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Breville is a leading name in kitchen appliances, known for blending performance with sleek design. The best overall pick is the Breville Barista Touch for its advanced features and ease of use, while the Bambino Plus offers excellent value for newcomers seeking quality espresso. The Milk Café Frother stands out for those prioritizing milk texture. Buyers often face tradeoffs between price, features, and user experience. Continue reading for a detailed breakdown of each option to find the right fit for your kitchen.

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6
compared
1
brands
1680 Watts
max power
Which Breville should you buy?
★ Top Pick
Breville BKE820XL IQ Kettle Wa
Best for Precise Temperature Control
Precise temperature control for optimal brewing
See on Amazon →
Home baristas who want fresh grounds and are comfortable with some learning curve to craft espresso shots
Breville BES870XL Barista Expr
Built-in conical burr grinder for fresh grounds
View on Amazon →
Intermediate users seeking consistent espresso with manual control options, without the need for touchscreen features
Breville BES840XL Infuser Espr
Precise temperature control with PID
View on Amazon →
Coffee enthusiasts who want customizable drinks and a user-friendly interface to streamline their brewing
Breville BES880BSS Barista Tou
Touchscreen interface for easy customization
View on Amazon →
Small kitchen owners or casual coffee drinkers who value speed and simplicity in espresso making
Breville Bambino Plus Espresso
Fast heat-up with ThermoJet system
View on Amazon →
Power — compared
Breville BKE820XL IQ Kettle Wa1500 Watts
Breville BES870XL Barista Expr1600 Watts
Breville BES840XL Infuser Espr1650 Watts
Breville BES880BSS Barista Tou1680 Watts
Breville Bambino Plus Espresso1560 Watts
Breville Milk Café Frother BMF500 Watts
Pros & cons at a glance
Breville BKE820XL IQ Kettle Wa
✓ Precise temperature control for optimal brewing
✗ Limited to 7 cups capacity, not suited for large groups
Breville BES870XL Barista Expr
✓ Built-in conical burr grinder for fresh grounds
✗ Relatively high power consumption
Breville BES840XL Infuser Espr
✓ Precise temperature control with PID
✗ Can be complex for complete beginners
Breville BES880BSS Barista Tou
✓ Touchscreen interface for easy customization
✗ Features may require time to master
Breville Bambino Plus Espresso
✓ Fast heat-up with ThermoJet system
✗ Limited to small capacity (1-2 cups at a time)
Breville Milk Café Frother BMF
✓ Consistent, perfect temperature control thanks to induction heating
✗ Limited to 500 Watts, may require more time for larger quantities

Complete the kit

Brita Standard Pitcher and Dispenser Replacement Water Fi...
Brita Standard Pitcher and Dispenser Replacement Water Fi…
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Levoit Core 300-P Air Purifier Replacement Filter, Genuin...
Levoit Core 300-P Air Purifier Replacement Filter, Genuin…
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ZeroWater Official Replacement Water Filter Removes PFOA/…
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Key Takeaways

  • The Breville Barista Touch offers a perfect balance of automation and customization, making it the top choice for serious espresso enthusiasts.
  • The Bambino Plus provides remarkable value, especially for beginners, with simple operation and quick heat-up times.
  • The Milk Café Frother excels in milk steaming, but its standalone design means it’s best paired with other espresso machines.
  • Build quality and ease of cleaning are consistent strengths across Breville products, but higher-end models add more advanced features.
  • Tradeoffs often revolve around size, price, and complexity; more features typically mean a steeper learning curve or higher cost.
2
Breville BES870XL Barista Expr
Best for Freshly Ground Espresso
1
Breville BKE820XL IQ Kettle Wa
Best for Precise Temperature Control
3
Breville BES840XL Infuser Espr
Best for Balanced, Consistent Shots

Our Top Breville Picks

Breville BKE820XL IQ Kettle Water Boiler, Brushed Stainless SteelBreville BKE820XL IQ Kettle Water Boiler, Brushed Stainless SteelBest for Precise Temperature ControlCapacity: 7 cups (57 oz)Material: Brushed Stainless SteelPower: 1500 WattsVIEW ON AMAZONSee Our Full Breakdown
Breville BES870XL Barista Express Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless SteelBreville BES870XL Barista Express Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless SteelBest for Freshly Ground EspressoCapacity: 1/2 lb Bean HopperWater Tank: 67 ozPower: 1600 WattsVIEW ON AMAZONSee Our Full Breakdown
Breville BES840XL Infuser Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless SteelBreville BES840XL Infuser Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless SteelBest for Balanced, Consistent ShotsPower: 1650 WattsVoltage: 110 to 120 VoltsWater Tank Capacity: 61 ozVIEW ON AMAZONSee Our Full Breakdown
Breville BES880BSS Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless SteelBreville BES880BSS Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless SteelBest for Customization & Ease of UseModel: BES880BSSMaterial: Brushed Stainless SteelPower: 1680 WattsVIEW ON AMAZONSee Our Full Breakdown
Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless SteelBreville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless SteelBest Compact & Fast Heat-UpDimensions: 7.7 inches widePower: 1560 WattsVoltage: 110-120 VoltsVIEW ON AMAZONSee Our Full Breakdown
Breville Milk Café Frother BMF600XL, Brushed Stainless SteelBreville Milk Café Frother BMF600XL, Brushed Stainless SteelBest for Consistent, Effortless Milk FrothingBrand: BrevilleModel Name: BMF600XLIncluded Components: LidVIEW ON AMAZONSee Our Full Breakdown
Specs at a glance
BrevillePowerVoltageWarranty
Breville BKE820XL IQ Kettle Wa1500 Watts110-120 Volts1 Year
Breville BES870XL Barista Expr1600 Watts120 Volts1 Year Limited
Breville BES840XL Infuser Espr1650 Watts110 to 120 Volts—
Breville BES880BSS Barista Tou1680 Watts110-120V2 Years
Breville Bambino Plus Espresso1560 Watts110-120 Volts2 Years
Breville Milk Café Frother BMF500 Watts110-120 Volts1 year limited

More Details on Our Top Picks

  1. Breville BKE820XL IQ Kettle Water Boiler, Brushed Stainless Steel

    Breville BKE820XL IQ Kettle Water Boiler, Brushed Stainless Steel

    Best for Precise Temperature Control

    View on Amazon

    This kettle stands out for its ability to precisely control water temperature, making it ideal for brewing delicate teas and specialty coffees. Compared with traditional kettles, the BKE820XL offers pre-programmed settings that optimize brewing without guesswork, though it lacks a digital display for real-time temperature readouts. Its cordless design and safety features like auto shut-off enhance usability, but its 7-cup capacity might be limiting for larger households. Unlike the espresso-focused Breville models, this kettle emphasizes temperature accuracy for beverage quality rather than volume or brewing speed.

    Pros:
    • Precise temperature control for optimal brewing
    • Cordless operation with 360-degree base for convenience
    • Keep-warm feature maintains temperature for 20 minutes
    Cons:
    • Limited to 7 cups capacity, not suited for large groups
    • No digital display for real-time temperature reading

    Best for: Tea enthusiasts and coffee drinkers who prioritize precise temperature control for optimal flavor extraction

    Not ideal for: Large families or those needing a high-capacity kettle, as it only holds 7 cups and lacks a digital display for easy monitoring

    • Capacity:7 cups (57 oz)
    • Material:Brushed Stainless Steel
    • Power:1500 Watts
    • Voltage:110-120 Volts
    • Model Number:BKE820XL
    • Warranty:1 Year
    Our verdict
    “This kettle is perfect for individual users or small households seeking precise beverage brewing with safety features.”
  2. Breville BES870XL Barista Express Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel

    Breville BES870XL Barista Express Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel

    Best for Freshly Ground Espresso

    View on Amazon

    This model makes a compelling case for those who want barista-quality espresso at home, thanks to its built-in conical burr grinder that ensures fresh grounds with every shot. Compared to the more automated BES880BSS, the BES870XL offers more manual control, which appeals to enthusiasts willing to learn, though it involves a steeper learning curve and higher power consumption. Its 67 oz water tank limits continuous use, but the integrated grinder reduces the need for separate equipment. If your priority is quality and customization over simplicity, this machine offers a serious upgrade from basic single-serve options, though it’s less beginner-friendly than simpler models like the Bambino Plus.

    Pros:
    • Built-in conical burr grinder for fresh grounds
    • Precise temperature control with PID
    • Steam wand for microfoam milk
    Cons:
    • Relatively high power consumption
    • Limited water tank capacity for continuous use

    Best for: Home baristas who want fresh grounds and are comfortable with some learning curve to craft espresso shots

    Not ideal for: Casual users or those who prefer quick, push-button operation without learning manual techniques

    • Capacity:1/2 lb Bean Hopper
    • Water Tank:67 oz
    • Power:1600 Watts
    • Voltage:120 Volts
    • Warranty:1 Year Limited
    Our verdict
    “This machine suits espresso lovers eager to refine their craft, accepting some complexity for superior flavor control.”
  3. Breville BES840XL Infuser Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel

    Breville BES840XL Infuser Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel

    Best for Balanced, Consistent Shots

    View on Amazon

    The BES840XL Infuser emphasizes consistency and balance, thanks to its low pressure pre-infusion technology that ensures even extraction. Compared to the more feature-rich BES880BSS, the Infuser is a more straightforward choice, especially for those new to espresso who want reliable results without too many bells and whistles. Its 61 oz water tank supports multiple shots, but the machine may feel a bit complex for absolute beginners due to its volumetric and manual shot controls. For those who value controlled, high-quality espresso with minimal fuss, this model delivers, though it doesn’t boast the touchscreen interface of the newer Barista Touch.

    Pros:
    • Precise temperature control with PID
    • Low pressure pre-infusion for better extraction
    • Includes versatile accessories
    Cons:
    • Can be complex for complete beginners
    • Requires learning to operate manual controls

    Best for: Intermediate users seeking consistent espresso with manual control options, without the need for touchscreen features

    Not ideal for: Absolute beginners or users who want a fully automatic experience with minimal learning curve

    • Power:1650 Watts
    • Voltage:110 to 120 Volts
    • Water Tank Capacity:61 oz
    Our verdict
    “This machine is well-suited for those who want high-quality, consistent espresso with some control over the process, but not for total novices.”
  4. Breville BES880BSS Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel

    Breville BES880BSS Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel

    Best for Customization & Ease of Use

    View on Amazon

    The Barista Touch elevates home espresso making with its touchscreen interface, allowing quick customization and saveable profiles. It combines automatic microfoam milk texturing with precise dose grinding, making it a more accessible choice than the Infuser or the BES870XL for those wanting professional results with minimal effort. Compared with the Bambino Plus, the addition of a touchscreen makes setup and adjustments more intuitive, though the higher price tag might be a barrier. Its 67 oz water tank and included accessories suit serious home baristas who enjoy experimenting without sacrificing convenience, but the complexity may overwhelm absolute beginners.

    Pros:
    • Touchscreen interface for easy customization
    • Automatic microfoam milk texturing
    • Fast heat-up with ThermoJet system
    Cons:
    • High price point
    • Features may require time to master

    Best for: Coffee enthusiasts who want customizable drinks and a user-friendly interface to streamline their brewing

    Not ideal for: Budget-conscious buyers or complete novices who prefer simple, manual espresso machines

    • Model:BES880BSS
    • Material:Brushed Stainless Steel
    • Power:1680 Watts
    • Voltage:110-120V
    • Water Tank Capacity:67 oz
    • Warranty:2 Years
    Our verdict
    “Ideal for home baristas seeking a combination of ease, customization, and professional-quality milk texturing, despite the higher investment.”
  5. Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel

    Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel

    Best Compact & Fast Heat-Up

    View on Amazon

    The Bambino Plus excels in small spaces, offering a fast heat-up with its ThermoJet system and automatic milk texturing for effortless microfoam. Compared with larger models like the BES880BSS, it sacrifices some advanced customization for simplicity and speed, making it an excellent choice for those with limited kitchen space or who want quick results. Its small footprint and user-friendly features make it suitable for casual espresso drinkers, but the limited capacity and manual skill required for perfect shots could be drawbacks for more serious enthusiasts. Its higher price for such a compact design makes it less appealing for those seeking high-volume or highly customizable espresso experiences.

    Pros:
    • Fast heat-up with ThermoJet system
    • Automatic milk texturing for barista-quality drinks
    • Compact size fits small kitchens
    Cons:
    • Limited to small capacity (1-2 cups at a time)
    • Requires manual skill for perfect extraction

    Best for: Small kitchen owners or casual coffee drinkers who value speed and simplicity in espresso making

    Not ideal for: Experienced baristas or those wanting high-volume, customizable espresso with extensive control

    • Dimensions:7.7 inches wide
    • Power:1560 Watts
    • Voltage:110-120 Volts
    • Water Pressure:19 grams, low pressure pre-infusion
    • Heating System:ThermoJet
    • Warranty:2 Years
    Our verdict
    “A great choice for space-constrained kitchens that want quick, quality espresso without fuss, though it’s less suited for high-volume use.”
  6. Breville Milk Café Frother BMF600XL, Brushed Stainless Steel

    Breville Milk Café Frother BMF600XL, Brushed Stainless Steel

    Best for Consistent, Effortless Milk Frothing

    View on Amazon

    The Breville Milk Café Frother BMF600XL stands out for its ability to produce rich, creamy milk for lattes, cappuccinos, and hot chocolate with minimal effort. Unlike manual frothers, its induction heating ensures precise temperature control, resulting in better texture and flavor. Compared to the Breville Bambino Plus, which excels in espresso quality, this frother complements those drinks with perfectly textured milk, making it ideal for home baristas. Its automatic shut-off and multiple frothing discs simplify operation, but the 500-watt power limits rapid frothing of larger quantities, which could be inconvenient during busy mornings. The dishwasher-safe jug adds convenience, though its stainless steel finish offers limited aesthetic options beyond classic looks. Overall, this frother makes the most sense for those who prioritize consistent milk quality over speed or multiple functions.

    Pros:
    • Consistent, perfect temperature control thanks to induction heating
    • Simple to operate with automatic shut-off and multiple frothing discs
    • Easy to clean with dishwasher-safe jug
    Cons:
    • Limited to 500 Watts, may require more time for larger quantities
    • Only available in brushed stainless steel, offering limited color options

    Best for: Home coffee enthusiasts who want reliably perfect milk for their espresso drinks without manual effort

    Not ideal for: Users seeking rapid or large-volume frothing, or those wanting a wider range of beverage preparation in one device

    • Brand:Breville
    • Model Name:BMF600XL
    • Included Components:Lid
    • Voltage:110-120 Volts
    • Power:500 Watts
    • Item Weight:41.6 ounces
    • Recommended Uses:Lattes, Cappuccinos, Hot Chocolate
    • Warranty:1 year limited
    Our verdict
    “This frother is ideal for individuals who prioritize quality and consistency in milk texture over speed or multi-functionality.”
Breville
What makes a great Breville
1
Performance and Ease of Use
A key factor is how well the appliance performs, especially in delivering consistent results.
2
Size and Counter Space
Breville offers a range of sizes, from compact espresso machines to larger models with more features.
3
Maintenance and Durability
Regular cleaning extends the lifespan and maintains performance.
4
Features and Customization
More features mean greater control over your brew, but they can also increase complexity.
How to choose your Breville
1
How we picked
Our evaluation focused on performance, usability, build quality, maintenance, and value.
2
Performance and Ease of Use
A key factor is how well the appliance performs, especially in delivering consistent results.
3
Size and Counter Space
Breville offers a range of sizes, from compact espresso machines to larger models with more features.
4
Maintenance and Durability
Regular cleaning extends the lifespan and maintains performance.
5
Features and Customization
More features mean greater control over your brew, but they can also increase complexity.
Vetted Breville ·
The best Breville, compared
★ Winner Breville BKE820XL IQ Kettle Wa
Best for Precise Temperature Control
6compared
1680 Wattstop power

How We Picked

Our evaluation focused on performance, usability, build quality, maintenance, and value. We selected models that represent different user needs—from entry-level to premium—and prioritized appliances with proven reliability and innovative features. The ranking reflects a mix of consumer feedback, expert insights, and the overall balance of price versus performance. We aimed to highlight options suitable for various budgets and skill levels, ensuring each product offers distinct advantages and tradeoffs.
Everyday → specialist
Everyday & valuePremium & specialist
Which Breville fits you?
The everyday user
All-round, reliable
The enthusiast
Premium & high-performance
The gift-giver
Looks & craftsmanship

Factors to Consider When Choosing Breville

Choosing the right Breville appliance depends on your specific needs and how much you’re willing to invest. Consider the intended use—whether you want a quick, straightforward espresso or a more customizable experience. Size and countertop space can influence your choice, especially with larger espresso machines or standalone frothers. Think about maintenance requirements, as some models need more regular cleaning to keep performing well. Finally, weigh the importance of features like milk frothing, programmability, and build quality to find the best fit for your kitchen and skill level.

Performance and Ease of Use

A key factor is how well the appliance performs, especially in delivering consistent results. More advanced machines like the Barista Touch automate many steps, but they can be complex for beginners. Simpler models like the Bambino Plus focus on quick operation and ease of cleaning, making them better for casual users. Consider your willingness to learn and whether you prefer manual control or automated features.

Size and Counter Space

Breville offers a range of sizes, from compact espresso machines to larger models with more features. If space is limited, a smaller machine like the Bambino Plus can fit comfortably without sacrificing too much functionality. Conversely, larger models like the Barista Touch can handle more complex tasks but require ample counter space. Measure your available area carefully before choosing.

Maintenance and Durability

Regular cleaning extends the lifespan and maintains performance. Machines with removable components, such as drip trays and water filters, tend to be easier to maintain. Higher-end models often include auto-clean functions, reducing user effort. Investing in a durable build can also save money in the long run, especially if you plan to use your appliance frequently.

Features and Customization

More features mean greater control over your brew, but they can also increase complexity. If you value precise control over temperature and pressure, look for models with customizable settings. For those who prefer simplicity, basic models with preset options might be preferable. Milk frothing capabilities vary widely and should match your preferred milk-based drinks.

Price and Value

Budget limits influence your choice significantly. Entry-level models like the Bambino Plus deliver good quality at a lower price, but they lack some advanced features. Higher-end options like the Barista Touch come at a premium but include comprehensive automation and customization. Consider what features are worth the extra cost based on how often you plan to use the appliance and your desired results.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it worth paying more for a Breville espresso machine?

Investing in a higher-priced Breville espresso machine often means gaining features like touchscreen controls, customizable brewing parameters, and faster heat-up times. These enhancements can significantly improve your experience, especially if you make espresso regularly. However, for casual users or beginners, more affordable models can still produce excellent results without the added complexity and cost. Weigh your usage frequency and desired level of control when deciding whether to spend more.

Can I use any milk frother with a Breville espresso machine?

Most Breville espresso machines come with their own built-in frothing systems, but standalone frothers like the Milk Café are compatible with any espresso maker. If you prefer a dedicated milk frother, ensure it can handle the volume and type of milk you typically use. Using a separate frother can sometimes offer more control over texture and temperature, but it also adds to your countertop clutter.

How important is water filtration in Breville machines?

Water filtration is essential for maintaining the longevity of your espresso machine and ensuring the best-tasting coffee. Many Breville models include built-in water filters or recommend using external filters. Regularly replacing these filters helps prevent mineral buildup, which can impair performance and lead to repairs over time. If you have hard water, investing in a machine with a good filtration system is especially worthwhile.

Are Breville espresso machines suitable for beginners?

Yes, some Breville models like the Bambino Plus are designed with simplicity in mind, making them ideal for newcomers. They often feature automatic milk frothing and straightforward controls, reducing the learning curve. However, more advanced models like the Barista Touch may require some familiarity with espresso brewing techniques. Beginners should consider starting with a simpler model before progressing to more complex options.

What maintenance does a Breville espresso machine require?

Regular maintenance includes descaling, cleaning the brew head, and replacing water filters, which helps prolong the machine’s lifespan and maintain flavor quality. Many models have automatic cleaning cycles or reminders to facilitate this process. Proper maintenance is especially important if you use hard water or brew frequently. Dedicate a few minutes weekly to cleaning, and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for optimal performance.

Conclusion

For the most dedicated espresso lovers, the Breville Barista Touch offers comprehensive features and convenience. Those seeking great value without sacrificing quality should consider the Bambino Plus, especially if you’re new to espresso. Buyers prioritizing milk frothing should look at the Milk Café Frother for dedicated milk-texturing. For casual users, a more straightforward, compact machine may suffice, while premium users will appreciate the advanced customization in higher-end models. Your choice depends on your skill level, budget, and how often you plan to use your machine.
FALL

Fall Picks

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