Breville offers a wide range of kitchen appliances, especially known for their espresso machines that blend performance with sleek design. The Breville BES870BTR Barista Express stands out as the best overall pick for its balance of features and ease of use. For those seeking a more advanced experience, the Barista Touch Impress offers touchscreen controls and customization, though at a higher price. Buyers often face the tradeoff between cost and features, with premium models providing more automation and build quality. Continue reading for a detailed breakdown of the top options and what makes each unique.
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Key Takeaways
- The top-ranked Breville models balance espresso quality with user-friendly features, making them suitable for both beginners and enthusiasts.
- Premium options like the Barista Touch Impress add touchscreen controls and customization but come with a higher price tag.
- Build quality and design vary across models, with brushed stainless steel offering durability and aesthetics.
- Price often correlates with features; more expensive models include advanced steaming, digital displays, and programmable settings.
- Choosing the right Breville depends heavily on your skill level, budget, and whether you prioritize automation or manual control.
| Breville BES870BTR Barista Express Espresso Machine, Black Truffle |  | Best Overall for Versatile Home Baristas | 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 for Small Kitchens and Quick Espresso | Power: 1560 Watts | Voltage: 110-120 Volts | Water Tank Capacity: not specified | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES876BST Barista Express Impress, Black Stainless Steel |  | Best for Precision and Consistency at Home | Capacity: 250g bean hopper, 2L water tank | Grind Settings: 25 | Portafilter Size: 54mm | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES870BSXL Barista Express Espresso Machine, Black Sesame |  | Best for Customization and Fresh Grounds | Capacity: 1/2 lb Bean Hopper, 67 oz Water Tank | Power: 1600 Watts | Voltage: 120 Volts | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES881BSS Barista Touch Impress, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for Tech-Savvy Home Baristas | Material: Brushed Stainless Steel | Heating System: ThermoJet | Grinder: Baratza European conical burrs, 30 grind settings | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES880BSS Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for Tech-Savvy Home Baristas | Power: 1680 Watts | Voltage: 110-120V | Water Tank Capacity: 67 oz | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES870XL Barista Express Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for Beginners Who Want Control | 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 Intermediate Users Seeking Speed and Precision | Capacity: 1/2 lb Bean Hopper, 67 oz Water Tank | Power: 1680 Watts | Voltage: 120 Volts | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES876DBL Barista Express Impress, Damson Blue |  | Best for Professional-Level Control and Auto Features | Capacity: 250g bean hopper, 2L water tank | Grind Settings: 25 | Included Accessories: 54mm portafilter, milk jug, filter baskets, cleaning tablets | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES876BSS Barista Express Impress, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for Versatile Home Baristas Who Value Ease | Capacity: 250g bean hopper, 2L water tank | Grind Settings: 25 | Included Accessories: 54mm portafilter, cleaning tablets, milk jug | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville | Included Accessories | Capacity | Power | Voltage |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Breville BES870BTR Barista Exp | Razor Dose Trimming Tool, Stainless Steel Portafilter, Filter Baskets, Coffee Scoop, Tamper, Milk Jug, Cleaning Tools, Water Filter | 1/2 lb Bean Hopper | 1600 Watts | 120 Volts |
| Breville Bambino Espresso Mach | 1 & 2 cup filter baskets, milk jug, portafilter, tamper, cleaning tool, descaling powder | — | 1560 Watts | 110-120 Volts |
| Breville BES876BST Barista Exp | Milk jug, filter baskets, water filter holder, trimming tool, cleaning tablets | 250g bean hopper, 2L water tank | — | — |
| Breville BES870BSXL Barista Ex | Stainless steel portafilter, filter baskets, tamper, milk jug, cleaning tools | 1/2 lb Bean Hopper, 67 oz Water Tank | 1600 Watts | 120 Volts |
| Breville BES881BSS Barista Tou | — | — | — | — |
| Breville BES880BSS Barista Tou | Stainless Steel Portafilter, Water Filter, Milk Jug, Cleaning Kit | — | 1680 Watts | 110-120V |
| Breville BES870XL Barista Expr | Razor Dose Trimming Tool, Stainless Steel Portafilter, Filter Baskets, Coffee Scoop, Tamper, Milk Jug, Cleaning Tools, Water Filter | 1/2 lb Bean Hopper | 1600 Watts | 120 Volts |
| Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro | Single & Dual Wall Filter Baskets, Razor Dose Trimming Tool, 480 ml Milk Jug, Cleaning Kit, Water Filter | 1/2 lb Bean Hopper, 67 oz Water Tank | 1680 Watts | 120 Volts |
| Breville BES876DBL Barista Exp | 54mm portafilter, milk jug, filter baskets, cleaning tablets | 250g bean hopper, 2L water tank | — | — |
| Breville BES876BSS Barista Exp | 54mm portafilter, cleaning tablets, milk jug | 250g bean hopper, 2L water tank | — | — |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Breville BES870BTR Barista Express Espresso Machine, Black Truffle
This model stands out for its all-in-one design, combining a built-in conical burr grinder with precise temperature control and a manual microfoam wand, making it ideal for those who want to craft a range of espresso-based drinks at home. Compared with the Breville BES880BSS Barista Touch, it lacks the touchscreen but offers more manual control and accessories, which appeals to users who enjoy hands-on brewing. The tradeoff is that it requires more skill to operate effectively and has a higher power draw, which might impact energy bills. Its compact water tank may require frequent refills during busy mornings, but the overall control and included tools make it a flexible choice for enthusiasts.
Pros:- Built-in grinder with adjustable grind size for freshness
- Precise temperature control for optimal extraction
- Manual microfoam wand allows latte art
Cons:- Relatively high power consumption
- Limited capacity water tank needs frequent refilling
Best for: Dedicated home baristas who value control and customization and don’t mind manual operation
Not ideal for: Casual users seeking a simple, quick coffee fix without learning brewing techniques
- Capacity:1/2 lb Bean Hopper
- Water Tank:67 oz
- Power:1600 Watts
- Voltage:120 Volts
- Included Accessories:Razor Dose Trimming Tool, Stainless Steel Portafilter, Filter Baskets, Coffee Scoop, Tamper, Milk Jug, Cleaning Tools, Water Filter
- Warranty:1 Year Limited
Our verdict“This pick is best for passionate coffee lovers wanting a comprehensive, customizable espresso experience at home.”
Breville Bambino Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Breville Bambino excels in delivering quick, quality espresso with its ThermoJet rapid heat-up system, making it perfect for busy mornings. Unlike the more feature-rich BES870BTR, it omits a built-in grinder, so users must grind beans separately, which could be a downside for newcomers. Its compact size means it fits easily into small kitchens or apartments, but the lack of detailed water capacity info might be a concern for heavy use. The automatic steam wand simplifies milk texturing, appealing to users who want good results without fuss. Its simplified interface and fast operation make it a practical choice for those who prioritize speed and convenience over extensive customization.
Pros:- Fast heat-up time with ThermoJet technology
- Automatic steam wand for microfoam milk
- Compact design suitable for small spaces
Cons:- Limited details on water tank capacity
- No built-in grinder included
Best for: Home users who want quick, reliable espresso without complex controls or integrated grinding
Not ideal for: Enthusiasts seeking detailed control over grind size and brewing parameters or who want an all-in-one machine
- Power:1560 Watts
- Voltage:110-120 Volts
- Water Tank Capacity:not specified
- Material:Brushed Stainless Steel
- Included Accessories:1 & 2 cup filter baskets, milk jug, portafilter, tamper, cleaning tool, descaling powder
- Warranty:1 Year Limited
Our verdict“This machine is ideal for users wanting fast, straightforward espresso in a small footprint.”
Breville BES876BST Barista Express Impress, Black Stainless Steel
The Breville BES876BST offers advanced features like an integrated conical burr grinder with 25 grind settings and assisted tamping, making it a strong choice for those who want barista-quality espresso with minimal guesswork. Compared to the BES870BTR, it incorporates smart dosing and tamping systems that improve consistency but add complexity, which might be overwhelming for beginners. Its larger size accommodates its high-tech features, and the powerful steam wand delivers excellent microfoam for latte art. However, the setup process can be intimidating, and the higher price tag could deter casual users. Overall, this machine targets serious enthusiasts who seek precision without sacrificing convenience.
Pros:- Integrated grinder with 25 grind settings for control
- Assisted tamping and intelligent dosing for consistency
- Powerful steam wand for microfoam
Cons:- Complex setup may challenge novices
- Relatively large footprint
Best for: Intermediate to advanced home baristas who want consistent, professionally styled espresso
Not ideal for: Beginners or those with limited space looking for a simple, straightforward machine
- Capacity:250g bean hopper, 2L water tank
- Grind Settings:25
- Portafilter Size:54mm
- Included Accessories:Milk jug, filter baskets, water filter holder, trimming tool, cleaning tablets
Our verdict“This model suits dedicated coffee hobbyists willing to invest in precision and automation for perfect results.”
Breville BES870BSXL Barista Express Espresso Machine, Black Sesame
The Breville BES870BSXL provides a full-featured experience with its built-in conical burr grinder, digital PID temperature control, and manual steam wand, making it suitable for those who want control over every shot. Compared to the BES876BST, it emphasizes manual operation and temperature precision, which appeals to experienced users but can pose a learning curve for beginners. Its larger water tank allows for more brewing without refilling, though it still requires attention to power consumption and setup complexity. This choice makes sense for those who prioritize freshly ground beans and detailed brewing adjustments over simplicity.
Pros:- Built-in conical burr grinder for fresh grounds
- Precise digital PID temperature control
- Steam wand capable of microfoam for latte art
Cons:- High power consumption
- Potentially complex for newcomers
Best for: Home baristas who want to customize every shot and enjoy freshly ground coffee
Not ideal for: Beginners or users seeking a plug-and-play experience with minimal setup
- Capacity:1/2 lb Bean Hopper, 67 oz Water Tank
- Power:1600 Watts
- Voltage:120 Volts
- Included Accessories:Stainless steel portafilter, filter baskets, tamper, milk jug, cleaning tools
Our verdict“Ideal for experienced users focused on control and freshness over ease of use.”
Breville BES881BSS Barista Touch Impress, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Breville BES881BSS combines advanced automation with user-friendly features, featuring a touchscreen interface, auto steam wand, and preset drinks, making it perfect for those who want café-quality beverages with minimal effort. It includes a built-in grinder from Baratza with 30 grind settings, which enhances consistency compared to machines without integrated grinding. Compared to the BES876BST, its touchscreen simplifies operation but comes with a higher price tag and more frequent maintenance needs. This model is best suited for tech-savvy users who appreciate convenience and versatility, including options like cold brew and alternative milk settings.
Pros:- Intuitive touchscreen with customizable presets
- Fast 3-second heat-up with ThermoJet
- Versatile with cold brew and alternative milk options
Cons:- Complex setup can be overwhelming
- Higher price point
Best for: Home baristas seeking a versatile, high-tech machine with minimal manual intervention
Not ideal for: Traditionalists or those on a tight budget who prefer manual controls and simpler machines
- Material:Brushed Stainless Steel
- Heating System:ThermoJet
- Grinder:Baratza European conical burrs, 30 grind settings
- Tamping:Assisted 22 lb tamping
- Touchscreen:Yes
- Preset Drinks:8 customizable presets
Our verdict“This machine is best for tech-savvy users desiring a quick, versatile, and automated espresso experience.”
Breville BES880BSS Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Breville BES880BSS Barista Touch stands out for its seamless touchscreen interface and automatic microfoam milk texturing, making it ideal for those who want professional results without extensive barista skills. Compared to the Barista Express, it offers a faster heat-up time thanks to ThermoJet and more intuitive operation, though it comes at a higher price and limited voltage compatibility. This machine is perfect for users willing to invest in convenience and modern features, but beginners might face a learning curve with the customizable options. Its automatic milk texturing and quick heat-up make it easier to produce café-quality drinks, though the cost may be a barrier for casual users.
Pros:- Automatic microfoam milk texturing for barista-quality drinks
- Fast heat-up time with ThermoJet system
- Touchscreen interface for intuitive operation
- Customizable coffee and milk settings
Cons:- High price point may deter casual buyers
- Limited to 110-120V power supply, restricting regional use
- May require some learning curve for new users
Best for: Tech-savvy coffee enthusiasts who prioritize ease of use and quick results
Not ideal for: Budget-conscious buyers or those in regions with 110V only, due to its high price and voltage limitations
- Power:1680 Watts
- Voltage:110-120V
- Water Tank Capacity:67 oz
- Bean Hopper Capacity:0.5 lbs
- Included Accessories:Stainless Steel Portafilter, Water Filter, Milk Jug, Cleaning Kit
- Warranty:2 Years
Our verdict“This pick makes the most sense for tech-savvy users seeking a fast, customizable espresso experience at home.”
Breville BES870XL Barista Express Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Breville BES870XL Barista Express offers a solid entry point for those looking to learn espresso making with a built-in conical burr grinder and manual controls. It compares favorably to the Barista Pro by providing a more straightforward interface, but it requires a bit more effort to master due to its manual dosing and steaming process. Its size and complexity might be overwhelming for small kitchens or complete beginners, but it rewards those willing to learn with fresh grounds and precise temperature control. While it’s more affordable than high-end models, its learning curve and bulkier footprint are important considerations.
Pros:- Built-in conical burr grinder for fresh grounds
- Precise temperature control with PID
- Steam wand for microfoam and latte art
- Adjustable grind size and dose
Cons:- Relatively high price for entry-level machine
- Requires some learning to optimize use
- Bulkier size may not suit tight spaces
Best for: Beginner home baristas eager to develop skills and control over their espresso
Not ideal for: Small kitchens or users seeking a fully automated, plug-and-play experience
- Capacity:1/2 lb Bean Hopper
- Water Tank:67 oz
- Power:1600 Watts
- Voltage:120 Volts
- Included Accessories:Razor Dose Trimming Tool, Stainless Steel Portafilter, Filter Baskets, Coffee Scoop, Tamper, Milk Jug, Cleaning Tools, Water Filter
- Temperature Control:PID
Our verdict“Ideal for beginners ready to invest time in mastering espresso with control over the process.”
Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Breville Barista Pro is designed for those who want professional-level espresso quickly, thanks to its integrated conical burr grinder and fast ThermoJet heating system. It surpasses the Barista Express with a more advanced LCD interface and faster heat-up, making it suitable for users who value speed and control. However, its complexity can overwhelm complete novices, and its higher price makes it less accessible for casual users. The precise temperature control and built-in grinder provide a seamless experience for those who want café-quality results with less fuss, but the learning curve and cost are significant factors for less experienced buyers.
Pros:- Fast heat-up with ThermoJet system
- Precise temperature control with digital PID
- Built-in grinder with dose control
- Manual microfoam wand for latte art
Cons:- Complex for complete beginners
- Higher price point
- Limited detailed specifications on weight
Best for: Intermediate home baristas who prioritize speed and precision
Not ideal for: Beginners or those on a tight budget seeking simple operation
- Capacity:1/2 lb Bean Hopper, 67 oz Water Tank
- Power:1680 Watts
- Voltage:120 Volts
- Included Accessories:Single & Dual Wall Filter Baskets, Razor Dose Trimming Tool, 480 ml Milk Jug, Cleaning Kit, Water Filter
- Heating System:ThermoJet
- Temperature Regulation:Digital PID
Our verdict“Best for those with some experience seeking quick, high-quality espresso with minimal fuss.”
Breville BES876DBL Barista Express Impress, Damson Blue
The Breville BES876DBL Barista Express Impress combines professional features with user-friendly automation, featuring a conical burr grinder with 25 settings, assisted tamping, and precise temperature control. It excels compared to simpler models like the Barista Express by adding assisted tamping and auto dosing, making consistent espresso easier to achieve. This model suits dedicated enthusiasts who want high-quality results without extensive barista skills, but its setup and higher price may challenge beginners or those with limited space. The auto tamping and dosing reduce variability, yet some users report the setup can be complex and the capacity somewhat limited for larger volumes.
Pros:- Professional-level espresso with integrated grinder
- Assisted tamping for consistent pressure
- Precise temperature control with PID
- Includes accessories like milk jug and cleaning tablets
Cons:- Complex setup for beginners
- Relatively high price
- Limited capacity for larger volumes
Best for: Experienced home baristas seeking professional consistency with less manual effort
Not ideal for: Novices or small kitchens due to setup complexity and limited volume capacity
- Capacity:250g bean hopper, 2L water tank
- Grind Settings:25
- Included Accessories:54mm portafilter, milk jug, filter baskets, cleaning tablets
- Temperature Control:Adjustable
- Auto Dosing:Yes
- Tamping System:Assisted with 10kg pressure
- Heating System:ThermoCoil with PID
Our verdict“Designed for serious enthusiasts who want consistent, high-quality espresso with automated features.”
Breville BES876BSS Barista Express Impress, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Breville Barista Express Impress offers a balanced mix of professional features and user-friendly operation, making it suitable for both newcomers and more experienced coffee lovers. Its built-in grinder with 25 settings and intelligent dosing automate key steps, while the manual microfoam wand allows for latte art. It compares favorably to the BES876DBL by providing a straightforward interface, but some users find the setup process challenging and note that the grinder can be noisy. Its size may also be a concern for small kitchens, though its versatility and automatic features make it a strong all-round choice for home enthusiasts.
Pros:- Easy-to-use with built-in grinder and intelligent dosing
- Manual microfoam wand for latte art
- Good balance of automation and control
- Includes accessories like cleaning tablets
Cons:- Complex setup for first-time users
- Noisy grinder can be disruptive
- Size may be large for small kitchens
Best for: Home baristas who want professional features without complex manual steps
Not ideal for: Complete beginners seeking a fully automatic machine or small kitchens with limited space
- Capacity:250g bean hopper, 2L water tank
- Grind Settings:25
- Included Accessories:54mm portafilter, cleaning tablets, milk jug
- Heating System:ThermoCoil with PID
Our verdict“A versatile choice for home users who want professional features with approachable operation.”
How We Picked
These products were evaluated based on performance, usability, build quality, and value. We prioritized models that offer consistent espresso extraction, intuitive controls, and durability. Ease of maintenance and the versatility of features also played a role, especially for users with varying experience levels. The ranking reflects a balance between price and features, aiming to recommend options for different types of buyers—from beginners to espresso connoisseurs.Factors to Consider When Choosing Breville
When selecting a Breville machine, consider several factors that impact your daily use and long-term satisfaction. Understanding these can help prevent common pitfalls, such as overspending on features you don’t need or choosing a machine that’s too complex for your skill level. The right choice matches your coffee habits, space, and budget while offering room for growth if you want to experiment more with espresso making.Performance and Coffee Quality
Look for models with consistent extraction and good temperature control. Machines with high-pressure pumps and quality boilers tend to produce better espresso. While some machines excel at manual control, others automate certain steps—consider which approach matches your skill and desire for involvement. Remember, even the best machine won’t compensate for poor coffee beans or improper grinding if you’re not attentive to those details.
Ease of Use and Automation
If you prefer a straightforward experience, opt for models with intuitive controls and pre-programmed settings. Conversely, more advanced users may appreciate manual options and customization. Be mindful that overly complex interfaces can be frustrating for beginners, so balance your comfort level with the features offered. Automated milk frothing and programmable shots can save time but often come at a higher price.
Build Quality and Materials
Stainless steel construction generally offers better durability and a premium look, though it may increase the cost. Plastic components might save money but can wear out faster. Consider your kitchen environment—if you plan to use the machine daily, investing in a well-built model can prevent frequent repairs or replacements. Also, check for good sealing and easy access for cleaning.
Size and Kitchen Fit
Breville machines vary in footprint, so measure your available space carefully. Compact models suit smaller kitchens or offices, while larger units often include more features and higher capacities. Think about storage for accessories like tamps, cups, and cleaning supplies—some models include drawers or compartments for convenience. A machine that fits well into your space will encourage regular use.
Price and Long-term Value
Higher price tags generally reflect more features, better materials, and improved performance. However, it’s worth considering whether you’ll utilize all the functionalities of a premium model. For casual users, a mid-range machine might deliver the best bang for your buck. On the other hand, serious enthusiasts may find that investing in a more expensive, feature-rich machine pays off in espresso quality and durability over time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a professional barista-level machine to make good espresso at home?
Not necessarily. Many Breville models are designed for home use and can produce excellent espresso with proper technique. The key is choosing a machine with the right features for your skill level and learning how to grind, dose, and tamp correctly. Entry-level models like the Barista Express are capable of high-quality results once you get the hang of the process, while more advanced machines offer automation to simplify the task.
Is a touchscreen espresso machine worth the extra cost?
Touchscreen models like the Barista Touch Impress provide greater convenience and customization, which can enhance your brewing experience. They often include preset programs, temperature controls, and easy adjustments. However, they tend to be more expensive and may be more complex to repair if something breaks. If you value ease of use and modern features, a touchscreen machine can be a worthwhile investment, but traditional models still deliver excellent results without the extra cost.
How important is boiler size for espresso quality?
A larger boiler generally maintains temperature more consistently, leading to better espresso extraction and steam performance. For daily use or multiple drinks, a bigger boiler can improve efficiency and reduce wait times. Smaller boilers are lighter and more compact but may struggle with temperature stability, especially during continuous use. Consider your volume needs and available space when evaluating boiler size.
Can I get good milk froth with a manual steam wand?
Yes, a manual steam wand offers greater control over milk texture and temperature, which many baristas prefer. It requires some practice to master the technique, but it can produce richer, creamier froth. Automatic frothing features are more convenient but may not deliver the same level of precision. If you enjoy experimenting and learning the craft, a manual wand can be a rewarding feature, but for quick, consistent results, automatic options are more suitable.
Are more expensive Breville models worth the extra money?
Higher-end models typically include advanced features like touchscreen controls, larger boilers, and more precise temperature management. These can improve the quality of your espresso and make the process more straightforward. However, if you only brew occasionally or are new to espresso making, a mid-range machine may provide excellent results without the added cost. Consider your frequency of use and willingness to learn when evaluating whether the investment is justified.
Conclusion
For those seeking the best overall experience, the Breville BES870BTR Barista Express offers a balanced combination of performance, features, and price. Budget-conscious buyers or beginners will find the Bambino Espresso Machine easier to operate and more affordable. For espresso enthusiasts craving advanced customization, the Barista Touch Impress provides touchscreen controls and automation, though at a premium. If space is limited, the compact models deliver quality espresso without taking up too much room. Ultimately, your choice depends on your skill level, budget, and how involved you want to be in the brewing process.
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