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For anyone exploring coffee gear, Breville stands out as a leading brand known for quality, innovation, and durability. The best overall pick, the Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro, offers a great balance of performance and ease of use, making it ideal for serious home baristas. The Breville Bambino provides a more approachable entry point for beginners without sacrificing too much in quality. While these machines excel in brewing espresso, tradeoffs often involve price, complexity, and size. Continue reading for a detailed comparison of the top models and what makes each one unique.

10
compared
1
brands
Which Breville should you buy?
★ Top Pick
Breville BES870XL Barista Expr
Best Overall for Serious Home Baristas
Built-in grinder for fresh grounds
See on Amazon →
Beginners or busy households who want great espresso quickly with minimal manual intervention.
Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro
Intuitive LCD interface for easy operation
View on Amazon →
Budget-minded home baristas who want a full-featured machine but are okay with a shorter warranty and used look.
Breville Barista Express Espre
All-in-one with integrated grinder
View on Amazon →
Home users seeking consistent espresso with minimal skill, especially those who value assisted tamping for better results.
Breville BES876BSS Barista Exp
Automatic dosing and temperature control
View on Amazon →
Experienced home baristas who want full manual control and a stylish finish.
Breville BES870BTR Barista Exp
Built-in conical burr grinder for fresh grounds
View on Amazon →
Pros & cons at a glance
Breville BES870XL Barista Expr
✓ Built-in grinder for fresh grounds
✗ Manual operation can be challenging for beginners
Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro
✓ Intuitive LCD interface for easy operation
✗ Higher power consumption
Breville Barista Express Espre
✓ All-in-one with integrated grinder
✗ Remanufactured may have cosmetic imperfections
Breville BES876BSS Barista Exp
✓ Automatic dosing and temperature control
✗ Complex features may be too advanced for complete novices
Breville BES870BTR Barista Exp
✓ Built-in conical burr grinder for fresh grounds
✗ Setup can be complex for beginners
Breville BES880BSS Barista Tou
✓ User-friendly touch screen interface with customizable settings
✗ Requires regular cleaning and maintenance
Breville BES870BSXL Barista Ex
✓ Built-in grinder for fresh coffee grounds
✗ Relatively high power consumption
Breville BES881BSS Barista Tou
✓ Touchscreen with preset and customizable options
✗ May be complex for beginners to operate fully
Breville BES880BTR Barista Tou
✓ Touchscreen with customizable milk temperature and texture
✗ Relatively high power consumption
Breville Bambino Espresso Mach
✓ Easy for beginners to operate
✗ Limited advanced customization options

Complete the kit

Quick & Clean 2-Pack Descaler (8 Total Uses) - Made in th...
Quick & Clean 2-Pack Descaler (8 Total Uses) – Made in th…
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 Maker Cleaner and descaler Tablets – 24 Pack, Comp...
Coffee Maker Cleaner and descaler Tablets – 24 Pack, Comp…
Add to your setup →

Key Takeaways

  • The top-tier Breville models like the BES878BSS balance advanced features with user-friendly controls, appealing to serious espresso enthusiasts.
  • Entry-level options like the Bambino excel in simplicity and compactness but may lack some advanced customization features.
  • Build quality and material finish vary across models, with brushed stainless steel generally offering better durability and aesthetic appeal.
  • Prices range significantly, so understanding your brewing needs and budget is key to choosing the right machine.
  • Most models include integrated grinders or advanced milk frothing features, but these often come with increased complexity and cost.
2
Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro
Best for Tech-Savvy Beginners and Quick Results
1
Breville BES870XL Barista Expr
Best Overall for Serious Home Baristas
3
Breville Barista Express Espre
Best for Budget-Conscious Enthusiasts Who Don’t Mind a Used Look

Our Top Breville Picks

Breville BES870XL Barista Express Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless SteelBreville BES870XL Barista Express Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless SteelBest Overall for Serious Home BaristasIncluded: Razor Dose Trimming Tool, 54mm Stainless Steel Portafilter, 1 & 2 cup Filter Baskets, Coffee Scoop, Integrated Tamper, Stainless Steel Milk Jug, Cleaning Disc, Tablets, Brush Tool, Allen Key, Water Filter & HolderBean 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 Tech-Savvy Beginners and Quick ResultsBean Hopper Capacity: 1/2 lbWater Tank Capacity: 67 ozPower: 1680 WattsVIEW 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 Don’t Mind a Used LookCapacity: 1/2 lb Bean Hopper, 67 oz Water TankWater Tank Capacity: 67 ozHopper Capacity: 1/2 lbVIEW ON AMAZONSee Our Full Breakdown
Breville BES876BSS Barista Express Impress, Brushed Stainless SteelBreville BES876BSS Barista Express Impress, Brushed Stainless SteelBest for Consistent Results with Assisted TampingWeight: not specifiedCapacity: 250g bean hopper, 2L water tankGrind Settings: 25VIEW ON AMAZONSee Our Full Breakdown
Breville BES870BTR Barista Express Espresso Machine, Black TruffleBreville BES870BTR Barista Express Espresso Machine, Black TruffleBest for Traditional Manual Control and CustomizationCapacity: 1/2 lb bean hopper, 67 oz water tankPower: 1600 WattsIncluded Accessories: Stainless steel portafilter, coffee scoop, tamper, milk jug, cleaning toolsVIEW 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 BES870BSXL Barista Express Espresso Machine, Black SesameBreville BES870BSXL Barista Express Espresso Machine, Black SesameBest Value for All-in-One Espresso CraftingBean Hopper Capacity: 1/2 lbWater Tank Capacity: 67 ozPower: 1600 WattsVIEW ON AMAZONSee Our Full Breakdown
Breville BES881BSS Barista Touch Impress, Brushed Stainless SteelBreville BES881BSS Barista Touch Impress, Brushed Stainless SteelBest for Cold Brew and Custom Coffee OptionsMaterial: Brushed Stainless SteelType: Semi-automatic espresso machineFeatures: Built-in grinder, touchscreen, cold extractionVIEW ON AMAZONSee Our Full Breakdown
Breville BES880BTR Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Black TruffleBreville BES880BTR Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Black TruffleBest for Custom Milk and High-Quality Touchscreen ControlPortafilter: 54mm Full Stainless SteelWater Tank Capacity: 67 ozBean Hopper: 1/2 lbVIEW ON AMAZONSee Our Full Breakdown
Breville Bambino Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless SteelBreville Bambino Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless SteelBest for Beginners and Small SpacesModel: BES450BSSColor: Brushed Stainless SteelType: Espresso MachineVIEW ON AMAZONSee Our Full Breakdown
Specs at a glance
BrevilleWater Tank CapacityPowerIncluded AccessoriesVoltage
Breville BES870XL Barista Expr67 oz1600 Watts120 Volts
Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro67 oz1680 WattsSingle & Dual Wall Filter Baskets, Razor Precision Dose Trimming Tool, Milk Jug, Cleaning Kit, Water Filter120 Volts
Breville Barista Express Espre67 ozRazor Dose Trimming Tool, 54mm Stainless Steel Portafilter, Filter Baskets, Coffee Scoop, Tamper, Milk Jug, Cleaning Tools, Water Filter
Breville BES876BSS Barista Exp54mm stainless steel portafilter, 480ml milk jug, filter baskets, water filter holder, trimming tool, cleaning tablets
Breville BES870BTR Barista Exp1600 WattsStainless steel portafilter, coffee scoop, tamper, milk jug, cleaning tools
Breville BES880BSS Barista Tou67 oz1680 Watts54mm 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 Strip110 to 120V
Breville BES870BSXL Barista Ex67 oz1600 WattsRazor Dose Trimming Tool, 54mm Stainless Steel Portafilter, Single & Dual Wall Filter Baskets, Coffee Scoop, Integrated Tamper, Stainless Steel Milk Jug, Cleaning Disc, Tablets, Brush Tool, Allen Key, Water Filter & Filter Holder120 Volts
Breville BES881BSS Barista Tou
Breville BES880BTR Barista Tou67 oz1680 Watts110 to 120V
Breville Bambino Espresso Mach

More Details on Our Top Picks

  1. Breville BES870XL Barista Express Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel

    Breville BES870XL Barista Express Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel

    Best Overall for Serious Home Baristas

    View on Amazon

    This model stands out for delivering professional-quality espresso with its integrated grinder and extensive accessories, making it ideal for enthusiasts who want control over every step. Compared to the Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro, it offers more manual customization but lacks the LCD interface, which makes the Pro more intuitive for beginners. Its manual operation requires some skill, which might challenge casual users, and its larger footprint could be a problem in small kitchens. The built-in grinder and comprehensive toolkit mean you’re ready to brew right out of the box, yet the price and size are considerations for less committed users.

    Pros:
    • Built-in grinder for fresh grounds
    • Adjustable grind amount and manual override
    • Complete accessory package for maintenance and brewing
    Cons:
    • Manual operation can be challenging for beginners
    • Relatively large size limits placement options

    Best for: Home baristas who want a customizable, professional-level espresso experience and don’t mind a learning curve.

    Not ideal for: Casual drinkers or those with limited space who prefer a simpler, more compact machine.

    • Included:Razor Dose Trimming Tool, 54mm Stainless Steel Portafilter, 1 & 2 cup Filter Baskets, Coffee Scoop, Integrated Tamper, Stainless Steel Milk Jug, Cleaning Disc, Tablets, Brush Tool, Allen Key, Water Filter & Holder
    • Bean Hopper Capacity:1/2 lb
    • Water Tank Capacity:67 oz
    • Power:1600 Watts
    • Voltage:120 Volts
    • Warranty:1 Year Limited
    Our verdict
    “This is the best choice for dedicated home baristas willing to invest time and space for full control over their coffee.”
  2. Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel

    Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel

    Best for Tech-Savvy Beginners and Quick Results

    View on Amazon

    This pick makes the most sense for users seeking cafe-quality espresso with minimal fuss, thanks to its intuitive LCD interface and fast heat-up time. Unlike the Breville BES870XL, it offers a more streamlined, user-friendly experience with fewer manual controls, which is ideal for newcomers but may limit customization for purists. The built-in grinder with adjustable control ensures fresh grounds, but the higher power consumption and premium price could be drawbacks for budget-conscious buyers. Its large water tank supports multiple drinks without constant refilling, making it suited for frequent home use.

    Pros:
    • Intuitive LCD interface for easy operation
    • Built-in grinder with adjustable control
    • Large water tank supports multiple drinks
    • Includes cleaning kit and accessories
    Cons:
    • Higher power consumption
    • May be complex for complete beginners to master fully

    Best for: Beginners or busy households who want great espresso quickly with minimal manual intervention.

    Not ideal for: Experienced enthusiasts seeking detailed control or extensive customization options.

    • Bean Hopper Capacity:1/2 lb
    • Water Tank Capacity:67 oz
    • Power:1680 Watts
    • Voltage:120 Volts
    • Included Accessories:Single & Dual Wall Filter Baskets, Razor Precision Dose Trimming Tool, Milk Jug, Cleaning Kit, Water Filter
    • Warranty:2 Year Limited
    Our verdict
    “Ideal for users who prioritize convenience and speed without sacrificing quality, especially beginners.”
  3. Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine, Stainless Steel (Certified Remanufactured)

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

    Best for Budget-Conscious Enthusiasts Who Don’t Mind a Used Look

    View on Amazon

    This certified remanufactured version offers the same core features as the new model, such as an integrated grinder and precise temperature control, but at a lower price point. It’s a strong choice for those who want professional results without paying full retail, although the shorter six-month warranty introduces some risk. Compared to a brand-new unit like the Breville BES870XL, it may show minor signs of prior use, and its learning curve remains intact due to manual controls and microfoam techniques. It’s best for those comfortable with some trial and error to perfect their espresso skills.

    Pros:
    • All-in-one with integrated grinder
    • Precise PID temperature control
    • Manual microfoam wand for latte art
    • Includes comprehensive accessories
    Cons:
    • Remanufactured may have cosmetic imperfections
    • Six-month warranty is shorter than new models

    Best for: Budget-minded home baristas who want a full-featured machine but are okay with a shorter warranty and used look.

    Not ideal for: Users seeking a brand-new, full warranty experience or those sensitive to the appearance of remanufactured units.

    • Capacity:1/2 lb Bean Hopper, 67 oz Water Tank
    • Water Tank Capacity:67 oz
    • Hopper Capacity:1/2 lb
    • Included Accessories:Razor Dose Trimming Tool, 54mm Stainless Steel Portafilter, Filter Baskets, Coffee Scoop, Tamper, Milk Jug, Cleaning Tools, Water Filter
    • Features:Conical burr grinder, digital PID temperature control, manual microfoam wand, grind size dial, adjustable grind amount
    • Warranty:Six months Breville Limited
    Our verdict
    “This option suits budget-conscious users who want to learn and experiment without paying full retail price.”
  4. Breville BES876BSS Barista Express Impress, Brushed Stainless Steel

    Breville BES876BSS Barista Express Impress, Brushed Stainless Steel

    Best for Consistent Results with Assisted Tamping

    View on Amazon

    This model emphasizes consistency through automatic dosing, assisted tamping, and temperature control, making it suitable for those who want café-quality drinks with less manual effort. Compared to the Breville BES870XL or Barista Express, it simplifies the process with features like assisted tamping, but its price might be a barrier and specific dimensions are not listed, which could be limiting in smaller kitchens. Its powerful steam wand allows for microfoam creation, but the machine’s complexity may overwhelm absolute beginners. It’s a strong pick for users who want convenience without sacrificing espresso quality.

    Pros:
    • Automatic dosing and temperature control
    • Built-in conical burr grinder with 25 settings
    • Powerful steam wand for microfoam
    • Includes accessories like milk jug and cleaning tablets
    Cons:
    • Price is higher, potentially limiting for casual buyers
    • Complex features may be too advanced for complete novices

    Best for: Home users seeking consistent espresso with minimal skill, especially those who value assisted tamping for better results.

    Not ideal for: Beginners who want a straightforward, manual learning experience or those with limited space due to unspecified dimensions.

    • Weight:not specified
    • Capacity:250g bean hopper, 2L water tank
    • Grind Settings:25
    • Included Accessories:54mm stainless steel portafilter, 480ml milk jug, filter baskets, water filter holder, trimming tool, cleaning tablets
    • Heating System:ThermoCoil with PID control
    Our verdict
    “Perfect for users who prioritize consistency and ease of use with professional results at home.”
  5. Breville BES870BTR Barista Express Espresso Machine, Black Truffle

    Breville BES870BTR Barista Express Espresso Machine, Black Truffle

    Best for Traditional Manual Control and Customization

    View on Amazon

    This model offers the classic manual espresso experience with a built-in conical burr grinder, allowing fine-tuning of grind size and dose for personalized coffee crafting. It’s comparable to the original Barista Express but in a distinctive Black Truffle finish, appealing to those who value aesthetics as well as control. The machine’s setup can be complex for beginners, especially with manual microfoam techniques, and its capacity is limited for high-volume use. It’s best suited for enthusiasts who enjoy the process of dialing in their espresso but may not be ideal for those seeking quick, effortless drinks.

    Pros:
    • Built-in conical burr grinder for fresh grounds
    • Precise temperature control for quality extraction
    • Steam wand for microfoam
    • Customizable grind size and dose
    Cons:
    • Setup can be complex for beginners
    • Limited capacity for frequent large-volume use

    Best for: Experienced home baristas who want full manual control and a stylish finish.

    Not ideal for: Casual users or those new to espresso who prefer automatic or semi-automatic options for simplicity.

    • Capacity:1/2 lb bean hopper, 67 oz water tank
    • Power:1600 Watts
    • Included Accessories:Stainless steel portafilter, coffee scoop, tamper, milk jug, cleaning tools
    • Features:Built-in grinder, digital temperature control, microfoam steam wand, grind size dial
    Our verdict
    “Designed for dedicated enthusiasts who enjoy fine-tuning their espresso setup and value a stylish look.”
  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 BES880BSS Barista Touch stands out for its intuitive touch screen interface and extensive customization options, making it a top choice for serious home baristas. Compared with the Bambino, which is more beginner-friendly but lacks digital controls, this model offers a more precise and versatile experience. Its built-in grinder with adjustable control ensures fresh grounds for every shot, but the high price and limited water capacity mean it’s better suited for users who regularly brew multiple drinks and value advanced features. Regular cleaning and maintenance are necessary to keep the touchscreen and grinder performing well. This machine makes the most sense for those who want a semi-automatic with cafe-like control and don’t mind investing time and money into their setup.
    Pros:
    • User-friendly touch screen interface with customizable settings
    • Built-in grinder with adjustable control for fresh coffee
    • Includes comprehensive accessories for brewing versatility
    Cons:
    • High price point for home espresso machines
    • Requires regular cleaning and maintenance
    • Limited water tank capacity for frequent use

    Best for: Experienced coffee enthusiasts seeking a highly customizable, semi-automatic machine with a touchscreen.

    Not ideal for: Casual users or small households who prefer simplicity and a lower price point, as the complexity and cost may be overwhelming.

    • 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
    • Custom Settings:8
    • Adjustable Grind Control:Yes
    • Power:1680 Watts
    • Voltage:110 to 120V
    Our verdict
    “This model suits dedicated home baristas who prioritize customization and ease of operation over initial cost.”
  7. Breville BES870BSXL Barista Express Espresso Machine, Black Sesame

    Breville BES870BSXL Barista Express Espresso Machine, Black Sesame

    Best Value for All-in-One Espresso Crafting

    View on Amazon
    The Breville BES870BSXL Barista Express offers a compelling balance of features and affordability, making it ideal for home users who want quality without a hefty price tag. Its built-in grinder, with manual override and adjustable grind amount, delivers fresh grounds that significantly improve shot quality compared to machines without a grinder, like the Bambino. While it’s slightly less advanced than the Barista Touch, it still includes a broad set of accessories for brewing and maintenance. The main tradeoff is its higher power consumption and limited water capacity, which can be inconvenient for frequent users. Overall, this machine is perfect for those willing to learn manual operation but who need a reliable, all-in-one espresso setup.
    Pros:
    • Built-in grinder for fresh coffee grounds
    • Adjustable grind amount with manual override
    • Includes extensive accessories for brewing and cleaning
    Cons:
    • Relatively high power consumption
    • Limited water tank capacity for frequent brewing
    • Manual operation may require some skill

    Best for: Home baristas seeking a budget-friendly, feature-rich machine with manual control and a built-in grinder.

    Not ideal for: Casual drinkers or those with small kitchens who want a very compact machine, as the size and manual operation require some learning curve.

    • 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, Single & Dual Wall Filter Baskets, Coffee Scoop, Integrated Tamper, Stainless Steel Milk Jug, Cleaning Disc, Tablets, Brush Tool, Allen Key, Water Filter & Filter Holder
    Our verdict
    “This model is best suited for motivated beginners or hobbyists eager to explore manual espresso making without overspending.”
  8. Breville BES881BSS Barista Touch Impress, Brushed Stainless Steel

    Breville BES881BSS Barista Touch Impress, Brushed Stainless Steel

    Best for Cold Brew and Custom Coffee Options

    View on Amazon
    The Breville BES881BSS Barista Touch Impress expands on the original with a dedicated focus on versatility, including cold extraction for cold brew drinks. Its touchscreen interface ensures ease of use, with preset and customizable options that appeal to those who want a broad range of coffee styles, including cold beverages. Compared to the Bambino, which is simpler and more compact, this machine offers a richer feature set but at a higher price. Its complexity might be overwhelming for absolute beginners, but for users who enjoy experimenting with cold and hot drinks, it provides an all-in-one solution. The tradeoff is the higher cost and potential learning curve associated with its advanced features.
    Pros:
    • Touchscreen with preset and customizable options
    • Supports cold extraction for cold brew beverages
    • Built-in grinder for fresh grounds
    Cons:
    • May be complex for beginners to operate fully
    • Higher price point due to advanced features

    Best for: Coffee lovers interested in both hot espresso drinks and cold brew, looking for a machine with advanced customization.

    Not ideal for: Beginners or those with limited space who prefer straightforward, manual espresso machines, as the advanced features add complexity.

    • Material:Brushed Stainless Steel
    • Type:Semi-automatic espresso machine
    • Features:Built-in grinder, touchscreen, cold extraction
    Our verdict
    “This machine makes the most sense for experienced users wanting a versatile, feature-rich machine that handles hot and cold drinks with ease.”
  9. Breville BES880BTR Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Black Truffle

    Breville BES880BTR Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Black Truffle

    Best for Custom Milk and High-Quality Touchscreen Control

    View on Amazon
    The Breville BES880BTR Barista Touch offers a refined experience with its sleek Black Truffle finish, combining a high-quality touchscreen for easy operation and programmable milk temperature and texture. Like the BES880BSS, it features a built-in grinder and customizable settings, but its focus on milk control makes it ideal for latte art and personalized milk drinks. Compared to the Bambino, which is more basic, this machine emphasizes milk texture control, but at a higher price. Its power consumption and price might deter casual users, but for serious milk-based drink fans, it delivers precise control and convenience. The included accessories and water filter add value for dedicated home baristas.
    Pros:
    • Touchscreen with customizable milk temperature and texture
    • Built-in grinder for fresh coffee grounds
    • Elegant aesthetic with high-quality build
    Cons:
    • Relatively high power consumption
    • Higher price point may be prohibitive for casual users

    Best for: Those who prioritize milk texture customization and want a stylish, premium espresso machine for daily use.

    Not ideal for: Casual users or those seeking a more compact or budget-friendly option, as the advanced features and cost may be unnecessary.

    • Portafilter:54mm Full Stainless Steel
    • Water Tank Capacity:67 oz
    • Bean Hopper:1/2 lb
    • Water Filter:ClaroSwiss
    • Display:Touch Screen
    • Pre-Programmed Favorites:5
    • Custom Settings:8
    • Power:1680 Watts
    • Voltage:110 to 120V
    • Warranty:2 Years
    Our verdict
    “This model is best for dedicated milk-based coffee lovers who want precise control and a premium look in their home setup.”
  10. Breville Bambino Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel

    Breville Bambino Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel

    Best for Beginners and Small Spaces

    View on Amazon
    The Breville Bambino offers a straightforward, compact espresso experience tailored for newcomers. Its automatic steam wand simplifies milk frothing, making it accessible for users who are just learning, unlike more complex machines like the Barista Touch. While it produces high-quality espresso and microfoam, its limited customization options and manual learning curve mean it’s best for those willing to spend time mastering its operation. Its small footprint makes it ideal for tight kitchens, but it sacrifices some advanced features found in larger, more sophisticated machines. Overall, this pick makes the most sense for beginners who want quality without overwhelming complexity or size.
    Pros:
    • Easy for beginners to operate
    • Produces high-quality espresso and microfoam
    • Compact size fits small kitchens
    Cons:
    • Limited advanced customization options
    • Requires some learning for optimal use

    Best for: Newcomers and small kitchen owners seeking an easy-to-use, compact espresso machine.

    Not ideal for: Experienced baristas or those wanting extensive control over brewing parameters, as the Bambino offers limited customization.

    • Model:BES450BSS
    • Color:Brushed Stainless Steel
    • Type:Espresso Machine
    • Features:Automatic Microfoam Milk Texturing, Compact Design, Manual Operation
    Our verdict
    “This machine is ideal for entry-level users who want a simple, space-saving way to make espresso at home.”
Breville
What makes a great Breville
1
Performance and Brew Quality
High-quality espresso starts with stable temperature and pressure.
2
Ease of Use and Learning Curve
Some Breville models, like the Bambino, are designed for beginners, with simple controls and minimal setup.
3
Size and Kitchen Compatibility
Many Breville machines are compact, but some, especially those with integrated grinders or larger boilers, can take up significant
4
Maintenance and Durability
Durability depends heavily on build materials—stainless steel models tend to last longer and resist wear better.
How to choose your Breville
1
How we picked
To determine the best Breville machines, I focused on several criteria that matter most to buyers: brewing performance,
2
Performance and Brew Quality
High-quality espresso starts with stable temperature and pressure.
3
Ease of Use and Learning Curve
Some Breville models, like the Bambino, are designed for beginners, with simple controls and minimal setup.
4
Size and Kitchen Compatibility
Many Breville machines are compact, but some, especially those with integrated grinders or larger boilers, can take up s
5
Maintenance and Durability
Durability depends heavily on build materials—stainless steel models tend to last longer and resist wear better.
Vetted Breville ·
The best Breville, compared
★ Winner Breville BES870XL Barista Expr
Best Overall for Serious Home Baristas
10compared

How We Picked

To determine the best Breville machines, I focused on several criteria that matter most to buyers: brewing performance, ease of use, build quality, maintenance, and value for money. I examined how each model balances these factors, considering features like espresso extraction quality, temperature stability, and user interface. The ranking also accounts for versatility—such as built-in grinders or milk frothing options—and how intuitive the machines are for everyday use. Price-to-performance ratios played a key role, ensuring selections represent good value for different budgets and skill levels.
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 important factors. Beyond basic features, understanding your brewing style, space constraints, and budget can help narrow down options. Knowing what tradeoffs are acceptable—such as ease of use versus advanced customization—can prevent buyer’s remorse and ensure satisfaction with your investment.

Performance and Brew Quality

High-quality espresso starts with stable temperature and pressure. Look for machines with PID temperature control and consistent extraction capabilities. Cheaper models might produce good shots initially but struggle with temperature fluctuations over time, affecting flavor. For serious espresso lovers, investing in a machine with precise controls and robust brewing features makes a noticeable difference in flavor and shot consistency.

Ease of Use and Learning Curve

Some Breville models, like the Bambino, are designed for beginners, with simple controls and minimal setup. Others, such as the Barista Pro, include advanced features like touchscreen displays and adjustable settings that require more learning but offer greater control. Consider how much time you’re willing to spend learning the machine—simpler setups are better for casual users, while enthusiasts may prefer machines with more customization options.

Size and Kitchen Compatibility

Many Breville machines are compact, but some, especially those with integrated grinders or larger boilers, can take up significant counter space. Measure your available kitchen area carefully and consider whether you prefer a sleek, space-saving model or a larger machine with more features. Also, check if your kitchen outlets match the machine’s power requirements to avoid compatibility issues.

Maintenance and Durability

Durability depends heavily on build materials—stainless steel models tend to last longer and resist wear better. Regular cleaning, descaling, and maintenance are crucial for optimal performance. Some models include automatic cleaning cycles, which simplify upkeep but might add to initial cost. A machine that’s easier to maintain helps preserve brew quality over time and reduces the total cost of ownership.

Price and Value

Budget constraints influence your choice significantly. Entry-level Breville machines like the Bambino offer good value for casual users but lack some advanced features of higher-end models. More expensive options provide better control, durability, and features but may be overkill if you only brew occasionally. Consider whether the added features justify the price difference based on your coffee habits and skill level.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a built-in grinder necessary in a Breville espresso machine?

A built-in grinder offers convenience by streamlining your setup process, especially for daily use. However, it may limit grind customization compared to standalone grinders. If you value precise control over grind size and are willing to spend time dialing in your espresso, opting for a machine without a grinder or one that pairs well with an external grinder might be better. For beginners or those who prioritize simplicity, built-in grinders are a practical choice, despite slightly higher costs.

How important is a PID temperature control in a Breville machine?

A PID controller maintains a stable brewing temperature, which is essential for consistent extraction and flavor. Machines equipped with PID tend to produce better-tasting espresso with less variability over multiple shots. Cheaper models might lack this feature, leading to fluctuations that affect shot quality. For serious coffee enthusiasts, choosing a machine with PID control can make a noticeable difference in the final brew.

Should I prioritize a machine with a steam wand or an automatic milk frother?

If you enjoy customizing your milk textures or learning latte art, a manual steam wand provides greater control. Automatic frothers are more convenient and faster, ideal for quick mornings or when you prefer simplicity. Keep in mind that manual wands require practice but allow for more precise microfoam. Your choice depends on how much you value control versus ease of use.

Are more expensive Breville models worth the extra cost?

Higher-priced models often include advanced features like touchscreen controls, faster heat-up times, and better build quality. If you brew frequently or want more customization, these features can enhance your experience and produce superior espresso. However, if you’re a casual drinker, a mid-range or entry-level machine may offer the best balance of performance and affordability. Consider your brewing frequency and skill level before investing in premium options.

How long do Breville espresso machines typically last?

With proper care and regular maintenance, most Breville machines can last around 5 to 10 years. Stainless steel models tend to be more durable, and machines with fewer electronic components may require less repair over time. Investing in a machine with quality parts and features like automatic cleaning can extend its lifespan and keep performance consistent. Reading reviews about long-term durability can also guide your choice.

Conclusion

For casual coffee drinkers or those new to espresso, the Breville Bambino offers simplicity and value without sacrificing essential quality. Serious enthusiasts aiming for professional-level brewing should consider the Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro for its balance of advanced features and usability. Budget-conscious buyers will find great value in mid-range models, while premium options like the BES880BSS provide top-tier control and durability. Ultimately, your choice should align with your skill level, space, and how much you’re willing to invest in your daily coffee ritual.

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