Breville has established itself as a leading name for home espresso machines, offering a range of models that balance performance and ease of use. The Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro stands out as the best overall choice, combining advanced features with user-friendly operation. For those prioritizing quick setup, the Bambino Plus offers impressive quality at a more accessible price. Buyers often face a tradeoff between machine complexity and value—more feature-rich models tend to be pricier and require more learning, while simpler machines sacrifice some customization. Keep reading for a detailed breakdown of each model to find the perfect fit for your coffee needs.
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Key Takeaways
- The top-ranked Breville models balance advanced features with user-friendly interfaces, making them suitable for both beginners and experienced baristas.
- Price differences often correlate with build quality, advanced automation, and included accessories—more expensive models generally offer more control.
- Compact models like the Bambino series excel for small kitchens but may lack some customization options found in larger machines.
- The presence of integrated grinders and touchscreen controls often marks the premium models, but these can increase complexity and cost.
- Across the lineup, durability and ease of cleaning emerged as key factors that influence long-term satisfaction.
| Breville BES876BSS Barista Express Impress Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best Overall for Precision and Automation | Capacity: 250g bean hopper, 2L water tank | Grind Settings: 25 | Portafilter Size: 54mm | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES870BTR Barista Express Espresso Machine, Black Truffle |  | Best for Versatility and Customization | Capacity: 1/2 lb Bean Hopper | Water Tank: 67 oz | Power: 1600 Watts | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville Bambino Espresso Machine BES450BSS, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best Compact for Small Spaces | Type: Espresso Machine | Recommended Uses: Office, Home | Operation Mode: Semi-Automatic | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES881BSS Barista Touch Impress Espresso Machine with Built-in Grinder |  | Best for Ease and Guided Brewing | Heating System: ThermoJet | Grinder: Baratza European conical burrs, 30 grind settings | Tamping: Assisted 22 lb tamping with auto correction | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES870XL Barista Express Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for Manual Control and Authenticity | Capacity: 1/2 lb Bean Hopper | Water Tank: 67 oz | Power: 1600 Watts | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES880BSS Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best Overall for Customization and Ease of Use | Power: 1680 Watts | Voltage: 110 to 120 V | Water Tank Capacity: 67 oz | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best Compact for Limited Counter Space | Power: 1560 Watts | Voltage: 110-120 V | Width: 7.7 inches | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES870BSXL Barista Express Espresso Machine, Black Sesame |  | Best for Hands-On Control and Customization | Capacity: 1/2 lb Bean Hopper | Water Tank: 67 oz | Power: 1600 Watts | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES880BTR Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Black Truffle |  | Best for Stylish, High-Performance Customization | 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 |  | Premium Fast-Heat Machine with LCD Display | Power: 1680 Watts | Voltage: 120 Volts | Water Tank Capacity: 67 oz | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville | Included Accessories | Power | Voltage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Breville BES876BSS Barista Exp | Stainless steel milk jug, filter baskets, water filter holder, trimming tool, cleaning tablets | — | — |
| Breville BES870BTR Barista Exp | Stainless Steel Portafilter, Coffee Scoop, Tamper, Milk Jug, Cleaning Tools | 1600 Watts | — |
| Breville Bambino Espresso Mach | — | — | — |
| Breville BES881BSS Barista Tou | — | — | — |
| Breville BES870XL Barista Expr | — | 1600 Watts | — |
| Breville BES880BSS Barista Tou | 54mm stainless steel portafilter, filter baskets, milk jug, water filter, trimming tool, cleaning kit, test strip | 1680 Watts | 110 to 120 V |
| Breville Bambino Plus Espresso | Milk jug, cleaning tools | 1560 Watts | 110-120 V |
| Breville BES870BSXL Barista Ex | Stainless steel portafilter, filter baskets, milk jug, cleaning tools | 1600 Watts | 120 Volts |
| Breville BES880BTR Barista Tou | Portafilter, filters, milk jug, water filter, cleaning kit | 1680 Watts | 110 to 120V |
| Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro | Single & dual wall filter baskets, water filter, cleaning kit | 1680 Watts | 120 Volts |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Breville BES876BSS Barista Express Impress Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Breville BES876BSS Barista Express Impress stands out for its blend of automation and control, making it ideal for those who want consistent café-quality espresso without extensive barista skills. Its automatic dosing and assisted tamping streamline the brewing process, reducing user error, while the built-in grinder with 25 settings allows for customization. Compared to the BES870BTR, it offers more convenience through its intelligent features but at a higher price point. The tradeoff is that setup can be complex for complete beginners, and its size might be challenging for small kitchens. This machine suits dedicated home baristas who value consistency and convenience but don’t mind a steeper learning curve.
Pros:- Automatic dosing and assisted tamping for consistent shots
- Integrated grinder with 25 adjustable settings for customization
- Powerful steam wand for milk texturing and latte art
Cons:- Complex setup may overwhelm beginners
- Relatively large footprint for small kitchens
- Higher price compared to basic models
Best for: Experienced home baristas seeking a semi-automated, consistent espresso experience
Not ideal for: Casual users or small kitchen spaces where size and simplicity matter most
- 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“This pick makes the most sense for those who prioritize automation and precision in home espresso making.”
Breville BES870BTR Barista Express Espresso Machine, Black Truffle
The Breville BES870BTR Barista Express excels at offering a flexible, hands-on espresso experience, making it suitable for those who enjoy adjusting every parameter. Its built-in conical burr grinder with dose control ensures freshly ground coffee, while the manual microfoam milk frothing allows for creative latte art. Compared to the Bambino, it provides more control at the expense of a slightly larger size and complexity. The setup can be daunting for beginners, and regular cleaning is necessary to maintain performance. This machine appeals to coffee enthusiasts who want to fine-tune their brew but are comfortable with a bit of effort.
Pros:- Integrated grinder with dose control for fresh coffee
- Precise temperature control for optimal extraction
- Manual milk frothing for latte art
Cons:- Relatively high price point
- Complex setup for beginners
- Requires regular cleaning and maintenance
Best for: Home baristas eager to experiment with grind size and brewing variables
Not ideal for: Casual users or those seeking a simple, plug-and-play espresso machine
- Capacity:1/2 lb Bean Hopper
- Water Tank:67 oz
- Power:1600 Watts
- Included Accessories:Stainless Steel Portafilter, Coffee Scoop, Tamper, Milk Jug, Cleaning Tools
Our verdict“Ideal for coffee lovers who want to customize every aspect of their espresso shot, despite the learning curve.”
Breville Bambino Espresso Machine BES450BSS, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Breville Bambino BES450BSS offers a streamlined, space-saving solution for making café-quality espresso, making it perfect for small kitchens or office setups. Its rapid heat-up with thermojet technology means you’re ready to brew in just three seconds, while the automatic microfoam wand helps achieve decent latte art with minimal fuss. Compared with larger machines like the BES870XL, its size is a clear advantage, but this also means limited customization options and only ground coffee compatibility. Its manual operation can demand some practice, and the smaller water reservoir requires more frequent refills. This model suits those who want quick, quality espresso without taking up much space.
Pros:- Fast heat-up time with thermojet system
- Compact size fits small spaces easily
- Automatic microfoam milk texturing
Cons:- Limited to ground coffee only
- Manual operation requires some practice
- Smaller water reservoir needs frequent refilling
Best for: Small kitchens, offices, or anyone needing a compact espresso machine
Not ideal for: Enthusiasts seeking extensive customization or those using fresh beans regularly
- Type:Espresso Machine
- Recommended Uses:Office, Home
- Operation Mode:Semi-Automatic
- Wattage:1560 watts
- Input Type:Ground
- Dimensions:13.7″D x 6.3″W x 12″H
- Weight:10.9 pounds
Our verdict“This machine makes the most sense for users who prioritize quick, quality espresso in a tight space.”
Breville BES881BSS Barista Touch Impress Espresso Machine with Built-in Grinder
The Breville BES881BSS Barista Touch Impress offers an intuitive, step-by-step brewing experience, making it ideal for users new to espresso craft or those who want consistency with minimal effort. Its touchscreen interface guides users through each drink, while the built-in grinder with 30 settings ensures maximum flavor extraction. The automatic tamping and milk calibration promote uniform results, and features like cold extraction and customizable presets add versatility. However, the higher price and larger size may deter budget-conscious or space-limited buyers. This machine is perfect for those who want barista-level drinks but prefer guided, automated operation.
Pros:- Touchscreen interface with step-by-step guidance
- Fast 3-second heat-up with ThermoJet
- Built-in grinder with multiple settings for flavor customization
- Automatic tamping and milk calibration for consistent results
Cons:- High price point
- Bulkier size for small kitchens
- Features may be more than needed for casual users
Best for: Beginners and home users who value ease of use and consistent results
Not ideal for: Experienced enthusiasts wanting full manual control or small-space dwellers
- Heating System:ThermoJet
- Grinder:Baratza European conical burrs, 30 grind settings
- Tamping:Assisted 22 lb tamping with auto correction
- Touchscreen:Yes, guides through drink preparation
- Milk Settings:Auto MilQ with 3 calibration options
- Additional Features:Cold extraction, customizable presets
Our verdict“This machine is ideal for those seeking a user-friendly, automated espresso experience with professional results.”
Breville BES870XL Barista Express Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Breville BES870XL offers a classic manual espresso experience, making it the go-to choice for those who want full control over their brewing process. Its built-in grinder with adjustable settings ensures fresh grounds for each shot, while the precise temperature control maximizes flavor extraction. The steam wand provides microfoam for latte art, but mastering microfoam requires practice, especially compared to automated models like the BES881BSS. Its larger footprint might be a concern for limited counter space, and the learning curve can be steep for newcomers. This machine is best for those who want to hone their barista skills and enjoy hands-on brewing.
Pros:- Built-in grinder for fresh coffee grounds
- Precise temperature control for optimal extraction
- Steam wand for microfoam and latte art
Cons:- Relatively high price
- Large footprint and weight
- Steep learning curve for perfect microfoam
Best for: Coffee enthusiasts who want full manual control and the opportunity to develop barista skills
Not ideal for: Casual users or those who prefer quick, automated espresso making
- Capacity:1/2 lb Bean Hopper
- Water Tank:67 oz
- Power:1600 Watts
- Included:Stainless Steel Portafilter, Filter Baskets, Milk Jug, Cleaning Tools
- Warranty:1 Year Limited
Our verdict“Best suited for dedicated coffee lovers eager to master manual espresso brewing and milk texturing.”
Breville BES880BSS Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
This model stands out for its integrated grinder with dose control and a touchscreen interface that simplifies the brewing process, making it ideal for home baristas who want professional-level control without the complexity of manual adjustments. Compared to the Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro, the BES880BSS offers more pre-set options and a more intuitive display, but it also comes with a higher price and a slightly smaller water tank. The automatic milk texturing produces consistently silky microfoam, yet the machine’s rich feature set can be daunting for beginners. Despite its higher cost, the ease of customization and fast heat-up make it a top choice for serious coffee enthusiasts willing to invest in a versatile machine.
Pros:- Integrated grinder with dose control maximizes flavor extraction
- Touchscreen display simplifies operation and customization
- Automatic milk texturing creates barista-quality microfoam
- Fast heat-up with ThermoJet system
Cons:- High price point limits accessibility for budget-conscious buyers
- Complex features may require time to master
- Limited water capacity for frequent use
Best for: Experienced home baristas seeking a highly customizable, user-friendly espresso machine with automatic milk texturing.
Not ideal for: Casual users or newcomers who prefer simple, straightforward machines without a learning curve.
- Power:1680 Watts
- Voltage:110 to 120 V
- Water Tank Capacity:67 oz
- Bean Hopper Capacity:0.5 lbs
- Included Accessories:54mm stainless steel portafilter, filter baskets, milk jug, water filter, trimming tool, cleaning kit, test strip
- Pre-programmed Coffee Settings:5
- Custom Settings:8
Our verdict“This machine is best suited for experienced enthusiasts who want a fully customizable, high-tech espresso experience at home.”
Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Bambino Plus makes the list for its combination of a small footprint and quick, quality results. Its compact width of just 7.7 inches makes it ideal for kitchens with limited space, yet it still delivers café-quality espresso and milk-based drinks thanks to its automatic microfoam system. Compared with the Breville BES878BSS Barista Express, it sacrifices some grind customization but excels in ease of use and speed, with a rapid heat-up time via ThermoJet. While it’s perfect for those new to espresso or with limited room, the higher price relative to basic models and the need for some practice to perfect milk texturing can be drawbacks. Overall, it’s a solid choice for space-conscious users who prioritize convenience without sacrificing quality.
Pros:- Compact size fits small kitchens easily
- Fast heat-up with ThermoJet system
- Automatic microfoam milk texturing simplifies drink making
- Precise temperature control for optimal extraction
Cons:- Limited to home use, not suitable for high-volume demands
- Higher price for a compact machine
- Requires some learning to master milk texturing
Best for: Small apartment dwellers or first-time espresso drinkers wanting quick, high-quality drinks in a compact size.
Not ideal for: Those needing a high-volume machine or who prefer extensive grind customization and manual control.
- Power:1560 Watts
- Voltage:110-120 V
- Width:7.7 inches
- Warranty:2 Years
- Water Tank Capacity:67 oz
- Included Accessories:Milk jug, cleaning tools
Our verdict“This machine is perfect for space-limited users who want quick, quality espresso with minimal fuss.”
Breville BES870BSXL Barista Express Espresso Machine, Black Sesame
The Barista Express is ideal for those who want a more manual, hands-on approach to espresso making. Its built-in conical burr grinder ensures fresh grounds, and the manual microfoam milk texturing allows for latte art. Compared to the Breville BES880BSS Barista Touch, it offers less automation but provides more control over grind size and tamping, appealing to users who enjoy crafting each shot. The larger footprint and learning curve for beginners are tradeoffs, but for those willing to invest time, it offers a more personalized experience. Its sturdy build and comprehensive features make it a favorite for dedicated home baristas willing to learn the craft.
Pros:- Built-in conical burr grinder for fresh grounds
- Manual microfoam milk texturing for latte art
- Precise temperature control for optimal extraction
- Adjustable grind size and dose for customization
Cons:- Relatively high price for its features
- Bulky size may require significant counter space
- Steeper learning curve for beginners
Best for: Coffee hobbyists who want to refine their barista skills with manual control and customization.
Not ideal for: Casual drinkers or those seeking quick, push-button convenience without much effort.
- Capacity:1/2 lb Bean Hopper
- Water Tank:67 oz
- Power:1600 Watts
- Voltage:120 Volts
- Included Accessories:Stainless steel portafilter, filter baskets, milk jug, cleaning tools
- Warranty:1 Year Limited
Our verdict“This machine suits dedicated coffee enthusiasts eager to control every aspect of their espresso shot at home.”
Breville BES880BTR Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Black Truffle
The Barista Touch Black Truffle keeps the same core features as the brushed stainless version but adds a sleek, stylish design aimed at users who value aesthetics alongside performance. Its integrated grinder, touchscreen interface, and automatic milk texturing mirror those of the BES880BSS, yet the Black Truffle finish makes it a statement piece. Compared with the Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro, it prioritizes style and user experience, with some tradeoffs in durability and price. Its automatic features make it easy for users to craft consistent drinks, but higher power consumption and a premium price tag can be limiting factors. It’s best for those who want both form and function in a high-end home espresso machine.
Pros:- Sleek, stylish Black Truffle finish enhances kitchen decor
- Touchscreen interface for easy operation
- Automatic milk texturing for professional-quality microfoam
- Integrated grinder with dose control
Cons:- Higher power consumption may impact energy use
- Premium price limits accessibility for some buyers
- Limited worldwide compatibility due to voltage
Best for: Design-conscious coffee lovers who want a stylish, easy-to-use machine with consistent quality.
Not ideal for: Budget buyers or those seeking manual control over grind and extraction details.
- Power:1680 Watts
- Voltage:110 to 120V
- Water Tank Capacity:67 oz
- Bean Hopper Capacity:1/2 lb
- Included Accessories:Portafilter, filters, milk jug, water filter, cleaning kit
- Warranty:2 Years
Our verdict“This machine is best for style-savvy users who want hassle-free, high-quality espresso at home with a premium look.”
Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Barista Pro offers a step up for users seeking quick heat-up times and a modern interface. Its built-in grinder, combined with an LCD display and adjustable grind control, makes it easier to dial in your perfect shot. Compared with the BES870BSXL, it emphasizes speed and ease of use, with a more streamlined user experience. The tradeoff lies in its complexity—beginners may find the array of features overwhelming, and it’s priced higher than basic models. For those who value efficiency and digital control, the Barista Pro stands out as a high-performance choice for home espresso enthusiasts willing to learn the advanced features.
Pros:- Fast heat-up with ThermoJet technology
- Built-in grinder with adjustable grind control
- Modern LCD display for intuitive operation
- Automatic shot volume control
Cons:- More complex interface may be confusing for newcomers
- Higher price compared to entry-level machines
- Potentially overwhelming feature set for casual users
Best for: Intermediate to advanced home baristas wanting quick setup and digital customization.
Not ideal for: Absolute beginners or users looking for a simple, plug-and-play espresso machine.
- Power:1680 Watts
- Voltage:120 Volts
- Water Tank Capacity:67 oz
- Included Accessories:Single & dual wall filter baskets, water filter, cleaning kit
- Features:Built-in grinder, LCD display, adjustable grind control
Our verdict“This machine suits users eager for speed, digital control, and a modern interface to elevate their home espresso game.”
How We Picked
Our evaluation focused on performance, usability, build quality, maintenance, and value. We compared extraction quality, steaming power, and consistency across different models. Ease of use was crucial, especially for beginners, so intuitive controls and setup were prioritized. We also considered durability and customer feedback about long-term reliability. The ranking reflects a balance between features and affordability, ensuring each pick offers distinct advantages for specific user needs.Factors to Consider When Choosing Breville
Choosing the right Breville espresso machine involves considering several key factors to match your brewing style and space. Beyond features, understanding tradeoffs—such as automation versus customization—can help you make an informed decision. Budget constraints, kitchen size, and experience level all influence the best choice for you. This guide highlights the main points to consider so you can select a machine that aligns with your coffee goals.Performance and Extraction Quality
The core of any espresso machine is its ability to produce rich, well-balanced shots. Look for models with consistent temperature control and pressure stability. More advanced machines often include PID temperature controls, which improve shot quality, but they come at a higher price. Cheaper models may produce decent espresso but can struggle with consistency, leading to disappointing results. Evaluating user reviews for real-world performance can reveal how well a machine maintains quality over time.Ease of Use and Automation
If you’re new to espresso, machines with automatic features like pre-programmed shots, steam, and milk frothing can simplify the process. However, these often reduce control over extraction parameters. Manual or semi-automatic models give experienced users more flexibility but require some learning curve. Consider whether you prefer a quick setup or enjoy fine-tuning each shot. Automation features tend to add to the cost but can save time and reduce frustration.Build Quality and Durability
A sturdy construction with high-quality materials like stainless steel translates to a longer-lasting machine that can withstand daily use. Cheaper plastic components may save money initially but can wear out faster. Pay attention to customer feedback regarding reliability and repairs. Machines with well-sealed water reservoirs and easy-to-clean components tend to perform better over years of use, especially if you plan to brew regularly.Size and Kitchen Fit
Espresso machines come in a range of sizes, from compact models to larger, feature-rich options. Measure your available counter space carefully—some high-end machines can be quite bulky. Compact models like the Bambino are ideal for small kitchens but may sacrifice some features or capacity. Consider whether you need portability or a permanent setup, and choose a model that fits comfortably without cluttering your workspace.Additional Features and Accessories
Features like built-in grinders, touchscreen controls, and programmable settings enhance convenience but also increase complexity and cost. Some models include accessories like tampers, cleaning kits, and milk frothing pitchers. Decide which extras are worth paying for based on how you plan to use the machine. For example, a built-in grinder is great for convenience but may limit upgrade options later if you prefer a different grinder.Frequently Asked Questions
Is a built-in grinder worth it in a Breville espresso machine?
A built-in grinder can significantly streamline your espresso routine, eliminating the need for a separate grinder and ensuring fresh grounds for every shot. It’s especially beneficial if you value convenience and want a compact setup. However, integrated grinders often come with limited grind size options and may be less capable of delivering precise control compared to dedicated burr grinders. If you’re serious about espresso quality and enjoy experimenting, a machine without a grinder might offer more flexibility and upgrade potential.How difficult is it to learn to use a Breville espresso machine?
Breville machines are generally designed with user-friendliness in mind, especially models with automation features. Beginners may find machines with pre-programmed shot buttons easier to operate, reducing the initial learning curve. More manual models require understanding tamping, grind size, and extraction timing, which can take some practice. Many users find that following the included guides and tutorials shortens the learning process, making good espresso achievable even for newcomers.Do I need a separate grinder for a Breville espresso machine?
While some Breville models include built-in grinders, most do not, and many users prefer a dedicated grinder for better grind consistency and control. External grinders typically offer more grind size options and finer adjustments, which are key to dialing in perfect shots. If you’re serious about espresso quality and want maximum control, investing in a separate burr grinder makes sense. However, for simpler setups or beginners, a machine with a built-in grinder can be a convenient all-in-one solution.Are higher-end Breville models worth the extra cost?
Premium Breville models often include advanced features like touchscreens, PID temperature control, and more powerful steam wands, which can improve shot quality and steaming performance. If you brew frequently or aim for barista-level results, these features can justify the higher price. However, they also tend to be more complex and may require a learning curve. For casual users or those on a budget, more affordable models still deliver solid espresso without all the bells and whistles.How important is customer service and warranty when buying a Breville?
A strong warranty and responsive customer service can be critical, especially for high-end machines that involve more complex components. Breville generally offers good support, but reviews indicate that timely repairs and parts availability can vary. Ensuring you purchase from a reputable retailer with good return policies can also help mitigate potential issues. Investing in a machine with a solid warranty provides peace of mind, especially if you’re spending more on a premium model.Conclusion
For casual coffee drinkers or those new to espresso, the Bambino Plus offers a straightforward, budget-friendly way to enjoy quality brews without fuss. Serious enthusiasts who want more control and customization will appreciate the Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro or Barista Touch, which deliver professional features in a home-friendly package. If you prefer a seamless, all-in-one experience and are willing to invest, the Barista Pro stands out as the best overall. For those seeking durability and high-end features, the Barista Pro or Barista Touch provide excellent long-term value. Ultimately, your choice depends on your skill level, budget, and how much you value convenience versus control.Fall Picks
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