When it comes to espresso machines, Breville stands out for its blend of innovation, build quality, and user-friendly features. The Breville BES880BSS Barista Touch is our top overall pick thanks to its intuitive touch interface and consistent brewing, making it ideal for home baristas seeking convenience. For those on a budget, the Breville Bambino Espresso Machine offers solid performance at a lower price point, while the Breville BES870BSS Barista Express balances quality and affordability for intermediate users. Buyers often face tradeoffs between price, features, and ease of use—this guide helps clarify which models fit different needs. Continue reading for a detailed breakdown of each option and how to choose the right Breville for your coffee setup.
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Key Takeaways
- The top-tier models like the Barista Touch excel in automation and ease of use, but come at a higher price.
- Entry-level options like the Bambino are reliable for beginners but lack advanced features found in premium models.
- The differences in build quality and materials are significant, with brushed stainless steel models offering greater durability.
- Many Breville machines share core features, but the key distinctions lie in user interface, size, and customization options.
- Pricing varies widely; understanding which features are essential helps avoid overspending on unnecessary extras.
| Breville Bambino Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best Compact for Beginners | 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 | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES880BSS Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for Personalized Coffee & Ease of Use | Included Accessories: 54mm portafilter, single/double wall baskets, 480ml jug, water filter, trimming tool, cleaning kit | Bean Hopper Capacity: 1/2 lb | Water Tank Capacity: 67 oz | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES870BSXL Barista Express Espresso Machine, Black Sesame |  | Best for Hands-On Control & High-Quality Espresso | Bean Hopper Capacity: 1/2 lb | Water Tank Capacity: 67 oz | Power: 1600 Watts | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for Quick, Precise Espresso & Modern Operation | Capacity: 67 oz water tank | Bean Hopper Capacity: 1/2 lb | Power: 1680 Watts | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES881BSS Barista Touch Impress Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for Versatile & Advanced Coffee Options | Material: Brushed Stainless Steel | Type: Semi-automatic espresso machine | Features: Built-in grinder, touchscreen, cold extraction | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES870XL Barista Express Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best Overall for Versatile Home Baristas | Bean Hopper Capacity: 1/2 lb | Water Tank Capacity: 67 oz | Power: 1600 Watts | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine, Stainless Steel (Certified Remanufactured) |  | Best Value for Entry-Level Enthusiasts | 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 | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES876BSS Barista Express Impress Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for Precision and Consistency with Tamping Assistance | Weight: Not specified | Capacity: 250g bean hopper, 2L water tank | Grind Settings: 25 | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best Compact for Space-Conscious Users | Control Panel: Yes | Cup Capacity: 1 or 2 cups | Steam Button: Yes | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES870BTR Barista Express Espresso Machine, Black Truffle |  | Best for Customization and Manual Control | Capacity: 1/2 lb bean hopper, 67 oz water tank | Power: 1600 Watts | Included Accessories: Stainless steel portafilter, tamper, milk jug, cleaning tools | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville | Included Accessories | Power |
|---|---|---|
| Breville Bambino Espresso Mach | Cup and 2 cup filter baskets, milk jug, portafilter, tamper, steam wand tip cleaning tool, descaling powder | 1560 Watts |
| Breville BES880BSS Barista Tou | 54mm portafilter, single/double wall baskets, 480ml jug, water filter, trimming tool, cleaning kit | — |
| Breville BES870BSXL Barista Ex | Razor dose trimming tool, portafilter, filter baskets, scoop, tamper, milk jug, cleaning disc, tablets, brush, water filter | 1600 Watts |
| Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro | Filter baskets, trimming tool, milk jug, cleaning kit, water filter | 1680 Watts |
| Breville BES881BSS Barista Tou | — | — |
| Breville BES870XL Barista Expr | Razor Dose Trimming Tool, 54mm Stainless Steel Portafilter, Filter Baskets, Coffee Scoop, Tamper, Milk Jug, Cleaning Tools, Water Filter | 1600 Watts |
| Breville Barista Express Espre | 54mm Stainless Steel Portafilter, Coffee Scoop, Integrated Tamper, Milk Jug, Cleaning Tools, Water Filter | — |
| Breville BES876BSS Barista Exp | 54mm stainless steel portafilter, milk jug, filter baskets, cleaning tablets | — |
| Breville Bambino Plus Espresso | — | 1560 Watts |
| Breville BES870BTR Barista Exp | Stainless steel portafilter, tamper, milk jug, cleaning tools | 1600 Watts |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Breville Bambino Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Breville Bambino stands out as an ideal choice for those new to home espresso brewing who prioritize quick setup and space-saving design. Its ThermoJet technology ensures rapid heat-up, making it perfect for mornings when time is limited. Compared to larger, more feature-rich machines like the Barista Pro, the Bambino sacrifices some customization options for simplicity and affordability. Its automatic milk texturing and precise temperature control help achieve decent café-quality drinks, but it requires some learning to master perfect extraction. The basic accessories included mean you won’t be overwhelmed initially, although serious enthusiasts might find it lacking in advanced features. This pick makes the most sense for apartment dwellers or first-timers who want reliable espresso without cluttering their kitchen.Pros:- Quick heat-up with ThermoJet technology
- Automatic steam wand for microfoam and latte art
- Compact design fits easily in small kitchens
Cons:- Limited to home use, not suitable for high-volume environments
- Requires some practice to perfect espresso extraction
Best for: Beginners or small-space dwellers seeking a straightforward, reliable espresso machine.
Not ideal for: Experienced baristas or those wanting extensive customization and advanced features, as it offers limited control.
- 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
- Material:Brushed Stainless Steel
- Heating System:ThermoJet
- Control Panel:Digital with 1 or 2 Cups, Hot Water, and Steam buttons
Our verdict“This machine is perfect for beginners who want quick, decent espresso without taking up much space.”
Breville BES880BSS Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Barista Touch elevates home espresso with its intuitive touchscreen interface and built-in grinder, making customization straightforward. Unlike the Bambino, it offers more control over each drink, including pre-programmed favorites and adjustable settings, catering to those who want a semi-automatic experience with minimal fuss. Its built-in grinder ensures freshness, but the higher power consumption and slightly larger footprint could be drawbacks for small kitchens. While it is more user-friendly than traditional semi-automatic machines like the BES870BSXL, it still demands some familiarity with espresso brewing principles. This machine suits coffee enthusiasts who value personalization and convenience without sacrificing quality.Pros:- Touchscreen interface for easy customization
- Built-in grinder for fresh grounds
- Pre-programmed drink favorites for quick brewing
- Adjustable grind control and milk temp/texture
Cons:- Relatively high power consumption
- Limited water tank capacity for frequent use
- May be complex for absolute beginners
Best for: Home baristas seeking a customizable, semi-automatic experience with easy operation.
Not ideal for: Complete beginners or those with limited counter space, given its higher complexity and size.
- Included Accessories:54mm portafilter, single/double wall baskets, 480ml jug, water filter, trimming tool, cleaning kit
- Bean Hopper Capacity:1/2 lb
- Water Tank Capacity:67 oz
- Touch Screen:Yes
- Pre-Programmed Favorites:5
- Adjustable Grind Control:Yes
Our verdict“Ideal for coffee lovers who want a balance of automation and control in a sleek, user-friendly machine.”
Breville BES870BSXL Barista Express Espresso Machine, Black Sesame
The Barista Express offers a comprehensive espresso experience, combining manual control with a built-in grinder, making it well-suited for those who enjoy adjusting grind size and tamping for each shot. Compared to the semi-automatic Barista Touch, it lacks a touchscreen but provides tactile control, appealing to users who prefer a more traditional approach. Its extensive accessories support both brewing and cleaning, but its size and power consumption may be less appealing for small kitchens or casual users. This model is ideal for those willing to spend time mastering their craft, producing consistently excellent espresso and milk drinks once dialed in.Pros:- Built-in grinder for fresh coffee grounds
- Adjustable grind size and manual override
- Includes extensive accessories for brewing and maintenance
- Produces high-quality espresso and milk drinks
Cons:- Relatively high power consumption
- Limited water tank capacity for frequent use
- Requires learning to operate effectively
Best for: Home baristas who enjoy hands-on brewing and want a machine that encourages skill development.
Not ideal for: Casual coffee drinkers or those seeking quick, set-and-forget operation, as it requires more manual effort.
- Bean Hopper Capacity:1/2 lb
- Water Tank Capacity:67 oz
- Power:1600 Watts
- Voltage:120 Volts
- Included Accessories:Razor dose trimming tool, portafilter, filter baskets, scoop, tamper, milk jug, cleaning disc, tablets, brush, water filter
- Warranty:1 Year
Our verdict“Best suited for dedicated home baristas who want control and quality over convenience.”
Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Barista Pro advances the espresso experience with its intuitive LCD interface and built-in grinder, making it easier to produce consistent shots efficiently. Its sleek design and quick heat-up give it an edge over the BES870BSXL, especially for users who appreciate modern tech. While its capacity is comparable, the LCD display simplifies adjustments, leading to better control without complexity. However, its high power draw and potential learning curve for newcomers mean it’s best for those ready to refine their skills. This model caters to users who want a semi-automatic machine that combines speed, precision, and modern features.Pros:- LCD interface for easy operation
- Built-in grinder for convenience
- Adjustable grind control for precision
- Fast heat-up and brewing times
Cons:- Relatively high power consumption
- Requires some familiarity with espresso making
- Limited capacity for high-volume use
Best for: Experienced home enthusiasts seeking a fast, precise, and visually intuitive espresso setup.
Not ideal for: Absolute beginners or those with limited kitchen space, due to its advanced features and size.
- Capacity:67 oz water tank
- Bean Hopper Capacity:1/2 lb
- Power:1680 Watts
- Voltage:120 Volts
- Included Accessories:Filter baskets, trimming tool, milk jug, cleaning kit, water filter
- Warranty:2 Year
Our verdict“Designed for users who want quick, consistent results with a modern touch, once familiar with its features.”
Breville BES881BSS Barista Touch Impress Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The BES881BSS combines semi-automatic espresso making with a touchscreen interface, offering a broad range of customizable drinks and the ability to prepare cold brew via cold extraction. Compared to the simpler Bambino or even the Barista Express, it provides more drink options and advanced features, appealing to those who want variety at home. Its built-in grinder ensures freshness, but the high price tag and somewhat complex interface might challenge newcomers. This machine is ideal for seasoned coffee lovers who desire a versatile, all-in-one solution that bridges manual control with digital convenience.Pros:- Touchscreen interface with customizable options
- Built-in grinder for convenience
- Includes cold extraction for cold brew drinks
- Pre-set 8 café favorites for easy brewing
Cons:- Potentially complex for beginners
- Higher price point
- Limited to espresso and cold brew functionalities
Best for: Advanced home baristas seeking a machine that offers multiple drink styles and customization.
Not ideal for: Entry-level users or those with limited kitchen space, due to its higher cost and feature set.
- Material:Brushed Stainless Steel
- Type:Semi-automatic espresso machine
- Features:Built-in grinder, touchscreen, cold extraction
- Presets:8 café favorites
Our verdict“Best suited for experienced users who want a feature-rich machine with flexibility for multiple drink styles.”
Breville BES870XL Barista Express Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Breville BES870XL stands out as the most complete option, combining a built-in grinder with manual controls, making it ideal for those seeking a true espresso experience at home. Compared to the Bambino Plus, it offers more control over grind size and dose, though it’s bulkier and requires more space. Its extensive accessory kit and high-quality espresso output justify its higher price, but it demands a learning curve for optimal results. The size and weight might be a drawback for small kitchens, but for dedicated enthusiasts, this machine delivers professional-grade drinks with a customizable touch.
Pros:- Built-in grinder for fresh grounds and flavor preservation
- Adjustable grind settings and manual override for customization
- Includes a comprehensive accessory kit for a complete experience
Cons:- Relatively large and heavy, less suitable for small spaces
- Steep learning curve for beginners to master extraction
Best for: Home baristas who want a full-featured, customizable machine with room to grow.
Not ideal for: Casual users or small kitchens where space and ease of use are priorities.
- Bean Hopper Capacity:1/2 lb
- Water Tank Capacity:67 oz
- Power:1600 Watts
- Included Accessories:Razor Dose Trimming Tool, 54mm Stainless Steel Portafilter, Filter Baskets, Coffee Scoop, Tamper, Milk Jug, Cleaning Tools, Water Filter
- Voltage:120 Volts
- Warranty:1 Year Limited
Our verdict“This machine is perfect for serious coffee lovers who want control and quality, despite its size and complexity.”
Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine, Stainless Steel (Certified Remanufactured)
This Breville Barista Express offers the core features of the original, with an integrated grinder and precise temperature control, at a lower upfront cost when remanufactured. It’s a solid choice for those willing to accept the variability of a remanufactured product compared to a brand-new unit like the BES870XL. While it may lack some of the latest refinements, it still provides manual control over grind and extraction, making it suitable for beginners or budget-conscious buyers aiming to upgrade from basic machines. The condition of remanufactured units can vary, so it’s best for buyers comfortable with that tradeoff.
Pros:- Integrated grinder with dose control for fresh, flavorful coffee
- Reasonable price point for feature-rich entry-level machines
- Manual microfoam milk texturing for quality lattes
Cons:- Remanufactured condition may vary, affecting reliability
- Lack of latest features found on newer models
Best for: Budget-conscious home users looking for a capable espresso machine with manual features.
Not ideal for: Casual drinkers or those wanting a brand-new, warranty-backed machine without potential variability.
- 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“A good choice for those seeking affordability without sacrificing essential espresso-making features, provided they’re comfortable with remanufactured gear.”
Breville BES876BSS Barista Express Impress Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The BES876BSS Barista Express Impress elevates the espresso experience with assisted tamping, a feature not present in the standard BES870XL. Its 25 grind settings and precise temperature control help deliver consistent shots, making it ideal for users who want high-quality results without the fuss of manual tamping. While its advanced features appeal to those serious about espresso, the machine’s complexity might be overwhelming for beginners. The lack of a specified weight could make it less portable, but for dedicated home baristas, it offers a balanced mix of automation and control.
Pros:- Built-in conical burr grinder with 25 settings for precise dosing
- Assisted tamping with 10kg pressure for uniform shots
- PID temperature control optimizes extraction
Cons:- Potentially complex for users new to espresso machines
- No specific price listed, possibly on the higher side
Best for: Serious coffee enthusiasts who value consistency and advanced features like assisted tamping.
Not ideal for: Beginners or casual drinkers who prefer simple, straightforward machines.
- Weight:Not specified
- Capacity:250g bean hopper, 2L water tank
- Grind Settings:25
- Included Accessories:54mm stainless steel portafilter, milk jug, filter baskets, cleaning tablets
- Heating System:ThermoCoil with PID control
- Tamping:Assisted with 10kg pressure
Our verdict“Ideal for experienced home baristas seeking consistency and advanced features, though it may be too complex for newcomers.”
Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Bambino Plus prioritizes size without sacrificing essential espresso features, making it a smart pick for small kitchens or apartments. Its compact footprint is a clear advantage over larger machines like the BES870XL or BES876BSS, though it offers fewer manual controls and less customization. The adjustable milk temperature and texture, combined with the built-in steam wand, enable good-quality milk drinks, but the machine’s semi-automatic operation means it may not satisfy those seeking full control. Power consumption is high relative to its size, which could be a concern for some environments.
Pros:- Compact size ideal for small kitchens or apartments
- Adjustable milk temperature and texture for personalized drinks
- Includes a 2-year warranty for peace of mind
Cons:- Limited to semi-automatic operation, less control for advanced users
- Power may be high for some kitchens, increasing utility costs
Best for: Home users with limited space who want quick, quality espresso and milk drinks.
Not ideal for: Serious espresso enthusiasts who need extensive manual control or larger capacity.
- Control Panel:Yes
- Cup Capacity:1 or 2 cups
- Steam Button:Yes
- Adjustable Milk Temperature and Texture:Yes
- Warranty:2 years
- Power:1560 Watts
Our verdict“A well-designed choice for space-limited homes wanting quality espresso with simple operation.”
Breville BES870BTR Barista Express Espresso Machine, Black Truffle
The BES870BTR offers a similar core experience to the BES870XL but with a distinctive aesthetic and the same manual controls, making it suitable for users who want a classic, high-performing machine. Its built-in conical burr grinder, digital PID temperature control, and microfoam steam wand enable precise adjustments for tailored drinks. The high power consumption and limited water capacity are tradeoffs for its professional-grade features. It’s an appealing option for those who want a stylish, high-performance machine but are willing to manage its larger size and learning curve.
Pros:- Built-in conical burr grinder for fresh grounds
- Digital PID temperature control for precise extraction
- Microfoam steam wand for latte art
Cons:- High power consumption increases utility costs
- Limited water tank capacity for frequent use
Best for: Experienced home baristas who prioritize customization and visual appeal.
Not ideal for: Beginners or those with limited counter space, due to size and power needs.
- Capacity:1/2 lb bean hopper, 67 oz water tank
- Power:1600 Watts
- Included Accessories:Stainless steel portafilter, tamper, milk jug, cleaning tools
- Features:Built-in grinder, digital PID, microfoam wand
Our verdict“Perfect for enthusiasts who want a stylish, high-control espresso machine, accepting its size and power demands.”
How We Picked
The products in this roundup were selected based on a combination of performance, usability, build quality, and value for money. We prioritized models with consistent brewing results, intuitive controls, and durability, ensuring they suit a range of skill levels from beginners to enthusiasts. Additional factors included maintenance ease, feature set, and customer feedback. The ranking reflects a balance between price and features, highlighting the best options for different types of buyers and use cases. This approach ensures that each recommended machine offers a clear advantage over competitors within its category.Factors to Consider When Choosing Breville
Choosing the right Breville espresso machine involves understanding several key factors that impact your coffee experience. Beyond brand reputation, consider how features align with your skill level, space, and budget. A well-chosen machine can dramatically improve your daily coffee routine, but overspending on unnecessary features can lead to buyer’s remorse. It’s important to weigh the tradeoffs between automation, control, and price to find a model that truly fits your needs.Automation and User Interface
Breville offers machines ranging from fully manual to highly automated with touchscreens. If you prefer customizing every shot, a manual or semi-automatic model like the Barista Express provides control over grind size and extraction time. For convenience and consistency, models with touch interfaces, such as the Barista Touch, streamline the process with presets and guided workflows. Consider how much time you want to spend on preparation versus enjoying your coffee, and select accordingly.
Build Quality and Materials
Durability matters, especially if you plan to use your machine daily. Brushed stainless steel models tend to resist wear and look more polished over time. Cheaper plastic-bodied machines may save money upfront but can wear out faster or feel less premium. Think about where you’ll place your machine and how much longevity you need—investing in solid materials often pays off in the long run.
Size and Kitchen Fit
Espresso machines come in various sizes, from compact options like the Bambino to larger, feature-rich models. Measure your available counter space carefully, as larger machines can be cumbersome in small kitchens. Smaller models may lack certain features but can still deliver quality espresso, making them ideal for limited spaces or occasional use. Balance your space constraints with the features you want to avoid overcrowding your kitchen.
Features and Customization
Features such as steam wands, temperature control, and grind settings influence your ability to craft personalized drinks. High-end models often include PID temperature control for precise brewing, while others focus on ease of use with preset options. Identify which features truly enhance your coffee experience—extra bells and whistles can add cost without practical benefit if you prefer simplicity.
Price and Value
High price doesn’t always guarantee better quality; it often reflects advanced features or premium materials. Budget models like the Bambino are perfect for casual drinkers, but serious enthusiasts may find value in investing in models like the Barista Touch for better control and consistency. Consider your budget against your desired level of involvement and quality, and avoid overspending on features you may not use.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a more expensive Breville machine worth the investment?
Generally, higher-priced Breville machines include additional features, better build quality, and more precise controls, which can improve your espresso quality and ease of use. If you’re a passionate home barista or plan to use the machine daily, investing in a premium model like the Barista Touch makes sense. However, for casual use or beginners, a more affordable model can deliver excellent espresso without the extra cost, making it a more practical choice.
Do I need a machine with a built-in grinder?
Machines with integrated grinders, like the Barista Express series, offer convenience by combining grinding and brewing in one device. This setup simplifies the process and ensures freshness, especially if you prefer freshly ground beans. However, standalone grinders can offer more consistency and control at a lower overall cost, so consider whether you value simplicity or precision in your coffee routine. If space is limited, a machine with a built-in grinder may be the better option.
Can I make café-quality espresso at home with Breville?
Yes, many Breville models are designed to produce professional-quality espresso, especially those with features like precise temperature control, pressure profiling, and professional steam wands. Achieving café-quality drinks also depends on your technique and beans used. Investing in a higher-end model can help, but mastering the basics—like tamping, grind size, and milk frothing—is equally important for excellent results.
Are compact Breville machines suitable for serious espresso enthusiasts?
While compact models like the Bambino are excellent for small spaces and casual drinkers, they lack some of the advanced features found in larger, more expensive models. Serious enthusiasts who want more control over brewing variables and customization may find these smaller options limiting. However, for those starting out or with limited space, they provide a good balance of quality and convenience.
What maintenance does a Breville espresso machine require?
Regular cleaning is essential to keep your Breville machine performing at its best. This includes descaling, cleaning the portafilter and steam wand, and replacing water filters if applicable. Some models feature automatic cleaning cycles, which simplify maintenance. Proper upkeep extends the lifespan of your machine and ensures consistent results, so follow the manufacturer’s guidelines carefully and stay on top of routine cleaning.
Conclusion
For those seeking the best overall experience, the Breville BES880BSS Barista Touch offers a blend of automation, consistency, and user-friendly features that suit most home baristas. Budget-conscious buyers should consider the Breville Bambino, which provides dependable espresso without overwhelming complexity. Serious enthusiasts or those wanting maximum control might prefer the Breville BES870BSS Barista Express for its manual capabilities and built-in grinder. Beginners will find the Bambino Plus a straightforward introduction, while space-limited users should look to compact models like the Bambino. Each choice hinges on your priorities—balance features, budget, and skill level to find the perfect fit.
