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Breville stands out in the espresso machine market for its blend of innovation, build quality, and user-friendly features. The Breville Bambino Plus is often praised for its quick heat-up and compact size, making it ideal for small kitchens. Meanwhile, the Breville Barista Express offers professional-grade controls at a more accessible price point, perfect for home baristas. The main tradeoffs often involve balancing price, complexity, and size—more advanced machines tend to be larger and pricier, while compact options may sacrifice some features. Continue reading for a detailed breakdown of these top picks and what makes each one unique.

10
compared
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brands
Which Breville should you buy?
★ Top Pick
Breville BES880BSS Barista Tou
Best Overall for Customization and Ease of Use
User-friendly touch screen interface
See on Amazon →
Single users or couples with limited space who want quick, quality espresso at home.
Breville Bambino Plus Espresso
Compact size suitable for small kitchens
View on Amazon →
Home baristas starting out and wanting a comprehensive, all-in-one machine with manual control.
Breville BES870BSXL Barista Ex
Built-in grinder for fresh coffee grounds
View on Amazon →
Coffee lovers who want consistent, high-quality espresso with some automation for home use.
Breville BES876BSS Barista Exp
Built-in conical burr grinder with 25 settings
View on Amazon →
Home baristas interested in manual control and learning the craft of espresso making.
Breville BES870XL Barista Expr
Built-in grinder for fresh grounds
View on Amazon →
Pros & cons at a glance
Breville Bambino Plus Espresso
✓ Compact size suitable for small kitchens
✗ Limited to semi-automatic operation, reducing control
Breville BES870BSXL Barista Ex
✓ Built-in grinder for fresh coffee grounds
✗ Relatively high power consumption
Breville BES876BSS Barista Exp
✓ Built-in conical burr grinder with 25 settings
✗ Complex for casual users due to advanced features
Breville BES870XL Barista Expr
✓ Built-in grinder for fresh grounds
✗ Relatively large and heavy for small kitchens
Breville BES881BSS Barista Tou
✓ User-friendly touchscreen interface
✗ May be complex for total beginners
Breville BES880BSS Barista Tou
✓ User-friendly touch screen interface
✗ Relatively high power consumption
Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro
✓ Fast heat-up with ThermoJet technology
✗ Limited capacity for busy households
Breville Bambino Espresso Mach
✓ Quick heat-up with ThermoJet technology
✗ Limited to home use, not commercial-grade
Breville BES870BTR Barista Exp
✓ Built-in conical burr grinder for fresh grounds
✗ Relatively high power consumption
Breville Barista Express Espre
✓ Integrated grinder with dose control
✗ Remanufactured condition may vary

Complete the kit

HARRIS Coffee Machine Cleaner Descaler Descaling Solution...
HARRIS Coffee Machine Cleaner Descaler Descaling Solution…
Add to your setup →
Roobi Breville Compatible Descaling Solution, 2 Pack | Sp...
Roobi Breville Compatible Descaling Solution, 2 Pack | Sp…
Add to your setup →
Coffee Machine Descaler Descaling Solution - 33.8oz (10 U...
Coffee Machine Descaler Descaling Solution – 33.8oz (10 U…
Add to your setup →

Key Takeaways

  • The lineup is heavily dominated by semi-automatic machines with varying feature sets for different skill levels.
  • The Barista Express models consistently rank high for value, offering professional features at accessible prices.
  • Compact options like the Bambino Plus are excellent for limited space but lack some advanced customization.
  • Premium models like the Barista Touch provide touchscreen controls but come at a significantly higher price.
  • Build quality and ease of maintenance are consistent strengths across Breville‘s lineup, but price varies greatly.
2
Breville BES870BSXL Barista Ex
Best for Beginners and All-in-One Brewing
1
Breville Bambino Plus Espresso
Best Compact for Small Spaces
3
Breville BES876BSS Barista Exp
Best for Precision and Consistency

Our Top Breville Picks

Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless SteelBreville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless SteelBest Compact for Small SpacesControl Panel: YesCup Capacity: 1 or 2 cupsSteam Button: YesVIEW ON AMAZONSee Our Full Breakdown
Breville BES870BSXL Barista Express Espresso Machine, Black SesameBreville BES870BSXL Barista Express Espresso Machine, Black SesameBest for Beginners and All-in-One BrewingBean Hopper Capacity: 1/2 lbWater Tank Capacity: 67 ozPower: 1600 WattsVIEW ON AMAZONSee Our Full Breakdown
Breville BES876BSS Barista Express Impress Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless SteelBreville BES876BSS Barista Express Impress Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless SteelBest for Precision and ConsistencyWeight: not specifiedCapacity: 250g bean hopper, 2L water tankGrind Settings: 25VIEW ON AMAZONSee Our Full Breakdown
Breville BES870XL Barista Express Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless SteelBreville BES870XL Barista Express Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless SteelBest for Traditional Manual ControlIncluded: Razor Dose Trimming Tool, 54mm Stainless Steel Portafilter, Filter Baskets, Coffee Scoop, Tamper, Milk Jug, Cleaning Tools, Water FilterBean Hopper Capacity: 1/2 lbWater Tank Capacity: 67 ozVIEW ON AMAZONSee Our Full Breakdown
Breville BES881BSS Barista Touch Impress Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless SteelBreville BES881BSS Barista Touch Impress Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless SteelBest for Ease and CustomizationMaterial: Brushed Stainless SteelType: Semi-automaticFeatures: Built-in grinder, touchscreen, cold extractionVIEW ON AMAZONSee Our Full Breakdown
Breville BES880BSS Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless SteelBreville BES880BSS Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless SteelBest Overall for Customization and Ease of UseIncluded Accessories: 54mm Full Stainless Steel Portafilter, Single and Double Wall Filter Baskets, 480ml Stainless Steel Jug, ClaroSwiss Water Filter, Razor Precision Dose Trimming Tool, Cleaning Kit, Water Hardness Test StripBean Hopper Capacity: 1/2 lbWater Tank Capacity: 67 ozVIEW ON AMAZONSee Our Full Breakdown
Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless SteelBreville BES878BSS Barista Pro Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless SteelBest for Intermediate Users Who Want Control and SpeedCapacity: 67 oz Water TankBean Hopper Capacity: 1/2 lbPower: 1680 WattsVIEW ON AMAZONSee Our Full Breakdown
Breville Bambino Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless SteelBreville Bambino Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless SteelBest Compact for BeginnersPower: 1560 WattsVoltage: 110-120 VoltsIncluded Accessories: Cup and 2 cup filter baskets, milk jug, portafilter, tamper, steam wand tip cleaning tool, descaling powderVIEW ON AMAZONSee Our Full Breakdown
Breville BES870BTR Barista Express Espresso Machine, Black TruffleBreville BES870BTR Barista Express Espresso Machine, Black TruffleBest for Serious Home Baristas with Customization NeedsCapacity: 1/2 lb bean hopper, 67 oz water tankPower: 1600 WattsVoltage: 120 VoltsVIEW ON AMAZONSee Our Full Breakdown
Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine, Stainless Steel (Certified Remanufactured)Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine, Stainless Steel (Certified Remanufactured)Best for Budget-Conscious Enthusiasts Who Want the Classic ModelCapacity: 1/2 lb Bean HopperWater Tank: 67 ozIncluded Accessories: 54mm Stainless Steel Portafilter, Coffee Scoop, Integrated Tamper, Milk Jug, Cleaning Tools, Water FilterVIEW ON AMAZONSee Our Full Breakdown
Specs at a glance
BrevillePowerVoltageIncluded AccessoriesWarranty
Breville Bambino Plus Espresso1560 Watts110-120 Volts2 years
Breville BES870BSXL Barista Ex1600 Watts120 VoltsRazor Dose Trimming Tool, 54mm Stainless Steel Portafilter, Filter Baskets, Coffee Scoop, Tamper, Milk Jug, Cleaning Disc, Tablets, Brush Tool, Water Filter & Holder1 Year Limited
Breville BES876BSS Barista Exp54mm stainless steel portafilter, milk jug, filter baskets, water filter holder, trimming tool, cleaning tablets
Breville BES870XL Barista Expr1600 Watts120 Volts1 Year Limited
Breville BES881BSS Barista Tou
Breville BES880BSS Barista Tou1680 Watts110 to 120V54mm Full Stainless Steel Portafilter, Single and Double Wall Filter Baskets, 480ml Stainless Steel Jug, ClaroSwiss Water Filter, Razor Precision Dose Trimming Tool, Cleaning Kit, Water Hardness Test Strip
Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro1680 Watts120 VoltsSingle & Dual Wall Filter Baskets, Razor Precision Dose Trimming Tool, 480 ml Milk Jug, Cleaning Kit, Water Filter2 Year Limited
Breville Bambino Espresso Mach1560 Watts110-120 VoltsCup and 2 cup filter baskets, milk jug, portafilter, tamper, steam wand tip cleaning tool, descaling powder1 Year Limited
Breville BES870BTR Barista Exp1600 Watts120 VoltsStainless steel portafilter, coffee scoop, tamper, milk jug, cleaning tools
Breville Barista Express Espre54mm Stainless Steel Portafilter, Coffee Scoop, Integrated Tamper, Milk Jug, Cleaning Tools, Water Filter

More Details on Our Top Picks

  1. Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel

    Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel

    Best Compact for Small Spaces

    View on Amazon

    The Breville Bambino Plus stands out for its compact size, making it an excellent choice for those with limited kitchen space who still want to make quality espresso. Its adjustable milk temperature and foam texture offer a level of customization usually found in larger machines, yet it keeps the footprint small. Unlike the Breville Barista Express, which includes a built-in grinder and more advanced controls, the Bambino Plus lacks some of those features, trading versatility for simplicity. This makes it more approachable for casual users but less suitable for those wanting to experiment extensively. The high power draw (1560 Watts) could be a concern for kitchens with limited electrical capacity. Overall, this machine is perfect for apartment dwellers or those prioritizing ease of use over extensive features.

    Pros:
    • Compact size suitable for small kitchens
    • Adjustable milk temperature and foam texture
    • Includes a 2-year warranty
    Cons:
    • Limited to semi-automatic operation, reducing control
    • Power may be high for some electrical systems

    Best for: Single users or couples with limited space who want quick, quality espresso at home.

    Not ideal for: Coffee enthusiasts seeking advanced customization or those with small electrical setups, due to high power consumption.

    • Control Panel:Yes
    • Cup Capacity:1 or 2 cups
    • Steam Button:Yes
    • Adjustable Milk Temperature and Texture:Yes
    • Warranty:2 years
    • Power:1560 Watts
    • Voltage:110-120 Volts
    Our verdict
    “A top pick for those needing a space-saving machine that delivers quality espresso with straightforward controls.”
  2. Breville BES870BSXL Barista Express Espresso Machine, Black Sesame

    Breville BES870BSXL Barista Express Espresso Machine, Black Sesame

    Best for Beginners and All-in-One Brewing

    View on Amazon

    The Breville Barista Express makes a compelling case as the best entry point for beginners wanting a full-featured espresso setup. Its built-in grinder, with adjustable settings, simplifies the process and ensures fresh grounds for every shot—something the Breville BES876BSS also offers, but with more automation. The extensive accessory package makes it easier to produce professional-quality drinks without additional purchases. However, its 1600 Watts of power and 67 oz water tank mean it’s best suited for moderate use, and the learning curve can be steep for newcomers unfamiliar with espresso techniques. Compared to more automated models, it requires more manual skill but rewards with greater control and customization.

    Pros:
    • Built-in grinder for fresh coffee grounds
    • Adjustable grind size and manual override
    • Includes comprehensive accessories for brewing and cleaning
    Cons:
    • Relatively high power consumption
    • Limited water tank capacity for frequent use
    • Steeper learning curve for beginners

    Best for: Home baristas starting out and wanting a comprehensive, all-in-one machine with manual control.

    Not ideal for: Users with limited counter space or those who prefer plug-and-play convenience over learning manual techniques.

    • Bean Hopper Capacity:1/2 lb
    • Water Tank Capacity:67 oz
    • Power:1600 Watts
    • Voltage:120 Volts
    • Included Accessories:Razor Dose Trimming Tool, 54mm Stainless Steel Portafilter, Filter Baskets, Coffee Scoop, Tamper, Milk Jug, Cleaning Disc, Tablets, Brush Tool, Water Filter & Holder
    • Warranty:1 Year Limited
    Our verdict
    “Ideal for beginners willing to learn manual espresso-making with a versatile all-in-one setup.”
  3. Breville BES876BSS Barista Express Impress Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel

    Breville BES876BSS Barista Express Impress Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel

    Best for Precision and Consistency

    View on Amazon

    The Breville BES876BSS emphasizes precision with its integrated conical burr grinder, 25 grind settings, and assisted tamping, making it a strong choice for those seeking consistent results. Its advanced features, like PID temperature control and microfoam milk texturing, align with higher-end models like the Breville BES881BSS, but with a focus on ease through assisted tamping. The design caters to serious home enthusiasts who want cafe-quality drinks without the complexity of manual tamping. The absence of a specified weight and potentially steep learning curve may limit its appeal for casual users. It balances automation and control, making it a good middle ground for dedicated hobbyists.

    Pros:
    • Built-in conical burr grinder with 25 settings
    • Precise temperature and flow control
    • Assisted tamping for consistent results
    • Includes useful accessories like milk jug and cleaning tablets
    Cons:
    • No specific price listed, potentially costly
    • Complex for casual users due to advanced features
    • Weight not specified, possibly heavy

    Best for: Coffee lovers who want consistent, high-quality espresso with some automation for home use.

    Not ideal for: Beginners or those with limited space, as the machine’s advanced features might be overwhelming and weight might be hefty.

    • Weight:not specified
    • Capacity:250g bean hopper, 2L water tank
    • Grind Settings:25
    • Included Accessories:54mm stainless steel portafilter, milk jug, filter baskets, water filter holder, trimming tool, cleaning tablets
    • Heating System:ThermoCoil with PID control
    • Tamping:Assisted tamping with 10kg pressure
    Our verdict
    “Perfect for dedicated espresso enthusiasts wanting consistent, professional-level results at home.”
  4. Breville BES870XL Barista Express Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel

    Breville BES870XL Barista Express Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel

    Best for Traditional Manual Control

    View on Amazon

    The Breville BES870XL offers a more manual approach to espresso making, appealing to those who want full control over their brew process. Its built-in grinder with adjustable settings provides fresh grounds, and the 54mm stainless steel portafilter ensures a robust extraction. Compared with the Breville BES876BSS, it is more straightforward in design but still requires user skill to master. Its 67 oz water tank suits moderate use, though the machine’s size and weight might be a drawback for smaller kitchens. For those who want to learn and perfect their espresso craft, this model provides a solid foundation, but it demands patience and familiarity with brewing techniques.

    Pros:
    • Built-in grinder for fresh grounds
    • Adjustable grind amount and manual override
    • Includes comprehensive accessories for brewing
    Cons:
    • Relatively large and heavy for small kitchens
    • Requires learning to use effectively
    • Price may be high for casual users

    Best for: Home baristas interested in manual control and learning the craft of espresso making.

    Not ideal for: Casual users or those with limited space, due to its size and the learning curve involved.

    • Included:Razor Dose Trimming Tool, 54mm Stainless Steel Portafilter, Filter Baskets, Coffee Scoop, Tamper, Milk Jug, Cleaning Tools, Water Filter
    • Bean Hopper Capacity:1/2 lb
    • Water Tank Capacity:67 oz
    • Power:1600 Watts
    • Voltage:120 Volts
    • Warranty:1 Year Limited
    Our verdict
    “A great choice for aspiring baristas who want hands-on control and quality at home.”
  5. Breville BES881BSS Barista Touch Impress Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel

    Breville BES881BSS Barista Touch Impress Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel

    Best for Ease and Customization

    View on Amazon

    The Breville BES881BSS Barista Touch combines automation with customization through its intuitive touchscreen interface, making it easier for users to craft their favorite drinks. The built-in grinder and 8 preset drinks streamline the process, while the addition of cold extraction functionality broadens beverage options, including cold brew. Compared to the manual-style Breville BES870XL, this model simplifies operation without sacrificing quality. Its high-tech features and presets can, however, overwhelm beginners who prefer straightforward machines. This pick is well-suited for those who want a high degree of control with minimal effort, especially if they enjoy experimenting with drink recipes.

    Pros:
    • User-friendly touchscreen interface
    • Built-in grinder for convenience
    • Includes cold extraction for cold brew options
    Cons:
    • May be complex for total beginners
    • Potentially high price point
    • Limited to espresso and cold brew functions

    Best for: Coffee enthusiasts seeking a user-friendly, customizable espresso experience with modern features.

    Not ideal for: Absolute beginners or those on a tight budget, due to its potentially high cost and complexity.

    • Material:Brushed Stainless Steel
    • Type:Semi-automatic
    • Features:Built-in grinder, touchscreen, cold extraction
    • Presets:8 café favorites
    Our verdict
    “Designed for users who want a balance of automation and customization with modern tech features.”
  6. Breville BES880BSS Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel

    Breville BES880BSS Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel

    Best Overall for Customization and Ease of Use

    View on Amazon

    The Breville Barista Touch stands out for its user-friendly touch screen interface and extensive customizable settings, making it ideal for home baristas who value precision and convenience. Compared to the Breville Bambino, it offers a broader range of drink options and personalized profiles, but at the cost of higher power consumption and a more complex setup. Its built-in grinder ensures fresh grounds for each shot, elevating flavor quality. The limited water tank capacity might mean frequent refills during busy mornings, which is a tradeoff for its advanced features. Overall, this machine is perfect for those who want a semi-automatic with smart features and don’t mind the size or cost.

    Pros:
    • User-friendly touch screen interface
    • Customizable drink profiles and settings
    • Built-in grinder for fresh grounds
    • Includes comprehensive accessories
    Cons:
    • Relatively high power consumption
    • Limited water tank capacity for frequent use
    • Complex for users new to espresso machines

    Best for: Home baristas seeking a highly customizable, touchscreen espresso experience with integrated grinding

    Not ideal for: Beginners who prefer simple, straightforward machines or those with limited counter space

    • Included Accessories:54mm Full Stainless Steel Portafilter, Single and Double Wall Filter Baskets, 480ml Stainless Steel Jug, ClaroSwiss Water Filter, Razor Precision Dose Trimming Tool, Cleaning Kit, Water Hardness Test Strip
    • Bean Hopper Capacity:1/2 lb
    • Water Tank Capacity:67 oz
    • Touch Screen:Yes
    • Pre-Programmed Favorites:5
    • Adjustable Grind Control:Yes
    • Programmable Milk Temp & Texture:Yes
    • Power:1680 Watts
    • Voltage:110 to 120V
    Our verdict
    “This pick suits experienced enthusiasts who want a smart, customizable espresso machine with a sleek interface.”
  7. Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel

    Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel

    Best for Intermediate Users Who Want Control and Speed

    View on Amazon

    The Breville Barista Pro offers a streamlined experience with an intuitive LCD interface and rapid heat-up time thanks to its ThermoJet system, making it a step up from the Bambino in control and speed. Its built-in grinder and adjustable grind control enable more precision, but it shares similar capacity limitations for frequent use, which might frustrate heavy users. While it’s easier to operate than fully manual machines, some beginners may still find navigating the LCD and adjusting grind settings a bit daunting. Compared with the Barista Express model, it emphasizes speed and simplicity, but sacrifices some customization options. This machine makes the most sense for home users who want quick, quality drinks without the complexity of full manual control.

    Pros:
    • Fast heat-up with ThermoJet technology
    • Intuitive LCD interface
    • Adjustable grind control for personalized brewing
    • Includes a range of accessories
    Cons:
    • Limited capacity for busy households
    • Can be complex for absolute beginners
    • Higher price point relative to basic models

    Best for: Intermediate home baristas who prioritize fast setup and straightforward operation

    Not ideal for: Complete beginners or those needing high-volume capacity for multiple daily drinks

    • Capacity:67 oz Water Tank
    • Bean Hopper Capacity:1/2 lb
    • Power:1680 Watts
    • Voltage:120 Volts
    • Included Accessories:Single & Dual Wall Filter Baskets, Razor Precision Dose Trimming Tool, 480 ml Milk Jug, Cleaning Kit, Water Filter
    • Warranty:2 Year Limited
    Our verdict
    “Ideal for users who want quick, quality espresso with moderate control and minimal fuss.”
  8. Breville Bambino Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel

    Breville Bambino Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel

    Best Compact for Beginners

    View on Amazon

    The Breville Bambino is a compact, easy-to-use espresso machine that appeals to newcomers, thanks to its quick heat-up via ThermoJet technology and automatic milk texturing. Its small footprint makes it perfect for limited kitchens, but it doesn’t offer the same level of control or customization as more advanced models like the Barista Express. While it’s straightforward, some users may find it requires a learning curve to perfect their extraction, especially since it’s designed for home use rather than heavy daily use. Its included basic accessories make setup simple, but those seeking professional-grade control might find it limiting. This machine makes the most sense for beginners or small households looking for quick, consistent coffee without fuss.

    Pros:
    • Quick heat-up with ThermoJet technology
    • Automatic milk texturing for microfoam
    • Compact size fits small kitchens
    • Precise temperature control
    Cons:
    • Limited to home use, not commercial-grade
    • Requires some learning to perfect extraction
    • Includes only basic accessories

    Best for: Beginners or those with limited counter space wanting fast, automatic espresso and milk frothing

    Not ideal for: Experienced baristas or heavy users who need more control and higher capacity

    • Power:1560 Watts
    • Voltage:110-120 Volts
    • Included Accessories:Cup and 2 cup filter baskets, milk jug, portafilter, tamper, steam wand tip cleaning tool, descaling powder
    • Warranty:1 Year Limited
    • Material:Brushed Stainless Steel
    • Heating System:ThermoJet
    Our verdict
    “Perfect for beginners who want a compact, quick-start espresso experience with minimal manual fuss.”
  9. Breville BES870BTR Barista Express Espresso Machine, Black Truffle

    Breville BES870BTR Barista Express Espresso Machine, Black Truffle

    Best for Serious Home Baristas with Customization Needs

    View on Amazon

    The Breville Barista Express is a staple for those who want hands-on control over their espresso, thanks to its built-in conical burr grinder, digital PID temperature control, and microfoam steam wand. It surpasses the Bambino in customization, offering grind size and dose adjustments for tailored extraction. However, its higher power draw and limited water capacity mean it’s better suited for daily use in a dedicated coffee corner rather than high-volume environments. Its manual operation and learning curve might challenge absolute beginners, but seasoned enthusiasts will appreciate the control it offers. Compared to the Barista Pro, it’s a more manual, tactile experience, which appeals to those who enjoy the craft of espresso making.

    Pros:
    • Built-in conical burr grinder for fresh grounds
    • Precise digital PID temperature control
    • Microfoam steam wand for latte art
    • Includes various accessories and cleaning tools
    Cons:
    • Relatively high power consumption
    • Limited water tank capacity for frequent use
    • Steeper learning curve for beginners

    Best for: Dedicated home coffee enthusiasts who want detailed control and a manual experience

    Not ideal for: Casual users or those who prefer quick, automated drinks without much fuss

    • Capacity:1/2 lb bean hopper, 67 oz water tank
    • Power:1600 Watts
    • Voltage:120 Volts
    • Included Accessories:Stainless steel portafilter, coffee scoop, tamper, milk jug, cleaning tools
    • Features:Built-in grinder, digital PID temperature control, microfoam steam wand, grind size dial, adjustable grind amount
    Our verdict
    “Best suited for passionate home baristas who want control and quality over automation.”
  10. Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine, Stainless Steel (Certified Remanufactured)

    Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine, Stainless Steel (Certified Remanufactured)

    Best for Budget-Conscious Enthusiasts Who Want the Classic Model

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    The Breville Barista Express in its remanufactured form offers a compelling option for those who want the core espresso-making experience at a potentially lower price. It provides the same integrated grinder, manual control, and adjustable features as the original, making it a solid choice for budget-conscious buyers willing to accept a pre-owned machine. Its capacity and features are comparable to the new models, but being remanufactured introduces some variability in condition, which might concern meticulous users. Compared to newer models like the Barista Pro, it lacks some speed and interface upgrades, but remains a reliable all-in-one option for those willing to trade a bit of modern polish for savings. It’s best for those comfortable with used or refurbished gear who want manual control without high upfront costs.

    Pros:
    • Integrated grinder with dose control
    • Good build quality for a remanufactured unit
    • Manual microfoam milk texturing
    • Includes essential accessories
    Cons:
    • Remanufactured condition may vary
    • No latest interface or speed improvements
    • Potentially limited warranty coverage

    Best for: Budget-conscious home baristas who want a full-featured machine at a lower cost

    Not ideal for: Users seeking the latest features or a brand-new product with warranty assurance

    • Capacity:1/2 lb Bean Hopper
    • Water Tank:67 oz
    • Included Accessories:54mm Stainless Steel Portafilter, Coffee Scoop, Integrated Tamper, Milk Jug, Cleaning Tools, Water Filter
    • Grind Size Dial:Yes
    • Weight:Unknown
    Our verdict
    “This option suits budget-minded users willing to accept a used or remanufactured machine for a full-featured espresso experience.”
Breville
What makes a great Breville
1
Skill Level and Ease of Use
For beginners, machines with automatic or semi-automatic controls and straightforward interfaces are best, reducing the learning c
2
Size and Kitchen Space
Breville offers compact machines like the Bambino Plus, ideal for small kitchens or minimal countertop space.
3
Feature Set and Customization
Consider whether you want automatic milk frothing, touchscreen controls, or manual pressure adjustments.
4
Maintenance and Durability
Regular cleaning and descaling are essential for longevity and consistent performance.
How to choose your Breville
1
How we picked
This selection process focused on performance, usability, build quality, and value.
2
Skill Level and Ease of Use
For beginners, machines with automatic or semi-automatic controls and straightforward interfaces are best, reducing the
3
Size and Kitchen Space
Breville offers compact machines like the Bambino Plus, ideal for small kitchens or minimal countertop space.
4
Feature Set and Customization
Consider whether you want automatic milk frothing, touchscreen controls, or manual pressure adjustments.
5
Maintenance and Durability
Regular cleaning and descaling are essential for longevity and consistent performance.
Vetted Breville ·
The best Breville, compared
★ Winner Breville BES880BSS Barista Tou
Best Overall for Customization and Ease of Use
10compared

How We Picked

This selection process focused on performance, usability, build quality, and value. We prioritized machines that deliver consistent espresso quality, ease of use for different skill levels, and durability over time. Devices with versatile features, such as manual controls and steam wand quality, were rated higher, especially if they balance cost and professional results. Machines were also evaluated for their maintenance ease and available accessories, ensuring that each pick offers a worthwhile experience without unnecessary complexity. The ranking reflects a combination of price, feature set, and user feedback from a broad range of home barista needs.
Everyday → specialist
Everyday & valuePremium & specialist
Which Breville fits you?
The everyday user
All-round, reliable
The enthusiast
Premium & high-performance
The gift-giver
Looks & craftsmanship

Factors to Consider When Choosing Breville

Choosing the right Breville espresso machine depends on several key factors. Understanding what features matter most to your brewing style and space can help you avoid overspending on unnecessary functions or ending up with a machine that doesn’t meet your needs. Here are the main considerations to keep in mind:

Skill Level and Ease of Use

For beginners, machines with automatic or semi-automatic controls and straightforward interfaces are best, reducing the learning curve. More advanced users may prefer manual controls and customizable settings for precise brewing. Misjudging your skill level can lead to frustration or underutilized features, so choose a machine that aligns with your comfort level and willingness to learn.

Size and Kitchen Space

Breville offers compact machines like the Bambino Plus, ideal for small kitchens or minimal countertop space. Larger models, such as the Barista Touch, often include more features but require more room. Assess your available space carefully, as larger machines may also be heavier and less portable, which could influence your daily use and maintenance.

Feature Set and Customization

Consider whether you want automatic milk frothing, touchscreen controls, or manual pressure adjustments. Machines like the Barista Express are versatile but require more hands-on operation, while models like the Bambino Plus offer quick setup with less fuss. Overpaying for features you won’t use can be a common mistake, so match the machine’s capabilities to your brewing habits.

Price and Long-Term Value

Higher-priced models tend to offer more durability, advanced features, and better build quality, but not always better espresso quality. Balance your budget with the features you truly need. Think about the long-term costs of maintenance and accessories, which can add up over time and impact overall value.

Maintenance and Durability

Regular cleaning and descaling are essential for longevity and consistent performance. Machines with straightforward maintenance routines save time and reduce hassle. Pay attention to the availability of replacement parts and accessories, ensuring your investment remains functional and easy to care for over years of use.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a more expensive Breville machine worth the extra cost?

Higher-priced Breville models often feature advanced controls, touchscreen interfaces, and more durable components, which can justify the investment if you value customization and convenience. However, for many home users, mid-range models like the Barista Express provide excellent espresso quality without the premium price. It’s worth considering whether those extra features align with your brewing preferences and willingness to maintain more complex machines.

Can I use pre-ground coffee with Breville machines?

Yes, many Breville models, including the Barista Express and Bambino Plus, allow you to use pre-ground coffee through their dedicated portafilter. However, for the freshest and most flavorful espresso, grinding beans just before brewing is recommended. Using pre-ground coffee can be a convenient option if you’re short on time or want to avoid investing in a grinder.

How difficult is it to learn to operate a Breville espresso machine?

Most Breville machines are designed for ease of use, with features like automatic milk frothing and programmable settings. Beginners may need some time to master tamping and dialing in the right grind size, but the interface and guides provided by Breville help simplify the process. Investing a little time in learning will yield better espresso and a more satisfying brewing experience.

What maintenance does a Breville espresso machine require?

Regular cleaning of the portafilter, drip tray, and steam wand is essential for maintaining performance. Descaling is necessary if you have hard water, which can affect machine longevity. Many models include cleaning alerts and routines to help, but routine upkeep is key to ensuring consistent espresso quality and avoiding costly repairs over time.

Are Breville machines suitable for making milk-based drinks like lattes and cappuccinos?

Yes, most Breville espresso machines come with a steam wand capable of frothing milk for various drinks. The quality of the steam wand and ease of use vary across models; higher-end machines tend to produce more velvety microfoam. If you frequently make milk-based drinks, investing in a model with a powerful, easy-to-control steam wand is worth considering to achieve barista-quality results.

Conclusion

For those seeking the best overall experience, the Breville Barista Express offers a balanced mix of features, performance, and value. If budget is a concern, the Bambino Plus provides quick and easy espresso at a compact size, perfect for beginners or small spaces. Serious enthusiasts or those willing to invest more should consider the Barista Touch for advanced controls and touchscreen convenience. For newcomers, simplicity and ease of use matter most, making models like the Bambino Plus ideal. Lastly, those with specific needs, such as space constraints or high-volume brewing, should focus on models tailored to those factors, ensuring every dollar spent enhances their coffee routine.

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