Breville remains a leading name in home espresso machines, offering a range of models suited for different skill levels and preferences. The Breville BES880BSS Barista Touch stands out as the best overall for its combination of ease of use and advanced features. Meanwhile, the Bambino Plus offers a compact, budget-friendly option, and the Barista Pro delivers professional-grade performance for enthusiasts. Buyers often face tradeoffs between price, automation, and customization. Continue reading for a detailed breakdown of these models and how they compare.
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Key Takeaways
- The top-tier models like the Barista Touch and Barista Pro excel in automation and customization, but come with a higher price tag.
- Compact models such as the Bambino Plus are ideal for small kitchens but may lack advanced features found in larger, pricier options.
- Build quality and material choice significantly impact the longevity and aesthetic appeal of Breville machines.
- Ease of use varies widely; models with touchscreen interfaces tend to be more beginner-friendly, while manual options suit experienced users.
- Price points reflect differences in features, with premium models offering more control and convenience, yet still maintaining good value for dedicated espresso lovers.
| 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 BES880BSS Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for Ease and Customization in One | Material: Brushed Stainless Steel | Power: 1680 Watts | Voltage: 110-120V | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES876BSS Barista Express Impress, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for Professional Performance with User-Friendly Features | 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 Bambino Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best Compact for Small Spaces | Power: 1560 Watts | Voltage: 110-120V | Included Accessories: 1 & 2 cup filter baskets, milk jug, portafilter, tamper, cleaning tool, descaling powder | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for Speed and Precision | 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 for Small Spaces | Weight: Not specified | Power: 1560 Watts | Voltage: 110-120 Volts | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES876DBL Barista Express Impress, Damson Blue |  | Best for Personalization and Professional Control | Capacity: 250g bean hopper, 2L water tank | Grind Settings: 25 | Portafilter Size: 54mm | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES881BSS Barista Touch Impress, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for User-Friendly Customization and Convenience | Material: Brushed Stainless Steel | Heating System: ThermoJet | Grinder: Baratza European conical burrs, 30 grind settings | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES870BTR Barista Express Espresso Machine, Black Truffle |  | Best Manual Control for Traditionalists | 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 Automated Precision and Third-Wave Coffee | Power: 1680 Watts | Voltage: 110-120V | Water Tank Capacity: 67 oz | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville | Power | Voltage | Capacity | Included Accessories |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Breville BES870XL Barista Expr | 1600 Watts | 120 Volts | 1/2 lb Bean Hopper | — |
| Breville BES880BSS Barista Tou | 1680 Watts | 110-120V | — | — |
| 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 Bambino Espresso Mach | 1560 Watts | 110-120V | — | 1 & 2 cup filter baskets, milk jug, portafilter, tamper, cleaning tool, descaling powder |
| Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro | 1680 Watts | 120 Volts | 1/2 lb Bean Hopper | Single & Dual Wall Filter Baskets, Razor Dose Trimming Tool, Milk Jug, Cleaning Kit, Water Filter |
| Breville Bambino Plus Espresso | 1560 Watts | 110-120 Volts | — | — |
| Breville BES876DBL Barista Exp | — | — | 250g bean hopper, 2L water tank | Stainless steel milk jug, filter baskets, water filter holder, trimming tool, cleaning tablets |
| Breville BES881BSS Barista Tou | — | — | — | — |
| Breville BES870BTR Barista Exp | 1600 Watts | 120 Volts | 1/2 lb Bean Hopper | — |
| Breville BES880BTR Barista Tou | 1680 Watts | 110-120V | — | Portafilter, filters, milk jug, water filter, trimming tool, cleaning kit |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Breville BES870XL Barista Express Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Breville BES870XL stands out as the most versatile choice, combining an integrated conical burr grinder with precise PID temperature control, making it ideal for those seeking a true semi-automatic experience. Compared with the Breville Bambino, it offers more control and customization, but at a higher price and a steeper learning curve. Its compact design suits regular home use, though the limited capacity may be a drawback for frequent large-batch brewing. The manual steam wand provides excellent microfoam, essential for latte art, but requires some practice to master. This model is best suited for dedicated home baristas willing to invest time in perfecting their craft.
Pros:- Built-in conical burr grinder for fresh grounds
- Precise PID temperature regulation for optimal extraction
- Manual steam wand for microfoam milk texturing
Cons:- Learning curve can be steep for beginners
- Higher price point compared to basic machines
- Limited capacity for frequent large-volume brewing
Best for: Home coffee enthusiasts who want a flexible, all-in-one espresso machine with control over every shot.
Not ideal for: Casual users or those with limited space who prefer simple, push-button operation without much fuss.
- 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 is a great pick for serious home baristas who value control and quality over simplicity.”
Breville BES880BSS Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Breville BES880BSS Barista Touch offers a user-friendly experience with its touchscreen interface, automatic milk texturing, and integrated grinder, making it highly appealing for those who want café-quality drinks with minimal effort. It provides more automation than the Barista Express, especially with its automatic milk frothing, but this comes at a higher cost and increased size, which might not suit small kitchens. Its fast heat-up via ThermoJet and customizable settings make it ideal for busy mornings, yet the complexity of features can intimidate complete beginners. If you value convenience combined with quality, this model balances both well, though it sacrifices some control for automation.
Pros:- Automatic microfoam milk texturing for barista-quality drinks
- Touchscreen interface with customizable options
- Fast heat-up time with ThermoJet system
Cons:- High price point may deter casual users
- Complex features require some learning curve
- Bulkier size demands more counter space
Best for: Home users seeking a semi-automatic machine with quick setup and customizable drink options.
Not ideal for: Budget-conscious buyers or those who prefer a straightforward, manual espresso process without touchscreen interfaces.
- Material:Brushed Stainless Steel
- Power:1680 Watts
- Voltage:110-120V
- Water Tank Capacity:67 oz
- Bean Hopper Capacity:0.5 lbs
- Features:Touchscreen display, programmable coffee settings, automatic milk texturing, integrated grinder, water filter
Our verdict“Ideal for modern home baristas who prioritize speed and convenience without sacrificing quality.”
Breville BES876BSS Barista Express Impress, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Barista Express Impress combines professional-grade features with user-friendly automation, making it suitable for those who want high-quality espresso and milk drinks without complex manual steps. Its assisted tamping and auto-correct dose simplify the process, setting it apart from the more manual Barista Express. With a 25-setting conical burr grinder and PID temperature control, it ensures flavor-rich shots, yet the setup can be intimidating for complete beginners, and its larger footprint may be a concern for limited counter space. This model offers a balance of performance and ease, but at a premium price and with some feature complexity.
Pros:- Professional-quality espresso and milk frothing
- Assisted tamping and auto dosing for consistency
- 25 grind settings for flavor customization
Cons:- Complex setup may challenge complete beginners
- Relatively high price
- Bulkier size requires dedicated space
Best for: Home baristas who desire café-quality espresso with some automation to streamline their routine.
Not ideal for: Absolute beginners or those with very limited kitchen space, due to its setup complexity and size.
- 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, assisted tamping, PID temperature control, hot water function
Our verdict“This machine offers a compelling mix of performance and ease for experienced home baristas willing to pay a premium.”
Breville Bambino Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Bambino is designed for those who want a quick, space-efficient espresso solution. Its fast ThermoJet heating system means it’s ready in about three seconds, making it ideal for mornings when speed matters. The automatic steam wand simplifies milk texturing, aligning it with the Breville Bambino Plus but at a more accessible price point. However, its limited capacity and simpler features mean it lacks the customization options of larger models like the Barista Pro. While its compact size makes it perfect for small kitchens, some users might find the tradeoff in control and versatility restrictive for daily use.
Pros:- Rapid heat-up with ThermoJet system
- Automatic steam wand for microfoam milk
- Compact design fits small kitchens
Cons:- Limited to basic espresso functions
- May require practice for perfect extraction
- Price may feel high for casual users
Best for: Individuals with limited counter space who want fast, straightforward espresso making.
Not ideal for: Experienced baristas or enthusiasts seeking advanced customization and manual control.
- Power:1560 Watts
- Voltage:110-120V
- 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“Perfect for small kitchens and busy mornings, but less suited for those wanting detailed control.”
Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Barista Pro emphasizes rapid performance with its ThermoJet heating system that reaches optimal temperature in just 3 seconds, making it ideal for those who want quick results without sacrificing quality. The built-in grinder with adjustable settings and the intuitive LCD display provide a more streamlined experience compared to the Barista Express. Its manual microfoam wand supports latte art, but its size and higher price might deter those with limited space or tighter budgets. This model is perfect for users who value speed, precision, and an integrated grinding experience but are comfortable with a slightly more complex interface.
Pros:- Fast heat-up via ThermoJet system
- Precise temperature control
- Built-in grinder with adjustable settings
Cons:- Relatively high price
- Complex interface may challenge absolute beginners
- Larger size demands ample counter space
Best for: Home users who want rapid, high-quality espresso with minimal fuss and adjustable control.
Not ideal for: Beginners or users with limited space seeking simpler, more straightforward machines.
- Capacity:1/2 lb Bean Hopper
- Water Tank:67 oz
- Power:1680 Watts
- Voltage:120 Volts
- Included Accessories:Single & Dual Wall Filter Baskets, Razor Dose Trimming Tool, Milk Jug, Cleaning Kit, Water Filter
Our verdict“Ideal for fast-paced home baristas who want quick, high-quality espresso with integrated grinding.”
Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
This machine stands out for its compact size, making it ideal for kitchens with limited counter space. Its fast heat-up with the ThermoJet system and automatic steam wand simplify the process of creating microfoam, making it accessible for home baristas who want quick, quality espresso. Compared with larger, more feature-rich options like the Breville Barista Touch, the Bambino Plus sacrifices advanced customization but excels in convenience and speed. Its precise temperature control ensures balanced extractions, though the lack of detailed weight data and higher price may deter budget-conscious buyers. Overall, this pick makes the most sense for small kitchens or users prioritizing speed and simplicity.
Pros:- Compact size fits easily on small countertops
- Fast heat-up with ThermoJet technology
- Automatic steam wand for consistent microfoam
Cons:- Price is not specified, potentially high for some buyers
- Lack of detailed weight information may affect portability considerations
Best for: Apartment dwellers or those with tiny kitchens who need a quick, space-saving espresso solution
Not ideal for: Serious coffee enthusiasts seeking extensive customization or larger capacity machines
- 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 a smart choice for space-constrained users wanting quick, quality espresso without fuss.”
Breville BES876DBL Barista Express Impress, Damson Blue
The Barista Express Impress combines a built-in conical burr grinder with assisted tamping, offering a semi-automatic experience that appeals to users wanting more control. Its 25 grind settings and customizable brewing parameters allow for tailored coffee profiles, making it suitable for enthusiasts who want to refine their craft beyond basic espresso. Unlike the simpler Bambino Plus, this machine emphasizes precision and professional features, but its larger footprint and complex setup may challenge beginners. The integrated grinder is a major advantage over models without one, though the higher price point reflects its advanced capabilities. This model makes the most sense for those who value control and are willing to navigate a steeper learning curve.
Pros:- Integrated grinder with 25 adjustable settings
- Assisted tamping for consistent puck preparation
- Large water tank (2L) and detailed customization options
Cons:- Setup can be complex for newcomers
- Relatively large size requiring ample counter space
- Higher price compared to basic espresso machines
Best for: Home baristas seeking a customizable, semi-automatic machine with integrated grinding
Not ideal for: Beginners or users with limited space who prefer straightforward operation
- 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 is ideal for coffee enthusiasts who want a semi-automatic machine with professional features and are comfortable with a learning curve.”
Breville BES881BSS Barista Touch Impress, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Barista Touch Impress is designed for those who want to craft café-quality drinks with minimal fuss. Its touchscreen interface guides users through each step, and the auto steam wand handles microfoam with ease, making it a step up from manual models like the BES870BTR. The 13 presets plus customizable options offer a personalized experience, ideal for owners who enjoy experimenting without extensive learning. However, its advanced features come with a significant price tag and a sizable footprint, which may be cumbersome for smaller kitchens. Compared to the BES880BTR, it offers more intuitive operation but at a higher cost. This pick is perfect for home baristas who want a blend of automation and customization.
Pros:- Touchscreen interface with preset and customizable drinks
- Automatic microfoam milk texturing
- Fast heat-up with ThermoJet system
Cons:- High price point may be prohibitive
- Features may require a learning curve for some users
- Large size could be an issue in small kitchens
Best for: Coffee lovers who want an easy-to-use, touchscreen interface with auto milk texturing
Not ideal for: Budget-conscious buyers or those with limited space seeking a basic espresso machine
- Material:Brushed Stainless Steel
- Heating System:ThermoJet
- Grinder:Baratza European conical burrs, 30 grind settings
- Display:Touchscreen
- Presets:13 café favorites, customizable
- Milk Features:Auto MilQ with alternative milk settings
Our verdict“This machine suits those seeking a high-tech, user-friendly experience with professional-quality milk frothing.”
Breville BES870BTR Barista Express Espresso Machine, Black Truffle
The Barista Express offers a manual, hands-on experience that appeals to those who want to perfect their craft. Its built-in conical burr grinder and PID temperature control produce fresh grounds and consistent extraction. It’s more approachable than the higher-end BES876BSS but still demands some learning, especially for beginners unfamiliar with espresso techniques. Its 67 oz water tank and 1/2 lb bean capacity make it suitable for daily use, but the manual operation means more effort and skill are required. Compared to the more automated BES880BTR, this model offers greater control but with less convenience. This machine is best for traditionalists who enjoy manual espresso making and don’t mind a learning curve.
Pros:- Built-in conical burr grinder for freshness
- Precise PID temperature control for consistency
- Powerful steam wand for manual microfoam
Cons:- Higher price for a home machine with manual features
- Steeper learning curve for beginners
- Limited capacity for frequent large servings
Best for: Home baristas wanting manual control and fresh grinding in a compact form
Not ideal for: Casual users or those seeking simplicity and automation
- Capacity:1/2 lb Bean Hopper
- Water Tank:67 oz
- Power:1600 Watts
- Voltage:120 Volts
- Included:Razor Dose trimming tool, portafilter, filter baskets, coffee scoop, tamper, milk jug
Our verdict“Ideal for traditionalists who value manual control and fresh grounds, willing to learn the craft.”
Breville BES880BTR Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Black Truffle
The BES880BTR offers a step toward fully automated espresso making with its touchscreen interface and automatic microfoam milk texturing. It builds on the success of the BES870BTR by providing even more customization options and third-wave brewing features, making it appealing to dedicated coffee connoisseurs. Its fast heat-up with ThermoJet and 67 oz water capacity add to its convenience. Compared to the BES881BSS, the BES880BTR emphasizes manual control less, focusing on automation and consistency. Its high price and complex features may be overwhelming for casual users, but it’s well-suited for those who want professional-level drinks at home with minimal effort. This model is perfect for enthusiasts who desire precision and automation in their daily brew.
Pros:- Automatic microfoam for barista-quality drinks
- Touchscreen interface with customizable presets
- Fast heat-up with ThermoJet system
Cons:- High price may limit accessibility
- Features can be complex for new users
- Limited to 110-120V power supply
Best for: Coffee enthusiasts seeking third-wave quality with automated features and consistent results
Not ideal for: Budget buyers or those preferring manual control over espresso craft
- Power:1680 Watts
- Voltage:110-120V
- Water Tank Capacity:67 oz
- Bean Hopper Capacity:0.5 lbs
- Included Accessories:Portafilter, filters, milk jug, water filter, trimming tool, cleaning kit
- Warranty:2 Years
Our verdict“This is a solid pick for those wanting automated precision and third-wave brewing at home, despite its premium cost.”
How We Picked
To determine the best Breville machines, I focused on performance, usability, build quality, and value. I evaluated each model’s espresso quality, consistency, and speed, alongside features like automation, customization options, and user interface. Maintenance ease and customer reviews also influenced the rankings, as did overall versatility for different skill levels. This approach ensures the list highlights options that balance quality, convenience, and price, helping buyers find the best fit for their needs.Factors to Consider When Choosing Breville
Choosing the right Breville espresso machine depends on your skill level, how much automation you prefer, and your budget. Beyond features, consider how the machine fits your kitchen space, ease of maintenance, and whether you prioritize quick operation over customization. The following factors will help clarify what to look for when selecting a Breville model:Ease of Use and Automation
Breville offers models ranging from fully manual to highly automated, touchscreen-enabled machines. If you’re new to espresso making, opt for models with intuitive controls, presets, and guided interfaces. More experienced users might prefer manual or semi-automatic machines that allow greater control over extraction. Remember, higher automation often means a higher price, but it can significantly reduce the learning curve and setup time.
Size and Kitchen Fit
Espresso machines vary significantly in footprint. Compact options like the Bambino Plus are great for small kitchens or limited counter space, while larger models like the Barista Touch or Pro may require more room. Consider your available space carefully, as some high-end models are bulkier but also offer more features. Also, check if the machine’s dimensions fit comfortably where you plan to place it.
Build Quality and Durability
Material choices such as stainless steel versus plastic impact not only aesthetics but also longevity. Premium models tend to feature more durable components and better heat stability, which translates into more consistent espresso shots over time. Investing in a well-built machine can save money in repairs or replacements, especially if you plan to use it daily.
Features and Customization
Look for features like PID temperature control, pressure profiling, and steam wand quality. These allow for more precise brewing and milk frothing, which are critical for espresso quality. However, more features mean more complexity; decide if you want a straightforward machine or one that supports advanced customization, depending on your skill and interest level.
Price and Value
While higher-priced models often offer more features and better build, they are not always necessary for casual users. Consider how much you’re willing to invest and what features matter most to you. Sometimes, a mid-range machine provides excellent value, offering good performance without the premium price tag.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make professional-quality espresso at home with a Breville machine?
Yes, many Breville models are designed to deliver café-quality espresso, especially those with features like PID temperature control, pressure profiling, and high-quality steam wands. While some manual control is required, the advanced features in higher-end models help replicate professional results. Keep in mind that mastering espresso extraction still depends on technique, but a good Breville machine provides a solid foundation.
Are Breville espresso machines easy to maintain?
Most Breville models are designed with user-friendly maintenance in mind, featuring removable drip trays, water filters, and easy access to brew components. Automated cleaning cycles are available on some models, reducing the effort needed to keep the machine in top condition. Regular descaling and cleaning are essential for longevity, but overall, Breville machines are considered manageable for home use.
How important is the steam wand quality for milk frothing?
The steam wand’s design and power directly impact frothing quality. Higher-end Breville models like the Barista Pro and Touch feature powerful, adjustable steam wands that produce velvety microfoam, crucial for lattes and cappuccinos. Cheaper models may have less responsive wands, making it harder to achieve professional milk textures. If milk-based drinks are a priority, investing in a machine with a robust steam wand is well worth it.
Is it worth paying extra for touchscreen controls?
Touchscreen interfaces significantly enhance ease of use, offering intuitive presets and guided brewing steps that reduce guesswork. They are particularly beneficial for beginners or those who appreciate quick adjustments. However, touchscreen models tend to be more expensive and may require more delicate handling. If straightforward controls suffice, simpler dials and buttons can save money without sacrificing performance.
Should I prioritize automatic or manual machines?
Automatic machines simplify the brewing process with preset options, making them ideal for busy mornings or less experienced users. Manual machines, on the other hand, offer greater control over extraction variables, appealing to enthusiasts eager to fine-tune their espresso. Your choice depends on your skill level, interest in learning the craft, and how involved you want the brewing process to be.
Conclusion
For those seeking the best overall experience, the Breville Barista Touch strikes a balance between automation and control, suitable for most users. Budget-conscious buyers or those with limited space will appreciate the Bambino Plus, offering solid performance at a lower price. Serious espresso enthusiasts should consider the Barista Pro for its professional features, while newcomers will benefit from models with straightforward interfaces. Ultimately, your choice should align with your skill level, space, and how much you’re willing to invest in quality coffee at home.
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