the machine. Sometimes paying more upfront yields better value over years of daily use, especially for features like automatic cleaning or programmable shots that save time and effort.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get professional-quality espresso with a Breville home machine?
Absolutely, many Breville models, especially the higher-end ones like the Oracle Jet and Barista Touch, are capable of producing café-quality espresso. They feature precise temperature control, pressure profiling, and quality burr grinders that help replicate professional results. However, achieving the best possible shot still depends on grind consistency, tamping, and technique, so some practice is needed. These machines bridge the gap between home convenience and professional standards quite effectively.
Are Breville machines easy to maintain and clean?
Most Breville machines are designed with user convenience in mind, offering removable drip trays, water filters, and some automatic cleaning functions. Models with touchscreen controls often include guided cleaning programs that simplify maintenance. That said, regular descaling, cleaning of brew heads, and milk frothing components are necessary to keep the machine performing well. Investing in a machine with automatic cleaning features can save time, especially if used frequently.
Is it worth paying extra for a more advanced Breville model?
For frequent users or those seeking more control and consistency, higher-end models like the Barista Touch or Oracle Jet can be a worthwhile investment. They often include features like programmable shots, integrated grinders, and automatic milk frothing, reducing the learning curve. However, if you only brew occasionally, a simpler, less expensive model may meet your needs without unnecessary complexity or cost. Consider your brewing habits and how much you value convenience versus customization.
Can a beginner easily learn to use a Breville espresso machine?
Yes, many Breville models are designed with beginners in mind, especially those with preset functions and intuitive interfaces such as the Barista Express or Bambino. These machines often include step-by-step guidance or automatic features that help new users achieve decent results quickly. Still, mastering espresso requires some practice with grind size, tamping, and extraction timing, but Breville’s user-friendly controls help smooth the learning process.
How does the size of a Breville machine impact daily use?
The size of your chosen machine affects not only the available counter space but also ease of storage and setup. Compact options like the Bambino are ideal for small kitchens or apartments, offering decent performance in a small footprint. Larger, more feature-rich models like the Barista Touch or Oracle Jet take up more space but provide advanced controls and build quality that justify the size. Consider your kitchen layout and how often you’ll need to move or clean the machine when selecting the right size.
Conclusion
For those seeking the best overall balance of features and value, the Breville Barista Express BES870XL remains the top choice, especially for home baristas who want control without complexity. If you prioritize ease of use and a premium experience, the Breville BES880BSS Barista Touch offers an intuitive touchscreen and customization options. Budget-conscious buyers or beginners will find the Breville Bambino provides reliable performance at a lower price point. For enthusiasts wanting advanced controls with minimal effort, the Breville Oracle Jet stands out as the premium pick. Ultimately, your choice depends on your skill level, space, and how much you’re willing to invest in your coffee setup.
