Breville has become a leading name in home espresso with a wide range of machines tailored for different needs. The Breville Barista Express BES870XL stands out as the best overall for its perfect balance of performance and affordability. For those seeking advanced features, the Breville Oracle Jet BES980BSS offers premium automation. Meanwhile, the Breville Bambino Plus is ideal for newcomers who want quality without complexity. Choosing the right Breville depends on your brewing experience, budget, and desired features. Continue reading for a detailed breakdown of each model and how to pick the best one for you.
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Key Takeaways
- The top-ranked models combine ease of use with high-quality espresso extraction.
- Higher-end machines like the Oracle Jet offer more automation but come at a premium price.
- Entry-level options like the Bambino Plus excel for beginners but lack advanced customization.
- Build quality and consistency are key factors that differentiate the best models.
- Tradeoffs often involve balancing user-friendliness against feature depth and price.
| 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 BES878BSS Barista Pro Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for Versatility and Speed | Capacity: 1/2 lb Bean Hopper, 67 oz Water Tank | Power: 1680 Watts | Voltage: 120 Volts | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville Barista Express BES870BSXL Espresso Machine, Black Sesame |  | Best for Hands-On Barista Experience | 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 Espresso Maker | Power: 1560 Watts | Voltage: 110-120 Volts | Water Tank Capacity: Not specified | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES876BSS Barista Express Impress, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for Consistency and Convenience | Capacity: 250g bean hopper, 2L water tank | Grind Settings: 25 | Included Accessories: Portafilter, milk jug, cleaning tablets | 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 BES880BTR Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Black Truffle |  | Best for Convenience and Customization | Power: 1680 Watts | Voltage: 110 to 120 V | Water Tank Capacity: 67 oz | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES880BSS Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for Ease of Use and Automatic Features | Material: Brushed Stainless Steel | Power: 1680 Watts | Voltage: 110-120V | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES985BSS Oracle Jet Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for Professional-Grade Automation | Material: Brushed Stainless Steel | Portafilter Size: 58mm | Burrs: Baratza European Precision Burrs | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES870BTR Barista Express Espresso Machine, Black Truffle |  | Best for Traditional Semi-Automatic Control | Capacity: 1/2 lb Bean Hopper | Water Tank: 67 oz | Power: 1600 Watts | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville | Power | Voltage | Included Accessories | Capacity |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Breville Bambino Plus Espresso | 1560 Watts | 110-120 Volts | — | — |
| Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro | 1680 Watts | 120 Volts | Filter baskets, milk jug, cleaning kit | 1/2 lb Bean Hopper, 67 oz Water Tank |
| Breville Barista Express BES87 | 1600 Watts | 120 Volts | — | 1/2 lb Bean Hopper |
| Breville Bambino Espresso Mach | 1560 Watts | 110-120 Volts | Filter baskets, milk jug, tamping tools | — |
| Breville BES876BSS Barista Exp | — | — | Portafilter, milk jug, cleaning tablets | 250g bean hopper, 2L water tank |
| Breville BES870XL Barista Expr | 1600 Watts | 120 Volts | Stainless Steel Portafilter, Filter Baskets, Tamper, Milk Jug, Cleaning Tools | 1/2 lb Bean Hopper |
| 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 | — |
| Breville BES880BSS Barista Tou | 1680 Watts | 110-120V | — | — |
| Breville BES985BSS Oracle Jet | — | — | — | — |
| Breville BES870BTR Barista Exp | 1600 Watts | 120 Volts | Stainless Steel Portafilter, Filter Baskets, Tamper, Milk Jug, Cleaning Tools | 1/2 lb Bean Hopper |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Breville Bambino Plus stands out for its compact size and quick heat-up time, making it perfect for those with limited counter space who still want café-quality espresso. Its automatic milk texturing and precise temperature control help achieve professional microfoam and optimal extraction, rivaling larger, more complex machines like the Barista Pro. However, the tradeoff is its limited capacity—just one or two cups at a time—and less focus on durability details. This model is ideal for individuals who prioritize space-saving design and ease of use over extensive customization or high volume. The absence of detailed durability info and higher price without a large water capacity are considerations to keep in mind.
Pros:- Compact size fits easily on small kitchen countertops
- Fast heat-up with ThermoJet technology
- Automatic milk texturing for barista-quality microfoam
Cons:- Limited to 1 or 2 cup brewing at a time
- Lack of detailed durability and capacity information
Best for: Single users or small households seeking a space-efficient, fast espresso machine for daily use
Not ideal for: Coffee enthusiasts who want a high-capacity machine or extensive customization options
- 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 is a great choice for those needing a quick, space-saving espresso machine with automatic milk features.”
Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Breville Barista Pro is tailored for users who want quick, professional-level results at home, thanks to its rapid ThermoJet heating system and an intuitive LCD interface. Compared with the Bambino Plus, it offers more customization options through its LCD, along with a larger water tank and included accessories, making it suitable for those who enjoy experimenting with different beans and drink styles. Its higher power consumption and potentially complex interface may challenge absolute beginners, but for serious coffee lovers, it provides a more comprehensive experience. This pick makes the most sense for users aiming for a semi-automatic machine that balances speed with control.
Pros:- Fast heat-up with ThermoJet system
- Large water tank and extensive accessories for customization
- Intuitive LCD interface with progress animations
Cons:- Higher power consumption
- Complex for users new to espresso machines
Best for: Intermediate to advanced users seeking fast, customizable espresso and milk drinks at home
Not ideal for: Absolute beginners or those with limited kitchen space who prefer a straightforward, plug-and-play machine
- Capacity:1/2 lb Bean Hopper, 67 oz Water Tank
- Power:1680 Watts
- Voltage:120 Volts
- Included Accessories:Filter baskets, milk jug, cleaning kit
- Water Pressure:Pre-infusion system
- Heating System:ThermoJet
Our verdict“Ideal for enthusiasts who want a fast, feature-rich machine capable of professional results with some learning curve.”
Breville Barista Express BES870BSXL Espresso Machine, Black Sesame
The Breville Barista Express is designed for those who want to control every step, featuring an integrated conical burr grinder and manual operation options. It offers a more authentic, hands-on experience compared to fully automatic machines like the Bambino Plus or Barista Pro. Its ability to brew from beans to espresso in under a minute, combined with a powerful steam wand, makes it perfect for users willing to learn the craft of espresso-making. However, its more complex setup and larger footprint can be challenging for newcomers who prefer simplicity. This machine suits dedicated hobbyists aiming to develop barista skills without stepping up to commercial-grade equipment.
Pros:- Built-in conical burr grinder for fresh grounds
- Precise PID temperature control
- Powerful steam wand for manual microfoam
Cons:- Complex setup and learning curve
- Large and heavy, takes up significant space
Best for: Home baristas eager to learn and practice manual espresso and milk texturing
Not ideal for: Casual coffee drinkers or small kitchens with limited space
- Capacity:1/2 lb Bean Hopper
- Water Tank:67 oz
- Power:1600 Watts
- Voltage:120 Volts
- Included:Accessories including tamper, milk jug, cleaning tools
Our verdict“This machine is perfect for those wanting to master manual espresso making at home, despite its initial complexity.”
Breville Bambino Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Breville Bambino offers an accessible entry point into espresso brewing with its rapid ThermoJet heating and manual steaming wand. It shares many features with the Bambino Plus but simplifies the user experience by focusing on essential functions, making it suitable for beginners or those with limited space. Its quick heat-up and manual microfoam capabilities help users learn the basics of espresso and milk texturing, but it lacks some automation and advanced control features found in higher-end models like the Barista Pro. The water tank capacity isn’t specified, which might be a concern for frequent use. This model is perfect for newcomers who want a straightforward, compact machine without sacrificing quality.
Pros:- Very fast heat-up time (around 3 seconds)
- Manual steam wand for microfoam
- Compact size suitable for small kitchens
Cons:- Water tank capacity not specified
- Limited advanced features
Best for: Beginner users or small households seeking a simple, fast espresso machine
Not ideal for: Experienced baristas or users wanting high customization and large capacity
- Power:1560 Watts
- Voltage:110-120 Volts
- Water Tank Capacity:Not specified
- Brew Group Size:54mm portafilter
- Included Accessories:Filter baskets, milk jug, tamping tools
Our verdict“A solid choice for beginners wanting a quick, space-efficient espresso machine to learn the basics.”
Breville BES876BSS Barista Express Impress, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Breville Barista Express Impress blends professional features with user-friendly innovations like manual microfoam, intelligent dosing, and auto-correct dose. It’s designed for those who want cafe-quality espresso without extensive manual effort, thanks to its built-in conical burr grinder with 25 settings and assisted tamping. Compared to the BES870, it offers more automation and consistency, making it attractive for users who prefer guided brewing with less fuss. Its larger size and 2L water tank require dedicated counter space, and its higher price reflects its advanced features. This machine is ideal for home baristas seeking a balance between professional results and simplified operation.
Pros:- Professional-level espresso and microfoam at home
- Automatic dosing and assisted tamping for consistency
- Built-in grinder with 25 settings for flavor control
Cons:- Complex setup for first-time users
- Bulkier size requiring dedicated space
Best for: Intermediate users or those wanting professional results with less manual effort
Not ideal for: Complete beginners or small kitchens with limited space
- Capacity:250g bean hopper, 2L water tank
- Grind Settings:25
- Included Accessories:Portafilter, milk jug, cleaning tablets
- Features:Manual microfoam, intelligent dosing, auto-correct dose
Our verdict“This is a strong pick for home baristas aiming for consistent, high-quality espresso with ease of use.”
Breville BES870XL Barista Express Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
This model stands out for its integrated conical burr grinder, allowing users to grind fresh beans right before extraction, which is key for rich, flavorful espresso. Its PID temperature control ensures consistency, making it a top choice for those who value precision. Compared with the Breville BES880BSS, it offers similar features but lacks the touchscreen interface, which some may find less intuitive. The tradeoff is that the BES870XL’s complex setup can be daunting for beginners, and its larger footprint demands ample counter space. Nonetheless, it delivers professional-quality results for dedicated home baristas willing to handle its learning curve.
Pros:- Built-in conical burr grinder for maximum freshness
- Precise PID temperature control for optimal extraction
- Steam wand for microfoam and latte art
- Adjustable grind size and dose for customization
Cons:- Relatively complex for beginners to operate effectively
- Large footprint on countertop
- Requires regular cleaning and maintenance
Best for: Experienced coffee enthusiasts who want a semi-automatic machine with high customization and are comfortable with maintenance.
Not ideal for: Casual users or those with limited space who prefer a simpler, more compact machine.
- 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 is a strong pick for dedicated home baristas seeking professional-quality espresso with customizable features, despite its size and complexity.”
Breville BES880BTR Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Black Truffle
The Barista Touch makes a strong impression with its intuitive touchscreen interface, which simplifies brewing and milk texturing, ideal for users who want cafe-quality drinks without complex manual steps. Its automatic microfoam milk texturing surpasses many semi-automatics, reducing skill barriers. Compared with the Brushed Stainless Steel BES880BSS, this model offers a more luxurious aesthetic in Black Truffle, but both share the same core features. However, its high price may deter budget-conscious buyers, and the large footprint can be a concern for smaller kitchens. For those who prioritize ease of use and personalized profiles, this machine offers a compelling blend of automation and control.
Pros:- Automatic microfoam milk texturing for barista-quality drinks
- Touchscreen interface for easy operation and customization
- Fast heat-up time with ThermoJet system
- Personalized coffee profiles for multiple users
Cons:- High price point may be prohibitive for some
- Complex setup for first-time users
- Large footprint requiring substantial counter space
Best for: Home baristas who desire quick, customizable drinks with minimal fuss and are willing to invest in a premium machine.
Not ideal for: Beginners seeking a simple, budget-friendly entry-level espresso machine or small-space dwellers.
- 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“Ideal for tech-savvy users who want quick, consistent, and personalized espresso drinks with minimal manual effort, despite its cost and size.”
Breville BES880BSS Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Brushed Stainless Steel version of the Barista Touch maintains the same core capabilities as the Black Truffle model but offers a sleek, durable finish suited for modern kitchens. Its touchscreen interface simplifies operation, providing customizable coffee settings and pre-programmed favorites, reducing the learning curve compared to manual machines like the BES870XL. Its fast ThermoJet system ensures quick readiness, and automatic microfoam milk texturing delivers consistent results. However, its higher price and advanced features can be overwhelming for casual users or those new to espresso making. This pick makes the most sense for those who want professional-quality drinks with minimal fuss, and who appreciate a stylish design that matches their kitchen aesthetic.
Pros:- Touchscreen interface simplifies operation
- Fast heat-up with ThermoJet system
- Automatic microfoam milk texturing for consistent drinks
- Includes accessories and free coffee beans
Cons:- High price point may be a barrier
- Complex features may require some learning
- Price premium for automatic convenience
Best for: Home users who value automation, stylish design, and quick operation without sacrificing drink quality.
Not ideal for: Budget-conscious buyers or users who prefer manual control and minimal electronic features.
- Material:Brushed Stainless Steel
- Power:1680 Watts
- Voltage:110-120V
- Water Tank Capacity:67 oz
- Bean Hopper Capacity:0.5 lbs
- Features:Touchscreen, Adjustable Grind, Programmable Milk Temp & Texture, Pre-Programmed Cafe Favorites
Our verdict“Best suited for users seeking an automatic, stylish machine that consistently delivers cafe-quality beverages with ease, despite the higher cost.”
Breville BES985BSS Oracle Jet Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Oracle Jet represents a significant step up, featuring automatic grinding, dosing, tamping, and milk frothing, making it ideal for enthusiasts who want a near-professional experience at home. Its precise temperature control and fast ThermoJet heating system ensure consistent quality across various drinks, including cold brew and milk-based options. Compared with the semi-automatic BES870XL or the touchscreen-focused BES880BSS, the Oracle Jet’s automation reduces user skill requirements, but its complex setup can be intimidating for newcomers. The tradeoff is a substantial price premium and a larger footprint, which might be less suitable for compact kitchens. It excels for users who prioritize convenience and versatility in their coffee routine.
Pros:- Automatic grinding, dosing, and tamping for consistency
- Precise temperature control with adjustable settings
- Fast ThermoJet heating for quick brewing
- Versatile options including cold brew and milk frothing
Cons:- Complex setup requiring some learning
- Premium price may be a barrier
- Bulkier design takes up more space
Best for: Home baristas seeking a high-end, versatile machine with automation features that approximate professional results.
Not ideal for: Casual drinkers or those with limited space and budget who prefer manual control over their espresso process.
- 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
Our verdict“This machine suits dedicated coffee lovers who want a near-automatic, professional-quality experience at home, accepting its size and cost.”
Breville BES870BTR Barista Express Espresso Machine, Black Truffle
The Black Truffle version of the Barista Express offers a familiar approach with its built-in conical burr grinder and manual microfoam wand, making it ideal for users who want hands-on control over their espresso process. Its PID temperature control ensures stable extraction, similar to the BES870XL, but with an aesthetic upgrade. Its grind size dial offers straightforward customization, and the all-in-one design is convenient for home use. Compared to the newer BES880BSS or BES880BTR, it lacks a touchscreen but appeals to those who prefer tactile control. The main tradeoff is that it demands more user skill and regular maintenance, which might not suit absolute beginners or those seeking simplicity.
Pros:- Built-in conical burr grinder for fresh grounds
- PID temperature control for consistent extraction
- Manual microfoam steam wand for latte art
- All-in-one design for convenience
Cons:- Requires some skill to master operation
- No touchscreen or automation features
- Regular cleaning needed for optimal performance
Best for: Home baristas who enjoy manual control and prefer a traditional, tactile brewing experience with good aesthetic appeal.
Not ideal for: Beginners or users seeking automatic features and minimal maintenance requirements.
- 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 appeals to those who value manual control and traditional espresso crafting over automation and high-tech features.”
How We Picked
These products were evaluated based on performance, usability, build quality, maintenance, and overall value. I considered how well each machine balances ease of use with feature set, ensuring that both beginners and experienced baristas find something suitable. Durability and customer feedback also played a critical role in ranking these brewers, as long-term reliability impacts user satisfaction. The lineup was narrowed down from a broad pool of Breville models, focusing on those that represent the widest range of needs and budgets, ensuring each pick offers meaningful differentiation.| Breville | Included Accessories |
|---|---|
| Breville Bambino Plus Espresso | — |
| Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro | Filter baskets, milk jug, cleaning kit |
| Breville Barista Express BES87 | — |
| Breville Bambino Espresso Mach | Filter baskets, milk jug, tamping tools |
| Breville BES876BSS Barista Exp | Portafilter, milk jug, cleaning tablets |
| Breville BES870XL Barista Expr | Stainless Steel Portafilter, Filter Baskets, Tamper, Milk Jug, Cleaning Tools |
| Breville BES880BTR Barista Tou | Stainless steel portafilter, filter baskets, milk jug, water filter, trimming tool, cleaning kit, test strip |
| Breville BES880BSS Barista Tou | — |
| Breville BES985BSS Oracle Jet | — |
| Breville BES870BTR Barista Exp | Stainless Steel Portafilter, Filter Baskets, Tamper, Milk Jug, Cleaning Tools |
Factors to Consider When Choosing Breville
Choosing the right Breville espresso machine involves several important considerations. Beyond price, factors like automation, customization, size, and maintenance can dramatically influence your experience. Understanding these aspects helps avoid common pitfalls like overspending on features you won’t use or buying a machine too complex for your skill level.Performance and Brew Quality
Look for machines with powerful boilers and consistent temperature control to ensure quality shots every time. Features like pre-infusion and pressure profiling can improve extraction, but they might add complexity. A machine’s ability to produce rich crema and balanced flavor should be a primary focus, especially if espresso is your main goal.
Ease of Use and Automation
Automated features such as steam wand controls, programmable shots, and automatic milk frothing make brewing more straightforward. For beginners, these features reduce the learning curve, while experienced users might prefer manual controls for customization. Striking the right balance between automation and control helps prevent frustration or underperformance.
Size and Kitchen Fit
Consider your available counter space and storage needs. Compact models like the Bambino Plus are ideal for smaller kitchens, but they might lack certain features found in larger, more advanced machines. Conversely, larger units often include more automation and durability at the expense of footprint, so measure your space carefully before purchasing.
Maintenance and Durability
Breville machines with stainless steel components and self-cleaning features tend to last longer and require less upkeep. Pay attention to water filtration and descaling requirements, as these impact long-term performance. Investing in a machine with accessible parts and clear maintenance instructions saves time and money over the years.
Price and Value
Higher-priced models often include advanced features and better build quality, but they aren’t always necessary for every user. Consider your brewing frequency and skill level to determine whether investing in a premium model makes sense. Sometimes, a mid-tier machine provides the best overall value, offering high performance without the hefty price tag.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make professional-quality espresso at home with a Breville machine?
Yes, many Breville models are designed to produce café-quality espresso, especially those with features like precise temperature control, pressure profiling, and built-in grinders. However, achieving professional results also depends on your skill, technique, and quality of beans. Starting with a higher-end model like the Oracle Jet can give you more control, but consistent practice is key to making excellent espresso at home.
Are Breville espresso machines difficult to maintain?
Most Breville machines are relatively straightforward to maintain thanks to their durable build and user-friendly cleaning features. Regular descaling, cleaning the portafilter, and changing water filters are essential steps that help keep your machine performing well. Choosing a model with accessible parts and clear instructions simplifies ongoing maintenance tasks, making it easier to keep your espresso machine in top shape.
Is it worth paying extra for a fully automatic Breville espresso machine?
Fully automatic models like the Breville Oracle Jet offer convenience and consistency, especially for busy mornings or those new to espresso. They automate tasks such as grinding, tamping, and milk frothing, saving time and effort. However, they come at a higher price point and may limit customization options, so consider whether you value automation over control and whether your budget aligns with these features.
Which Breville machine is best for beginners?
The Breville Bambino Plus is an excellent choice for those new to espresso because of its simple interface, quick heat-up time, and automatic milk frothing. It provides quality results without overwhelming complexity, making it easier to learn the basics of espresso making. As you gain experience, you might consider upgrading to more advanced models with additional customization options.
How do I choose between a semi-automatic and automatic Breville espresso machine?
Semi-automatic machines offer more control over brewing parameters, which appeals to enthusiasts who want to refine their technique. Automatic machines, on the other hand, handle much of the process, making them ideal for users seeking convenience and consistency. Your decision should depend on your interest level, willingness to learn, and how much time you want to spend brewing each cup.
Conclusion
For those seeking a reliable, versatile machine with excellent value, the Breville Barista Express BES870XL remains the best overall choice. Beginners or casual drinkers will find the Bambino Plus a more approachable entry point. For users desiring premium automation and top-tier features, the Breville Oracle Jet BES980BSS makes sense despite its higher price. Budget-conscious buyers should consider mid-tier options that balance performance with affordability. Ultimately, your ideal Breville depends on your skill level, space, and how much you want to invest in your coffee setup.
