Breville is renowned for its high-quality espresso machines that combine performance, durability, and user-friendly features. The Breville Barista Express BES870BSXL stands out as the best overall choice, offering a great balance of features and value. For those seeking faster heat-up times and more advanced controls, the Breville BES880BSS Barista Touch is a top contender. Meanwhile, the Breville Bambino Plus appeals to beginners with its straightforward operation and compact design. The main tradeoffs across these options involve balancing price, features, and ease of use. Keep reading for the full breakdown and help narrowing down your ideal Breville machine.
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Key Takeaways
- The top picks differentiate mainly on feature set and usability, with the Barista Express leading in versatility for most users.
- Premium models like the Oracle Jet introduce advanced automation, but come at a significantly higher price point.
- Entry-level options such as the Bambino Plus simplify operation, making them ideal for beginners, but may lack some customization features.
- Build quality and material choices (stainless steel vs. plastic) influence long-term durability and aesthetic appeal.
- Price often correlates with feature complexity; investing more generally yields more control and faster performance.
| Breville Barista Express BES870BSXL Espresso Machine, Black Sesame |  | Best Overall for Serious Home Baristas | 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 All-in-One Convenience | Capacity: 1/2 lb Bean Hopper, 67 oz Water Tank | Power: 1600 Watts | Voltage: 120 Volts | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville Bambino Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best Compact for Small Spaces | Power: 1560 Watts | Voltage: 110 to 120 Volts | Water Tank Capacity: Not specified | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES880BSS Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for Ease and Customization | Material: Brushed Stainless Steel | Power: 1680 Watts | Voltage: 110-120V | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for Professional-Grade Control at Home | Capacity: 1/2 lb Bean Hopper | Water Tank: 67 oz | Power: 1680 Watts | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES985BSS Oracle Jet Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best Overall for Professional-Grade Home Baristas | Material: Brushed Stainless Steel | Portafilter Size: 58mm | Burrs: Baratza European Precision Burrs | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES880BTR Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Black Truffle |  | Best for Tech-Savvy Beginners and Customization | Power: 1680 Watts | Water Tank Capacity: 67 oz | Bean Hopper Capacity: 0.5 lb | 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, 2L water tank | Grind Settings: 25 | Included Accessories: Portafilter, milk jug, filter baskets, water filter, cleaning tablets | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best Compact for Small Kitchens | Weight: Not specified | Power: 1560 Watts | Voltage: 110-120 V | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES870XL Barista Express Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for Hands-On Control and Customization | Capacity: 1/2 lb Bean Hopper | Water Tank: 67 oz | Power: 1600 Watts | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville | Power | Voltage | Included Accessories | Capacity |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Breville Barista Express BES87 | 1600 Watts | 120 Volts | — | 1/2 lb Bean Hopper |
| Breville BES870BTR Barista Exp | 1600 Watts | 120 Volts | Stainless Steel Portafilter, Filter Baskets, Tamper, Milk Jug, Cleaning Tools | 1/2 lb Bean Hopper, 67 oz Water Tank |
| Breville Bambino Espresso Mach | 1560 Watts | 110 to 120 Volts | Portafilter, milk jug, cleaning tools | — |
| Breville BES880BSS Barista Tou | 1680 Watts | 110-120V | — | — |
| Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro | 1680 Watts | 120 Volts | Filter Baskets, Milk Jug, Cleaning Kit | 1/2 lb Bean Hopper |
| Breville BES985BSS Oracle Jet | — | — | — | — |
| Breville BES880BTR Barista Tou | 1680 Watts | — | Stainless steel portafilter, filter baskets, milk jug, water filter, trimming tool, cleaning kit | — |
| Breville BES876BSS Barista Exp | — | — | Portafilter, milk jug, filter baskets, water filter, cleaning tablets | 250g bean hopper, 2L water tank |
| Breville Bambino Plus Espresso | 1560 Watts | 110-120 V | — | — |
| Breville BES870XL Barista Expr | 1600 Watts | — | Portafilter, tamper, milk jug, cleaning tools | 1/2 lb Bean Hopper |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Breville Barista Express BES870BSXL Espresso Machine, Black Sesame
This model stands out for its integrated conical burr grinder and precise temperature control, making it ideal for those who want to master espresso-making at home. Compared with the Breville BES870BTR, it offers similar features but with a slightly more refined build. The main tradeoff is its size and weight, which can challenge those with limited counter space. It’s perfect for users willing to learn and invest time in crafting cafe-quality drinks, but beginners may find the setup intimidating. The built-in grinder and powerful steam wand provide excellent control, while the limited bean capacity means frequent refilling for regular use.
Pros:- Built-in conical burr grinder for ultimate freshness
- Precise PID temperature control for consistent extraction
- Powerful steam wand for rich microfoam
Cons:- Complex setup may overwhelm beginners
- Heavy and bulky, consumes significant counter space
Best for: Home enthusiasts committed to developing barista skills and enjoying high-quality espresso daily
Not ideal for: Small kitchens or casual users who prefer quick, no-fuss coffee options
- 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 Tools, Water Filter
- Size:Large and heavy
Our verdict“This machine is best suited for dedicated coffee lovers ready to refine their espresso craft at home.”
Breville BES870BTR Barista Express Espresso Machine, Black Truffle
Compared with the BES870BSXL, this model offers a sleek design and all-in-one setup that appeals to those seeking a straightforward experience. Its built-in grinder, PID temperature control, and microfoam steam wand make it suitable for users who want fresh grounds and manual milk texturing but prefer a more streamlined form factor. The main drawback is its higher price point, which might be a barrier for casual users. It also has a limited water capacity, requiring refills during frequent use. This pick makes the most sense for those who want a balanced mix of manual control and convenience without extra accessories.
Pros:- Built-in conical burr grinder for fresh grounds
- PID temperature control ensures consistent extraction
- Manual microfoam wand for latte art capability
Cons:- Higher price compared to non-grinding models
- Limited water capacity for frequent use
Best for: Home baristas who value simplicity combined with professional features
Not ideal for: Budget-conscious buyers or those with limited counter space seeking a compact machine
- Capacity:1/2 lb Bean Hopper, 67 oz Water Tank
- Power:1600 Watts
- Voltage:120 Volts
- Included Accessories:Stainless Steel Portafilter, Filter Baskets, Tamper, Milk Jug, Cleaning Tools
- Features:Built-in grinder, PID, microfoam wand, grind size dial
Our verdict“Ideal for coffee lovers wanting an all-in-one espresso machine that balances manual control with convenience.”
Breville Bambino Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
This machine is designed for those who need a quick, space-saving espresso option without sacrificing quality. Its ThermoJet heating system delivers a 3-second heat-up, which is significantly faster than larger models like the Barista Pro or Touch. While it lacks a built-in grinder, it accepts pre-ground coffee, making it more accessible for absolute beginners. Its compact size is perfect for small kitchens, but this means a smaller water tank and fewer customization options. The Bambino is less suited for those who want to experiment with grinding or milk texturing extensively but excels for quick, daily espresso shots in tight spaces.
Pros:- Rapid heat-up with ThermoJet system
- Compact footprint fits small kitchens
- Manual steam wand for milk texturing
Cons:- No built-in grinder, requires pre-ground coffee
- Limited water capacity and customization
Best for: Apartment dwellers or small kitchen owners who want quick, quality espresso without complexity
Not ideal for: Serious coffee enthusiasts seeking advanced control or grinder features
- Power:1560 Watts
- Voltage:110 to 120 Volts
- Water Tank Capacity:Not specified
- Brew Group Size:54mm portafilter
- Included Accessories:Portafilter, milk jug, cleaning tools
- Heat-up Time:3 seconds
Our verdict“Perfect for those who want fast, quality espresso in a tiny footprint with minimal fuss.”
Breville BES880BSS Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
This model introduces a touchscreen interface that simplifies operation while offering extensive customization, making it ideal for users who want cafe-quality drinks with minimal effort. Its automatic microfoam milk texturing and fast ThermoJet heating system provide consistency and speed, comparable to the Barista Pro but with a more intuitive control panel. The main tradeoff is the higher price, which might deter casual users or those new to espresso. The included accessories and pre-programmed favorites streamline the experience, but some users may find the array of features slightly overwhelming initially. Overall, it’s a solid choice for home baristas seeking convenience and personalization.
Pros:- Touchscreen interface for easy operation
- Automatic microfoam milk texturing produces professional-quality drinks
- Fast heat-up with ThermoJet system
Cons:- Higher price point
- Complex features may require learning
Best for: Home users who value user-friendly technology and customizable drink options
Not ideal for: Budget-conscious buyers or those wanting a purely manual machine without digital controls
- Material:Brushed Stainless Steel
- Power:1680 Watts
- Voltage:110-120V
- Water Tank Capacity:67 oz
- Bean Hopper Capacity:0.5 lbs
- Features:Touchscreen, Programmable, Auto-microfoam
Our verdict“Best suited for users who prioritize ease, speed, and customization in their home espresso experience.”
Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
Compared with the Barista Touch, the Barista Pro emphasizes manual control with a sleek LCD interface that provides real-time progress and settings. Its powerful ThermoJet system heats up the machine rapidly, allowing for quick transitions from grind to brew. The conical burr grinder and precise temperature regulation support a high level of customization, making it ideal for experienced home baristas who want to fine-tune every shot. The main tradeoff is that its complexity can be daunting for beginners, and the price reflects its professional-grade features. For those seeking a more hands-on experience with advanced controls, this model offers excellent performance but requires some learning.
Pros:- Precise LCD interface with real-time feedback
- Fast heat-up with ThermoJet system
- High level of customization for grinding, extraction, and milk texturing
Cons:- Steeper learning curve due to manual controls
- Price may be prohibitive for casual users
Best for: Experienced home baristas who want full control over their espresso and milk-based drinks
Not ideal for: Casual users or newcomers who prefer automatic features or simpler operation
- Capacity:1/2 lb Bean Hopper
- Water Tank:67 oz
- Power:1680 Watts
- Voltage:120 Volts
- Features:LCD display, precise temp control, powerful steam wand
- Included Accessories:Filter Baskets, Milk Jug, Cleaning Kit
Our verdict“This machine is designed for dedicated espresso enthusiasts seeking professional-level control at home.”
Breville BES985BSS Oracle Jet Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Breville Oracle Jet stands out for its fully automatic operation, which includes grinding, dosing, tamping, and milk frothing—making it ideal for those who want barista-quality espresso without the manual effort. Compared to the Breville Barista Express Impress, it offers more automation and precise temperature control, but at a higher price and larger size. Its ThermoJet system delivers rapid heat-up times, and customizable settings allow fine-tuning to personal preferences. However, the machine’s complexity can be daunting for newcomers, and its bulkier design demands significant counter space. This option is best suited for dedicated home baristas who prioritize convenience and consistency over initial setup complexity.
Pros:- Fully automatic grinding, dosing, and tamping for convenience
- Precise temperature adjustment with +/- 1 degree control
- Fast heat-up with ThermoJet system
- Versatile options including cold brew and milk frothing
Cons:- Complex setup may require time to learn
- Premium price point makes it less accessible for casual users
- Bulkier design may limit countertop placement
Best for: Experienced coffee enthusiasts seeking professional-quality results at home
Not ideal for: Casual users or those with limited kitchen space who prefer a simpler, more compact machine
- Material:Brushed Stainless Steel
- Portafilter Size:58mm
- Burrs:Baratza European Precision Burrs
- Heating System:ThermoJet
- Temperature Adjustment:+/- 1 degree
- Grind Settings:45
Our verdict“This machine is ideal for serious home baristas who want professional features and are comfortable with a learning curve.”
Breville BES880BTR Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Black Truffle
The Breville Barista Touch combines intuitive touchscreen controls with automatic milk texturing, making it a strong choice for users new to espresso who want easy customization. It surpasses the Bambino Plus with a larger capacity and smart interface that simplifies brewing. The quick heat-up via ThermoJet and personalized profiles help streamline the process, but the machine’s high price and complex setup may be overwhelming for absolute beginners. Its sizable footprint also demands ample counter space. This pick makes the most sense for those who want to experiment with advanced features without sacrificing ease of use, especially if they enjoy customizing their drinks.
Pros:- Touchscreen interface simplifies brewing and customization
- Automatic microfoam milk texturing produces barista-quality drinks
- Fast heat-up with ThermoJet system
- Personalized coffee profiles for quick brewing
Cons:- High cost may be prohibitive for some buyers
- Setup can be complex for those unfamiliar with advanced machines
- Larger size limits placement options
Best for: Tech-savvy beginners eager to explore personalized coffee profiles
Not ideal for: Minimalists or those with limited space who prefer straightforward machines
- Power:1680 Watts
- Water Tank Capacity:67 oz
- Bean Hopper Capacity:0.5 lb
- Included Accessories:Stainless steel portafilter, filter baskets, milk jug, water filter, trimming tool, cleaning kit
- Warranty:2 Years
Our verdict“This machine is ideal for those who want a blend of automation, customization, and modern interface in a home espresso setup.”
Breville BES876BSS Barista Express Impress, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Barista Express Impress offers a solid mix of professional features with ease of use, making it suitable for users who want café-quality espresso without complex manual steps. Its intelligent dosing system and assisted tamping simplify the process, and the built-in conical burr grinder with 25 settings ensures fresh grounds for each shot—more versatile than the Bambino Plus. While setup can be overwhelming for complete novices, it strikes a good balance between automation and control for those willing to learn. Its size and price are considerations, but for users wanting a more hands-on experience that still feels approachable, this machine fits well.
Pros:- Built-in conical burr grinder for fresh flavor
- Intelligent dosing and assisted tamping for consistency
- Manual microfoam wand for milk texturing
- PID temperature control ensures accurate extraction
Cons:- Complex for complete novices
- Relatively large size demands dedicated space
- Higher price compared to entry-level models
Best for: Home baristas ready to learn espresso craft with guided assistance
Not ideal for: Absolute beginners seeking minimal setup or those with limited kitchen space
- Capacity:250g bean hopper, 2L water tank
- Grind Settings:25
- Included Accessories:Portafilter, milk jug, filter baskets, water filter, cleaning tablets
- Features:Manual microfoam, intelligent dosing, auto-correct dose
Our verdict“This machine is best suited for users who want a balance of control and automation, and are willing to put in some learning effort.”
Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Bambino Plus is a compact, user-friendly espresso machine that excels at delivering café-quality drinks in small spaces. Its automatic steam wand and precise temperature control via ThermoJet make it quick to operate, especially suited for those who want fast results with minimal fuss. Compared to the larger Barista Express, it sacrifices some control but compensates with simplicity and size. The limited capacity—just 1 or 2 cups—may not suit households with multiple coffee drinkers, and the price can be high relative to its features. It’s an excellent choice for small kitchens or singles who prioritize ease and speed over extensive customization.
Pros:- Compact size fits small kitchens effortlessly
- Fast heat-up with ThermoJet system
- Automatic milk texturing produces microfoam easily
- Simple controls for quick brewing
Cons:- Limited to one or two cups at a time
- Price may seem high for a small machine
- No extensive customization options
Best for: Singles or small households needing a space-efficient espresso maker
Not ideal for: Large families or users wanting advanced control and customization
- Weight:Not specified
- Power:1560 Watts
- Voltage:110-120 V
- Width:7.7 inches
- Water Pressure:Pre-infusion system
- Milk Texturing:Automatic steam wand
Our verdict“This machine is perfect for space-conscious users who want quick, high-quality espresso without complex features.”
Breville BES870XL Barista Express Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The BES870XL remains a favorite for those who want to master espresso making, thanks to its built-in conical burr grinder and manual operation. It offers more control than fully automatic models like the BES880BTR, with adjustable grind size and dose, making it ideal for enthusiasts who enjoy experimenting with variables. Compared to the Oracle Jet, it lacks fully automated features but appeals to users willing to invest time in learning. Its larger footprint and need for regular maintenance are tradeoffs for the level of control it offers. This machine is best for users who want to learn and refine their barista skills at home, rather than those seeking effortless convenience.
Pros:- Built-in conical burr grinder for freshness
- PID temperature control for precise extraction
- Steam wand for microfoam and latte art
- Adjustable grind size and dose
Cons:- Requires more effort and learning time
- Large footprint may be a concern in small kitchens
- Regular cleaning and maintenance needed
Best for: Coffee hobbyists eager to learn espresso craft and manual control
Not ideal for: Casual drinkers or those with limited space who prefer automatic operation
- Capacity:1/2 lb Bean Hopper
- Water Tank:67 oz
- Power:1600 Watts
- Included Accessories:Portafilter, tamper, milk jug, cleaning tools
- Warranty:1 Year Limited
Our verdict“This machine is best for committed enthusiasts who want to develop their espresso skills and enjoy manual control.”
How We Picked
Our evaluation focused on performance, usability, build quality, and value for money. We prioritized machines that deliver consistent espresso extraction and steaming power, while also considering ease of setup and maintenance. Features like automatic milk frothing, digital controls, and customization options were key differentiators. We also examined customer feedback and brand reputation to ensure reliability over time. The ranking reflects a balance of these factors, highlighting options suitable for different budgets and experience levels.
| Breville | Included Accessories |
|---|---|
| Breville Barista Express BES87 | — |
| Breville BES870BTR Barista Exp | Stainless Steel Portafilter, Filter Baskets, Tamper, Milk Jug, Cleaning Tools |
| Breville Bambino Espresso Mach | Portafilter, milk jug, cleaning tools |
| Breville BES880BSS Barista Tou | — |
| Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro | Filter Baskets, Milk Jug, Cleaning Kit |
| Breville BES985BSS Oracle Jet | — |
| Breville BES880BTR Barista Tou | Stainless steel portafilter, filter baskets, milk jug, water filter, trimming tool, cleaning kit |
| Breville BES876BSS Barista Exp | Portafilter, milk jug, filter baskets, water filter, cleaning tablets |
| Breville Bambino Plus Espresso | — |
| Breville BES870XL Barista Expr | Portafilter, tamper, milk jug, cleaning tools |
Factors to Consider When Choosing Breville
Choosing the right Breville espresso machine depends on several factors beyond basic features. Understanding your brewing habits, space constraints, and budget can make a big difference in selecting the best model for your needs. Here are some key considerations to help guide your decision:Performance and Consistency
Look for machines with powerful boilers and good temperature stability, as these influence shot quality and steam performance. Higher-end models typically offer better consistency, which is critical for those who take espresso seriously. Cheaper options might struggle with temperature fluctuations or require more manual adjustments, so consider how much control you want over your brew.
Ease of Use and Automation
If you’re new to espresso, machines with automated features like milk frothing and digital displays reduce the learning curve. Manual machines offer more control but demand more skill and time. Assess whether you prefer simple one-touch operation or are willing to learn the nuances of espresso making.
Build Quality and Longevity
Stainless steel construction generally lasts longer and maintains a more premium look, especially if you plan to keep your machine for years. Cheaper plastics may save money upfront but can wear out faster. Also, check for quality components like sturdy portafilters and reliable pumps to ensure durability.
Size and Kitchen Fit
Consider your available counter space. Compact models like the Bambino Plus fit well in smaller kitchens, while larger, feature-rich machines may require more room. Think about your workflow—if you want quick, on-demand espresso, size and placement matter.
Value and Future Investment
Higher-priced models often include advanced features that can improve your brewing experience, but weigh if those features justify the cost. Conversely, entry-level models provide good value for casual users but might lack longevity or customization options. Think about your long-term needs and how much you’re willing to invest for upgrades or additional accessories.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it better to buy a semi-automatic or fully automatic Breville espresso machine?
Choosing between semi-automatic and fully automatic depends on your experience level and how much control you want. Semi-automatic machines, like the Barista Express, let you manually control shot timing and steam pressure, offering more customization for enthusiasts. Fully automatic models, such as the Barista Touch, handle many steps for you, making operation simpler. If you’re a beginner or want quick, consistent results, a fully automatic might suit better. More experienced users often prefer semi-automatic for its flexibility and control.
Are higher-priced Breville machines worth the investment?
Higher-priced models like the Oracle Jet or Barista Pro often feature faster heat-up times, more automation, and better build quality, which can improve your overall experience. If you regularly brew espresso and want consistent, high-quality results without much fuss, spending more can be justified. However, for casual use or beginners, more affordable options like the Bambino Plus still deliver good performance. Consider your brewing frequency and skill level before committing to a premium model.
What maintenance does a Breville espresso machine require?
Most Breville machines need regular descaling, cleaning of the portafilter, and milk frothing components to maintain performance. Automatic cleaning cycles simplify upkeep, especially on higher-end models. Proper maintenance not only extends the machine’s lifespan but also preserves espresso quality. Be prepared to periodically replace water filters and check seals or gaskets for wear. Consistent upkeep is a small effort for a significant boost in longevity and flavor clarity.
Can I use pre-ground coffee with a Breville espresso machine?
Yes, many Breville machines allow you to use pre-ground coffee in addition to fresh beans. This flexibility can be convenient if you don’t want to grind beans every time. However, for optimal flavor and freshness, using freshly ground beans is recommended. Be sure to adjust the grind size to prevent over-extraction or under-extraction, which can affect shot quality. Using pre-ground coffee is a good option for occasional use or testing new blends without investing in a grinder.
Is a higher wattage machine better for espresso brewing?
Higher wattage typically means the machine heats up faster and can maintain more stable temperatures, which is beneficial for consistent espresso shots. However, wattage alone doesn’t determine quality; the design and boiler quality matter more. Some lower-wattage models are perfectly capable if well-designed. Consider overall performance, temperature stability, and user reviews rather than wattage alone to find a machine that meets your needs effectively.
Conclusion
For most home users, the Breville Barista Express BES870BSXL offers a solid balance of control, quality, and value, making it the best overall pick. Those seeking advanced automation and premium features should consider the Breville BES880BSS Barista Touch, ideal for enthusiasts willing to pay a premium. Beginners or casual drinkers will appreciate the simplicity of the Bambino Plus, which offers good performance without complexity. If you’re after a machine with maximum versatility and professional-level features, the Oracle Jet is worth the investment. Your choice ultimately depends on your skill level, budget, and how much control you want over your espresso experience.
