When searching for a Breville coffee machine, you’re typically balancing performance, ease of use, and price. The Breville BES870BSXL Barista Express stands out as the best overall for its combination of features and reliability. For those seeking a more advanced experience, the Breville BES880BSS Barista Touch offers touchscreen controls and customization. However, these machines come with tradeoffs—higher-end models cost more, while simpler options may lack advanced features. Continue reading for a detailed breakdown to help you find the perfect Breville for your needs.
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Key Takeaways
- The top-ranked Breville models excel in build quality and espresso quality, but the most expensive options often include advanced features that may be unnecessary for casual users.
- There’s a clear performance gap between entry-level machines and premium models, especially in grind consistency and temperature stability.
- Many models share similar core features, but differences in usability and customization make certain picks better suited for beginners versus experienced baristas.
- Price often correlates with extra features like touchscreen controls, smarter temperature control, and faster heat-up times, but these are not always essential for good espresso.
- Durability and maintenance ease vary, with higher-end models typically offering better long-term reliability and simpler cleaning processes.
| Breville BES876DBL Barista Express Impress, Damson Blue |  | Best for Precision and Professional-Quality Control | Capacity: 250g bean hopper, 2L water tank | Grind Settings: 25 | Portafilter Size: 54mm | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES870BSXL Barista Express Espresso Machine, Black Sesame |  | Best for Versatile Manual Control and Fresh Grounds | 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 Results | Power: 1560 Watts | Voltage: 110 to 120 Volts | Included Accessories: 1 & 2 cup filter baskets, milk jug, portafilter, tamper, steam wand tip cleaning tool, descaling powder | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES880BSS Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for User-Friendly Digital Customization | Power: 1680 Watts | Voltage: 110 to 120V | Water Tank Capacity: 67 oz | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES876BST Barista Express Impress, Black Stainless Steel |  | Best for Consistent Professional Results with Tamping Assistance | 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 Overall for Authentic Home Baristas | Capacity: 1/2 lb Bean Hopper | Water Tank: 67 oz | Power: 1600 Watts | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for Speed and User-Friendly Experience | Capacity: 1/2 lb Bean Hopper, 67 oz Water Tank | Power: 1680 Watts | Voltage: 120 Volts | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES881BSS Barista Touch Impress, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for Convenience and Customization | Material: Brushed Stainless Steel | Heating System: ThermoJet | Grinder: Baratza European conical burrs, 30 grind settings | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES876BSS Barista Express Impress, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for Professional-Grade Results with Ease | Capacity: 250g bean hopper; 2L water tank | Grind Settings: 25 | Included Accessories: 54mm stainless steel portafilter, milk jug, filter baskets, water filter holder, cleaning tablets | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES870XL Barista Express Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for All-in-One Value | Capacity: 1/2 lb Bean Hopper | Water Tank: 67 oz | Power: 1600 Watts | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville | Included Accessories | Capacity | Power | Voltage |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Breville BES876DBL Barista Exp | Stainless steel milk jug, filter baskets, water filter holder, trimming tool, cleaning tablets | 250g bean hopper, 2L water tank | — | — |
| Breville BES870BSXL Barista Ex | — | 1/2 lb Bean Hopper | 1600 Watts | — |
| Breville Bambino Espresso Mach | 1 & 2 cup filter baskets, milk jug, portafilter, tamper, steam wand tip cleaning tool, descaling powder | — | 1560 Watts | 110 to 120 Volts |
| Breville BES880BSS Barista Tou | 54mm stainless steel portafilter, water filter, milk jug, cleaning kit | — | 1680 Watts | 110 to 120V |
| Breville BES876BST Barista Exp | Stainless steel milk jug, filter baskets, water filter holder, trimming tool, cleaning tablets | 250g bean hopper, 2L water tank | — | — |
| Breville BES870BTR Barista Exp | 54mm Stainless Steel Portafilter, Single & Dual Wall Filter Baskets, Coffee Scoop, Tamper, Milk Jug, Cleaning Tools, Water Filter | 1/2 lb Bean Hopper | 1600 Watts | 120 Volts |
| Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro | Single & Dual Wall Filter Baskets, Razor Dose Trimming Tool, Milk Jug, Cleaning Kit, Water Filter | 1/2 lb Bean Hopper, 67 oz Water Tank | 1680 Watts | 120 Volts |
| Breville BES881BSS Barista Tou | 2 free bags of specialty coffee | — | — | — |
| Breville BES876BSS Barista Exp | 54mm stainless steel portafilter, milk jug, filter baskets, water filter holder, cleaning tablets | 250g bean hopper; 2L water tank | — | — |
| Breville BES870XL Barista Expr | — | 1/2 lb Bean Hopper | 1600 Watts | 120 Volts |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Breville BES876DBL Barista Express Impress, Damson Blue
The Breville BES876DBL Barista Express Impress stands out for its integrated grinder with 25 adjustable settings, allowing users to fine-tune their coffee to perfection. Its assisted tamping and intelligent dosing ensure consistent extraction, making it ideal for those who want professional results without extensive barista skills. Compared to the Barista Express, this model offers more precise control but demands a more involved setup, which could challenge beginners. The large size and higher price tag are tradeoffs for its advanced features, making it less suitable for small kitchens or casual users who prefer simplicity.
Pros:- Integrated grinder with 25 adjustable settings for precise control
- Assisted tamping for consistent espresso extraction
- Steam wand produces microfoam suitable for latte art
Cons:- Complex setup may intimidate beginners
- Relatively large size requires ample counter space
- Higher price point may be prohibitive for casual users
Best for: Home baristas seeking high control over their espresso quality and enjoy tinkering with settings
Not ideal for: Casual coffee drinkers or those with limited counter space who prefer plug-and-play simplicity
- 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
Our verdict“This machine is best suited for serious hobbyists and those wanting professional-level customization at home.”
Breville BES870BSXL Barista Express Espresso Machine, Black Sesame
The Breville Barista Express offers a compelling balance of manual control and convenience, with a built-in conical burr grinder and precise PID temperature regulation. Its 67 oz water tank and 1/2 lb bean hopper make it suitable for daily use without constant refilling. Compared with the Bambino, it provides more control over grind size and extraction, but its larger footprint and more complex operation require some learning. While not as automated as the Barista Touch, it appeals to those who enjoy customizing their brew process, despite needing regular cleaning and maintenance.
Pros:- Built-in conical burr grinder for fresh grounds
- Precise temperature regulation (PID) ensures optimal extraction
- Powerful steam wand for manual microfoam milk texturing
Cons:- Relatively high price for its feature set
- Steep learning curve for newcomers
- Requires regular cleaning and upkeep
Best for: Home enthusiasts who want to learn and control every step of espresso making without sacrificing quality
Not ideal for: Beginners who prefer a simple setup or small kitchens with limited space
- Capacity:1/2 lb Bean Hopper
- Water Tank:67 oz
- Power:1600 Watts
- Included:54mm Stainless Steel Portafilter, Single & Dual Wall Filter Baskets, Coffee Scoop, Tamper, Milk Jug, Cleaning Tools, Water Filter
Our verdict“This model is ideal for those ready to develop barista skills and enjoy hands-on coffee craft at home.”
Breville Bambino Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Breville Bambino makes a strong case for compactness paired with speed, thanks to ThermoJet technology that heats up in seconds. Its automatic steam wand simplifies microfoam milk preparation, perfect for users who want café-quality drinks without fuss. Compared to the more feature-rich Barista Express, the Bambino offers less control over grind and extraction but compensates with a smaller footprint and straightforward operation. Its manual aspects mean it’s not suited for those seeking complete automation or professional-grade customization, but for small kitchens or quick mornings, it delivers reliable performance.
Pros:- Rapid heat-up with ThermoJet technology
- Automatic steam wand for microfoam milk
- Compact and suitable for small kitchens
Cons:- Limited to home use, not commercial-grade
- Requires manual operation for perfect espresso
- No built-in grinder, adding extra equipment needed
Best for: Busy individuals or small kitchen setups needing quick, quality espresso with minimal fuss
Not ideal for: Aspiring home baristas wanting extensive control or grinding features
- Power:1560 Watts
- Voltage:110 to 120 Volts
- Included Accessories:1 & 2 cup filter baskets, milk jug, portafilter, tamper, steam wand tip cleaning tool, descaling powder
- Bambino Settings:1 or 2 cups, hot water, steam
- Warranty:1 Year Limited
Our verdict“This machine is perfect for those who prioritize speed and convenience over advanced customization.”
Breville BES880BSS Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Breville Barista Touch elevates home espresso with its intuitive touchscreen and quick heat-up system, making it accessible for users of all skill levels. Its automatic microfoam milk texturing and integrated grinder streamline the process, while advanced customization options appeal to those who want precise control without manual effort. Compared to the Bambino, it offers more automation and a modern interface, but at a significantly higher price. Limited to 110-120V, it’s best for households with compatible power supplies and those who value digital interfaces for consistency and ease of use.
Pros:- Touchscreen interface for effortless operation and customization
- Fast heat-up with ThermoJet system
- Automatic microfoam milk texturing for barista-quality drinks
Cons:- High price point limits accessibility
- Features may require a learning curve
- Limited to 110-120V power supply
Best for: Home users seeking a high-tech, customizable espresso experience with minimal manual effort
Not ideal for: Budget-conscious buyers or those in regions with differing electrical standards
- Power:1680 Watts
- Voltage:110 to 120V
- Water Tank Capacity:67 oz
- Bean Hopper Capacity:0.5 lb
- Included Accessories:54mm stainless steel portafilter, water filter, milk jug, cleaning kit
Our verdict“Designed for tech-savvy home baristas who want a blend of automation and customization without manual fuss.”
Breville BES876BST Barista Express Impress, Black Stainless Steel
The Breville BES876BST Barista Express Impress combines the core features of the original with a focus on consistency through assisted tamping and intelligent dosing. Its built-in grinder with 25 adjustable settings ensures fresh coffee grounds, and the automated tamping system reduces variability, making it ideal for those who want reliable results with less manual effort. Compared with the Barista Express, the Impress simplifies some steps but maintains a large footprint and higher cost, which might deter casual users or those with limited space. The powerful steam wand remains a highlight for microfoam creation.
Pros:- Integrated grinder with 25 adjustable settings for precision
- Assisted tamping and intelligent dosing for consistent results
- Powerful steam wand for microfoam and latte art
Cons:- Complex setup may challenge novices
- Relatively large footprint for small kitchens
- Higher price can be a barrier for casual users
Best for: Home users who want consistent, café-quality espresso with less manual tamping and dosing
Not ideal for: Beginners or small kitchen owners who prefer simpler, more compact machines
- 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
Our verdict“Ideal for dedicated home baristas who prioritize automation and consistent results over simplicity.”
Breville BES870BTR Barista Express Espresso Machine, Black Truffle
The Breville Barista Express stands out as the most versatile option, combining a built-in conical burr grinder and precise temperature control to deliver café-quality espresso, lattes, and cappuccinos. Compared with the Breville BES870XL, it offers more personalized control over grind size and dose, but this added customization comes with a more complex setup, which might challenge beginners. Its bulky design and heavier weight could be a drawback for small kitchens or frequent movers. However, its ability to produce fresh grounds and microfoam milk with a powerful steam wand makes it ideal for dedicated home enthusiasts willing to handle some learning curve.
Pros:- Built-in conical burr grinder for fresh grounds
- Precise temperature control (PID) for optimal extraction
- Powerful steam wand for microfoam milk texturing
Cons:- Relatively complex setup for beginners
- Heavier and bulky design
Best for: Home baristas who want a comprehensive, customizable espresso experience and don’t mind a steeper setup process
Not ideal for: Casual users seeking a quick, straightforward coffee machine without the need to learn manual controls
- Capacity:1/2 lb Bean Hopper
- Water Tank:67 oz
- Power:1600 Watts
- Voltage:120 Volts
- Included Accessories:54mm Stainless Steel Portafilter, Single & Dual Wall Filter Baskets, Coffee Scoop, Tamper, Milk Jug, Cleaning Tools, Water Filter
Our verdict“This machine best suits dedicated coffee lovers looking for full control over their espresso process despite its higher price and size.”
Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Barista Pro offers rapid heat-up with its ThermoJet system and a sleek LCD interface, making it a strong choice for those who want quick results without sacrificing quality. Compared to the Barista Express or Impress, it emphasizes speed and ease of use, with intuitive controls suitable for both beginners and experienced users. While its higher price and limited capacity may be a concern for frequent, heavy usage, its precise PID temperature control and adjustable grind provide consistent, high-quality espresso with less fuss. The inclusion of accessories like a cleaning kit adds value, but the learning curve remains for those unfamiliar with espresso settings.
Pros:- Fast heat-up time with ThermoJet system
- Precise temperature control (PID)
- User-friendly LCD interface with progress animations
Cons:- Relatively high price point
- Limited capacity for frequent or multiple shots without refilling
Best for: Home users who value quick, consistent espresso with minimal fuss and have some familiarity with espresso basics
Not ideal for: Complete beginners seeking a machine with simplified operation or those on a tight budget
- Capacity:1/2 lb Bean Hopper, 67 oz Water Tank
- Power:1680 Watts
- Voltage:120 Volts
- Included Accessories:Single & Dual Wall Filter Baskets, Razor Dose Trimming Tool, Milk Jug, Cleaning Kit, Water Filter
- Features:ThermoJet heating system, PID temperature control, LCD display, adjustable grind, 1/2 and 2 cup settings
- Warranty:2 Year Limited
Our verdict“This pick is ideal for espresso enthusiasts who prioritize speed and ease of use over maximum capacity or cost savings.”
Breville BES881BSS Barista Touch Impress, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Barista Touch Impress elevates home espresso with its intuitive touchscreen, automatic milk texturing, and built-in grinder, making it especially appealing for users who want variety without complexity. Compared with the Barista Express, it offers a faster heat-up (3 seconds) and more automated features, but at a significantly higher cost. Its large, touchscreen interface allows for quick customization of drinks and settings, appealing to tech-savvy users. The built-in grinder with 30 settings allows for flavor control, but its bulkier size and price might deter those with limited space or tighter budgets. For those seeking café-quality drinks with minimal manual effort, this machine stands out.
Pros:- Fast 3-second heat-up with ThermoJet system
- Touchscreen with customizable presets
- Automatic milk texturing with alternative milk options
Cons:- High price point may be a barrier
- Complex features might require a learning curve
Best for: Home baristas who want quick, customizable drinks with automatic milk texturing and a modern interface
Not ideal for: Budget-conscious users or those with limited space who prefer manual control over every step
- Material:Brushed Stainless Steel
- Heating System:ThermoJet
- Grinder:Baratza European conical burrs, 30 grind settings
- Touchscreen:Yes
- Milk Frothing:Auto MilQ steam wand with alternative milk settings
- Cold Brew Function:Yes
- Included Accessories:2 free bags of specialty coffee
Our verdict“This machine is best suited for users seeking effortless customization and high-tech features at home, willing to invest in convenience.”
Breville BES876BSS Barista Express Impress, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Barista Express Impress combines professional features like an intelligent dosing system and manual microfoam wand with user-friendly elements such as assisted tamping. Compared with the Barista Pro or Touch, it provides a more traditional interface but with improved consistency thanks to its auto-correct dose and tamping assistance. Its 25 grind settings and manual milk steaming make it flexible for different styles but require some familiarity with espresso techniques. Its size and need for regular cleaning could be a drawback for small kitchens or casual users. Overall, this machine balances professional results with approachable operation, making it suitable for serious hobbyists.
Pros:- Professional-level espresso and milk frothing capabilities
- Intelligent dosing and assisted tamping for consistency
- Built-in conical burr grinder with multiple settings
Cons:- Complex setup may be overwhelming for complete beginners
- Relatively large footprint
Best for: Home baristas who want professional-level espresso and milk frothing without complex manual operations
Not ideal for: Complete beginners or those with limited space seeking a more compact or automated machine
- Capacity:250g bean hopper; 2L water tank
- Grind Settings:25
- Included Accessories:54mm stainless steel portafilter, milk jug, filter baskets, water filter holder, cleaning tablets
- Features:Manual microfoam, intelligent dosing, auto-correct dose, assisted tamping, PID temperature control, hot water function
Our verdict“Ideal for dedicated home users who value consistent, cafe-quality results with some automation and are comfortable with a larger machine.”
Breville BES870XL Barista Express Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Barista Express XL maintains many of the core features that made the original popular, such as a built-in conical burr grinder and manual microfoam wand, but at a slightly lower price point. Compared to the Barista Express in black truffle, this model offers similar core capabilities with fewer aesthetic options, but it remains a balanced choice for home users seeking an all-in-one machine. Its learning curve can be steep for newcomers due to manual controls and maintenance needs, but it provides an excellent entry point for those willing to learn. Its compact, all-in-one design makes it suitable for most kitchens, though it still requires regular cleaning and some skill to master.
Pros:- Built-in conical burr grinder for fresh grounds
- Manual microfoam wand for latte art
- Compact all-in-one design suitable for home use
Cons:- Learning curve for new users
- Requires regular cleaning and maintenance
Best for: Budget-conscious home baristas looking for a reliable, all-in-one espresso setup
Not ideal for: Complete beginners seeking an ultra-simplified experience or users with very limited space
- Capacity:1/2 lb Bean Hopper
- Water Tank:67 oz
- Power:1600 Watts
- Voltage:120 Volts
- Included:Coffee scoop, tamper, cleaning tools
Our verdict“This model offers good value for those willing to put in some effort to learn espresso making at home.”
How We Picked
Each Breville model was evaluated based on performance, build quality, ease of use, and value for money. We prioritized machines that consistently deliver high-quality espresso and milk frothing, as well as those with durable construction and user-friendly interfaces. Our ranking also considers how well each product balances features versus price, avoiding models that offer unnecessary complexity or cost. This approach ensures that the list caters to a range of users—from newcomers to seasoned home baristas—while highlighting what makes each model unique.Factors to Consider When Choosing Breville
Choosing the right Breville machine requires understanding several key factors that impact your brewing experience. Beyond just price, consider how much control you want over variables like temperature and grind size. Ease of use is also important—some models are more intuitive for beginners, while others cater to advanced users. Maintenance and durability should influence your choice, especially if you plan to use your machine daily. Finally, think about space and design compatibility with your kitchen to ensure your new coffee maker fits seamlessly into your routine.Performance and Brew Quality
Look for machines with consistent temperature stability and precise pressure control, as these directly affect espresso flavor. Machines with built-in burr grinders or excellent portafilter design will help produce richer, more balanced shots. Keep in mind that higher-end models usually have better thermal stability, which translates to more reliable results over time, especially if you brew frequently.
Ease of Use and Learning Curve
Some Breville models include touchscreen controls and pre-programmed settings, making them accessible for beginners. Others offer more manual controls for those who want to fine-tune every aspect of their brew. Consider your comfort level with espresso-making—more advanced features can be rewarding but may require a learning period, whereas simpler models deliver good results with minimal fuss.
Build Quality and Durability
Materials like stainless steel and high-quality plastics impact both appearance and longevity. Higher-priced models tend to feature stronger construction and better internal components, which can reduce long-term maintenance costs. If you plan to use your machine daily, investing in a more durable option might save you money and effort down the line.
Maintenance and Cleaning
Ease of cleaning can significantly affect your overall experience. Machines with automatic cleaning features or accessible parts simplify routine upkeep. Consider models with removable drip trays and water filters to keep your coffee tasting fresh without extra hassle. Proper maintenance also extends the lifespan of the machine, making this an important factor in your decision.
Size and Design Compatibility
Measure your available counter space before selecting a machine. Breville offers models with various footprints, from compact units to larger, feature-rich options. Additionally, choose a design that complements your kitchen decor. Some models have sleek, modern finishes, while others favor a more classic look—matching your style can enhance your overall kitchen aesthetic.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a built-in grinder necessary for good espresso?
While a built-in grinder simplifies the process and can improve freshness, it isn’t strictly necessary for making good espresso. External grinders tend to offer more precise grind settings, which can enhance shot quality. If you’re starting out or prefer convenience, a machine with an integrated grinder can be a good choice, but manual grinders or separate units often provide better control for experienced users.
How important is temperature stability in a Breville machine?
Temperature stability is key to consistent espresso extraction; fluctuations can lead to sour or bitter flavors. Higher-end Breville models incorporate PID temperature control, maintaining steady heat during brewing. For casual use, models without advanced temperature control may suffice, but if you’re aiming for barista-quality shots regularly, investing in a machine with precise thermal management is worthwhile.
Should I choose a manual or automatic milk frother?
Manual frothers give you more control over milk texture and temperature, which can be satisfying if you enjoy customizing your drinks. Automatic frothers are more convenient and quicker, ideal for busy mornings or if you prefer consistency without much effort. Your choice depends on how much hands-on involvement you want in your coffee-making process.
Are more expensive Breville models worth the extra cost?
Higher-priced models often include features like touchscreen controls, faster heat-up times, and superior build quality, which can enhance your experience. However, if you’re new to espresso or don’t need advanced customization, a more affordable model can deliver excellent results without the added cost. Consider your skill level and how much you value extra features before investing.
What is the typical lifespan of a Breville espresso machine?
With proper maintenance, most Breville machines last around 5-10 years. Regular descaling, cleaning, and replacing worn parts can extend this lifespan significantly. Investing in a higher-end model often means better internal components and longer durability, making it a wise choice if you plan to use your machine daily or for many years.
Conclusion
For casual coffee drinkers or beginners, models like the Breville Bambino offer simplicity and good value. Serious home baristas aiming for more control should consider the Breville Barista Express or Barista Pro for their balance of features and performance. Those seeking premium features and faster operation will find the Barista Touch worth the investment. Ultimately, your choice depends on your experience level, how often you brew, and your budget, but each of these Breville options provides a solid foundation for great espresso at home.
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