Breville stands out for its blend of innovation, build quality, and user-friendly features in the espresso machine market. The Breville BES880BSS Barista Touch earns the top spot for its intuitive interface and customizable brewing options, making it ideal for serious home baristas. Meanwhile, the Breville Bambino Plus offers excellent value and simplicity for newcomers, while the Barista Pro balances speed with professional-grade results. The main tradeoffs across this lineup involve balancing price against advanced features, with more premium models offering greater control but at a higher cost. Continue reading for a detailed breakdown of these options and what suits your needs best.
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Key Takeaways
- The top-tier models like the BES880BSS excel in automation and customization, ideal for experienced users.
- The Bambino Plus provides excellent value for those new to espresso making, prioritizing ease of use over advanced features.
- Design and build quality remain consistent across models, with brushed stainless steel offering durability and style.
- Price varies significantly, with premium models adding features like touchscreen controls and faster heat-up times.
- Choosing the right Breville depends heavily on your skill level, desired features, and budget.
| Breville BES880BSS Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best Overall | 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 Customization | Power: 1680 Watts | Voltage: 110 to 120V | Water Tank Capacity: 67 oz | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES876DBL Barista Express Impress, Damson Blue |  | Best for Precision and Custom Control | Capacity: 250g bean hopper, 2L water tank | Grind Settings: 25 | Portafilter Size: 54mm | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best Compact Choice | Weight: Not specified | Power: 1560 Watts | Voltage: 110-120V | 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, 67 oz Water Tank | Power: 1680 Watts | Voltage: 120 Volts | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| 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 BES870BTR Barista Express Espresso Machine, Black Truffle |  | Best for Manual Control and Authentic Espresso | Capacity: 1/2 lb Bean Hopper | Water Tank: 67 oz | Power: 1600 Watts | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville Bambino Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for Small Spaces and Quick Results | Power: 1560 Watts | Voltage: 110-120 Volts | Included Accessories: Milk jug, portafilter, cleaning tools | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES870XL Barista Express Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for Beginners and Versatile Home Use | Capacity: 1/2 lb Bean Hopper | Water Tank: 67 oz | Power: 1600 Watts | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES876BSS Barista Express Impress, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for User-Friendly Professional-Quality Coffee | Capacity: 250g bean hopper | Water Tank: 2L | Grind Settings: 25 | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville | Power | Included Accessories | Voltage | Capacity |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Breville BES880BSS Barista Tou | 1680 Watts | Portafilter, filter baskets, milk jug, water filter, trimming tool, cleaning kit, test strip | 110-120V | — |
| Breville BES880BTR Barista Tou | 1680 Watts | 54mm stainless steel portafilter, filters, milk jug, water filter, trimming tool, cleaning kit, test strip | 110 to 120V | — |
| Breville BES876DBL Barista Exp | — | Stainless steel milk jug, filter baskets, water filter holder, trimming tool, cleaning tablets | — | 250g bean hopper, 2L water tank |
| Breville Bambino Plus Espresso | 1560 Watts | — | 110-120V | — |
| Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro | 1680 Watts | Single & Dual Wall Filter Baskets, Razor Dose Trimming Tool, Milk Jug, Cleaning Kit | 120 Volts | 1/2 lb Bean Hopper, 67 oz Water Tank |
| Breville BES881BSS Barista Tou | — | — | — | — |
| Breville BES870BTR Barista Exp | 1600 Watts | — | — | 1/2 lb Bean Hopper |
| Breville Bambino Espresso Mach | 1560 Watts | Milk jug, portafilter, cleaning tools | 110-120 Volts | — |
| Breville BES870XL Barista Expr | 1600 Watts | — | — | 1/2 lb Bean Hopper |
| Breville BES876BSS Barista Exp | — | 54mm portafilter, milk jug, cleaning tablets | — | 250g bean hopper |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Breville BES880BSS Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
This model stands out for combining professional-grade features with user-friendly technology, making it a top choice for dedicated home baristas. The automatic microfoam milk texturing and touchscreen interface elevate the brewing experience, rivaling commercial machines but with more convenience. Compared to the Breville BES876DBL, it offers a sleek, intuitive interface but at a higher price and with a bulkier footprint. Its fast ThermoJet heating system ensures quick operation, a significant advantage over semi-automatic models that require more setup time. The integrated grinder guarantees fresh grounds, which impacts flavor quality positively. However, the machine’s size and complexity may intimidate beginners, and its cost could be prohibitive for casual users.
Pros:- Automatic microfoam milk texturing produces cafe-quality drinks
- Touchscreen interface simplifies complex settings
- Fast heat-up with ThermoJet system
Cons:- High price may limit accessibility for some
- Bulky size requires ample counter space
- Learning curve for beginners
Best for: Serious coffee enthusiasts who want professional results at home without manual grinding or tamping.
Not ideal for: Casual users or those with limited counter space who prefer simpler, more affordable options.
- 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
- Included Accessories:Portafilter, filter baskets, milk jug, water filter, trimming tool, cleaning kit, test strip
- Warranty:2 Years Limited
Our verdict“This machine is ideal for dedicated home baristas seeking professional features with intuitive controls, despite its cost and size.”
Breville BES880BTR Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Black Truffle
The Black Truffle version offers the same core features as the BES880BSS but caters to those who value aesthetic appeal alongside performance. Its touchscreen interface and automatic microfoam system make brewing straightforward, aligning with the needs of espresso aficionados who appreciate personalization. Like the BES880BSS, it boasts rapid heat-up via ThermoJet, but its distinctive color and finish give it a more luxurious look. Compared to the BES876DBL, it offers similar customization options, yet its limited voltage range (110-120V) may restrict use outside North America. This pick excels for users who want a blend of style and function but might be less appealing for those seeking the most budget-friendly options.
Pros:- Aesthetic design with premium finish
- Touchscreen interface for easy operation
- Fast heat-up with ThermoJet system
Cons:- Limited to 110-120V power supply
- High cost similar to other premium models
- Complex features could challenge beginners
Best for: Home baristas who want a stylish machine with customizable brewing and aesthetic appeal.
Not ideal for: International buyers needing higher voltage compatibility or those on a tight budget.
- Power:1680 Watts
- Voltage:110 to 120V
- Water Tank Capacity:67 oz
- Bean Hopper Capacity:0.5 lbs
- Included Accessories:54mm stainless steel portafilter, filters, milk jug, water filter, trimming tool, cleaning kit, test strip
- Warranty:2 Years
Our verdict“Ideal for style-conscious espresso lovers who want fast, customizable brewing in a sleek package, despite voltage limitations.”
Breville BES876DBL Barista Express Impress, Damson Blue
The Barista Express Impress in Damson Blue combines automation with precision control, making it well-suited for users who want a semi-automatic experience with added conveniences. The built-in conical burr grinder with 25 adjustable settings allows for precise control over grind size, surpassing models like the Bambino Plus that lack grinder integration. Its assisted tamping feature helps ensure consistent puck preparation, a step up from manual tamping but still requiring some user input. While it offers a powerful steam wand for microfoam, its relatively larger size and complex setup may intimidate beginners. Compared to the more streamlined Bambino Plus, it offers more control but at a higher price and complexity.
Pros:- Integrated grinder with 25 adjustable settings
- Assisted tamping for consistent espresso pucks
- Powerful steam wand for microfoam
Cons:- Complex setup may challenge beginners
- Larger footprint requires more counter space
- Higher price compared to basic machines
Best for: Home baristas who want to fine-tune their espresso and milk frothing with integrated grinding and tamping assistance.
Not ideal for: Beginners or those with limited space who prefer straightforward, plug-and-play machines.
- 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“Perfect for enthusiasts seeking precise control and integrated grinding in a stylish, feature-rich machine, despite its complexity and size.”
Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Bambino Plus offers a compact footprint ideal for small kitchens, yet it doesn’t compromise on quality. Its automatic steam wand makes milk frothing straightforward, a major advantage for beginners or those short on time. The ThermoJet system enables rapid heat-up, making it convenient for quick espresso pulls. Compared to larger, more feature-rich machines like the Barista Pro, the Bambino Plus sacrifices some customization options for simplicity and space-saving design. It’s suited for users who want consistent results without the fuss but may feel limited if they seek extensive control over brewing variables. Its price point is competitive, but it doesn’t include advanced features found in premium models.
Pros:- Compact size fits small spaces
- Fast heat-up with ThermoJet system
- Automatic steam wand for microfoam
Cons:- Limited customization options
- No integrated grinder
- Price may be high relative to features for some users
Best for: Small kitchen owners or beginners who prioritize quick, reliable espresso without needing extensive customization.
Not ideal for: Experienced baristas or enthusiasts wanting advanced control and grinder integration.
- Weight:Not specified
- Power:1560 Watts
- Voltage:110-120V
- Width:7.7 inches
- Water Pressure:Pre-infusion system
- Number of Cups:1 or 2
- Warranty:2 Years
Our verdict“An excellent choice for space-conscious users seeking consistent, easy-to-use espresso making with minimal fuss, though it lacks advanced controls.”
Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Barista Pro combines rapid heating with advanced control, making it suitable for users who want quick, high-quality espresso at home. Its ThermoJet heating system reaches optimal temperature in just 3 seconds, a significant advantage over traditional models. The manual microfoam wand allows for latte art, and the LCD interface provides clear feedback, streamlining the brewing process. Compared with the BES880BSS, it offers similar features but with a more streamlined control panel, which may appeal to users who prefer manual steaming without touchscreen complexity. Its size and higher price point make it less ideal for casual users or those with limited space, but perfect for those prioritizing speed and precision.
Pros:- Rapid heat-up with ThermoJet system
- Manual microfoam wand for latte art
- Intuitive LCD interface for feedback
Cons:- Relatively high price point
- Large size requires significant counter space
- Complex interface may challenge absolute beginners
Best for: Home baristas who value quick setup, precise control, and manual milk frothing for latte art.
Not ideal for: Beginners or users seeking a simple, automated experience or those with limited space.
- 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
Our verdict“Ideal for experienced users seeking fast, precise espresso with manual control and minimal wait time, despite its size and cost.”
Breville BES881BSS Barista Touch Impress, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Breville Barista Touch Impress excels at delivering a highly personalized coffee experience with its touchscreen interface, 13 presets, and customizable milk options. Compared to the Bambino, it offers more control and automation, but that comes with a steeper learning curve and a higher price tag. Its fast ThermoJet system heats up in just 3 seconds, making it ideal for busy mornings. However, the array of features may overwhelm new users, and its size demands ample countertop space. This pick makes the most sense for dedicated home baristas who want a feature-rich machine that can be tailored precisely to their preferences.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: Experienced home baristas seeking advanced customization and automation
Not ideal for: Casual users or those with limited space who prefer simple, plug-and-play machines
- 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 machine suits those who want a fully customizable, touchscreen espresso experience with quick heat-up times, but it may be overwhelming for beginners or those with limited space.”
Breville BES870BTR Barista Express Espresso Machine, Black Truffle
The Barista Express combines a built-in conical burr grinder with precise temperature control, making it ideal for users who want a hands-on approach to crafting coffee. Unlike the Bambino, which is more automated, this model offers more control over grind size and tamping, though that means a learning curve for beginners. Its 67 oz water tank and 1/2 lb bean hopper are suited for regular home use but limit large-volume brewing. The powerful steam wand allows for microfoam milk, essential for latte art. The main tradeoff is its higher price and the need for some skill to produce perfect shots consistently. It’s best for coffee enthusiasts eager to master espresso making at home.Pros:- Built-in conical burr grinder for fresh coffee grounds
- Precise temperature control (PID) for optimal extraction
- Powerful steam wand for manual microfoam milk texturing
Cons:- Relatively high price for home espresso machines
- Learning curve for beginners
- Limited capacity for frequent large servings
Best for: Home baristas wanting a manual, craft-focused espresso experience
Not ideal for: Casual users who prefer simple, quick coffee solutions or minimal setup
- Capacity:1/2 lb Bean Hopper
- Water Tank:67 oz
- Power:1600 Watts
- Included:Razor Dose Trimming Tool, Stainless Steel Portafilter, Filter Baskets
Our verdict“This machine is designed for those who value control and authenticity, accepting a moderate learning curve and higher investment.”
Breville Bambino Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Bambino stands out as an excellent choice for those with limited space or who need rapid espresso results, thanks to its ThermoJet heating system that heats in seconds. Unlike the Barista Express, it simplifies operation with fewer manual controls, making it suitable for casual users who want decent espresso without fuss. Its compact size fits comfortably on small countertops, but that also limits its capacity for frequent, larger servings. The automatic steam wand makes milk texturing accessible, although beginners might need some practice to get consistently good microfoam. This model works best for casual drinkers or small households seeking a quick, space-efficient machine.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 commercial-grade
- May require some learning for perfect espresso extraction
- Price may be high for casual users
Best for: Small kitchen owners and casual coffee drinkers seeking simplicity and speed
Not ideal for: Serious espresso enthusiasts or those wanting extensive customization
- Power:1560 Watts
- Voltage:110-120 Volts
- Included Accessories:Milk jug, portafilter, cleaning tools
- Espresso Settings:1 or 2 Cups, Hot Water, Steam
Our verdict“Ideal for small households and users prioritizing speed and ease over extensive customization.”
Breville BES870XL Barista Express Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Barista Express is a familiar choice for newcomers who want to learn espresso craft without sacrificing quality. Its built-in conical burr grinder and PID temperature control help produce consistent shots, similar to the Barista Touch, but with more manual operation. Its 67 oz water tank and compact footprint make it suitable for most home kitchens. While it offers impressive features, the learning curve can be steep for complete novices, especially when dialing in grind settings and tamping. The design emphasizes versatility, but that also means it’s not as streamlined as touchscreen models. It’s best for those ready to develop barista skills at home and willing to invest time in mastering the process.Pros:- Built-in conical burr grinder for fresh coffee
- Precise temperature regulation (PID) for quality extraction
- Manual steam wand for microfoam milk
Cons:- Learning curve for beginners unfamiliar with espresso making
- Relatively high price point
- Limited capacity for large-volume brewing
Best for: Home users eager to learn espresso making with a manual edge
Not ideal for: Casual drinkers seeking a straightforward, automated experience
- Capacity:1/2 lb Bean Hopper
- Water Tank:67 oz
- Power:1600 Watts
- Included:Razor Dose Trimming Tool, Stainless Steel Portafilter, Filter Baskets
Our verdict“This machine suits those interested in developing barista skills through manual control while still maintaining convenience.”
Breville BES876BSS Barista Express Impress, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Barista Express Impress combines professional features like a manual microfoam wand and a 25-setting conical burr grinder with user-friendly innovations such as assisted tamping and auto-correct dosing. This makes it accessible for those who want quality without the complexity of fully manual machines like the Express. Unlike the Bambino, which emphasizes speed, the Impress offers more control over grind and dose, ideal for enthusiasts aiming for café-quality results at home. Its larger water capacity and included accessories make it a solid choice for regular use. The main challenge lies in its setup complexity and size, which could deter complete beginners or those with limited space. It’s best for serious home baristas seeking a balance between professional performance and ease of use.Pros:- Manual microfoam with professional-quality results
- Assisted tamping and auto-correct dose for consistency
- 25 grind settings for precise flavor control
Cons:- Complex setup may challenge complete beginners
- Relatively high price point
- Bulkier size may require dedicated space
Best for: Home baristas seeking a high-performance machine with guided features
Not ideal for: Casual users or those with very limited space who want the simplest setup
- Capacity:250g bean hopper
- Water Tank:2L
- Grind Settings:25
- Included Accessories:54mm portafilter, milk jug, cleaning tablets
Our verdict“This machine offers a strong mix of professional features and user-friendly assistance, perfect for committed home baristas willing to invest time.”
How We Picked
The products in this roundup were evaluated based on performance, usability, build quality, and value for money. We prioritized machines that deliver consistent extraction and temperature stability, as these are critical for great espresso. Ease of use and maintenance also played a significant role, especially for models aimed at beginners. Additionally, we considered design, durability, and feature sets to ensure each pick offers a distinct advantage for different types of users. The ranking reflects a balance between professional-grade capabilities and accessible features for home use.Factors to Consider When Choosing Breville
When selecting a Breville espresso machine, it’s important to consider several factors that impact your brewing experience and long-term satisfaction. Understanding your skill level, desired features, and budget can help you choose the right model. Beyond initial costs, think about usability, maintenance requirements, and whether you want automation or manual control. A good machine should match your coffee habits and help you develop your skills without overwhelming you with complexity.Ease of Use and Automation
Some Breville models come with advanced automation features like touchscreens, programmable shots, and automatic milk frothing, which are perfect for users who want convenience. Conversely, manual machines offer more control but require practice and skill. Deciding between these depends on how much time you want to spend dialing in each shot versus pressing a button and enjoying consistent results.
Build Quality and Durability
Most Breville machines use stainless steel construction, which ensures longevity and resistance to wear. Cheaper plastics may lower initial costs but can compromise durability over time. For daily use, investing in a well-built model ensures fewer repairs and a longer lifespan, especially if you plan to use your machine frequently.
Features and Customization
Features like PID temperature control, pressure profiling, and steam wand quality significantly affect your espresso quality. More advanced features provide greater control for espresso enthusiasts, but they also increase complexity and price. Consider what level of control and convenience you need—basic machines are suitable for casual drinkers, while prosumer models cater to hobbyists.
Size and Kitchen Compatibility
Breville machines vary in size, so measuring your available counter space is essential. Compact models like the Bambino Plus fit smaller kitchens but may lack some features of larger units. Larger machines provide more stability and capacity but require more space and may involve more setup effort. Match your kitchen space to the model’s footprint for a seamless fit.
Price and Long-Term Value
While premium models cost more upfront, they often deliver better performance, durability, and features that justify the investment. Cheaper options might seem attractive initially but could lead to higher maintenance costs or subpar coffee quality over time. Balancing your budget with your espresso goals is key to choosing a machine that offers the best long-term value.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make professional-quality espresso at home with a Breville machine?
Yes, many Breville models are designed to produce café-quality espresso at home, especially those with features like PID temperature control, pressure profiling, and automatic milk frothing. Models like the Barista Touch and Pro are particularly suited for users aiming for barista-level results. However, achieving professional-quality shots also depends on your skill, coffee beans, and technique, so practice and learning are essential to fully benefit from these machines.
Are Breville espresso machines easy for beginners to operate?
For beginners, Breville offers several user-friendly options, such as the Bambino Plus, with intuitive controls and automatic frothing. These models simplify the espresso-making process without sacrificing too much control. More advanced models may require some learning curve but often include helpful features like guided setups and clear display interfaces. Starting with a simpler model can help build confidence before moving to more complex machines.
How often do I need to descale or maintain my Breville espresso machine?
Most Breville machines require descaling every few months if you use hard water, which helps maintain performance and longevity. Regular cleaning of the portafilter, drip tray, and steam wand is also recommended to prevent clogs and buildup. Many models include cleaning alerts or programs, making maintenance easier. Proper care ensures consistent results and extends the life of your investment.
Is it worth paying extra for a machine with a touchscreen or advanced automation?
Touchscreens and automation features add convenience and precision, making them worthwhile for users who prioritize ease of use or want consistent results with minimal effort. They often include programmable shots and milk frothing, saving time and effort. However, these features come at a higher cost, and manual control can still produce excellent results if you’re willing to learn. Consider your comfort level with technology and how much control you want over each brew.
What should I consider if I want a Breville machine for multiple users or family members?
If multiple people will use the machine, look for models with easy-to-use interfaces and programmable profiles to accommodate different preferences. Machines with dual boilers or quick heat-up times can also improve efficiency during busy mornings. Durability and ease of cleaning are important for frequent use, and selecting a model with straightforward operation can help ensure everyone gets consistent results without frustration.
Conclusion
Choosing the right Breville depends on your skill level, budget, and how you intend to use the machine. The Breville BES880BSS Barista Touch is best for serious hobbyists seeking advanced features and automation. The Bambino Plus offers great value and simplicity, ideal for beginners or casual drinkers. For those who want a balance of speed and quality, the Barista Pro delivers professional results with faster heat-up times. Budget-conscious buyers should consider entry-level models, while experienced users might prioritize premium features for consistent, café-quality espresso at home.
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