Breville stands out as a leading brand in home espresso brewing, offering a range of machines that balance performance, features, and design. The Breville BES880BSS Barista Touch makes a strong case as the best overall choice, thanks to its intuitive touchscreen and consistent results. For those seeking a more budget-friendly option, the Breville Bambino offers solid performance in a compact form. Meanwhile, the Breville Barista Express Impress models excel for users who want more control without the high cost of premium models. As with any espresso machine, tradeoffs include price versus features, ease of use versus customization, and size versus output. Continue reading for the full breakdown to find your best fit.
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Key Takeaways
- The top-ranked Breville models balance ease of use with advanced features, appealing to both beginners and enthusiasts.
- Higher-end options like the Barista Touch provide touchscreen interfaces and programmable settings, but come at a premium price.
- The Breville Bambino offers excellent value for small spaces and entry-level users, though it lacks some customization options.
- Consistency and build quality are hallmarks of the more expensive models, making them worthwhile for daily use.
- Design variations, including color and finish, allow personalization but often influence price and availability.
| Breville BES881BSS Barista Touch Impress, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best Overall with Advanced Features and Customization | Material: Brushed Stainless Steel | Heating System: ThermoJet | Grinder: Baratza European conical burrs, 30 grind settings | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES876BST Barista Express Impress, Black Stainless Steel |  | Best for Precision and Barista-Level Control | Capacity: 250g bean hopper, 2L water tank | Grind Settings: 25 | Portafilter Size: 54mm | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville Bambino Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best Compact for Small Spaces and Simplicity | Power: 1560 Watts | Voltage: 110-120 Volts | Water Tank Capacity: Not specified | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES870BTR Barista Express Espresso Machine, Black Truffle |  | Best for Customization and Professional Results | Capacity: 1/2 lb Bean Hopper | Water Tank: 67 oz | Power: 1600 Watts | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES876BSS Barista Express Impress, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for Beginners and Easy Operation | Capacity: 250g bean hopper | Water Tank: 2L | Grind Settings: 25 | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES870BSXL Barista Express Espresso Machine, Black Sesame |  | Best Overall for Hands-On Control | Capacity: 1/2 lb Bean Hopper, 67 oz Water Tank | Power: 1600 Watts | Voltage: 120 Volts | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BES880BSS Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel |  | Best for Ease of Use with Automated Features | 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 Precise Manual Control and Customization | 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 Fast, Consistent Results with Advanced Features | 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 Touch with Assisted Tamping | Capacity: 250g bean hopper | Water Tank: 2L | Grind Settings: 25 | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville | Included Accessories | Capacity | Power | Voltage |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Breville BES881BSS Barista Tou | — | — | — | — |
| Breville BES876BST Barista Exp | Stainless steel milk jug, filter baskets, water filter holder, trimming tool, cleaning tablets | 250g bean hopper, 2L water tank | — | — |
| Breville Bambino Espresso Mach | 1 cup and 2 cup filter baskets, milk jug, portafilter, tamper, cleaning tool, descaling powder | — | 1560 Watts | 110-120 Volts |
| 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 BES876BSS Barista Exp | 54mm stainless steel portafilter, 480ml milk jug, filter baskets, water filter holder, trimming tool, cleaning tablets | 250g bean hopper | — | — |
| 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 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, 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, cleaning tablets, milk jug | 250g bean hopper | — | — |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Breville BES881BSS Barista Touch Impress, Brushed Stainless Steel
This model stands out for its combination of a user-friendly touchscreen interface and versatile brewing capabilities, making it ideal for home baristas who want café-quality drinks at their fingertips. Compared with the Breville BES876BST Barista Express Impress, the Barista Touch Impress offers a more intuitive experience with customizable presets and a faster heat-up time thanks to its ThermoJet system. However, this convenience comes with a higher price and a more complex setup that might overwhelm beginners. The built-in grinder, auto steam wand, and cold brew function make it a truly all-in-one machine, but require regular cleaning and maintenance to keep it performing at its best.
Pros:- Intuitive touchscreen with customizable presets for ease of use
- Fast 3-second heat-up with ThermoJet technology for quick brewing
- Versatile with cold brew and alternative milk options
Cons:- Complex setup may be overwhelming for new users
- Higher price point compared to basic models
- Requires regular cleaning and maintenance to sustain performance
Best for: Tech-savvy home baristas who value customization and speed without sacrificing quality
Not ideal for: Beginners seeking a simple, straightforward espresso machine with minimal setup
- Material:Brushed Stainless Steel
- Heating System:ThermoJet
- Grinder:Baratza European conical burrs, 30 grind settings
- Touchscreen:Yes
- Preset Drinks:8 customizable presets
- Milk Frothing:Auto MilQ steam wand with alternative milk settings
Our verdict“This pick makes the most sense for experienced home users who want advanced features and a quick, customizable brewing experience.”
Breville BES876BST Barista Express Impress, Black Stainless Steel
The Barista Express Impress emphasizes control with an integrated grinder, smart dosing, and assisted tamping, making it ideal for users who want to fine-tune their espresso without complex programming. Compared with the Bambino Espresso Machine, it offers a more consistent grind and dosing experience, though it’s larger and more demanding in setup. The powerful steam wand supports microfoam creation, perfect for latte art, but the machine’s size and high price may be limiting for casual users or those with limited counter space. Its focus on precision makes it suitable for enthusiasts who want to experiment with brewing variables but might be intimidating for absolute beginners.
Pros:- Integrated grinder with 25 grind settings for precise control
- Assisted tamping and intelligent dosing for consistent espresso
- Powerful steam wand for microfoam and latte art
Cons:- Complex setup may challenge beginners
- Relatively large size requiring ample counter space
- High cost may be prohibitive for casual users
Best for: Intermediate users who want a semi-automatic machine with professional control and consistent results
Not ideal for: Beginners or those with small kitchens, due to its larger footprint and complexity
- 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 machine is best suited for users seeking professional-grade control and consistency in a semi-automatic setup.”
Breville Bambino Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Bambino is designed for those with limited space who still want good espresso, thanks to its rapid ThermoJet heat-up and precise temperature control. It lacks a built-in grinder, meaning users will need to add their own, but its small footprint makes it perfect for small kitchens or apartments. Compared with the Barista Pro or Barista Touch, it sacrifices some advanced features for simplicity and affordability, though it still delivers consistent shots and easy milk texturing with its automatic steam wand. Its minimalistic design and quick start-up make it an appealing choice for beginners or occasional drinkers, but more serious enthusiasts may find it limiting in customization options.
Pros:- Fast heat-up time with ThermoJet technology for quick brewing
- Automatic steam wand simplifies milk texturing
- Compact design fits small or cluttered kitchens
Cons:- No built-in grinder, requiring an additional purchase
- Limited water tank capacity details
- Price point not specified, may be high for casual users
Best for: Beginners or casual home users needing a compact, quick-start espresso machine
Not ideal for: Experienced baristas or those seeking extensive customization and advanced features
- Power:1560 Watts
- Voltage:110-120 Volts
- Water Tank Capacity:Not specified
- Material:Brushed Stainless Steel
- Included Accessories:1 cup and 2 cup filter baskets, milk jug, portafilter, tamper, cleaning tool, descaling powder
Our verdict“This machine makes the most sense for beginners or those with tight space requirements who want quick, reliable espresso.”
Breville BES870BTR Barista Express Espresso Machine, Black Truffle
The Barista Express in Black Truffle combines a built-in grinder, precise temperature control, and a manual microfoam wand, making it suitable for users who want to craft espresso and milk drinks with a personal touch. Compared with the Barista Touch Impress, it offers fewer presets but more manual control, appealing to those who enjoy tweaking their brewing process. Its relatively high power consumption and water tank size mean it’s better for dedicated coffee spaces, and some users find the grinder noisy. Still, the wide range of included accessories and adjustable settings make it a flexible option for passionate home baristas.
Pros:- Built-in grinder with adjustable grind size for fresh coffee
- Precise temperature control for optimal extraction
- Manual microfoam wand supports latte art
Cons:- High power consumption compared to smaller models
- Limited water tank capacity may require frequent refilling
- Price may be high for infrequent users
Best for: Enthusiasts who enjoy customizing their espresso and milk drinks with manual control
Not ideal for: Casual drinkers or those preferring a fully automatic 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
Our verdict“Ideal for passionate users who want to fine-tune their espresso and milk drinks manually for professional-quality results.”
Breville BES876BSS Barista Express Impress, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Barista Express Impress in Brushed Stainless Steel offers a user-friendly experience with a built-in grinder, intelligent dosing, and manual microfoam wand, making it accessible for newcomers while still providing room for skill development. Compared with the BES870BTR, this model emphasizes ease of use, with simplified controls and assisted tamping, but it still maintains the core features for quality espresso. Its larger size and some reports of grinder noise could be drawbacks for small kitchens or sensitive users, but overall it strikes a good balance between accessibility and performance for those just starting out or wanting a reliable semi-automatic machine.
Pros:- Built-in conical burr grinder with 25 adjustable settings
- Easy-to-use intelligent dosing system
- Manual microfoam wand for milk-based drinks
Cons:- Complex setup may challenge complete novices
- Size may be large for small kitchens
- Some users find the grinder noisy
Best for: Home baristas new to espresso who want straightforward operation without sacrificing quality
Not ideal for: Experienced users seeking advanced customization or compact design
- Capacity:250g bean hopper
- Water Tank:2L
- Grind Settings:25
- Included Accessories:54mm stainless steel portafilter, 480ml milk jug, filter baskets, water filter holder, trimming tool, cleaning tablets
Our verdict“Best suited for beginners who want a straightforward, reliable espresso machine with room to grow.”
Breville BES870BSXL Barista Express Espresso Machine, Black Sesame
This model stands out for its integrated conical burr grinder and precise temperature control, making it ideal for those who want a full manual experience. Compared to the Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro, it offers more customization options but can be more complex for beginners. Its manual grind size dial and override features give experienced users control over every shot, though this increases learning curve and setup time. The relatively high power and limited water capacity mean it’s best suited for home baristas who prioritize quality over volume. If you prefer a machine with built-in grinder and manual operation, this pick delivers high-quality espresso, but it may feel overwhelming for casual users.
Pros:- Built-in conical burr grinder for ultimate freshness
- Precise PID temperature control ensures consistent extraction
- Steam wand produces microfoam ideal for latte art
Cons:- High power consumption increases electricity use
- Limited water capacity requires frequent refilling
- Complex setup for beginners can be intimidating
Best for: Dedicated home baristas who enjoy customizing each shot and don’t mind a steeper learning curve
Not ideal for: Casual coffee drinkers or those seeking a quick, fuss-free espresso experience
- 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
- Features:Built-in Grinder, Digital PID Temperature Control, Microfoam Steam Wand, Grind Size Dial
Our verdict“This machine is perfect for dedicated espresso enthusiasts who want full manual control and high-quality results at home.”
Breville BES880BSS Barista Touch Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
This pick makes the most sense for users who want café-quality drinks with minimal effort. Its touchscreen interface and automatic microfoam milk texturing make it easier to produce professional-looking lattes and cappuccinos than the more manual BES870XL. Compared to the Breville BES870XL, it offers a faster, more intuitive experience, but at a significantly higher price point. The automatic milk texturing simplifies the process for beginners, though some may find it less satisfying than manual microfoam control. This machine is ideal for those who value convenience and consistency over complete manual control, but it’s less suited for traditionalists who prefer hands-on barista techniques.
Pros:- Automatic microfoam milk texturing for perfect latte art
- Fast heat-up time with ThermoJet system
- Touchscreen controls for easy operation and customization
Cons:- Higher price compared to manual machines
- Limited to 110-120V power supply, reducing flexibility in some regions
- May require a learning curve for new users unfamiliar with digital interfaces
Best for: Home users who prioritize convenience and quick results without sacrificing quality
Not ideal for: Coffee enthusiasts who prefer manual control and customizing every parameter
- 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 model suits those who want cafe-quality drinks with minimal effort and quick operation at home.”
Breville BES870XL Barista Express Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
Compared to the BES880BSS, the BES870XL offers similar core features like a built-in grinder and PID temperature control but is often chosen for its slightly more accessible price point and widespread availability. Its manual dose and grind size options provide more control for experienced users, though it requires some learning to optimize. The bulkier size might be a concern for smaller kitchens, and its high price isn’t justified for those seeking a plug-and-play experience. This machine makes the most sense for users who want the ability to fine-tune their espresso but are comfortable with some setup and learning—less ideal for absolute beginners.
Pros:- Built-in conical burr grinder for fresh grounds
- Precise temperature control with PID ensures consistent results
- Steam wand for microfoam and latte art
Cons:- Relatively high price for a semi-automatic machine
- Requires some learning curve to master operation
- Size may be too bulky for small kitchens
Best for: Intermediate home baristas seeking a balance of control and quality without excessive automation
Not ideal for: Complete beginners or those seeking a quick, set-and-forget espresso machine
- 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
Our verdict“This machine is suitable for users who want control over their espresso process but are willing to learn the nuances of operation.”
Breville BES878BSS Barista Pro Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Barista Pro shines with its rapid ThermoJet heat-up and intuitive LCD interface, making it ideal for users who want professional results with less waiting. It integrates a high-quality conical burr grinder and dose control, similar to the BES870XL but with more automation and a sleek digital display for easy adjustments. Compared to the BES876BSS, it offers faster operation and more modern features, though it might be too complex for complete novices. The powerful steam wand and fast workflow make it perfect for those who want café-quality drinks quickly, but its higher price and advanced features may be overwhelming for casual users.
Pros:- Rapid heat-up with ThermoJet system for almost instant brewing
- Precise temperature control with digital PID
- Built-in grinder with dose control for maximum flavor
Cons:- Complex interface could intimidate beginners
- Higher price point limits accessibility for casual users
- Lack of detailed specs on weight may complicate portability
Best for: Experienced home baristas and busy coffee lovers who want quick, consistent results with minimal fuss
Not ideal for: Absolute beginners or budget-conscious buyers who prefer simple machines
- 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, Milk Jug, Cleaning Kit, Water Filter
- Heating System:ThermoJet
Our verdict“This machine is suited for those who value speedy, high-quality espresso with technological ease of use, but it’s less fitting for newcomers.</verdict>”
Breville BES876DBL Barista Express Impress, Damson Blue
The BES876DBL offers a level of automation rarely found in semi-automatic machines, with its assisted tamping system and 25 grind settings, making it ideal for users seeking consistency without extensive barista skills. Compared to the BES870XL, it introduces intelligent dosing and tamping, which reduces variability and improves repeatability. Its design and accessories, like the 54mm portafilter and cleaning tablets, appeal to serious coffee lovers who want a more polished experience. However, the setup process can be complex for beginners, and its higher price limits appeal to those committed to high-end espresso crafting. This machine is best for users eager to combine professional features with at-home convenience, but not suited for those seeking simplicity.
Pros:- Integrated grinder with 25 grind settings for precision
- Auto dosing and assisted tamping for consistent results
- Includes high-end accessories like a 54mm portafilter and cleaning tablets
Cons:- Setup can be challenging for novices
- Relatively high price limits accessibility
- Limited capacity for large volume brewing
Best for: Coffee enthusiasts wanting a semi-automatic with professional features like assisted tamping and precise dosing
Not ideal for: Total beginners or those on a tight budget due to its complexity and cost
- Capacity:250g bean hopper
- Water Tank:2L
- Grind Settings:25
- Included Accessories:54mm portafilter, cleaning tablets, milk jug
- Temperature Control:Adjustable brew temperature
- Heating System:ThermoCoil with PID control
Our verdict“This machine suits serious coffee lovers seeking professional-level features in a home machine with automated consistency, but it’s less suitable for beginners.”
How We Picked
These products were evaluated based on performance, ease of use, build quality, feature set, and value for money. Models with better temperature stability, milk frothing quality, and user-friendly interfaces ranked higher, especially for home baristas. We compared these machines against key criteria like maintenance requirements, versatility, and durability, ensuring each pick offers a distinct role. The ranking reflects a balance of these factors, prioritizing models that serve a broad range of users—from beginners to serious coffee lovers—while also considering price and overall usability.Factors to Consider When Choosing Breville
Choosing the right Breville espresso machine depends on your specific needs, space, and budget. Understanding key factors can help you avoid common pitfalls and select a machine that truly fits your lifestyle.Performance and Consistency
Look for machines with stable temperature control and good pressure consistency, which directly impact shot quality. Higher-end models often feature PID temperature control for precision, leading to more consistent results over time. Cheaper models may require more skill and adjustment to achieve good espresso, making them less forgiving for beginners. Prioritize performance if you want reliably good shots without constant tweaking.
Ease of Use
Intuitive controls, clear displays, and automated features like milk frothing make daily use straightforward. Touchscreens and programmable settings reduce manual effort, which benefits users new to espresso. Conversely, more manual machines offer greater customization but demand a learning curve. Consider how much time and effort you’re willing to invest in learning your machine before choosing a more complex model.
Size and Design
Espresso machines vary significantly in footprint. Compact models like the Bambino suit small kitchens or limited counter space, while larger, feature-rich machines may dominate your countertop. Design aesthetic might also influence your choice, especially if you want your espresso setup to match your decor. Be sure to measure your space carefully before making a decision.
Maintenance and Durability
Look for models with accessible parts and straightforward cleaning routines. Machines with durable build quality and good warranty support tend to last longer and require less frequent repairs. Keep in mind that some features, like automatic cleaning cycles, can save time but might add to the initial cost. Avoid overly complex machines if maintenance ease is a priority.
Price and Value
Higher-priced machines typically offer better build quality, more features, and enhanced performance, but may not be necessary for casual users. Conversely, budget models can produce good espresso but often lack advanced features and may need more user effort. Assess your budget against your desired features to find the best value—sometimes paying more upfront reduces long-term frustration.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a more expensive Breville machine worth the extra cost?
Generally, yes. Higher-end Breville models often feature superior build quality, more precise temperature control, and advanced automation, which contribute to better shot quality and ease of use. If you plan to make espresso regularly and want consistent results with less effort, investing in a pricier model can be worthwhile. However, for occasional use or beginners, mid-range options still deliver good performance at a lower cost.
Can I make milk-based drinks with a budget Breville model?
While budget models like the Bambino can produce decent espresso, they may lack the steam wand quality or control needed for barista-style milk drinks. Most entry-level machines have basic frothing capabilities, which require practice to master. If you frequently prepare lattes or cappuccinos, opting for a machine with a more powerful steam wand or automatic milk frothing can save time and improve results.
How important is a PID temperature controller in a Breville machine?
A PID controller maintains precise water temperature, which is key to brewing consistently good espresso. Machines with PID tend to produce more stable shots, especially when used frequently. If you’re serious about coffee quality and want to avoid temperature fluctuations, choosing a model with this feature is advisable—though it may come at a higher price point.
Are manual machines better for experienced baristas?
Manual machines offer greater control over every aspect of brewing, making them suitable for experienced users who want to fine-tune their shots. However, they require more skill, time, and effort to operate effectively. For most home users, semi-automatic or fully automatic machines provide a better balance of control and convenience, regardless of experience level.
What should I consider if I want a Breville machine for small spaces?
In tight spaces, compact models like the Bambino or the Barista Express Mini are ideal choices due to their smaller footprints. These models often have fewer features but still deliver quality espresso. Be sure to check dimensions carefully and consider how much countertop real estate you’re willing to allocate, especially if you plan to include accessories or other appliances nearby.
Conclusion
For most users, the Breville BES880BSS Barista Touch stands out as the best overall choice, combining ease of use with advanced features. Budget-conscious buyers or beginners will appreciate the Breville Bambino for its simplicity and compact size. Serious coffee enthusiasts aiming for precision and customization should consider the Barista Pro or higher-end models. If you want a machine that balances performance and affordability without sacrificing quality, focus on models like the Barista Express Impress. Your ideal pick depends on how much control, space, and investment you’re ready to commit.
