When searching for a Breville espresso machine, you’re looking for a combination of performance, ease of use, and durability. The Breville BES880BTR Barista Touch stands out as the best overall, offering advanced features and user-friendly controls. For those on a budget, the Breville Bambino Plus provides excellent value without sacrificing quality, while the Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro offers a more professional experience for serious enthusiasts. The main tradeoffs involve balancing price against features, size, and user experience. Continue reading for a detailed breakdown of each model to find the perfect fit for your coffee ritual.
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Key Takeaways
- The top-tier models like the Barista Touch excel in customization and automation, ideal for enthusiasts who want precision.
- Entry-level options such as the Bambino Plus offer a strong balance of quality and affordability for beginners.
- Design consistency across models ensures durability and ease of maintenance, but size varies significantly.
- The presence of integrated grinders in higher-end models adds convenience but increases overall cost.
- Tradeoffs often include slower heat-up times in budget models versus quicker, more responsive performance in premium options.
| Breville BES880BTR Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Black Truffle |  | Best Overall for Easy, High-Quality Coffee at Home | Power: 1680 Watts | Voltage: 110 to 120V | Water Tank Capacity: 67 oz | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES870BTR Barista Express Espresso Machine, Black Truffle |  | Best for 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 Compact for Small Spaces with Fast Heating | Power: 1560 Watts | Voltage: 110-120 Volts | Included Accessories: 1 and 2 cup filter baskets, milk jug, portafilter, tamper, cleaning tool, descaling powder | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES870XL Barista Express Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best All-in-One for Beginners and Enthusiasts | Capacity: 1/2 lb Bean Hopper | Water Tank: 67 oz | Power: 1600 Watts | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES881BSS Barista Touch Impress, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for Customization and Automated Assistance | 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 Overall for Home Baristas Who Want Café-Quality Results | Capacity: 250g bean hopper, 2L water tank | Grind Settings: 25 | Included Accessories: 54mm stainless steel portafilter, milk jug, filter baskets, water filter holder, trimming tool, cleaning tablets | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES876DBL Barista Express Impress, Damson Blue |  | Best for Users Who Prioritize Customization and Style | Capacity: 250g bean hopper, 2L water tank | Grind Settings: 25 | Included Accessories: Stainless steel milk jug, filter baskets, water filter holder, trimming tool, cleaning tablets | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES880BSS Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for Tech-Savvy Users Seeking Convenience | Material: Brushed Stainless Steel | Power: 1680 Watts | Water Tank Capacity: 67 oz | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for Speed and Precision for Intermediate to Advanced Home Baristas | Capacity: 1/2 lb bean hopper, 67 oz water tank | Power: 1680 Watts | Included Accessories: Single & dual wall filter baskets, razor dose trimming tool, milk jug, cleaning kit | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best Compact for Small Kitchens and Easy Use | Weight: Not specified | Power: 1560 Watts | Voltage: 110-120 Volts | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville | Power | Voltage | Included Accessories | Capacity |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Breville BES880BTR Barista Tou | 1680 Watts | 110 to 120V | 54mm stainless steel portafilter, filters, milk jug, water filter, trimming tool, cleaning kit, test strip | — |
| Breville BES870BTR Barista Exp | 1600 Watts | 120 Volts | — | 1/2 lb Bean Hopper |
| Breville Bambino Espresso Mach | 1560 Watts | 110-120 Volts | 1 and 2 cup filter baskets, milk jug, portafilter, tamper, cleaning tool, descaling powder | — |
| Breville BES870XL Barista Expr | 1600 Watts | 120 Volts | — | 1/2 lb Bean Hopper |
| Breville BES881BSS Barista Tou | — | — | — | — |
| Breville BES876BSS Barista Exp | — | — | 54mm stainless steel portafilter, milk jug, filter baskets, water filter holder, trimming tool, cleaning tablets | 250g bean hopper, 2L water tank |
| Breville BES876DBL Barista Exp | — | — | Stainless steel milk jug, filter baskets, water filter holder, trimming tool, cleaning tablets | 250g bean hopper, 2L water tank |
| Breville BES880BSS Barista Tou | 1680 Watts | — | — | — |
| Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro | 1680 Watts | — | Single & dual wall filter baskets, razor dose trimming tool, milk jug, cleaning kit | 1/2 lb bean hopper, 67 oz water tank |
| Breville Bambino Plus Espresso | 1560 Watts | 110-120 Volts | — | — |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Breville BES880BTR Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Black Truffle
This model stands out for its combination of automatic milk texturing, a user-friendly touchscreen, and customizable settings that appeal to coffee enthusiasts seeking cafe-quality drinks with minimal fuss. Compared with the Breville BES870BTR, the BES880BTR offers a more intuitive interface and hands-free microfoam, making it ideal for those who want convenience without sacrificing quality. However, its high price and complexity might be daunting for casual users or those with limited kitchen space. The fast heat-up via ThermoJet and precise dose grinding ensure consistent results, but the limited voltage makes it less versatile for international buyers.
Pros:- Automatic microfoam milk texturing for professional-quality drinks
- Touchscreen interface simplifies operation and customization
- Fast heat-up with ThermoJet technology
Cons:- High purchase cost may be prohibitive for casual users
- Learning curve for mastering all features
Best for: Espresso lovers who want a premium machine that simplifies latte art and microfoam production.
Not ideal for: Budget-conscious beginners or users in regions with different electrical standards, due to its high price and voltage restrictions.
- Power:1680 Watts
- Voltage:110 to 120V
- Water Tank Capacity:67 oz
- Bean Hopper Capacity:0.5 lbs
- Included Accessories:54mm stainless steel portafilter, filters, milk jug, water filter, trimming tool, cleaning kit, test strip
- Warranty:2 Years
Our verdict“This machine suits serious espresso fans willing to invest in convenience and quality, and who prioritize ease of use.”
Breville BES870BTR Barista Express Espresso Machine, Black Truffle
This model makes the most sense for those who want hands-on control over their espresso, thanks to its built-in conical burr grinder and manual steam wand. Compared to the Breville BES880BTR, it offers a more tactile experience, but with a steeper learning curve and less automation. Its integrated grinder ensures fresh grounds for each shot, yet the limited capacity and the need for user skill might frustrate beginners. The precise PID temperature control guarantees optimal extraction, but the machine’s complexity could be overwhelming for casual coffee drinkers seeking simplicity.
Pros:- Built-in conical burr grinder for fresh, customizable grounds
- Precise PID temperature control for optimal extraction
- Powerful steam wand for manual microfoam milk texturing
Cons:- Relatively high price for a home machine
- Steeper learning curve for beginners
Best for: Home baristas who enjoy grinding and frothing manually for a personalized coffee experience.
Not ideal for: Users seeking quick, push-button operation without learning the nuances of espresso making.
- Capacity:1/2 lb Bean Hopper
- Water Tank:67 oz
- Power:1600 Watts
- Voltage:120 Volts
- Included:Razor Dose Trimming Tool, Stainless Steel Portafilter, Filter Baskets, Coffee Scoop, Tamper, Milk Jug, Cleaning Tools, Water Filter
Our verdict“Best suited for dedicated coffee enthusiasts who want control and freshness over every shot, willing to learn the craft.”
Breville Bambino Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Bambino is perfect for small kitchens needing a quick, reliable espresso maker with minimal footprint. Unlike the larger Barista Pro, it sacrifices some advanced features but wins on speed and simplicity, thanks to its ThermoJet system that heats in under 3 seconds. Its automatic milk wand and precise temperature regulation make it accessible for casual users, but it lacks the manual control some espresso aficionados crave. The compact size and quick startup make it an excellent choice for limited counter space, though its price might seem steep for a machine with basic features.
Pros:- Fast heat-up with ThermoJet system
- Automatic steam wand for microfoam
- Compact design suitable for small kitchens
Cons:- Limited to home use, not suitable for frequent large-volume brewing
- May require some skill for perfect extraction
Best for: Home users with limited space who want fast, consistent espresso without extensive learning.
Not ideal for: Experienced baristas or those wanting advanced control and customization, as it offers fewer manual options.
- Power:1560 Watts
- Voltage:110-120 Volts
- Included Accessories:1 and 2 cup filter baskets, milk jug, portafilter, tamper, cleaning tool, descaling powder
- Espresso Settings:1 or 2 Cups, Hot Water, Steam
- Warranty:1 Year Limited
Our verdict“Ideal for small kitchens needing quick, quality espresso with minimal fuss and space commitment.”
Breville BES870XL Barista Express Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
This machine balances features for those new to espresso and experienced home baristas, combining a conical burr grinder with precise temperature control for consistent extraction. Compared with the Barista Touch, it lacks touchscreen automation but offers manual control for customization. Its built-in grinder and powerful steam wand allow for fresh grounds and microfoam, but the learning curve can be steep for newcomers unfamiliar with espresso nuances. The compact design makes it suitable for home use, though its price may deter casual users seeking simplicity.
Pros:- Built-in conical burr grinder for fresh grounds
- PID temperature control for consistent extraction
- Manual steam wand for microfoam milk
Cons:- Learning curve for beginners
- Relatively high price point
Best for: Aspiring home baristas who want a comprehensive, all-in-one machine to learn espresso craft.
Not ideal for: Those seeking a fully automatic experience or with limited budget, since it requires skill and investment.
- Capacity:1/2 lb Bean Hopper
- Water Tank:67 oz
- Power:1600 Watts
- Voltage:120 Volts
- Included:Razor Dose Trimming Tool, 54mm Stainless Steel Portafilter, Filter Baskets, Coffee Scoop, Tamper, Milk Jug, Cleaning Supplies, Water Filter
Our verdict“Best for users eager to develop espresso skills with a versatile machine that offers manual control and quality results.”
Breville BES881BSS Barista Touch Impress, Brushed Stainless Steel
This pick makes the most sense for those who want a semi-automatic machine with advanced automation, including assisted tamping, auto steam wand, and customizable profiles. Compared to the Bambino, the Barista Touch Impress offers a touchscreen with preset options and step-by-step guidance, making it suitable for those who enjoy a more guided yet personalized experience. Its cold brew function and adjustable milk settings add versatility, but the larger size and premium price might deter users with limited space or tighter budgets. The auto features streamline operation, but may reduce the hands-on feel some enthusiasts prefer.
Pros:- Touchscreen interface with preset and customizable options
- Auto MilQ milk system with alternative milk settings
- Assisted tamping and precise extraction for consistent results
Cons:- Complex features may overwhelm new users
- High price and larger size limit space options
Best for: Home baristas seeking a balance of automation, customization, and ease of use in a premium machine.
Not ideal for: Complete beginners or budget-conscious buyers, due to its complexity and cost.
- Material:Brushed Stainless Steel
- Heating System:ThermoJet
- Grinder:Baratza European conical burrs, 30 grind settings
- Display:Touchscreen
- Presets:13 café favorites, up to 6 customizable
Our verdict“Ideal for experienced users who want automation and customization in a stylish, feature-rich machine.”
Breville BES876BSS Barista Express Impress, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Breville BES876BSS Barista Express Impress stands out for combining professional-grade espresso and milk steaming with user-friendly features like assisted tamping and auto-dosing. Compared with the Barista Pro, it offers more hands-on control, making it ideal for those who enjoy experimenting with brewing variables. However, its setup can be complex for absolute beginners, and its size requires a dedicated space. The included features such as a manual microfoam wand and customizable grind settings enable crafting rich espresso and milk drinks, but the learning curve and bulkiness are tradeoffs. This machine makes the most sense for enthusiastic home users who want control without sacrificing quality, despite the higher price and size.
Pros:- Professional-quality espresso and milk frothing
- Assisted tamping and auto-dosing simplify the process
- 25 grind settings for customizable flavor
Cons:- Complex setup may intimidate beginners
- Relatively large size requires dedicated counter space
Best for: Home baristas who enjoy manual control and café-quality espresso at home
Not ideal for: Small kitchens or users seeking a straightforward, plug-and-play espresso machine
- Capacity:250g bean hopper, 2L water tank
- Grind Settings:25
- Included Accessories:54mm stainless steel portafilter, milk jug, filter baskets, water filter holder, trimming tool, cleaning tablets
- Features:Manual microfoam, intelligent dosing, auto-correct dose, assisted tamping, PID temperature control, hot water function
Our verdict“This pick is best for experienced home users seeking a control-rich machine that delivers café-quality drinks.”
Breville BES876DBL Barista Express Impress, Damson Blue
The Breville BES876DBL Damson Blue combines the same core features as the standard model but adds a bold color for style-conscious buyers. Its integrated grinder with 25 adjustable settings offers precise control, and assisted tamping helps ensure consistency—favorable compared to traditional semi-automatics like the BES880BSS. While its larger footprint demands ample counter space, its vibrant color makes it a statement piece. The machine’s complexity may challenge beginners, but experienced users will appreciate the customization options and durable build. If aesthetics matter alongside performance, this model makes a compelling choice, despite its size and price.
Pros:- Vibrant damson blue finish adds aesthetic appeal
- Integrated grinder with 25 adjustable settings
- Assisted tamping for consistent results
- Powerful steam wand for microfoam
Cons:- Requires significant counter space due to size
- More complex setup may deter beginners
Best for: Design-savvy coffee enthusiasts who want a customizable machine with visual flair
Not ideal for: Limited kitchen space or users seeking a simple, minimal setup
- Capacity:250g bean hopper, 2L water tank
- Grind Settings:25
- Included Accessories:Stainless steel milk jug, filter baskets, water filter holder, trimming tool, cleaning tablets
Our verdict“Ideal for style-conscious espresso lovers who want customization and a bold look, accepting the larger footprint and complexity.”
Breville BES880BSS Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Breville BES880BSS Barista Touch elevates home espresso with its touchscreen interface and automated features, including an automatic microfoam wand—making it easier than the Barista Pro for those who prefer a guided experience. Its fast ThermoJet heating system ensures quick readiness, and the integrated grinder maintains freshness. However, the high price and complex features may be overwhelming for newcomers, and its bulkier design requires a spacious countertop. This model excels for users who value convenience and programmable options over total manual control, but those on a budget or with limited space might prefer simpler options.
Pros:- Automatic microfoam wand for barista-quality milk
- Touchscreen interface simplifies operation
- Fast heat-up with ThermoJet system
- Built-in grinder ensures fresh grounds
Cons:- High price point may be prohibitive
- Complex features require some learning curve
Best for: Tech-savvy home users who want a fast, automated, and customizable espresso experience
Not ideal for: Beginners seeking a straightforward, manual espresso machine
- Material:Brushed Stainless Steel
- Power:1680 Watts
- Water Tank Capacity:67 oz
- Features:Touchscreen, programmable settings, automatic milk texturing
Our verdict“Best suited for users who prioritize speed, automation, and modern features over manual control and simplicity.”
Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro combines rapid heat-up with the ThermoJet system and a full-color LCD interface, making it a favorite for those wanting quick, precise results. Its manual microfoam wand offers control for latte art, similar to the BES876BSS, but with a more streamlined interface that appeals to users comfortable with some automation. Compared to the BES880BSS, it lacks touchscreen but compensates with faster startup. The larger size and higher price mean it’s best for dedicated coffee enthusiasts rather than casual users, but it balances speed with detailed control for a satisfying experience.
Pros:- Fast ThermoJet heat-up in 3 seconds
- Precise temperature control for optimal extraction
- Manual microfoam wand for latte art
- Clear LCD display for intuitive operation
Cons:- Higher price compared to entry-level models
- Size may require a dedicated spot on the counter
Best for: Intermediate to advanced home baristas who value quick operation and detailed control
Not ideal for: Beginners or those with limited space who prefer simple, automatic machines
- Capacity:1/2 lb bean hopper, 67 oz water tank
- Power:1680 Watts
- Included Accessories:Single & dual wall filter baskets, razor dose trimming tool, milk jug, cleaning kit
Our verdict“Perfect for experienced users seeking rapid, precise espresso with some manual control, at the expense of a higher price and space.”
Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Breville Bambino Plus offers a compact footprint ideal for small kitchens, without sacrificing key features like automatic microfoam milk texturing and quick heat-up via the ThermoJet system. While it doesn’t include a built-in grinder, its straightforward operation makes it suitable for casual coffee drinkers or those new to espresso. Compared with larger machines like the Barista Express Impress, it lacks extensive customization but wins on size and simplicity. The absence of detailed controls and the need for registration for promotional offers are minor drawbacks, but its efficiency and ease of use make it a compelling choice for limited spaces.
Pros:- Compact size fits small kitchens
- Fast heat-up with ThermoJet system
- Automatic steam wand for microfoam
- Simple operation suitable for beginners
Cons:- Lack of built-in grinder limits customization
- Price not specified, may be high for some
Best for: Small kitchen owners or beginners seeking an easy, reliable espresso machine
Not ideal for: Advanced users wanting extensive control or integrated grinding features
- Weight:Not specified
- Power:1560 Watts
- Voltage:110-120 Volts
- Width:7.7 inches
- Water Pressure:Pre-infusion system
- Number of Cups:1 or 2
Our verdict“Ideal for small kitchens and beginners who want quick, automatic espresso with minimal fuss without sacrificing quality.”
How We Picked
The products in this roundup were selected based on a combination of performance, usability, build quality, and value. We prioritized models that deliver consistent espresso quality, ease of operation, and reliable durability. Features such as automation, customization options, and maintenance requirements also played a significant role. To rank these machines, we compared their technical specs, user reviews, and overall reputation in the coffee community, ensuring a variety of options for different budgets and skill levels.Factors to Consider When Choosing Breville
Choosing the right Breville espresso machine involves understanding several key factors that impact your coffee experience. Beyond price, consider how much control you want over brewing parameters, the size of the machine, and whether automation suits your routine. Investing in a machine with the right features can significantly enhance your daily coffee ritual, but it’s easy to get overwhelmed by options. Here are the main factors to guide your decision.Performance and Brew Quality
High-quality espresso depends on precise temperature control, pressure stability, and consistent extraction. More advanced models like the Barista Touch have integrated PID temperature regulation and better pressure profiling, producing richer, more balanced shots. Cheaper models may struggle with temperature fluctuations, leading to inconsistent results. Think about how serious you are about your espresso—if you want café-level quality, prioritize machines with advanced brewing technology.
Ease of Use and Automation
Some Breville models feature fully automated operation, including milk frothing and shot timing, which is perfect for busy mornings or beginners. Others require manual control, offering more customization but demanding more skill. Consider your comfort level with coffee equipment—if you prefer a hands-off experience, look for machines with intuitive touchscreens or preset programs. Remember, more automation typically comes with a higher price and less control over every brewing detail.
Size and Kitchen Fit
Breville machines range from compact models like the Bambino Plus to larger, more feature-rich options. Measure your available counter space before buying, as some machines can be quite bulky. Compact models are easier to store and move, but they might lack certain features or capacity. Larger machines often include built-in grinders and larger water reservoirs, which are convenient but require more space and can be more difficult to clean.
Maintenance and Durability
Durability hinges on build quality and ease of maintenance. Machines with accessible components and straightforward cleaning routines tend to last longer and stay performing well. Higher-end models often include automatic cleaning cycles, which save time but add to the cost of replacement parts. Investing in a machine with good customer support and widely available accessories can reduce long-term frustrations.
Value and Long-Term Cost
While premium models come with more features, they also cost more upfront. Consider whether the additional features align with your coffee habits—if you rarely use advanced settings, a simpler model might offer better value. Also factor in ongoing costs such as replacement filters, cleaning supplies, and accessories. Sometimes, paying more initially can mean fewer repairs and better performance over time, especially if you’re serious about espresso.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it worth paying more for a Breville espresso machine?
Paying more for a Breville typically means access to better build quality, more precise temperature control, and automation features that improve consistency and convenience. If you brew espresso regularly and value the craft of making high-quality coffee, investing in a higher-end model can be worthwhile. However, if you’re just starting out or brewing occasionally, a more affordable option may meet your needs without overextending your budget.
Can I use pre-ground coffee with a Breville machine?
Most Breville espresso machines are designed to work with fresh, ground coffee, but many models include a built-in or compatible grinder, allowing you to use whole beans for maximum freshness. If you prefer pre-ground coffee, check whether the machine allows for bypassing the grinder or has a ground coffee port. Keep in mind that using freshly ground beans often yields better flavor and consistency than pre-ground options.
How important is the size of the machine for home use?
The size of your Breville machine matters if space is limited in your kitchen. Compact models like the Bambino Plus fit easily on small counters, making them ideal for apartments or tight spaces. Larger models with more features, such as the Barista Touch, require more room and may need dedicated storage. Consider your available space and how often you’ll need to move or clean the machine when choosing the right size.
Are automatic milk frothers better than manual ones?
Automatic milk frothers, often integrated in higher-end Breville models, make producing creamy, consistent foam effortless and are great for beginners or busy mornings. Manual frothers give you more control over texture and temperature but require practice. Depending on your skill level and how much time you want to spend on milk preparation, choose a machine that aligns with your comfort and desired level of involvement.
What should I consider if I want to upgrade from a basic machine?
If you’re upgrading, look for features like PID temperature control, pressure profiling, and integrated grinders, which significantly improve espresso quality. Consider whether you want more automation or manual control, and how much space you’re willing to dedicate. Upgrading usually means investing in a machine that offers more consistent results and better durability, so weigh these benefits against your budget and personal coffee goals.
Conclusion
For newcomers to espresso, the Breville Bambino Plus offers a straightforward, affordable start with good results. Serious enthusiasts should consider the Barista Touch or Barista Pro for advanced features and customization. Those seeking a balance of convenience and quality might find the Barista Express to be the best fit, especially if they want an integrated grinder. For premium buyers dedicated to craft and durability, investing in a higher-end model delivers the best long-term value. Ultimately, your choice depends on your skill level, space, and how much you’re willing to spend to perfect your home espresso setup.
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