Breville is renowned for its high-quality espresso machines that cater to a wide range of coffee enthusiasts. The best overall pick, the Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro, offers a perfect balance of performance and ease of use. For those seeking a more advanced experience, the Breville BES881BSS Barista Touch Impress provides sophisticated features and customization. Budget-conscious buyers might prefer the Bambino models for their affordability without sacrificing quality. However, choosing the right Breville involves tradeoffs between price, features, and user experience. Continue reading for a detailed breakdown of each option to find your ideal machine.
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Key Takeaways
- The top-ranked Breville models combine user-friendly interfaces with professional-grade performance.
- Premium picks tend to offer more customization options and advanced features, justifying higher prices.
- Entry-level models like the Bambino are perfect for beginners but may lack some bells and whistles.
- Design options range from classic stainless steel to colorful finishes, catering to different aesthetics.
- Most models balance performance and value well, but paying more often yields better build quality and features.
| Breville BES881BSS Barista Touch Impress, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for Customization and Advanced Features | Material: Brushed Stainless Steel | Heating System: ThermoJet | Grinder: Baratza European precision conical burrs, 30 grind settings | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville Bambino Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for Small Spaces and Simplicity | Power: 1560 Watts | Voltage: 110-120 Volts | Included Accessories: 1 and 2 cup filter baskets, milk jug, portafilter, tamper, cleaning tool | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for Compact, Consistent Quality | Weight: Not specified | Power: 1560 Watts | Voltage: 110-120 Volts | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES880BSS Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for Full Semi-Automatic Home Baristas | Material: Brushed Stainless Steel | Power: 1680 Watts | Voltage: 110-120V | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES880BTR Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Black Truffle |  | Best for Premium Aesthetic and Advanced Customization | Power: 1680 Watts | Voltage: 110-120V | Water Tank Capacity: 67 oz | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best Overall for Precision and Speed | Capacity: 1/2 lb Bean Hopper, 67 oz Water Tank | Power: 1680 Watts | Voltage: 120 Volts | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES870XL Barista Express Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for Beginners Seeking All-in-One Functionality | Capacity: 1/2 lb Bean Hopper | Water Tank: 67 oz | Power: 1600 Watts | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES870BTR Barista Express Espresso Machine, Black Truffle |  | Best for Style-Conscious 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 | Water Tank: 2L | Grind Settings: 25 | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES876BSS Barista Express Impress, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for User-Friendly Professional Results | Capacity: 250g bean hopper | Water Tank: 2L | Grind Settings: 25 | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville | Power | Voltage | Included Accessories | Capacity |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Breville BES881BSS Barista Tou | — | — | — | — |
| Breville Bambino Espresso Mach | 1560 Watts | 110-120 Volts | 1 and 2 cup filter baskets, milk jug, portafilter, tamper, cleaning tool | — |
| Breville Bambino Plus Espresso | 1560 Watts | 110-120 Volts | — | — |
| Breville BES880BSS Barista Tou | 1680 Watts | 110-120V | Portafilter, filter baskets, milk jug, water filter, cleaning kit | — |
| Breville BES880BTR Barista Tou | 1680 Watts | 110-120V | 54mm portafilter, filters, milk jug, water filter | — |
| Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro | 1680 Watts | 120 Volts | 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 BES870XL Barista Expr | 1600 Watts | 120 Volts | — | 1/2 lb Bean Hopper |
| Breville BES870BTR Barista Exp | 1600 Watts | 120 Volts | — | 1/2 lb Bean Hopper |
| Breville BES876DBL Barista Exp | — | — | Milk jug, filter baskets, water filter holder, trimming tool, cleaning tablets | 250g bean hopper |
| Breville BES876BSS Barista Exp | — | — | 54mm stainless steel portafilter, filter baskets, water filter holder, trimming tool, cleaning tablets | 250g bean hopper |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Breville BES881BSS Barista Touch Impress, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Breville BES881BSS Barista Touch Impress stands out for its impressive array of customizable options, including milk and coffee presets, all accessible via a sleek touchscreen. Compared to the simpler Bambino models, it offers a more refined brewing experience with assisted tamping and precise extraction, making it ideal for enthusiasts who want control without sacrificing convenience. However, its complex features can present a learning curve, and the larger footprint demands ample countertop space. This model is perfect for experienced home baristas eager to fine-tune their drinks but less suited for those seeking straightforward, quick café-quality coffee.
Pros:- Customizable milk and coffee settings for personalized drinks
- Fast heating with ThermoJet system in just 3 seconds
- Intuitive touchscreen interface with preset options
Cons:- Complex features may require a learning curve for new users
- Premium price point could be high for some buyers
- Large size may require significant countertop space
Best for: Home baristas who want a versatile, feature-rich machine with customization options
Not ideal for: Casual users or those with limited space who prefer a straightforward, easy-to-use espresso maker
- Material:Brushed Stainless Steel
- Heating System:ThermoJet
- Grinder:Baratza European precision conical burrs, 30 grind settings
- Display:Touchscreen
- Presets:13 café favorites, customizable up to 6 drinks
- Milk Features:Auto MilQ with alternative milk settings, microfoam for latte art
Our verdict“This pick makes the most sense for experienced home baristas who value customization and advanced control over their coffee experience.”
Breville Bambino Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Breville Bambino offers a compact, straightforward design paired with fast ThermoJet heating, making it an excellent choice for those with limited kitchen space. Unlike the Barista Touch Impress, it lacks extensive customization but delivers consistent espresso thanks to precise temperature control and an automatic steam wand. It’s ideal for beginners or casual drinkers who want decent quality without the bells and whistles, but it may fall short for serious enthusiasts seeking extensive control or advanced features. Its smaller footprint and quick heat-up time make it a practical starter machine, though at a slightly higher price than some entry-level options.
Pros:- Fast heat-up time with ThermoJet system
- Automatic steam wand for microfoam milk
- Compact design suitable for small kitchens
Cons:- Limited to home use, not suitable for high-volume needs
- May require some trial to perfect espresso extraction
- Price may be high relative to basic models
Best for: Beginners and small kitchen owners seeking quick, reliable espresso with minimal fuss
Not ideal for: Experienced baristas or users wanting deep customization and advanced features
- Power:1560 Watts
- Voltage:110-120 Volts
- Included Accessories:1 and 2 cup filter baskets, milk jug, portafilter, tamper, cleaning tool
- Espresso Settings:1 or 2 Cups, Hot Water, Steam
- Warranty:1 Year Limited
Our verdict“This machine makes the most sense for new users in small spaces who prioritize speed and simplicity over extensive customization.”
Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Breville Bambino Plus is a step up in size and features, with automatic microfoam milk texturing and quick heat-up, making it ideal for those who want cafe-quality drinks without complexity. Compared to the Bambino, it offers a more reliable milk frothing process and slightly more consistent results, thanks to its pre-infusion system and automatic steam wand. It’s well-suited for users who seek ease of use combined with good performance but might not satisfy those wanting complete control or a larger capacity. Its compact size and speed make it a favorite for small kitchens, though the price and limited detailed specs may deter casual buyers.
Pros:- Compact size fits easily on countertops
- Fast heat-up with ThermoJet system
- Automatic steam wand for microfoam milk
Cons:- Price not specified, can be high for some
- No detailed weight info available
- Limited to 1-2 cup servings
Best for: Home users who want reliable, consistent espresso and microfoam without extensive fuss
Not ideal for: Enthusiasts seeking full manual control or larger batch capacity
- Weight:Not specified
- Power:1560 Watts
- Voltage:110-120 Volts
- Width:7.7 inches
- Water Pressure:Pre-infusion system
- Warranty:2 Years
Our verdict“This makes the most sense for users who want a small, efficient machine that consistently produces quality espresso and milk froth with minimal effort.”
Breville BES880BSS Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Breville BES880BSS Barista Touch combines semi-automatic control with an intuitive touchscreen interface, delivering a customizable experience that rivals many commercial machines. Its automatic microfoam wand and integrated grinder make it easier to produce café-quality drinks, especially compared to manual-only options like the Bambino series. However, its higher price and bulkier size can be a barrier for some, and the array of features might be overwhelming for newcomers. This machine suits those who want to experiment with different coffees and milk textures while maintaining some level of control, making it more suitable for serious hobbyists than casual drinkers.
Pros:- Automatic microfoam milk texturing for barista-quality drinks
- Touchscreen interface with customizable settings
- Integrated grinder ensures fresh grounds for each brew
- Fast heat-up with ThermoJet system
Cons:- High price point may be prohibitive
- Complex features could be intimidating for beginners
- Bulkier size demands more counter space
Best for: Home baristas who want a semi-automatic machine with automation and customization options
Not ideal for: Minimalists or those with limited space who prefer simple, straightforward machines
- Material:Brushed Stainless Steel
- Power:1680 Watts
- Voltage:110-120V
- Water Tank Capacity:67 oz
- Bean Hopper Capacity:0.5 lbs
- Included Accessories:Portafilter, filter baskets, milk jug, water filter, cleaning kit
Our verdict“This is ideal for dedicated home enthusiasts seeking a semi-automatic machine with smart features and customization, though it requires space and a higher budget.”
Breville BES880BTR Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Black Truffle
The Breville BES880BTR Barista Touch elevates the experience with its luxurious Black Truffle finish and a touchscreen interface that simplifies brewing for espresso aficionados. Like its stainless steel sibling, it features automatic microfoam texturing, precise dose grinding, and fast heat-up, making it suitable for serious home users who want both form and function. Compared to the standard model, the Black Truffle edition offers a more refined aesthetic but retains the same core features, including high price and some complexity in operation. It’s best suited for those who want a statement piece that also delivers professional-level coffee quality, though less ideal for budget-conscious buyers or those seeking minimal setup.
Pros:- Automatic microfoam for professional-quality drinks
- Touchscreen for easy operation and customization
- Fast heat-up with ThermoJet system
- Elegant Black Truffle finish adds luxury to any kitchen
Cons:- High price point limits accessibility
- Features may be complex for beginners
- Limited to 110-120V power supply
Best for: Espresso lovers seeking a stylish, high-end machine with advanced features and customization
Not ideal for: Casual users or those with limited space who prefer simple, plug-and-play devices
- Power:1680 Watts
- Voltage:110-120V
- Water Tank Capacity:67 oz
- Bean Hopper Capacity:0.5 lbs
- Included Accessories:54mm portafilter, filters, milk jug, water filter
- Warranty:2 Years
Our verdict“This makes the most sense for dedicated espresso enthusiasts who value style, automation, and customization over initial cost and simplicity.”
Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro stands out for its rapid ThermoJet heating system, reaching optimal temperature in just 3 seconds, making it ideal for those who want quick, cafe-quality espresso at home. Its precise temperature control ensures consistent extraction, a step above many entry-level models. The manual microfoam wand allows for latte art, appealing to users who enjoy creating visually stunning drinks. Compared to the Barista Express, this model offers faster heat-up and better temperature stability, but at a higher price and with a more complex interface, which might challenge beginners. Its size and weight could be a concern for small kitchens. Best for tech-savvy enthusiasts or busy mornings who need speed and precision without sacrificing quality.
Pros:- Fast heat-up time with ThermoJet system
- Precise temperature control for consistent espresso
- Manual microfoam wand for latte art
- Built-in grinder with adjustable settings
Cons:- Relatively high price point
- Complex interface may be challenging for beginners
- Large size may require significant counter space
Best for: Home baristas who prioritize speed, precision, and advanced features in a compact package
Not ideal for: Beginners who prefer simple setups or have limited counter space due to its larger footprint
- Capacity:1/2 lb Bean Hopper, 67 oz Water Tank
- Power:1680 Watts
- Voltage:120 Volts
- Included Accessories:Single & Dual Wall Filter Baskets, Razor Dose Trimming Tool, Milk Jug, Cleaning Kit, Water Filter
- Warranty:2 Year Limited
Our verdict“This machine is perfect for experienced enthusiasts seeking rapid, precise espresso with advanced steaming capabilities.”
Breville BES870XL Barista Express Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Barista Express is a solid choice for newcomers wanting a semi-automatic machine with built-in grinding and temperature control. Its integrated conical burr grinder ensures fresh grounds, though this feature can be overwhelming for those unfamiliar with espresso prep. The PID temperature regulation provides reliable extraction, comparable to more advanced machines like the Barista Pro, but its slower heat-up time means waiting longer before brewing. The manual steam wand is versatile but requires practice to master milk texturing. Its compact design makes it suitable for most kitchens, yet its learning curve might deter absolute beginners. Ideal for home users ready to learn espresso making without investing in professional equipment.
Pros:- Built-in conical burr grinder for fresh grounds
- Precise temperature regulation (PID)
- Manual steam wand for microfoam milk
- Compact, space-efficient design
Cons:- Learning curve for new users
- Relatively high price for its category
- Limited capacity for large-volume brewing
Best for: Beginners or casual home baristas wanting an all-in-one espresso setup
Not ideal for: Experienced users seeking rapid operation or advanced automation features
- 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 offers a comprehensive entry point into espresso making, balancing built-in features with a manageable setup for beginners.”
Breville BES870BTR Barista Express Espresso Machine, Black Truffle
The Black Truffle version of the Barista Express emphasizes aesthetics without sacrificing core features like a built-in grinder and PID temperature control. It’s comparable to the Brushed Stainless Steel but offers a more unique look that appeals to style-conscious buyers. Its compact form and powerful steam wand make it suitable for creating café-quality drinks at home, but it shares the same learning curve and capacity limitations. The design might appeal more to those who want a statement piece, but the higher price could be a barrier for budget-conscious buyers. Best suited for style-focused users who want performance wrapped in a sleek design.
Pros:- Elegant, stylish black truffle finish
- Built-in conical burr grinder
- PID temperature control for consistent espresso
- Powerful steam wand for milk texturing
Cons:- Higher price point than basic models
- Limited capacity for large volumes
- Same learning curve as other espresso machines
Best for: Home baristas who want an attractive machine with reliable espresso-making capabilities
Not ideal for: Users prioritizing maximum capacity or fast operation over aesthetics
- 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“This machine is perfect for style-conscious users seeking excellent espresso with a distinctive look.”
Breville BES876DBL Barista Express Impress, Damson Blue
The Barista Express Impress in Damson Blue elevates home espresso with its assisted tamping and intelligent dosing, making it ideal for those seeking consistency and control. Its integrated grinder with 25 adjustable settings rivals the Impress in Brushed Steel, but the standout feature is its automated tamping, which ensures uniform puck preparation—a common challenge for beginners. The powerful steam wand allows for excellent microfoam, supporting latte art. However, its larger size and complex setup can be intimidating for newcomers, and the higher price may be a consideration. Best for users wanting professional-level control with minimal effort and a bold color palette.
Pros:- Integrated grinder with 25 adjustable settings
- Assisted tamping for consistent puck prep
- Powerful steam wand for microfoam
- Customizable brewing parameters
Cons:- Complex setup for beginners
- Larger footprint requires ample space
- Higher price point
Best for: Coffee enthusiasts who want consistent results with assisted features and a stylish look
Not ideal for: Beginners who prefer simple machines or have limited space
- Capacity:250g bean hopper
- Water Tank:2L
- Grind Settings:25
- Portafilter Size:54mm
- Included Accessories:Milk jug, filter baskets, water filter holder, trimming tool, cleaning tablets
Our verdict“This espresso machine is ideal for those who value consistency and advanced features in a visually striking package.”
Breville BES876BSS Barista Express Impress, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Brushed Stainless Steel Barista Express Impress combines professional features like assisted tamping and an auto-correct dose with user-friendly controls, making it suitable for home users ready to upgrade their brewing skills. Its 25 adjustable grind settings provide fine control over flavor, while the assisted tamping ensures consistency—something often overlooked in home machines. The powerful steam wand allows for microfoam milk, perfect for latte art. The setup can be intimidating for absolute beginners, and its larger size may require dedicated counter space. Still, it offers a blend of performance and ease of use for more serious home baristas. Best for those wanting a semi-automatic with automation assistance that still offers manual control.
Pros:- Assisted tamping and auto dose correction
- 25 grind settings for flavor control
- Manual microfoam steam wand
- Durable stainless steel construction
Cons:- Complex setup for newcomers
- Higher price compared to basic models
- Size may limit placement options
Best for: Intermediate home baristas seeking a balance between automation and manual control
Not ideal for: Total beginners or those with limited space who prefer simpler plug-and-play options
- Capacity:250g bean hopper
- Water Tank:2L
- Grind Settings:25
- Included Accessories:54mm stainless steel portafilter, filter baskets, water filter holder, trimming tool, cleaning tablets
Our verdict“This machine offers professional features with ease of use, making it suitable for dedicated hobbyists who want automation without sacrificing control.”
How We Picked
I evaluated these Breville machines based on several key factors including brewing performance, build quality, ease of use, feature set, and value for money. I prioritized models that deliver consistent espresso quality with minimal hassle, while also considering maintenance and durability. The ranking reflects a balance between affordability and advanced capabilities, ensuring options for different skill levels and budgets. Each product was selected for its distinctive strengths, whether in usability, performance, or design, making this lineup a comprehensive guide for a variety of coffee lovers.Factors to Consider When Choosing Breville
Choosing a Breville espresso machine involves more than just looking at features. Consider your skill level, how much you’re willing to spend, and the kind of coffee experience you desire. Understanding these factors helps avoid common pitfalls like overpaying for unnecessary features or selecting a model that’s too complex. The following sections highlight key considerations to help you make an informed decision.Performance and Consistency
Look for machines that can produce consistent espresso shots with rich crema. Higher-end models often include PID temperature control, which stabilizes brewing temperature for better flavor extraction. Cheaper machines might struggle with temperature fluctuations, leading to inconsistent results. If you’re serious about coffee, investing in a machine with precise temperature and pressure control is worth the extra cost.
Ease of Use and Learning Curve
Some Breville models feature touchscreen interfaces and automatic settings, making them accessible for beginners. Conversely, more manual options provide greater control but require a learning curve. Consider whether you prefer a machine that simplifies the process or one that offers more room for experimentation. Balance your skill level with your willingness to learn to choose the right fit.
Build Quality and Durability
Stainless steel construction generally offers better longevity and resistance to wear compared to plastic accents. Cheaper models may use lighter materials, which could affect durability over time. If you plan to use your machine daily, investing in a sturdier build ensures longevity and better resale value.
Size and Aesthetics
Breville machines come in various sizes and finishes, from compact models to larger, more feature-rich options. Consider your kitchen space and decor style. A sleek, stainless steel finish suits modern kitchens, while colorful or matte finishes might better match personal tastes. Measure your space carefully to avoid overcrowding.
Additional Features and Accessories
Features like milk frothing, grinder integration, and programmable shots add convenience and versatility. Some models include accessories such as tampers, milk jugs, and cleaning kits. Decide which features are essential for your coffee routine, and beware of paying extra for bells and whistles that won’t be used regularly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a more expensive Breville machine worth the investment?
Higher-priced Breville models often offer more advanced features, better build quality, and greater control over brewing parameters. If you’re passionate about coffee and plan to use the machine frequently, investing in a premium model can yield better results and longer durability. However, for casual users, more affordable options like the Bambino still deliver satisfying espresso with less complexity.
Can I make milk-based drinks with entry-level Breville machines?
Yes, many entry-level models like the Bambino include steam wands capable of frothing milk for lattes and cappuccinos. These machines may require a bit more manual effort and practice to perfect your milk texture, but they are capable of producing high-quality milk-based drinks. If you want more automation or temperature stability, consider higher-end models with dedicated milk frothing features.
Are Breville espresso machines easy to clean and maintain?
Most Breville models are designed with user convenience in mind, featuring removable drip trays, water filters, and accessible brew groups. Regular cleaning of the portafilter, drip tray, and steam wand is essential for maintaining flavor and machine longevity. Some models include cleaning alerts or automated cleaning cycles, which simplify upkeep—though manual cleaning routines remain necessary for optimal performance.
What should I prioritize if I want a machine for casual use?
If you primarily want a straightforward, reliable espresso maker for occasional use, focus on models like the Bambino or Bambino Plus. These machines are compact, easy to operate, and provide good espresso quality without overwhelming features. They don’t require extensive maintenance or skill, making them ideal for casual coffee drinkers who still want a satisfying brew.
How important is the grinder feature in a Breville machine?
Built-in grinders can be a significant convenience, offering freshly ground beans for each shot. However, quality grinders add to the cost and complexity of the machine. If you already own a separate grinder or prefer pre-ground coffee, models without grinders may suffice. For espresso purists, a machine with a high-quality integrated grinder ensures freshness and flavor extraction, justifying the extra expense.
Conclusion
For dedicated espresso enthusiasts willing to invest in top-tier features and durability, the Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro stands out as the best overall choice. Beginners or casual drinkers will find the Breville Bambino Plus offers excellent value and simplicity. Those seeking a premium, feature-rich experience should consider the Barista Touch Impress, especially if customization matters. Finally, budget-conscious buyers can confidently choose entry-level models like the Bambino without sacrificing quality, making Breville accessible for a variety of needs and skill levels.
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