Breville is renowned for its high-quality espresso machines that blend performance and style. The best overall pick, the Breville BES880BSS Barista Touch, offers advanced features for serious coffee lovers. For those seeking a more affordable yet reliable option, the Bambino series provides excellent value without sacrificing essential performance. The key tradeoffs in this category often involve balancing price, feature set, and ease of use. Continue reading for a detailed comparison to help you find the perfect Breville for your needs.
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Key Takeaways
- The top-tier models like the BES880BSS offer advanced customization but come with a higher price tag, making them suitable for enthusiasts.
- The Bambino series strikes a balance between affordability and decent performance, ideal for beginners or casual users.
- Build quality and material choices, such as stainless steel finishes, influence both durability and aesthetics.
- Features like automatic milk frothing and touchscreen controls are common in premium models, but they add complexity and cost.
- The differences in boiler design and pressure systems significantly affect the espresso quality and consistency across models.
| Breville BES880BSS Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best Overall | Power: 1680 Watts | Voltage: 110 to 120V | Water Tank Capacity: 67 oz | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for Advanced Users | Capacity: 1/2 lb Bean Hopper | Water Tank: 67 oz | Power: 1680 Watts | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville Bambino Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best Compact | Power: 1560 Watts | Voltage: 110-120V | Brew Capacity: 1 or 2 Cups | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES870BTR Barista Express Espresso Machine, Black Truffle |  | Best for Hands-On Control | Capacity: 1/2 lb Bean Hopper, 67 oz Water Tank | Power: 1600 Watts | Voltage: 120 Volts | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for Ease and Speed | Water Pressure: Pre-infusion with low pressure, then high pressure | Dosing: 54mm porta-filter with 19 grams | Heat Up Time: 3 seconds with ThermoJet | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES876BST Barista Express Impress, Black Stainless Steel |  | Best for Professional-Quality Results at Home | 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 | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES870XL Barista Express Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for Beginners Who Want Customization | Capacity: 1/2 lb Bean Hopper, 67 oz Water Tank | Power: 1600 Watts | Included Accessories: Stainless Steel Portafilter, Filter Baskets, Tamper, Milk Jug, Cleaning Tools | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES876BSS Barista Express Impress, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for Professional-Quality Espresso with Ease | Capacity: 250g bean hopper, 2L water tank | Grind Settings: 25 | Portafilter Size: 54mm | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES876DBL Barista Express Impress, Damson Blue |  | Best for Stylish, High-Performance Espresso | Grind Settings: 25 | Bean Hopper Capacity: 250g | Water Tank Capacity: 2L | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES881BSS Barista Touch Impress, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for Tech-Savvy Users Seeking Convenience | Material: Brushed Stainless Steel | Heating System: ThermoJet | Grinder: Baratza European Precision Burrs, 30 settings | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville | Included Accessories | Power | Warranty | Voltage |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Breville BES880BSS Barista Tou | 54mm stainless steel portafilter, filters, milk jug, water filter, trimming tool, cleaning kit, test strip | 1680 Watts | 2 Years | 110 to 120V |
| Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro | Single & Dual Wall Filter Baskets, Razor Dose Trimming Tool, Milk Jug, Cleaning Kit, Water Filter | 1680 Watts | 2 Years | 120 Volts |
| Breville Bambino Espresso Mach | Milk Jug, Portafilter, Tamper, Cleaning Tool, Descaling Powder | 1560 Watts | 1 Year Limited | 110-120V |
| Breville BES870BTR Barista Exp | Stainless Steel Portafilter, Coffee Scoop, Tamper, Milk Jug, Cleaning Tools | 1600 Watts | 1 Year Limited | 120 Volts |
| Breville Bambino Plus Espresso | — | 1560 Watts | 2 Year Limited | 110-120V |
| Breville BES876BST Barista Exp | 54mm stainless steel portafilter, 480ml milk jug, filter baskets, water filter holder, trimming tool, cleaning tablets | — | — | — |
| Breville BES870XL Barista Expr | Stainless Steel Portafilter, Filter Baskets, Tamper, Milk Jug, Cleaning Tools | 1600 Watts | 1 Year Limited | — |
| Breville BES876BSS Barista Exp | stainless steel milk jug, filter baskets, water filter holder, trimming tool, cleaning tablets | — | — | — |
| Breville BES876DBL Barista Exp | stainless steel milk jug, filter baskets, water filter holder, trimming tool, cleaning tablets | — | — | — |
| Breville BES881BSS Barista Tou | 2 free bags of specialty coffee | — | — | — |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Breville BES880BSS Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Breville Barista Touch stands out for its combination of automation and customization, making it ideal for serious espresso enthusiasts who want café-quality drinks at home. Its touchscreen interface simplifies operation, while the automatic microfoam wand ensures consistent milk texturing. Compared with the Bambino models, it offers more advanced features but at a higher price and larger footprint, which might not suit small kitchens. The fast heat-up and precise temperature control make it a favorite for those seeking professional results without manual fuss. However, its complexity can be a barrier for beginners, and for casual users, the cost may be hard to justify.
Pros:- Automatic microfoam milk texturing for consistent, café-quality drinks
- Touchscreen interface for intuitive operation and customization
- Fast heat-up time with ThermoJet system
Cons:- High price point may deter casual users
- Large footprint might not fit smaller kitchens
- Learning curve for mastering advanced features
Best for: Home baristas ready to invest in a semi-automatic machine with automation and customization features.
Not ideal for: Casual users or those with limited kitchen space who prefer simpler, more affordable options.
- Power:1680 Watts
- Voltage:110 to 120V
- Water Tank Capacity:67 oz
- Bean Hopper Capacity:0.5 lb
- Included Accessories:54mm stainless steel portafilter, filters, milk jug, water filter, trimming tool, cleaning kit, test strip
- Warranty:2 Years
Our verdict“This machine is perfect for dedicated home baristas seeking professional-level espresso with ease of use, despite its higher cost and size.”
Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Breville Barista Pro offers a more intuitive experience with a built-in grinder and digital controls, making it well-suited for users who want café-quality espresso with less manual effort than the Express or Bambino. Its rapid ThermoJet heating system allows for near-instant heat-up, and the precise digital temperature control ensures optimal extraction. Unlike the Bambino, it includes a conical burr grinder with dose control, making it ideal for those who prefer freshly ground beans. However, its larger size and complex interface could challenge beginners, and the premium price reflects its advanced features. Compared to the Bambino, it provides more control but requires a steeper learning curve.
Pros:- Built-in conical burr grinder with dose control for ultimate freshness
- Fast heat-up with ThermoJet system for quick brewing
- Digital controls for precise temperature and shot timing
- Manual steam wand for latte art
Cons:- Steeper learning curve due to digital interface
- Relatively large footprint requiring ample counter space
- Higher price point for advanced features
Best for: Experienced home baristas who want an integrated grinder and digital precision for quick, high-quality espresso.
Not ideal for: Beginners or those with limited kitchen space who prefer straightforward, manual machines.
- Capacity:1/2 lb Bean Hopper
- Water Tank:67 oz
- Power:1680 Watts
- Voltage:120 Volts
- Included Accessories:Single & Dual Wall Filter Baskets, Razor Dose Trimming Tool, Milk Jug, Cleaning Kit, Water Filter
- Warranty:2 Years
Our verdict“This pick makes the most sense for experienced enthusiasts seeking convenience, control, and quick results, despite its complexity and size.”
Breville Bambino Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Breville Bambino shines for its compact size and fast heat-up, making it ideal for small kitchens or spaces where countertop real estate is limited. Its ThermoJet system reaches brewing temperature in about 3 seconds, and the automatic steam wand simplifies milk texturing for cappuccinos and lattes. While it offers good control over temperature, it is limited to 1 or 2 cup sizes, which might frustrate those wanting more variety. Compared to larger models like the Barista Pro, it sacrifices some features for portability and ease of use. Its manual operation may require some practice for best results, but overall, it offers excellent value for small-space dwellers who want quality espresso without the bulk.
Pros:- Compact size fits easily on small countertops
- Fast heat-up with ThermoJet system
- Automatic steam wand for microfoam
- Good temperature stability for consistent shots
Cons:- Limited to 1 or 2 cup brewing options
- Requires manual operation for optimal results
- Higher price might seem steep for basic features
Best for: Apartment dwellers or anyone with limited kitchen space seeking a straightforward, space-saving espresso machine.
Not ideal for: Users who frequently make large quantities or seek advanced control and customization.
- Power:1560 Watts
- Voltage:110-120V
- Brew Capacity:1 or 2 Cups
- Included Accessories:Milk Jug, Portafilter, Tamper, Cleaning Tool, Descaling Powder
- Warranty:1 Year Limited
Our verdict“Ideal for small-space users who want quick, quality espresso with minimal fuss, even if it means sacrificing some versatility.”
Breville BES870BTR Barista Express Espresso Machine, Black Truffle
The Breville BES870BTR combines an integrated grinder with a manual microfoam wand, making it a favorite for those who prefer customizing every step of their espresso. Its built-in conical burr grinder allows for fresh grounds and precise dose control, giving users flexibility that the Bambino lacks. The manual microfoam wand enables latte art, appealing to enthusiasts aiming for barista-level drinks. Compared to the Bambino, it offers more control and customization but at the expense of a larger size and higher power consumption. Its price might be high for casual users who prefer automatic options, but it’s a solid choice for those who enjoy experimenting with their brew process.
Pros:- Built-in conical burr grinder with adjustable grind size
- Precise temperature control for optimal extraction
- Manual microfoam wand for latte art
- Includes accessories and cleaning tools
Cons:- Relatively high power consumption
- Limited water capacity for frequent use
- Higher price point for casual users
Best for: Home baristas who want to fine-tune every aspect of their espresso and milk texturing for professional results.
Not ideal for: Casual drinkers or those with limited space seeking a simple, plug-and-play machine.
- 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
- Warranty:1 Year Limited
Our verdict“This machine appeals to serious hobbyists who want complete control over their espresso and milk texture, despite its larger size and higher cost.”
Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Breville Bambino Plus offers a compelling balance of speed, size, and automation, making it ideal for those who want cafe-quality espresso with minimal effort. Its ThermoJet system heats up in about 3 seconds, and the automatic milk texturing wand produces microfoam suitable for lattes and cappuccinos. While it’s compact and easy to use, it limits users to 1 or 2 cup sizes and requires some practice to master the automatic features fully. Compared with the Barista Touch, it lacks a touchscreen but compensates with simpler operation and a smaller footprint. It’s a good choice for beginners or those who prioritize quick setup and consistent results over extensive customization.
Pros:- Compact size fits small kitchens
- Fast heat-up with ThermoJet system
- Automatic steam wand for microfoam
- Pre-infusion for balanced extraction
Cons:- Limited to 1 or 2 cups at a time
- Requires some learning for optimal use
- Higher price point for a compact machine
Best for: Home users seeking a compact, fast, and easy-to-use espresso machine for daily coffee routine.
Not ideal for: Advanced users wanting detailed control or larger volume brewing for entertaining guests.
- Water Pressure:Pre-infusion with low pressure, then high pressure
- Dosing:54mm porta-filter with 19 grams
- Heat Up Time:3 seconds with ThermoJet
- Power:1560 Watts
- Voltage:110-120V
- Warranty:2 Year Limited
- Dimensions:7.7 inches wide
Our verdict“This machine is perfect for busy mornings or small kitchens where speed and simplicity matter most, despite some limitations in capacity and control.”
Breville BES876BST Barista Express Impress, Black Stainless Steel
The Breville BES876BST Barista Express Impress stands out for its combination of advanced features and user-friendly automation, making it ideal for serious home baristas. Its manual microfoam wand and intelligent dosing system help produce café-quality milk and espresso with consistent results, surpassing the more basic Bambino models. However, its complex setup and large footprint can be challenging for newcomers or those with limited space. Compared to the Breville BES870XL, this model offers more integrated automation but at a higher price and with a steeper learning curve. It’s best suited for dedicated coffee enthusiasts willing to invest time and space for professional-level brewing.
Pros:- Professional-level espresso and milk frothing capabilities
- Intelligent dosing and assisted tamping for consistent results
- Built-in conical burr grinder with 25 settings
Cons:- Complex setup may be challenging for beginners
- Relatively high price point
- Large size may require significant counter space
Best for: Experienced home baristas seeking professional features and high customization.
Not ideal for: Casual users or small kitchens where space and simplicity are priorities.
- 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
- Features:Manual microfoam, intelligent dosing, auto-correct dosing, assisted tamping, PID temperature control, hot water function
Our verdict“This machine is perfect for coffee lovers who prioritize professional results and are ready for a more involved brewing process.”
Breville BES870XL Barista Express Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
Compared with the Impress models, the Breville BES870XL offers a more straightforward setup and a slightly more accessible price point. Its built-in conical burr grinder and PID temperature control support precise espresso and milk drinks, but it requires users to manually manage grind size, dose, and tamping, which can be daunting for newcomers. While it lacks the assisted tamping of the Impress series, the more familiar semi-automatic operation appeals to those learning the craft. Its bulkier size demands ample counter space, but its versatility makes it a favored entry point for enthusiasts willing to learn manual controls. This pick makes the most sense for someone seeking control and quality without the highest complexity or price.
Pros:- Built-in conical burr grinder for fresh grounds
- Precise temperature control with PID
- Manual microfoam steam wand for latte art
Cons:- Relatively high price point
- Learning curve for mastering manual controls
- Bulkier size may be a space concern
Best for: Home coffee enthusiasts eager to learn espresso-making with some automation.
Not ideal for: Absolute beginners who prefer fully automated machines or tight spaces.
- Capacity:1/2 lb Bean Hopper, 67 oz Water Tank
- Power:1600 Watts
- Included Accessories:Stainless Steel Portafilter, Filter Baskets, Tamper, Milk Jug, Cleaning Tools
- Grind Size Dial:Yes
- Warranty:1 Year Limited
Our verdict“This machine suits users who want a balance of control, quality, and learning opportunity in home espresso crafting.”
Breville BES876BSS Barista Express Impress, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Breville BES876BSS offers a similar feature set to the black stainless version but with a sleek aesthetic. Its built-in grinder with 25 settings and assisted tamping simplify the process of achieving consistent espresso, making it a strong contender for those who want professional results without the need for extensive barista skills. Its powerful steam wand supports microfoam creation, and the included accessories add convenience. Still, its complex setup and size may deter casual users or those with limited space. Compared with the Blue Damson model, this version’s stainless steel finish offers a more durable, stylish look, but both share similar tradeoffs regarding size and learning curve.
Pros:- Professional-quality espresso with customizable settings
- Built-in grinder with 25 grind settings
- Assisted tamping for consistent puck preparation
Cons:- Complex setup may be challenging for new users
- Relatively large footprint
- Price may be high for casual coffee drinkers
Best for: Home baristas who want professional-grade espresso with guided features.
Not ideal for: Beginners seeking a simple, plug-and-play machine or small kitchens.
- Capacity:250g bean hopper, 2L water tank
- Grind Settings:25
- Portafilter Size:54mm
- Included Accessories:stainless steel milk jug, filter baskets, water filter holder, trimming tool, cleaning tablets
Our verdict“Ideal for passionate coffee lovers who desire a semi-automatic machine with professional features and guided operation.”
Breville BES876DBL Barista Express Impress, Damson Blue
The Damson Blue version of the Impress series adds a vibrant aesthetic to the same core features, making it perfect for those wanting a statement piece. Its built-in grinder with 25 settings and assisted tamping enable consistent espresso shots, with the powerful steam wand supporting microfoam creation. While its size and setup complexity mirror the stainless steel models, the striking color makes it appealing for modern kitchens. Compared with the standard models, the blue finish adds personality but does not change the core functionality or tradeoffs. It’s best suited for users who want a visually distinctive machine that still offers professional-level features.
Pros:- Vibrant, stylish appearance with durable finish
- Integrated grinder with 25 adjustable settings
- Assisted tamping and microfoam steam wand
Cons:- Complex setup similar to other Impress models
- Large footprint for small spaces
- Higher price point for a specialty finish
Best for: Design-conscious home baristas who want a colorful, high-performance espresso machine.
Not ideal for: Small kitchens or casual users who prefer minimalistic or budget options.
- Grind Settings:25
- Bean Hopper Capacity:250g
- Water Tank Capacity:2L
- Portafilter Size:54mm
- Included Accessories:stainless steel milk jug, filter baskets, water filter holder, trimming tool, cleaning tablets
Our verdict“This machine caters to style-minded users who want professional features in a colorful, standout design.”
Breville BES881BSS Barista Touch Impress, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Barista Touch Impress elevates the espresso experience with its intuitive touchscreen interface and auto steam wand, making it ideal for those who want barista-quality drinks without the learning curve. Its fast ThermoJet heating system enables quick turnaround, and the pre-programmed 13 coffee options simplify the process for users who value speed and consistency. Compared to the manual and semi-automatic models, this offers less control over grind and shot parameters, but compensates with ease of operation. Its higher price reflects the advanced features, making it less suitable for purists or those on a tight budget. For tech lovers who prioritize convenience, this makes an excellent choice.
Pros:- Auto steam wand for perfect microfoam every time
- Intuitive touchscreen with customizable presets
- Fast ThermoJet heating for quick operation
Cons:- Complex features may require a learning curve
- Higher price point due to advanced tech
- Limited manual control for customization purists
Best for: Users who want quick, customizable coffee with minimal fuss and touchscreen control.
Not ideal for: Traditionalists or those who prefer manual control over every brewing step.
- Material:Brushed Stainless Steel
- Heating System:ThermoJet
- Grinder:Baratza European Precision Burrs, 30 settings
- Touchscreen:Yes
- Preset Coffee Options:13
- Included Accessories:2 free bags of specialty coffee
Our verdict“This machine is best suited for users who prioritize speed, ease, and consistent results over manual control.”
How We Picked
My evaluation focused on performance, usability, build quality, and value. I considered each machine’s ability to produce high-quality espresso consistently, as well as how intuitive they are for different skill levels. Durability and maintenance requirements also played a role, along with feature sets like milk frothing, digital controls, and customization options. The ranking reflects a balance between price and features, prioritizing models that deliver reliable results while offering good value for different types of buyers.Factors to Consider When Choosing Breville
Choosing the right Breville espresso machine depends on several factors beyond just brand reputation. Understanding your skill level, preferred features, and budget can help narrow down your options. Here are key considerations to keep in mind when selecting a Breville model that best fits your coffee routine.Performance and Espresso Quality
Look for machines with high-pressure boilers and consistent temperature control. Machines with a good pump system and stable brewing temperature produce richer, more balanced espresso shots. Cheaper models might struggle with temperature stability, leading to inconsistent results. Consider whether you prefer manual control for a hands-on experience or automated features for convenience.
Ease of Use and Automation
If you’re a beginner, models with touchscreen interfaces and automatic milk frothing can simplify the brewing process. Advanced users might appreciate manual controls for greater customization. Beware of overly complex machines that could require a steep learning curve or maintenance challenges. Automation features also tend to increase the upfront cost but save time and effort.
Build Quality and Aesthetics
Stainless steel finishes tend to be more durable and visually appealing but may come at a higher price. Cheaper plastics can be less durable but may be acceptable for light use. The design should complement your kitchen decor, and sturdy construction ensures longevity. Consider the machine’s size and footprint to match your available space.
Maintenance and Durability
Regular cleaning and descaling are essential for maintaining espresso quality. Machines with automated cleaning cycles or easy-access components can simplify upkeep. Be mindful of machine complexity; more features often mean more parts to maintain or replace over time. Investing in a model with durable materials can reduce long-term repair costs.
Price and Value
Higher-priced models generally offer advanced features and better build quality, suitable for dedicated enthusiasts. Budget options can still deliver good espresso but may lack customization or automation. Balance your desired features with your budget, and consider long-term value over initial cost. Sometimes, spending a bit more upfront leads to a better overall experience and durability.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make professional-quality espresso with a Breville machine?
Yes, many Breville models are designed to produce cafe-quality espresso at home. Features like precise temperature control, pressure profiling, and high-quality boilers contribute to superior results. However, achieving professional-level espresso also depends on your skill, grind size, and tamping technique. Practicing and experimenting with different settings can help you maximize the potential of your machine.
Are automatic milk frothers reliable on Breville machines?
Automatic milk frothers in Breville machines are generally dependable and convenient, especially in higher-end models like the Barista Touch series. They save time and produce consistent foam, but they can occasionally clog or require cleaning. Manual frothing gives more control but demands some skill. Consider your comfort level with frothing techniques when choosing a model.
Is a more expensive Breville model worth the investment?
Higher-priced models typically offer advanced features, better build quality, and more precise control, making them worthwhile for serious coffee enthusiasts. If you value customization and consistency, investing in a premium model can enhance your experience and provide better durability. However, for casual users or beginners, a mid-range or budget model may suffice without sacrificing much quality.
What maintenance is required for Breville espresso machines?
Regular cleaning of the brew head, steam wand, and drip tray helps maintain performance. Descaling is necessary depending on water hardness, typically every 1-3 months. Many models include cleaning alerts or cycles to simplify this process. Proper maintenance ensures consistent espresso quality and extends the lifespan of your machine.
Should I prioritize a machine with a built-in grinder?
Having a built-in grinder adds convenience and can improve espresso freshness, but it also increases the cost and complexity. If you prefer maximum control and customization, external grinders allow for more precise grind settings. For beginners or those looking for a streamlined setup, a machine with a quality built-in grinder is a practical choice, though it might come with tradeoffs in grind consistency and maintenance.
Conclusion
For the casual coffee drinker or someone just starting out, the Breville Bambino Plus offers a straightforward, affordable route to good espresso. Serious enthusiasts who want customizability and precision should consider the BES880BSS Barista Touch, which combines advanced features with ease of use. Those seeking a premium experience with durability and top-tier controls might prefer the BES880BSS or the BES881BSS. Budget-conscious buyers should look at earlier models like the Barista Express, while dedicated hobbyists will find value in investing in higher-end, feature-rich options. Your choice ultimately depends on your skill level, desired features, and how much you’re willing to invest in your at-home coffee setup.
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