Finding the right espresso machine as a beginner can be overwhelming, especially with options from Breville, a brand known for quality yet complex features. The Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro stands out as the best overall choice, offering a balance of advanced features and user-friendliness. The Breville Bambino Plus is ideal for those seeking simplicity without sacrificing quality, while the Breville Barista Express Impress provides a more comprehensive experience for learners ready to step up. Buyers often face tradeoffs between affordability, ease of use, and versatility—this guide helps clarify those choices. Continue reading for a detailed breakdown of each model and how they compare based on real needs.
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Key Takeaways
- The top picks are distinguished by their balance of ease of use and brewing quality, making them suitable for beginners without sacrificing espresso flavor.
- Models with integrated grinders like the Barista Express series offer convenience but can add complexity and cost, which may overwhelm new users.
- Simpler machines like the Bambino Plus excel in quick setup and minimal learning curve, ideal for casual drinkers or those new to home espresso.
- Higher-tier models like the Barista Touch provide advanced features that can grow with a beginner’s skills but come at a higher price.
- The best value options tend to be slightly older or refurbished models like the Barista Express, which still deliver quality but at a more accessible price point.
| Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best Overall for Serious Home Baristas | Water Tank Capacity: 67 oz | Bean Hopper Capacity: 1/2 lb | Power: 1680 Watts | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best Compact for Small Kitchens and Quick Results | Water Pressure: Adjustable pre-infusion | Milk Texturing: Automatic steam wand | Power: 1560 Watts | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville Barista Express Impress Espresso Machine (Certified Remanufactured) |  | Best for Intermediate Home Baristas Seeking Consistency | Portafilter Size: 54mm | Grind Settings: 25 | Dosing System: Auto with correction | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES840XL Infuser Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for Precision Control and Specialty Coffee Enthusiasts | Power: 1650 Watts | Water Tank Capacity: 61 oz | Included Accessories: Filters, cleaning disc & tablets | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES880BSS Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for Automated Convenience with Customization | Power: 1680 Watts | Water Tank Capacity: 67 oz | Bean Hopper Capacity: 0.5 lb | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville Bambino Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for Small Spaces and Quick Results | Power: 1560 Watts | Voltage: 110 to 120 Volts | Brew Size Options: 1 or 2 Cups | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES876BSS Barista Express Impress, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for Beginners Who Want Barista-Level Control | 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 Serious Beginners Wanting All-in-One Control | Capacity: 1/2 lb Bean Hopper | Water Tank: 67 oz | Power: 1600 Watts | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES870XL Barista Express Espresso Machine (Renewed) |  | Best for Budget-Conscious Beginners Who Want Quality | Pump Pressure: 15 Bar | Power: 1600W | Water Tank Capacity: 2 liters | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES881BSS Barista Touch Impress Espresso Machine |  | Best for Tech-Savvy Beginners Wanting Customization | Material: Brushed Stainless Steel | Milk Frothing: Auto steam wand | Cold Brew Function: Yes | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| breville espresso machines for beginners top pick | Power | Included Accessories |
|---|---|---|
| Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro | 1680 Watts | Milk Jug, Cleaning Kit, Water Filter, Dose Trimming Tool |
| Breville Bambino Plus Espresso | 1560 Watts | — |
| Breville Barista Express Impre | — | — |
| Breville BES840XL Infuser Espr | 1650 Watts | Filters, cleaning disc & tablets |
| Breville BES880BSS Barista Tou | 1680 Watts | Portafilter, cleaning kit, water filter |
| Breville Bambino Espresso Mach | 1560 Watts | Milk Jug, Portafilter, Tamper, Steam Wand Tip Cleaning Tool, Descaling Powder |
| Breville BES876BSS Barista Exp | — | 54mm stainless steel portafilter, 480ml milk jug, filter baskets, water filter holder, trimming tool, cleaning tablets |
| Breville BES870XL Barista Expr | 1600 Watts | — |
| Breville BES870XL Barista Expr | 1600W | — |
| Breville BES881BSS Barista Tou | — | — |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Breville Barista Pro stands out for its fast ThermoJet heating system that heats up in just a few seconds, making it ideal for those who want quick access to high-quality espresso. Compared to the Bambino Plus, this machine offers more precise temperature control and a larger water capacity, which benefits users planning to brew multiple drinks in a row. However, its complexity and higher price make it less suitable for complete beginners who might prefer simpler models. Its intuitive LCD interface and included accessories add value, but the learning curve can be steep for new users.
Pros:- Fast heat-up time with ThermoJet system for quick brewing
- Precise temperature control for consistent extraction
- Intuitive LCD interface simplifies operation
- Includes accessories like water filter and cleaning kit
Cons:- Price can be a barrier for casual users
- Lack of detailed weight information may affect space planning
- Complex features might overwhelm first-time users
Best for: Home baristas who want a semi-professional experience and are comfortable with learning more advanced features
Not ideal for: Absolute beginners looking for a straightforward, plug-and-play machine without extensive customization
- Water Tank Capacity:67 oz
- Bean Hopper Capacity:1/2 lb
- Power:1680 Watts
- Voltage:120 Volts
- Included Accessories:Milk Jug, Cleaning Kit, Water Filter, Dose Trimming Tool
- Warranty:2 Years
Our verdict“This machine is best suited for dedicated coffee enthusiasts ready to invest in a versatile, high-performance espresso setup.”
Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Bambino Plus is tailored for those with limited space who still want café-quality espresso. Its compact width of just 7.7 inches makes it easy to slide into tight kitchens, and the automatic milk texturing simplifies creating microfoam drinks. While it heats up rapidly with the ThermoJet system, it offers only 1-2 cup servings at a time, which might be limiting for households with multiple coffee drinkers. Unlike the Barista Pro, it lacks extensive customization options, favoring ease over advanced control, making it ideal for beginners or small households.
Pros:- Very compact size fits small kitchens
- Fast heat-up with ThermoJet technology
- Automatic milk texturing for consistently creamy microfoam
- Simple controls ideal for beginners
Cons:- Limited to 1-2 cups at a time, not suitable for larger households
- Price is high relative to its basic size and features
- No detailed customization options for advanced users
Best for: Small kitchen owners or occasional coffee drinkers who want quick, quality espresso without a large footprint
Not ideal for: Coffee enthusiasts who want extensive control or plan to brew large quantities frequently
- Water Pressure:Adjustable pre-infusion
- Milk Texturing:Automatic steam wand
- Power:1560 Watts
- Voltage:110-120 Volts
- Width:7.7 inches
- Warranty:2 Years
Our verdict“This pick makes the most sense for small-space dwellers who prioritize convenience and speed over extensive manual control.”
Breville Barista Express Impress Espresso Machine (Certified Remanufactured)
The Barista Express Impress offers professional-style dosing and tamping, which elevates home espresso making beyond basic setups like the Bambino Plus. Its intelligent dosing and assisted tamping help produce consistent results, making it ideal for those who want café-quality drinks but aren’t yet experts. The remanufactured status can be appealing for budget-conscious buyers, but it may come with limited warranty and potential size concerns for small kitchens. Its built-in grinder and precise temperature control make it a step up in control, though setup can be more involved for first-timers.
Pros:- Professional-style dosing and tamping for consistent results
- Integrated conical burr grinder with multiple grind settings
- Precise temperature and pressure control for high-quality extraction
- Remanufactured with quality assurance
Cons:- Setup may be complex for newcomers
- Limited warranty due to remanufactured status
- Size might be large for small kitchens
Best for: Intermediate home baristas who want consistent results and are comfortable with some machine setup
Not ideal for: Absolute beginners who prefer simple, fully automatic machines or have limited space
- Portafilter Size:54mm
- Grind Settings:25
- Dosing System:Auto with correction
- Tamp Force:22 lbs
- Bean Dose:18g
- Size:Large
Our verdict“This machine is best for those ready to elevate their home brewing with reliable precision and professional features.”
Breville BES840XL Infuser Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Infuser is designed for users who value precise temperature regulation with its digital PID system, making it an appealing choice over simpler models like the Bambino Plus. It provides volumetric and shot control, along with microfoam milk texturing, catering to those who want to fine-tune every shot. Its accessories, including a water filter and cleaning tools, add convenience. However, its higher power consumption and regional voltage limitations may pose challenges. This machine suits those who want more control without the complexity of commercial machines.
Pros:- Digital PID provides accurate temperature management
- Microfoam milk texturing for latte art
- Includes accessories and cleaning supplies
- Volumetric and manual override options
Cons:- High power consumption may increase energy use
- Limited voltage compatibility in some regions
- Price is higher than entry-level models
Best for: Coffee lovers who appreciate precision and are interested in third-wave specialty brewing
Not ideal for: Casual users seeking straightforward operation or those with limited kitchen space
- Power:1650 Watts
- Water Tank Capacity:61 oz
- Included Accessories:Filters, cleaning disc & tablets
- Settings:Single/double shot, volumetric
- Voltage:110-120 Volts
Our verdict“This model is ideal for enthusiasts wanting detailed control over extraction and milk texturing at home.”
Breville BES880BSS Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Barista Touch combines automatic espresso and milk texturing with a user-friendly touchscreen interface, making it suitable for those who want personalized drinks without manual effort. Its quick heat-up with ThermoJet and included accessories appeal to busy households. Compared to the Barista Pro, it offers more automation, but the complex features may be overwhelming for complete beginners. It’s perfect for users who value ease of use but still want barista-quality results.
Pros:- Touchscreen interface simplifies customization
- Automatic microfoam milk texturing for latte art
- Fast heat-up with ThermoJet system
- Includes free coffee beans and accessories
Cons:- High price point for an automatic machine
- Features can be overwhelming for beginners
- Requires regular cleaning and maintenance
Best for: Busy home users seeking automated, customizable drinks with minimal fuss
Not ideal for: Coffee purists or those seeking full manual control and learning experience
- Power:1680 Watts
- Water Tank Capacity:67 oz
- Bean Hopper Capacity:0.5 lb
- Included Accessories:Portafilter, cleaning kit, water filter
- Warranty:2 Years
Our verdict“This pick is perfect for those who want a quick, consistent, and customizable coffee experience with minimal manual effort.”
Breville Bambino Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Breville Bambino stands out for its rapid heat-up thanks to the ThermoJet system, making it ideal for those who want café-quality espresso in minutes without waiting. Its automatic steam wand simplifies microfoam milk preparation, but it lacks a built-in grinder, which means you’ll need to buy grounds separately. Compared to larger models like the BES870XL, the Bambino’s compact size is perfect for small kitchens, yet it sacrifices some control and customization. It’s best suited for beginners who prioritize speed and simplicity but don’t mind some learning curve for perfect shots. The absence of a grinder means an extra step in prep, and it’s less versatile for those wanting to experiment with different beans or grind settings.Pros:- Quick heat-up with ThermoJet system
- Automatic steam wand for microfoam milk
- Compact, space-saving design
- Delivers café-quality espresso at home
Cons:- Limited to small kitchen spaces
- Requires some practice for perfect shots
- No built-in grinder
Best for: New home baristas with limited space who want quick, quality espresso without fuss
Not ideal for: Coffee enthusiasts seeking extensive control or built-in grinding capabilities
- Power:1560 Watts
- Voltage:110 to 120 Volts
- Brew Size Options:1 or 2 Cups
- Included Accessories:Milk Jug, Portafilter, Tamper, Steam Wand Tip Cleaning Tool, Descaling Powder
- Heating System:ThermoJet
- Material:Brushed Stainless Steel
Our verdict“This pick makes the most sense for those prioritizing speed and simplicity in a small kitchen setting.”
Breville BES876BSS Barista Express Impress, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Barista Express Impress offers a compelling balance of automation and manual control, making it suitable for those wanting to develop their barista skills without sacrificing convenience. Its built-in conical burr grinder and intelligent dosing simplify the process, unlike the Bambino which lacks grinding. This model shines for users who want to learn the craft but still prefer a machine that guides them along the way. However, its larger footprint and more complex features can be overwhelming for absolute beginners. If you’re aiming for consistent, high-quality drinks with room to grow, this machine provides a clear upgrade from basic models, but it demands some patience to master all its features.Pros:- Built-in grinder with multiple settings
- Easy to use for beginners and experienced users
- Manual microfoam wand for latte art
- Consistent dosing and tamping
Cons:- Can be complex for complete newcomers
- Size may be large for small kitchens
- Higher price point
Best for: Beginners eager to learn espresso making with some guidance and room to refine skills
Not ideal for: Casual coffee drinkers or those with limited kitchen space who want a simple setup
- 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
Our verdict“Ideal for those who want a machine that supports learning and skill development without sacrificing quality.”
Breville BES870XL Barista Express Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The BES870XL is a classic choice for those wanting to go from beans to espresso in under a minute, thanks to its built-in conical burr grinder and precise temperature controls. It offers more control than the Bambino, but its size can be a drawback for smaller counters. Compared with the newer BES880BSS, it’s slightly less feature-rich, lacking some of the latest automation. This makes it suitable for beginners willing to learn manual techniques but who do not want to get overwhelmed. The setup can be complex, and the weight might require a dedicated space, but it delivers consistent, café-quality results once mastered.Pros:- Built-in conical burr grinder
- Precise temperature control
- Powerful steam wand for microfoam
- User-friendly grind size dial
Cons:- Relatively large and heavy
- Complex initial setup
- Higher price compared to basic models
Best for: Beginners who want a comprehensive machine with built-in grinding and temperature control
Not ideal for: Very limited spaces or absolute beginners who prefer plug-and-play simplicity
- Capacity:1/2 lb Bean Hopper
- Water Tank:67 oz
- Power:1600 Watts
- Included:Razor Dose Trimming Tool, 54mm Stainless Steel Portafilter, Milk Jug, Cleaning Tools
Our verdict“Best suited for beginners ready to invest in a versatile machine that grows with their skills.”
Breville BES870XL Barista Express Espresso Machine (Renewed)
The Renewed BES870XL offers many of the original features like a 15-bar Italian pump and built-in conical burr grinder, making it a smart choice for budget-conscious buyers. Its automatic temperature adjustment ensures decent extraction, similar to the new BES870XL, but being renewed can introduce uncertainties around warranty and long-term durability. Compared with the BES876BSS, it may lack some modern updates and quietness, yet it remains a dependable entry point. This machine is better suited for those willing to accept some uncertainty in exchange for a more affordable price, particularly if they’re just starting out and want a proven platform.Pros:- High-quality 15-bar Italian pump
- Built-in conical burr grinder
- Removable water tank
- Automatic temperature adjustment
Cons:- Limited warranty due to renewal status
- Potentially noisier operation
- May require more maintenance
Best for: Beginners who want a quality espresso machine at a lower price point but are okay with potential renewal uncertainties
Not ideal for: Users seeking the latest features or long-term warranty assurance
- Pump Pressure:15 Bar
- Power:1600W
- Water Tank Capacity:2 liters
- Construction Material:Brushed Stainless Steel
Our verdict“A solid choice for beginners on a budget who prioritize established performance over latest features.”
Breville BES881BSS Barista Touch Impress Espresso Machine
The BES881BSS Barista Touch Impress elevates home espresso making with its touchscreen, auto steam wand, and customizable presets, making it ideal for those who want to fine-tune every aspect of their coffee. It’s a step beyond the basic models like the Bambino or the BES870XL, offering assisted tamping and a cold brew option for variety. The advanced features come with a higher price tag and a learning curve, but the intuitive interface simplifies complex tasks. This machine makes sense for tech-savvy beginners wanting a blend of automation and personalization, though it might be overkill for those who prefer straightforward operation or are new to espresso.Pros:- Touchscreen interface for easy control
- Auto steam wand with adjustable settings
- Customizable coffee and milk profiles
- Quick heat-up with ThermoJet
Cons:- High price point
- Features may require learning for full use
- Limited detailed review info available
Best for: Tech-oriented beginners looking for a versatile, customizable machine with modern features
Not ideal for: Casual users or those with limited technical comfort who prefer simple, manual devices
- Material:Brushed Stainless Steel
- Milk Frothing:Auto steam wand
- Cold Brew Function:Yes
- Heater System:ThermoJet
- Touchscreen:Yes
- Preset Drinks:8, customizable
Our verdict“Best suited for tech-savvy beginners eager to explore advanced, personalized coffee-making at home.”
How We Picked
Assessing these espresso machines involved examining key factors that matter most to beginners: ease of use, build quality, integrated features, and value for money. Each model was evaluated on how intuitive it is for new users, how much control they offer without overwhelming, and their ability to produce consistent, quality espresso. We also considered customer feedback and reliability ratings to ensure durability and satisfaction. Our ranking emphasizes models that strike a practical balance between entry-level affordability and the potential for skill development, avoiding overly complex or underperforming options.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Breville Espresso Machines For Beginners Top Picks
Choosing the right Breville espresso machine as a beginner involves understanding several key factors. Beyond the initial cost, consider how user-friendly the machine is and whether it aligns with your espresso goals. Some machines come with built-in grinders, which simplify setup but can increase complexity and price. Others offer more manual control, perfect for those eager to learn but potentially intimidating at first. Durability and maintenance are also important, especially if you’re investing in a machine you’ll use frequently. Keep these factors in mind to find a model that grows with your skills and enjoyment.Ease of Use and Learning Curve
For beginners, a machine that offers straightforward operation is essential. Look for models with intuitive interfaces, automatic milk frothing, and preset functions. Machines with too many manual controls can be frustrating early on, so balance your desire for control with simplicity. Features like one-touch brewing or pre-programmed options help reduce learning time and improve confidence in your espresso skills.
Built-in Grinder or Separate Accessory
Some Breville models include integrated grinders, which save space and reduce setup time, but can also increase the initial investment and complexity. If you’re new and want minimal fuss, a machine with a built-in grinder like the Barista Express series simplifies the process. Conversely, if you prefer learning manual control over grind size and tamping, a machine without a grinder allows for more customization but requires additional equipment and learning effort.
Size and Counter Space
Espresso machines vary significantly in size. For small kitchens or limited counter space, compact models like the Bambino Plus make more sense, offering quick setup without sacrificing quality. Larger, more feature-rich machines like the Barista Touch demand more room but can deliver a more versatile experience. Measure your space carefully before choosing to avoid clutter or inconvenience.
Maintenance and Durability
Beginners should look for machines with straightforward cleaning routines and good build quality. Machines with removable parts like drip trays and water filters simplify maintenance. Also, consider the availability of replacement parts and customer support—these factors impact long-term satisfaction and machine lifespan. Investing in a slightly more durable model can prevent headaches down the road.
Budget and Value
Entry-level Breville espresso machines span a range of prices. While it might be tempting to choose the cheapest option, a slightly higher investment often yields better durability and features that facilitate learning. Refurbished or certified pre-owned models can provide excellent value, especially if they include warranties. Focus on finding a machine that offers a good balance between cost and the features needed to develop your skills.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it better to buy a machine with a built-in grinder for beginners?
For most beginners, a machine with a built-in grinder offers simplicity and convenience, reducing the number of steps needed to prepare espresso. It streamlines workflow and minimizes the chance of grinder-related mistakes, making it easier to get consistent results. However, this can come at a higher price and less control over grind adjustments. If you’re eager to learn manual control or want more flexibility, starting with a separate grinder might be a better choice, though it requires more effort to master.
How important is the steam wand for a beginner espresso machine?
A steam wand allows you to make milk-based drinks like lattes and cappuccinos, which many beginners find appealing. Machines with automatic or semi-automatic milk frothers are easier to operate and reduce learning curves. If you mainly want straight espresso or are not interested in milk drinks initially, a machine without a steam wand can save money and simplify operation. Consider your beverage preferences before choosing based on this feature.
Can a beginner really make good espresso at home with these machines?
Yes, many Breville machines designed for beginners are capable of producing high-quality espresso with proper use. Features like pre-programmed settings, adjustable grind size, and automatic milk frothing help new users achieve consistent results. It’s important to follow tutorials, experiment with settings, and practice tamping to improve your skills. Investing in a machine that offers guidance and ease of use can significantly enhance your chances of making great espresso early on.
Are refurbished or certified pre-owned models a good option for beginners?
Refurbished or certified pre-owned Breville machines can offer substantial savings while still providing reliable performance. These options are often tested and restored to factory standards, making them suitable for beginners looking to enter the hobby without a hefty investment. However, check for warranty coverage and seller credibility to ensure you receive a machine that will last and support your learning process.
What features are worth paying extra for if I want to develop my barista skills?
If you’re interested in honing your barista skills, look for machines with features like precise temperature control, programmable shots, and manual steam wands. A model like the Barista Touch offers advanced controls that help you learn about extraction and milk texturing. While these features may increase the initial cost, they provide greater control and versatility, making them worth the investment for serious beginners eager to grow their espresso expertise.
Conclusion
For newcomers seeking simplicity and reliability, the Breville Bambino Plus is the best choice, thanks to its straightforward operation and compact size. Those aiming for a balanced combination of features and affordability should consider the Breville Barista Express Impress, which offers good control without overwhelming complexity. If you’re prepared to invest in a premium experience that grows with your skills, the Breville Barista Touch provides advanced features and customization. For budget-conscious beginners, certified pre-owned models can deliver quality at a lower price, while dedicated learners will appreciate models with more manual control options. Your ideal pick depends on how much you want to learn and how often you plan to brew espresso at home.
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