Breville is a leading name in home espresso machines, offering a range of options from beginner-friendly models to professional-grade equipment. The Breville BES870XL Barista Express often stands out as the best overall choice for its combination of features and value. Meanwhile, the Breville Barista Touch models shine for those wanting more automation and customization, but come at a higher price. The main tradeoffs in this category often involve balancing cost, ease of use, and features. Keep reading for a detailed breakdown of the top options and what makes each one unique.
Get kitchen gear delivered free with Prime
- Fast, free delivery on millions of items
- Prime Video, Amazon Music and more included
- Member-only deals all year
Complete the kit
Key Takeaways
- The best overall pick balances performance, durability, and ease of use, making it suitable for most users.
- Higher-end models like the Barista Touch offer advanced features but require a larger budget and a learning curve.
- Compact options such as the Bambino Plus are ideal for small kitchens but may lack some professional features.
- Price differences often reflect build quality, automation levels, and included accessories—more expensive isn’t always better for every user.
- Consistent performance across models is influenced by user skill, especially when dealing with manual espresso machines.
| Breville BES876DBL Barista Express Impress, Damson Blue |  | Best for Advanced Home Baristas Needing Customization | Capacity: 250g bean hopper, 2L water tank | Grind Settings: 25 | Portafilter Size: 54mm | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES876BSS Barista Express Impress, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for Those Who Value Professional Features in a User-Friendly Package | Capacity: 250g bean hopper, 2L water tank | Grind Settings: 25 | Included Accessories: 54mm stainless steel portafilter, 480ml 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 Wanting Fast, Customizable Drinks | Material: Brushed Stainless Steel | Power: 1680 Watts | Water Tank Capacity: 67 oz | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES870XL Barista Express Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for Traditionalists Seeking Manual Control | Capacity: 1/2 lb bean hopper | Water Tank: 67 oz | Power: 1600 Watts | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES880BTR Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Black Truffle |  | Best for Aesthetic Enthusiasts and Those Wanting Easy Operation | Power: 1680 Watts | Voltage: 110-120V | Water Tank Capacity: 67 oz | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville Bambino Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best Compact for Small Kitchens | Power: 1560 Watts | Voltage: 110-120 Volts | Included Accessories: 1 & 2 cup filter baskets, milk jug, portafilter, tamper, cleaning tool, descaling powder | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES881BSS Barista Touch Impress, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for Customization and Step-by-Step Guidance | Material: Brushed Stainless Steel | Heating System: ThermoJet | Grinder: Baratza conical burrs, 30 grind settings | 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 BES878BSS Barista Pro Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for Fast, Precise Extraction with a Digital Interface | Capacity: 1/2 lb Bean Hopper | Water Tank: 67 oz | Power: 1680 Watts | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best Compact with Automatic Milk Steaming | Power: 1560 Watts | Voltage: 110-120 Volts | Width: 7.7 inches | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville | Power | Capacity | Included Accessories |
|---|---|---|---|
| Breville BES876DBL Barista Exp | — | 250g bean hopper, 2L water tank | Stainless steel milk jug, filter baskets, water filter holder, trimming tool, cleaning tablets |
| Breville BES876BSS Barista Exp | — | 250g bean hopper, 2L water tank | 54mm stainless steel portafilter, 480ml milk jug, filter baskets, water filter holder, trimming tool, cleaning tablets |
| Breville BES880BSS Barista Tou | 1680 Watts | — | — |
| Breville BES870XL Barista Expr | 1600 Watts | 1/2 lb bean hopper | — |
| Breville BES880BTR Barista Tou | 1680 Watts | — | 54mm stainless steel portafilter, filters, milk jug, water filter, trimming tool, cleaning kit, test strip |
| Breville Bambino Espresso Mach | 1560 Watts | — | 1 & 2 cup filter baskets, milk jug, portafilter, tamper, cleaning tool, descaling powder |
| Breville BES881BSS Barista Tou | — | — | — |
| Breville BES870BTR Barista Exp | 1600 Watts | 1/2 lb Bean Hopper | — |
| Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro | 1680 Watts | 1/2 lb Bean Hopper | Water filter, cleaning kit |
| Breville Bambino Plus Espresso | 1560 Watts | — | — |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Breville BES876DBL Barista Express Impress, Damson Blue
This model stands out for its integrated grinder with 25 adjustable settings, which allows for precise control over coffee flavor and grind size. Its assisted tamping feature promotes consistency, making it easier to achieve professional-quality espresso without extensive barista skills. The powerful steam wand enables microfoam creation, perfect for latte art. Compared to the BES870XL, this machine offers more automation and customization, but its complex setup and larger size can be intimidating for newcomers. Its higher price reflects its feature set and build quality, making it suitable for dedicated coffee enthusiasts willing to invest time and space.
Pros:- Integrated conical burr grinder with 25 precise settings
- Assisted tamping for consistent puck preparation
- Powerful steam wand for microfoam and latte art
- Customizable brewing parameters
Cons:- Complex setup may challenge beginners
- Relatively large footprint demands ample counter space
- Higher price point compared to simpler models
Best for: Experienced home baristas who want detailed control over every brewing step
Not ideal for: Beginners or those with limited kitchen 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 machine suits serious espresso fans seeking maximum control and customization, despite its setup complexity.”
Breville BES876BSS Barista Express Impress, Brushed Stainless Steel
This version offers a polished stainless steel build combined with professional features like assisted tamping and an auto-correct dose system, making it more approachable than the BES880BSS. Its manual microfoam wand caters to those wanting more control over milk texturing, but it still includes helpful automation like the intelligent dosing system to streamline workflow. Compared to the BES880BSS, it sacrifices some touchscreen convenience for a more traditional interface, but retains similar core capabilities. Its high price and bulkier size mean it’s best suited for dedicated home baristas with ample space and a desire for café-quality drinks without full commercial equipment.
Pros:- Manual microfoam wand for latte art control
- Intelligent dosing system for consistency
- Includes free coffee beans with registration
- 25 grind settings for flavor customization
Cons:- Setup can be challenging for complete novices
- Relatively high cost and bulky size
- Complex features may require learning time
Best for: Home users who want professional-grade espresso with helpful automation features
Not ideal for: Complete beginners or those with limited counter space, due to its size and setup complexity
- Capacity:250g bean hopper, 2L water tank
- Grind Settings:25
- Included Accessories:54mm stainless steel portafilter, 480ml milk jug, filter baskets, water filter holder, trimming tool, cleaning tablets
- Features:Manual microfoam, intelligent dosing, auto-correct dose
Our verdict“Ideal for experienced coffee lovers seeking a balance of automation and manual control in a durable, high-performance machine.”
Breville BES880BSS Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
This pick makes the most sense for those who prioritize convenience combined with high-quality espresso, thanks to its touchscreen interface and automatic milk texturing. Its fast ThermoJet heating system allows for rapid heat-up, surpassing traditional machines like the BES870XL, which can take longer to reach temperature. The integrated grinder ensures fresh grounds for each shot, and the customizable settings via touchscreen streamline the brewing process. However, its high price and complex features may deter casual users or beginners unfamiliar with advanced coffee machines. Compared with the BES870XL, it offers more automation but at a significantly higher cost, making it ideal for dedicated enthusiasts who want a sleek, all-in-one experience.
Pros:- Automatic microfoam milk texturing for barista-quality drinks
- Touchscreen interface with customizable profiles
- Fast heat-up with ThermoJet technology
- Built-in grinder for fresh grounds
Cons:- High purchase price limits accessibility
- Learning curve for mastering all features
- Bulkier size requiring dedicated space
Best for: Tech-savvy coffee lovers who want quick, personalized, café-quality drinks at home
Not ideal for: Budget-conscious buyers or those new to espresso making, due to high price and feature complexity
- Material:Brushed Stainless Steel
- Power:1680 Watts
- Water Tank Capacity:67 oz
- Features:Touchscreen display, automatic milk texturing, integrated grinder
Our verdict“Best suited for technically inclined users seeking convenience and speed without sacrificing drink quality, despite its premium cost.”
Breville BES870XL Barista Express Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
This machine remains a favorite for those who prefer a more hands-on approach, featuring a built-in conical burr grinder and manual steam wand. Its PID temperature control ensures precise extraction, but it requires some skill to perfect the espresso and milk texturing. Compared with the newer BES880BSS, it lacks a touchscreen and automatic milk texturing, so it appeals to purists who enjoy manual adjustments. Its moderate price point and compact size make it accessible for home baristas still learning the craft, but the learning curve can be steep for complete beginners. The all-in-one design delivers quality results, though it demands more effort and attention to detail.
Pros:- Built-in conical burr grinder for fresh grounds
- PID temperature control for consistent extraction
- Manual steam wand for microfoam customization
- Compact design suitable for small kitchens
Cons:- Steep learning curve for beginners
- No touchscreen or automation for milk texturing
- Limited capacity for frequent large-volume brewing
Best for: Home baristas who want manual control and are willing to learn the craft of espresso making
Not ideal for: Casual users seeking quick, automated drinks or those with limited time to practice techniques
- Capacity:1/2 lb bean hopper
- Water Tank:67 oz
- Power:1600 Watts
- Included:Razor Dose Trimming Tool, 54mm Stainless Steel Portafilter, Milk Jug, Cleaning Supplies
Our verdict“Perfect for traditionalists eager to master manual espresso techniques at home, despite a steeper learning curve.”
Breville BES880BTR Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Black Truffle
This model makes a compelling case for users who value style alongside functionality, with its sleek Black Truffle finish and intuitive touchscreen interface. The automatic microfoam milk texturing and fast ThermoJet heat-up make it a convenient choice for daily use, and its customizable profiles allow for personalized drinks. Compared with the BES880BSS, it offers similar core features but with a distinct color option to match modern kitchens. Its high price and specialized power supply limit accessibility, but it delivers consistent, café-quality results effortlessly. This is a strong pick for those who want a visually appealing machine that simplifies coffee making without sacrificing quality.
Pros:- Automatic microfoam milk texturing for professional drinks
- Touchscreen interface with customizable profiles
- Fast heat-up via ThermoJet system
- Stylish Black Truffle finish
Cons:- High price point limits affordability
- Limited to 110-120V power supply
- Features may be complex for beginners
Best for: Design-conscious coffee lovers who want quick, consistent drinks with minimal effort
Not ideal for: Budget-sensitive buyers or those not comfortable with advanced features and touchscreen interfaces
- Power:1680 Watts
- Voltage:110-120V
- Water Tank Capacity:67 oz
- Included Accessories:54mm stainless steel portafilter, filters, milk jug, water filter, trimming tool, cleaning kit, test strip
Our verdict“Ideal for style-focused users seeking convenience and high-quality espresso with minimal manual effort, despite its premium price.”
Breville Bambino Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Breville Bambino stands out for its rapid ThermoJet heating system, allowing it to heat in just 3 seconds, which is notably faster than many competitors like the Breville Bambino Plus. Its automatic steam wand simplifies microfoam creation, making it a great choice for users who want café-quality drinks without fuss. However, its small size limits capacity and it’s primarily designed for home use, not high-volume environments. The high price tag might deter casual buyers, but for those with limited space and a desire for quick, quality espresso, this model offers a compelling balance of speed and convenience.
Pros:- Fast heat-up time with ThermoJet system
- Automatic steam wand for consistent microfoam
- Compact size ideal for small kitchens
Cons:- Limited capacity and features compared to larger models
- Higher price may be steep for casual users
Best for: Small apartment dwellers or those with limited countertop space who want a quick, reliable espresso machine.
Not ideal for: Users seeking a machine for frequent, high-volume brewing or commercial use, as it’s not built for heavy-duty demand.
- Power:1560 Watts
- Voltage:110-120 Volts
- Included Accessories:1 & 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“This machine is perfect for space-conscious home baristas who prioritize speed and quality in espresso brewing.”
Breville BES881BSS Barista Touch Impress, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Breville Barista Touch Impress excels in offering a highly personalized coffee experience with a touchscreen interface, 13 preset drinks, and adjustable milk and grind settings. Its auto steam wand with Micro-Froth technology simplifies milk texturing, rivaling the Bambino Plus’ ease but with far more drink customization. Compared to the Barista Express, it leans heavily toward user-friendly automation, which might be overwhelming for traditionalists or those on a strict budget. While the large size demands ample counter space, its versatility and guided experience make it ideal for home baristas eager to experiment or perfect their craft without extensive manual effort.
Pros:- Touchscreen interface with guided recipes
- Customizable milk and coffee profiles
- Fast ThermoJet heating in 3 seconds
Cons:- Complex features may require a learning curve
- Premium price point could be a barrier
- Large footprint requires significant counter space
Best for: Coffee enthusiasts who want a customizable experience with guided tutorials and a wide range of drink options.
Not ideal for: Beginners who prefer a more straightforward machine or users with limited space, since its size and complexity could be daunting.
- Material:Brushed Stainless Steel
- Heating System:ThermoJet
- Grinder:Baratza conical burrs, 30 grind settings
- Display:Touchscreen
- Presets:13 café favorites, customizable
- Milk Features:Auto MilQ, microfoam
Our verdict“This pick suits committed home baristas looking for a high level of personalization and ease of use, despite its higher cost and size.”
Breville BES870BTR Barista Express Espresso Machine, Black Truffle
The Breville Barista Express appeals to users who want hands-on control, with an integrated conical burr grinder and manual steam wand. Its combination of precise temperature control and built-in grinder makes it a solid choice for those seeking to craft espresso from fresh beans, a feature not available on the Breville Bambino. While it offers more control, it comes with a steeper learning curve, especially for newcomers unfamiliar with tamping and grind adjustment. Its capacity is suitable for small households but less so for large volumes. Compared to the Barista Pro, it lacks some of the advanced digital features but compensates with a more traditional, tactile experience.
Pros:- Built-in conical burr grinder for fresh grounds
- Precise PID temperature control
- Manual steam wand for microfoam milk
Cons:- Learning curve for tamping and grind setting
- Higher price for a home machine
- Limited capacity for frequent large servings
Best for: Home baristas who enjoy the manual process and want fresh grounds for each shot.
Not ideal for: Beginners or users who prefer a set-it-and-forget-it machine, as it requires skill and practice to perfect espresso shots.
- Capacity:1/2 lb Bean Hopper
- Water Tank:67 oz
- Power:1600 Watts
- Included:Tamper, milk jug, cleaning tools
Our verdict“This machine is ideal for those who enjoy a hands-on approach and want control over every step of espresso making, despite its learning curve.”
Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Breville Barista Pro offers a compelling balance of speed, precision, and technology, with a 3-second ThermoJet heating system and an intuitive LCD interface that guides users through extraction and steaming. Its built-in grinder with adjustable settings rivals the Barista Express, but with a more streamlined digital experience that appeals to both beginners and experienced users. It’s more expensive than the Express and requires more space, but the improved speed and digital controls justify the premium for many. Compared to the Bambino Plus, it provides more control and customization, making it a versatile choice for dedicated espresso lovers.
Pros:- Fast heat-up with ThermoJet system
- LCD interface with step-by-step guidance
- Adjustable grinder for personalized grind size
Cons:- Higher price point compared to simpler models
- Larger footprint may not suit small kitchens
- Complex interface might overwhelm some users
Best for: Enthusiastic home users who want quick, consistent results and enjoy digital interfaces for customization.
Not ideal for: Those with limited space or budget who prefer simpler, manual machines without digital controls.
- Capacity:1/2 lb Bean Hopper
- Water Tank:67 oz
- Power:1680 Watts
- Included Accessories:Water filter, cleaning kit
- Warranty:2 Year Limited
Our verdict“This machine is a smart choice for tech-savvy coffee lovers seeking rapid, precise espresso making with guided controls.”
Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Breville Bambino Plus is a favorite for its combination of compact size and automatic milk texturing, making it ideal for home users who want café-quality drinks without the complexity of manual steaming. Its quick heat-up with ThermoJet and automatic steam wand streamline the espresso and milk process, outperforming larger, more manual models like the Barista Express. The price is reasonable considering its feature set, but it lacks the customization options of higher-end machines like the Barista Pro. For those seeking a straightforward, space-saving espresso machine that produces consistent microfoam, the Bambino Plus offers excellent value.
Pros:- Compact size fits small kitchens
- Automatic steam wand for microfoam
- Fast heat-up with ThermoJet
Cons:- Limited customization compared to manual machines
- Price may be high relative to basic models
- No detailed weight info available
Best for: Home users who want a compact, easy-to-use espresso machine with automatic milk steaming.
Not ideal for: Advanced baristas or those who want complete manual control over extraction and milk texturing, as it prioritizes automation.
- 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 machine is perfect for space-conscious home baristas seeking consistent, easy espresso and milk drinks with minimal effort.”
How We Picked
Our selection process focused on evaluating each Breville machine based on performance, build quality, usability, and value for money. We prioritized models that deliver consistent espresso quality and ease of operation, whether manual or automated. Durability and customer feedback also played key roles, alongside features like steam wand performance and customization options. The ranking reflects a mix of affordability, advanced features, and suitability for different skill levels, ensuring there’s a top pick for every type of buyer.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Breville
Choosing the right Breville espresso machine involves understanding several key factors that impact your brewing experience. Beyond just price, consider how much control you want over the brewing process, your available space, and how often you’ll use the machine. Making the right choices here can prevent buyer’s remorse and ensure you enjoy your coffee daily.Performance and Espresso Quality
Look for machines with precise temperature control, consistent pressure, and good steam wand performance. Manual models require more skill but offer greater control, while automation simplifies the process but may limit customization. Consider your willingness to learn and your preference for hands-on brewing versus convenience.
Ease of Use and Automation
Entry-level models like the Bambino Plus are designed for quick, straightforward operation, making them ideal for beginners. More advanced options, such as the Barista Touch, offer touchscreen controls and programmable settings, which appeal to enthusiasts but add complexity. Balance your comfort level with your desire for features.
Build Quality and Durability
Materials matter—stainless steel machines tend to last longer and resist wear, especially with frequent use. Cheaper plastics might save money initially but can degrade quickly. Think about your long-term investment and how much maintenance you’re willing to perform.
Size and Kitchen Compatibility
Some models, like the Bambino series, are compact and perfect for small counters, but they might sacrifice features found in larger machines. Measure your space carefully and consider whether you want a sleek, minimalist design or a more substantial, feature-rich machine.
Price and Value for Money
Higher prices typically bring more automation, better build quality, and advanced features. However, more affordable models can still deliver excellent espresso if you know what to look for and are willing to put in some effort. Determine your budget upfront and decide which features are non-negotiable for your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it better to buy a manual or automatic Breville espresso machine?
The choice between manual and automatic depends on your skill level and how involved you want to be in brewing. Manual machines offer greater control and can produce superior espresso once mastered, but they require learning and practice. Automatics, like the Barista Touch, simplify the process with preset options, making them ideal for those who want quality with less effort. Consider your willingness to learn and how much you enjoy the craft of espresso making.
Are higher-priced Breville machines worth the investment?
More expensive Breville models generally feature better build quality, more automation, and additional customization options. If you brew daily or want a machine that can mimic professional results, spending more can be justified. However, for casual use or beginners, mid-range options like the Barista Express often provide excellent value without the steep price tag.
How important is a built-in grinder on a Breville espresso machine?
A built-in grinder ensures freshness and saves counter space, making it a key feature for many enthusiasts. It also simplifies the brewing process, reducing the number of steps needed. However, standalone grinders can sometimes provide more consistent results. Decide if integrated grinding convenience outweighs the flexibility of separate equipment in your setup.
Can I use ground coffee with Breville machines that have a grinder?
Most Breville machines with built-in grinders are designed primarily for freshly ground coffee, but many also accept pre-ground options. Check the specific model’s compatibility, as some are optimized for fresh grinding. Using pre-ground coffee can be convenient but may compromise freshness and flavor compared to freshly ground beans.
What features should I prioritize if I want a beginner-friendly Breville machine?
For beginners, focus on models with straightforward controls, automatic shot volume, and easy maintenance. Devices like the Bambino Plus or Bambino offer simple operation and quick heat-up times, reducing the learning curve. Avoid overly complex machines with extensive manual controls until you’re more confident in your skills.
Conclusion
For most home users seeking a reliable all-rounder, the Breville BES870XL Barista Express remains the best overall choice due to its balance of control, build quality, and affordability. Those wanting a premium experience with minimal effort should consider the Barista Touch series, though at a higher price. Beginners or those with limited space will benefit from the Bambino Plus, which offers great performance in a compact form. If you’re a coffee enthusiast willing to invest in durability and advanced features, higher-end models like the Barista Pro are worth the expense. Your ideal pick depends on your skill level, budget, and how involved you want your brewing process to be.
Halloween Picks
halloween
As an affiliate, we earn on qualifying purchases.
