Breville offers a wide range of espresso machines that cater to both beginners and seasoned baristas. The Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro stands out as the best overall choice for its balance of features and ease of use. For those seeking a more budget-friendly option, the Breville Bambino Plus delivers quality at a lower price point, while the Breville BES880BTR Barista Touch impresses with its advanced automation. Buyers often face tradeoffs between price, user experience, and customization, making it essential to understand what each model offers. Keep reading for a detailed comparison to find the perfect Breville for your needs.
Get kitchen gear delivered free — and shop member deals
- Fast, free delivery on millions of items
- Access to Prime Big Deal Days deals on October 6–7
- Prime Video, Amazon Music and more included
Complete the kit
Key Takeaways
- The top picks excel in balancing automation and manual control, catering to different skill levels.
- Price differences reflect features like touchscreen controls, steam wand quality, and build materials.
- Most models are designed for convenience, but higher-end options offer more customization for experienced users.
- Durability and ease of maintenance are consistent strengths across Breville machines, but some models require more regular cleaning.
- Choosing the right model depends heavily on your budget and how much you value automation versus control.
| Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best Compact for Small Spaces | Weight: Not specified | Power: 1560 Watts | Voltage: 110-120 Volts | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES880BTR Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Black Truffle |  | Best for Enthusiasts Who Value Customization | Power: 1680 Watts | Voltage: 110 to 120V | Water Tank Capacity: 67 oz | 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 | Included Accessories: Filter baskets, milk jug, portafilter | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES876BSS Barista Express Impress, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for Home Baristas Who Want Professional Features | Capacity: 250g bean hopper, 2L water tank | Grind Settings: 25 | Included Accessories: Portafilter, milk jug, filter baskets | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES880BSS Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for Users Who Want a Touchscreen Experience | Material: Brushed Stainless Steel | Power: 1680 Watts | Voltage: 110-120V | 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 BES876DBL Barista Express Impress, Damson Blue |  | Best for Precision and Personalization | 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 for Traditional Manual Control | 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 Tech-Savvy Users | Capacity: 1/2 lb Bean Hopper, 67 oz Water Tank | Power: 1680 Watts | Heating System: ThermoJet | 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 | Display: Touchscreen | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville | Power | Voltage | Included Accessories | Capacity |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Breville Bambino Plus Espresso | 1560 Watts | 110-120 Volts | — | — |
| Breville BES880BTR Barista Tou | 1680 Watts | 110 to 120V | Various, including portafilter and milk jug | — |
| Breville Bambino Espresso Mach | 1560 Watts | 110-120 Volts | Filter baskets, milk jug, portafilter | — |
| Breville BES876BSS Barista Exp | — | — | Portafilter, milk jug, filter baskets | 250g bean hopper, 2L water tank |
| Breville BES880BSS Barista Tou | 1680 Watts | 110-120V | — | — |
| Breville BES870XL Barista Expr | 1600 Watts | 120 Volts | — | 1/2 lb Bean Hopper |
| Breville BES876DBL 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 | 1600 Watts | 120 Volts | — | 1/2 lb Bean Hopper |
| Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro | 1680 Watts | — | Single & Dual Wall Filter Baskets, Razor Dose Trimming Tool, Milk Jug, Cleaning Kit, Water Filter | 1/2 lb Bean Hopper, 67 oz Water Tank |
| Breville BES881BSS Barista Tou | — | — | — | — |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Breville Bambino Plus stands out for its incredibly compact size, making it ideal for small kitchens where space is limited. Its fast heat-up via the ThermoJet system ensures you can brew espresso quickly without waiting. The automatic steam wand simplifies milk frothing for cappuccinos and lattes, providing consistent microfoam—comparable to larger, more expensive machines like the Barista Touch but with fewer features. The main tradeoff is that this model offers fewer customization options, focusing on ease of use instead of deep control. Its 2-year warranty adds peace of mind, though its price might be a barrier for casual users who don’t need a premium espresso device.
Pros:- Compact size fits small kitchens easily
- Fast heat-up with ThermoJet system
- Automatic steam wand for microfoam
Cons:- Limited customization options
- No detailed weight information
Best for: Small kitchen owners or those with limited countertop space who want quick, quality espresso.
Not ideal for: Serious coffee enthusiasts seeking extensive customization or professional-grade 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
- Warranty:2 Years
Our verdict“This is the best choice for those prioritizing size and quick operation over advanced features.”
Breville BES880BTR Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Black Truffle
The Breville BES880BTR Barista Touch elevates home espresso making with its touchscreen interface and automatic microfoam, making it more approachable for those who want professional results without manual skills. Compared to the Bambino Plus, it offers more personalized control over brewing parameters, plus a larger water tank and bean hopper for convenience. Its fast ThermoJet heating system ensures rapid readiness, but its higher price may be prohibitive for casual users. The complex features can be overwhelming for beginners, but for dedicated espresso lovers, this model delivers a truly customizable experience with minimal effort.
Pros:- Automatic microfoam milk texturing
- Touchscreen interface for easy operation
- Fast heat-up with ThermoJet system
- Large water tank and bean hopper
Cons:- High price point
- Complex features may require a learning curve
- Limited to 110-120V power supply
Best for: Home baristas who want a combination of automation and control with minimal fuss.
Not ideal for: Casual users or those seeking a simple, budget-friendly machine without advanced features.
- Power:1680 Watts
- Voltage:110 to 120V
- Water Tank Capacity:67 oz
- Bean Hopper Capacity:0.5 lbs
- Included Accessories:Various, including portafilter and milk jug
- Warranty:2 Years
Our verdict“Ideal for coffee aficionados seeking a versatile, high-tech machine that simplifies professional-quality brewing at home.”
Breville Bambino Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Breville Bambino offers a straightforward, space-efficient way to make café-quality espresso at home. Its ThermoJet fast heating system shortens wait times, and the automatic steam wand helps create microfoam milk with less effort, making it perfect for beginners. Unlike the Barista Express, it lacks a built-in grinder, so users need to have pre-ground coffee or a separate grinder, which can complicate the process for newcomers. The price is relatively high for an entry-level model, but it compensates with ease of use and reliable performance in a small footprint.
Pros:- Fast heat-up with ThermoJet
- Compact design fits small kitchens
- Automatic steam wand for microfoam
Cons:- No built-in grinder
- May require some learning for perfect extraction
- Price might be high for casual users
Best for: Novice home baristas who prioritize quick setup and compact size.
Not ideal for: Experienced users wanting extensive customization or built-in grinding options.
- Power:1560 Watts
- Voltage:110-120 Volts
- Included Accessories:Filter baskets, milk jug, portafilter
- Espresso Settings:1 or 2 Cups, Hot Water, Steam
- Warranty:1 Year Limited
Our verdict“Perfect for beginners who need a simple, space-saving espresso machine that delivers consistent results.”
Breville BES876BSS Barista Express Impress, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Breville BES876BSS Barista Express Impress combines advanced features like a manual microfoam wand, intelligent dosing, and a 25-setting conical burr grinder to produce café-quality espresso and milk drinks. It’s a step up from the Bambino series, offering more control over grind size and dose for better extraction and flavor. Its manual microfoam wand allows for latte art, and the assisted tamping makes consistency easier for beginners willing to learn. However, its more complex setup and larger size mean it’s less suited for small kitchens or casual users, and its price is higher. This model suits those who want a professional experience but are comfortable with a slightly steeper learning curve.
Pros:- Manual microfoam wand for latte art
- Auto-correct dose and assisted tamping
- Built-in conical burr grinder with 25 settings
- PID temperature control for precision
Cons:- Complex setup may challenge beginners
- Bulkier size requires dedicated space
- Higher price point
Best for: Home baristas eager to develop their skills with a semi-automatic machine and advanced controls.
Not ideal for: Users with limited space or those seeking a simple, plug-and-play experience.
- Capacity:250g bean hopper, 2L water tank
- Grind Settings:25
- Included Accessories:Portafilter, milk jug, filter baskets
- Features:Manual microfoam, auto-dosing, assisted tamping
Our verdict“Best suited for dedicated coffee lovers ready to explore manual control and professional features at home.”
Breville BES880BSS Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Breville BES880BSS Barista Touch offers a semi-automatic experience combined with a highly intuitive touchscreen interface that simplifies brewing for users of all skill levels. Its automatic microfoam wand produces consistent milk for lattes and cappuccinos, while the integrated grinder ensures fresh grounds for each shot. Compared to the simpler Bambino Plus, it offers more control over brewing parameters via the digital display, making it suitable for those willing to spend more for a more customizable experience. However, its larger footprint and higher cost mean it might not be ideal for minimalists or budget-conscious buyers.
Pros:- Touchscreen interface for easy customization
- Automatic microfoam for barista-quality milk
- Integrated grinder for fresh grounds
- Fast heat-up with ThermoJet
Cons:- High price point
- Larger size requires ample counter space
- Some features may be unnecessary for casual users
Best for: Home users who want an easy-to-use machine with minimal manual effort and a modern interface.
Not ideal for: Budget buyers or those with limited space seeking a basic espresso maker.
- Material:Brushed Stainless Steel
- Power:1680 Watts
- Voltage:110-120V
- Water Tank Capacity:67 oz
- Bean Hopper Capacity:0.5 lbs
- Features:Touchscreen, automatic milk texturing, integrated grinder
Our verdict“Ideal for tech-savvy coffee lovers seeking a balance of automation and customization with a sleek interface.”
Breville BES870XL Barista Express Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Breville BES870XL stands out for combining a built-in conical burr grinder with precise temperature control, offering a complete espresso experience for home users. Its manual steam wand allows for microfoam milk texturing, essential for those wanting to craft barista-quality drinks. Compared with the Barista Pro, this model is slightly less advanced in interface but remains highly capable. The main tradeoff is its learning curve—beginners may find it daunting to master all functions. However, its compact design makes it suitable for smaller kitchens. This pick makes the most sense for dedicated coffee enthusiasts who want a hands-on, high-quality machine without the complexity of fully automatic options.
Pros:- Built-in conical burr grinder for fresh grounds
- Precise temperature regulation (PID) for optimal extraction
- Manual steam wand for microfoam milk texturing
- Compact, all-in-one design
Cons:- Steep learning curve for new users
- Higher price point compared to entry-level models
- Limited capacity for frequent large-volume brewing
Best for: Home baristas seeking a versatile, all-in-one espresso machine with manual control
Not ideal for: Beginners or those preferring push-button operation due to the learning curve
- 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“This machine is ideal for dedicated coffee lovers who want control and quality in a compact package.”
Breville BES876DBL Barista Express Impress, Damson Blue
The BES876DBL Barista Express Impress elevates home espresso with its built-in conical burr grinder and assisted tamping, making consistent extraction easier for users of varying skill levels. Its 25 grind settings and customizable parameters enable a truly personalized coffee experience. Compared with the Barista Touch, it lacks a touchscreen but offers similar manual control, appealing to those who prefer tactile adjustments. The main tradeoff is that its larger footprint and complex setup may challenge smaller kitchens or beginners. This machine is best suited for experienced enthusiasts who want precision and consistency with less manual effort, but not for someone wanting a fully automated, plug-and-play device.
Pros:- Integrated grinder with 25 adjustable settings
- Assisted tamping for consistent espresso puck preparation
- Powerful steam wand for microfoam and latte art
- Customizable brewing parameters
Cons:- Complex setup process can be intimidating for newcomers
- Larger size requires ample counter space
- Higher price compared to basic models
Best for: Coffee aficionados who value precision and enjoy customizing every shot
Not ideal for: Beginners or those with limited counter space due to its size and setup complexity
- 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 model suits experienced users who want control and consistency without sacrificing precision in a stylish design.”
Breville BES870BTR Barista Express Espresso Machine, Black Truffle
The BES870BTR maintains the core features of the original, with a built-in conical burr grinder and manual operation for espresso enthusiasts who prefer hands-on control. Its precise PID temperature regulation ensures consistent extraction, while the powerful steam wand offers good microfoam creation. Compared with the Barista Pro, its interface is more straightforward, appealing to those who want a classic experience. The main drawback is its relatively high price for a home machine, and the limited capacity makes it less ideal for multiple servings. This machine is best suited for purists who want traditional manual control but don’t need the advanced features of newer models.
Pros:- Built-in conical burr grinder for fresh grounds
- Precise temperature control (PID) for quality extraction
- Manual steam wand for milk microfoam
- Compact design suitable for smaller kitchens
Cons:- High price for a home espresso machine
- Steep learning curve for new users
- Limited capacity for large volumes
Best for: Home users who prioritize manual espresso making over digital interfaces
Not ideal for: Beginners or those looking for automatic convenience due to the learning curve
- 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“Ideal for traditionalists who want manual control over their espresso without extensive automation features.”
Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Barista Pro offers a significant upgrade with its ThermoJet rapid heating system that reaches optimal temperature in just 3 seconds, making it ideal for busy mornings. Its LCD interface provides real-time feedback and easy customization, appealing to users comfortable with digital controls. Compared with the Barista Express, it boasts faster heat-up times and an intuitive display for more precise adjustments. The tradeoff is its higher price and larger size, which might not suit smaller kitchens or budget-conscious buyers. This machine makes the most sense for those who want quick, consistent shots with minimal fuss and are comfortable with the interface.
Pros:- Fast heat-up with ThermoJet system
- LCD interface for easy adjustments and monitoring
- Precise temperature control for excellent extraction
- Built-in conical burr grinder with adjustable settings
Cons:- Higher price point
- Larger footprint may not fit small kitchens
- Complex interface could intimidate beginners
Best for: Home users who value speed, precision, and modern interfaces
Not ideal for: Beginners or those preferring manual control over automation due to the complex interface
- Capacity:1/2 lb Bean Hopper, 67 oz Water Tank
- Power:1680 Watts
- Heating System:ThermoJet
- Included Accessories:Single & Dual Wall Filter Baskets, Razor Dose Trimming Tool, Milk Jug, Cleaning Kit, Water Filter
- Warranty:2 Year Limited
Our verdict“Best suited for tech-savvy users who prioritize speed and consistency over manual control.”
Breville BES881BSS Barista Touch Impress, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Barista Touch Impress combines automation with customization features, featuring an auto steam wand and a touchscreen interface that guides users through each step. Its 13 preset drinks and ability to save up to 6 custom recipes make it highly adaptable for different preferences. Compared with the Barista Pro, it offers more step-by-step guidance, making it suitable for less experienced users. The main downside is its large size and higher price, which could be limiting for small kitchens or budget-conscious buyers. This machine is perfect for home baristas who want a blend of automation and personalization, especially those who enjoy experimenting with drinks.
Pros:- Auto steam wand for consistent microfoam
- Touchscreen with preset and customizable drinks
- Fast heating with ThermoJet system
- Assisted tamping and precise extraction
Cons:- Complex features may require a learning curve
- Premium price may be high for some buyers
- Large size may not fit small counters
Best for: Home users seeking an intuitive, customizable coffee experience with guided steps
Not ideal for: Purists who prefer manual control or those with limited space due to its size
- Material:Brushed Stainless Steel
- Heating System:ThermoJet
- Display:Touchscreen
- Presets:13 café favorites, up to 6 custom
- Milk Features:Auto MilQ, microfoam for latte art
Our verdict“Best suited for casual coffee lovers who want effortless customization and guidance with premium features.”
How We Picked
These products were selected based on a combination of performance, usability, build quality, and value. We prioritized models that offer reliable espresso extraction, consistent steaming, and user-friendly interfaces. Features like touchscreen controls and customization options weighed heavily, as they significantly impact the brewing experience. We also considered customer feedback and expert opinions to gauge durability and maintenance. The ranking reflects a balance between affordability and advanced features, making sure there’s a suitable choice for every type of coffee enthusiast.
| Breville | Included Accessories |
|---|---|
| Breville Bambino Plus Espresso | — |
| Breville BES880BTR Barista Tou | Various, including portafilter and milk jug |
| Breville Bambino Espresso Mach | Filter baskets, milk jug, portafilter |
| Breville BES876BSS Barista Exp | Portafilter, milk jug, filter baskets |
| Breville BES880BSS Barista Tou | — |
| Breville BES870XL Barista Expr | — |
| Breville BES876DBL Barista Exp | Stainless steel milk jug, filter baskets, water filter holder, trimming tool, cleaning tablets |
| Breville BES870BTR Barista Exp | — |
| Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro | Single & Dual Wall Filter Baskets, Razor Dose Trimming Tool, Milk Jug, Cleaning Kit, Water Filter |
| Breville BES881BSS Barista Tou | — |
Factors to Consider When Choosing Breville
Choosing the right Breville espresso machine involves more than just looking at features. Consider how much control you want over the brewing process, your budget, and how much space you have. Understanding these factors can help you avoid common pitfalls like overpaying for unnecessary features or buying a model that’s too complex for your skill level. Here are key considerations to keep in mind:Automation and Ease of Use
Some Breville models come with fully automated touchscreens, making brewing straightforward for beginners. Others provide more manual controls, which suit experienced users who want to fine-tune every shot. Decide whether you prefer a set-it-and-forget-it machine or one that allows for detailed customization. Keep in mind that highly automated machines might sacrifice some control, but they typically require less skill to operate effectively.
Build Quality and Durability
Look for models with sturdy construction and quality materials such as stainless steel. These tend to last longer and withstand regular use better. Cheaper plastics can save money upfront but may wear out faster or be more prone to malfunctions. It’s worth investing in a well-built machine if you plan to use it frequently or want a machine that stays looking good over time.
Steaming Power and Milk Frothing
If you enjoy milk-based drinks, consider the steam wand quality and power. Higher-end models typically offer more precise temperature control and steam pressure, resulting in better microfoam. However, more advanced steam wands often require some skill to master, so balance your comfort level with the machine’s capabilities. For casual use, a simpler wand might suffice, but enthusiasts should look for models with adjustable steam controls.
Size and Counter Space
Espresso machines vary significantly in size, from compact options to larger, feature-rich models. Measure your available space carefully to avoid buying a machine that’s too big or awkwardly shaped for your kitchen. Compact models like the Bambino Plus are ideal for small kitchens, but they may lack some advanced features. Conversely, larger models may offer more controls but require dedicated counter space.
Price and Value
While it can be tempting to buy the most feature-rich model, consider what you truly need. Sometimes, mid-range machines offer the best value by balancing features and cost. Be wary of overpaying for bells and whistles that won’t be used often, but also recognize that investing in a higher-quality machine can mean better espresso and longer-lasting performance. Clarify your priorities—whether it’s ease of use, customization, or durability—before making a decision.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I choose a fully automatic Breville machine or a semi-automatic?
Choosing between fully automatic and semi-automatic depends on your skill level and how much control you want. Fully automatic machines, like the Barista Touch, simplify brewing with one-touch operation, making them ideal for beginners who want good espresso without much fuss. Semi-automatic models, such as the Barista Express, give you more control over grind size and extraction, which appeals to enthusiasts willing to learn. Consider how much time you want to spend on brewing and whether you enjoy the craft aspect of espresso making.
Are more expensive Breville models worth the extra cost?
Higher-priced models typically offer advanced features like touchscreen controls, more powerful steam wands, and better build quality. If you’re a serious coffee lover or want a machine that can grow with your skills, these investments can be worthwhile. However, for casual users, mid-range models often provide excellent performance at a more accessible price. Weigh how much you value automation, customization, and durability before committing to a premium option.
Can I use pre-ground coffee with Breville machines?
Most Breville espresso machines are designed to work with freshly ground beans for best results, but many models include a bypass doser or allow for pre-ground use. If convenience is a priority, look for machines with this feature. Keep in mind that using pre-ground coffee can lead to inconsistent shots if not measured carefully, so investing in a good grinder is often recommended for optimal flavor and consistency.
How often do I need to descale a Breville espresso machine?
Descaling frequency depends on your water hardness and usage, but a general guideline is every 2-3 months. Regular descaling prevents mineral buildup, which can impair performance and longevity. Many Breville models have alerts to notify you when descaling is needed, making maintenance easier. Using filtered water can also extend the time between descaling sessions and preserve the machine’s internal components.
Is a steam wand necessary for good milk frothing?
While a steam wand isn’t strictly necessary, it offers greater control over milk texture and temperature, which is important for making latte art or creamy microfoam. Many higher-end models include adjustable wands that help achieve better consistency. However, some automatic milk frothers or simpler steam systems are sufficient for casual use. Consider how much you value craftsmanship in your milk drinks and choose accordingly.
Conclusion
For those new to espresso, the Breville Bambino Plus offers simplicity and solid performance at a friendly price. Coffee enthusiasts seeking a balance of control and automation should consider the Barista Touch, which combines ease of use with advanced features. Serious baristas or those who want a durable, professional-grade machine might prefer the Barista Pro or the Barista Express Impress for their build quality and customization options. Budget-conscious buyers should focus on models that deliver quality without unnecessary extras, while premium buyers can invest in machines that promise longevity and top-tier features. Your choice ultimately depends on your skill level, preferences, and how much you’re willing to invest in your coffee experience.
Fall Picks
fall essentials
As an affiliate, we earn on qualifying purchases.
