When it comes to brewing high-quality espresso at home, Breville stands out as a leading brand. The Breville BES870XL Barista Express is often regarded as the best overall choice for its balance of features and affordability. For those seeking advanced customization, the Breville Barista Touch models shine with touchscreen controls and intuitive operation. However, buyers face tradeoffs between price, complexity, and build quality. Continue reading for a full breakdown of the top options and what makes each one unique.
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Key Takeaways
- The top picks balance performance with ease of use, with the Breville Barista Express leading as the best overall.
- Premium models like the Barista Touch offer advanced features but come with higher price tags and complexity.
- A consistent pattern shows brushed stainless steel finishes across most models, signaling durability and style.
- Entry-level options like the Bambino Plus are ideal for beginners but may lack some advanced features.
- Price often correlates with feature set; investing more generally yields more control, customization, and build quality.
| 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 BES881BSS Barista Touch Impress, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for Customization and Ease of Use | Material: Brushed Stainless Steel | Heating System: ThermoJet | Grinder: Baratza European conical burrs, 30 grind settings | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for Compact Spaces and Ease of Use | Weight: Not specified | Power: 1560 Watts | Voltage: 110-120 Volts | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES870BTR Barista Express Espresso Machine, Black Truffle |  | Best for Traditional Manual Control | 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 Advanced Customization and Convenience | 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 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 Bambino Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for Compact Spaces and Ease of Use | Power: 1560 Watts | Voltage: 110-120 Volts | Included Accessories: 1 & 2 Cup Filter Baskets, Milk Jug, Portafilter, Tamper, Cleaning Tool, Descaling Powder | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES880BTR Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Black Truffle |  | Best for Customization and Ease of Use | 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 Professional-Style Control | Capacity: 250g Bean Hopper, 2L Water Tank | Grind Settings: 25 | Portafilter Size: 54mm | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES876BSS Barista Express Impress, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for Professional-Quality Coffee at Home | Capacity: 250g Bean Hopper, 2L Water Tank | Grind Settings: 25 | Included Accessories: 54mm Portafilter, Milk Jug, Filter Baskets, Water Filter Holder, Trimming Tool, Cleaning Tablets | 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 BES881BSS Barista Tou | — | — | — | — |
| Breville Bambino Plus Espresso | 1560 Watts | 110-120 Volts | — | — |
| Breville BES870BTR Barista Exp | 1600 Watts | 120 Volts | 1/2 lb Bean Hopper | — |
| Breville BES880BSS Barista Tou | 1680 Watts | 110-120V | — | — |
| Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro | 1680 Watts | 120 Volts | 1/2 lb Bean Hopper, 67 oz Water Tank | Single & Dual Wall Filter Baskets, Razor Dose Trimming Tool, Milk Jug, Cleaning Kit, Water Filter |
| Breville Bambino Espresso Mach | 1560 Watts | 110-120 Volts | — | 1 & 2 Cup Filter Baskets, Milk Jug, Portafilter, Tamper, Cleaning Tool, Descaling Powder |
| Breville BES880BTR Barista Tou | 1680 Watts | 110 to 120V | — | 54mm Stainless Steel Portafilter, Filters, Milk Jug, Water Filter, Trimming Tool, Cleaning Kit, Test Strip |
| Breville BES876DBL Barista Exp | — | — | 250g Bean Hopper, 2L Water Tank | Milk Jug, Filter Baskets, Water Filter Holder, Trimming Tool, Cleaning Tablets |
| Breville BES876BSS Barista Exp | — | — | 250g Bean Hopper, 2L Water Tank | 54mm Portafilter, Milk Jug, Filter Baskets, Water Filter Holder, Trimming Tool, Cleaning Tablets |
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 for home espresso enthusiasts who want control and quality. Its built-in conical burr grinder and precise PID temperature regulation enable fresh, well-extracted shots, rivaling the experience of a café. Compared to the Bambino Plus, it offers more customization options, but this comes with a steeper learning curve and higher price. The compact design suits small kitchens, yet the limited capacity makes it less ideal for frequent large-volume brewing. This model balances performance and price, making it a strong pick for those willing to learn.
Pros:- Built-in conical burr grinder for ultra-fresh grounds
- Precise PID temperature control for optimal extraction
- Manual steam wand for microfoam milk texturing
Cons:- Learning curve may be steep for newcomers
- Higher price point compared to simpler machines
- Limited capacity for large or frequent brewing
Best for: Home users seeking a full-featured, semi-automatic espresso experience and willing to learn the craft.
Not ideal for: Beginners who prefer a plug-and-play machine or those with limited counter space, due to its learning curve and size.
- 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“A well-rounded choice for serious home baristas who want control and café-quality results.”
Breville BES881BSS Barista Touch Impress, Brushed Stainless Steel
This Barista Touch Impress makes a compelling case for those who want personalized coffee with minimal effort. Its touchscreen interface and pre-programmed café favorites streamline the process, while the auto steam wand simplifies milk frothing. Compared to the Bambino Plus, it offers more drink options and customizable profiles, but its larger footprint and premium price may be drawbacks. The fast ThermoJet heating system means you’re ready to brew in just 3 seconds, ideal for quick mornings. However, the complex features can overwhelm beginners, making it better suited for those eager to experiment without fuss.
Pros:- Touchscreen display for easy operation and customization
- Auto MilQ milk texturing with alternative milk settings
- Rapid heat-up with ThermoJet system
Cons:- High price may be prohibitive for some buyers
- Size may be an issue for small kitchens
- Learning curve for mastering all features
Best for: Coffee lovers who value convenience, customization, and a modern interface in a semi-automatic machine.
Not ideal for: Users new to espresso who prefer straightforward operation or have limited space, due to its size and complexity.
- Material:Brushed Stainless Steel
- Heating System:ThermoJet
- Grinder:Baratza European conical burrs, 30 grind settings
- Display:Touchscreen
- Presets:13 café favorites, customizable up to 6 drinks
- Milk Features:Auto MilQ with alternative milk options
Our verdict“Best suited for those who want quick, customizable drinks with minimal fuss and have ample counter space.”
Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Bambino Plus offers a straightforward, space-saving option for home baristas who want café-quality espresso without fuss. Its automatic steam wand ensures consistent microfoam, making milk-based drinks easier for beginners. Compared with the Barista Express, it lacks a built-in grinder, so you need pre-ground coffee or a separate grinder, which can add steps. Its rapid ThermoJet heating system means you’re ready to brew in seconds, but the limited size and single- or double-shot capacity may be restrictive for heavy users. This machine provides a good balance of simplicity and performance, ideal for small kitchens or those new to espresso.
Pros:- Compact size fits small countertops
- Fast heat-up with ThermoJet system
- Automatic steam wand for consistent microfoam
Cons:- No built-in grinder, requiring pre-ground coffee
- Limited to 1-2 cups per brew cycle
- No advanced customization options
Best for: Small kitchen dwellers and beginners seeking quick, reliable espresso with minimal setup.
Not ideal for: Experienced users wanting advanced customization or larger capacity for frequent large drinks.
- 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
Our verdict“An excellent choice for small spaces and newcomers needing an easy, quick espresso setup.”
Breville BES870BTR Barista Express Espresso Machine, Black Truffle
The Black Truffle Barista Express echoes the original BES870XL but with a distinctive finish and similar features. Its built-in conical burr grinder and PID temperature control deliver fresh grounds and consistent extraction, comparable to the brushed stainless model. Compared to the newer Barista Touch, it lacks a touchscreen and automatic milk frothing, appealing to purists who prefer manual control. Its compact design fits well in home kitchens, but the learning curve remains steep for beginners, and capacity limitations make it less suitable for frequent large batches. For those who appreciate hands-on espresso crafting, this machine offers a traditional experience with high-quality results.
Pros:- Built-in conical burr grinder for fresh grounds
- PID temperature control for precise extraction
- Compact design suitable for home use
Cons:- Learning curve for beginners
- No automatic milk frothing, requiring manual skill
- Limited capacity for large-volume brewing
Best for: Home baristas who prioritize manual control and traditional espresso-making over automation.
Not ideal for: Casual users or those new to espresso who want quick, automated drinks without much fuss.
- 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“Ideal for enthusiasts who prefer hands-on control and traditional espresso techniques at home.”
Breville BES880BSS Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The BES880BSS Barista Touch combines automation with customization, making it suitable for those who want barista-quality drinks with less effort. Its automatic microfoam wand and touchscreen interface allow for easy operation and personalized drink profiles. Compared with the Bambino Plus, it offers more advanced features like programmable settings and a larger selection of café favorites. Its fast ThermoJet heating system means quick startup, but the higher price and larger footprint could be barriers. This machine suits those who value convenience but still want some control over their coffee and milk textures, especially if they frequently entertain or make multiple drinks.
Pros:- Automatic microfoam milk texturing for professional-quality drinks
- Touchscreen display with customizable profiles
- Fast heat-up with ThermoJet system
Cons:- High purchase price
- Larger size may not suit small kitchens
- Feature-rich options may require learning to maximize use
Best for: Experienced home baristas who want a semi-automatic machine with automation features and customization options.
Not ideal for: Beginners or those with limited space, due to size and complex features.
- 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
Our verdict“Best suited for those seeking a blend of automation and customization in a semi-automatic machine for regular use.”
Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Breville Barista Pro excels in delivering café-quality espresso quickly thanks to its ThermoJet heating system, which reaches optimal temperature in just 3 seconds. It features a manual microfoam wand ideal for latte art, and its built-in conical burr grinder offers precise control over grind size, making it suitable for both beginners and seasoned enthusiasts. Compared to the Barista Express, it offers faster heat-up and more consistent temperature stability, though its larger size and complex interface can be a hurdle for small kitchens or users new to espresso machines. This pick makes the most sense for those who value speed, precision, and a semi-automatic experience without sacrificing quality, even if it means a higher price and a steeper learning curve.
Pros:- Fast heat-up time with ThermoJet system
- Precise temperature control for optimal extraction
- Manual microfoam wand for latte art
- Built-in grinder with adjustable settings
Cons:- Relatively high price point compared to simpler models
- Complex interface may be challenging for beginners
- Large size requiring significant counter space
Best for: Home baristas who want quick, precise espresso with professional features
Not ideal for: Small kitchens with limited counter space or beginners who prefer a simpler, more intuitive machine
- 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“Ideal for experienced home baristas who prioritize speed and precision despite the higher cost and size.”
Breville Bambino Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Breville Bambino stands out for its compact size, making it a perfect fit for small kitchens or limited countertops. Its ThermoJet heating system ensures rapid warm-up, and the automatic steam wand simplifies milk texturing, reducing the learning curve for casual users. While it can’t match the professional features of the Barista Pro, it offers enough control for home use, making it ideal for beginners who want quick, quality espresso without complexity. Compared with larger, more feature-rich machines, the Bambino sacrifices some customization options but excels in user-friendliness and speed. This model makes the most sense for those seeking a straightforward, space-efficient machine that still produces good results, though its price might be steep for casual users.
Pros:- Compact size ideal for small kitchens
- Fast heat-up with ThermoJet system
- Automatic steam wand for milk texturing
- Precise temperature regulation for quality espresso
Cons:- Limited to home use, not designed for heavy daily volume
- May require some practice for perfect extraction
- Price might be high relative to basic models
Best for: Small space dwellers or beginners looking for quick, quality espresso with minimal fuss
Not ideal for: Experienced home baristas seeking advanced features or larger capacity machines
- Power:1560 Watts
- Voltage:110-120 Volts
- Included Accessories:1 & 2 Cup Filter Baskets, Milk Jug, Portafilter, Tamper, Cleaning Tool, Descaling Powder
- Espresso Settings:1 or 2 Cups, Hot Water, Steam
- Warranty:1 Year Limited
Our verdict“Best suited for apartment dwellers or newcomers who want quick, reliable espresso without taking up much space.”
Breville BES880BTR Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Black Truffle
The Breville Barista Touch offers a seamless brewing experience with its touchscreen interface, making it simple to customize drinks and control every step. It features automatic microfoam milk texturing, which appeals to those who want consistency and convenience, and the fast ThermoJet system ensures quick readiness. While the high price might deter casual users, it’s a smart choice for serious espresso lovers who enjoy fine-tuning their brews. Compared with the Barista Express Impress, it offers more automation but less manual control, which might not appeal to purists. This model is ideal for enthusiasts who want a high-tech, customizable experience, though it isn’t suited for budget-conscious buyers or those with limited voltage options.
Pros:- Touchscreen interface simplifies brewing and customization
- Automatic microfoam milk texturing for consistent drinks
- Fast heat-up with ThermoJet system
- Precise dose grinding and customizable settings
Cons:- High price point may be prohibitive
- Complex features require a learning curve
- Limited to 110-120V power supply
Best for: Home baristas who value customization, automation, and a user-friendly touchscreen
Not ideal for: Budget buyers or users seeking a purely manual espresso experience
- 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“Perfect for espresso enthusiasts who want a high-tech, customizable machine that balances automation with quality, despite its premium price.”
Breville BES876DBL Barista Express Impress, Damson Blue
The Breville BES876DBL Barista Express Impress combines a built-in conical burr grinder with assisted tamping, elevating home espresso to a more professional level. Its 25 grind settings and powerful steam wand enable detailed control over brewing and milk texturing, making it ideal for those who want to experiment and perfect their craft. Compared to the Barista Express, its assisted tamping provides more consistent puck preparation, but the setup can be intimidating for beginners. It’s a larger machine, requiring ample counter space, and the price reflects its advanced features. This makes it perfect for serious hobbyists willing to invest in precision, though novices may find the learning curve steep.
Pros:- Integrated grinder with 25 adjustable settings
- Assisted tamping for consistent puck preparation
- Powerful steam wand for microfoam and latte art
- Customizable brewing parameters
Cons:- Complex setup may challenge beginners
- Larger size requires dedicated counter space
- Higher price point for advanced features
Best for: Experienced home baristas seeking high precision, customization, and professional features
Not ideal for: Beginners or small kitchens where space and simplicity are priorities
- Capacity:250g Bean Hopper, 2L Water Tank
- Grind Settings:25
- Portafilter Size:54mm
- Included Accessories:Milk Jug, Filter Baskets, Water Filter Holder, Trimming Tool, Cleaning Tablets
Our verdict“Best suited for dedicated coffee enthusiasts aiming for professional-quality espresso with maximum control, despite the learning curve.”
Breville BES876BSS Barista Express Impress, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Breville BES876BSS Barista Express Impress offers a comprehensive set of features for those who want to craft café-quality drinks at home with ease. Its manual microfoam wand and auto-correct dose make milk texturing and dosing straightforward, while the conical burr grinder with 25 settings ensures fresh, flavorful beans. The assisted tamping simplifies puck preparation, reducing variability, but setup can be complicated for newcomers. Its bulky size and higher price point might deter casual users or those with limited space. This machine makes the most sense for committed home baristas who desire professional results without the expense of commercial equipment, despite some complexity in setup.
Pros:- Manual microfoam for latte art
- Auto-correct dosing for consistency
- Integrated grinder with 25 settings
- Includes free coffee beans with registration
Cons:- Complex setup can challenge beginners
- Relatively large footprint
- Higher price compared to basic models
Best for: Home baristas aiming for professional-quality espresso with user-friendly features
Not ideal for: Beginners or those with limited space who prefer simpler, more compact machines
- Capacity:250g Bean Hopper, 2L Water Tank
- Grind Settings:25
- Included Accessories:54mm Portafilter, Milk Jug, Filter Baskets, Water Filter Holder, Trimming Tool, Cleaning Tablets
- Features:Manual Microfoam, Auto Dose, Assisted Tamping, PID Temperature Control, Hot Water
Our verdict“Ideal for serious coffee lovers who want professional features with a user-friendly design, despite the size and price.”
How We Picked
The products were evaluated based on their performance, usability, build quality, and value for money. We prioritized machines that offer consistent espresso quality, ease of operation, and durability. Additional factors included maintenance needs, feature sets, and customer feedback. Products were ranked to highlight those that best serve different user needs, from casual coffee drinkers to aspiring baristas, ensuring a well-rounded selection for various budgets and skill levels.Factors to Consider When Choosing Breville
Choosing the right Breville espresso machine involves weighing several key factors. Consider your budget, how much control you want over the brewing process, and the space available in your kitchen. Understanding these factors helps prevent common mistakes, like overpaying for features you won’t use or buying a machine that’s too complex for your skill level. This guide covers the main considerations to help you make a confident choice.Performance and Coffee Quality
Look for machines with strong boiler performance and consistent pressure control, as these directly impact espresso quality. Models with conical burr grinders or integrated grinders can improve freshness and flavor but may add to the complexity and cost. Consider whether you prefer straightforward operation or more precise control, as this influences your overall satisfaction and the quality of your daily brew.
Ease of Use and Maintenance
Some Breville models feature intuitive touchscreens, while others rely on manual controls. Think about your comfort level with technology and cleaning routines. Machines with automatic milk frothing or self-cleaning features reduce effort but typically come at a higher price. Avoid models that require frequent, complicated maintenance if you prefer a hassle-free experience.
Build Quality and Durability
Most Breville machines are built with stainless steel exteriors, which resist wear and look stylish over time. Pay attention to the materials of internal components, as higher-quality boilers and valves contribute to longevity. Cheaper models might save money upfront but could require more repairs or replacement sooner, so consider long-term durability when making your choice.
Size and Kitchen Compatibility
Espresso machines vary significantly in size, from compact options to larger, feature-rich models. Measure your available counter space carefully. Compact machines like the Bambino Plus are great for small kitchens but may lack advanced features, whereas larger models can be more versatile but less convenient for tight spaces. Decide how much room you’re willing to allocate for your coffee setup.
Price and Value
While higher-priced models typically offer more customization and durability, they might not be necessary for casual users. Conversely, budget options can deliver good espresso but might lack consistency or advanced features. Consider how much you’re willing to invest upfront and what features are essential for your coffee experience. Sometimes, paying a bit more provides better long-term value and satisfaction.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a higher-priced Breville machine worth it for a beginner?
Higher-priced Breville machines often include more advanced features, better build quality, and greater control, which can be beneficial as you develop your barista skills. However, for complete beginners, a more straightforward, budget-friendly model like the Bambino Plus can be sufficient to learn the basics without feeling overwhelmed. The key is balancing your current skill level with your long-term goals for coffee brewing.
Do I need a built-in grinder with my Breville espresso machine?
Built-in grinders provide fresh grounds for each shot, enhancing flavor and convenience. They are especially useful if you want a more streamlined setup and don’t own a separate grinder. However, dedicated grinders generally offer more precision and durability, making them better for enthusiasts or those who want maximum control over grind size and consistency. Consider your budget and how much you value convenience versus customization.
Are touchscreen models worth the extra cost?
Touchscreen models like the Barista Touch simplify operation and often include programmable profiles, making brewing more straightforward. This feature can be a real time-saver and reduce user error. However, they tend to be more expensive and might have more parts that could require repairs. If you prefer tactile controls or are budget-conscious, a manual model might suit you better.
How important is the material finish on a Breville machine?
The finish, often brushed stainless steel, impacts both aesthetics and durability. A high-quality finish resists fingerprints and scratches, maintaining a sleek look over time. Cheaper finishes might look less appealing after regular use. If you value a stylish, long-lasting appearance, investing in a model with a premium finish makes sense, especially for a kitchen centerpiece.
Can I get café-quality espresso at home with a Breville?
Yes, many Breville machines are designed to produce professional-quality espresso, especially higher-end models with precise temperature and pressure controls. However, achieving barista-level results also depends on your technique, coffee beans, and grind size. Investing in a good machine is the first step, but mastering the brewing process is equally important for café-quality drinks at home.
Conclusion
For most users, the Breville BES870XL Barista Express offers the best balance of performance, price, and ease of use, making it the ideal overall pick. Those seeking a premium experience with advanced features will appreciate the Barista Touch models, although they come at a higher cost. Beginners or casual drinkers should consider compact options like the Bambino Plus for simplicity. If you’re a coffee enthusiast wanting durability and customization, investing in higher-end models is worth considering. Ultimately, your choice depends on your skill level, budget, and long-term coffee goals.
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