Breville remains a leading name in home espresso machines, offering a range of options from entry-level to professional-grade. The Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro stands out as the best overall choice for its balance of features and ease of use, while the Bambino offers a compact, budget-friendly alternative for beginners. The main tradeoffs involve balancing price against advanced features, with some models prioritizing automation over customization. Continue reading to see how each Breville stacks up and find the best fit for your coffee needs.
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Key Takeaways
- The top models blend user-friendly interfaces with professional-quality espresso extraction.
- Price varies significantly, with premium picks offering more automation and customization.
- Design and build quality are consistent across the lineup, but size and footprint differ.
- Entry-level models like the Bambino focus on simplicity, sacrificing some advanced features.
- Choosing the right Breville depends heavily on your skill level and how much control you want.
| Breville BES870XL Barista Express Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best Overall for Home Baristas | Capacity: 1/2 lb Bean Hopper | Water Tank: 67 oz | Power: 1600 Watts | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for Tech-Savvy Beginners and Quick Results | Capacity: 1/2 lb Bean Hopper | Water Tank: 67 oz | Power: 1680 Watts | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES880BSS Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for Automated Convenience with Customization | Model: BES880BSS | Material: Brushed Stainless Steel | Power: 1680 Watts | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES876DBL Barista Express Impress, Damson Blue |  | Best for Stylish Control and Precise Dosing | Bean Hopper Capacity: 250g | Water Tank Capacity: 2L | Grind Settings: 25 | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES870BTR Barista Express Espresso Machine, Black Truffle |  | Best for Traditional Manual Control and Fresh Grounds | Capacity: 1/2 lb Bean Hopper | Water Tank: 67 oz | Power: 1600 Watts | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville Bambino Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best Compact Entry-Level Espresso Machine | Power: 1560 Watts | Voltage: 110 to 120 Volts | Brew Size Options: 1 or 2 Cups | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES985BSS Oracle Jet Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for Precise Automation and Consistency | Material: Brushed Stainless Steel | Portafilter Size: 58mm | Burrs: Baratza European Precision Burrs | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES876BSS Barista Express Impress, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best User-Friendly Professional-Grade Machine | Capacity: 250g bean hopper, 2L water tank | Grind Settings: 25 | Included Accessories: 54mm stainless steel portafilter, 480ml milk jug | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES881BSS Barista Touch Impress, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for Touchscreen Convenience and Versatility | Material: Brushed Stainless Steel | Heating System: ThermoJet | Grinder: Baratza European precision conical burrs | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES880BTR Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Black Truffle |  | Best for Third Wave Specialty Coffee at Home | Power: 1680 Watts | Water Tank Capacity: 67 oz | Bean Hopper Capacity: 0.5 lbs | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville | Included Accessories | Power | Voltage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Breville BES870XL Barista Expr | 54mm Stainless Steel Portafilter, Single & Dual Wall Filter Baskets, Coffee Scoop, Tamper, Milk Jug, Cleaning Tools, Water Filter | 1600 Watts | 120 Volts |
| Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro | Single & Dual Wall Filter Baskets, Razor Dose Trimming Tool, Milk Jug, Cleaning Kit, Water Filter | 1680 Watts | 120 Volts |
| Breville BES880BSS Barista Tou | Portafilter, Filter Baskets, Milk Jug, Water Filter, Trimming Tool, Cleaning Kit, Test Strip | 1680 Watts | 110-120V |
| Breville BES876DBL Barista Exp | Stainless steel portafilter, milk jug, filter baskets, water filter holder, trimming tool, cleaning tablets | — | — |
| Breville BES870BTR Barista Exp | 54mm Stainless Steel Portafilter, Coffee Scoop, Integrated Tamper, Milk Jug, Cleaning Tools, Water Filter | 1600 Watts | 120 Volts |
| Breville Bambino Espresso Mach | Single Wall & Dual Wall Filter Baskets, Milk Jug, Portafilter, Tamper, Steam Wand Tip Cleaning Tool, Descaling Powder | 1560 Watts | 110 to 120 Volts |
| Breville BES985BSS Oracle Jet | — | — | — |
| Breville BES876BSS Barista Exp | 54mm stainless steel portafilter, 480ml milk jug | — | — |
| Breville BES881BSS Barista Tou | — | — | — |
| Breville BES880BTR Barista Tou | — | 1680 Watts | — |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Breville BES870XL Barista Express Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
This model stands out for its all-in-one design, combining a built-in conical burr grinder with precise temperature control to deliver café-quality espresso. Compared to the Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro, it offers a more traditional interface but requires more setup and maintenance, which could be a hurdle for beginners. Its manual steam wand makes it ideal for those who enjoy microfoam milk texturing but demands some skill to master. The higher price point reflects its comprehensive feature set, making it a solid choice for dedicated home baristas who value control and quality over simplicity.
Pros:- Built-in conical burr grinder for maximum freshness
- Precise temperature control for optimal extraction
- Powerful steam wand for microfoam and latte art
- All-in-one design simplifies setup
Cons:- Relatively complex for beginners to operate
- Requires regular cleaning and maintenance
- Higher price compared to basic espresso machines
Best for: Serious home coffee enthusiasts who want a complete, all-in-one espresso station
Not ideal for: Casual users or those new to espresso who prefer simplicity and minimal maintenance
- Capacity:1/2 lb Bean Hopper
- Water Tank:67 oz
- Power:1600 Watts
- Voltage:120 Volts
- Included Accessories:54mm Stainless Steel Portafilter, Single & Dual Wall Filter Baskets, Coffee Scoop, Tamper, Milk Jug, Cleaning Tools, Water Filter
- Features:Built-in grinder, PID temperature control, manual microfoam steam wand, adjustable grind size
Our verdict“This is best suited for committed home baristas seeking a comprehensive, high-quality espresso experience.”
Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Breville Barista Pro makes this list for its rapid heat-up with the ThermoJet system and intuitive LCD interface, making it easier for newcomers to produce quality espresso quickly. Unlike the BES870XL, it offers a more modern, touchscreen-like experience, with guided progress animations that reduce the learning curve. Its built-in grinder and precise temperature control ensure consistent results, but the higher price and complex features might overwhelm users new to espresso machines. Its limited capacity means frequent refills if used heavily, but for those wanting speed and ease, it’s a compelling choice.
Pros:- Fast heat-up time with ThermoJet system
- User-friendly LCD interface with guided progress
- Automatic microfoam milk texturing for consistent drinks
- Precise temperature control for extraction
Cons:- Higher price point may deter casual buyers
- Features can be complex for complete novices
- Limited capacity for frequent use without refilling
Best for: Beginner baristas who want quick, reliable results with minimal fuss
Not ideal for: Experienced users seeking deep customization or those with limited counter space
- 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“Ideal for beginners who prioritize speed and simplicity without sacrificing quality.”
Breville BES880BSS Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Breville Barista Touch offers a compelling blend of automation and personalization, featuring a touchscreen interface that allows users to select and customize drinks easily. Its automatic microfoam milk texturing and fast heat-up with the ThermoJet system make it a favorite for those who appreciate convenience. Compared to the BES870XL, its touchscreen and programmable profiles simplify operation, but the higher cost and bulkier size may be less suitable for small kitchens. It’s best for users who want a barista-quality machine with minimal manual effort while still enjoying some level of personalization.
Pros:- Touchscreen with customizable coffee profiles
- Automatic microfoam milk texturing for consistent drinks
- Fast heat-up with ThermoJet system
- Includes comprehensive accessories and free beans
Cons:- Higher price point than semi-automatic options
- Complex features may require initial learning
- Bulkier size may not fit in small kitchens
Best for: Home users seeking a balance between automation and customization with minimal effort
Not ideal for: Coffee purists who prefer manual control or limited space for larger machines
- Model:BES880BSS
- Material:Brushed Stainless Steel
- Power:1680 Watts
- Voltage:110-120V
- Water Tank Capacity:67 oz
- Included Accessories:Portafilter, Filter Baskets, Milk Jug, Water Filter, Trimming Tool, Cleaning Kit, Test Strip
- Warranty:2 Years
Our verdict“Best suited for those who want a highly automated, customizable coffee experience at home.”
Breville BES876DBL Barista Express Impress, Damson Blue
This model makes the list for its combination of style and smart features, including a built-in conical burr grinder with 25 settings and an intelligent dosing system that ensures consistent extraction. Compared with the BES870XL, it offers a more modern aesthetic and enhanced dosing precision, suitable for users who want both form and function. The manual microfoam wand provides barista-level milk texturing, but the complexity and lack of detailed weight specifications could be drawbacks for beginners. It fits well in stylish kitchens and for those who value advanced control without sacrificing ease of use.
Pros:- Built-in conical burr grinder with 25 adjustable settings
- Intelligent dosing system for precise extraction
- Manual microfoam wand for latte art
- Stylish Damson Blue finish
Cons:- No specific weight info available, which could impact portability
- Complex features might be overwhelming for absolute beginners
- Price range not specifically defined
Best for: Design-conscious coffee lovers who want precise control and consistent results
Not ideal for: Total beginners or those looking for a straightforward, no-fuss machine
- Bean Hopper Capacity:250g
- Water Tank Capacity:2L
- Grind Settings:25
- Portafilter Size:54mm
- Included Accessories:Stainless steel portafilter, milk jug, filter baskets, water filter holder, trimming tool, cleaning tablets
Our verdict“Ideal for style-conscious users who want a high degree of control and consistent espresso quality.”
Breville BES870BTR Barista Express Espresso Machine, Black Truffle
The Breville Barista Express in Black Truffle earns its spot for offering hands-on control, featuring a built-in conical burr grinder and a manual override that appeals to those who want to fine-tune every shot. Unlike the BES880BSS, it emphasizes manual operation over automation, making it suitable for experienced users who enjoy the craft of espresso making. However, its slightly older design and the need for some skill to operate effectively could be drawbacks for newcomers. It’s a strong choice for purists who prioritize manual control and fresh grounds over automation.
Pros:- Built-in conical burr grinder for fresh grounds
- PID temperature control for accurate extraction
- Manual override for full control
- All-in-one design for convenience
Cons:- Relatively high price for a manual machine
- Requires skill to operate optimally
- Limited water capacity for heavy daily use
Best for: Experienced home baristas who want full manual control and fresh grinding capabilities
Not ideal for: Beginners or users seeking quick, automated results without much effort
- Capacity:1/2 lb Bean Hopper
- Water Tank:67 oz
- Power:1600 Watts
- Voltage:120 Volts
- Included Accessories:54mm Stainless Steel Portafilter, Coffee Scoop, Integrated Tamper, Milk Jug, Cleaning Tools, Water Filter
- Features:Built-in grinder, PID temperature control, adjustable grind size, manual override
Our verdict“Perfect for seasoned coffee lovers who want precise manual control and fresh grounds in a stylish package.”
Breville Bambino Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Breville Bambino stands out for its ultra-quick ThermoJet heat-up in just 3 seconds, making it perfect for busy mornings. Its compact design suits small kitchens where space is at a premium, unlike larger models like the BES880BSS, which demand more counter real estate. While it offers manual control for milk texturing, it requires some practice to master consistent shots, especially without a built-in grinder. Compared to full-featured machines like the BES985BSS, the Bambino sacrifices advanced automation, but this makes it more accessible for beginners. Its lack of a grinder means you need pre-ground coffee, which could be a drawback for those seeking complete control. This pick is ideal for new espresso enthusiasts who want quality without complexity.
Pros:- Fast heat-up with ThermoJet system (3 seconds)
- Space-saving, compact size fits small kitchens
- Manual steam wand allows for microfoam milk
Cons:- Limited to home use; not suitable for high-volume settings
- Requires learning curve for milk texturing and extraction
Best for: Small-space dwellers or beginners seeking quick, quality espresso without fuss
Not ideal for: High-volume users or those wanting an integrated grinder and advanced features
- Power:1560 Watts
- Voltage:110 to 120 Volts
- Brew Size Options:1 or 2 Cups
- Heating System:ThermoJet
- Material:Brushed Stainless Steel
- Included Accessories:Single Wall & Dual Wall Filter Baskets, Milk Jug, Portafilter, Tamper, Steam Wand Tip Cleaning Tool, Descaling Powder
Our verdict“This machine is perfect for newcomers who need quick, quality espresso in a small footprint.”
Breville BES985BSS Oracle Jet Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The BES985BSS Oracle Jet elevates home espresso with automatic grinding, dosing, and tamping, providing consistent shots that rival professional setups. Its customizable temperature control and rapid ThermoJet heating mean you can fine-tune every extraction, a step above simpler machines like the Barista Express Impress. However, this sophistication comes with a steeper learning curve and a higher price tag, making it less suitable for casual users. Its size and weight are notable considerations for those with limited counter space. This machine is best suited for dedicated home baristas who value automation and precision.
Pros:- Automatic grinding, dosing, and tamping ensure consistent shots
- Fast heat-up with ThermoJet system improves workflow
- Precise temperature adjustment for optimal extraction
Cons:- Complex setup may challenge beginners
- Higher cost compared to manual or semi-automatic machines
- Size and weight require dedicated space
Best for: Experienced coffee lovers wanting consistent, café-quality espresso at home with minimal effort
Not ideal for: Beginners or those with limited space who prefer manual control or a lower price point
- Material:Brushed Stainless Steel
- Portafilter Size:58mm
- Burrs:Baratza European Precision Burrs
- Heating System:ThermoJet
- Temperature Adjustment:+/- 1 degree
- Grind Settings:45
- Included Coffee Bags:2 free bags of specialty coffee
Our verdict“This machine is ideal for serious home baristas who prioritize consistency and automation over simplicity.”
Breville BES876BSS Barista Express Impress, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Barista Express Impress combines professional features with intuitive operation, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced espresso lovers. Its integrated conical burr grinder with 25 settings ensures fresh grounds for each shot, unlike machines without an in-built grinder. The manual microfoam wand and intelligent dosing system facilitate high-quality milk texturing and precise extraction, competing well with more expensive models like the BES880BSS. However, its complex setup and maintenance requirements can be daunting for first-timers. This machine offers a balance between professional features and approachable operation, but it does require regular cleaning. This is a versatile choice for those wanting a semi-automatic machine with built-in grinding.
Pros:- Professional-grade microfoam for latte art
- Integrated grinder with 25 settings for fresh grounds
- Precise dosing and customizable shot volume
Cons:- Complex initial setup might challenge beginners
- Higher price point than basic machines
- Requires consistent cleaning and maintenance
Best for: Home baristas seeking professional features with straightforward operation and integrated grinding
Not ideal for: Absolute beginners uncomfortable with setup or maintenance, or those with limited space
- Capacity:250g bean hopper, 2L water tank
- Grind Settings:25
- Included Accessories:54mm stainless steel portafilter, 480ml milk jug
- Features:Manual microfoam wand, intelligent dosing
Our verdict“This machine suits those who want a semi-automatic with integrated grinding without sacrificing quality or control.”
Breville BES881BSS Barista Touch Impress, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Barista Touch Impress excels with its intuitive touchscreen interface and preset options, streamlining the espresso-making process for users who value customization. Its auto steam wand and multiple preset drinks make it easier than manual models like the BES876BSS, especially for those who prefer quick results. The inclusion of features like cold brew functionality and alternative milk options enhances versatility. However, its larger footprint and more complex setup may be less appealing for tight kitchens or those new to espresso machines. Compared to the BES880BSS, it offers more automation but at a higher cost and space requirement. This pick makes the most sense for home baristas who want convenience and variety at their fingertips.
Pros:- Touchscreen with customizable preset drinks
- Auto steam wand simplifies milk texturing
- Versatile with cold brew and alternative milk options
Cons:- Setup may be complex for beginners
- Higher price point compared to basic models
- Size might require more counter space
Best for: Home users who prioritize ease of use, quick customization, and advanced features
Not ideal for: Minimalists or those with limited space who prefer manual control or simpler machines
- Material:Brushed Stainless Steel
- Heating System:ThermoJet
- Grinder:Baratza European precision conical burrs
- Grind Settings:30
- Touchscreen:Yes
- Preset Drinks:8
- Cold Brew Function:Yes
Our verdict“This machine is ideal for those seeking a highly automated, versatile espresso experience with minimal fuss.”
Breville BES880BTR Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Black Truffle
The BES880BTR Barista Touch combines sleek design with advanced technology, offering a true third wave coffee experience. Its integrated conical burr grinder, digital temperature control, and intuitive touchscreen make it easy to craft personalized drinks, from espresso to frothy lattes. The automatic microfoam milk wand simplifies milk texturing for latte art, and the fast 3-second heat-up keeps pace with busy schedules. While the advanced features allow detailed customization, they can be overwhelming for beginners, and the machine’s high price reflects its premium positioning. Compared to other models like the BES876BSS, it offers more refined control and modern aesthetics. This is a strong choice for serious enthusiasts who want a true third wave experience at home.
Pros:- Touchscreen with pre-programmed and customizable settings
- Fast heat-up with ThermoJet system
- Integrated grinder with dose control for fresh coffee
Cons:- High price point
- Complex features may require learning curve
- Limited bean hopper capacity
Best for: Home baristas who appreciate advanced features, customization, and sleek design
Not ideal for: Casual users or those with limited space who prefer manual operation or lower-cost options
- Power:1680 Watts
- Water Tank Capacity:67 oz
- Bean Hopper Capacity:0.5 lbs
- Display:Touchscreen
- Pre-Programmed Settings:5
- Adjustable Grind:Yes
Our verdict“This machine is ideal for dedicated coffee lovers seeking a premium, customizable espresso experience at home.”
How We Picked
The products in this roundup were selected based on a combination of performance, usability, build quality, and value. We prioritized machines that balance ease of use with the ability to produce high-quality espresso, considering both beginner-friendly options and more advanced models for enthusiasts. Our rankings reflect a mix of customer reviews, feature sets, and price points, ensuring a broad spectrum of needs is addressed. Devices with reliable durability and consistent performance were rated higher, while factors like maintenance complexity and price were also key to our evaluation.Factors to Consider When Choosing Breville
When choosing a Breville espresso machine, it’s important to consider several factors beyond just features. Your skill level, space constraints, and how much you’re willing to spend all influence the best choice for you. Understanding these factors can help you avoid common pitfalls like overpaying for unnecessary automation or settling for a machine that’s too complicated. Below are key considerations to keep in mind.Ease of Use and Automation
If you’re new to espresso, models with automated features like programmable shot volumes and steam wands can make the process simpler. However, more automation often means a higher price and less control over the brewing process. Advanced users may prefer manual control to fine-tune their espresso, but this requires more skill and practice. Balancing your comfort level with your brewing ambitions will help narrow your options.
Size and Kitchen Footprint
Breville offers both compact and larger models, so consider your available counter space. Smaller machines like the Bambino are ideal for tight kitchens but may lack some features of full-sized models. Larger machines often incorporate more advanced components and automation, but they require more space and may be less convenient for daily use. Measure your area carefully before committing.
Build Quality and Durability
Most Breville machines feature sturdy stainless steel construction, ensuring longevity. Cheaper or more compact models might use lighter materials that could wear faster over time. If you plan to use your machine frequently, investing in a higher-end model with solid build quality can pay off through consistent performance and longer lifespan. Consider reviews about reliability to gauge durability.
Features and Customization
Features like PID temperature control, programmable shots, and steam wand control vary across models. More features give you greater control over brewing, but they also add complexity and cost. Decide whether you prefer a straightforward machine or one that allows for detailed customization. For occasional use, a simpler model might suffice, but serious enthusiasts will benefit from advanced controls.
Price and Value
Pricing in the Breville lineup ranges from budget-friendly to premium. Higher prices often correlate with more automation, better build quality, and advanced features. However, some mid-range models provide excellent value, balancing affordability with performance. Be wary of paying for features you won’t use. Set a budget based on your needs and look for the best features within that range.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a higher-end Breville machine worth the extra cost?
Higher-end Breville models typically offer more automation, precise temperature control, and better build quality, which can improve the overall experience and consistency. If you make espresso frequently and want the convenience of programmable features, investing in a premium model can be worthwhile. However, for casual users or beginners, mid-range options often provide excellent performance without the hefty price tag.
Can I use pre-ground coffee with Breville machines?
Many Breville models include a dedicated portafilter and basket for pre-ground coffee, making them versatile for users who don’t grind beans daily. However, for optimal flavor and control, grinding fresh beans is recommended. Machines with built-in grinders or dosing features greatly enhance convenience, but those that rely on pre-ground coffee may require some adjustment to achieve the best results.
How much maintenance do Breville espresso machines require?
Regular maintenance involves descaling, cleaning the portafilter and steam wand, and replacing water filters if applicable. Most Breville models are designed for easy cleaning, but the frequency depends on usage and water hardness. Proper upkeep ensures consistent performance and extends the lifespan of your machine, making it worth incorporating into your routine.
Are Breville espresso machines suitable for a beginner?
Yes, many Breville models are beginner-friendly, offering intuitive interfaces and automated features that simplify espresso making. Machines like the Bambino or Barista Express strike a good balance between ease of use and quality. However, some higher-end models with manual controls might be better suited for those willing to learn the craft and invest more time in perfecting their technique.
Should I prioritize a machine with a built-in grinder?
A built-in grinder adds convenience and helps ensure freshness with every shot, which is beneficial for serious espresso enthusiasts. However, standalone grinders often provide better grind consistency and control. If space and budget allow, choosing a machine with a quality integrated grinder can streamline your process, but dedicated grinders tend to deliver superior results for those committed to espresso quality.
Conclusion
For those new to espresso or seeking a straightforward, reliable machine, the Breville Bambino offers simplicity and value. Serious enthusiasts who want advanced control and consistency might prefer the Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro or the Oracle Jet for their extensive features. If you’re looking for the best overall, the Barista Express strikes a balance of performance and ease of use. Budget-conscious buyers should consider mid-range models, while premium buyers will find the Oracle Jet and similar options worth the investment for ultimate control and durability. Your choice ultimately depends on your skill level, space, and how much you’re willing to invest in your home espresso setup.
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